Recent Water Damage Posts

Keep this in Mind... it’s the Water You don't See

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment Call us today at 662-690-6502

Even minimal water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. 

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO has the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of Tupelo, SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. 

Here are a few of the tools we use.

  • Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls.
  • Thermo hygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, we can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
  • Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO to monitor the drying process.
  • Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor-causing particles.
  • Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate.

The bottom line is that SERVPRO of Tupelo, SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Call us today at 662-690-6502

Cupping, Peaking, and Buckling Wood Floors in Your Home or Business

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

diagram of a wood floor buckling Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

Cupping can happen in your home or business as a result of an increased moisture content that saturates the bottom of the boards.

Wood Damage from Water, Age, or Installation

Having wooden floors or engineered hardwood flooring can be a challenge even when things are going well. It is strongly advised that people who want this type of flooring have a professional install them. Wooden floors and engineered hardwood flooring can develop issues that may alter the appearance and shape of the wood. There are more things to be concerned with in addition to water damage when caring for wood floors and engineered hardwood flooring. The most common problems are buckling, peaking, and cupping.

Moisture Damage

Even if someone's floors experience moisture damage, there won't be any need to replace the entire floor. Buckling, crowing, and cupping are used to describe the warping as well as damage experienced by engineered hardwood flooring and wood floors. These conditions are caused by changes in humidity, groundwater, moisture, and more.

Humidity And Moisture

People want wood floors and engineered hardwood flooring because of the improved appearance they provide in any space where they are placed. They are also known for being sensitive and delicate. Warping and disfigurement can occur from humidity and moisture. It may be possible to control the humidity of a home. Moisture can still become an issue even if a home has no problems with flooding or leaking pipes.

Relative Humidity

The air in any space inside an enclosed area will have humidity. There will always be water vapor in the air unless it measures zero. Over time, the wood in a home such as the doors, walls, and floors will adjust to the humidity levels. It will reach equilibrium. This is why it is common to hear a house settle. The floorboards will creak when experiencing weather that disturbs the equilibrium. When a home experiences extreme changes in moisture, it will cause the floorboards to warp.

Buckling

This can happen when floorboards aren't given the opportunity to adjust to the climate in a home. This will occur when a person notices floorboards pulling away from the sub-floor. The floorboards bow inward. They may also come right off of the floor. This could also be the result of poor installation. The newly installed wood has to have room to contract and expand and adjust to changing humidity levels and temperatures. If the floorboards don't have enough space, they will buckle.

Peaking

This is an expansion issue. The main reason this happens is problems with the installation. Wooden floors are regularly contracting and expanding based on the humidity level in a home. The weather and temperature also play a role. This should be a consideration during the installation process. It is important for there to be the proper space between each floorboard as well as space between the flooring and the walls. If this isn't done, the wood won't be able to properly expand. There won't be any room for the wood swelling. This will result in peaking.

Cupping

This occurs when excessive moisture impacts the underside of floorboards. The surface of the boards will seem to be cupping and have a concave shape. The side of the boards will be higher than the middle of the boards. They will bow inward. Engineered hardwood flooring and wood floors can experience cupping. This is different from other types of damage because of the location of the moisture damage. The bottom of the boards becomes saturated with moisture. This situation can occur over a few days. The reason for it is probably underlying water damage. This could be part of a serious problem like leakage and groundwater. It is something to be resolved by a professional plumber. It is also possible for boards to cup because of too much water vapor in the air. The boards will then warp much slower. This is a challenge to detect since there will be no immediate changes.

Repairing Common Issues

When it comes to cupping, it is possible to repair it by sanding the floor. This will make the boards even. Before sanding the floor, it needs to have enough time for the moisture content to return to normal. Should this not be done, it can cause peaking. When the boards are bent upward, sanding shouldn't be done. It is possible to spot treat places that buckle or peak. The boards that have been affected can be removed and given time to dry and then replaced.

People don't have any real control over unexpected moisture issues. Damage can result from unexpected flooding as well as leaking pipes. It's also not possible to do anything about the moisture or humidity in the air. The floorboards of wooden floors or engineered hardwood flooring can be protected by covering them with a sealant product. It is also recommended to have a dehumidifier running in rooms where hardwood floors or engineered hardwood flooring is located. This will take out the dampness or high humidity that is present.

How To Maintain Fire Sprinklers in Your Building

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

a red fire sprinkler Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

All fire sprinkler gauges should be inspected weekly, or possibly monthly depending on your type of system.

Maintenance Steps For Fire Sprinklers

A properly functioning sprinkler system can save lives. Sprinkler maintenance should be part of the safety plan for every building. Regular maintenance of sprinkler systems is essential in the prevention of accidental activation. Locate a sprinkler inspection company so they can schedule and perform these necessary maintenance steps.

1. Weekly Maintenance

A designated member of your staff trained in the standards and local codes can perform the weekly maintenance to ensure there is proper air and water pressure on the dry, pre-action, and deluge system gauges. All gauges should be inspected weekly, or possibly monthly depending on your system. Wet pipe systems should be checked monthly. All inspections should include looking for signs of physical damage.

2. Quarterly Maintenance

Outside of the weekly maintenance, a licensed fire protection technician should conduct all testing and maintenance. Every three months all alarm systems should be inspected as well as the connection to the fire department.

3. Yearly Maintenance

Yearly sprinkler maintenance includes the inspection of buildings, bracings, pipes, fittings, and fire sprinklers. In addition to physical inspection, several things should be tested each year. Control valves, alarm switches, gauges, backflow preventers, anti-freeze loops, fire department connections, and visible piping should all be inspected and tested to make sure they are functioning properly. Running a test for dry, pre-action, and deluge systems is also recommended on a yearly basis.

4. Maintenance Every 5 Years

Hoses, connections, and piping should be inspected every five years. Testing of standpipes, internal pipe inspections, and obstruction investigations should also be conducted every five years.

A functional and reliable sprinkler system should be a priority for every building owner. They act as both a warning system and a lifesaver. Accidental activation of a sprinkler system can cause costly water damage that may require water damage restoration. Keeping up with regular sprinkler maintenance can help prevent the need for cleanup from easily avoidable water damage.

4 of the Most Common Water Damage Areas

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Like It Never Even Happened SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory Aberdeen & West Point

If you are a homeowner or business owner knowing where the most common water damage areas are can be very beneficial to you when disaster strikes.

SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory Aberdeen & West Point is always Here to Help when disaster strikes. Every home and property has unique challenges when it comes to extracting water and drying out the structure.

These four water-damaged areas of the most common areas and why they prove to be so difficult.

Attic Space

Attic spaces can be hard to get equipment into and may have electrical hazards. Oftentimes attic spaces require that insulation is removed to properly dry the space. 

Duct Work 

Some duct systems made of fragile and porous materials make it difficult to dry and set up drying equipment.

Basements 

Many basements are unfinished with lots of porous materials that would need disposing of due to possible contamination in water. 

No matter the space or the cause of damage, SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory Aberdeen & West Point is always Here to Help when disaster strikes. We have crews who are on call 24/7 because we know that when disaster strikes there is no time to wait. 

Crawlspace 

Crawlspace may be hard to work in and place drying equipment into. 

Low temperatures can make it difficult to warm the space and properly dry it. 

YIKES! Cold Weather can Break your Pipes.

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

an image of a pipe bursting Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

-It's almost springtime here in Tupelo and the surrounding areas, but we have a large chance of snow tonight! March 11, 2022

Winter weather can bring about more issues than just slippery roads and heavy snow to shovel. With the sudden drop in temperature and immediate increase, we are at risk of pipes bursting, which can cause a major water damage disaster at your house or business.

With the extreme cold comes an increased risk for frozen pipes in cooler areas of your home or your business. Here are some tips to help prevent pipes in areas such as basements, attics, garages, and kitchen cabinets from freezing during the coming cold snap:

  • Open faucets slightly to let water drip or slowly trickle during extreme cold.
  • Consider insulating pipes in cold areas of your home like crawlspaces or attics.
  • Keep your heat set to a consistent temperature 24/7.
  • Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air circulate near the plumbing, especially those cabinets near outside walls.

How Can Homeowners Remove Water Damage?

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

flooring that has been affected with water damage Call 662-690-6502 for service from SERVPRO today!

Water can quickly damage the flooring in your home!

Have this number on had 662-690-6502 and contact SERVPRO for water removal and remediation efforts.

SERVPRO Offers Premier Service Among Water Restoration Companies

Homes across America experience copious amounts of water damage each year, and pipe leaks and appliance failures can add to any homeowner’s stresses. An estimated one in 50 homeowners experiences the stress of home water damage each year.

Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) -accredited Mississippi companies like SERVPRO respond quickly to disasters 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

How Do our SERVPRO Techs Restore Wet Carpet and Pad?

