Discovered a Puddle? Common Reasons for Water Damage | SERVPRO of Oak Lawn

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage sneaks into our homes when least expected. That's why SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is Here to Help®. Call us today!

How often do you think about the pipes flowing through your home and whether your gutter system needs some TLC? We would imagine that these thoughts don’t pass through your mind on a regular basis. You are busy enough keeping up with your busy family!

However, everything can come grinding to a halt if you come home one day to water all over your kitchen floor or a flooded basement. Knowing where to look when it comes to finding the source of the leak can help you stay in control of the situation. 

Your Trusty Appliances

We use appliances like water heaters, ice makers, fridges and dishwashers on a daily basis, and for the most part, they are reliable machines that help us accomplish our daily tasks. Unfortunately, all it takes is a single malfunction or faulty appliance to cause water to leak out of it and onto your floor.

Check your appliances and the water lines that lead to and from them regularly, and consider pulling them away from the wall to check for puddles or water spots behind each machine. In addition, you should check all the caulk lines and water connections from around tubs, sinks, toilets and showers. Even a single drip could leak gallons of water a day. 

The Force of Mother Nature

Storms can be brutal at any point in the year. The spring and summer seasons can cause heavy rain to fall that can infiltrate our homes, and the winter season can bring intense snowstorms that lead to ice dams, clogged gutters and roof damage. 

Clear out your gutters regularly during the spring and summer, and make sure they are clear again before the snow falls. While snow won’t melt down your gutters in the winter, it will eventually need to in the spring and a single clog or blockage can be disastrous for your home.

Floods can also be destructive and cause significant water damage. If your home is located in a flood zone, professionally grading your yard to slope down and away from your home can help you stay dry no matter what is going on outside. If that is not a possibility, investing in a sump pump can help keep water away as well. 

The Water Damage Restoration Process
Whether your kitchen is flooded due to an overwhelmed dishwasher or the last seasonal storm led to water leaking down your walls, we have you covered. Our team will jump into action to dry out your home and address repairs right away. The longer water sits, the higher the risk for mold growth and long-term structural issues, so we get right to work!

Our industry-leading drying equipment will remove the water while our talented team will fix warped floors, soggy walls and even tackle carpet replacement. We proudly do it all so you can get back to your regular life as soon as possible.

Got water damage? Give SERVPRO of Oak Lawn a call for immediate restoration assistance. 

Water Damage Doesn't Stand a Chance When SERVPRO Is On The Job!

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

Chances are you take great pride in your property, whether you own a business, apartment complex, small business, or home.  Suppose you arrive home one evening after work and come across a burst pipe, sewer backup, or leaky water heater in your home. Whichever the case may be, a continuous trickle or a large amount of water damage can lead to a disaster and requires immediate cleanup. SERVPRO of Oak Lawn specializes in extraction and water damage restoration. 

In these situations, always try to remember safety first.  When water damage happens it can be very stressful and sometimes even dangerous.  

If not acted upon quickly, any amount of water accumulation can lead to larger problems such as mold and mildew, further damage to walls, ceilings and floors, or even the outer structure of your home or property.  

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn strives to provide the best possible service all of the time.  No matter how big or small your water damage may be, we have the proper training, equipment, and products to restore your home or business to preloss state.  

Call us today (708) 239-1444

Flooding in your Oak Lawn Business

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

The weather has been very unpredictable the past few weeks in our area.  We have experience heavy rains in a short period of time causing the sewer systems to back up and streets to flood. 

If you see there is a flash flood watch, this means that a flash flood is possible.  A flash flood warning means that a flood is about to happen or already taking place.  If a flash flood occurs, you should make sure everyone gets to higher ground as quickly as possible. 

Your business can prepare for any potential disaster, including flash floods. Keep all essential equipment and documents elevated from the floor.  Ideally, they should be stored on the second floor of the building or higher.  Back-up electronic data daily to cloud storage or to an external drive so the files can still be accessed in the event of a disaster.  

It is a good idea to have a battery-powered radio available on-site.  In case of a power outage, you and your staff can keep updated on the current conditions.  (FEMA) The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides a list of recommended supplies in the event of a disaster, such as a flashlight and first aid kit. 

You can also check with the National Weather Service to get more tips on safety during flooding. 

