A fast response lessens water damage restoration.

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

One of the most important initial steps for you to do following a water damage or flooding event in your West Bradenton / Anna Maria home is to contact your insurance agent and then to call a water damage restoration company.

The insurance agent will be able to send an adjuster to the property to complete the water damage assessment. If you call SERVPRO® of West Bradenton / Anna Maria (941) 792-7715, a field operator who is always available, will also arrive at your property.

SERVPRO has extensive relationships with insurance companies, adjusters, management companies and government agencies. This offers a unique opportunity for your adjuster and the SERVPRO® of West Bradenton / Anna Maria inspector to assess and develop a plan of action for your home.

The water damage restoration expert will complete a report known as the CCIS. The Contents Claim Inventory Service technology inventories items room by room and categorizes these items as salvageable, non-salvageable or questionable. This form arms you with information to work with your insurance adjuster to come to an agreement on how SERVPRO can best serve you. With a "Work Authorization Form" in hand, the expert technicians can immediately start the water damage restoration process. The importance of a quick implementation of the water damage restoration plan cannot be over-emphasized. Standing water within your home can only compound the damage the longer it remains.

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. SERVPRO® West Bradenton / Anna Maria is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, we have highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration. Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important.

A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Call SERVPRO® of West Bradenton / Anna Maria 

(941) 792-7715

Water damage? What you can do until help arrives.

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

However big or small the damage left behind, flooding is the last thing any homeowner wants to deal with. With ruined floors, items being washed away, and damage around every corner, you may look around and wonder: what now? Let SERVPRO guide you through the next steps, call (941) 792-7715.

Until Help Arrives

While getting a jumpstart on the restoration process is important, even more important is your safety. First and foremost, decide if it is safe for you to remain inside your home, or if you’d be in less danger outside of your home. Regardless of your location, be careful that the activities you perform don’t put you in a position to get harmed. Post-water damage, some actions which may have been inconsequential before are now potential hazards. Be cautious as you move around, as the most severe dangers water damage can leave behind is electrical damage and slick floors which increase the risk of falling. Be careful when handling wet materials, as these may become heavier than expected. 

After a Flooding

Now that you’ve taken the necessary steps to secure your safety, it’s time to deal with the aftermath of the flood. There are various actions you can take to minimize damage. Likely, you will find plenty of excess water around your home. Mop this up as you find it, especially when found on wooden furniture. Then you’ll want to begin moving items. Wet upholstery should be moved and put away to dry, as should art, loose items found lying on the floor, and colored rugs. With this done, there are a few more precautions you can take. Use wood blocks or aluminum foil and wedge them between furniture legs or wet carpeting. To dry out any remaining moisture in your home, turn on your air conditioning.

What no to do

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Keep these tips in mind to avoid making costly mistakes. 

Don’t leave items lying around on the floor, especially not colored items like books which can leave behind stains. Move wet fabrics to a dry place, and if you have furs or leathers, hang them up to dry. Don’t use household appliances like your TV, or use your vacuum to try to remove excess water you discover. Avoid turning ceiling fixtures on if you have wet ceilings, and be sure to steer clear of rooms where the damage is so severe that the ceilings have begun to sag.

Let SERVPRO guide you through the next steps, call (941) 792-7715.

Our water damage restoration process.

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Your home or place of business may have sustained water damage, and you should take quick action to repair this problem to reduce the risk of further, more expensive damage to your property. Have faith in our group of highly skilled specialists who are armed to the teeth with the necessary tools and gear to save the day. To correctly return your property to the condition it was in before the loss, our objective is to use the least invasive way possible. 

We use cutting-edge technology to document the damage and develop a scientific strategy, and then we deploy the appropriate quantity of drying equipment to meet our drying objectives. We have established pricing that is in line with industry standards even though every water damage is unique. 

We are an approved preferred vendor with many different insurance companies and take part in hundreds of other national account programs. For the remediation of water damage, SERVPRO of West Bradenton/Anna Maria is certified by and follows the industry standard IICRC S-500 protocol for water damage mitigation.

Damage from Water or Floods? 

Call Today – (941) 792-7715 

Although every instance of water damage is slightly unique and calls for a specialized response, the procedure of repairing the damage remains mostly unchanged. You can get additional information about any of the stages that are listed below.

Step 1: Emergency Contact 

When you give us a call, we will immediately begin working to resolve the issue. Our representative will walk you through the problem and may ask you a few questions to find out more information about the tools and resources that will be needed.

Moreover, here is our “Do’s and Don’ts” guide to assist you in case of an emergency.

Step 2: Inspection and Water Damage Assessment 

At this time, we assess the level of damage that was caused by the water. We investigate and analyze the damage to determine how severe it is and the extent to which the water has spread. This ensures that the damage is repaired correctly and completely.