SERVPRO professionals implement various tools and techniques to restore a home’s carpeting. 

Included:

  • Lifting carpet and pad so that air movement and dehumidification equipment can dry underneath it
  • Controlling odors with EPA-registered antimicrobial solutions
  • Extracting moisture with carpet wands and rover vacuums

Unsalvageable carpet can be removed from the property with the permission of homeowners and permission of the insurance adjuster. SERVPRO technicians can reinstall and re-seam both new and restored carpet and pad or provide a new carpet pad if the carpet is salvageable.

Call 662-690-6502 for service from SERVPRO, which numbers among the area’s premier water restoration companies.

How to Prevent Clogged Gutters from draining water into your home

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Gutters on a brick home SERVPRO of Tupelo, SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point wants to help you keep your home in the best condition possible. - Call us today!

-Water Damage is a Possibility with Misaligned Gutters

Watching the rain hit a window as it cascades downward might entertain children, but homeowners should see such activity as a sign of impending problems involving their home. Gutters clogged with leaves, twisted sections, or broken, disconnected areas can cause water to hit your home instead of flowing correctly.
Once your gutters receive the required repairs, SERVPRO can mitigate any water damage in your home's living space. When water damages a home because of misdirected rainfall, it can also affect window frames, particularly those made of wood. Interior walls made of drywall can break away in sections or crumble at the slightest touch.

When SERVPRO technicians perform mitigation of water damage, we always check the moisture content of surrounding materials to ensure that they remain undamaged. Materials can seem uncompromised even after water seeped into them. Early detection of this situation means we can get the affected area dried out quickly and prevent any permanent damage. Helping our customers save money is always important to us at SERVPRO.

Water can also occur at the floor level after entering a house. Once there, it can begin warping trim and floorboards. We carry highly effective equipment that handles drying out the moisture inside walls and other structures inside a house. After removing the baseboards and drilling two small holes, we can place the flexible tubing attached to our injectidry system. Once ready, we can begin moving warm, dry air through the wall's cavity and get it dry again.
When moisture invades a floor, we can use mats that work similarly. Air movers also work to increase evaporation, and desiccant machines extract water vapor from the air as it circulates. Wherever materials show water damage, we only remove what is necessary and as neatly as possible.

SERVPRO of Tupelo, SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point wants to help you keep your home in the best condition possible.

Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

Tupelo MS Water Cleanup - Avoid Creating Mold Infestations In Your Home

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO truck - at the warehouse Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

1. Call SERVPRO to avoid water damage leading to mold growth.

Many consumers unintentionally create the right conditions that foster mold infestations. It begins with a water leak somewhere or perhaps an overflowing sink. Water spreads across the floor, into other rooms, soaking carpets and under padding. The leak is repaired, and the visible water is mopped up, and the flooring is allowed to dry naturally. These consumers may have created the perfect conditions for mold growth.

SERVPRO receives calls from consumers all of the time about water cleanup in Lee county. A mold infestation has appeared, there is a musty smell in the area, and family members are experiencing health effects. We can help manage the initial water event, clean up the water, and dry all areas affected to avoid future mold infestations.

2. Stop the Leak and Remove the Water

SERVPRO recommends that consumers manage the leak first and foremost. Turn the tap off, or shut off the main water supply, and make repairs if there is a water leak. Then call SERVPRO for help! SERVPRO 

can respond in less than 4 hours, we are available on a 24/7 basis. To start, begin mopping up as much of the water as possible. This limits the overall damage and controls the area that may become soaked with water.

3. Extracting the Moisture

SERVPRO has the equipment to remove every last drop of water and dry your floors, including hardwood, subfloors, and carpeting. We use a weighted water extractor to squeeze every last drop of moisture from the carpet and underpad. Hand-operated vacuums remove water from hard surfaces such as hardwood, linoleum floors, and tile.

4. Air Movers and Dehumidifiers 

We also want to avoid any opportunity for mold growth. We use desiccant air dryers to remove moisture from hard surfaces such as hardwood floors. Carpets are sometimes lifted to expose the underpad and subfloors. Air movers are used for blowing air into these areas to absorb moisture, and dehumidifiers are used to remove humidity from the air. SERVPRO ensures that there is no moisture left to support the growth of mold.

Ways To Protect Your Home From Hail Damage

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

a home affected by a hail storm Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

When rain and freezing temperatures mix we are at risk for hail damage. Hail is large, layered ice particles, often spherical, which are produced by thunderstorms having strong, tilted updrafts. Hailstorms form within an unusually unstable air mass, that is, an air mass in which the temperature falloff with height is much greater than normal.

Make sure your roof is in good condition

Inspect your roof to repair any wear and tear as preventative maintenance.

Choose steep-sloped roofs

If possible, select a home with a steep-sloped roof, as low-sloped and flat roofs suffer more severe hail damage.

Replace the roof when necessary:

If it’s time to replace the roof, make an informed decision and select a replacement shingle by reviewing the latest impact rating results by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety.

Select fiber-cement siding

Select fiber-cement siding where aluminum or vinyl siding would otherwise be used because it is more resilient to hail.

Select impact-rated skylights

Select impact-rated skylights that meet FM Approval Standard.

Close drapes, window shades, and blinds

Close drapes, blinds, or window shades during a severe hailstorm to keep the wind from blowing broken glass inside. Members of the National Roof Contractors Association (NRCA) are usually a good choice as they are normally up-to-date on the latest issues and product requirements. Some roofing manufacturers also have training and certification programs for contractors who install their products.

SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point is your water damage specialist!

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Logo Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

SERVPRO specializes in water damage restoration- the cornerstone of our business. We have extensive water damage restoration training, and our process emphasizes regular monitoring and documentation of the drying process from beginning to end. We are proud to serve our local communities. Call us 24/7 for prompt response time!
You have probably heard of our SERVPRO ERPs
(Emergency Ready Profiles). As we conduct ERPs in commercial buildings, we also add water and gas shut-off tags to the appropriate shut-offs. We add these tags as a helpful indication if you ever have an emergency in your home. For example, if a pipe bursts or a leak happens in your home or business, the first thought to cross your mind should be to turn off the water.

Next step? Call SERVPRO! 662-690-6502
If the leak is from a sink or a toilet, it is easy to turn off the water for that line by turning the valve that is located beneath or beside the fixture. What if you're not sure where the leak is coming from? It could be a pipe behind your wall, under your home, or somewhere that is hard to locate. In this case, you should turn off the water to the whole house. This means locating the water main shutoff. Ask yourself this question, whether in your home or business. Do you know where the shutoff is located and could you locate it in the case of an emergency? If not, don't feel bad. Many people do not know where to locate their water and gas shut-offs.
Typically, these shut-offs lie on the exterior of the home or business around the perimeter of the building. Once you have found the shutoff, make sure that all members of your household know where it is. This is exactly why we tag these main shut-offs during the creation of an ERP. The quicker you can turn off the water, the less damage is caused.


Give us a call today! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

How quickly can water damage create mold?

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

Mold on a wall near the baseboards Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

SERVPRO Technicians Mitigate Water Damage to Northern Mississippi Properties with Commercial-Grade Tools

Home water damage in Tupelo or any other locale is frustrating to deal with, particularly during the summer months. Warmer weather and higher humidity levels bring an increased risk of microbial growth without fast mitigation.

If your residence requires mitigation services, SERVPRO technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to restore your property to a preloss condition. This team undergoes extensive training and certification per Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards to ensure that they can meet the industry benchmarks for clean and safe home restoration.

How Do I Detect Interior Pipe Leaks and What Can I Do to Repair Them?

Detecting Leaks

If you are concerned about a potential leak in your home from faulty or damaged plumbing, turn off all appliances in your home that use water. Check your water meter and write down the number you find on it, and repeat this step at least three hours later. Does the number continue to increase? If so, a leak somewhere in your plumbing is likely. However, this detection method does not work as well if you have a constantly dripping faucet or running toilet.

Dealing with Interior Leaks

If your interior plumbing is damaged, it may be time to call in a professional to handle the job.

What can a licensed pro do?

  • Safely perform the demolition necessary to access the pipe and structural elements that may have been affected by water damage.
  • Licensed techs can remove damaged plumbing and replace it with functional parts.
  • Restoration professionals can detect moisture damage and leaks with sophisticated tools and then perform water extraction and structural drying services
  • Perform any necessary patching, sanding, priming, and painting necessary to repair damaged drywall and return your home to a pre-leak state.

Certain materials require extra care, including tile, brick, and plaster. SERVPRO has access to reputable subcontractors who can render professional rebuilding services after a disaster.

How Does Water Damage Give Way to Microbial Growth?

