Winter Causes of Water Damage and How to Prevent It

12/2/2024 (Permalink)

Winter can bring with it more than just cold temperature, it can also lead to serious water damage in your home or business.

As the winter chill sets in, we are all focused on staying warm and cozy. However, winter can bring with it more than just cold temperature, it can also lead to serious water damage in your Malvern, Pekin, Midvale, or surrounding areas home or business. Freezing pipes, heavy snowfalls, and ice dams are just a few of the common culprits that can wreak havoc on your property. The good news is, with a little proactive maintenance, you can avoid the costly and stressful consequences of winter water damage.

Here’s what you need to know about the winter causes of water damage and how to prevent them.

Frozen Pipes: A Hidden Threat

One of the most common winter water damage issues is frozen pipes. As temperatures drop, water in pipes can freeze, causing the pipes to expand. This pressure can lead to cracks or bursts in the pipe, potentially causing significant flooding when the ice thaws.

How to Prevent It:

• Insulate Pipes: Wrap your pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages, with foam insulation to help prevent freezing.
• Allow Faucets to Drip: In extremely cold weather, allow a faucet to drip slightly. The constant flow of water reduces the risk of freezing.
• Keep the Heat On: Even if you're going away for a while, leave your thermostat set to at least 55°F to keep the pipes in your home warm enough to prevent freezing.
• Seal Cracks and Gaps: Ensure there are no drafts around windows, doors, or areas where pipes are located. Seal any cracks that may allow cold air to reach your plumbing.

Ice Dams: Roof and Gutter Problems

Ice dams are formed when snow on your roof melts due to heat escaping from your attic, then refreezes along the edges of the roof. This buildup of ice can prevent water from draining off the roof, causing it to back up and leak into your attic or down into your home’s walls and ceilings.

How to Prevent It:

• Clear Gutters: Make sure your gutters are clean before winter sets in. Clogged gutters can trap water, which can freeze and contribute to ice dam formation.
• Improve Attic Insulation and Ventilation: Proper insulation and ventilation help keep the roof cold, reducing the risk of melting snow. Be sure to check that your attic is properly insulated to prevent heat loss.
• Roof Maintenance: Keep an eye on the condition of your roof, and repair any leaks or missing shingles that may allow water to penetrate.

Melting Snow and Heavy Rain: Overwhelming Drainage Systems

During winter, snow accumulates on roofs, driveways, and yards. When temperatures rise, this snow melts, and if the ground is already frozen, it may not absorb the water as efficiently. This can lead to flooding, especially around the foundation of your home.

How to Prevent It:

• Clear Snow Away from Foundations: After snowstorms, shovel snow away from the perimeter of your home to prevent melting snow from seeping into your basement or foundation.
• Check the Drainage System: Make sure your downspouts and drains are working properly. Ensure water is directed away from the foundation and not pooling around your home.
• Install Sump Pumps: If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider installing a sump pump in your basement to help divert excess water away from your home.

Condensation: A Less Obvious Culprit

Winter brings cold air inside, and with the warmth of indoor heating systems, condensation can become an issue. When warm air comes into contact with cold surfaces, it can create excess moisture, leading to potential mold growth or water damage in hidden spaces like walls or ceilings.

How to Prevent It:

• Use a Dehumidifier: Keep the humidity levels in your home balanced. If condensation is a problem, a dehumidifier can help regulate moisture levels and prevent excess water buildup.
• Increase Air Circulation: Use fans or open cabinets under sinks to allow air to circulate, preventing moisture buildup.
• Ventilate Areas Properly: Make sure that areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens, are well-ventilated, and use exhaust fans when cooking or showering.

Damage from Ice and Snow on Structures

Heavy snow and ice accumulation on roofs, decks, and other structures can cause damage due to the weight. This can lead to water infiltration if the structure fails, or snow and ice melt and seep into cracks.

How to Prevent It:

• Remove Snow and Ice from Roofs and Decks: If safe, use a roof rake to remove excess snow from your roof. Be mindful not to damage shingles or gutters in the process.
• Inspect Roofs for Structural Integrity: Ensure your roof is in good condition before winter hits. Replace damaged shingles and check for any weak spots that could be prone to collapse under heavy snow.

Be Prepared and Stay Safe

Winter weather may be unpredictable, but with the right precautions, you can protect your home or business from water damage. By taking these steps to prevent frozen pipes, ice dams, snow accumulation, and condensation issues, you can avoid costly repairs and the stress that comes with water damage.

