Heat is a storm?

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

When talking about storms, the most common are always mentioned. Snow, rain and wind are the main ingredients for what seems to be the “most popular” types of storms. One ingredient that seems to get over looked at times is a heat storm, better known as a heat wave, and the damage it can cause.

According to Wikipedia, a heat wave is a period of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity. While some definitions vary, a heat wave is usually measured relative to the usual weather in the area and relative to normal temperatures for the season. There are many different ways a heat wave can affect you’re your locally owned SERVPRO may be able to help with a couple heat related issues, like the results of smoke damage to a house that was cause by a wildfire, that was caused by extreme heat in dry conditions. If a heat wave occurs during a drought, which dries out vegetation, it can contribute to bushfires and wildfires.

Heat waves can also cause power outages. Abnormally hot temperatures can cause electricity demand to increase during the peak summertime hours of 4 to 7 p.m. when air conditioners are straining to overcome the heat.

Heat waves can and do cause physical damages to roadways. Long periods of extreme heat can cause them to buckle and melt. It can cause water lines to burst, and power transformers to detonate, causing fires. Heat waves can also damage rail road’s, such as buckling and kinking rails, which can lead to slower traffic, delays, and even cancellations of service when rails are too dangerous to traverse by trains.

More serious and sad issues from heat are the Psychological and Sociological effects and Mortality. In addition to physical stress, excessive heat causes psychological stress, to a degree which affects performance, and is also associated with an increase in violent crime. High temperatures are associated with increased conflict both at the interpersonal level and at the societal level.

Heat waves are the most lethal type of weather phenomenon in the United States. According to Wikipedia, between 1992 and 2001, deaths from excessive heat in the United States numbered 2,190, compared with 880 deaths from floods and 150 from hurricanes. The average annual number of fatalities directly attributed to heat in the United States is about 400. The number of heat fatalities is likely highly underreported due to a lack of reports and misreports. Your SERVPRO is here to help you and our community. No matter the Storm, you can call us at 360-703-3884 and we will help..

Forms of the Storm

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Some storms can be a visual thing of beauty and some storms can leave a person homeless with total loss of possessions. Worst yet, storms can take a persons life. There are many varieties and names for storms: Lighting storm, thunderstorm, blizzard, tornado(strong winds) tropical cyclone, windstorm, Hailstorms, icestorm(heavy freezing rain) and dust storms are probably the most common type storms in the United States.

According to Wikipedia, "a storm is any disturbed state of an environment or in an astronomical body's atmosphere especially affecting its surface, and strongly implying severe weather".

Storms are created when a center of low pressure develops with the system of high pressure surrounding it. This combination of opposing forces can create winds and result in the formation of storm clouds such as cumulonimbus.

Each region has its own type of storms. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we do not get the tornadoes like they do in the Mid-West and in the South. Here, in the PNW we get a wet with rain 230 plus days a year. With this in mind, SERVPRO has strategically placed 1700 plus franchises across the United States. Here in Longview Washington, you have a locally owned SERVPRO that is ready to help. Help you and our community when the time comes.

Winter Storm Warning

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storms can be quite destructive to any size of residential or commercial property here in the Pacific Northwest. When a winter storm hits, it can significantly interrupt if not suspend your business operations. Winter storms can bring freezing rain, ice, snow, high winds, or a combination of these conditions, which can undoubtedly cause thousands of dollars of damage to your property if you not prepared.

~Clear out your gutters.

While it is important to regularly maintain your gutters, it is especially important to clear them out before a big storm. With the rain storm typically comes a downpour of leaves and other debris. If the gutters aren’t cleared out they are likely to clog and limit the water that can drain off of the roof.

~Regularly inspect and repair your roof.

Heavy precipitation can result in erosion and cracking. The real trouble starts when cracking occurs during heavy rains (or when heavy rains hit and expand an existing crack). This crack will let water into your building, leading to leaks, flooding, and mold. Inspecting your roof annually can prevent major damage.