While many homeowners in Helena may think that microbes and mold are only a problem for large-scale water damage, this is untrue. Any kind of water damage, at any scale, can create an environment that allows mold to thrive. Microbes can grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours after the initial disaster, meaning fast action is a must for keeping your home clean and safe.

What Are the Properties of Mold?

Mold grows by eating organic materials and reproduces by releasing spores into the air that clings to nearby surfaces. In nature, this is highly useful. Mold digests plant debris and allows for new growth to occur.

Many different types of mold thrive on an equally diverse array of surfaces, however. As long as your property is appropriately warm, humid, and full of organic materials such as wood, paper, and plant-based fibers, mold can quickly spread.

How Do I Prevent Microbial Growth in My Home?

  • Keep an eye out for water leaks in your home and prevent them as quickly as possible. Clean up spills immediately after they occur.
  • Keep attics and crawl spaces insulated and ventilated to minimize the risk of mold growth in a water damage situation.
  • Move furniture at least a few inches away from walls to improve air circulation in hard-to-reach areas.
  • Always use exhaust fans in high-moisture areas, such as laundry rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
  • Ensure there is enough airflow and ventilation in your home, especially if water damage is detected on the property.

While these measures can, in many cases, prevent microbial growth in your home, SERVPRO highly recommends contacting a specialist for your water damage mitigation needs to optimize safety through fast action rendered by trained professionals.

What Does SERVPRO Use to Remediate Bacterial and Microbial Proliferation?

  • Access to over 100 proprietary cleaning solutions that remediate microbial growth as well as staining and odors from water damage.
  • A variety of delivery methods for sanitation products, including sponges, mops, sprayers, squeegees, and foggers.
  • SERVPRO education, certifications, personal protection equipment (PPE), and containment techniques to remove microbial growth while preventing its spread through your property.
  • Structural drying equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers inhibit microbial growth quickly when implemented after the use of water extraction tools.
  • Odor Control Technicians (OCTs) can use commercial-grade deodorizers, including EPA-registered antimicrobials and ultra-low volume (ULV) fogging systems, to eliminate water damage odors.
  • Powerful box fans circulate air as much as 3,200 cubic feet per minute to improve indoor air quality before and after odor control measures are implemented.

SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory Aberdeen & West point can ensure that your home looks, “Like it never even happened.” 

Call 662-690-6502 today!

HOW TO PREVENT WATER LEAKS IN YOUR HOME

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

a sink faucet dripping water in a home Call SERPVRO of Tupelo at (662) 690-6502 if you need help with your water damage today!!

Water leaks within a home or business can seep into carpet, flooring, baseboards, and walls while moving throughout the structure. The professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo and Amory/Aberdeen & West Point understand how disruptive water damages can be for a family. Water leaks in a business can not only disrupt the facility but also can interrupt day to day business functions, which could lead to closing the business and affect revenues. 

Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process. Quick response time helps ensure that damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly. This saves on the amount of damage, cost of claims, and assists in reducing losses from business interruption due to a loss. Timely and proper water mitigation will also help keep mold from developing which could cause people to become ill! SERVPRO Professionals will be able to identify water regardless of where it hides. Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals cover Northeast Mississippi. We offer 24-hour emergency response from our trained professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Leak Prevention Tips:

  1. Check the roof for deterioration.
  2.  Check gutters and downspouts.
  3.  Check basements and crawl spaces for moisture.
  4.  Check appliances in kitchens, break rooms and cafeterias.
  5.  Check sinks and toilets in bathrooms.
  6.  Check HVAC for leaks and blockages. 

Call SERPVRO of Tupelo at (662) 690-6502 if you need help with your water damage today!!

Residential Water Toilet Overflow Is More Than a Messy Cleanup

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Toilet with lid up and containated water.  Dealing with an overflowing toilet in your home is frustrating.

Dealing with an overflowing toilet in your home is frustrating, especially if the situation seems to frequently occur. Along with the mess it leaves behind, a flooded toilet can quickly lead to water damage in other areas of the home. As well as potentially being a costly endeavor, repair is made worse by the fact that the toilet could be a sign of a bigger sewer damage issue.

Toilet Problems

In most situations, there are three main reasons for a toilet overflowing:

Clogged Lines: This is the most frequent culprit, and a plunger often can fix the issues. In some cases, the clog may be too far down the line, a situation which may require calling a plumber. Frequent clogs may indicate it is time for a new toilet as well as serve as a reminder to only flush waste and toilet paper.
Blocked Vents: Plumbing fixtures store air and release it when flushing. Debris in vents can quickly lead to clogs that make toilets begin to drain more slowly or stop altogether.
Sewer Issues: The plumbing in your home is connected to the outside world. If the main line to the sewer is clogged or broken, it can cause sewage backup. Along with toilet issues, there may be leaks in the basement or around other drains.

Professional Cleanup
When the culprit is sewer damage, it means that the overflowing water is contaminated and should be handled by a sewage company. Considered black water, it contains potentially harmful pathogens and microorganisms. If the overflowing water had waste in it, it is best to contact a water remediation and restoration expert to handle the problem. Along with having the proper safety gear for the process, they have the know-how to detect additional damage and ensure that the cleanup is done properly. This guarantees your bathroom and affected areas are safe and clean.
While a toilet issue may seem like something that is easy to deal with, checking that there is no sewer damage is imperative before diving into cleanup.

How To Clean Clothes that are Water-Damaged

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

When people deal with unexpected water in the home, their first thoughts are usually of carpets and floors, walls, or furniture. Clothing doesn't usually come to mind right away, but you should consider how expensive a wardrobe can be. Yes, the carpets, walls, and furniture are important, but it is also important to know how to clean water-damaged clothes. 

Before you start calculating the costs of dry cleaning for each of your water-damaged items, determine which ones are worth spending the money to save. You'll want to avoid:

  • Anything touched by sewage water
  • Anything that has large stains on it
  • Anything that seems to have a lot of discoloration
  • Anything covered in mold or mildew

In addition, if the items are extremely worn, or if cleaning them will cost more than you spent on the item in the first place, it is a good idea to get rid of them. Once you decide which pieces of clothing you want to salvage, separate the wet items from each other to prevent colors from running and allow them to start the drying process.

Begin the Washing Process

After fixing a broken pipe and starting the cleanup of water in the home, it is time to start washing the clothes you'd like to keep. The water restoration company you work with can tell you if it is safe to use your washer. If it isn't, you can head to a local laundromat. However, note that it is often more cost-effective and safer to hire a dry cleaning service to try to salvage your water-damaged clothing. A professional's machines and chemicals are much more powerful.

Whether you're dealing with a broken pipe or another reason for having water in the home, don't forget about saving as many of your clothing items as possible during the cleanup process. Clothing may or may not be covered in your flood insurance policy, so salvaging a wardrobe will likely help you to save money.

Vacation Prep - How to Prevent Water Damage

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees cleaning water damage SERVPRO is always here to help for your water damage needs, no matter the time of day or day of year! Call us today at 662-690-6502.

As we enter Spring and Summer, vacation season is officially in full swing.  Kids are out of school and the weather is prime for creating family memories.  We all do our best to make sure our home is safe while we are away.  Exterior lighting, security systems and now days even smart phone operated appliances to keep away intruders.  For more of us, water damage never crosses our mind.  Did you know that a ½ inch supply line flows at a rate of 50 gallons of water per minute?  Just for reference, a standard tub holds roughly 80 gallons of water.   Imagine your bathtub completely emptying in your home every 2 minutes!  Just imaging what damage could be done if this happens on the first day of your vacation and you don’t know until you arrive back home days later.  At SERVPRO of Tupelo and Amory/Aberdeen & West Point, we have seen the damage that can ensue.  Not only flooding of the entire footprint of the home, but also mold.  If left untreated, a water loss can cause mold growth to begin in as little as 24-48 hours.  We recommend that as part of your pre-travel checklist, you add turning off the main water supply to your home.  The best way to prevent disaster is to be prepared!

What to Do if There Is a Water Leak Around a Window

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Window with water leaking on window seal Call SERVPRO of Tupelo and Amory, Aberdeen & West Point @ 662-690-6502 today to handle your water issues!

The natural elements can wear down the integrity of a home. Over time, the homeowner may notice leakage around a window, which can possibly result in wood rot, mold and water damage. The longer the leak is left unaddressed, the more the repairs will cost.

Locate the Problem

Even a slow drip can mean that more water is sitting inside the wall. Once a homeowner notices moisture trickling from a window when it rains, the first step is to carefully look at the wall around the area to find the source of the leak. However, thanks to gravity, appearances can be deceiving; liquid may pool in one place, but that place is not always the leak's origin.