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn can help your business get back on track after flooding or other disasters.  Call us today for more information or a free inspection (708) 239-1444

Sump Pump Failure

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

With power outages comes sump pump failures which can cause flooding throughout the home. SERVPRO was dispatched to several dozen homes in the area with inches to feet of standing water in their basement due to power outages. Our certified crews went out to the homes and extracted the standing water, pulled out any saturated flooring and baseboards, then set up dehumidifiers and air movers in the areas needed to get rid of the moisture. One way to prevent this sump pump failure issue due to power loss is to invest in a generator at your home.  Don't hesitate to give us a call if you suffer any water damage in your home or business.  We pride ourselves in excellent customer service and hope to make your disaster "Like it never even happened."

Your Basement Could Flood At Anytime: Do You Have A Plan?

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Alsip basement could flood, including: 

• A sewer pipe that is blocked or cracked
• Surface water from heavy rains that can pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get. The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. 

If you have questions call us 24/7

(708) 239-1444.

Water Damage Can Be Devastating, But SERVPRO Can Help

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

In these situations, always try to remember safety first.  When water damage happens it can be very stressful and sometimes even dangerous.  

If not acted upon quickly, any amount of water accumulation can lead to larger problems such as mold and mildew, further damage to walls, ceilings and floors, or even the outer structure of your home or property.  

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn strives to provide the best possible service all of the time.  No matter how big or small your water damage may be, we have the proper training, equipment, and products to restore your home or business to preloss state.  

Call us today (708) 239-1444

If Your Oak Lawn Residence Needs Dried Out Due To Water - SERVPRO Is Here

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

Leaking can occur for several reasons, from poor insulation for the plumbing in your Oak Lawn home to exterior damage on the connection points. Persistent leaks might not flood your house, but they do require immediate attention to prevent the situation from getting worse.

Water damage to Oak Lawn homes that exist in ceiling structural cavities must get addressed using controlled demolition tactics and drying equipment. With an in-house roster of contractors, our SERVPRO team can provide real-time, minimalistic demolition was necessary to grant access to saturated materials in the ceiling assemblies and access to the compromised portions of the pipe.

What can you expect when our professionals arrive at your water-damaged home?

    •    Fast and confident action to make real-time drying decisions
    •    Advanced technologies and equipment to extract water and dry materials
    •    Experienced contractors to rebuild after restoration.

Water damages can be destructive to your home, but SERVPRO of Oak Lawn can help. Give us a call today (708) 239-1444. 

SERVPRO Is Your #1 Water Removal And Cleanup Specialists Ready To Serve

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO leads in the water restoration industry, and can be trusted to help remediate your water loss.

Hickory Hills water damage can be a real problem if there is a leak or flood in your home. Water can easily destroy the walls, floors and structure of your house. It can cause dangerous mold to grow. It can ruin personal possessions and appliances. You should know what to do when faced with a water leak or flood.

Try To Stop the Leak

The first step is to try to stop the leak. Find the source of the water. If there are shutoff valves nearby, then turn them off to stop the flow of water. Alternately, you could turn off the water mains to the entire house. If neither of these steps is an option, then you might be able to seal off the source of the leak with duct tape, rags or other materials. Attempt to do this only if you can walk safely through the water.

Stop the Water from Spreading

If your home is flooding, then try to stop the water from spreading. You can use sandbags, towels or other items to create a barrier that the water cannot pass through. This will help even if you can just slow the water down a little from flowing freely into your home. You could also attempt to put down towels if the water is very shallow. This will help to limit the amount of water damage.

Get Your Possessions off The Ground

If you have possessions on the ground where the water is leaking, then pick them up. Pick up rugs, furniture and anything else. You do not want the water to destroy those items. Additionally, porous items like paper, fabrics or wood can become sources of mold after the water stops leaking. Put your items somewhere high up so that they are not in danger. Hang up any wet or soaked items to dry if possible.

Contact a Restoration Service

You should contact a restoration service like SERVPRO as soon as you realize that there is a leak and have stabilized the situation. These professionals will come into your home, remove the water and start dealing with the damage. They can dry out you floors, walls, and some personal possessions. They can also remove damaged parts of the home that are not salvageable. Restoration services are critical for recovering from water, leaks or floods..

Take Preventative Action

You want to take some preventative action after the restoration company has finished. You want to inspect your plumbing regularly. Check and maintain your appliances. Have your roof checked for damage on an annual basis. Keep the number for the restoration company handy just in case. These steps will reduce the chance that you will have to deal with serious water damage again in the future.