~Maintain and inspect joints and windows.

Flashing, joints, sealant, windows, etc. Anywhere two planes or surfaces come together, there is potential for leaks. And where there are leaks, there can be mold. These leaks can be caused by the wear down of a material over time, shifting of the property or simply from daily use.

~Prevent frozen pipes.

Business owners should be concerned about frozen pipes as the weather turns cold. Insure the pipes in unheated spaces are properly insulated so that the water inside does not expand and burst. You will also need to keep the temperature on your thermostat set to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

~ Clearing storm drains.

Storm drains are in place to move excess water away from buildings, driveways, and walkways.  Although it is the cities job to maintain these, being watchful can protect you from flooding and water damage.

~ Power surges.

During inclement weather a power surge can  damage equipment, such as computers, fax machines, etc. Taking precautions here by unplugging devices till power is restored will help save you time and money.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is always ready to help if your property sustains storm, fire, or water damage. Visit our website www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com or (360)703-3884

Storm Damage Insurance Coverage

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

The rain is no stranger, to the residents of the Pacific Northwest. We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall for the greater part of the year.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important, but there are a few things you need to know about water damage prior to calling SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

~ Insurance policies won't cover every type of water damage.

Challengingly enough, most homeowner’s insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures but, generally, will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in an area where pooling water can affect your home, you may want to invest in an additional policy.

~ Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

~ Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment

Storm water coverage

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

The rain is no stranger to the residents of the Pacific Northwest, especially right now! We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall in 8 of the 12 months.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important and having the understanding of what you are covered, for the water damage, is also very important.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

Insurance policies won't cover all water damage.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures and generally will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water, also known as ground water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in a area where pooling water can affect your home, you will need to contact your insurance agent soon and go over your homeowners policy. We understand budgets, we are all on one, but we highly recommend that you have a local insurance agent with local ties, an office where you can go sit face to face and go over your coverage’s.

Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website https://www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment.

Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

Rain and Your Ins. Policy

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

The rain is no stranger, to the residents of the Pacific Northwest. We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall for the greater part of the year.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important, but there are a few things you need to know about water damage prior to calling SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

Insurance policies won't cover all water damage.

Challengingly enough, most homeowners insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures but, generally, will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in a area where pooling water can affect your home, you may want to invest in an additional policy.

Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website https://www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment.

Heat, the other type of Storm

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

When talking about storms, the most common are always mentioned. Snow, rain and wind are the main ingredients for what seems to be the “most popular” types of storms. One ingredient that seems to get over looked at times is a heat storm, better known as a heat wave, and the damage it can cause.

According to Wikipedia, a heat wave is a period of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity. While some definitions vary, a heat wave is usually measured relative to the usual weather in the area and relative to normal temperatures for the season. There are many different ways a heat wave can affect you’re your locally owned SERVPRO may be able to help with a couple heat related issues, like the results of smoke damage to a house that was cause by a wildfire, that was caused by extreme heat in dry conditions. If a heat wave occurs during a drought, which dries out vegetation, it can contribute to bushfires and wildfires. 

Heat waves can also cause power outages. Abnormally hot temperatures can cause electricity demand to increase during the peak summertime hours of 4 to 7 p.m. when air conditioners are straining to overcome the heat. 

Heat waves can and do cause physical damages to roadways. Long periods of extreme heat can cause them to buckle and melt. It can cause water lines to burst, and power transformers to detonate, causing fires. Heat waves can also damage rail road’s, such as buckling and kinking rails, which can lead to slower traffic, delays, and even cancellations of service when rails are too dangerous to traverse by trains.

More serious and sad issues from heat are the Psychological and Sociological effects and Mortality. In addition to physical stress, excessive heat causes psychological stress, to a degree which affects performance, and is also associated with an increase in violent crime. High temperatures are associated with increased conflict both at the interpersonal level and at the societal level.

