The Crucial Role of Maintenance in Preventing Winter Water Damage

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

As the cold, rainy months approach, it's essential to take proactive measures to safeguard your home and business from potential water damage. Neglecting maintenance during this season can lead to a host of issues, including leaks, flooding, and mold growth. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of regular upkeep and offer tips on preventing water damage.

1. Gutters & Downspout Maintenance –

Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water overflow, causing damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. Regularly clean gutters to ensure proper drainage and consider installing gutter guards to prevent debris buildup.

2. Roof Inspection –

A well-maintained roof is your first line of defense against water intrusion. Check for missing or damaged shingles, and promptly address any issues to prevent leaks. Consider hiring a professional for a comprehensive roof inspection before the rainy season.

3. Seal Windows & Doors –

Inspect the seals around windows and doors for gaps or cracks that could allow water infiltration. Use weather-stripping or caulk to seal any openings and keep the cold and wet weather outside.

4. Check for Leaks Indoors –

Inspect your plumbing, including faucets, pipes, and appliances, for any signs of leaks. A small drip can quickly escalate into a major problem, leading to water damage and potential mold growth. Address leaks promptly to avoid costly repairs.

5. Maintain Landscaping –

Ensure that the grading around your home or business directs water away from the foundation. Poor drainage can lead to basement flooding and structural damage. Consider installing a French drain or extending downspouts to divert water away from the building.

6. Inspect the Foundation –

Regularly inspect your home or business foundation for cracks or signs of water seepage. Seal any cracks with an appropriate sealant to prevent water from entering and causing structural damage.

7. Sump Pump Maintenance –

If your property has a sump pump, make sure it is in good working condition. Test the pump regularly, and consider installing a battery backup system to ensure functionality during power outages.

8. Winterizing Outdoor Plumping –

Prevent frozen pipes by disconnecting and draining outdoor hoses. If applicable, shut off exterior water valves, and insulate pipes in unheated areas, such as basements and crawl spaces.

Taking the time to perform routine maintenance can save you from the headaches and expenses associated with water damage during the cold, rainy months. If, despite your best efforts, you find yourself dealing with water damage, remember that SERVPRO of Lacey is available 24/7/365 for emergency water remediation services. Call us at (253) 735-2919, and let our team of experts help restore your home or business to its pre-damage condition. Stay dry and protected this winter!

A Comprehensive Guide to Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

As the calendar flips to November, we find ourselves in the last month of hurricane season. it's crucial to remember that while the peak of hurricane activity may have passed, the potential for storms and their aftermath still lingers. This blog post will provide you with valuable information on how to stay safe during this time and what to do if you experience a hurricane or flooding.

Pre-Storm:

One of the most critical aspects of hurricane preparedness is staying informed. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, and if a hurricane or severe storm is expected, monitor updates from reliable sources such as the National Hurricane Center, your local government, and news outlets. Make sure to have a battery-powered weather radio on hand in case of power outages.

Create an Emergency Kit

Having an emergency kit ready can make a world of difference during a hurricane. Include essential items like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, personal hygiene products, and important documents. Don't forget to stock up on any necessary prescription medications and pet supplies if you have pets.

Prepare Your Home

Securing your home is vital to your safety during a hurricane. Reinforce windows and doors, trim tree branches that could become projectiles, and clear your gutters. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider investing in sandbags and flood barriers to protect your property.

Evacuation Plan

If you live in an evacuation zone, be prepared to leave when authorities issue evacuation orders. Have a plan in place for where you will go, and make arrangements for your pets if you have them. It's essential to leave early to avoid traffic congestion and ensure your safety.

Communication

Keep lines of communication open with your family and friends. Make sure everyone knows your whereabouts and how to reach you. Establish a central point of contact in case family members get separated during the evacuation.

Stay Safe During the Storm

During the hurricane, stay indoors and away from windows. If flooding occurs, move to higher ground, and never attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters. The power may go out, so use flashlights instead of candles to prevent fires. Charge your phones and have a portable charger ready to stay connected.

Post-Hurricane Actions:

After the hurricane passes, it's not time to let your guard down. Be cautious of downed power lines, flooding, and debris. Check on your loved ones, especially the elderly and those with special needs. If you evacuated, wait for authorities to declare it safe to return home.

Stay Informed

After the hurricane has passed, continue to stay informed about local conditions and updates. Keep your weather radio or other communication devices handy to receive updates on road closures, emergency services, and relief efforts. This information is invaluable as you assess the situation and plan your next steps.