Two common problem areas are the edge and the rubber seal. The gap between the edge and the surrounding wall is usually sealed with caulk. Eventually, the caulk dries out and begins to peel and chip. Like caulk, the rubber seal situated between the panes and frame can ultimately dry out, creating rips in the rubber.

Gauge the Severity of Damage

Depending on the severity of the damage, the window may need to be replaced. A replacement is usually warranted when decaying or softness is found on nearby surfaces. However, even if the surrounding surfaces seem to be structurally sound, the homeowner should not just re-caulk the gaps without getting an expert's opinion on the full extent of the damage.

SERVPRO® of Tupelo and Amory, Aberdeen & West Point Can Help

A specialist at SERVPRO can determine whether any ceiling tiles or drywall have sustained damage. After he assesses the situation, the restoration technician will give the homeowner the best remediation option to make the damage disappear. By acting quickly, the homeowner can prevent expensive repairs in the future. SERVPRO® of Metairie is always ready to help the residents of New Orleans and the city's surrounding communities solve their water damage problems.

How Should You Handle A Flood In Your Apartment Complex?

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

View from window of buildings, with white curtains SERVPRO is always here to help for your water damage needs, no matter the time of day or day of year! Call us today at 662-690-6502!

As a wise apartment owner, you know to be prepared for flood damages, and you know it’s always smart to do what you can to prevent them whenever possible. Your complex may suffer from floods that happen because of bad weather, or it may be the type of flood that comes about due to equipment failure or negligence. 

All appliances have a limited lifespan, so it’s important to inspect refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters, HVAC units, and bathroom fixtures in every unit for any signs of excessive aging or failure. Flooding in these areas will create huge issues for you, as the flooding can easily expand to affect not only the individual apartment but the one below or beside it, and perhaps more. Look for:

  • The sound of running water
  • Unpleasant odors in floors, walls, or drains
  • Low water pressure
  • Mold growing around appliance or fixtures
  • Worn out hoses

If leaks are left untreated, they can lead to mold growth, stains, and floor and wall damages. Encourage your residents to let you know about any issues right away so that you can address any leaks immediately. Educate your renters to keep an eye on their water bills. Any large uptick in usage and cost is a huge clue that some investigation needs to be done; there is probably a leak somewhere. 

Maintaining the roofs, gutters, and exterior windows and doors of your complex will go a long way towards keeping your business safe from the elements and flooding that can happen during heavy rains. Any drainage system on your property will need to be properly cared for, too, with debris and dirt clogging the system being removed regularly in case of heavy water. A backed-up drainage system can be a huge flooding culprit.  

If you are due for some landscaping, make sure any new large shrubs or trees are planted in places where they won’t interfere with pipelines, and remove those that are already in the danger zone. Root systems can easily break apart piping and create a flooding event. Choose those plants and trees that don’t have aggressive root systems, just to be safe.

If you do experience a flood in your apartment complex, first you will want to make sure that everyone is safe. If a unit’s atmosphere is unhealthy, make arrangements for the residents to go elsewhere while repairs are made. If the damage is extensive, it may be necessary to find them another apartment in your complex to stay in for a time. 

If it is a large, weather-related flooding event, safety is still the primary focus. Can people get in and out of their homes and the complex? Is anyone out of power? Are their elderly or disadvantaged people in your complex that need special attention? Are all children accounted for and does everyone know where all their family members or roommates are? Are any pets in danger? Many of these issues will require the aid of professionals, and perhaps even the police or fire department. 

When you are dealing with flood damages, the SERVPRO of Tupelo and Amory, Aberdeen & West Point team is always here to help, 24/7. We are water and fire damage specialists, and we have years of experience with mold remediation and prevention, as well.

Have You Checked on Your Toilet Lately?

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Toilet with plunger in the water.  SERVPRO is always here to help for your water damage needs, no matter the time of day or day of year! Call us today at 662-690-6502.

Many times the toilet in your home can be the last thing you think about causing water damage. As they age, however, the components that allow it to function properly can jam or malfunction, causing several potential problems. While some of these might be a drawn-out refilling process that can affect your monthly water bill, more severe consequences might include overflowing of the reservoir when the float mechanism does not engage.

Overflowing reservoirs might not affect your  home but it does often require professional water removal and recovery. Even with noticing the problem shortly after it begins, an instance like this can quickly cover the bathroom floor and affect cabinetry and the vanity as well. Our SERVPRO® professionals can understand the importance of reacting quickly to this situation.

The tile or laminate flooring likely installed in your bathroom can resist penetration from the pooling water, but saturation can still occur with these materials if the problem does not get addressed quickly enough. While each plank or tile itself works to resist absorbing the moisture, seams and grout joints are more penetrable. To protect your flooring from extensive damage, extraction must begin shortly after the situation gets discovered.

Our SERVPRO® professionals can arrive with high-powered extraction equipment for severe damages like our gas-powered units. For smaller pools, we can also bring in our portable sump pumps and extraction wands. Once the excess has gotten removed from the flooring, we can set up our advanced drying equipment to protect and preserve exposed cabinetry, fixtures, and flooring. We can double check our drying efforts with our thermal imagery cameras to detect lingering moisture pockets that require added attention.

As traumatic as an overflowing reservoir might seem, the right professional assistance can make this water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Give SERVPRO® of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point a call anytime disaster strikes at 662-690-6502. 

Water Damage Timeline

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo are available for any size water damage 24/7. Call us today at (662) 690-6502.

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. SERVPRO of Tupelo arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout the property, saturating everything in its path
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
  • A musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold
  • Paint begins to blister
  • Wood flooring swells and warps
  • Serious bio-hazard contamination is possible

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost may increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and bio-hazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants

Call SERPVRO of Tupelo at (662) 690-6502 if you need help with your water damage today!!

The Benefits Of Prompt Water Removal

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo is always here to help for your water damage needs, no matter the time of day or day of year! Call us today at 662-690-6502.

When your home in north Mississippi sustains an overflowing sink or tub, broken pipe, or other lost water, getting the water out as quickly as possible from your living space comes with added benefits. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, making it possible for our teams to make the situation less troublesome for you.


We work with homeowners in the Tupelo area after lost water incidents cause problems by using water removal methods that help make things normal again fast. We want to make your residence like it was before, “Like it never even happened.” Because the process of extracting water while it is in its liquid form before it can escape into the air and additional objects inside your home than it is to pull moisture from the air, we start as soon as we possibly can.

The benefits go beyond a lower restoration cost, also. Not only does it cost less to extract more and dry less, but it also requires less time to accomplish this and start with cleanup. Because water that has less time to evaporate into the air and condense elsewhere, we do not need to use equipment to track it to other locations in your home.

We also can use less equipment, meaning the cost falls even more. Instead of four heaters, six air movers, and three desiccant machines, we can use about half of that number.

Other stories of your home might not become affected at all, meaning less traffic in these areas by our specialists, and increased privacy for your family members. Fewer or no machines in these areas also result in less noise that can disrupt children's schoolwork and interfere with anyone who sleeps during the daytime hours.

Fast action to a lost water event means that microbes have less time to become a problem for you. When mold's access to water is only temporary, the few spores that become active initially quickly die off from lack of continued moisture.

If your home in Tupelo, Fulton, or New Albany sustains a terrible incident involving lost water and you need water removal services,SERVPRO of Tupelo is the company you can trust to do the job right. Call our 24-hour emergency services line at 662-690-6502, year-round so that we can send out the appropriate crews and equipment your home needs.

Sewer Damage

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo is here for all types of water damages, even the dirty ones! Call us today at 662-690-6502.

Sewer damage and drain back up can cause serious damage to Tupelo area homes. They also present health risks and should only be cleaned by certified water damage professionals. SERVPRO of Tupelo technicians are trained to deal with sewer damage issues.

Some examples include, but are not limited to: sewage, toilet backflows that originate from beyond the toilet trap regardless of visible content or color.

Below are some basic procedures for clean up

  1. Identify ALL safety issues
  2. Determine source or Sewer back up and get problem fixed as quickly as possible 
  3. Extract materials and/or remove all standing water
  4. Apply EPA registered disinfectant
  5. Remove and discard all contaminated porous and semi-porous structural materials included carpet and pad
  6. Measure and document all moisture levels in affected areas.
  7. Install barriers to contain damaged areas
  8. Install drying equipment 
  9. Monitor job daily.
  10. Once completely dry. Clean all areas prior to rebuild.

When your Tupelo home or business has a sewer back up, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo. Call us today at 662-690-6502. We are always here to help! 

What Does IICRC Mean To You?

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Our trained and professional staff is always here to help! Call us today at 662-690-6502.

We are proud to say that our established team have received several certifications in various areas of expertise.

IICRC stands for Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification and they are a non-profit organization for the cleaning & restoration industry. In essence, they set the standard for cleanliness so home and business owners know that they will receive quality service.