Step 3: Water Removal / Water Extraction

The process of removing the water starts fairly immediately afterward and eliminates most of the water. We quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your home using powerful pumps and vacuum equipment, which helps avoid subsequent water damage and the growth of mold.

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification 

We make use of specialized machinery to extract the remaining water that is more difficult to reach. To estimate the ideal amount of air movers and dehumidifiers required to dry your house or place of business, our professionals will consider room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity as their primary data points.

Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing 

We clean every piece of property and structure that can be repaired that was harmed by the water. We are proficient at cleaning content utilizing a variety of different approaches. Sanitizing treatments, odor removal, and deodorizing your property are all part of the services that our professionals are trained to deliver.

Step 6: Restoration 

The process of restoring your home or company to the condition it was in before it was damaged by water is referred to as restoration. Restoration can involve relatively minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or it can involve significantly more extensive repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms within a home or business. 

Either way, the result is the same: the property is returned to its original condition.

Call Today – (941) 792-7715 

Water Damage Restoration Specialists in West Bradenton / Anna Maria

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria is a locally owned and operated business. Many of the people who will come to help you in your time of crisis may just be your neighbors! We are proud to be an active member of the Lakewood Ranch community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be. The following communities are our first priority:

• Bradenton, FL
• Anna Maria, FL
• Holmes Beach, FL
• Bradenton Beach, FL
• Longboat Key, FL
• Bayshore Gardens, FL
• Palma Sola, FL
• West Bradenton, FL
• Cortez, FL
• Perico Island, FL

How Do We Handle Water Damage?

After you give us a call, the first thing that we do is work with you to learn exactly what happened to your property. The scope of the damage is assessed by a SERVPRO professional on sight, and this information is then used to determine how to best remove storm damage and bring your property back to pre-disaster condition.

In the case of water issues, this means water extraction, followed by drying and dehumidification. All restorable items and structures which have been damaged are then cleaned and sanitized. Finally, we close everything off with our restoration process. This process includes:

• Minor/major repairs
• Replacing drywall
• Installing new carpet
• Etc

What Should You Do Until We Arrive?

No matter how fast we are (and we’re pretty fast), it’ll still take a bit of time to reach your property. You’ll have a few minutes until we arrive, but that doesn’t mean you have to sit and stress the whole time. We’ve developed a guide for water damage emergency tips.

The simplest thing you can do is start to remove excess water. You can do this by using a mop or some towels. Something else which will be extremely useful is to remove loose items from floors- especially if they’re electronic. Try to keep electronics as far away from the water as possible, but don’t put yourself in danger. Better to have ruined electronics and be safe than for a much worse scenario!

Ready to tackle water damage? Call us at (941) 792-7715.

For more information on water damage and restoration, check out our Water Damage page.

Best Emergency Cleaning in West Brandon / Anna Maria

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to disasters, very few people anticipate that they will be affected. In fact, many don’t realize that they need help until they’ve been hit. While competitors will turn the other way and go on holiday, we pride ourselves on taking your needs seriously. SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.  

The last thing that a property owner should worry about is their home or business falling apart due to mold, or being destroyed because of fire and water damage. SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria is there to help, day or night, rain or shine.

Call US 24/7 at (941) 792-7715

Why You Need Emergency Cleaning

SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria is filled with highly-trained professionals. Rest assured that our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property, no matter the size of the emergency.

Immediate action is needed when it comes to emergency cleaning and restoration. Water damage, for example, can significantly destroy your property within a few minutes.

In the first hour, water damage will bleed into your walls, floors, upholstery, and other belongings, causing them to stain and warm. All it takes is a single day for drywall to break down and the stench caused by water damage to take hold. Within two days to a week, metal corrosion and serious biohazard contamination become a major issue.

The longer you wait, the more expensive and unsafe things get. That’s why it’s so important to call SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria the moment you notice that something is wrong. We will start restoration immediately, and work with your insurance to cut your costs.

Get help through our 24 Hour line: (941) 792-7715

Disasters can be tough, but they don’t have to be devastating. Emergency cleaning done by SERVPRO professionals is always the way to go.

Water Damage? Here’s What to Do.

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Nearly 25% of homeowners are going to experience water damage in their home at some point. Water damage is one of the most common, and most costly, types of insurance claims for homeowners. So when you find water damage in your home, what can you do? Here are some do it yourself tips to use before you call for help.

Step One: Locate the Water Damage Source

Clearly, finding where the water is coming from is important. This can be tricky depending on the location. For example, ceilings with water damage are difficult to locate the source. In such a case, it’s best to call a professional immediately. Give SERVPRO® of West Bradenton / Anna Maria a call at (941) 792-7715. We are strategically located to respond quickly to your water emergency event, and can help lower the stress of insurance paperwork and processes.

