Your Reliable Partner During A Water Loss

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Central Tulsa TODAY! (918)-271-5922

Experiencing a flooded house in Tulsa, OK, can be a stressful and overwhelming situation. Your immediate actions are crucial to minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of yourself and your loved ones. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do when your house floods:

1. Ensure Personal Safety:

Before entering the flooded area, prioritize safety. Turn off the electricity, especially if water levels are high, to avoid the risk of electrocution. If you're unsure about turning off the power, wait for professional assistance. Wear appropriate protective gear like rubber boots and gloves when dealing with floodwater to avoid contamination and infections.

2. Contact Professional Help:

Call for professional water damage restoration services like SERVPRO of Central Tulsa. The sooner we arrive, the better we can assess the extent of the damage and start the restoration process. We offer 24/7 emergency services for situations like this.

3. Document the Damage:

Take photos or videos of the flooded areas and the damage caused. This documentation will be essential for insurance claims and can help with the restoration process.

4. Stop the Water Source (if possible):

If the flooding is due to a burst pipe or plumbing issue, try to stop the water source by turning off the main water supply. This step can help prevent further flooding and water damage.

     5. Prevent Future Floods:

After the immediate restoration, take steps to prevent future flooding. This may include improving drainage systems, installing sump pumps, and raising electrical outlets and appliances above the flood level.

Remember, flooding can be emotionally draining, and it's essential to seek support from family, friends, or professionals if needed. By acting quickly and efficiently, you can mitigate the damage caused by the flood and start the process of restoring your home to its pre-flood condition.

Avoiding Flooded Basements

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

Ensure gutters are regularly cleaned, especially before a storm rolls in

If your Tulsa, OK, business has a basement, chances are that you will deal with unexpected water at some point. In some cases, a basement flood may turn into an ongoing problem. Addressing the issue, finding the culprit, and getting it fixed quickly are the keys to avoiding long-term problems and extensive repairs by a flood and water restoration expert. Depending on the culprit, and if quick action isn’t taken, insurance coverage may be denied.

Sources of Water Problems

If the building is normally dry and you come across a flooded basement, nature or piping are likely culprits. The top reasons for lower-level water problems include:

Plumbing: A leaking pipe, waste line or burst pipe can unexpectedly happen. This is especially so if they are older pipes that freeze. There could also be an issue with the main sewer line.
Windows: Rainwater or ice melt can easily find its way into improperly sealed windows.
Foundation: One of the most common causes of a basement flood, this can happen from weather, improper drainage, and sewer backups.

Fixing the Issues
Once you know the culprit, there are various solutions to keeping basements dry, from simple to more complex.

Ensure gutters are regularly cleaned, especially before a storm rolls in. Check that drains are free of debris for smooth water flow.
Landscaping is an easy way to flood-proof a property. Verify that the ground level slopes away from the building. Water-loving plants and mulch can help absorb or the water or lead it way from the building.
Have your foundation and windows inspected. Depending on the issue, additional caulking, patching, or adding a sump pump could ensure a dry property.
For more serious, ongoing issues, there are various waterproofing products on the market, such as a new drainage system or exterior waterproofing.

A basement flood can cause much more than water problems. Finding and fixing the cause can help keep your business better protected.

Need to Remove Water Damage from a Tulsa Residence?

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides advanced drying equipment like this LGR-low grain refrigerant dehumidifier to mitigate Central Tulsa water damage

SERVPRO of Central Tulsa Water Removal Technicians Offer 24/7 Mitigation

Regardless of the time of year, Tulsa properties are vulnerable to water damage from structural or appliance issues that can happen seemingly out of nowhere, much to the frustration of homeowners. As a result, water–and eventually microbial growth–can potentially affect a home’s safety, indoor air quality, and the structural integrity of materials like drywall.

Extensively trained SERVPRO of Central Tulsa restoration technicians respond to cleanup calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This service includes weekends and holidays so community members can minimize home water damage while maximizing restoration potential for structures and contents.