Our team members take educational classes to exhibit their knowledge on a wide array of restoration situation to receive the certification. There are over 16 different standards.

Contact Us!

SERVPRO of Tupelo specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after damaging event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility for regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. SERVPRO wants our team to be part of your team! Call us at 662-690-6502 or follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

Sewer Damage

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo is here for all types of water damages, even the dirty ones! Call us today at 662-690-6502.

Sewer damage and drain back up can cause serious damage to Tupelo area homes. They also present health risks and should only be cleaned by certified water damage professionals. SERVPRO of Tupelo technicians are trained to deal with sewer damage issues.

Some examples include, but are not limited to: sewage, toilet backflows that originate from beyond the toilet trap regardless of visible content or color.

Below are some basic procedures for clean up

  1. Identify ALL safety issues
  2. Determine source or Sewer back up and get problem fixed as quickly as possible 
  3. Extract materials and/or remove all standing water
  4. Apply EPA registered disinfectant
  5. Remove and discard all contaminated porous and semi-porous structural materials included carpet and pad
  6. Measure and document all moisture levels in affected areas.
  7. Install barriers to contain damaged areas
  8. Install drying equipment 
  9. Monitor job daily.
  10. Once completely dry. Clean all areas prior to rebuild.

When your Tupelo home or business has a sewer back up, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo. Call us today at 662-690-6502. We are always here to help! 

Water Damage: What Your Adjuster Needs From You

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo is always here to help. Call us 24//7 at 662-690-6502

As a homeowner, you do not plan for your home in  Tupelo, MS to flood, but if it does, it is important to know the critical first steps to take. Your home adjuster is tasked with assessing the damage, and there are a few key things you can document to assist with the analysis:

• Written list of all that is damaged or destroyed
• Cost to repair or replace damaged items
• Pictures of the damage
• Estimate from your restoration specialist


Structural Damage


If there is visible damage to the house itself, you need to make note of it. Make a list of every wall that has signs of water damage. Check your floor for warping or missing tiles. If there are cracks in your walls or in your foundation, put that on the list as well. Take pictures of everything you write down to back up your statements. It is advisable to contact professional water damage restoration technicians to get an estimate in writing of how much the repairs to your home are going to cost to give to your home adjuster.


Destroyed Possessions


The insurance claim you file is likely to include damaged items in your home. Make an inventory of everything that needs to be replaced as a result of the flooding. Beside each item, list when you purchased it and approximately how much it would cost to replace it. Keep the damaged items and take digital pictures so you can print them out or email them. 

Once you have compiled an inventory of the damage to your home for your insurance claim, make a copy for your records before you hand it off to the home adjuster. That way, if there is a discrepancy between what the adjuster finds and what your records show, you have your own proof. Ensuring that you and the adjuster have the same information may help your insurance company settle your claim and get your home back to normal more quickly.

Leave the Hassle of Board-Ups To the Professionals

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERPVRO of Tupelo can take care of boarding up your property after a storm or fire. Call us 24/7 at 662-690-6502.

Whether after a fire, storm, or other structural disaster, boarding up damaged property is a burden that no one should ever have to go through— especially if it's your property that has been damaged.

Boarding up damaged property incorrectly could cause secondary damages such as moisture or animal intrusion, making the situation even worse. The process of boarding up after an unexpected damage can also be as dangerous as the damage itself.

SERVPRO of Tupelo can board up your damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”

We have the skills and knowledge to board up broken windows, damaged roofs, burned drywall or any other damaged entrance to your property. Whether the damage is from fire, flooding, or debris during windstorms, we have the experience to board up your home and secure it from further damage. And we are available 24/7, so we can get there before the damage gets even worse.

If your property is in need of any board-up services, give SERVPRO of Tupelo a call at 662-690-6502. We are always here to help! 

Leave the Hassle of Board-Ups To the Professionals

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point can take care of boarding up your property after a storm or fire. Call us 24/7 at 662-494-7733.
 

Whether after a fire, storm, or other structural disaster, boarding up damaged property is a burden that no one should ever have to go through— especially if it's your property that has been damaged.

Boarding up damaged property incorrectly could cause secondary damages such as moisture or animal intrusion, making the situation even worse. The process of boarding up after an unexpected damage can also be as dangerous as the damage itself.

SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point can board up your damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”

We have the skills and knowledge to board up broken windows, damaged roofs, burned drywall or any other damaged entrance to your property. Whether the damage is from fire, flooding, or debris during windstorms, we have the experience to board up your home and secure it from further damage. And we are available 24/7, so we can get there before the damage gets even worse.

If your property is in need of any board-up services, give SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point a call at 662494-7733. We are always here to help! 

Ever Thought About Secondary Damage?

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo are available for any size water damage 24/7. Call us today at 662-690-6502.
Water damage is a serious issue that you need to deal with promptly when it happens.

There are some things you can do on your own to help while waiting for professionals and those tasks are in our previous post of do's and dont's for water damage.

If water damage is not fixed quickly can destroy the integrity of your house.

Structural Damage

The biggest problem faced by homeowners after their houses are damaged by water is structural damage. It might sound obvious, but when your house has been hit by a lot of water the whole structure can be weakened. That’s particularly true in any area where water was allowed to sit for more than a few hours.
If you have water sitting on the floors and on your walls for days, after a major catastrophe you could really be facing some serious structural issues. Hire a professional to look at your home and don’t walk on floors, else it could be very badly damaged.

Even if your home doesn’t have significant structural damage, being in a home that’s been badly damaged by water can create some other serious issues. Mold and mildew are the most common problems, and walls and floors that have been soaked by water can start growing unpleasant  mold in just a few hours.

Homes in climates with high humidity are even more susceptible to mold and mildew.

Water Damage & Your Business: Summer Edition

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Water damages can happen to anyone at anytime. Call SERVPRO of Tupelo today. We are always here to help!
Most of the time, disasters are unexpected. If you aren’t prepared beforehand for what can happen, your business may suffer more than it needs to.
  • STAYING DRY

The volume of water from a summer storm can present problems. Take a good look around your place of business; is the weather stripping in doors and windows in good repair for damp conditions? Do exterior doors fit tightly and close as they should? The roof of your office or warehouse needs to be completely watertight, as well, to protect machinery, product, and furniture from water damages.

The parking lot of your business needs to have a well-planned drainage system so that clients and employees can get to and from their vehicles safely. If people have to wade into your business, your floors will suffer, and a slip-and-fall accident due to wet floors can be a disaster for everyone. Make sure you keep an eye on potholes as well; even a small amount of water can dig a pretty deep hole in a very short period of time!

  • KEEPING AN EYE OUT FOR THE WEATHER

Rain gutters and spouts need to be checked periodically; if a rain gutter becomes clogged with debris like dead leaves or small branches, it won’t be able to drain away rain water. As water backs up, it will leak back into the walls of your building, sometimes without you knowing it, and you can find yourself with a mold problem.

Large trees on your property can become unstable if a large amount of water lands in the area. Do you need to take them out or cut them back so that they are not a risk factor? That’s something to consider.

Power lines and telephone poles near your place of business can be a possible issue. Contact your utilities companies and have them come take a look prior to wet weather to make sure you, your business, and your employees will be safe.

  • PROTECTING RECORDS

For your records, take pictures of your business, such as tools and machinery, furniture, and premises, so that you have proof of their prior condition for insurance purposes in case of storm damages. Save these types of photos to a CD, a flash drive, and/or the cloud for future access. Paper records will be lost if exposed to water; make sure that your hard copies are kept in a manner that will preserve them in case of any water damage. Scanning them and saving to your computer system is always a good idea, and backing up those computer records will keep your business in working order, no matter what comes!

Call the team at SERVPRO of Tupelo for all your large clean up jobs! We are experts when it comes to fire and water damage. 

Water Damage - The Equipment Best for the Job

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

This is a dehumidifier that we use on nearly all water damages.

SERVPRO of Tupelo understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERPVRO of Tupelo will answer you call with fast action, exceptional equipment, and trained, uniformed personnel. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation, but perhaps more important, these water damage professionals thoroughly understand how to dry a structure and person property effectively. 

In a previous blog, we've talked about Psychrometrics, Detection Equipment, Extraction Equipment, and Air Moving Equipment. Today I would like to explain in detail how different Dehumidification Equipment and Deodorization Equipment. 

Dehumidification Equipment: By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity , which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged structure, dehumidifiers pull in the moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials. SERVPRO of Tupelo uses two types of dehumidifiers:

  • Refrigerant Dehumidifiers  - work similarly to air conditioners 
  • Desiccant Dehumidifiers - use chemicals, called desiccants, that readily absorb moisture from the air.

