Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts
How to Prevent Damage During a Wind Storm
2/27/2024 (Permalink)
Fallen tree on a home in Metro Detroit due to a major wind storm
Even a wind storm can have disastrous effects on your property. That’s why it’s important to make a plan in advance to limit storm damage. Follow these tips so you know what to do before, during, and after a wind storm.
What To Do In Advance:
Wind damage comes from a variety of storms and each has its own ways to prepare. Be sure that everyone in your home or business knows what to do in case of the most likely storms for your area. If you operate a store, restaurant, or other business that deals with many members of the public at once, be sure your staff knows how to escort them to shelter.
- Stock up on emergency supplies. Be sure the first aid kit is stocked and the flashlights have working batteries. A generator can power a house and costs a few hundred dollars - which may be well worth your money when you are without it for an extended amount of time. Solar panels that can charge cell phones are available online for under $50 as well.
- Know how to turn off utilities or override electronics. Depending on any wind or flood damage, you may need to turn off the water or circuit box. If the power goes out, cars will be stuck inside a garage with an electric opener unless you know how to use the manual override.
- Give the roof a checkup. Be sure there aren’t any loose or missing shingles that could blow away during a storm or let in rain. It’s better to make repairs during good weather than to try to get a tarp over a hole in the roof during a thunderstorm.
- Check the perimeter. When you know a storm is on the way, do a quick check outside if there’s enough time. Put lawn furniture in the shed, pick up toys, put cars and bicycles in the garage, and fasten loose items, like patio umbrellas. Not only will these items blow away in a storm, but they can cause a great deal of damage in the process. A lawn chair can shatter a window, while a bike can put a huge dent in a car. Be sure to close any awnings too; even a mild wind storm can tear fabric from the frame.
- Back up your computers frequently. If your electronics suffer flood damage or any kind of storm damage, you’ll be glad you took the time to back up your files. Cloud backup services are available for free from Dropbox, Google, and other providers for a set amount of data and extra amounts of storage can be purchased for a nominal fee. The advantage of a cloud backup service is that you can access them from anywhere; if your home or business is damaged, you can use a computer or smart device anywhere that has internet access.
- Be sure you have a weather app on your smartphone and enable severe weather alerts. You won’t be near a TV or computer for every storm, so you need a way to check on the severity of storms and know when to take cover.
We do experience heavy thunderstorms in Michigan with very strong winds. so make sure you take the time to go over these precautionary steps. If you do suffer damage to your home or business call at SERVPRO of Rochester at (248) 608-2667
How to Prevent Damage During a Wind Storm
9/14/2022 (Permalink)
Fallen tree on a home in Metro Detroit due to a major wind storm
Even a wind storm can have disastrous effects on your property. That’s why it’s important to make a plan in advance to limit storm damage. Follow these tips so you know what to do before, during, and after a wind storm.
What To Do In Advance:
Wind damage comes from a variety of storms and each has its own ways to prepare. Be sure that everyone in your home or business knows what to do in case of the most likely storms for your area. If you operate a store, restaurant, or other business that deals with many members of the public at once, be sure your staff knows how to escort them to shelter.
- Stock up on emergency supplies. Be sure the first aid kit is stocked and the flashlights have working batteries. A generator can power a house and costs a few hundred dollars - which may be well worth your money when you are without it for an extended amount of time. Solar panels that can charge cell phones are available online for under $50 as well.
- Know how to turn off utilities or override electronics. Depending on any wind or flood damage, you may need to turn off the water or circuit box. If the power goes out, cars will be stuck inside a garage with an electric opener unless you know how to use the manual override.
- Give the roof a checkup. Be sure there aren’t any loose or missing shingles that could blow away during a storm or let in rain. It’s better to make repairs during good weather than to try to get a tarp over a hole in the roof during a thunderstorm.
- Check the perimeter. When you know a storm is on the way, do a quick check outside if there’s enough time. Put lawn furniture in the shed, pick up toys, put cars and bicycles in the garage, and fasten loose items, like patio umbrellas. Not only will these items blow away in a storm, but they can cause a great deal of damage in the process. A lawn chair can shatter a window, while a bike can put a huge dent in a car. Be sure to close any awnings too; even a mild wind storm can tear fabric from the frame.