Why Does Water Damage Smell?

Moisture tends to carry a distinctive, musty smell that is easily recognizable. However, Tulsa homeowners curious about this malodor’s origins should know the following:

• The smell does not come from the moisture itself but from bacteria or microbial growth in the water
• Mold and other microbes can spread enough to emit a noticeable odor in as little as 24- to 48 hours after water damage occurs
• Microbes thrive on a combination of relative humidity levels above 60%, lacking or inconsistent air circulation, warm temperatures, and availability of organic materials

Local SERVPRO professionals can remediate potential microbial growth and odors with commercial-grade water restoration services. Staff and franchise owners also undergo thorough training. They can pursue self-paced education modules about water damage’s effects and implement effective remediation strategies.

SERVPRO Water Mitigation Services Go Beyond Cleanup and Odor Control

SERVPRO techs’ water removal services focus primarily on safety and a restoration-first approach where possible. Some materials, like waterlogged sheetrock, are often easier and more economical to replace than simply clean and dry. Other items, like fiberglass insulation, can often be cleaned, dried, and restored successfully in a residential water damage scenario.

• Water damage remediation technicians can expel moisture from surfaces with the help of 3-system extraction units. Most surfaces on a property only require the vacuum system, but the heater and pump systems are also available for implementation during the cleaning of upholstery and carpeting
• Axial and centrifugal air movers work with low-grain refrigerant or desiccant dehumidifiers to remove, isolate, and collect moisture for disposal in a treated sewer
• Porous materials impacted by water and microbes can be treated with hydroxyl generators, which use ultraviolet light to eliminate odor-causing bacteria
• EPA-registered biocides double as sanitation and, to a lesser extent, odor control, especially when used in tandem with water damage deodorizing solutions
• SERVPRO of Central Tulsa restoration technicians can also implement build-back services after water cleanup that include drywall repairs, HVAC cleaning, and repairing tile flooring

SERVPRO professionals ensure that the water damage restoration process is successful with careful inspection and analysis with calibrated penetrating and non-penetrating sensors and meters. Potential damage behind walls and ceilings can also be detected with the help of thermal imaging cameras that can pinpoint changes in temperature consistent with wall cavity moisture exposure.

SERVPRO of Central Tulsa can be reached at (918) 271-5922 for comprehensive, emergency-response repair and restoration services.

Discover the Shine

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

If you're looking to experience the magic of a truly professional cleaning service, it's time to put your faith in SERVPRO of Central Tulsa.

Unveiling the Magic of SERVPRO's Cleaning Services

In our fast-paced world, time is of the essence, and maintaining a clean and hygienic environment has never been more critical. Whether it's a home, office, or commercial space, cleanliness plays a pivotal role in fostering a healthy and productive atmosphere. This is where SERVPRO of Central Tulsa comes in.

Expertise at its Finest:

What sets SERVPRO apart from the rest is their team of skilled and certified professionals. Equipped with the latest tools and techniques, they possess a profound understanding of various cleaning requirements. From the tiniest nooks and crannies to expansive commercial facilities, SERVPRO's experts leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of spotlessness.

Going Green:

Embracing environmental responsibility, SERVPRO incorporates eco-friendly practices into their cleaning routines. Using sustainable products and techniques, they not only protect the environment but also provide a safer and healthier living and working environment for their clients.

Disaster Recovery:

In times of distress, SERVPRO stands as a beacon of hope. Their disaster recovery services are second to none, responding swiftly to emergencies such as floods, fires, and mold infestations. Their quick and efficient action helps mitigate damage, providing a sense of relief during challenging times.

SERVPRO's cleaning services not only make spaces sparkle but also create a positive impact on the well-being of residents and occupants. With a legacy of trust, a commitment to excellence, and a passion for cleanliness, SERVPRO of Central Tulsa continues to set the standard for the cleaning industry.

Under Construction: How To Prevent Water Damage

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

Preventing water damage at your construction site increases the chance that you may never have to worry about water pipe repair.