Deodorization Equipment: - 

  • Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing fine mist that easily penetrates sites where odor-causing residues accumulate. The device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other difficult-to-access areas.
  • Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products in large volume, dense fog suitable for confined areas. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that pair with and neutralize odor-causing particles. 

SERVPRO of Tupelo is available 24/7. Please call us today for all of your water and fire damage needs at 662-690-6502. 

Water Damage from Clean Water

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

The faster you call us, the less damage you will have! Call SERVPRO of Tupelo today at 662-690-6502.

When you have a "Clean Water" water damage that is considered a Category 1 Water Damage. That water does not pose substantial threat to humans. Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.

If you have a Category 1 or a "Clean Water" Water Damage at your home or business here are some tips to follow: 

DO:

  • Shut off the water source of water if possible, or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet ares of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
  • Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
  • Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
  • Use wood clothes pins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
  • Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors.
  • Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature. 

DON'T:

  • Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist. 
  • Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment  are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
  • Leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet to cause staining. 
  • Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
  • Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.
  • Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
  • Turn on ceiling fans if ceiling is wet, or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

SERVPRO of Tupelo is available 24 hours 7 days a week. Please call us today if you have a water damage at your home or business at 662-690-6502.

SERVPRO of Tupelo also offers the following services:

  • Fire, Smoke, and Soot
  • Water Removal & Dehumidification
  • Mold Mitigation & Remediation
  • Catastrophic Storm Response
  • Move Outs & Contents Restoration
  • Electronics & Equipment
  • Document Drying
  • Contents Claim Inventory Service
  • Air Ducts & HVAC Cleaning
  • Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleaning
  • Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes & Blinds Cleaning
  • Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors Cleaning
  • Odor Identification 
  • Deodorization

Preventing Water Damages While You Are On Vacation

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let your vacation be ruined by coming home to a water damage! Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo. 662-690-6502

One of the highest insurance claims by homeowners is water damage, according to a study done by the Insurance Information Institute. In fact, leaky pipes and in often cases appliances cause millions of dollars of damage in freezing weather and storms annually. While you’re on vacation, it’s no surprise that a leaky pipe can burst and cause hundreds of dollars of repairs. This is why it’s important to read our steps below on how to prevent water damage to your home while you’re away.

Step 1. Check for Leaks Before Going on Vacation

Before embarking on your trip, check pipes under your sinks and the water heater for any rust, cracks, or damage. You should also check the seals around your windows to make sure there are no cracks that might cause water damage. Additionally, check the exterior of your house and see what condition your roof shingles are in. If any show damage, getting them replaced before leaving for vacation is a good idea.

Step 2. Inspect Your Major Appliances

It’s important that you inspect the hoses that connect to important appliances in your home, such as dishwashers, washer/dryers, and refrigerator. If there is any damage, you should get the hose replaced before you leave to prevent extensive water damage.

Step 3. Clear Out Your Gutters

Make sure to get any debris out of your rain gutters before leaving for vacation. This way, you won’t have any blockages that can cause damage while you’re away.

Step 4. Inspect Your Sump Pump

Make sure it is in good condition and clear any debris from clogging the pit. You should also run a few tests, listening to the sounds it makes and making sure that the water in the pump is actually going outside. You should also install a battery-powered backup in case there is a power outage while you’re away.

Step 5. Insulate Exposed Pipes

If you are planning on being away from your home during the winter, it can be a good idea to insulate any exposed pipes. This will prevent them from freezing while you are away.

Step 6. Get Someone to Check on Your Home

Call a friend or hire a professional house sitter to check on your home every week while you are gone. Instruct them to ensure that the heat is always on if your vacation is during the winter. Also, show them where the water main is in case of an emergency.

Step 7. Turn Off the Water

Lastly, if you cannot find someone to check on your home, you should turn off the water main. You will also want to drain the pipes completely so that they do not freeze or burst during the colder months. To do this, run the water and flush your toilet after you turn off the water. You should also open the cabinets under your sink to let the warm air surround the pipes.

If you do experience water damage while you are away from your home, contact SERVPRO of Tupelo soon as possible. 662-690-6502

Water Heater Water Damage

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

Water damages can happen to any one, any where in your home or business. Call SERVPRO of Tupelo today! 662-690-6502

One pipe leak can result in major water damage throughout many rooms in a home. When a hot water heater leaks in the attic it can cause damage in several rooms below. Typically in these situations, you don't know there is a problem until it's too late!

SERVPRO of Tupelo is equipped to respond to these type of water damage the same day the job is called in. We will extract the water, remove damaged structure, and set up drying equipment. We will monitor the job daily until all structure is dry!

It is recommended that you check your hot water heater on a regular basis, especially if it's in your attic. When your hot water heater is in your attic it is even more important to keep a maintenance schedule and to stick to that schedule. If your hot water heater is slowly leaking, it won't take much time for the pan to begin to overflow from a 50 gallon water tank. The bottom of the water tank can then rust. Also, the leak can cause moisture in the air that can then cause mold!

Things we don't see often, or ever for that matter are easy to forget! If you are a victim of a hot water heater water damage, call us at SERVPRO of Tupelo today! (662) 690-6502

Understanding the Equipment We Use

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

Choosing the right equipment and the right amount of equipment for your water damage is very important! Trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo.

The Right Equipment

SERVPRO of Tupelo understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. We at SERVPRO of Tupelo will answer your call with fast action, exceptional equipment, and trained, uniformed professionals. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation, but perhaps more important, we are water damage professionals that thoroughly understand how to dry a structure and personal property effectively.

Detection Equipment

Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure affected by water and defining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Moisture detection devices are also used to verifty that an environment has been dried thoroughly.

  • Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls.
  • Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials.
  • Thermohygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity.

Extraction Equipment

The most effective method of removing moisture from a structure is extraction. This is why it is critical to respond quickly to a water damage and to provide emergency mitigation services. When the water is extracted quickly, the environment can usually be dried much faster.

Air Moving Equipment

Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level, thereby reducting drying time. As airflow at the surface level increases, the moisture in the air increases. The moisture is then eliminated via the use of dehumidification equipment.

Dehumidification Equipment

By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity, which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged structure, dehumidifiers pull in moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials.

Call SERPVRO of Tupelo at (662) 690-6502 if you need help with your water damage today!!

Work Place Water Damages

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

Specialty drying equipment that can be used on large commercial water damages.

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms. 
 
However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings. 
 
1. Malfunctioning Sprinkler Systems 
Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged Appliances and Equipment 
This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency. 
 
3. Broken Pipes and Plumbing 
Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result. 
 
4. Backed up Sewer Lines 
This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. 
 
If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Tupelo is always here to help!  Call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 662-690-6502.

Preventing Water Damages in Your Kitchen

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo are always here to help! Call us today at 662-690-6502.

Water damage in the kitchen is something that homeowners often forget to consider as they tend to associate water damage with bathrooms and laundry rooms. Unfortunately, water damage in your kitchen is typically hard to recognize due to the various smells already in that area. From the kitchen sink to the dishwasher and from the refrigerator to the freezer, there are many potential water leaking hazards inside of the kitchen. Since detecting moisture in the kitchen is difficult, but it is important to understand the most effective ways to prevent water damage in the kitchen.

Water damage can arise at any moment in your home. In the kitchen, water damage is most often found due to the following:

  1. Dishwashers
  2. Refrigerators
  3. Countertops and Sinks

Dishwashers will sometimes malfunction, causing blockage of the main filter and thus causing a leak and eventual water damage. To prevent this, make sure that you are regularly checking the base of the dishwasher and looking for any collection of excess water. Also, look out for any leaks in the dishwasher which might be caused by an improperly sealed hose. Refrigerators often cause water damage because they are rarely moved. To prevent a potential water problem, be sure to occasionally check behind your refrigerator for any water. Finally, countertops and sinks are obviously exposed to water each and every day. To prevent water damage in these areas, check under your sink for any pooling water and make sure that the grout on your countertops is intact, as this is a sign of water damage.

Kitchen repairs for water damage can be costly and annoying. Not only will you have to pay to fix the problem, but it will disrupt your day-to-day routine since the kitchen is the focal point of most homes. In addition, mold growth is a threat when kitchen water damage goes undetected. As such, be sure to keep the above tips in mind to prevent water damage in your kitchen.

What is Water Restoration?

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let water damages be your problem. We at SERVPRO of Tupelo are here to help! 662-690-6502

The following is provided by the IICRC. 

Companies that perform water damage restoration have to be skilled in a number of areas to stay current in their field. Technicians in the industry have to combat a number of threats, some visible and some invisible, before their job is done. Structural weakening, chemical runoff, electrical hazards, dangerous wildlife, and deadly microbes are all common risks technicians have to contend with. Without the proper education and equipment, a technician risks grave injury and may leave health risks behind for a family to encounter. Fortunately, technicians in the industry have access to the educational resources offered by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or IICRC.