The True Story Of SERVPRO - Where It All Began

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

In a continual commitment to provide the best support in the industry, the leadership team places a strong emphasis on their ONE TEAM culture focused.

Ted and Doris Isaacson launched SERVPRO in 1967 as a painting business in Sacramento, Calif. With a background in cleaning and restoration, however, Ted and Doris soon transformed the company into a franchisor of cleanup and restoration specialists.

After selling its first Franchise in 1969, SERVPRO continued to grow, acquiring the Bristol-Myers Domesticare Division and its 175 Franchises in 1979.

SERVPRO relocated the corporate headquarters from Sacramento to Gallatin, TN, in 1988 in a strategic move to place itself within 600 miles of 50% of the U.S. population.

At the time of the relocation, the SERVPRO System consisted of 647 Franchises.

SERVPRO Corporate quickly became a key contributor in its community, and in 1991 the Nashville Business Journal named SERVPRO the Small Business of the Year. In the meantime the company continued its impressive growth, selling the 1,000th Franchise in 2000. Learn more about our Awards and Recognition.

In 2005, SERVPRO moved to a 140,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility in Gallatin to provide more room for expansion.

More than 1,900 Franchises are operating nationwide, and SERVPRO continues to grow. The need for experienced, trained and professional cleanup and restoration experts is recession resistant, and the growth potential inside of a proven system presents an opportunity for prospective Franchisees.

With a proud history, a successful present and a bright future, SERVPRO will press on toward becoming the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world.

For Water Damage Restoration In Oak Lawn For 24/7 Quick Emergency Response

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Quick service is essential if you have experienced water damage in your home or business.

If your home has sustained major water damage, you may feel like your home will never recover. Water damage due to natural occurrence such as flooding or plumbing pipe breakage can seem like the end of the world, especially if you are standing in a foot of water inside your home. However there is a solution.  Water damage can be taken care by our trained experts in water damage restoration. 

Quick Service is Essential.

Once your home has suffered water damage, you need access to restoration services quickly.  The water will need to be completely removed quickly in order to prevent mold and mildew growth in the home.  We want to make sure you don't experience any more damage than what the water has already caused.

Thorough Restoration Process

Every step must be followed carefully to ensure water is not left behind.  The water will need to removed completely and dehumidifying processes provided to completely dry the space. Unfortunately, some of your items may be damage beyond repair and will need to be removed from the space.  Other items that are salvageable, will be moved to a new location for restoration.

Let our trained experts help you restore  your water damaged home. 

Call us today (708) 239-1444

Do You Know How Powerful Destructive Water Damage Can Be?

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Timely and effective intervention of water damage can help reduce the damages.

Water is the single most long-term destructive substance in the indoor environment. If there is excess moisture or the structure has ever experienced any flooding, this can cause the property to rapidly deteriorate. If there is unsanitary water or clean-up services are delayed this can lead to more serious problems.

If the water is dealt with during the first 24-48 hours, the harmful effects can be drastically reduced.  Even though the damage may look severe, cleanup and restoration can produce amazing results. 

Some of the places that water damage can occur are:

• Partition walls
• Flooring
• Internal walls
• Masonry
• Balcony
• Suspended ceiling
• Foundation/ground slab
• Foundation walls

As leaders in the water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-water-damage condition. Our process includes documentation of the drying process to validate your property is dry. Learn about our water damage training and certificates.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is locally owned and operated—so we are part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to large scale disasters.

We are proud to serve our local communities.

Water Damage Or Flooded Basement? SERVPRO Is Here To Help!

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Documents damaged in a basement flood.

Flooded Basement Cleanup In Chicago Ridge, IL

Most often, basements flood during a heavy rainfall although it can happen at any time.  Basements are unfortunately prone to flooding since they are the lowest level of a building and are usually built partly or entirely below ground level. Here are some reasons why your basement can flood: 

• A blocked or failed sewer pipe
• Heavy rain causing surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage issues
• Water supply-line or hot-water tank failure

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety and may cause damage to your homes structure.  Remember, the longer you wait the worse your problem can get. 

Do you have questions about basement flooding? Call our office today (708) 239-1444

Your Convenient Ice? It Could Be A Water Disaster!