How To Prevent Water Damage While Building

A building doesn’t have to be fully constructed to have water damage. Construction projects are often delayed by water pipe repair and the subsequent damages a busted pipe causes. To keep your construction business in Tulsa, OK, as profitable as possible, you want to prevent the flooding you can and mitigate the rest quickly.

The Cost Of Damage

Any delay during a project can cost you money. When you have to stop construction because of a broken pipe, there are several expenses involved:

• Extra labor needed to conduct the repair and rebuild the damaged area
• Mitigation charges from professional water remediation services
• Additional materials needed to rebuild the damaged section

Non-monetary costs of the delay may include damage to your reputation and potentially impatient client response. Your insurance may cover some of the financial burden, but repairing the relationship with your client is your responsibility alone.

The Prevention of Damage

Timely water pipe repair is a great solution, but it’s even better to avoid flooding in the first place. Before construction begins, create a plan for careful on-site water management. Institute a drainage system, and test pumps and plumbing before major work begins. During construction, it’s easy to let your plan fall to the wayside, so hire people to make sure your team follows the guidelines you set forth. They should monitor piping systems and help keep the air pressure in the pipes under control. Finally, keep water mitigation specialists on speed dial to ensure that, if there is a problem, you can get it resolved before a large area of your site is flooded.

Preventing water damage at your construction site increases the chance that you may never have to worry about water pipe repair. By keeping water sources closely monitored and structuring drainage systems wisely, you are more likely to stay on schedule, and that helps you please your client.

How Long Do Supply Lines Last?

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

Supply line damage is one of the most common bathroom leak causes, SERVPRO can help you to handle it, call us.

When It Comes To Supply Lines, How Long Do They Last?

Supply line damage is one of the most common bathroom leak causes. Homeowners should select line materials based on the distance of the run and other installation requirements. Learn about the lifespans of four popular supply line materials as well as the risk of a supply line leak.

Braided Stainless Steel

Braided stainless steel supply lines can be easier and faster to install than rigid lines. These lines stand out for several reasons:

• Durability
• Ideal for short runs
• No crimping or kinking

Steel braided lines may be covered by one-year to five-year warranties. Some manufacturers may offer longer warranties.

Copper

Copper is a top-of-the-line material. Several styles are available, such as chromed, flexible, or rigid lines. Copper pipes have many desirable qualities:

• Bendability to minimize joints
• Corrosion resistance
• Durability and recyclability

Solid copper pipes can withstand most supply line damage. These lines are also up to three times more expensive than plastic alternatives. Copper lines are backed by a 50-year manufacturer's warranty.

CPVC

Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride piping is relatively new to the market. CPVC is considerably less expensive than copper, but it is also brittle. A broken or degraded line can cause a major bathroom leak. This material does not corrode, pit, or scale, and can safely supply acidic water. Some manufacturers offer a 10-year warranty.

PEX

Crosslink Polyethylene is flexible and can be combined with other pipe materials with the right adapters. PEX lines require fewer fittings, which may reduce the likelihood of a supply line leak. This material also expands, which may prevent bursts. PEX lines have a 50-year average lifespan for plumbing uses, and most manufacturers provide 25-year warranties.

Homeowners should consider the look they want for visible supply lines as well as the properties and lifespan of materials. If you experience supply line damage at a residence in Tulsa, OK, contact a mitigation and restoration company.

4 Ways To Know You Have a Bathroom Leak

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

When your home requires water damage repair and restoration, SERVPRO of Central Tulsa is here to help!

Four Signs You Have a Bathroom Leak

Water can cause a tremendous amount of damage to any unsuspecting home because it can be hidden under tubs and showers in any bathroom in your home in Lortondale, Tulsa, OK. How can you know if you have a bathtub leak? Here are four signs that water has probably damaged your home due to a bathroom drip.