Contact Loved Ones

Let your friends and family know that you're safe and sound. Keep your cell phone charged and use it to communicate with your loved ones. A simple text message can ease their worries and keep the lines of communication open.

Document the Damage

Take photographs and videos of the damage to your property, both inside and outside. This documentation can be vital when dealing with insurance claims and seeking assistance. Make sure to document any damage to vehicles as well.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process. Be prepared to provide them with the documentation you collected. If you're unsure about your policy's coverage, ask your insurance agent for clarification.

Assess Your Home's Safety

If you're allowed back into your home, assess its safety and the extent of the damage. Secure any openings to prevent further damage, such as covering broken windows and tarping damaged roofs. Take steps to remove water and begin drying out your home to prevent mold growth by calling SERVPRO of Lacey at (253) 735-2919.

Seek Assistance

If you're in need of immediate assistance, contact local emergency services or relief organizations. They can provide you with information on shelters, food distribution, and medical services. Local government agencies may also provide resources for disaster recovery.

Reach Out to FEMA

In the aftermath of a major disaster, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may offer assistance to affected individuals and communities. Contact FEMA to inquire about the available aid and how to apply for it if you or your family need it.

Begin Cleanup and Repairs

Once your safety is ensured, and you've taken the necessary steps to document and assess the damage, you can call SERVPRO of Lacey to begin cleaning up and essential repairs. Keep all receipts and records of expenses related to recovery efforts, as these may be important for insurance and assistance claims.

Experiencing a hurricane or flooding can be a challenging and emotional ordeal. However, by following these steps after the storm and calling SERVPRO of Lacey, you can begin the process of recovery and rebuilding. Remember to stay safe, document the damage, and seek assistance when needed. With the support of your community, the appropriate agencies, and SERVPRO, you can recover from the aftermath of a hurricane and look forward to better days ahead.

Rebuilding After the Blaze: The Crucial Role of SERVPRO in Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

10/25/2023 (Permalink)

Fire is a devastating force that can leave a trail of destruction in its wake, especially when it strikes commercial buildings. In the aftermath of such a disaster, the process of restoration and recovery is paramount. This blog post will explore the importance of hiring SERVPRO to remediate all damage caused by a fire to your commercial building.

Immediate Response and Expertise

One of the key advantages of choosing SERVPRO of Lacey is their ability to provide an immediate response. After a fire, time is of the essence, and their team of professionals is trained to act swiftly to minimize further damage. They bring with them a wealth of knowledge and expertise that is crucial for an effective response.

Assessment and Planning

The restoration process begins with a thorough assessment of the damage. SERVPRO of Lacey will evaluate the extent of the fire, smoke, and water damage to your commercial property. Following this assessment, a comprehensive restoration plan is developed, outlining the steps needed to bring your building back to its pre-fire condition.

Specialized Equipment and Techniques

SERVPRO of Lacey is equipped with the latest technology and specialized equipment designed for fire damage restoration. They use advanced techniques to clean, repair, and restore various materials and surfaces in your commercial building. This includes addressing the challenges posed by smoke and soot residue, as well as the water damage resulting from firefighting efforts.

Water Extraction and Drying

Water damage is often an overlooked consequence of battling commercial fires. SERVPRO of Lacey is well-versed in water extraction and drying techniques to prevent mold growth, structural damage, and other associated issues. Their proactive approach ensures that all water is efficiently removed from your property.

Smoke and Soot Removal

The lingering smell of smoke and soot can be pervasive and challenging to eliminate. SERVPRO of Lacey employs industry-best practices to thoroughly clean and deodorize your commercial building. This includes the use of air purifiers and ozone generators to improve indoor air quality.

Content Restoration

In addition to the building itself, the contents of your commercial property may also suffer damage. SERVPRO of Lacey provides content restoration services, helping salvage and restore valuable items and professional documentation that would otherwise be lost.

Faster Recovery, Less Business Disruption

By enlisting SERVPRO of Lacey's services, you expedite the recovery process. Minimizing downtime for your business is vital, and their expertise and efficient restoration methods help get you back on your feet sooner, reducing disruption to your operations.

Peace of Mind

Perhaps the most significant benefit of hiring SERVPRO of Lacey is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that a team of professionals is managing the restoration process allows you to focus on other aspects of getting your business back to normal.