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Any of your appliances connected to a water line could potentially cause water damage. One of the most frequent problems that we see is water damage from a leaky refrigerator. Unlike other types of water damage, this can happen over a long period of time without the homeowner noticing it, since the damage is hidden under and behind the refrigerator. 

If you have the ice maker connected to the water line, make sure the line fittings are secured. Check water valves and defrost drains for leaks or cracks.  If the fridge has a clogged defrost drain, the water may leak into the lower compartment of your fridge and could then run onto the floor. Condensation may be another reason why water is collecting around the fridge, since it can run down the walls and into the floor. The best way to avoid dealing with water damage cause by your fridge is to regularly check and maintain the appliance.

If you have had water damage caused by one of your appliances, call us today (708) 239-1444. We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened." 

Water Removal In Your Chicago Ridge Home

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Many of the materials used to renovate a Chicago home arrive from various distances. Some items need to adjust to the Windy City’s climate, especially the amount of moisture these materials contain. Accidents and mishaps do happen, and when these involve water from a broken water line or a slipped tarp that lets in rain, getting these dry again can save your investment while reducing changes to the schedule.

This is only one reason why homeowners in Chicago Ridge might need water removal services at their residence. There are many other situations where the interior of a residence might become damp, wet, or even flooded. SERVPRO is always ready to assist property owners in the area with all of these. No job is ever too large, overly complicated, or too small.

We arrive in our Green Fleet, which we keep stocked with the disposable items needed during most jobs, as well as the equipment and machines used during water removal and drying tasks. We also carry the diagnostic tools that help us locate migrated water, slightly damp materials, hidden water, and leaks, as well as determine the moisture contained in affected materials. We compare initial baselines to readings taken later, during the water removal and drying process, so we know the effectiveness of our machines.

Different variables can change the rate at which materials dry. The material itself can make drying out slower, as can cooler temperatures and a lack of air currents. Damp air can also make water removal take longer. We change these conditions to gain optimal drying rates.

Additional equipment, including our pump trucks, help us extract any standing water that might exist in your house. A smaller amount of water also needs to be removed. This can happen quickly with portable units that we attach to the pump truck or to another container to receive the water.

When we locate water, trapped inside walls, or other enclosed locations, we remove this with small drain holes made in inconspicuous or hidden locations. Forcing these locations full of warm, dry air, with another opening to allow for venting, gets these locations dry.

When materials need to have excess moisture or water removed, we can build an enclosure called a drying chamber, around them. We use the same equipment in a similar manner with these chambers. We also monitor the materials to ensure they do not become overly dry, as this can also cause problems.

Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn today (708) 239-1444 and we can help your home recover from any accident that left things wet.  Water removal takes much less time than air-drying alone and provides much better results.  

Water Damage From A Sink Overflow

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

A sink that overflows can create just a small amount of water damage if it is caught quickly. However, if it is unchecked for several hours, the results can be devastating. It is one of those human errors that are seemingly small, but that can lead to huge consequences. Plus, if the overflow occurs on an upper level of your residence, you can easily wind up with a total home water loss.

It is important that water restoration begins as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home. SERVPRO can help. We have the training and experience required to get your home back to its preloss condition. 

Water from your sink is safe for consumption. Therefore, there are not many bacteria that can cause harm right away. The threat, however, develops if a fair amount of time passes before you have the water cleaned up. Temperature and time let bacteria and mold grow and thrive, which heightens the contamination and water damage. Our technicians check your home for hidden moisture or mold growth once we have all the standing water cleaned up. 

We also communicate with your insurance company, so it is a worry that you do not have to handle on your own. Instead, you can focus on your family and their needs while we take care of getting the coverage that you deserve.

If you have water damage in your home call us today (708) 239-1444.

Water Damage Experts In Oak Lawn

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

When a water leak takes place inside your Oak Lawn home or business, excessive moisture can negatively affect your contents and building materials. The longer things stay wet, the more likely they will get ruined and need to be replaced. Over time water saturates materials and causes them to lose their structural integrity and fall apart. The organic materials inside your home carry a risk of mold contamination if they stay wet for more than 48 hours.

If moisture stays inside contents and materials, the severity of the problems increase. Our SERVPRO technician's goal is to prevent secondary issues. When water directly affects an object the problems that occur are considered primary. Secondary damage results when water vapor penetrates items and negatively affects them. Therefore, prompt mitigation can greatly reduce the amount of water vapor present in the air, reducing the chance of suffering secondary issues.