- Back up your computers frequently. If your electronics suffer flood damage or any kind of storm damage, you’ll be glad you took the time to back up your files. Cloud backup services are available for free from Dropbox, Google, and other providers for a set amount of data and extra amounts of storage can be purchased for a nominal fee. The advantage of a cloud backup service is that you can access them from anywhere; if your home or business is damaged, you can use a computer or smart device anywhere that has internet access.
- Be sure you have a weather app on your smartphone and enable severe weather alerts. You won’t be near a TV or computer for every storm, so you need a way to check on the severity of storms and know when to take cover.
We do experience heavy thunderstorms in Michigan with very strong winds. so make sure you take the time to go over these precautionary steps. If you do suffer damage to your home or business call at SERVPRO of Rochester at (248) 608-2667
Sewage Backup Clean Up
7/20/2022 (Permalink)
Sewage Back up causes damage to the basement after Storm rips through Metro Detroit
If disaster strikes causing damage to your home, call the Professionals at SERVPRO® of Rochester to Help you clean up the mess. We are ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."
Whatever the storm, we will be there to help. Whether it's a summer storm, a winter storm, or something in between, we are faster to any size disaster that you may experience when unpredictable weather damages the Metro Detroit area. Rochester homeowners know that the weather can range from polar vortexes to tornadoes and the potential for damage can be extreme.
Our Experienced Team will be there to dry out and clean up your home or business. As a customer, you have the right to choose who helps you with your water damage clean-up.
Trust SERVPRO® of Rochester (248) 608-2667
Ready to Rebuild After a Storm?
7/14/2022 (Permalink)
Basement is destroyed by a broken pipe during a winter storm
Michigan can have some pretty crazy weather! No matter if it’s a summer storm or a winter storm, they can cause damage to many homes in the Metro Detroit area. SERVPRO technicians were called out to water damage only to find the entire home had water damage and was frozen. The furnace failed, causing the pipes to freeze and break. Most ceilings, walls, and flooring needed to be removed entirely after the water damage. The Homeowners are now ready to rebuild after the storm, they are in the process of adding drywall, flooring, cabinets, and fixtures.When your business is damaged by water damage, we will be there fast with the help you need.
Step 1 - Emergency Contact
The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.
Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.
Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.
Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification
We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.
Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing
We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and remove odors and deodorize your property.
Step 6 - Restoration
Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
Call Us Today – (248) 608-2667
How to Deal With Damage After Heavy Rain Storms
6/1/2022 (Permalink)
Collapsed ceiling from heavy rain
With heavy, wind-driven rains over several days, water leaked into a bedroom ceiling in Farmington. SERVPRO of Rochester was called out to clean up the damage. Our crew was able to minimize the damage by putting a tarp over the leak on the roof. Contents needed to be moved out and cleaned from the room and then technicians were able to remove the affected insulation and drywall and dry out the ceiling.
Damage to Your Roof?
Often leaks are due to defective or failing flashing or caulk, but it is possible that you may have actual damage to your roof. A fallen tree limb or shingles that have blown off from the wind can also be sources of the leak.
Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your home, you need a company with storm damage experience and expertise. SERVPRO of Rochester can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.
To GET HELP call SERVPRO (248) 608-2667
Flooding From Storms Causes Damage to Homes and Businesses
10/21/2021 (Permalink)
Sewage Back up causes damage to the basement after Storm rips through Metro Detroit
If disaster strikes causing damage to your home, call the Professionals at SERVPRO® of Rochester to Help you clean up the mess. We are ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."
Whatever the storm, we will be there to help. Whether its a summer storm, a winter storm, or something in between, we are faster to any size disaster that you may experience when unpredictable weather damages the Metro Detroit area. Rochester homeowners know that the weather can range from polar vortexes to tornadoes and the potential for damage can be extreme.
Our Experienced Team will be there to dry out and clean up your home or business. As a customer, you have the right to choose who helps you with your water damage clean up.
Trust SERVPRO® of Rochester (248) 608-2667
Summer Storm Clean Up in Michigan
10/5/2021 (Permalink)
Summer storms cause basements to flood in a Metro Detroit suburb
The SERVPRO of Rochester team work hard to clean up basements after a large amount of rain fell in the Oakland and Wayne County area this summer. Unfortunately, we cannot control the rains. The overwhelmed sewers and saturated ground sent contaminated water into basements, crawl spaces, and foundations. Having a Professional assessment from a reputable flood recovery company is always recommended.