Heat waves are the most lethal type of weather phenomenon in the United States. According to Wikipedia, between 1992 and 2001, deaths from excessive heat in the United States numbered 2,190, compared with 880 deaths from floods and 150 from hurricanes. The average annual number of fatalities directly attributed to heat in the United States is about 400. The number of heat fatalities is likely highly underreported due to a lack of reports and misreports. Your SERVPRO is here to help you and our community. No matter the Storm.

Types of Storms

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Some storms can be a visual thing of beauty and some storms can leave a person homeless with total loss of possessions. Worst yet, storms can take a persons life. There are many varieties and names for storms: Lighting storm, thunderstorm, blizzard, tornado(strong winds) tropical cyclone, windstorm, Hailstorms, icestorm(heavy freezing rain) and dust storms are probably the most common type storms in the United States.

According to Wikipedia, "a storm is any disturbed state of an environment or in an astronomical body's atmosphere especially affecting its surface, and strongly implying severe weather".

Storms are created when a center of low pressure develops with the system of high pressure surrounding it. This combination of opposing forces can create winds and result in the formation of storm clouds such as cumulonimbus.

Each region has its own type of storms. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we do not get the tornadoes like they do in the Mid-West and in the South. Here, in the PNW we get a wet with rain 230 plus days a year. With this in mind, SERVPRO has strategically placed 1700 plus franchises across the United States. Here in Longview Washington, you have a locally owned SERVPRO that is ready to help. Help you and our community when the time comes.

Ready for the Storm

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storms can be quite destructive to any size of residential or commercial property here in the Pacific Northwest. When a winter storm hits, it can significantly interrupt if not suspend your business operations. Winter storms can bring freezing rain, ice, snow, high winds, or a combination of these conditions, which can undoubtedly cause thousands of dollars of damage to your property if you not prepared.

~Clear out your gutters.

While it is important to regularly maintain your gutters, it is especially important to clear them out before a big storm. With the rain storm typically comes a downpour of leaves and other debris. If the gutters aren’t cleared out they are likely to clog and limit the water that can drain off of the roof.

~Regularly inspect and repair your roof.

Heavy precipitation can result in erosion and cracking. The real trouble starts when cracking occurs during heavy rains (or when heavy rains hit and expand an existing crack). This crack will let water into your building, leading to leaks, flooding, and mold. Inspecting your roof annually can prevent major damage.

~Maintain and inspect joints and windows.

Flashing, joints, sealant, windows, etc. Anywhere two planes or surfaces come together, there is potential for leaks. And where there are leaks, there can be mold. These leaks can be caused by the wear down of a material over time, shifting of the property or simply from daily use.

~Prevent frozen pipes.

Business owners should be concerned about frozen pipes as the weather turns cold. Insure the pipes in unheated spaces are properly insulated so that the water inside does not expand and burst. You will also need to keep the temperature on your thermostat set to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

~ Clearing storm drains.

Storm drains are in place to move excess water away from buildings, driveways, and walkways.  Although it is the cities job to maintain these, being watchful can protect you from flooding and water damage.

~ Power surges.

During inclement weather a power surge can  damage equipment, such as computers, fax machines, etc. Taking precautions here by unplugging devices till power is restored will help save you time and money.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is always ready to help if your property sustains storm, fire, or water damage. Visit our website www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com or (360)703-3884

Storm Damage Coverage?

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

The rain is no stranger, to the residents of the Pacific Northwest. We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall for the greater part of the year.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important, but there are a few things you need to know about water damage prior to calling SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

~ Insurance policies won't cover all water damage.

Challengingly enough, most homeowners insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures but, generally, will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in a area where pooling water can affect your home, you may want to invest in an additional policy.

~ Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

~ Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website https://www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment

Covered from the Storm?

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

The rain is no stranger, to the residents of the Pacific Northwest. We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall in 8 of the 12 months.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important and having the understanding of what you are covered, for the water damage, is also very important.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

Insurance policies won't cover all water damage.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures and generally will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water, also known as ground water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in a area where pooling water can affect your home, you will need to contact your insurance agent soon and go over your homeowners policy. We understand budgets, we are all on one, but we highly recommend that you have a local insurance agent with local ties, an office where you can go sit face to face and go over your coverage’s.

Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website https://www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment.

Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

Winter's thaw

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Crazy to think, but snow is weight and when freezes and turns into ice, the weight multiplies. Too much snow and/or ice on a roof can cause it to collapse. Also, roof leaks may occur when the snow or ice starts to thaw causing water to drip into your living space. Making a plan to protect your home from damage caused by this can be beneficial.

Here are a few ways to prevent damage to your roof, basement, crawlspace and sidewalk:

Roof:

How much snow can your roof handle?

Flat and low-slope roofs accumulate more snow and ice, while melting snow runs off of steep sloped roofs. Ice and snow also tend to pile up on porches and places next to a taller section of the house, especially during high winds. Unless the roof structure is damaged or decayed, most residential roofs can hold 20lbs per square foot of snow before they become stressed.

The best way to prevent damage is to remove snow from roofs, covered patios, carports and awnings. 

Basement, Attics, and crawl space

Once you notice water damage, repair rooms promptly to prevent mold from growing.

• On the roof check for loose or missing shingles.
• Check the attic, basement, or crawlspace for leaks, signs of moisture damage, and standing water.
• Clean and clear the gutters and ensure they are functioning properly.
• Check siding, windows and doors to ensure no areas have come loose or that water has seeped in.

Sidewalk

Homeowners are legally obligated to clear their sidewalks of ice and snow but while your out there it's a good time to check that the nearest storm drain is clear of debris, because when everything melts it can potentially cause flooding.

If you experience any type of water damage, simply call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884. We will happily answer your question. Some questions may require us to look at it, and we can do that too. We are here to help. We hope you all have a safe and warm winter!

Protecting your Home from Secondary Damages.

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

A residential home as the rain drains off the roof.

There are lots of different issues that could cause damage to your home; Roof damage is one of those. Damage due to storms is the most typical, but there are several things that could cause the damage to your roof some being more visible than others.

It is always good practice to have your roof inspected every 10-12 years, unless there has been a specific issue that may have caused a reason to check it sooner such as a severe storm, hail, or some other sort of natural disaster.  Unfortunately, when your roof becomes damaged it can lead to bigger issues that may ultimately cause water damage to the interior of your home.

Here we mention a few things to look for when you are inspecting your roof:

• Loose or missing shingles: this could be caused by high winds, improper installation, or simply wearing out over exposure to the elements through the years. Loose nails can also leave a hole in the shingle that water can find its way through as well.
• Poor installation of the flashing. "Flashing" is the metal that is placed in the sections where the roof meets the walls, or in the valleys. This must be installed properly to divert water from the roof.
• Gutters that are not placed with the right pitch, or that have seems that are not sealed properly can also cause water to back up and then overflow into the house causing water damage to ceilings and/or walls. Not having gutter guards to keep leaves and debris from collecting in the gutters can cause overflow of water that can result in damage to your roof and other areas of your home as well.
• Rotted fascia or soffit can also be an area that allows water to intrude.

If you suspect that you may have roof damage causing water damage to your home please feel free to contact us at (360) 703-3884 and we will be happy to assist you.

SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso will be there for all of your home repairs or accidents.

Cold Weather Storms Impacting your Home.

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Winterizing your property can save you from more then just a high energy bill.

It has been a cold winter season this year in Southwest Washington. However, the heating season is not over yet. Cold temperatures can create a negative impact on your home and property. It’s key that you take the necessary precautions for your home not only for cold weather, but for storm season as well in order to limit potential risks and damages. When doing routine maintenance, it’s always better to be prepared and go the extra step to insure that you are limiting risks of damage. It’s important to be thorough while inspecting your building.