The first step to moisture removal is to extract as much water as possible using specialized equipment. Once the extractors get to the point where they are no longer pulling up water, the rapid drying phase begins. The goal of drying is to speed up the natural evaporation process and return moisture levels to normal as quickly as possible.

Since things in nature always seek equilibrium, we know that water from wet materials will evaporate into dry air sitting next to it. This is why we set up air movers to push air across surfaces so that the air next to wet materials stays dry allowing it to collect moisture. However, once all of the air in the room gets saturated, the moisture must be removed from the air. To lower a building’s relative humidity, we set up dehumidifiers that pull vapor out of the air and dispense it in liquid form.

To accomplish speedy drying, our SERVPRO crew uses principles of psychrometry. Psychrometry is the study of the humidity, air, and temperature, and their effect on various materials. Since air can hold more water at higher temperatures, humidity, airflow, and temperature all play major roles in determining how fast materials dry. High relative humidity numbers can slow down drying because the air must have less moisture than the affected materials for water to evaporate. Higher temperatures lower a room’s relative humidity thus speeding up drying.

Structures dry out best when they have constant airflow, high temperatures, and low relative humidity percentages. This is why we use air movers to create circulation, dehumidifiers to keep humidity low, and heaters to raise the temperature. 

If you need help drying out moisture before more problems arise, call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn today (708) 239-1444 24/7. 

Water Removal Services In Oak Lawn

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we receive many flooding emergencies involving dishwashers that have overflowed and caused damage to floors and other nearby areas. Water damage from a malfunctioned appliance can paralyze activities in the kitchen and lead to all sorts of odors. In fact, it's one of the most frequent causes of moisture damage in the house.

One of the most frequent mistakes property owners make in this situation is assuming that only the floors require water removal. After moping out the water with some towels, they sit back satisfied that the job is done. Unfortunately, when water overflows from the dishwasher, it tends to spread to other parts of the home. It can soak the kitchen cabinets or even permeate the floors and make its way to the crawlspace below. In some cases, it can penetrate the walls and soak up your insulation or even cause damage to electrical sockets in the walls.

The secret to effective water removal when a dishwasher overflows or malfunctions is acting fast. SERVPRO of Oak Lawn offers 24/7 quick water removal services. For emergency services call us today (708) 239-1444. 

Water Damage From Hot Water Tank In Oak Lawn IL

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your basement call us 24/7 365 days a year

A Water Damage Emergency

A number of emergency calls that we receive are from homeowners who were away on vacation and came home to a flood in their basement.  There have been a few different reasons, sump pump failing, pipe breaks from a floor above, or maybe the hot water tank decided to start leaking.  

A water heater typically lasts between 8-12 years if it is maintained properly.  You can prevent rust and corrosion by flushing out the sediment at the bottom of the tank.  This may also help the overall efficiency of the unit. If you are unsure about the age of your water heater, you can call your local plumber to come out and do an inspection of it for you. 

if you do come home from vacation to a basement full of water for any reason, call us 24/7 (708) 239-1444 and we can help. 

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

SERVPRO Specializes In Flooded Basement Cleanup And Restoration

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is available 24/7 to handle your water damage emergency

Most flooding that occurs in your basement happens during a heavy rainfall. However, we are here to tell you that it can happy at any time for various reasons that you may not think of. 

Basements are unfortunately prone to flooding since they are the lowest level of a building and are built partly or entirely below ground level.  

Here are a few reasons why your basement could flood: 

• A Water supply-line break 
• Hot water tank failure
• Foundation drainage issues
• Sewer backup
• Heavy rains pooling around your home
• Blocked or failed sewer pipe

Flood water should be handled quickly and properly. If it sits for an extended period of time it can jeopardize your health and safety as well as cause severe damage to your home's integrity. 

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is locally owned an operated. If you have an emergency in the middle of the night or anytime you can call us (708) 239-1444. We are available 24/7 and we pride ourselves on being at your home within the hour after you call. 

Emergency Water Damage Cleanup In Worth

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

Emergency Water Damage Cleanup In Worth, IL

Whether you own a large business, apartment complex, small business, or home, chances are you take great pride in your property.  Suppose you arrive home one evening after work and come across a burst pipe, sewer backup, or leaky water heater in your home. Whichever the case may be, a continuous trickle or a large amount of water damage can lead to a disaster and requires immediate cleanup.  SERVPRO of Oak Lawn specializes in extraction and water damage restoration.