Fire damage to a commercial building can be a daunting experience, but with the expertise and support of SERVPRO of Lacey, you can confidently address and remediate all damage caused by a fire. Their prompt response, specialized equipment, and proven techniques make them an invaluable partner in the restoration process. Don't underestimate the importance of professional fire damage restoration—your commercial property and business's future depend on it.

Lacey Businesses: We Specialize in Water and Flood Damage, Cleanup and Restoration

10/13/2023 (Permalink)

Service Technician on a commercial water damage job site

Floods are a significant threat to commercial businesses, often resulting in extensive water damage, financial losses, and even long-term issues like mold growth. In this blog post, we'll delve into the critical aspects of flood prevention and what to do if your commercial business experiences a flood. When disaster strikes, turn to SERVPRO of Lacey at 1-800-SERVPRO, the leading experts in commercial remediation and restoration.

Flood Prevention: Safeguarding Your Business

Preventing a flood is the most effective strategy to protect your commercial property. Here are some essential flood prevention measures:

1. Risk Assessment: Identify flood-prone areas in and around your business premises. Analyze local flood maps to understand your property's vulnerability.

2. Elevate Electrical Systems: Elevate critical electrical systems, such as fuse boxes and circuit breakers, to prevent water damage in the event of a flood.

3. Sump Pumps and Flood Barriers: Install sump pumps in basements or vulnerable areas to drain excess water quickly. Additionally, consider using flood barriers to keep water out.

4. Secure Utilities: Elevate heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units, as well as other essential utilities, to minimize potential damage during a flood.

5. Proper Drainage: Keep gutters, downspouts, and drains clear of debris, ensuring that water is directed away from your property.

6. Emergency Ready Plan: Contact SERVPRO of Lacey to create an emergency ready plan and ensure all employees are aware of it. This plan should include evacuation procedures and contact information for emergency services.

What to Do If Your Business Experiences a Flood

Despite taking preventive measures, floods can still occur. It's crucial to act swiftly to minimize damage and get your business back on track. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Safety First: Prioritize the safety of employees and visitors. Evacuate the premises if necessary.

2. Stop the Source: If the flooding is caused by a burst pipe or malfunctioning appliance, shut off the water source if it's safe to do so.

3. Contact SERVPRO: In the event of a flood, time is of the essence. Call SERVPRO at 1-800-SERVPRO for immediate assistance. They are the leading experts in commercial remediation, specializing in comprehensive restoration services for businesses.

4. Document Damage: Take photographs and detailed notes of the damage for insurance claims and records.

5. Initial Cleanup: While waiting for professional assistance, begin the cleanup process by removing standing water and salvaging critical business assets and documents.

The Ongoing Threat: Mold Remediation

In the aftermath of a flood, mold can quickly become a serious concern. Mold growth poses health risks and can further damage your property. SERVPRO of Lacey, with its extensive experience in mold remediation, will ensure your business is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to prevent the growth and spread of mold.

Flood prevention is the first line of defense for safeguarding your commercial business against the devastating impact of floods. Nevertheless, if your business experiences a flood, acting promptly, ensuring safety, and engaging professionals like SERVPRO is essential. Their expertise in water damage restoration, flood remediation, and mold remediation will help you recover and restore your business "Like it never even happened". When disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Lacey at 1-800-SERVPRO, the leading experts in commercial remediation and restoration. Don't wait; protect your business, your assets, and the safety of your employees today.

About SERVPRO of Lacey

Our team is proud to be a part of these amazing communities and can be there for you whether you live in one of the above locations or anywhere in the country. We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial properties after fire, smoke or water damage and can mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. 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. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO Team Friermuth. If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today!

Restoring Your Belongings: The Importance of Content Cleaning in Fire Damage Restoration

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

A fire in your home or office can be devastating, causing significant damage to the structure and contents of the building. When dealing with fire damage, one of the most critical tasks is content cleaning. Content cleaning refers to the process of cleaning and restoring the items within the property that have been affected by smoke and fire damage. This is an essential step in the fire damage restoration process, and it requires specialized knowledge and expertise.

The first step in content cleaning is to assess the extent of the damage. This involves a thorough inspection of all items in the property to determine the level of smoke and fire damage they have sustained. Some items may be salvageable, while others may need to be disposed of due to the severity of the damage. Once this assessment is complete, the cleaning process can begin.

