Recent Storm Damage Posts

SERVPRO is Storm Ready!

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

We're always ready for the next big storm. Count on SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids, no matter how large the job may be.

SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids is a specialized leader in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and certified, and we are equipped with the most cutting-edge technology to restore your property to its pre-storm condition as quickly as possible.

Response Time Matters

As a locally owned and operated franchise, we know our communities and are able to respond appropriately. With the right resources—which is extremely important— fast response will lessen the damage, limit further damage, and reduce restoration costs.

The Right Tool For The Job

Eastern North Carolina is storm-prone, and we are at a higher risk of intense or damaging storms than many other areas. We understand just how intense things can get and have the unique ability to scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 2,000+ SERVPRO Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States. 

Give us a call at (252) 537-3473!

Preventative Steps To Take Before and After a Storm

7/22/2022 (Permalink)

Don't let inclement weather keep you down, call SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids for your restoration and remediation needs.

Whether or not your property is in a flood zone, it’s important to understand how you can protect your property in the case of a flood damage event. Here are some action steps you can take to protect your property before a restoration professional like those at SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids responds.

Please only perform these actions if the structure has been cleared as safe to enter.

  • Take the greatest caution while entering your home, and wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing when dealing with flooded areas. Always wear protective clothing.
  • Take photos or video to record conditions of collections and structure. Make sure images clearly record damage.
  • Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting.
  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
  • Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
  • Remove any paintings, art objects, documents, and other sensitive materials to a safe, dry place.
  • Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
  • Do not attempt to operate any electrical equipment while standing in wet or damp locations.
  • Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to prevent staining.
  • Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
  • Do not move objects or collections without documenting their condition. 
  • Throw away all foods - even canned goods - that have come into contact with flood waters.
  • If your home has a crawlspace, be aware excess moisture in this area can often foster mold growth.


If you are unsure about your property’s flood risk and want to look it up by address, visit FEMA.gov to see their breakdown of your area. If your property sustains flood damage, be sure to call a professional, IICRC company like SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids at (252) 537-3473 as soon as possible.

Missteps to Avoid Following a Flood

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Avoid Storm Damage in your Roanoke Rapids, NC Property.

Flood water should not be taken lightly.

As hurricane season approaches, we’re thinking about flooding again. Flood water in your home can have long-lasting impacts on your home and life. Even minor flooding causes damage, while severe flooding can destroy your home and harm you.

If you’ve ever experienced a flood, you know it’s important to take the proper steps to deal with the outcome. Taking the wrong steps could lead to more damage and heightened costs. Here are some helpful hints to prevent you from making a misstep following flooding in your home.



Don’t Wear the Wrong Clothing

If flood waters invaded your home, DO NOT go back in until you’re sure it’s safe to do so. Once you get into your home, inspect the damage. Visit every room in your home and note where the damage is most significant. And while you’re doing this, make sure you are wearing the proper protective clothing and gear, these include: 

  • latex gloves
  • knee-high rubber boots
  • disposable N-95 face mask

Stay out of the Water

As you inspect the water damage you should avoid any standing water. You often will not be able to see if you are stepping on to a hidden danger when you’re in flood water. It can, and likely will, contain bacteria, microbes and other harmful substances including sewage. If flooding was more severe, there is also a strong potential for electric shock. 



Keep Your Face and Hands Away

Flood water very likely contains black water. This is water that has mixed with sewage. It could urine and feces from sewers or overflowing toilets. If you let this come in contact with your skin, you could get very ill. Or worse, if you ingest this water, it could be fatal. Note, you DO NOT want this water to touch any part of your exposed skin.



Don’t Wait on Cleanup

Results of flood water could be destructive, so there’s a tendency for you to want to start cleaning up immediately. The better plan is to assess the situation, contact your insurance company and then contact a restoration company like SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids, NC to help you with the cleanup. We’re available 24/7 to answer any questions or to come to your rescue.

Protect Your Home From Flood Water Damage

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

These Tips will help you Protect Your Home From Flood Water Damage. If you have more questions, just contact us.