After getting certified in water damage restoration and a number of related fields, a professional in the field will be able to identify and neutralize any problems they are likely to face at a job site. In most cases, a technician is called to a home following a flood or plumbing disaster. In either case, the initial threat a technician has to encounter is hazardous standing liquid. Floods and sewage backups are normally host to dangerous chemicals, like oil runoff, bacteria and viruses. Before any repairs can be done on the home, a technician will need to be outfitted with the proper safety wear and begin investigating where the liquid is pooling. Moisture meters can detect the level of moisture in and behind drywall, carpet, and other areas. Using minimally-invasive tools, a technician can quickly find pockets of heavy moisture in areas not readily accessible.

This is important because only thorough drying will ensure that further destruction does not occur. Most companies use a combination of industrial  air movers and dehumidifiers to extract moisture from both materials and the air. This process can take some time, but diagnostic tools like moisture meters help technicians monitor the drying process. Once all of the materials inside the home have reached safe levels, mold and other microbial growth can be halted.

The most severe threats a water damage restoration company has to deal with are molds and other pathogens. These  contaminants can remain a major hazard for years after they have taken root, and can cause insidious health problems while remaining hidden in vents or behind walls. Trained technicians are capable of neutralizing molds and other pathogens by utilizing special  cleaning products and quickly removing compromised materials. Being able to identify mold growth is an important skill for a professional, and stemming the growth of a colony can be the difference between saving a home and having to condemn it. Certified firms are capable of quickly working through a property and disposing of anything that is beyond repair. Anything that is salvageable but soaked is separated, cleaned properly, and promptly dried. If the building’s structural integrity has been affected, these technicians can identify it and alert the homeowner and the insurance representative to its presence.

Without professional help, a homeowner will never know for sure that their home is safe to live in again. This is why the help of a certified technician is so valuable. They don’t just repair homes, they restore normalcy.

Though IICRC does not in fact operate its own school, it does recommend the best water damage restoration technician training courses per industry standards

Time is of the essence after a major water disaster. Though Journeyman-certified technicians may be the right choice for water damage that does not threaten structural integrity, it is vital to bring an IICRC certified Master professional to the scene of a major disaster as soon as possible. Certified professionals use the skills they’ve learned in the accreditation courses to examine the structure, textiles, and the belongings, and will likely be able to control the damage, so no further damage will occur.

Furthermore, knowing the fastest and best means of drying the structure and textiles is imperative. Familiarity with the most effective processes and safest compounds to stop the spread of molds and microbes is also needed to protect people and animals in the environment. Graduates of the relevant IICRC-approved classes excel in these areas.

The importance of providing customer satisfaction cannot be over-emphasized. Each  certified technician  must pass a stringent series of exams prior to acceptance, and continual training is required. Complaints are taken seriously and must be handled promptly to ensure continued accreditation as a certified firm.

Water damage restoration technician training is a surefire way to  insure the latest and greatest procedures are used to protect a customer’s property. There are various courses of study and ways to learn the information, so IICRC works with both the consumer and the professional to guarantee the best experience.

Water Damage - The Equipment Best For The Job

1/5/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo has a large variety of equipment. This is a picture of a dehumidifier we use on nearly every water damage.

SERVPRO of Tupelo understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERPVRO of Tupelo will answer you call with fast action, exceptional equipment, and trained, uniformed personnel. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation, but perhaps more important, these water damage professionals thoroughly understand how to dry a structure and person property effectively. 

In a previous blog, we've talked about Psychrometrics, Detection Equipment, Extraction Equipment, and Air Moving Equipment. Today I would like to explain in detail how different Dehumidification Equipment and Deodorization Equipment. 

Dehumidification Equipment: By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity , which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged structure, dehumidifiers pull in the moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials. SERVPRO of Tupelo uses two types of dehumidifiers:

  • Refrigerant Dehumidifiers  - work similarly to air conditioners 
  • Desiccant Dehumidifiers - use chemicals, called desiccants, that readily absorb moisture from the air.

Deodorization Equipment:

  • Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing fine mist that easily penetrates sites where odor-causing residues accumulate. The device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other difficult-to-access areas.
  • Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products in large volume, dense fog suitable for confined areas. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that pair with and neutralize odor-causing particles. 

SERVPRO of Tupelo is available 24/7. Please call us today for all of your water and fire damage needs at 662-690-6502. 

Water Damage from Clean Water

12/30/2016 (Permalink)

Water damages can happen to anyone, anywhere. Call SERVPRO of Tupelo today! We will make it "Like it never even happened."

When you have a "Clean Water" water damage that is considered a Category 1 Water Damage. That water does not pose substantial threat to humans. Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.

If you have a Category 1 or a "Clean Water" Water Damage at your home or business here are some tips to follow: 

DO:

  • Shut off the water source of water if possible, or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet ares of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
  • Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
  • Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
  • Use wood clothes pins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
  • Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors.
  • Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature. 

DON'T:

  • Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist. 
  • Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment  are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
  • Leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet to cause staining. 
  • Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
  • Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.
  • Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
  • Turn on ceiling fans if ceiling is wet, or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

SERVPRO of Tupelo is available 24 hours 7 days a week. Please call us today if you have a water damage at your home or business at 662-690-6502.

SERVPRO of Tupelo also offers the following services:

  • Fire, Smoke, and Soot
  • Water Removal & Dehumidification
  • Mold Mitigation & Remediation
  • Catastrophic Storm Response
  • Move Outs & Contents Restoration
  • Electronics & Equipment
  • Document Drying
  • Contents Claim Inventory Service
  • Air Ducts & HVAC Cleaning
  • Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleaning
  • Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes & Blinds Cleaning
  • Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors Cleaning
  • Odor Identification 
  • Deodorization

Winter Weather Preparedness

12/15/2016 (Permalink)

When Winter Weather Strikes...SERVPRO of Tupelo Strikes Back!!

SERVPRO of Tupelo is here is to help in any winter weather condition you may experience in your home or business. When winter weather strikes...we strick back! 

Here are some tips to help prepare your home and business for winter weather: 

1. Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.

2. Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.

3. Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off vavle in the basement or crawl space and turn it to "off". 

4. Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debri accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.

5. Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks. 

6. Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause brances to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.

7. Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.

8. Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.

9. Let your Marketing Rep at SERVPRO of Tupelo start a Disaster Recovery Plan for your business. It will be too late before you realize you need it! 

Important Information - Water Damages the SERVPRO way!

10/19/2016 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Tupelo at the first sign of your water damage. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened." Call today at 662-690-6502.

In order for SERVPRO of Tupelo to start our emergency and restoration service, you must sign the "Service Authorization Form". This allows us to take action immediately. We do not know your insurance coverage; therefore; it is impossible for us to know exactly what your insurance will cover. it is important to understand you are financially responsible for our services. Your deductible is payable before we start work. If for any reason insurance coverage cannot be verified at the time of our emergency service, and additional deposit may be required.

HOW WE PROCEED:

The following steps may be completed in the emergency service, as determined to be applicable by SERVPRO of Tupelo:

  • Identify Source: We will check for the source of moisture in your building. The source must be stopped before any restoration or drying of the building can be successful.
  • Identify Water Type: We will identify the category and classification of water damage to ensure we restore your property based on industry guidelines. The level of contamination of the water will affect the specific restoration processes we use. Those levels include clean, grey, or black water.
  • Survey Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises: We inspect and test the damaged area to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration. In addition, we will inspect for safety concerns which may be evident. If there are any safety issues or you are aware of any asbestos containing materials before our arrival, please bring them to our attention.
  • Identify Signs of Visible Mold Growth: Visible mold growth and moldy, musty odors may indicate the source of a moisture or water intrusion. if extensive mold is evident, we will need to consult your adjuster or property manager before completing additional work.
  • Furniture Moved and Blocked in Place: We move furniture and property contents and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpet.
  • Emergency Water Extraction: We remove as much excess water as possible from affected areas.
  • Carpet Pad: We check whether the carpet pad should be removed to save or protect the subfloor.
  • Treatments: Our process may utilize deodorizers as odor treatments or EPA-registered disinfectants as antimicrobial treatments.
  • Disposal: We will remove and dispose of damaged materials with guidance from you and your adjuster.
  • Floor and Wall Inspection: We check the extent of wet flooring, subfloors, and walls.
  • Carpet: We examine carpet for damages and remove damaged carpet with guidance from you and your adjuster.
  • Measure Temperature/Humidity for Drying Analysis: We monitor the temperature and humidity levels to make sure conditions are conductive for drying.
  • Equipment: Drying equipment removes moisture and brings the relative humidity level back to normal. We monitor moisture in we materials until the materials return acceptable drying goals.