1. Ceiling Sogginess

Brown water stains or bulging spots in the ceiling of a two-story home often indicate a water leak in the floor above. Frequently, it is from a crack in a shower or tub surround. Water can penetrate the crack and pool on the lower ceiling. Once absorbed, it can become noticeable.

2. Floor Discoloration

Wooden trims and painted baseboards in a bathroom that suddenly warp or become discolored send out a red flag that they are absorbing water from somewhere nearby. Since the water source is probably hidden, check for cracks causing a bathtub leak or missing caulking around shower walls.

3. Crawlspace Stalactites

Most people seldom enter the crawlspace under their home. If you do and you notice a stalactite hanging from black wood, you can be assured there has been a water leak for a long time. This type of leak is often hidden under a shower pan or between tiles, causing a shower pan leak.

4. Pan Crack

If your shower pan sags, is old or has a crack, it is probably leaking into the flooring beneath it. Upon close inspection, the pan may appear to have held its integrity, but a leak as small as one-eighth of an inch long can allow water to freely drip into the lower flooring, which can eventually rot the boards.

Most bathroom cracks are small enough that they can be easily missed. If caught early, you can save a great deal of money on home repairs. That is why it is important to check for a bathtub leak and call a water repair specialty team at the first sign of trouble. You can keep unwanted water from damaging your home.

The Top 5 Causes of Home Fires

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

If your Tulsa, OK, home suffers fire damage, give SERVPRO a call. Our team of fire damage experts will restore it efficiently.

The 5 Most Common Causes of House Fires

There were at least 352,000 reported home fires in the United States in the year 2016. Fires break out for a number of reasons. Find out more about the top five home fire causes and how to prevent fires at a residence in Tulsa, OK.

1. Cooking

Kitchens are rooms where heat or open flames combine with flammable materials. The best ways to prevent cooking fires are to pay attention, keep flammable items away from heat sources, and install a suitable fire extinguisher. Store baking soda and salt near the stove and throw these substances on a grease fire before using a metal lid or another pot to smother the flames.

2. Heating

The most common causes of heating fires include malfunctioning furnaces and unattended space heaters. It is important to regularly maintain a furnace. Operate space heaters while attended and at a safe distance from flammable materials.

3. Smoking

Cigarettes pose a major home fire risk. Discourage smokers from lighting up on sofas or beds. The U.S. Fire administration recommends smoking outside and fully extinguishing cigarettes in a stable ashtray or bucket filled with sand.

4. Electrical

Overloaded extension cords, faulty outlets, light fixtures, and old wiring can cause electrical fires. Do not use appliances with worn cords or run cords under rugs. Check the maximum bulb wattage on light fixtures. Homes that are more than 20 years old may not have the wiring capacity for increased electrical usage. Having an older home rewired by a certified electrician can increase fire safety.

5. Candles

Candles cause approximately 2 percent of home fires, and one-third of these fires start in bedrooms. Only burn candles while attended, and keep combustible materials away from open flame.

Awareness of common fire causes can increase overall safety. If a home fire results in damage, a homeowner may want to hire fire cleaning and damage restoration experts.

SERVPRO of Central Tulsa Offers Comprehensive Mold Damage Cleanup

6/22/2023 (Permalink)

Mold remediation and cleanup in Central Tulsa needed? SERVPRO provides solutions, "Like it never even happened."

Where Can Tulsa Homeowners Get Safe Mold Remediation?

Home mold DIY cleanup for Tulsa properties can seem feasible at first. However, mold growth on surfaces like drywall and fibers indicates larger microbial clusters lurking in wall cavities, HVAC systems, and other home areas. Professional mold damage mitigation can prove safer and more effective for homeowners experiencing these disasters.

SERVPRO of Central Tulsa professionals use mold inspection, mitigation, and rebuilding services to return residential properties to a pre-disaster state per Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) guidelines. Certified technicians use proper containment measures and personal protective equipment (PPE) to implement mold damage mitigation solutions in Central Tulsa.