It doesn't take long for flood water to leave your home in shambles, and many types of conditions can lead to flooding in Roanoke Rapids, NC. Taking a proactive stance protects your property from:

  • Flash floods
  • Overflowing roads and rivers
  • Lack of adequate drainage
  • Heavy rains or melting snow

Before storms threaten, take steps to protect your home from water damage.

There are many steps you can take to keep water out of your home and away from your belongings.

Keep Flood Water Out of Your Home

Tackle some of these tasks today and reach out to professionals in your area to learn more about how to avoid water damage.

Understand the Risk in Your Area

The National Flood Insurance Program operates a website, Floodsmart.gov, that provides information about floodplains, zones, and chances of flooding. You can also check into the history of your area to learn about past experiences and ask your insurance provider for information specific to your neighborhood.

Install Backflow Prevention Valves

These protective devices stop contaminated water from flowing back into your home and mixing with potable water. Check the water pipes to your home (near the shut-off valve) to determine whether a backflow valve is already in place and to determine the most appropriate model for your home.

Install a Sump Pump

These handy devices provide a convenient way to move flood water out and away from your home. Look for a pump that is sized appropriately for your home, taking into account the most common flood threat in your area. It's also a good idea to choose a pump with a backup battery.

Clean Out and Maintain Gutters

The gutters that run around the roof are a vital part of your home protection plan. When they are clear of debris, the gutters move a lot of rainfall away from the building. However, if the gutters are full of leaves, sticks, and dirt, the water will build up and then seep into the attic, walls, and basement.

Improve Grading and Drainage on Your Property

One common issue that quickly leads to a flooded building is water pooling around the foundation of the house. This happens when the grade of the lawn tends toward the home. Inspect your property, looking for potential problem areas. These are pretty easy to recognize on rainy days. Add to sunken areas at the base of the home and direct water to appropriate drainage locations away from the home.

Elevate Appliances and Utilities

Using the information you gathered about flooding in your area, raise your water heater, air conditioning unit, furnace, and other appliances above the expected flood elevation level. Discuss this step with your insurance agent for specific data. If you store important documents, keepsakes, and similar items in the basement, choose a raised location for these items as well.

There are several other steps you can consider when it comes to protecting your home from the damage caused by flood water in Roanoke Rapids, NC. If your home is affected by water damage, reach out to cleanup and restoration professionals as quickly as possible.

Sewage Backup Due To Rain

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Heavy Rains can lead to various problems in your Roanoke Rapids, NC house. Consider these tips to be better prepared.

When people think of severe weather, they typically think of thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, etc., but few people consider the damage persistent and heavy rains can cause, even without heavy winds. Two of the primary issues during heavy rain include a flood and sewer backup.

Bear in mind this information in case you experience Heavy Rain

Flooding is expected with a tremendous amount of rain water, but for some homeowners, a black water backup is not. However, one typically leads to the other as city sewer systems become overwhelmed.

Despite the inconvenience and expense, you should never deal with flood or sewage water on your own. This type of flooding requires the experienced techniques and practices of a qualified restoration service in Roanoke Rapids, NC. The company will perform a four-step process to resolve your problem:

  • Mitigation
  • Water removal
  • Cleaning and disinfection
  • Property restoration

Dealing With a Sewer Backup After Heavy Rains

Storm damage is an all-inclusive category for any damage resulting from a storm, including wind and water damage. Sewer backups are a part of that category as well. While not nature-made, the onslaught of heavy rains causes a sewer crisis.

Some homeowners struggle with understanding how one event leads to the other. It is a straightforward process caused by the overwhelming of systems.

While homeowners can take preventative measures, such as installing backflow valves and overflow systems, there is still the chance a backup can occur, especially with persistent rains. When such catastrophes happen, it is best to call a remediation professional.

Overwhelmed Sewers

Heavy rains can quickly overwhelm the city and residential sewer systems. The sudden and significant downpour essentially forces water back through your system, leading to wastewater overflows.

Sewers are designed for maximum capacity limits. When a storm pushes the limits of these systems, the water has to have a place to go. Unfortunately, when city systems are equally overworked, the wastewater only has one other alternative: your drains.