Calling SERVPRO of Rochester after a flood damage will increase the chances of a safe cleanup. The SERVPRO crews are ready to remove the contaminated water and dry out your home. If the water is left standing in your home, you could increase the risk for Mold. It can take as little as 48 -72 hours for mold to grow and be visible.
Whether you are filing an insurance claim, or you are paying directly out of pocket, SERVPRO of Rochester can walk you through the job process and provide an estimate with industry standard pricing for all the work that needs to be performed to clean up the water.
Call us at (248) 608-2667 we are here to help!
Flooded Basement Clean Up in Rochester Hills Michigan
9/13/2021 (Permalink)
Drain backup after a storm in Rochester Hills
If disaster strikes causing damage to your home, call the Professionals at SERVPRO® of Rochester to help you clean up the mess. We are ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."
Whatever the storm, we will be there to help. Whether it's a summer storm, a winter storm, or something in between, we are faster to any size disaster that you may experience when unpredictable weather damages the Metro Detroit area. Rochester homeowners know that the weather can range from polar vortexes to tornadoes and the potential for damage can be extreme.
Our Experienced Team will be there to dry out and clean up your home or business. As a customer, you have the right to choose who helps you with your water damage clean-up.
Trust SERVPRO® of Rochester (248) 608-2667
Emergency Do's and Don'ts
7/19/2021 (Permalink)
Storm in Lake Orion causes damage to a finished basement
As Michigan is currently in a rainy season, here are some emergency water damage tips to help assist you in taking proper action until our SERVPRO of Rochester technicians arrive.
Emergency Water Damage Tips:
- Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
- Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the home or building if you have safe access to the power distribution panel.
- Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting or flooring.
- Move any artwork, computers, documents, and other items with sentimental value to a dry place.
- Don’t enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. ALWAYS avoid electrical shock hazards.
- Don’t use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, this could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
- Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
If you experience a water damage call SERVPRO of Rochester at (248) 608-2667
Moisture Reading of a Wet Surface
7/14/2021 (Permalink)
Moisture reading of a wet surface
When your home or business floods our SERVPRO of Rochester technicians have the proper tools to make sure your space is dry and returned to a preloss condition as quickly as possible.
Shown in the picture is a very important tool we use called a moisture meter - this is how we detect where moisture is (what is wet) and how close we are to having it completely dry during our monitor appointments.
This particular meter a non-destructive overall building inspection moisture meter which has the perfect features for our industry. It has many unique features that make moisture measurement and evaluation fast, precise and versatile.
Features
- Wide range of readings for wood from 5% to 30%.
- Deep signal penetration to over 1" into the materials being tested without the need to damage the surface. Signal penetration depends on the material being tested and the meter setting.
- Three ranges of sensitivity: Wood & Timber / Drywall & Roofing / Plaster & Brick – making it ideal for testing moisture conditions in various building materials.
- Detects moisture through paint, wall coatings, drywall, ceramic tiles, floor coverings, wood, roof coverings, and ceiling tiles.
- High moisture audio warning tone.
You can trust that SERVPRO of Rochester will dry out your space with the proper drying equipment.
Roof Tarp Needed After Wind Storm in Farmington Hills
6/10/2021 (Permalink)
Roof tarp on a home in Farmington Hills
From smashed cars to knocked over trees to downed power lines, the recent windstorm wreaked havoc on Michigan. Winds nearing 70 mph in some areas caused widespread damage across Michigan, leaving more than 857,000 homes and businesses without power. Our technicians at SERVPRO of Rochester were called out to board up and tarp this roof in Farmington Hills, MI after a large tree uprooted and tore down the upper half of their home due to the high winds. We arrived immediately to make this customers home livable and safe until tree removal services and construction were underway.
A windstorm can cause hurricane-force winds, tornadoes, heavy rains, and flash floods.
To give you some perspective on just how large this windstorm was; it left 1 million without power and the air pressure was that of a category 2 hurricane. During a windstorm make sure that your home, your business, and your family are safe and prepared for the worst. ALWAYS keep SERVPRO of Rochester's phone number handy for situations like these.
From Wet to Dry - The Drying Chamber
10/22/2020 (Permalink)
With our drying chamber and document restoration processes, priceless family photos and valuable documents can be salvaged if damaged from water
With our drying chamber and document restoration processes, priceless family photos and valuable documents can be salvaged if damaged during a water loss.
