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The ABCs of Water Damage Restoration: Understanding the Different Types of Water Damage and their Restoration Processes

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water damage restoration team at work in the hallway of a commercial restoration project SERVPRO water damage restoration team at work in the hallway of a commercial restoration project in Nashville, TN

Water damage can be devastating to a property, regardless of the source. Whether it's a flood, a burst pipe, or a leaky roof, water can cause significant damage to your home or business, leading to costly repairs and potential health risks. Understanding the different types of water damage and their restoration processes can help you better prepare for and respond to water damage events.

In this blog post, we'll break down the three categories of water damage and the restoration processes associated with each.

Category 1 Water Damage: Clean Water

Category 1 water damage is the least severe and easiest to clean up. It refers to water that is clean and free from contaminants, such as water from a burst pipe or rainwater.

Restoration Process: The restoration process for Category 1 water damage typically involves the following steps:

  1. Water Extraction: The first step in any water damage restoration process is to remove the water. This involves using specialized equipment to extract water from the affected areas.
  2. Drying: Once the water has been extracted, the drying process begins. This involves using dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out the affected areas and prevent the growth of mold.
  3. Cleaning: After the area has been dried, cleaning and disinfecting the affected surfaces is necessary to prevent the growth of bacteria and other harmful organisms.

Category 2 Water Damage: Gray Water

Category 2 water damage is more severe than Category 1 and requires more extensive restoration efforts. Gray water is water that contains some level of contaminants, such as water from a dishwasher or washing machine.

Restoration Process: The restoration process for Category 2 water damage is more complex than Category 1, involving the following steps:

  1. Water Extraction: The first step in the restoration process is to extract the water from the affected areas, using specialized equipment.
  2. Drying: After the water has been removed, the drying process begins. This step may take longer than in Category 1 water damage, as the water may have seeped into porous materials, such as carpets and upholstery.
  3. Sanitizing: The next step is to sanitize the affected areas to eliminate bacteria and prevent mold growth. This may involve using specialized products to clean and disinfect surfaces.
  4. Restoration: The final step in the restoration process is to repair or replace any damaged materials or structures, such as flooring or drywall.

Category 3 Water Damage: Black Water

Category 3 water damage is the most severe and dangerous type of water damage. It involves water that is highly contaminated, such as sewage or floodwater. This type of water damage poses a significant health risk and requires immediate and extensive restoration efforts.

Restoration Process: The restoration process for Category 3 water damage is the most complex and may involve the following steps:

  1. Water Extraction: The first step in the restoration process is to extract the water from the affected areas, using specialized equipment.
  2. Disinfecting: After the water has been removed, the area must be disinfected to eliminate harmful bacteria and other organisms.
  3. Decontamination: If the water has come into contact with porous materials, such as carpeting or drywall, these materials must be removed and replaced to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
  4. Restoration: The final step in the restoration process is to repair or replace any damaged materials or structures, such as flooring or drywall.

Water damage can be a costly and dangerous problem for any property owner. It's important to understand the different types of water damage and the restoration processes involved in each category. Category 1 water damage is the least severe and easiest to clean up, while Category 2 and 3 require more extensive restoration efforts.

No matter the category of water damage, it's crucial to seek professional help from a reputable water damage restoration company, like SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville, to ensure that the restoration process is done efficiently and effectively. Our team of experts is well-equipped to handle any water damage situation, providing 24/7 emergency services and state-of-the-art restoration techniques. Don't hesitate to reach out if you're in need of water damage restoration services.

Tornado Preparedness: Critical Tips to Keep Your Home and Family Safe

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

a tornado landing in the middle of an open field with a forest in the background No matter when a tornado strikes, SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville is your local storm damage expert. Call today for fast, immediate help!
A tornado can strike at any time, without warning, even in Nashville, TN. That's why it's important to be prepared for a storm before it hits. Yesterday, May 30, 2022, a devastating tornado hit Minnesota, destroying as many as 100 homes. As climate change takes hold, stronger and more unpredictable storms are likely. This is why tornado preparedness is more critical than ever. In this article, we'll discuss a few important tips to prepare your home and family for a tornado before it happens. SERVPRO is always here to help with storm damage cleanup and fast response!