If homeowners do not have adequate overflow or backflow systems in place, they will likely experience significant costs. Therefore, it is best to talk with a water remediation specialist before worrying about restoration.

Water Remediation

If you experience a sewage backup, it is necessary to call a remediation service to clean up the damage as soon as possible. Sewage is black water, and it is highly contaminated. It is considered toxic to people and pets.

You do not want to attempt a DIY clean-up of such water because it puts your health at risk. A water remediation specialist understands local and federal ordinances for the safe removal of such contaminated substances. These professionals also know how to disinfect and clean your property so you and your family can feel at home again.

A sewer backup is not a pretty sight or smell. The longer the problem sits in your property, the greater the damage becomes. A remediation specialist is the only individual who should be working in such conditions because they understand safe removal practices.

You can talk to a local city manager or remediation service to determine the best approach to resolving such issues or to find out how you might prevent them from occurring in the first place.

How Can I Protect My Home From Outside Flooding?

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

A puddle in your yard can lead to severe water damage in your Roanoke Rapids, NC home.

Have you noticed puddles forming in your Roanoke Rapids, NC, yard after a rainstorm? Improper landscaping can lead to outside flooding, which can potentially cause several major problems for your house and property. These issues can go from being a minor annoyance to a severe matter requiring water damage restoration professionals in a relatively short amount of time. To make matters worse, some cities have started charging homeowners stormwater runoff fees because this extra drainage can pollute the water system with pesticides and other chemicals.

Improper rain drainage can lead to problems, such as:

  • Creating basement leaks
  • Killing grass
  • Tracking mud indoors on shoes
  • Making yard maintenance difficult
  • Producing structural damage
  • Making the property unsightly

Fortunately, there are a few potential drainage fixes you can try to return your yard to a beautiful area that everyone can enjoy. Depending on the details of your specific property, one or a combination of two or more of these solutions should help create a puddle-free property.

Landscaping for Rain Drainage

1. Install a Downspout Diverter

Preventing flooding around your house could be as simple as installing a downspout diverter. It will take water away from the walls of the house and send it to the lower ground.

2. Add a Rain Garden

A rain garden will typically be about 50-100 square feet in size. It can be a great help for reducing flooding. It provides a proper place for water to collect during heavy rainfall. Plants with the highest moisture tolerance should be planted in the garden's center, and the other plants will drain to them. The pooling water in the center will slowly seep back into the soil.

3. Replace Light Mulch With Heavier Mulch

A heavier mulch can often help with outside flooding problems. Heavy rains can spread light mulch, which not only creates a mess but can also clog drains that will then overflow. Instead of a light mulch, such as pine, opt for a hardwood mulch or a man-made material.

4. Opt for a Gravel Driveway

Gravel can be a much better way to mitigate flooding at your home than concrete or asphalt. It is also a more eco-friendly option and requires less maintenance.

5. Create a Swale

A swale is a dip in a landscape that directs the flow of water drainage. It should be directed into a specific area that won't result in damage. Make a swale even more efficient by planting deep-rooting plants on the slopes and lining the lowest part of the swale with rocks. This will slow the water's drainage path while diverting it where you want it.

6. Install an Eco-Roof

If you have a flat or a slightly sloped roof, a green roof could be a great unique solution to your flood problem. Studies have shown that eco-roofs not only help increase the lifespan of a roof but also provide better insulation that will assist in lowering your heating and cooling bills.

Landscaping your yard for better rain drainage can benefit your property and the environment. Begin today by looking at your options to solve all your outside flooding issues.

7 Tips for Preparing for a Severe Storm

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

A storm can provoke several damages in your Roanoke Rapids, NC, home.

When the weather radar shows that a storm will be blowing through Roanoke Rapids, NC, preparation is vital. Although you can't control the storm's trajectory or strength, you can prepare your environment to be ready. This preparation can drastically minimize storm damage. Next time bad weather is forecasted, put these storm tips into action to keep your family and home safer.