Step Two: Shut Off Your Water and Electricity

If you find the source of your water damage, you may realize that it’s an internal issue (ie a pipe). Shut off your water as fast as you can to reduce any additional damage. Any electronics on the affected area should be removed. If they are too heavy or too numerous to move, turn off the electricity completely.

Step Three: Remove As Much As You Can

Once you have turned off the water and electricity, you should try to remove as many of your personal items as you can. Water damage on some items may cause them to be unsalvageable. Since heavy furniture may be difficult or impossible to move, you may qualify for a deductible with any resulting insurance claims.

What The Pros Do About Water Damage

Technicians from SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria are trained extensively in water damage restoration of all kinds, and we are confident we can handle any water damage you have. If your Bradenton property has been damaged by water caused by flooding or water leaks, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment to restore your property properly.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Call us 24/7 at (941) 792-7715 for emergency services or a quote.

If you have any questions, send us a message. We’ll get in touch with you as soon as possible.

5 Causes of Commercial Water Damage

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage can destroy more than just your physical property. It can also destroy your company’s revenue for a period of time and pose a health risk to customers and employees if the water damage is not handled properly. Mitigating the water damage quickly is critical in order to minimize its impact on your business. 

The most common five causes of commercial water damage are: 

1. Storm Damage

Severe weather from hurricanes, thunderstorms, and flash floods can cause significant water damage to your property. Before a storm hits, make sure that your building is prepared for possible severe weather. Keeping your gutters cleaned out and free of debris is an extremely important part of being prepared for a potential storm. In addition, it is important that your property has a functioning drainage system to help water drain away from your building. 

2. Roof Damage

While high winds or heavy rainfall can cause roof damage, your roof can also be damaged due to improper roof maintenance, such as missing shingles or cracked caulking. If a large tree branch or a tree trunk falls onto your roof, it can cause structural damage as well. At the same time, heavy rooftop equipment—common with commercial buildings—can create entry points for water intrusion due to missing screws, punctures from maintenance tools, and ventilation panels not being 100% waterproof when hard, driving rain occurs. 

3. Broken Pipes

Commercial water damage due to broken or damaged pipes is extremely common, unfortunately. Due to the pipes usually being inside walls, floors, or ceilings, it can be difficult to identify the exact issue or even where the leak is occurring within your building. Water damage professionals, such as ourselves here at SERVPRO, can help you find the leak with leak detection tools and equipment. If you notice any signs of water damage with an unknown cause—water stains on walls or ceilings, loose tiles, and musty or moldy smells—call a professional right away in order to keep the damage from spreading even further within your building.

4. Leaking Sprinkler Systems

Like broken or leaking pipes, your building’s sprinkler system can also cause water damage due to leaks. Inspect your system regularly to help avoid potential leaks. By routinely checking your sprinkler system and keeping an eye out for wet carpet or walls, you have a better chance of finding a leaking sprinkler system before it creates bigger problems in your walls or ceilings. 

5. Window Damage

Broken windows or windows that are not sealed properly can allow water or moisture to seep into your building. This could be the result of poor installation or a lack of maintenance. It is important to routinely check to make sure that your windows are not cracked and the sealant is still in place and undamaged. 

Do You Have Water Damage?

If you do have commercial water damage occur, call SERVPRO of West Bradenton/Anna Maria at (941) 792-7715. Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours, and neither do we! Our team provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including all holidays.

Water Damage From Bradenton To The Beaches

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Technicians from SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria are trained extensively in water damage restoration

SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria restoration technicians are trained to deal with all types of water leaks. Leaks are one of the most expensive types of damage that can happen to a home, but also one of the least detected. In some cases it can take months or even years for leaks to cause visual damage, but by that point, it’s too late to take preventative measures.

Leaks can weaken structures, waste water, dissolve building materials, creates dangerous compounds, and foster mold growth. These are some of the most common leaks we encounter on a typical residential call, and how they start: Pipe Leaks Pipe leaks, in cabinets, behind walls, or anywhere else, are one of the most common sources of water damage.

Pipes are often deliberately placed out of view of occupants, so when one develops a leak, it can be a while before anyone notices. These hidden pipe leaks often occur close to normally dry wood and fabric, and once these are consistently soaked by leaking water, they can lose structural integrity or even develop patches of mold growth. In extreme cases, residents sometimes only learn of these leaks when part of their ceiling crashes down into the living room.

Sink, Shower, and Tub Leaks These leaks are often much more damaging and much more noticeable than a pipe leak because they are usually caused by a resident in some way and the leak is immediate. As such, they have less potential for long-term water damage, but can be a big problem, and cause a bigger mess.

Water Tanks and Heaters When water heaters or tanks leak, the damage can go on for hours until it is discovered, causing severe damage to surrounding objects and materials. It is important to know the age of your water heater and consult with a professional plumber when you should replace your water tank heater. Water tank heaters have a manufacturer’s useful life and if your water tank has not been serviced or ignored for many years, the consequences can be very damaging.