The cleaning process involves several steps, including debris removal, cleaning, deodorizing, and restoration. Debris removal involves the removal of any damaged items that cannot be salvaged. Cleaning involves the use of specialized equipment and cleaning agents to remove soot and smoke residue from the items. Deodorizing involves the use of specialized deodorizers to remove any lingering smoke odors from the items. Finally, restoration involves repairing or restoring any damaged items that can be salvaged.

One of the challenges of content cleaning is that different items require different cleaning methods. For example, fabrics and textiles require a different cleaning process than electronics or wood furniture. This is why it's important to work with a professional content cleaning company that has experience with fire damage restoration.

Another challenge of content cleaning is that smoke and soot can penetrate deeply into the fibers and surfaces of items, making them difficult to clean. This is why specialized equipment and cleaning agents are required to remove the smoke and soot effectively. A professional content cleaning company will have access to this equipment and will know how to use it properly.

In addition to content cleaning, fire damage restoration also involves structural cleaning and restoration. This includes repairing or replacing damaged walls, floors, and ceilings, as well as addressing any water damage that may have occurred due to firefighting efforts.

In conclusion, content cleaning is a critical part of the fire damage restoration process. It involves the cleaning and restoration of the items within the property that have been affected by smoke and fire damage. This process requires specialized knowledge and expertise, and it's important to work with a professional content cleaning company to ensure that the job is done correctly. With the right team of professionals on your side, you can recover from fire damage and get back to your normal life as soon as possible.

Ceiling Water damage around a light fixture.

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage from a pipe break occurs, light fixtures could cause damage or potential for fire.

Water damage is one of the most common reasons for calling in a professional restoration company. Water dripping from your light fixtures is an especially serious problem that can lead to mold growth, mildew and other issues. The first thing to do if you suspect you have water dripping from your light fixtures is to determine what's causing it. As soon as possible, call SERVPRO of Lacey.

What to do?

If you see water dripping from your light fixtures, it's important to act quickly. Water damage can be serious and even cause mold growth if not taken care of immediately. That's why we recommend hiring a professional like SERVPRO to help you with your problem.

SERVPRO of Lacey is the best company for the job because they have experienced technicians who know how to handle these situations without damaging anything else in your home or business space. They'll also make sure that all traces of moisture are removed before leaving so that there isn't any chance for mold.

What you need to know about the plumbing in your home

Plumbing is a lot more complicated than it looks. In addition to the pipes that carry water through your home, there are also vents and drains that need to be kept clear of debris so they can function correctly. The location of these components varies depending on whether you have a slab or foundation-style house; if you don't know what kind of structure you live in, check with an expert before starting any work yourself.

If there's one thing every homeowner should know about plumbing. It can cause serious damage if not handled properly by professionals who know what they're doing. That's why we recommend hiring someone if your problem isn't too severe. For example, if only one fixture is leaking or dripping water onto the floor below (as opposed to multiple fixtures). If this doesn't seem like something worth tackling yourself (or if it seems like too big an undertaking), contact us today.

How to prevent problems with your light fixtures

• Ensure that the electrical connections are tight.
• Replace any worn or damaged light fixtures.
• Check for leaks in your light fixtures by turning off the power at the circuit breaker and looking for water stains on the ceiling or walls near where your lights are installed. If you find a leak, turn off the power and contact a professional for assistance before attempting to repair it yourself

Water damage can be a serious problem

Water damage is a serious problem, and it's important to get professionals on the scene right away. SERVPRO is a full-service restoration company with trained professionals who can help with any water damage problem.

We have the equipment and expertise to handle any size disaster. We also work with insurance companies to make sure that you don't have to stress about making up for lost time or money while your home or business recovers.

If you have water dripping from your light fixtures, it's important to act quickly. If left untreated, water damage can cause serious problems in your home or office. SERVPRO of Lacey has the expertise and equipment needed to get the job done right--and we'll work with your insurance company so that you don't have to!

What can be salvaged after a House Fire?

2/8/2023 (Permalink)

When you need professional help after a fire, give SERVPRO a call!

When the fire department leaves the scene after putting out a house fire, it’s tempting to think that your property is salvageable. However, even if the flames have been extinguished and the smoke cleared away, smoke and soot damage can still be an issue.

What to do after a house fire in Washington

If you have experienced a house fire, the first thing to do is call your insurance company. After accessing the damage it is time for a professional to come out to determine the loss and what can be salvaged from it. Only then should you start trying to clean up after a fire in Washington.