1. Prepare an Emergency Plan

Having a written plan can help everyone in your family stay on the same page when an emergency happens. Identify evacuation routes and choose an emergency meeting location close to your home. Make sure everyone knows the phone numbers of emergency contacts.

2. Create an Emergency Supply Kit

You may have to evacuate your home without much warning, so it's helpful to have an emergency kit ready to grab at a moment's notice. You can make an individual kit for each person in your family (e.g., a backpack of supplies) or a larger kit with everything for the family. The kit(s) should include first aid supplies, prescriptions, and other necessary medications, bottled drinking water (i.e., one gallon per day per person), nonperishable food, a non-electric can opener, battery-powered flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, phone chargers and charged power banks, cash and credit cards, and essential documents, such as identification and medical and bank information.

3. Enable Weather Alerts

If the power goes out, or you're sheltering in place, you may not have access to a TV or computer. A helpful way to keep up with the storm information is by having a weather app on your phone. You can enable severe weather alerts, get real-time information and storm tips, and track the storm via the weather radar.

4. Back Up Important Data

You should always keep important data on your computer backed up on at least one other source. Backing up to the cloud is the most secure backup you can get; if your computer is damaged, it won't be affected. There are many cloud-based free services, and to make it better, they're accessible from anywhere with internet access.

5. Check the Property

Checking your outdoor property before a storm can avoid a lot of potential damage. Put lawn furniture, flower pots, bicycles, or anything else that could blow away or become projectiles away. Also, close umbrellas and awnings, which could blow away or tear during high winds.

6. Inspect the Roof

Before the storm arrives, inspect the roof for loose or missing shingles or other damage. Making necessary repairs now can prevent roof leaks during a heavy downpour or more severe harm. If you experience a leak or flood, water damage restoration professionals can help mitigate the loss.

7. Know Where to Turn Off Utilities

All adults and appropriate-age children should know where all the utility shut-offs are at your home. They should also understand when and how to turn them off. Sometimes shutting off water and gas mains can mitigate some of the loss during harsh weather. It's also beneficial to know how to override electronics, such as the garage door if the power goes out.

These seven storm tips can keep your family and your property as safe as possible from a severe storm. Begin preparing today for the possibility of storm damage in the future.

3 Tips for Cleaning Your Home After a Flood

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning after damage by a flood can be a long process but it's necessary to avoid serious damages.

Floodwaters often contain mud and contaminants that have specific cleaning requirements. If your home has been damaged by a flood, these tips can help you with the cleaning process.

1. Remove Mud

One of the first steps of any flood clean process is to remove any mud that has been left behind. Use a shovel to remove as much mud as you can and then spray hard surfaces with a garden hose. If there is too much mud to remove on your own, you may want to contact a professional storm cleaning company in Roanoke, NC, to assist you.

2. Disinfect Your Kitchen

Because of potential contamination, the cleaning requirements for your kitchen focus on disinfection. Porcelain, plastic, glass, enamel, and china dinnerware can be disinfected by immersing it in a solution of two tablespoons of chlorine bleach per one gallon of hot water. Allow dishes to air-dry after disinfection, instead of drying them with a towel. Metal utensils, pans, pots, and silverware can be boiled in water for 10 minutes. Avoid using bleach on these items, because it may cause the metal to darken. Clean and rinse counters and cupboards with a chlorine bleach solution before putting your dishes away.

3. Clean Your Furniture and Household Items

Place rugs, furniture, clothing, and bedding outside to dry. Open windows and doors to increase air circulation and run fans and dehumidifiers to help dry out your house. Vacuum ceilings, walls, and floors to remove mildew and then wash with flood disinfectant. Mattresses should be discarded. Upholstered and solid wood furniture may be salvageable, but will probably require professional cleaning. Photographs and important papers can be frozen and professionally cleaned later.

The cleaning requirements for a flooded home can be substantial. However, with hard work and professional assistance, you can restore many of the items that have the most sentimental or economic value to you.

The Storm Damage Mitigation Process

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Heavy storms can leave severe damage to your home.