Many restoration companies see water saturated items as a total loss or unsalvageable, but at SERVPRO of Rochester we have been able to recover our customers valuable items that may seem irreparable due to water damage.
Our team recently completed a large water, fire, and mold job (the ultimate trifecta) at an apartment complex after one of the units caught on fire due to a lightning strike. After the fire was put out by the firefighters, it sat for two weeks while under investigation causing extensive water and mold damage. The tenants were not allowed in due to the dangerous conditions and were told nothing would be able to be recovered. Our pack out crew immediately went to work to salvage as much as possible for these customers.
We were able to recover items such as precious photos and documents, oil paintings, clothing, antique furniture, and much more by using our advanced drying processes such as the drying chamber. Fast forward to a few weeks later, the tenants are in their new apartments and have been reunited with their belongings in pristine condition.
The Importance of Moisture Meters
10/5/2020 (Permalink)
Meter reading of a wet surface
When your home or business floods our SERVPRO of Rochester technicians have the proper tools to make sure your space is dry and returned to a preloss condition as quickly as possible.
Shown in the picture is a very important tool we use called a moisture meter - this is how we detect where moisture is (what is wet) and how close we are to having it completely dry during our monitor appointments.
This particular meter a non-destructive overall building inspection moisture meter which has the perfect features for our industry. It has many unique features that make moisture measurement and evaluation fast, precise, and versatile.
Features
- Wide range of readings for wood from 5% to 30%.
- Deep signal penetration to over 1" into the materials being tested without the need to damage the surface. Signal penetration depends on the material being tested and meter setting.
- Three ranges of sensitivity: Wood & Timber / Drywall & Roofing / Plaster & Brick – making it ideal for testing moisture conditions in various building materials.
- Detects moisture through paint, wall coatings, drywall, ceramic tiles, floor coverings, wood, roof coverings, and ceiling tiles.
- High moisture audio warning tone.
You can trust that SERVPRO of Rochester will dry out your space with the proper drying equipment.
How to Prepare for a Windstorm to Minimize Damage
9/14/2020 (Permalink)
A tree fell on the roof of a home after a severe windstorm in Oakland county, MI
Even a wind storm can have disastrous effects on your property. That’s why it’s important to make a plan in advance to limit storm damage. Follow these tips so you know what to do before, during, and after a wind storm.
What To Do In Advance:
Wind damage comes from a variety of storms and each has its own ways to prepare. Be sure that everyone in your home or business knows what to do in case of the most likely storms for your area. If you operate a store, restaurant, or other business that deals with many members of the public at once, be sure your staff knows how to escort them to shelter.
- Stock up on emergency supplies. Be sure the first aid kit is stocked and the flashlights have working batteries. A generator can power a house and costs a few hundred dollars - which may be well worth your money when you are without it for an extended amount of time. Solar panels that can charge cell phones are available online for under $50 as well.
- Know how to turn off utilities or override electronics. Depending on any wind or flood damage, you may need to turn off the water or circuit box. If the power goes out, cars will be stuck inside a garage with an electric opener unless you know how to use the manual override.
- Give the roof a checkup. Be sure there aren’t any loose or missing shingles that could blow away during a storm or let in rain. It’s better to make repairs during good weather than to try to get a tarp over a hole in the roof during a thunderstorm.
- Check the perimeter. When you know a storm is on the way, do a quick check outside if there’s enough time. Put lawn furniture in the shed, pick up toys, put cars and bicycles in the garage, and fasten loose items, like patio umbrellas. Not only will these items blow away in a storm, but they can cause a great deal of damage in the process. A lawn chair can shatter a window, while a bike can put a huge dent in a car. Be sure to close any awnings too; even a mild wind storm can tear fabric from the frame.
- Back up your computers frequently. If your electronics suffer flood damage or any kind of storm damage, you’ll be glad you took the time to back up your files. Cloud backup services are available for free from Dropbox, Google, and other providers for a set amount of data and extra amounts of storage can be purchased for a nominal fee. The advantage of a cloud backup service is that you can access them from anywhere; if your home or business is damaged, you can use a computer or smart device anywhere that has internet access.
- Be sure you have a weather app on your smartphone and enable severe weather alerts. You won’t be near a TV or computer for every storm, so you need a way to check on the severity of storms and know when to take cover.