Be Aware of the Weather

Be careful of the weather conditions in your area. Tornadoes can be very dangerous and unpredictable, so watch out for any changes in the weather that could indicate one is forming. If you know there will be thunderstorms, keep an eye on local radio and television stations or NOAA radio for further updates. Tornadoes may develop rapidly, as they did in Forada, Minnesota. Some tornadoes strike before there is time for a tornado warning. The following weather indicators indicate that a tornado is approaching:

  • A large, low, and dark cloud
  • A dark or greenish sky
  • A loud train-like roar outside
  • Hail, especially larger hail
If you notice any of these conditions, take cover immediately.

Prepare for Storm Damage in Advance

Preparation is key and can even mean the difference between life and death for your family. That is why, if you live in a tornado-prone area, you should organize a storm-kit with the following items in advance:

  • A tornado emergency plan including the location and access to a safe shelter for yourself, your family, people with special needs, and your pets
  • An emergency kit (including water, non-perishable food, and medication)
  • Fresh batteries and a battery-operated TV, radio, or internet-enabled device to listen to the latest emergency weather information
  • A list of important information, including telephone numbers and important contacts, important health information, banking information, etc.
Make certain that your children know what a tornado is, when tornadoes occur, and what the various types of watches and warnings are. (Counties will often issue warnings.)

SERVPRO is Here to Help

When a storm strikes, the most important thing is to protect the health and safety of your loved ones. Your home is often the first line of defense, and while protecting you, it often takes damage even if its not visible at first.

If you or someone you know has suffered storm damage to their home from a tornado, strong thunderstorm, storm-related wind gusts, or other kinds of storm damage, call your local SERVPRO experts today at (615) 731-4222

We're Faster to any size disaster!

Spring Storms and Weather Events in the United States | SERVPRO® of Southeast Nashville

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

an image with a cloudy, rainy, sunny, and snowy sky Extreme temperature changes can lead to severe weather. SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville is a click away if you experience any damage.

Because the United States is one of the world's most significant countries, it has a vast and varied terrain. As a consequence, seasonal weather in the United States isn't uniform—different portions of the country face varying types of weather conditions, which leads to different levels of weather concerns for various locations.

Let's take a look at the weather patterns that can form as spring approaches and warm and cold air masses collide across the country—and what we may learn from them in Tennessee. From December through April, the Pacific Northwest is prone to heavy rain, which might cause flooding and water damage. Snow will continue to build at higher elevations as the season progresses, bringing difficulties of its own owing to melting and runoff. The Upper Midwest and Northeast have the longest winter season, with temperatures remaining below freezing for the majority of it. People can anticipate ice storms, blizzards, and even significant snowfall until late spring or early summer in Maine to Minnesota. Extreme heat waves, on the other hand, will be a major problem in the Southwest and southern West Coast. The possibility of tsunamis produced by tectonic activity in the South Pacific region, including Hawaii, will be high on watch. From Iowa to Texas, the center of the country will need to be on guard for windstorms, derechos and the prospect of wildfires, which might swiftly spread due to strong winds and arid conditions. Tornado Alley is especially vulnerable to tornadoes, with a large part of this region being known as such. Finally, throughout the Southeast, we can anticipate a wide range weather events, ranging from thunderstorms and tornadoes in low-lying regions to early-season hurricanes along the shoreline later in the spring. Late-season snow has hit numerous locations in Middle Tennessee. Extreme weather can happen in any part of the United States. While it varies from state to state, being aware and prepared for severe weather is never a bad idea. Help is only a phone call or an email away if extreme weather causes you property damage from water, fire, or other forces. For local, rapid, professional restoration, contact SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville. We are always Here to Help.

3 Easy Home Maintenance Tips to Help You Prevent a Water Damage Event: SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville

3/5/2022 (Permalink)

5 Green SERVPRO trucks in a warehouse in Nashville waiting to be dispatched to a water restoration project. SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville keeps its trucks ready to respond immediately to your water damage emergency.

Water damage can be a costly and devastating event. At SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville we have often found that careful maintenance can diminish the risk and costs of water damage restoration. The water damage restoration process can be stressful, but by following some simple home maintenance tips, you can help prevent flooding from structural or maintenance issues in your home.