If your home floods during a storm in Roanoke Rapids, NC, it will probably need some repairs that require immediate attention. Cleaning up floodwater involves a little extra care beyond basic water damage remediation. To ensure that all contaminants are thoroughly removed from your home, you need certified storm restoration experts to guide the process.

4 Steps of the Storm Damage Mitigation Process

Cleanup Plan

The first thing the specialists do when they arrive at your home is assess the damage. Storm flooding often results in a lot of black water in your home. This contaminated water often contains many things that will need to be addressed during the cleanup process:

  • Bacteria
  • Dirt
  • Debris


Once technicians have a list of tasks that need to be accomplished, they can likely give you a general timeline for when restoration will be complete. It's also a good idea to have your insurance adjuster walk through the house with the mitigation team or, if that's not possible, take pictures of the original damage to support your claim.

Water and Material Removal

The second phase of water damage repair is getting all the excess water and ruined materials out of your home. Technicians may need to use industrial pumps to remove standing water and the debris it carried in with it. After most of the water is gone, they tear out walls, ceilings, flooring and insulation that cannot be salvaged.

Drying and Disinfecting

Every remaining surface, crack and vent has to be completely dried to avoid potential secondary damage. After all, you don't want to leave an opportunity for mold growth to develop. Because water from a flood is contaminated, technicians also must disinfect all affected areas.

Restoration

The final step is rebuilding your home and making it look as good as new. New insulation is installed, new drywall is put up and tiles are replaced. The job isn't done until you are satisfied with the way your home looks.

Taking care of water damage after a storm can be complicated. With the right experts, though, you can rest assured that your home will be back to normal as soon as possible.

How Can Your Business Prepare for a Storm?

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Prepare your home or commercial property for storm damage.

With the Hurricane season behind us it’s likely we won’t have to worry about flooding issues for the remainder of the year – but don’t forget, we are moving into a heightened storm season. And, even if your office was safe in the past, you should note that construction of new buildings, roads or bridges does alter the flow of water, so there’s nothing wrong with always be prepared. Owning a home or business in a high-risk zone can increase the chances you’ll experience storm related issues; but, being outside of the area doesn’t mean damage isn’t possible.

We’re giving you some tips on how you can minimize or prevent damage to your home or commercial property. These tips can help you prepare and recover from possible flood damage.

Tips to Prevent Storm Damage to Your Home or Commercial Property

Before the Storm:

  • Move important equipment above expected flood levels and away from doors and windows
  • Inspect drains to ensure they are operating properly
  • Make sure emergency building materials are ready if your business, these could include, but are not limited to, plywood, plastic sheeting, and shovels

During the Storm:

  • Listen for alerts for the latest information.
  • Keep your smartphone charged in case you lose power; this ensures you’re still able to receive emergency notifications or can place an emergency call.
  • If you’re asked to leave, shut of all utilities and leave immediately
  • Stay clear of downed electrical wires and power lines

After the Storm:

  • Do not return to your business until you’ve been told it is safe to do so.
  • Throw away any food that have been in contact with contaminated waters.
  • Inspect your home or office for damage, and if anything has been damaged, immediately report the loss to your insurance company

And finally, if you have damage after a storm, call the team of trained professionals at SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids assist with your restoration efforts.

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.

Flooding and water damage events can lead to commercial properties with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Bath

SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.

The Benefits of Crawlspace Encapsulation

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent crawlspace humidity.

Crawlspace humidity can cause several problems in your home in Roanoke Rapids, NC, if left unchecked. It can affect air quality, encourage mold growth and make your home more susceptible to pest infestations. Encapsulation is a great way to prevent underlying humidity and thus provides several benefits to your home.

3 Benefits of Crawlspace Encapsulation

1. Improved Air Quality

Encapsulation seals off the crawlspace to keep water out of it. A water vapor barrier between the interior and exterior of your home allows more control over the indoor humidity levels. According to water damage experts, this prevents several problems:

  • Mold
  • Mildew
  • Rot


What happens in any part of your home can affect the air quality in the rest of the house, and the crawlspace is no exception. By controlling the amount of moisture you let in, you can keep your air clean and dry.