Technicians With The Right Training

Technicians from SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria are trained extensively in water damage restoration of all kinds, and we feel confident we can handle any water damage you have.

If your Bradenton property has been damaged by water caused by flooding or water leaks, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment to restore your property properly.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Call us 24/7 at (941) 792-7715 for emergency services or a quote.

Some Things You Should Know About Bradenton Water Damage And Mold

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

While bleach can erase the unsightly black marks of mold spores on the surface, the fungus is still present in the wall.

Using Bleach On Mold After Water Damage 

If you have water damage in your Bradenton home, you've probably thought about the possibility of mold. If you have already discovered mold , do not use bleach to try and clean it.
The idea that bleach kills mold spores is simply not true. Unfortunately that idea has made its way into the do-it-yourself community, leading homeowners and property managers to believe that they can actually kill a mold problem by spraying a bleach solution onto a wall and then wiping it clean.

While the area appears to be clean and rid of the black fungus on the surface, this particular method actually makes the situation worse.

When mold and bleach interact, the mold spores react as if they are being attacked. Spraying the fungus down with bleach causes the mold to shoot off spores to protect itself. So as you are wiping the surface, you are actually spreading the mold spores further out. If the cloth is used in other areas of the home, it can spread the mold to areas that were unaffected, otherwise known as cross contamination.

Mold thrives on moisture, and since the primary component of bleach is water, the solution actually feeds the fungus rather than kill it. Another reason bleach is no match for mold is because its chemicals, which include chlorine, do not penetrate through the porous areas of the sheetrock or wood where the deep roots of the mold spores are located.

Still another reason not to use bleach to combat a mold problem is because the solution is highly acidic, which can threaten the integrity of porous materials. The acidity levels in bleach wreak havoc on the fibers that compose most home building materials such as drywall and baseboard. And not only will the bleach compromise the integrity of the material, it will spread the mold spores to otherwise unaffected areas. Because this damage is occurring beneath the surface, it goes unseen and unnoticed.

While bleach can erase the unsightly black marks of mold spores on the surface, the fungus is still present in the wall. Mold has deep roots and can permeate to the outer areas of the wall, as it seeks out moisture and a food source. Since bleach can only clean up the ugly surface marks and not completely kill the roots, it is not a recommended solution for mold remediation.

SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria never uses bleach on any of its mold remediation projects. Our professionally trained crews understand the problems that can arise out of using bleach on mold spores. With over 25 years of experience responding to property owners and managers with mold in their homes or businesses, our staff can properly and completely clean up any mold situation with the right products and equipment.

As a certified mold remediation company, SERVPRO requires our staff to be trained and able to explain the different types of methods that can be used to clean up mold for our customers. We never sell our services based on fear but rather on information.

If you need any help with eradicating a mold issues please feel free to contact us for an estimate. SERVPRO West Bradenton / Anna Maria (941) 792-7715

Water Damage On Anna Maria Island Needs Immediate Attention

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Living in Florida can often mean waking up to a headline like "Powerful, Severe Thunderstorms Plowed Across the State Overnight." Whether your damage is because of wind, rain or fire, the highly trained team from SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria provides 24 hour emergency response. Water damage doesn't wait for normal business hours, and neither do we.

We are locally owned and operated and will respond quickly. As water and storm damage specialists, we have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property the right way and get your life back to normal. Some of our certifications include:

AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program

In addition, we use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.

Removing the water quickly is critical because if water sits for too long it can start to form mold and create more damage. There can be other dangers like, electrocution or disease and illness from contaminated water. Once the water is removed technicians will place drying equipment throughout your home. Once the home is dry, the equipment can be removed and the rebuilding and repair process can begin. We work to mitigate your risks and minimize your loss.

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria has the teams and the equipment to restore your property quickly. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria is close by and ready to respond to your flood or storm damage emergency (941) 792-7715. We make it, "Like it never even happened."

Water Damage In Your Bradenton Home

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Our team of trained experts have the tools and equipment to mitigate damages to your home or business quickly and properly.

No matter how it gets in your home, water can be very destructive, causing the rusting of steel, rotting of wood, de-laminating of materials like plywood and the growth of mold, plus much more.

Bradenton water damage can be very minor, like water spots which could appear on your wall or ceiling. They can also be catastrophic and instantaneous like flooding. No matter how fast it happens, water damage is a huge contributor to the loss of property.

Remediation

There are different water removal methods and remediation procedures depending upon the category of water. Because of the destructive nature of water, restoration methods heavily rely on how much water is involved, and how much time the water has been allowed to stay stagnant.

Contacting a professional water damage restoration specialist, such as our team at SERVPRO West Bradenton / Anna Maria, is the safest way to restore your property that has been damaged by water because our training and experience are extensive.