It is important for homeowners to keep their area safe and secure while waiting for professionals to arrive. As the professionals arrive, the first thing they will do is access the property.

Smoke and Soot Damage

Smoke and soot damage is the most common form of fire damage. It can be caused by a number of things, including, burning wood, paper or other organic materials like upholstery. Smoke and soot damage can cause several problems for people who have suffered this type of fire loss. Smoke stains will turn walls black even after the fire has been put out.

Assessing the Damage

Assess the damage. Take photos of everything that was damaged by fire, including walls, ceilings, furniture and appliances. Document all of your belongings so you can make an insurance claim later on if necessary (i.e., serial numbers for electronic equipment). Keep a record of any insurance claims or repair estimates as well as receipts for items purchased after the fire occurred.

Personal items

As you are sifting through the remains of your home, you may be wondering what can be salvaged. The good news is that there are a few things that can be cleaned and restored to their original condition. Personal items like photos, jewelry, or other valuables are especially important to salvage because they aren’t easily replaced if lost in the fire.

It’s best for these items to be cleaned by hand rather than using machines like washing machines or dryers because this will help preserve their integrity. You can also use gentle detergent on them without causing damage, but avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia-based cleaners when cleaning these items.

The Restoration process

The restoration process depends on how extensive the damage is. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove all damaged items from the home and replace them with new items. This can be an expensive proposition and should be considered carefully before moving forward with this option.

If you don't have a lot of money or if you feel that removing everything would take too long, consider hiring professional cleaning services to do the job for you. They will know what kinds of chemicals should be used to clean different surfaces and materials so that they come out looking as good as new again!

Cleaning Water-Damaged items

As soon as you can, remove items that have been exposed to the fire and water damage. Use a wet/dry vacuum or clean mop to pick up water-damaged items. If you don't have access to these, use plastic bags and paper towels to clean up the mess on your floor or carpeting.

Use a sponge with mild detergent (like dish soap) and warm water to clean any nonporous materials. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with paper towels or let air dry in the sun if possible (this will take days).

Nonporous materials include metal, glass, stone and ceramic surfaces—in other words, anything made of rock or glass!

Cleaning Smoke-Damaged items

You can start cleaning your items as soon as you can safely do so.

• Vacuum each item to remove any loose ash or soot and avoid spreading it around. Use a soft brush to loosen any charred debris that is stuck on the item, then vacuum again to pick up the debris.
• Wash items in the washing machine using cold water and mild detergent, then dry them in the dryer on low heat. If you don't have access to a washing machine or dryer at home, take your clothes and linens to a laundromat or consider donating them directly after they've been cleaned at home.
• Use dehumidifiers in rooms where there was heavy smoke damage and fans in other areas of your house until all traces of smoke are removed from these spaces.

When the fire department leaves, it’s time to contact your insurance company and find professional help.

When the fire department leaves, it’s time to contact your insurance company and find professional help. A professional cleaning service will give you an accurate assessment of what can be salvaged after the fire.

The best way to deal with the aftermath of a fire is to get help from professionals who can give you an accurate assessment of what can be salvaged. The insurance company will also send their own team of experts to assess the damage and make recommendations on how best to proceed.

Advice on Fire Safety for Your Valuable Items

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Install a working smoke detector

Advice on Fire Safety for Your Valuable Items

If you have valuable items in your home, you may be worried about what would happen to them in the event of a fire. It's only natural to want to protect your valuables against damage or loss, and there are steps that you can take to do just that. Here are some tips for protecting your home and possessions against fire damage.

Keep an Inventory

Keeping track of your valuables can be as simple or as detailed as you want it to be. If you're just starting out, take photos of all the items and save them in a folder on your computer or phone. Then, make a list of every item and include photos and serial numbers (if possible). This is especially important if any items were gifts from family members or friends—you'll want their sentimental value documented so that you don't lose track of who gave them to you.

You can also use spreadsheets for this process; some people find it easier or more fun to keep track of their stuff by using Excel or Google Sheets to create lists, categories, and checklists. Many apps exist that let users keep accurate records of their belongings; we recommend Evernote (which also offers two cents off per gallon when it's used at BP stations) because it lets users scan barcodes into the system so they don't have to type everything manually!