2. Lower Risk of Pests

Any space that leaves an opening to the outside has the potential to invite unwanted insects or vermin into your home. Crawlspace humidity makes the area even more attractive to various pests that thrive in warm, moist conditions. A tight seal blocks the humidity and the entry point for anything that is seeking shelter in your home. A water vapor seal doesn't just keep out moisture; it deters pests as well.

3. Increased Energy Efficiency

The more measures you put in place to control the air flow in your home, the less your HVAC system has to work to compensate for air leaks. Over time, this can save you a lot of money in maintenance and energy costs. Encapsulation benefits both the environment and your pocketbook by keeping humid air outside where it belongs.

Preventing crawlspace humidity comes with several perks for your entire home. It removes one more way for pests to enter and keeps moist air out of your home. The cost of encapsulation is well worth the benefits you receive from it.

How To Maintain a Sump Pump

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

Perform regular inspections and maintenance on a sump pump to ensure proper operation.

Your Roanoke Rapids, NC, home's sump pump works in the background. You probably rarely even think about it. If the lower floor of your home floods, though, it'll be a different story; water damage professionals will likely be required. Some sump pumps may not work for years if there's not enough groundwater to warrant it. However, it pays to perform regular inspections and pump maintenance to ensure proper operation.

6 Steps to Maintain a Sump Pump

1. Examine the Basin

It's as essential to examine the basin, just as much as the pump. Take everything out of the pit. Then, fill it with water and check for leaks. Cracks or leaks could mean unseen water damage.

2. Check the Power

Sump pumps can commonly cause breaker trips due to the amount of power they consume. Ensure that the power cord and outlet are still in good shape.

3. Check the Drain Lines

The drain pipes need to regularly be checked to ensure they're clear. Check them by filling a bucket with hot water upstairs and pour it down the pipe. If the lines are blockage-free, it'll quickly flow into your yard or sewer. If it's draining slowly, there's probably debris in the pipe.

4. Inspect the Check Valve

Check the check valve at least once a year. It's one of the most common parts of a sump pump to fail.

5. Look for Oil Leaks

If you see oil on the pump, there's probably an issue. Try to find the source of the leak. You may need to repair or replace the pump.

6. Test the Alarm and Backup Battery

Regularly test the alarm. Ensure that it's working correctly and that you can hear it well enough in a different part of the house. The backup battery must be tested at least once a year. Disconnect the pump from its power source. Then, add some water. If the backup battery works, it should start up immediately.

Hopefully, you'll never need your sump pump. Still, having it in good working order should give you peace of mind to know your home is protected against potential floods.

Have a Plan When a Storm Hits

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Prepare for an oncoming storm

When your business is in danger from a storm you can’t afford to risk your investment to water damage and a flooded building. There are many ways you can prepare your commercial property for an oncoming storm and minimize the damage as much as possible.

4 Ways to Prepare Your Commercial Property For an Oncoming Storm

1. Have a Plan

Your first priority should be to have a plan set for when a disaster hit. This plan needs to have clear steps to outline what to do in an emergency. It will also need to allow you to respond as quickly as possible as soon as you learn what threats the disaster will cause. The plan should include how to protect your building’s structure, how to safeguard your equipment, and the first steps of how to recover.

2.Protect Your Investment

Be ready to minimize damage with weatherproofing. This can include sandbagging the exterior of your building, installing weather stripping, moving your equipment and inventory to higher ground, and sealing any leaks. Minimize as much damage as possible by preventing storm water from intruding on the building.

3. Make Backups

One of the most important things you can do is back up your business data. You always want to have a few different ways to back up your office information.

4.Know Your Evacuation Routes

When the storm comes, your first instinct may be to stay as long as possible to ensure your building is appropriately protected. Instead, you should be focusing on safety. Lost inventory, equipment, and data can be recovered. Restoration professionals can repair your building. Your safety should be the greatest priority. 