Mold Growth

Slight discolorations on your ceiling or walls might go unnoticed for an extended period of time, but they gradually spread and become more severe. They are often ignored even if they are noticed because it is thought that discoloration is a normal part of wear and tear in a home. 

If you suspect at all that you have mold, contact us at SERVPRO West Bradenton / Anna Maria by calling (941) 792-7715 so that we can check it out for you.

If you delay in calling us to help you with your water damage, you will wind up with additional damage to your building. It may cause things that could have been salvaged to no longer be viable; mold will begin to grow and quickly spread through the structure, plus you may wind up with a lot more structural damage than you would have had we been able to get out there in a timely fashion.

This is why it is important to act quickly when you experience any water damage. Not only will your repair costs rise significantly, but you will also have much more loss than you would have. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care. SERVPRO West Bradenton / Anna Maria (941) 792-7715

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. SERVPRO West Bradenton / Anna Maria is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

So when you experience water damage of any kind, do not hesitate to contact us at SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria by calling (941) 792-7715 any time of day or night. We will be to your property quickly so we can begin assessing the damages and work out a plan for remediation.

Understanding The Types Of Water Involved In Water Damage

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Our highly trained technicians are ready to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your Bradenton property.

Water Damage In Bradenton Or Anna Marie Island

Understanding the differences in the types of water that are involved with water damage will help you when dealing with the cleanup. It is easy to think that all water causing damage is the same, but there are three separate classifications for it: clean water, gray water and black water.

Regardless of what type of water has caused the damage, there will always be a cleanup and restoration process that will need to be done afterward. The most important thing to accomplish is removing all the moisture and damp items quickly, so that mold cannot begin to flourish in its ideal environment.

No. 1: Clean Water

This water is considered “clean” and not the type to pose an immediate threat to your health. It is free of contaminants and can come from:

Broken water lines

Malfunctioning appliances

Toilet holding tanks

Snow melt and rainwater

Of the three different classifications of water, this is the easiest type of water damage to work with, as there are fewer microbes living in the water. However, after 48 hours and having contact with the building surfaces, clean water can move up to category two, which is gray water.

No. 2: Gray Water

In the case of gray water, damage cleanup and restoration can become a little more involved.

This water may pose a health risk, due to it containing slight amounts of chemical or biological contamination. This slight contamination in gray water means that it would need to be thoroughly treated before it is safe to consume.

Gray water is the type of water that can come from dishwashers, aquariums, showers, etc. Again, the 48-hour exposure time applies here as well, with gray water turning into black water if not treated.

No. 3: Black Water

Black water is the most hazardous of the three classifications, and it is considered to be highly contaminated with harmful chemicals and biological matter. This includes floodwaters containing soil and all sewage waters.

Sewage is contaminated with microbes, including bacteria, protozoans, molds, fungi and more, many of these can be harmful to humans.

Some of the diseases that can be transmitted by black water are:

Cholera

Typhoid

Hepatitis

Gastroenteritis-type illnesses

Just remember that when it comes to floods, any water should be treated as if it is black water since it picks up contaminants along its path.

The three classifications of floodwater are recognized by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Remediation Certification (IICRC), an organization that certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our technicians all study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration and are available to help determine the steps to take to get your home back to normal.

It doesn’t matter what type of water has caused damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of West Bradenton/Anna Maria (941) 792-7715, is here to help get the situation under control and make it "Like it never even happened." Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need emergency cleanup and restoration services.

Tips To Dealing With Water Damage In Your Bradenton Home

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

From a burst pipe to a malfunctioning dishwasher or storm damage, there are countless ways water damage can happen in your home.

While water damage can be an especially common issue for homeowners to deal with, there are plenty of ways you can help protect your home.

Ways to Protect Your Home

Water damage may not seem like much of a hassle for you to deal with, but drying out and cleaning up will prove to be tedious, not to mention there is a good possibility mold will follow. Mold is a very common side effect of water damage, as mold can begin to grow and flourish within 24–48 hours of moisture exposure.

When you begin to look for ways to protect your home, it may help you to break it down by areas of impact. These areas might include the basement, kitchen, bathroom, flooring and ceilings.

Preventing water damage in the basement begins by preventing any water seepage, which can be done by resealing vulnerable areas of the basement, ensuring that water drains away from your home and installing a backwater valve.

Your kitchen and bathrooms may experience water damage resulting from plumbing issues and appliance failures.

Make sure to regularly:

Inspect all appliances for issues with hoses and faucets

Check seals and caulking around showers and tubs, ensuring they are watertight

Know where the main shut-off valve is in your home

Don’t leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running

There are things you can do to protect the possessions in your home from water damage, but don’t be surprised if it is not always possible. Use waterproof bins to store items and keep items stored on shelves off of the floor—which is especially recommended when using your basement for storage.