1) Assess your water heater to minimize water repair risk.

Water heater issues are common when it comes to our emergency water cleanup calls in Nashville, TN and Hickory Hollow, TN. With regular maintenance, you can prevent a surprise water heater flood in your home. Make sure the water heater's thermostat is regulating the temperature properly to prevent pressure buildup that can cause a water leak.

If you notice an odd taste or odor in the water from your water heater, it may have rust or sediment buildup inside. Also, if your water starts to make strange noises, it could need inspection or replacement to prevent a surprise flood.

2) Inspect your appliance hoses and connectors for leaks and replace them if they start showing wear.

Look for any cracks, kinks, unraveling, wear, or corrosion on the hoses and connectors. If you find any damage, replace them immediately. Most manufacturers and plumbers also recommend replacing water hoses and connectors every 3-5 years to prevent surprise water damage issues.

3) Replace old caulking in your windows and doors to prevent wet areas and moisture around the windows.

We often get calls for mitigation work in Hickory Hollow, TN and Nashboro Village, TN for this kind of restoration work. Caulking your windows can not only stop water leaks but also help to keep out drafts. It is a simple process that you can do yourself. Most window caulks should last about five years, but you should inspect your caulking every year and replace it if you notice any cracks developing or if you see it pulling away from the window.

You should also check your exterior door flashings for holes or rust that can allow water entry. If your doors are properly caulked, you can also help prevent premature flashing failure.

We are Here to Help for All of Your Water Repair Needs

If you or someone you know needs water damage restoration service, our team at SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville is Here to Help!

Save our number for the future or call today for rapid response from our IICRC trained water restoration technicians.

Call today! (615) 731-4222

How To Handle Cleaning Up After a Sewer Backup

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage water on the floor It's very challenging to deal with sewer backup.

Cleaning Up After a Sewer Back-Up

Water damage is challenging enough when you are dealing with a burst or broken pipe, but it gets even more challenging when you are dealing with a sewer backup. Cleaning up after a flooded toilet or another major sewer malfunction in Antioch, TN, means not only drying the area and cleaning the affected home furnishings and belongings, but also disinfecting all the affected areas. That’s why it’s important to work with a professional sewer cleanup service that has the tools to handle the job.

Discovering the Problem

1. Turn off the water to the toilet or other appliance affected by the sewage backup.
2. Contact the cleanup service and your insurance carrier.
3. Keep pets and kids clear of the affected areas.
4. Contact repair services to fix the cause of the backup.

Any cleanup that requires thorough disinfection as part of its process presents a strong risk to human health and well-being from unprotected exposure. It’s important that you make sure to minimize any human exposure to the affected areas of your home until after you have gotten professional help with sewer cleanup following the accident.

Using Sewer Backup Cleaning Specialists

Water damage and restoration companies carry certifications that tell you what kinds of emergencies they are certified to handle. When you are dealing with a flooded toilet or a sewer that has backed up, you need to find a company whose employees are certified to deal with sewage and other biohazards. That way, you know they will use the proper disinfectant cleaning protocols during your cleanup.

Repairing Your Plumbing

You will probably need to line up a plumbing service in Antioch, TN, in addition to your cleaning service, but not always. If you do need a plumber, make sure you let the cleaning crew finish, so any contaminated areas are disinfected. When sewer cleanup goes first, the repair can be completed more quickly and efficiently.

A Home Fire Extinguisher Buying Guide

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Types of fire extinguishers Extinguishers are classified in accordance with standard 10 set by the National Fire Protection Agency.

Every home should have a fire extinguisher to suppress minor fires. This buying guide identifies the main classes of fire extinguishers and explains why a multi-class or rechargeable extinguisher may be ideal for home use.

Extinguisher Classes

Extinguishers are classified in accordance with standard 10 set by the National Fire Protection Agency. Suppressants are selected for effectiveness and safety:

• Class A extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and work on ordinary combustibles
• Class B extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate and work on flammable liquids or gases, but not cooking oils or grease
• Class C extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate and work on appliances or powered electrical equipment
• Class D extinguishers contain sodium chloride or copper powder and work on combustible metals
• Class K extinguishers contain potassium compounds and work on cooking oils and grease

The most common home fire extinguishers are classes A, B, and C. Underwriters Laboratories assigns the number that precedes these letters and indicates the effectiveness of a fire extinguisher. A 4-A extinguisher is more effective than a 2-A extinguisher.