Preparing for the 2020 Hurricane Season

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

To keep you and your family safe during a disaster, like a hurricane, it is important to have an emergency plan in place. The best way to be prepared it to put together an emergency preparedness kit. Don’t wait until the potential for disaster arises, make your kit now! This kit should be filled with essential items that you would need to survive for a minimum of 72 hours if disaster strikes. Many people may put off creating this kit because they aren’t sure what to add to it. So, here are a few items we recommend each household adding:

1. Water
This is a no brainer! Water is key for survival. A good rule of thumb is to have one gallon of water per person, per day for at least three days.

2. Food
Another no brainer! When packing food in your kit, make sure that all items you select are non-perishable. Canned goods are a great option. Remember to include enough food for three days – but, of course, more is always better! Don’t forget pet food!

3. Can Opener
If you’ve added can food to your kit, you’ll need a way to open it! This one may seem random, but it is important to remember!

4. Flashlight and Extra Batteries
A flashlight will be very useful when the power goes out and you don’t have lights. Be sure to include extra batteries as well!

5. Hand Crank or Battery Powered Radio
If the power goes out, you will not be able to watch your T.V. or local new channels. Having a radio on hand will allow you to be able to stay informed and updated during a storm or disaster.

6. Cell Phone Charger and Back-Up Batteries
In today’s age, we would feel lost without our cellphones. We rely on them to stay in contact with friends and family. So, if an emergency were to happen you want to make that you include backup batters and chargers in your kit, so that you can keep you phone charged.

7. First-Aid Kit
In any type of emergency, it is always a good idea to have a first-aid kit available in case someone get injured. Make sure that you have Neosporin, band-aids and gauze.

8. Matches or Lighter
Packing matches or a lighter and slow burning candle can be a great backup in case something happens to your flashlight.

9. Whistle
A whistle can be used to signal others for help. Three blasts from a whistle is the international signal for distress.

Make sure that all of these items, and anything else you may need to be prepared for an emergency situation, are packed in an easy-to-carry container. Place the container in a convenient location that is each to grab whenever you may need it.

At SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids, our goal is to repair damage from any type of disaster and make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call for all of your restoration needs.

A Brief Overview of our Flood Restoration Services

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

After a flood your house could be covered in mud.

SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids can help!

Flooding can result in extreme water damage. Flooding is one of the most overwhelming disasters that can happen to you, your family and your home. While water is considered to be one of our primary needs, it can also function as a destructive force that can present serious threats to your family and property. Water damage can take on many forms, and you need a professional to accurately determine the extent of the water damage. For this reason, it is important for homeowners affected by flooding to obtain professional flood restoration services from a company like SERVPRO.

One of the most frustrating problems that can result from flood damage is the growth and spread of mold. Mold thrives in damp, humid conditions, which is why flooded homes are subjected to becoming a breeding ground for the fungus. Flood restoration specialists such as SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids are effective in eliminating mold by offering professional, drying and mitigation services.

In addition to preventing mold growth, we can help prevent extensive damage to your electrical systems. Unfortunately, electrical systems which have been exposed to water can begin to malfunction and that can lead to fire or electrocution. It’s crucial that a home impacted by flood water be dried out as quickly as possible.

When flooding has damaged your property, locating professional flood restoration services is a must! When you begin searching for a restoration and mitigation company to assist you, be sure to contact the experts of SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids. We utilizes the latest techniques and have cutting edge equipment and technologies that will get your home back in preloss condition fast. Call us after any flood to learn more about how we can help you restore your home! 

Water damage can happen because of a storm

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

Storms cause water damage to homeowners property

Time to dry out that from your storm damage

When most people think of a water damage, they imagine the aftermath of a heavy rain or severe storm. While we know that lots of time water damage can be caused from a failed plumbing issue, when water damage is from heavy rain and storms it’s usually much more severe. Storm damage to even the most moderately sized home can run a homeowner into thousands of dollars. Expensive furniture, carpets, and other high-end items in the home will only add to the cost of the damage if they are affected. 

When SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids receives a call that a homeowner has water damage from a storm, our professionally trained technicians are ready to respond quickly by removing the water from the home as fast as possible and immediately beginning  the drying of both personal and structural property. One of the pieces of drying equipment our team will set up are dehumidifiers. These machines actually draw water from the air and other surrounding property such as curtains and upholstered furniture. Removing moisture and lowering the humidity level in your home creates a drier environment which allows evaporation to happen more quickly, and this is what helps save building materials like drywall panels.

As the dehumidifiers work, technicians from SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids will begin using extraction devices to dry carpets. For most carpets, that means using extraction wands which effectively remove water from carpets and pads. For heavier, thicker carpets, our team could also use a riding extractor. On this large devise, someone typically rides on top and uses their weight to press down, which allows the machine to remove even more water. No matter what the cost of the carpet, most carpet pads are cheap, and we usually advise replacing them rather than attempting to dry them.

SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids takes these first actions to reduce and eliminate the effects of storm and water damage in area homes. If you need us to help return your home to a safe, dry condition, call us today.

How Air Movers are Placed to Strategically Dry Flood Damage

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO help limit the losses in your home after flooding damage.

Without explanation, large residences can suffer damages flooding situations. The winter season poses a threat of flash flooding as weather alerts reach their peak. Flash floods can travel up to nine feet per second, carrying rocks, gravel and mud with them. The sheer force of rushing water can leave homeowners powerless, as they can break through windows and doors quickly flooding lower levels of homes. While you may not be able to stop floodwaters, you can limit the losses by calling the professionals right away.

Emergency services for flood damage are available in the Roanoke Rapids areas year around. In order to limit losses, it is important to remove the water as quickly as possible. The role of a flood damage restorer does not stop at removing standing water though. Wet or damp properties are just as likely to suffer damages as flooded properties. SERVPRO’s experienced and qualified technicians ensure the drying process is as effective at limiting losses as the removal procedure is at stopping immediate, emergency concerns.

Wet floors raise in-home humidity levels as the moisture evaporates. As water evaporates, it can create a boundary layer of air that inhibits further evaporation. To combat this, SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids’ technicians use air movers to keep air circulating and replace humid boundary layers with dryer sheets. This plays an important role in the length of time it takes to restore your property to its preloss condition.

SERVPRO staff may use as many as 20 air movers to promote constant airflow throughout your property. Air movers use centrifugal motion to circulate large amounts of air and use a daisy chain fitting to ensure multiple units can be set up in a room with just one power cord. The precise placement of these air movers ensures that it’s possible to circulate air from one or two open points of outdoor air. If security is a concern, air movers are positioned in a closed-circuit system which uses dehumidifiers to provide dry air.

Drying flooded property can reduce claims and losses. If your property has suffered flood damage, contact SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids today.

Winter storm warnings in effect

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Winter weather in North Carolina can be very unpredictable. Snow is in the forecast for today and tonight, so here are some things that you can do to make sure your  home, car and any other surrounding areas are ready for our  impending storm. Here are some helpful tips for homeowners;

Tip 1: Salt the driveway and walkways around your house: although the city is typically pretty good about clearing the roads, the sidewalks and pathways are left up to you to clear them. To make things easier on you, once you know that a storm is headed your way, you can spread salt on your driveway and walkway. If you place salt down prior to a snowstorm, you can reduce the amount of ice that forms underneath any accumulating snow.

Tip 2: Keep a steady drip of water in your pipes.  With the snow comes freezing temperatures and this can leave your pipes very vulnerable. Freezing pipes can definitely burst. If you have a slight but steady drip of warm water running, it will help keep your pipes from freezing during these conditions.

Tip 3: Create and have your winter emergency kit ready. If never really know how strong a storm will be, so you need to make sure you keep you and your family safe. One way to do this is by creating and keeping a winter emergency kit on hand. A few things to keep in the kit are batteries, bottled water, blankets, a functioning radio, different types and layers of clothing, and nonperishable food items.

SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids is available 24/7. If you have an emergency, our team is prepared to handle storm damage in Roanoke Rapids. We’re here for both residential and commercial properties in the area. If you need us give us a call!

When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO is ready!

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Eastern North Carolina, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 208.537.3473