Recovering From Water Damage

If your home does experience a water damage situation, you stand a good chance of salvaging anything that can be dried out within 48 hours.

Your first step should be to contact your insurance company and assess the extent of the water damage in your home as well as identify the type of water that is involved.

The types of water that are involved in water damage are:

Water from rain, condensation, leaky pipes, etc. is called “clean” water.

Slightly dirty water from dishwashers, washing machines, clean toilets, etc. is called “gray” water.

Water from sewage or serious flooding from nearby rivers, etc. is considered “black” water and this water can cause serious health problems.

Remove any wet objects from the home after a water damage disaster. Then dehumidify and dry your home out, followed by a thorough, disinfecting cleaning.

Pro tip: You can freeze wet books, photos and papers in a frost-free freezer to buy some extra time. This prevents mold and mildew from developing and causing more deterioration. Once able, you can remove them from the freezer and air-dry or fan-dry the pages.

It may seem like recovering from water damage is an overwhelming and slightly impossible task, but it doesn’t have to be.

You can call on the highly trained experts at SERVPRO of West Bradenton/Anna Maria Island (941) 792-7715, who are here to make it "Like it never even happened."

Understanding Water Damage In Your Bradenton or Anna Maria Island Home

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Understanding Water Damage
Water damage is something that many homeowners will face, with it being the third most common reason for homeowners to file a homeowners insurance claim.

It is important to know the difference between water damage and gradual water damage, and how it can impact insurance claims. Examples of gradual damage are ongoing situations that have been happening over time, such as plumbing issues in the walls that will cause damage to walls, ceilings or floors, or water damage caused by cracks in the foundation. Unfortunately, many gradual water damage situations are not covered by homeowners insurance, while storm-related water damage usually is.

SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help.

Plumbing Failures and Water Damage
According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), the leading causes of water damage are:

Plumbing supply system failures.

Per IBHS, plumbing supply system failures are the leading source of residential water losses and cost an average of $5,092 per incident after the deductible. It was also found that in homes 16 to 40 years of age,` this was a more frequent occurrence and made up a large group of supply system material failure claims.

Plumbing drain system failures.

This can occur when a sewer drain backs up and overflows into a home or from material breakdown issues. In their study, IBHS found that 52% of drain system failures were caused by sewer backups and 37% were related to material performance issues. IBHS also found that the average drain system failure was more expensive in southern states than in northern states.

Toilet failures.

Toilet failures fall second in line to plumbing supply system failures for residential water damage loss, and can be caused by a faulty fill valve or clogged drain lines. According to IBHS, toilet failures that occur on the first floor of a home resulted in more expensive claims than those that occurred in basements or upper floors.

Water heater failures.

If your water heater has reached its life expectancy, the tank begins to rust and corrode. This can result in leaking or bursting issues, and IBHS found that 69% of all water heater failures were the direct result of a slow leak or sudden burst and, on average, cost $4,444 per incident following the deductible.
Washing machine failures. Typically caused by supply hose failures, drain line failures and machine overflows, washing machine failures are one of the top 10 sources of residential water damage losses. Per IBHS, supply hose failures were responsible for over half of all washing machine-related losses.

Knowing who to call when you have water damage in your Bradenton or Anna Maria Island home.

SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria has trained, certified technicians to take care of your home. As leaders in the water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-water-damage condition.

SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria is just a call away (941)792-7715.

Is Your Home Trying to Tell You Something?

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

It can be unsettling to hear knocking, hammering or whistling coming from your walls. However, plumbing can get noisy as the years go by. You don't always have to suspect a pipe break when you hear an unusual noise in the wall. Check out the three reasons for noisy pipes below.  1. Momentum Changes: If you're running a shower and quickly close the faucet, you may hear a clanging in your pipes. This is caused by the water's rapid change in speed. While not necessarily a problem by itself, the vibrations caused by the hammering can actually lead to loose pipes or a pipe break in extreme circumstances. You may be able to fix the problem in two ways. First, try to tighten or replace your straps. Second, install an anti-hammer device. 
2. Obstructions: Blockages in your pipes can lead to a whistling sound whenever the water is forced past it. Distorted washers in valves, loose screws or sediment buildup could be a cause of an obstruction in your plumbing. You can fix the noise by locating where the whistling sound originates from, and then replacing the appropriate faucet washers and screws. If the blockage is somewhere within the pipe, you may have to worry about the possibility of a burst pipe should the obstruction grow. The best way to clean out the pipes is to call in a plumbing cleaning service. 
3. High Pressure: If the water pressure in your Bradenton, FL home is set too high, it can cause your pipes to become quite noisy. While the sound may be annoying, you should be more concerned about the potential problems it can cause. It may not cause a pipe burst, but it could damage your dishwasher, washing machine or other appliances. You can fix this issue by making sure your water pressure is set no higher than 80 pounds per square inch.  The pipes in your home may be noisy for a wide range of reasons. Some of the noises can even leave your plumbing vulnerable to a pipe break. It is important you fix a broken pipe as soon as you find the problem.  Water damage can be a serious problem for your home. Call the experts at SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria (941) 792-7715 if you have water damage. Our water removal and cleanup process also provides validation and documentation that your property is dry.  If your Bradenton property has been damaged by water caused by flooding or water leaks, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment to restore your property properly.