Make Sure Your Home is Protected From Fire

You can help your home protect you by taking the following steps:

• Install a working smoke detector.
• Have an escape plan in place and be sure to have a meeting place outside of the building.
• Buy a fire extinguisher that suits your needs and stick it somewhere easy to reach in case of emergency, like near the kitchen or close to any pets' crates.
• Keep a first aid kit handy for minor cuts, scrapes, burns and bruises that may result from firefighting activities.
• Keep clutter under control in rooms where it collects (like closets) so that if there is an outbreak of flames due to an accident or lightning strike nearby, they will be able to move freely through areas without having too many obstacles blocking their way out through doorways--and away from danger!

Get Your Valuables Appraised

It is important to get an appraisal before a fire or other disaster. You will want to be able to discuss the value of your possessions with your insurance company so that you can receive proper coverage. If you hire a professional appraiser, they will be able to help determine the value of both individual items and collectibles as well as whole collections. You can also perform this task on your own if you are particularly knowledgeable about antiques and collectibles in general. It's never too early to start thinking about how best to prepare for disaster recovery!

Take Photos of Your Valuables

When you take photos of your valuables, it's not just about making sure that when you put down a book to go look something up online, that you don't forget what exactly made this book so precious to begin with. It's also about helping yourself remember the stories behind each item—and even more than that, it helps others understand why these things matter.

Store Your Important Documents Digitally

With traditional paper documents, you have a range of options for safety. You can store them in a fireproof safe, but that doesn't do you much good if they're destroyed by water or smoke, or if the safe itself is damaged. You could also store them in a secure cabinet with a lock, but this isn't always practical depending on where you live (for example, many apartments don't allow access to their cabinets).

If your documents are important enough to keep on paper rather than digitize them and save them online somewhere else (whether it's an online storage service like Dropbox or Google Drive), then one way to protect them from fire would be to scan or digitize the documents yourself. This way there is no worry about damage from water or smoke inhalation when taking out the saved files after a fire has been extinguished. 

Another option is using cloud storage services such as Dropbox and Google Drive which allows users easily share files between different devices without needing any technical knowledge whatsoever! This means once something gets uploaded onto these platforms they're automatically backed up elsewhere so even if something happens at home then someone else could get access via another device anywhere else around the world.

Keep Valuables in a Safe Place

It is important to keep your jewelry and other valuables in a safe place. To ensure that they are protected from both fire and water damage, consider storing them in a safe or drawer.

Keep your valuables away from fireplaces and radiators, as well as windows, doors, and vents. If you have children at home who might be tempted to play with these items when they're not supervised, it's best if you store them out of reach or lock them up somewhere only an adult can access them.

A Few Steps to Take Now

A fire can be devastating, and it's important to take the steps necessary to protect your valuables.

• Make sure your valuables are insured. If you don't already have coverage, talk to your insurance provider about adding it as soon as possible. A good policy will cover lost items due to a fire, but only if they're properly protected beforehand.
• Take photos of all of your possessions, including family heirlooms or sentimental items that might be harder for an insurer to value on their own (such as jewelry). Photos will help you remember what was lost in case there's any confusion later on down the road.

The best way to protect your valuables is by taking the steps as soon as possible and making sure that you have a plan in place for what happens if your home does catch on fire. If you don’t have insurance, then there are still things that can be done to minimize damage from fires such as keeping valuables out of reach of children or pets who could easily knock them over while playing around the house.

Can Your Water-Damaged Hardwood Floor be Saved?

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

If your flooring is damaged by water damage call SERVPRO of Lacey.

Can Your Water-Damaged Hardwood Floor be Saved?

Water is one of the most common causes of damage to hardwood floors. However, it’s not always easy to tell if a water-damaged hardwood floor can be saved. The good news is that there are plenty of factors that will help you determine if your floor can be saved or not. In this blog post, we'll discuss where the water damage came from and what kind of floors might have been damaged by it so you can figure out your next steps for getting your home back in shape after a flood or leak!

Can You Save Your Laminate Flooring?

If your laminate flooring has been damaged by water, don't worry! It's not too late to repair it.

If you have a small amount of damage, simply wipe up any standing water and then use a mop to dry the area. If there is more extensive damage, you may need to remove the damaged pieces and replace them with new ones.

When replacing a piece of laminate flooring, make sure that you use a similar-sized piece from a similar brand and color. To match up the old pieces with their replacements, use an awl or other thin metal tool as a guide for your new pieces.

What About Your Engineered Wood Floors?

If your engineered wood floors are made from MDF or medium-density fiberboard, then they should be saved. These floors are extremely durable and can be sanded many times over. This is one of the reasons why they're so popular among homeowners who want to do-it-yourself flooring projects.