Understanding the Equipment We Use

7/6/2016 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage call SERVPRO of Tupelo today!! (662) 690-6502

The Right Equipment

SERVPRO of Tupelo understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. We at SERVPRO of Tupelo will answer your call with fast action, exceptional equipment, and trained, uniformed professionals. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation, but perhaps more important, we are water damage professionals that thoroughly understand how to dry a structure and personal property effectively.

Detection Equipment

Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure affected by water and defining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Moisture detection devices are also used to verifty that an environment has been dried thoroughly.

  • Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls.
  • Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials.
  • Thermohygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity.

Extraction Equipment

The most effective method of removing moisture from a structure is extraction. This is why it is critical to respond quickly to a water damage and to provide emergency mitigation services. When the water is extracted quickly, the environment can usually be dried much faster.

Air Moving Equipment

Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level, thereby reducting drying time. As airflow at the surface level increases, the moisture in the air increases. The moisture is then eliminated via the use of dehumidification equipment.

Dehumidification Equipment

By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity, which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged structure, dehumidifiers pull in moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials.

Call SERPVRO of Tupelo at (662) 690-6502 if you need help with your water damage today!!

Water Damage Categories You Should Be Familiar With

5/18/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen anywhere at anytime!

Did you know there were three different water categories? When you become a victim of a water damage, SERVPRO of Tupelo will inspect the contaminated water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your home or business. 

Here is an explanation of each of the different water categories:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 water depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

  • Water from a clean source like a broken water line
  • If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

  • May contain bacteria and viruses
  • Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

  • May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
  • Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Emergency Service - Call us at (662) 690-6502

Sewage backup should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. We are the water damage restoration specialists with specific training and expertise to safely restore your home or business.

Air Conditioning Leak in Tupelo, MS turns into Water Damage

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage from air conditioner leak in Tupelo,MS

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Tupelo provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Tupelo arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 –(662) 690-6502

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
  • A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode.
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
  • Paint begins to blister.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Tupelo:

SERVPRO of Tupelo specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. 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.

Hot Water Heaters in your Attic Can Cause Major Water Damage

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

Hot water heaters in attics can cause major water damage!

One pipe leak can result in major water damage throughout many rooms in a home. When a hot water heater leaks in the attic it can cause damage in several rooms below. Typically in these situations, you don't know there is a problem until it's too late!

SERVPRO of Tupelo is equiped to respond to these type of water damage the same day the job is called in. We will extract the water, remove damaged structure, and set up drying equipment. We will monitor the job daily until all structure is dry!

It is recommended that you check your hot water heater on a regular basis, especially if it's in your attic. When your hot water heater is in your attic it is even more important to keep a maintenance schedule and to stick to that schedule. If your hot water heater is slowly leaking, it won't take much time for the pan to begin to overflow from a 50 gallon water tank. The bottom of the water tank can then rust. Also, the leak can cause moisture in the air that can then cause mold!

Things we don't see often, or ever for that matter are easy to forget! If you are a victim of a hot water heater water damage, call us at SERVPRO of Tupelo today! (662) 690-6502

Drains backed up

4/25/2016 (Permalink)

Brad from New Albany, MS called due to his drains backed up all over house affecting 4 rooms. He states there is a big mess and is not sure where to start. SERVPRO of Tupelo was called in to help him during his time of need and has extracted all of the water. The drying process has began and the customer is at ease now knowing the professional crew is assisting him. 

Sewage backup

4/11/2016 (Permalink)

Priscilla woke up to a foul odor in her home in Tupelo, MS. After walking into her master bathroom, she found the sewage had backed up & flooded several rooms in her home. SERVPRO of Tupelo was called to assist her during this devastating time. They have extracted all of the water & began the drying process.

Flooded upstairs

2/15/2016 (Permalink)

A customer in Tupelo, MS had a toilet leak that was so severe that is caused the ceiling to cave in. It affected not only 3 rooms upstairs, but also 2 more rooms downstairs. The lady was so thankful when SERVPRO of Tupelo responded to her call & began cleaning up the mess. 

Ice maker line broke

2/4/2016 (Permalink)

Joey come home this afternoon after being out of town due to business & found a mess. His ice maker line had broken & water is standing. The production technicians of SERVPRO of Tupelo are in route to begin extracting the water & scope the home to see what damage has been done.

Unknown water source

1/13/2016 (Permalink)

A commercial business in New Albany, MS called last night due to a water leak from an unknown source. SERVPRO of Tupelo responded to the call and was onsite to begin the water mitigation service within an hour.

Flooded basement

1/11/2016 (Permalink)

A hot water heater line busted causing a customer's basement to flood in Tupelo, MS during the weekend. SERVPRO of Tupelo was called in to extract the water. The customer was very pleased with the prompt & profesional service provided.

Commercial & Residential Water Damages

12/28/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point has been busy during the holidays. Numerous calls have come in from Amory & surrounding areas due to all of the rain flooding homes & businesses. 

Flooded home in Pontotoc, MS

12/21/2015 (Permalink)

After being out of the home all day with Christmas festivites, a customer in Pontotoc, MS came home to an unexpected circumstance. His home was flooded due to a water line to the hot water heater breaking. SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point was dispatched & upon arrival began the water mitigatin process.

Supply line broke under sink

12/17/2015 (Permalink)

A customer in Ecru, MS has been out of town for 4 days, & come home to a disaster. The supply line broke under the sink in the kitchen & flooded several rooms in their home. SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point responded to the customer's desperate need of help. 

Commercial Water Damage

12/16/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo has been very busy this week extracting water & cleaning after a large water damage at a commercial business in Nettleton, MS. 

Area Flooding

11/18/2015 (Permalink)

Numerous customers have called from the Northeast MS region today due to all of the rain causing flooding of homes & high winds causing trees to fall on homes. SERVPRO of Tupelo & SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point have been very busy, and attentive to each customer during their time of need. 

Entire home flooded

11/13/2015 (Permalink)

A customer in Holly Springs, MS walked into his home this afternoon and knew something wasn't right because there was water over the top of his boots when he walked in. SERVPRO of Tupelo responded to his call to begin the water extraction. 

Broken pipe under sink

11/6/2015 (Permalink)

A customer in Houston, MS called with a broken pipe underneath the kitchen sink. SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point responded to the call & have began extracting the water from several room of the home. 

Pipe leak

10/19/2015 (Permalink)

Being woke up to a flooded home was not what a customer in Tupelo, MS expected on a Monday morning. A pipe had leaked all night in an upstairs bathroom & leaked threw the ceiling into a downstairs bedroom. After her call to the insurance company, she called SERVPRO of Tupelo, & was so relieved when the technicians arrived within an hour of her call.

Ice maker line broke

10/8/2015 (Permalink)

A customer in Blue Springs, MS called today in a panic because she come home to a flooded kitchen due to the ice maker line breaking on her fridge. SERVPRO of Tupelo are in route to her home to begin extracting the water & try save the new carpet she just had installed in her living room.

Washing machine hose busted

10/6/2015 (Permalink)

A lady in Houston, MS called yesterday stating she had water everywhere & was in desperate need of some help. SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point responed to the call & had her stress relieved.

Water heater leak

9/22/2015 (Permalink)

A customer from Belden, MS called today stating he's out of town & his friend come by to check on his home. He found the water heater had been leaking for several days. His insurance company suggested he call SERVPRO of Tupelo. Our professional technicians are at his home now extracting the water.

Toilet leak

9/15/2015 (Permalink)

A toilet leak upstairs in a customer's home has cause some serioius damage. SERVPRO of Tupelo has been on the scene extracting water from carpet & beginning the water restoration process.

Repeat Customer

9/14/2015 (Permalink)

A customer we helped during the tornado of 2014 in Tupelo, MS called today with a pipe busted under her concrete slab. She was very upset about her situation, but stated she knew SERVPRO of Tupelo would assure her home was back to preloss conditon as soon as possible.

Residential Water Restoration

9/8/2015 (Permalink)

A customer in Pontotoc, MS had a water leak in her basement over the weekend. SERVPRO of Tupelo was called in to clean up the mess & begin restoration. 

Commercial Water Damage

9/4/2015 (Permalink)

Our professionally trained technicians are busy extracting water from a commercial water damage in Aberdeen, MS. Call us for your commercial water restoration needs.

A/C leak

8/28/2015 (Permalink)

Wanda in Houston, MS come home from a long week to find her ac leaking. One quick call to SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point, & all of worries have been taken away. 

Pipe busted

8/26/2015 (Permalink)

A pipe busted under Wanda's sink in Maben, MS. SERVPRO Of Tupelo has responded to help her during this devastating time.