The Facts About Water Damage and Mold

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Highly trained specialists are ready to respond quickly to your water damage emergency. SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria (941) 792-7715

Water damage can be a costly mess and it can encourage the growth of mold on walls and floors. It may even be in areas that are not visible, in ductwork, attics and crawl spaces.  In these hidden areas you might not notice it. A musty odor is a sign that mold may be present. Mold can cause damage and lead to health problems, so it's important to deal with it quickly.

How do I identify a mold problem?

Check the air and surfaces in the area. If you notice a musty smell, then you have a mold problem. Additionally, different types of mold discolor surfaces with black and/or green specks. Look for mold in bathrooms, windows, crawl spaces, air conditioners, ventilation systems, leaky roofs, attics and basements. Why have I found mold in several areas?

All fungi, like mold, release spores that travel along air currents. Unless a mold-infested area is sealed off, the spores spread throughout a building.  

Why does mold grow in air ducts?
Poor duct maintenance and moisture from humidity or plumbing, wall or roof leaks give mold spores the perfect dark habitat for growth. The experienced team at SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria use the IICRC (gold standard) guidelines to remove any mold growth.  

Can I use bleach to remove mold? Mold spores have roots.  Liquid bleach is the wrong choice for several reasons: Bleach can't successfully penetrate all surfaces -- especially some porous materials -- and since it is wet it will help any missed mold regrow.

Worse yet, bleach can hide a deeply rooted mold problem.  Do I need additional testing if I already know that I have mold in my home after water damage?
Testing determines the type of mold and the amount of cleaning that must be done to completely restore an area. 

Should I use a DIY test kit after water damage?
Although DIY kits are inexpensive, they often provide false positive results. They also don't offer the data needed to determine the type of mold or the amount of spores in the air. Also, you need a CIH (Certified Industrial Hygienist) to interpret the results and they can not be responsible for determining samples that may not have been collect properly. How can I remove mold growth and spores from my home?

The best way is to bring in the trained technicians of SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria. They can evaluate the problem and perform the correct tasks to remove mold from the air and surfaces, clean the infested area and safeguard against future growth.

It's important to understand the damage water can do.

Confusion and misunderstanding surround the topic of mold and mold remediation. Some restoration businesses even make claims to remove all mold from a building. This is a fallacy. Mold spores occur naturally almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. These microscopic spores float along in the air and can enter a home or business through windows and HVAC systems. 

Consider these facts: Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
They are always present and only dangerous when reactivated by a high level of moisture.
Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed/stopped. Otherwise, the mold may return.

Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If you have questions about water damage or mold, give us a call at SERVPRO of West Bradenton /Anna Maria (941) 792-7715.

If Your Home or Business is Damaged By Water Do You Understand Your Coverage?

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

If an insurance company declines your application to cover water damage, it could still have a big impact on your insurance rates. (941) 792-7715

After experiencing water damage, you may be left wondering what your options are. In most cases, you should make sure that you fix all water damage as quickly as possible. Once you have done this, you can then proceed to file for claims. Fixing your home immediately can prevent problems from getting worse due to mold or decomposition. However, afterward you will still need to deal with the consequences of the bills. For some homeowners, it may be possible for insurance to cover some of the losses. Many homeowners insurance policies do not always come packaged with flood insurance. To provide assistance, this will take a look at the differences between flood insurance and water damage claims. Water Damage Claims
Your first impulse is probably to call your insurance company. Hopefully, you haven’t done this yet. There is a big difference between water damage and flood insurance. Water damage can be caused by storms, accidents, or bursting pipes. These claims are only valid when water damage is associated with water that did not first touch the ground (such as lakes, ponds, & rivers). This means that water coming from a regular thunderstorm or tornado, plumbing, or appliance is usually covered under water damage claims. In contrast, a flooded lake or stream that inundates a person’s home is not covered.  Flood Insurance
It is important to keep in mind that flood insurance is a special form of insurance contract. It does not automatically come with a standard homeowners insurance policy. In almost all cases, individuals have to purchase   flood insurance separately from homeowners insurance. Since many homeowners are not aware of this, homeowners are often outraged when they discover that their insurance contract does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is generally available for just a few dollars each month. Without this insurance, homeowners can not expect to have any damage associated with flooding covered under their homeowners insurance policy.  Implications of Denied Coverage
If an insurance company declines your application to cover water damage, it could still have a big impact on your monthly insurance rates. Insurance companies can take advantage of information in your claims application to increase your monthly insurance bills. It is not uncommon to see insurance companies viewing homes that have experienced flood damage as high risk. As a result, they have the right to appropriately increase your monthly rates according to this information. The reality that your insurance rates could increase after being denied coverage makes it even more important to understand the difference between flood damage and water damage claims. Many individual homeowners make the mistake of filing claims for costs associated with flood damage, only to find that these costs are not covered. When the bill comes the next month, there is nothing that homeowners can do to bring their rates back down. Therefore, it is important to only file a claim if flood damage is explicitly covered in the homeowners insurance contract. In some cases, it may even be recommended for homeowners to work with an attorney to ensure that it is appropriate to file a water damage claim. 
SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (941) 792-7715
Remember we work with your insurance.
For a stress free claims process, SERVPRO can help manage the insurance paperwork and process.
If you have questions about your coverage, we strongly advise you to contact your insurance agent and review your policy. What incidents and perils are you covered for? What are your deductibles? At SERVPRO of West Bradenton / Anna Maria we are here to help you in any we can.