• Basements and crawlspaces in your home can be areas where heat escapes.  Be sure to seal and insulate around any HVAC ducts, basement windows, and any exposed pipes.
• Try installing foam-rubber gaskets behind electrical outlets & switch covers on exterior walls.
• If you don’t use your fireplace, plug the flue with an inflatable plug, or another item, that is safe and limits possible water to entry into your home.
• Make sure you replace any broken windows, re-putty any loose window panes, seal around windows and door trims, or use weather stripping for windows that are opened.  This minor step can make a world of difference in heat efficiency and preventing water intrusion.
• For attic spaces it’s best to weather strip & insulate the access door properly, seal around your chimney with metal flashing or a high temperature sealant, seal around plumbing vents, seal any holes between the heated space of your home and the attic, and don’t forget to insulate any exposed water pipes!

If water damage occurs in your home due to extreme weather or any other means, make sure to call the restoration team at your local SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso. Our technicians are trained and experienced in dealing with not only average water damage but storm water damages to buildings as well. Give SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso a call today for your building damages at (360) 703-3884.

Safely preparing for power outages during a storm.

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster, your local SERVPRO is always here even in the darkest of times.

Power outages in the Pacific Northwest are often due to downed power lines and heavy wind storms, during the winter months. SERVPRO would like to help you make a plan and be safe.

Power outages can cause a number of safety concerns; knowing the following information can help:

Ways to prepare before a power outage

• Register life-sustaining and medical equipment with your utility company.
• Consider buying a generator. When installing a generator, follow the instructions carefully.
• Make sure your disaster preparedness kit contains light sticks, flashlights, a battery-powered radio with extra batteries and a wind-up clock.
• Have a corded telephone available — cordless phones will not work when the power is out.
• Have a safe alternative heat source and supply of fuel. Never burn charcoal or use a generator indoors.
• If you own an electric garage door opener, know how to open the door without power.

During a power outage

• Turn off lights and electrical appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer.
• Even if it is dark, turn light switches and buttons on lamps or appliances to the “off” position.
• Unplug computers and other sensitive equipment to protect them from possible surges when the power is restored.
• Leave one lamp on so you will know when power is restored. Wait at least 15 minutes after power is restored before turning on other appliances.
• Conserve water, especially if you use well water.
• Never use gas ovens, gas ranges, or portable or propane heaters for indoor heating—they use oxygen and create carbon monoxide that can cause suffocation.
• Candles can cause a fire. It's far better to use battery-operated flashlights or glow sticks for lighting.
• Using a kerosene heater, gas lantern or stove inside the house can be dangerous. Maintain proper ventilation at all times to avoid a build up of toxic fumes.
• Stay away from downed power lines and sagging trees with broken limbs

Keeping food safe

• Use and store food carefully to prevent foodborne illness when power outages make refrigeration unavailable.
• Use foods first that can spoil most rapidly.
• Keep doors to refrigerators and freezers closed. Your refrigerator's freezer will keep food frozen for up to a day. A separate fully-loaded freezer will keep food frozen for two days.
• Use an ice chest packed with ice or snow to keep food cold. Use blocks or bags of ice to save refrigerator foods.
• If in doubt, throw it out. Throw out meat, seafood, dairy products and cooked food that does not feel cold.
• Never taste suspect food. Even if food looks and smells fine, illness-causing bacteria may be present.

Generator use during a power outage 

Don't overload your generator, determine the amount of power you will need to operate those things you plan to connect.

• Light bulb wattage indicates the power needed for lighting.
• Appliances and equipment labels indicate their power requirements. 

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso would also like to share a friendly reminder, to check on the elderly in your neighborhood ensuring their safety. The power outages we have experienced over the past years in Washington are normally restored fairly quickly. However, in the event of a longer outage, it's important to know how to be prepared.

If you have ineluctably experienced storm damage to your home, we are here for you 24/7.

Is your business ready for a winter storm?

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Who will you call when your business needs restored... SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884!