We do experience heavy thunderstorms in Michigan with very strong winds. so make sure you take the time to go over these precautionary steps. If you do suffer damage to your home or business call at SERVPRO of Rochester at (248) 608-2667
Hurricane Irma Cleanup
8/24/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Rochester Cleanup - Hurricane Irma
Tips for Being Prepared for a Flood:
Before the Flood:
- Have a qualified professional elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
- Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home or business.
- Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage.
During the Flood:
- Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
- Disconnect electrical appliances.
- Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
- Do not walk through moving water. Even six inches of moving water can make you fall.
After the Flood:
- Listen for news reports to learn if the community's water supply is safe to drink.
- Avoid floodwaters. Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged.
- Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
- Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
Flooding From Storms Causes Damage to Homes and Businesses
7/24/2020 (Permalink)
Sewage Back up causes damage to the basement after Storm rips through Metro Detroit
If disaster strikes causing damage to your home, call the Professionals at SERVPRO® of Rochester to Help you clean up the mess. We are ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."
Whatever the storm, we will be there to help. Whether its a summer storm, a winter storm, or something in between, we are faster to any size disaster that you may experience when unpredictable weather damages the Metro Detroit area. Rochester homeowners know that the weather can range from polar vortexes to tornadoes and the potential for damage can be extreme.
Our Experienced Team will be there to dry out and clean up your home or business. As a customer, you have the right to choose who helps you with your water damage clean up.
Trust SERVPRO® of Rochester (248) 608-2667
Emergency Do's and Dont's
6/3/2020 (Permalink)
Storm in Lake Orion causes damage to a finished basement.
As Michigan is currently in a rainy season, here are some emergency water damage tips to help assist you in taking proper action until our SERVPRO of Rochester technicians arrive.
Emergency Water Damage Tips:
- Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
- Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the home or building if you have safe access to the power distribution panel.
- Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting or flooring.
- Move any artwork, computers, documents, and other items with sentimental value to a dry place.
- Don’t enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. ALWAYS avoid electrical shock hazards.
- Don’t use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, this could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
- Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
If you experience a water damage call SERVPRO of Rochester at (248) 608-2667
Rainfall Causes Historic Flooding in Metro Detroit
10/1/2019 (Permalink)
Historic Flooding in Metro Detroit
The SERVPRO of Rochester team work hard to clean up basements after a large amount of rain fell in the Oakland and Wayne County area. Unfortunately, we cannot control the rains. The overwhelmed sewers and saturated ground sent contaminated water into basements, crawl spaces, and foundations. Having a Professional assessment from a reputable flood recovery company is always recommended.
Calling SERVPRO of Rochester after a flood damage will increase the chances of a safe cleanup. The SERVPRO crews are ready to remove the contaminated water and dry out your home. If the water is left standing in your home, you could increase the risk for Mold. It can take as little as 48 -72 hours for mold to grow and be visible.
Whether you are filing an insurance claim, or you are paying directly out of pocket, SERVPRO of Rochester can walk you through the job process and provide an estimate with industry standard pricing for all the work that needs to be performed to clean up the water.
Call us at (248) 608-2667 we are here to help!
The Importance of Moisture Meters
10/1/2019 (Permalink)
Meter reading of a wet surface
When your home or business floods our SERVPRO of Rochester technicians have the proper tools to make sure your space is dry and returned to a preloss condition as quickly as possible.
Shown in the picture is a very important tool we use called a moisture meter - this is how we detect where moisture is (what is wet) and how close we are to having it completely dry during our monitor appointments.
This particular meter a non-destructive overall building inspection moisture meter which has the perfect features for our industry. It has many unique features that make moisture measurement and evaluation fast, precise and versatile.
Features
- Wide range of readings for wood from 5% to 30%.
- Deep signal penetration to over 1" into the materials being tested without the need to damage the surface. Signal penetration depends on the material being tested and meter setting.
- Three ranges of sensitivity: Wood & Timber / Drywall & Roofing / Plaster & Brick – making it ideal for testing moisture conditions in various building materials.
- Detects moisture through paint, wall coatings, drywall, ceramic tiles, floor coverings, wood, roof coverings, and ceiling tiles.
- High moisture audio warning tone.
You can trust that SERVPRO of Rochester will dry out your space with the proper drying equipment.
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