If Your Business Has Water Damage Do You Know What To Do?

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a significant problem for a business owner. Unfortunately, many business owners don't know how to handle this type of property damage. However, learning more about the issue can empower you to take the steps necessary to get your commercial property back in pristine condition

Water Damage Basics

Some of the possible causes of water damage:

Poor Ventilation

Leaking Pipes

Excessive Condensation

High Humidity

Damp Utility Closets

Roof Leaks

Damp Carpets

Flooding

Fire Sprinklers

Once a water damage has transpired on your property, you'll need to determine the following three things:
Where the water came from?
What is the extent of the damage?
How long has the devastation has been in place?

Now it's time to get the right team.

When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO® West Bradenton / Anna Maria professionals respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. They closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO® professionals have the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.” With over 1,700 Franchises nationwide, there’s a SERVPRO® expert nearby and ready to serve you.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources
As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO® of West Bradenton / Anna Maria is strategically located to respond quickly to your water emergency event. We have been serving the Bradenton community for over 25 years! Call us SERVPRO® of West Bradenton / Anna Maria  (941) 792-7715.

If You Experience Flood Damage, Call The Professionals

6/30/2019 (Permalink)

No one wants to spend their time dealing with flood damage. There are some practical measures that he to reduce the flood and water damage in your Anna Maria home. Before you leave, place furniture, appliances, electronics, and family memorabilia in boxes several feet off the floor level to prevent water damage. Secure food in plastic trash bags to keep them dry and avoid contamination. Shore up all openings to your structure the best you can. Every effort you make to protect your property from rising flood waters, will save you time and money during the water damage restoration process that will occur.
Always have a plan for your pets, should you face a deluge. For instance, if you have to stay in a hotel, at someone's home or in a shelter because of flood damage to your home, they may not accommodate your pets. Be willing to drive your pet to a facility even in the next town or city if need be. Or have a friend as a backup plan on your list that you can call who would be prepared to take your pet. If you leave your pets at your home, they can feel the stress and cause more additional damage to your home. Also, they are potentially at risk if flood waters rise and you cannot return home for several days to feed them.
It is important that you shut off the electricity, especially in the areas of your house that are more prone to flooding. If you are planning on evacuating the premises, turn off the electric at its source, the main electrical panel. Do not attempt to deal with this if there is standing water.
Call for help from professionals. SERVPRO® West Bradenton / Anna Maria  (941) 792-7715.There is a very high risk of sustaining an electrical shock or worse by you, family members or someone working in a flooded area of your home. If the water has reached the level of the electrical sockets with live current, at best the circuit breaker will short the circuit. Be prepared to call in SERVPRO® when the water recedes for water extraction, drying, cleaning, and sanitizing your property. Floodwaters can transport sewage, chemicals, fertilizers, and other substances that are harmful. Electrical appliances such as the furnace, freezer, washer, and dryer can pose real safety hazards during flooding. Unplug them if possible. Take emergency contact information with you to keep family members and friends informed of your situation. Don't forget the chargers for your mobile devices. Utilize emergency media messages for information and The American Red Cross for shelter. SERVPRO® is an industry leader in providing post-flooding restoration for commercial and residential properties. With our industry leading equipment, specially formulated cleaning and sanitizing products, and highly trained technicians who are instructed beyond the IICRC standards, we can help. From a quick emergency response to water extraction and drying and cleaning, we can restore your water damaged home to pre-flood condition "Like it never even happened."
Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources
As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO® West Bradenton / Anna Maria strategically located to respond quickly to your water or flood damage event. We proudly serve our local communities of Bradenton, Longboat Key, Palmetto, Anna Maria Island, and Bradenton Beach.  Call us for immediate response to mold, fire, and water damage 24/7 at (941) 792-7715