If you experience water damage this winter, SERVPRO of New Philadelphia is here. Our team is ready 24/7 to respond to your emergency and restore your property quickly and efficiently. Stay safe, stay warm, and remember – prevention is key!

If you need professional help with water damage restoration or emergency services, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of New Philadelphia. 

Call SERVPRO When You Experience a Water Damage Disaster

4/29/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of New Philadelphia recommends that you give us a call when you experience an emergency water damage disaster.

We have experienced many rain storms early this month. Rain storms can cause a lot of damage in New Philadelphia, Winfield, Pekin, and surrounding areas. An influx of water from storms causes flooding that can cause flooding in homes and commercial properties. It is not uncommon for homes to experience flooding in basements that comes in either through the windows, floors, walls, or even the sump pump can get overwhelmed and stop working, causing a water back up in the home. When water backs up into your home, you are probably unsure of what to do first. SERVPRO of New Philadelphia recommends that you give us a call when you experience a water disaster. We can help walk you through the process of how to make it, “Like it never even happened.” For immediate assistance when you experience an emergency water disaster, give us a call! You can call (330) 556-4656. 

How do I Unfreeze Pipes and Prevent Property Damage?

1/19/2024 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes your property, immediate response is critical.

The winter weather brings freezing temperatures that can negatively affect your Malvern, New Philadelphia, Midvale, and surrounding areas home and commercial property. If you suspect that the pipes in your property are frozen, SERVPRO of New Philadelphia is Here to Help®. 

Here are some tips on how to unfreeze frozen pipes:

• Turn on the faucets to relieve pressure
• Locate the frozen area and slowly apply heat using a hairdryer, heating pad, or space heater. (It's important to avoid using an open flame or electrical appliances near standing water.)

To prevent future freezing,

• Insulate exposed pipes
• Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air circulation
• Maintain a consistent temperature in your property, especially during cold weather

When water damage strikes your property, immediate response is critical. That’s where SERVPRO of New Philadelphia comes in. For fast, safe, and reliable restoration services, contact our team of highly trained professionals today! For immediate assistance, call (330) 556-4656 or visit our website to learn more.

Winter Storm Damage in Malvern

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

Strong winds can knock down trees and power lines, causing widespread power outages throughout the area.

Malvern can experience significant damage due winter storms. Strong winds can knock down trees and power lines, causing widespread power outages throughout the area. Many buildings can suffer from roof and structural damage due to heavy snowfall and ice accumulation. Road and transportation systems can also become greatly affected, with numerous accidents and delays reported. Local authorities work diligently to restore power and clear roadways, but it may take some time before full recovery is achieved. Residents are advised to stay indoors and exercise caution until the situation improves. This is typically what results are from winter storms. 

SERVPRO of New Philadelphia is available 24/7 for your Dundee, Strasburg, Gilmore, and surrounding areas home. Winter storm damage is no joke. Make sure to pay attention to local weather news when you are experiencing blizzard type weather. Do your best to prepare your home and make sure you have enough groceries and water to last. If you ever need immediate assistance due to water damage in your home, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Call (330) 556-4656 for immediate assistance, or visit our Website to learn more.

How Water Damage Affects Your Malvern Home

11/23/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can have a severe impact on homes. It can saturate walls, floors, and ceilings, leading to mold and mildew growth.

Water damage can have a severe impact on homes. It can saturate walls, floors, and ceilings, leading to mold and mildew growth, which can cause negative side effects. Waterlogged walls may crack and warp, and wooden structures may rot, compromising their structural integrity. Electrical systems can also be damaged, leading to electrical hazards that can increase the risk of fires. In addition to the cost of cleanup and repairs, water damage can lower property value and make it difficult to sell a home, making it a significant problem for homeowners.

If you are concerned as to whether or not your Dundee, Wilkshire Hills, Dover, or surrounding areas home has water damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO of New Philadelphia. We are available 24/7 for emergency water disasters. Our teams are highly trained and experienced and can detect water damage in your home, even if it is unseen. For immediate assistance call, (330) 556-4656, or visit our Website to learn more.

Watch Out for Ice Dams in New Philadelphia

11/23/2023 (Permalink)

Ice dams are caused by a combination of factors.

New Philadelphia, Malvern, Pekin, and surrounding areas are prone to experiencing ice dams in the cold winter months. Ice dams are caused by a combination of factors, including snow accumulation on a sloped roof, heat loss from the interior of the building, and freezing temperatures. When heat escapes from the building, it melts the snow on the roof, which then refreezes at the eaves or overhangs where it is colder. This continuous melting and refreezing process forms ice dams. The dams prevent snowmelt from properly draining off the roof, leading to water backup, which can result in leaks, water damage, and potential structural issues if not addressed in a timely manner.