Multi-Class Extinguishers

Some extinguishers are rated for multiple classes. Homeowners may prefer a multi-class extinguisher to promote comprehensive fire preparedness. Determine the most likely fire risks and purchase an extinguisher rated for all of these classes.

Disposable or Rechargeable

Disposable extinguishers have plastic valves and must be replaced after a single-use. Rechargeable extinguishers have durable metal valves and cost more upfront. Suppressant refills are more affordable than purchasing a new disposable extinguisher.

All of these factors are important to consider when purchasing home fire safety equipment for a residence in Smith Springs, TN. Homeowners may want to install a different class of fire extinguisher in the kitchen, garage, laundry room, and other areas based on the most likely fire risks. If a fire results in property damage, contact a mitigation and restoration company.

Evaluating the Importance of Commercial Flood Insurance

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Insurance Commercial insurance plays a valuable role in any business’ long-term viability.

Commercial Flood Insurance

Owning a business is a big financial investment. While a variety of insurance policies can safeguard an owner’s property and financial security, many managers and executives in Nashboro Village, TN, may fail to recognize the importance of flood insurance. Three key points can help you evaluate your flood risk and make an informed decision about this essential coverage.

1. Understanding Flood Damage

Floodwaters can cause significant destruction. In addition to destroying equipment and internal infrastructure, water inundation can also increase the risk of mold contamination. Unfortunately, most commercial property policies do not cover flood damage restoration. Without insurance, funding out-of-pocket cleanup and repair costs can quickly overwhelm your budget.

2. Evaluating Your Risk

Your location plays a key role in determining your flood risk. Even if your area is considered low-risk, purchasing flood insurance may still be a wise decision. Severe storms can sometimes be unpredictable. Hurricanes Katrina and Harvey illustrated, for example, that powerful storms can threaten the stability of levees and other water control mechanisms and cause torrential rainfall farther inland. As a result, businesses in Nashboro Village, TN, may be more vulnerable than they realize.

3. Recognizing Coverage Details

An active flood policy typically covers destruction to your building and its contents. To qualify, floodwaters must cover at least two acres or affect two or more properties. Damage caused by broken pipes or leaking roofs usually fall under standard property insurance.

Like other policies, flood coverage often has exclusions. For example, infrastructure and property outside of your building, such as company vehicles, may not be covered. In addition, coverage often excludes compensation for any financial losses resulting from downtime. To safeguard against these scenarios, you should review your property and business income protection plans.

Commercial insurance plays a valuable role in any business’ long-term viability. Because few policies are truly comprehensive, it’s important for every business owner to evaluate risks that may jeopardize his or her financial security. For enhanced peace of mind, flood insurance is an important coverage that everyone should consider.

Cleaning Your Business After a Fire: Important Steps to Take

1/29/2022 (Permalink)

Technicians using wearing protective inside a building with fire damage, insulation all over the floor, ceiling burned We can restore your property back to pre-fire conditions.

Cleaning Up After a Fire at Your Business

When a fire breaks out at your Nashville, TN, business, cleaning up afterward can be a challenge, even if the fire did not impact every part of the building. Smoke damage, discoloration of walls and floors and a lingering smell of smoke might all be problems you face after a fire. If you are currently dealing with the aftermath of a fire at your business, there are a few important steps to take that may help you get back to operational status faster.


Talk to the Fire Department

Once the fire is extinguished, you can approach the firefighters and ask a few important questions. While they might not be able to answer all your questions, you can make several inquiries, such as:

  • What started the fire
  • Which parts of the building were affected
  • Who to contact to get a copy of the fire department’s report

Knowing as much as you can once the fire is contained or extinguished can help you plan cleanup efforts with more efficiency.

Inspect the Building

Work with your insurance company to take stock of soot damage, water damage from fire hoses and how many rooms were affected by flames. Inspecting the building can help you gauge how much it may cost to fix and whether any rooms have safety issues as a result of the fire. Remember to include interior walls, windows and doors in the inspection.