Preventing Mold Damage Proliferation in a Residence

After discovering mold damage on a property, homeowners may be tempted to get right to cleaning. However, it is crucial to understand how mold grows and what conditions allow it to thrive before cleaning.

• Lacking air circulation allows mold to spread freely. Sudden usage of HVAC systems can unintentionally circulate microbes to other areas of the home instead of getting rid of them
• Elevated relative humidity, particularly over 50%, can accelerate mold damage growth. Pipe and supply line leaks, among other forms of water damage, can accelerate this
• Porous organic materials like area rugs, drapes, clothing, wood, and drywall are particularly prone to microbial proliferation

SERVPRO® mitigation services do not entail total mold removal, which is impossible. However, it is possible to return a Tulsa home to a clean, safe, pre-damage state that is free of malodors.

SERVPRO Mold Remediation Returns Homes to a Pre-Disaster Condition

SERVPRO mold damage mitigation technicians render a plethora of tasks that reduce microbes to normal levels for an indoor residential space. These activities include the following:

• Setting up clean rooms for equipment decontamination, as well as sealing off affected areas with polyethylene sheeting. Mold inspection also detects areas with elevated moisture levels that aggravate microbial growth
• Establishing negative air pressure with HEPA-filter air scrubbers traps microbes for more thorough spore remediation. A combination of dry and wet cleaning methods, as well as sanitation with EPA-registered biocides, allows for more rigorous mold damage remediation
• Positioning air movers and dehumidifiers to reduce relative humidity to normal levels for a residential property slows microbial growth
• Performing necessary drywall demolition, carpet and pad removal, and other disposal tasks with homeowners’ permission. This process allows technicians to install new materials where needed.
• Implementing odor control strategies that are tailored to affected surfaces. Mold odors can be quelled with solvent-based deodorizer solutions, time-release pellets, counteractant odor beads, and thorough HVAC cleaning, among other solutions.

SERVPRO’s mold damage process emphasizes repairs and restoration over replacement wherever possible to help homeowners enjoy increased savings and an easier transition back to a clean, safe residence.

Homeowners can reach the SERVPRO of Central Tulsa crew at (918) 271-5922 for rapid-response remediation and restoration services after a disaster.

After the Storm: What To Expect During the Restoration Process

6/22/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Tulsa is the best in the restoration business.

Storm Restoration Process

It can be difficult to comprehend the type of damage a violent storm can do to your home. Flooding, damaged building materials, and soaked furniture are just a few problems you may be dealing with in the wake of a storm. A professional flood damage company can help your home recover. Knowing what to expect during the process, from tear-out services to water drainage, may help you feel more confident about the outcome.

Storm Mitigation

 When a powerful storm causes water damage to your home, it is important to contain the water. Preventing its spread can help reduce these future problems:

• Rapid mold growth
• Swelling and warping of wood
• High humidity
  
  

When a storm damage service arrives, they will likely act to prevent floodwaters from spreading to dry areas. Rooms that contain electronic components, such as fuse boxes or thermostats, may be drained first to prevent long-term damage to these systems.

Water and Debris Drainage

 A storm restoration service will probably bring in a variety of machinery to drain away flood water. When outdoor flooding invades your home, it may bring in not only water, but debris that includes dead leaves, mud, and garbage as well. Trash pumps and portable sump pumps can drain away this waste so your flood technicians can continue with tear-out services and other restoration actions.

Flood Cuts and Drywall Replacement

Because many building materials are porous, such as drywall, they can absorb and retain flood water. This can cause rotting and damage of interior wall components, including insulation. Your storm damage and restoration service techs may perform a flood cut into the drywall about 2’ above the water line to assess such issues and to gauge what kind of repairs might be needed.

When violent storms impact Tulsa, it can be difficult to know what to expect once repairs begin. Learning about tear-out services and other restorative actions may help give you peace of mind about the future state of your home.

Homeowners can reach the SERVPRO of Central Tulsa crew at (918) 271-5922 for rapid-response remediation and restoration services after a disaster.