However, unlike hardwood floors that can be refinished with polyurethane and continue to look good for years afterwards, engineered wood flooring cannot take repeated coats of polyurethane. Instead, you'll need to apply a stain or finish that will penetrate into the fibers of the board itself and resist wearing away through friction.

How to Refinish Your Solid Hardwood Floor

If your hardwood floor is damaged beyond repair, you’ll need to remove the damaged wood and then refinish the entire floor.

To prepare for a refinishing project, you will have to remove all furniture and other items from the room. After removing all debris from the room, sweep up any remaining dust with an old broom handle or push broom attachment on your vacuum cleaner before beginning work on removing old finish from your solid hardwood flooring

Call A Professional

It’s often impossible to tell how much damage has been done until the water has been removed and the floor has dried. A professional will be able to assess your situation, determine what course of action is required, and recommend the best way for you to move forward.

In addition, a professional will know how best to remove all of the water from your flooring before it can cause any further damage. For example, if you try to use a vacuum or steam mop on your own—which are generally not recommended methods—you could risk scratching or damaging your hardwood floors instead of drying them properly. A professional will also be trained on how long they should wait between removing excess moisture from their floors and refinishing them so that they don’t warp because too much time has gone by between these steps.

Don’t be scared off by the thought of water damage to your flooring. With a little education and some expert help, you can save your floors and get them looking like new again.

How Do I Flush A Water Heater?

11/3/2022 (Permalink)

Flushing a water heater is a process that takes time and patience.

How Do I Flush A Water Heater?

If you're like most people, the first time you ever flushed a water heater, it was because something went wrong. Maybe you left the faucet running and flooded your bathroom. Maybe you forgot to turn off a pipe after doing some plumbing work. Or maybe you got too excited about a new home improvement project only to find out that your water heater is actually smaller than expected. Regardless of the reason, here's what to do if you need to flush your water heater:

Before you being, turn the power off to the water heater.

To turn off the power, you need to turn off the breaker that supplies power to your water heater. You may have noticed this when you first turned on your circuit breakers after installing new electrical outlets or switches—there were two separate boxes next to each other, one labeled "power" and the other labeled with a number (e.g., 120V). This is because there are actually two different kinds of electricity: alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). AC flows back and forth between positive and negative while DC flows in one direction only.

This is an important step. Turning off the power ensures your safety and protects the machinery. 

Step 1: Turn off the water heater and water supply

The first thing to do is turn off the water heater and water supply.

To turn off a gas-powered water heater, you must first turn off its pilot light by pressing down on the knob until it clicks. Then, open up the gas valve cover and turn off any valves that are marked "gas" or "pilot." Finally, look for a lever that says "on/off," which should be located near where you turned off your pilot light. Push this lever towards you (so it is perpendicular to your main burner) in order to shut down your heating source entirely.

Next, you need to find out where your hot and cold water lines connect to your house's plumbing system so that they can be shut off confidently without causing damage or leaks anywhere else in your home's water system. This can vary depending on what kind of equipment was installed when they built out this part of their house - so don't worry if some connections are harder than others! Just keep trying different ones until something works! 

Step 2: Connect a garden hose to the drain valve.

You will need to have a garden hose long enough to reach all the way inside the drain valve. Attach the other end of your hose to your drain, and then turn on your water heater.

Step 3: Run hot water and open the drain valve.

Now, open the drain valve to let water out of the tank. The hot water will start flowing into your sink or tub and you'll be able to see if there are any problems with your heater as it empties. Be careful not to get burned by hot water!

Run hot water until the water coming out of the drain valve is clear and free of sediment. When you've flushed your tank well enough, turn off the tap at its end and close it back up again.

Step 4: Turn the water supply back on to flush the tank.

• Turn the water supply back on.
• Run water through the tank until you see it start to flow out of your faucet.
• Close the drain valve (on older models, this is usually a large brass lever or knob) and fill up your tank with fresh water.

Step 5: Fill the tank and turn on the water heater.

Before you can turn the water heater on, you need to make sure that the tank is full of water. This will take some time, so be patient. When the tank is full, you can turn on the water heater.

Hopefully, we’ve given you a few ideas on how to flush your water heater. Remember that it is a process that takes time and patience, so don’t get frustrated if things don’t go according to plan at first! With enough practice and perseverance though, anyone can do this job themselves—and save money in the process.