SERVPRO of New Philadelphia is available 24/7 for emergency water damage. When water damage occurs to your Wilkshire Hills, Midvale, Gilmore and surrounding areas home, we are only a phone call away. For immediate assistance call (330) 556-4656 or visit our Website to learn more.

Emergency Water Damage in Pekin Commercial Building

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

If you are in need of assistance for your New Philadelphia commercial property, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Have you experienced water damage in your Pekin, Gilmore, Midvale, or surrounding areas commercial building? During the winter months, you can experience water damage from melting snow, frozen pipes breaking, and more. In some types of commercial properties this kind of water damage can occur in includes school buildings, government facilities, apartment buildings, office buildings, hotels, retail stores, restaurants, and more. SERVPRO of New Philadelphia has over 20 years of experience and has trained and experienced water damage restoration professionals to make your building look, ‘Like it never even happened.’We are available 24/7 for emergency water disasters. If you are in need of assistance for your New Philadelphia commercial property, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our teams are highly trained and experienced and they are ready at a moment's notice to assist you. For immediate assistance call, (330) 556-4656 or visit our Website to learn more.

SERVPRO® - A Leading Fire and Water Restoration Company in Malvern

11/10/2023 (Permalink)

With our company, there is no need to hire other third parties. We have the capacity and capabilities to serve you the whole way through.

SERVPRO of New Philadelphia is a leading fire and water restoration company in Malvern, Pekin, Minerva, and surrounding areas. We are available 24/7 for emergency fire and water damage disasters. Our technicians, project managers, and priority responders are available at all times. Our teams are highly trained and experienced in the fire and water restoration industry. In addition, we are able to service you from beginning to end, from mitigation to complete restoration and reconstruction. With our company, there is no need to hire other third parties. We have the capacity and capabilities to serve you the whole way through. This will save you time, money, and keep you from confusion. The insurance process becomes easier when you only have one vendor to work with and one vendor to communicate with. 

Our teams lead with care and compassion. They make sure to communicate thoroughly with our customers throughout the whole process to help turn chaos into peace. If you live in Strasburg, Uhrichsville, Dover, or surrounding areas and experience fire or water damage, don’t hesitate to give us a call. For immediate assistance, call (330) 556-4656 or visit our Website to learn more.

Professional Company Restores Fire Damage in Malvern

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

We work directly with your insurance to make the process as seamless for you as possible.

SERVPRO of New Philadelphia is proud to serve Pekin, Malvern, and surrounding areas. Our team is highly trained and experienced in restoring fire damage to both residential homes and commercial properties. We work directly with your insurance to make the process as seamless for you as possible. 

The fire restoration process involves several steps including assessment of damage, cleaning up debris, removal of smoke and soot, and repair and restoration of damaged structures. After identifying the extent of the damage, our team of trained professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove debris, clean surfaces, and sanitize affected areas. Water and smoke removal is also an important part of the process, as these can cause damage. Finally, repairs are made to ensure the structure is safe and habitable. If you need assistance with fire damage repair, we are available 24/7 for emergencies. For immediate assistance call (330) 556-4656 or you can visit our Website to learn more.

Water Damage Restoration for Your New Philadelphia Home

10/28/2023 (Permalink)

A great way to be prepared for a water damage event is to check your home insurance. Take a look at your policy and check your coverage.

Water damage always hits your Pekin, Malvern, Minerva, and surrounding area homes unexpectedly. Although water damage is unexpected, it is not impossible to be prepared for an event like this. A great way to be prepared for a water damage event is to check your home insurance. Take a look at your policy and see what kind of water damage insurance you have. Here at SERVPRO, we recommend having at least $10,000 in water damage insurance. When water damage strikes, it strikes hard and typically costs up to $10,000 for a thorough restoration process.

Give your insurance policy holder a call and ask them what you can do to further protect your home in case of water damage disaster. In addition, have a preferred water damage restoration company on speed dial. SERVPRO of New Philadellphia is one of your leading local water damage restoration companies that has over 20 years of experience in water damage restoration. 

If you have experienced water damage in your New Philadelphia home, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We are available 24/7 for emergency water damage disasters. Our crews are alwasy ready and on standby to help at a moment's notice. For immediate assistance, call (330) 556-4656 or visit our Website to learn more.