Winter storms can be quite destructive to any size of residential or commercial property here in the Pacific Northwest. When a winter storm hits, it can significantly interrupt if not suspend your business operations. Winter storms can bring freezing rain, ice, snow, high winds, or a combination of these conditions. Which can undoubtedly cause thousands of dollars of damage to your property if your not prepared.

Ways to prepare your business before a storm: 

• Clear out your gutters.

While it is important to regularly maintain your gutters, it is especially important to clear them out before a big storm. With the rain storm typically comes a downpour of leaves and other debris. If the gutters aren’t cleared out they are likely to clog and limit the water that can drain off of the roof.

• Regularly inspect and repair your roof.

Heavy precipitation can result in erosion and cracking. The real trouble starts when cracking occurs during heavy rains (or when heavy rains hit and expand an existing crack). This crack will let water into your building, leading to leaks, flooding, and mold. Inspecting your roof annually can prevent major damage.

• Maintain and inspect joints and windows.

Flashing, joints, sealant, windows, etc. Anywhere two planes or surfaces come together, there is potential for leaks. And where there are leaks, there can be mold. These leaks can be caused by the wear down of a material over time, shifting of the property or simply from daily use.

• Prevent frozen pipes.

Business owners should be concerned about frozen pipes as the weather turns cold. Insure the pipes in unheated spaces are properly insulated so that the water inside does not expand and burst. You will also need to keep the temperature on your thermostat set to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Clearing storm drains.

Storm drains are in place to move excess water away from buildings, driveways, and walkways.  Although it is the cities job to maintain these, being watchful can protect you from flooding and water damage.

• Power surges.

During inclement weather a power surge can  damage equipment, such as computers, fax machines, etc. Taking precautions here by unplugging devices till power is restored will help save you time and money.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is always ready to help if your property sustains storm, fire, or water damage. Visit our website to learn more about the commercial services we offer.

When disaster strikes, having a plan and being able to put it into immediate action can mean the difference between staying open and being forced to close for several days. Your local SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster (360)703-3884.

Does your insurance policy cover your home from storm damage?

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Preventative measures can help you avoid water damage to your home from a storm and prevent costly repairs.

The rain is no stranger, to the residents of the Pacific Northwest. We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall for the greater part of the year.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important, but there are a few things you need to know about water damage prior to calling SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

Insurance policies won't cover all water damage.

Challengingly enough, most homeowners insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures but, generally, will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in a area where pooling water can affect your home, you may want to invest in an additional policy.

Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website https://www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment.

Preventing damage after the storm melts.

11/30/2019 (Permalink)

Some cold, hard facts on winter risks to property.

Too much heavy snow on a roof can cause it to collapse and leaks in the roof may mean melting snow, ice, and rain can drip into your living space. So making a plan to protect your home from damage can be beneficial.

Outside, freezing air isn't kind to your plants and snow piling up on your sidewalk and damaged trees need your attention, too.

Here are ways to prevent damage to your roof, basement and yard, and to clean up and prepare for the thaw:

Roof:

How much snow can your roof handle?

Flat and low-slope roofs accumulate more snow and ice, while melting snow runs off of steep sloped roofs. Ice and snow also tend to pile up on porches and places next to a taller section of the house, especially during high winds. Unless the roof structure is damaged or decayed, most residential roofs can hold 20lbs per square foot of snow before they become stressed.

The best way to prevent damage is to remove snow from roofs, covered patios, carports and awnings. 

Basement, Attics, and crawl space

Once you notice water damage, repair rooms promptly to prevent mold from growing.

• On the roof check for loose or missing shingles.
• Check the attic, basement, or crawlspace for leaks, signs of moisture damage, and standing water.
• Clean and clear the gutters and ensure they are functioning properly.
• Check siding, windows and doors to ensure no areas have come loose or that water has seeped in.

Sidewalk

Homeowners are legally obligated to clear their sidewalks of ice and snow but while your out there it's a good time to check that the nearest storm drain is clear of debris, because when everything melts it can potentially cause flooding.

If you have experienced or have water damage call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884. We hope you all have a safe and warm winter!