Removing Smoke Odors

Once fire damage is cleaned up, smoke damage may cause unpleasant odors to linger. Your fire damage checklist should include contacting a company that specializes in removing these odors. These professionals have access to machines and cleansers that can clean the air and deodorize your building. Getting rid of smoke odors can be challenging and calling in a professional at the outset can ensure the odors are neutralized permanently.

After a fire, your Nashville, TN, business may be affected in many ways. However, taking action such as calling for professional smoke damage repair and staying on top of insurance reports can help you get your company up and running again.

Get the Facts About Secondary Damage After a Flood

1/29/2022 (Permalink)

drying equipment in a living room, drywall removed the interior of drywall is wet or mold has been found. Drying equipment placed inside a home in Nashboro Village, TN.

Secondary damage is a term used to describe factors such as high humidity and black mold. Water damage can develop fast in Nashboro Village, TN, and it usually does not take long for significant problems to result. You should be aware of what damage can happen and what to do about it so that you can take the appropriate action.

Understanding Types of Secondary Water Damage

You should know what the different types of secondary water damage are in order to know what to look for following a flood or similar water problem. The following are what you should be aware of:

  • Mold growth, which can start to occur in as little as 24 hours
  • Corrosion of certain metal components and materials
  • Damage to your personal belongings and elements, such as flooring and walls
  • Electrical damage if the water is able to penetrate sockets and anything else powered by electricity
  • Wood rot when wood is allowed to remain wet for a prolonged period of time

Employing the Proper Cleaning Techniques

Beginning cleanup quickly can be imperative to saving your possessions. If you get started with cleaning up excess water fast enough, you may be able to prevent, or at least reduce, black mold and other damage. Make sure to get all of the water out after shutting off all utilities to the impacted area. Run a dehumidifier and open windows to finish drying out the space. From here, you may want to use warm water and detergent that produces limited suds to thoroughly scrub the space. Once you complete this task, go back over everything with a sanitizing solution, and make sure that it dries completely.

You are now aware of the issues that can result from black mold and other types of secondary water damage. With this information, you have the knowledge necessary to better detect these problems and eradicate them as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville- Proud to be awarded

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Expertise.com Award for excellent water damage repair services Expertise.com Award for excellent water damage repair services

A water-related disaster in your home or business in Nashville, TN is stressful, no matter the size. While you might hope that this would never happen to you, the truth is that it happens more than you think. If your home or business has ever experienced water damage or if you know someone who has, you’re likely well aware of how much damage even minor flooding can cause—and how long it can take to restore things back to normal.

The Award: Water Damage Restoration Services in Nashville, TN

Our Water Damage Specialists use advanced water restoration techniques. So if you need help with everything from unclogging a drain, to restoring your home after a second-story toilet overflow, we have the capacity to do it. We specialize in removal and extraction, drying and dehumidification, cleaning and repair, and restoration services, for residential and commercial properties alike.

Our commitment to quality of service and workmanship has earned us an A+ rating from Expertise.com.

Water Removal and Extraction

When water damage occurs, it’s important to start by removing and extracting as much of that water as possible. If not taken care of quickly and properly, water can lead to more extensive – and expensive – problems later on. At SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville, we offer a variety of services that include water removal and extraction. Our teams can handle everything from small leaks in your basement or garage to large-scale disasters such as floods caused by storms, wind, or hurricanes.

Drying and Dehumidification

For a water damage restoration company, drying and dehumidification are crucial steps in a restoration project. If water is left sitting in a home or business, mold will begin to grow and spread—destroying walls, floors, and furniture in its path. Our SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville technicians make sure that atmospheric humidity levels are contained to 30-60% relative humidity and salvageable materials are dried and cleaned to preloss conditions before beginning the next steps in our water damage restoration process.

Restoration Services

Here at SERVPRO, we know that you don’t want to repair your home; you want it restored. Our water restoration technicians will work with you and your insurance company (if applicable) throughout every step of restoring your property to its preloss condition. We understand how stressful and frustrating water damage can be – but we also know that our dedication and expertise will help minimize stress and bring closure during a very difficult time in your life.

Call us today at (615) 731-4222 for 24/7/365 service. We are Here to Help.