In these situations, always try to remember safety first.  When water damage occurs, it can be very stressful and sometimes even dangerous.  If not acted upon quickly, any amount of water accumulation can lead to larger problems such as mold and mildew.  Further damage to walls, ceilings and floors, or even the outer structure of your home or property.  

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn strives to provide the best possible service every time. No matter how big or small your water damage may be, we have the proper training, equipment, and products to restore your home or business to preloss state.  

Call us today (708) 239-1444

Ice Dams: The Nightmare

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Ice formed on roof of home causing damage to ceiling and walls.

There is nothing worse than thinking you made it through months of continuous snow storms and frigid temperatures without a problem, then looking up at your ceiling and noticing dripping water or water marks and bubbling paint. This could be a sure sign of an...

*cue dramatic music* ICE DAM.

Ice Dams are caused by water that has pooled behind the snow and ice on your roof. The water will then seep under the shingles, drip through the roof into the soffits, walls and the ceiling leaving an ugly mess.

Many people are not aware of the damage ice dams can cause until it affects their home. Knowing and understanding the potential issues that can occur in and around your home during horrible winter weather can keep your home safe.

Keeping your attic cold by adding roof and soffit vents, properly insulating your home and attic to prevent heat from escaping and/or purchasing a roof rake to remove the snow while standing on the ground can possibly prevent ice dams. Please note CLIMBING ON YOUR ROOF CAN BE DANGEROUS so if you are unable to remove the snow safely please contact a professional.

If you have questions about ice dams or water damage, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We are here to help and can send a certified technician to your home to assess the problem, answer questions regarding contacting your insurance company, if needed and provide an estimate for mitigation.

We can turn your weather related DAMage into a thing of the past!

We are available 24/7 @ (708) 239-1444

Winter Snow Storms In Oak Lawn, IL

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

Anyone who lives in Chicago knows the weather here can be unpredictable to say the least. Weather forecasters are speculating we will get anywhere between 5-10 inches this coming weekend and this forecast changes pretty much daily. Then after the snow into next week we are supposed to have below freezing temperatures. 

When we get a large amount of snow and then it freezes, this could cause issues for your gutters if they haven't been cleared of the fall leaves. It could also be a problem if you do not have the proper insulation in your attic. When the water starts to melt, it could try to find a way into your home and down your walls. This could lead to structural problems and mold and mildew if not cleaned up properly. 

If you start to notice water spots on your ceiling or walls, call us today to come out to inspect it for you. (708) 239-1444

Drive safely and stay warm! 

Flooded Basement In Oak Lawn IL

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Oak Lawn basement could flood, including: 

• A sewer pipe that is blocked or cracked
• Surface water from heavy rains that can pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get. The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. 

If you have questions call us 24/7 (708) 239-1444.

It's The Water You Don't See

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Your home is your safe haven and should be a place of rest.  But when water begins leaking-even small leaks in areas you can't see-your home could quickly become a source of stress.  The possibility of harmful mold, rot and unseen damage may affect the value of your home and the health of loved ones.  

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn understands how disruptive water damages can be for your entire family and will help ensure the water is identified, regardless of where it hides.  That's why we offer 24-hour emergency response by trained, uniformed professionals.  With top-of-the-line equipment and time-tested cleanup and restoration techniques, we have the expertise to help make your house feel like a home again. 

After all, when it comes to your home and your family, even small disasters can feel like huge problems.  So if water damage occurs in your home, just call (708) 239-1444 and we will be there to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Sewage Cleanup in Oak Lawn

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

A sewage backup in your home or business can be a stressful nightmare.  In just a matter of minutes, your home can be suddenly overwhelmed with water contaminated with waste and bacteria.  When a sewage backup or overflow happens, cleaning it up quickly is very important. 

Our technicians are certified to clean up sewage backups safely.  They will do so with the following steps: 

1. Remove sewage and water. By utilizing special equipment including commercial grade vacuums and pumps, toxic water is safely removed from the premises. 

2. Removing contaminated property. Our crew will safely remove any items that have been affected by the sewage water. This may include furniture, carpet and any other items the contaminated water may have touched.  

3.  Drying out the home. Professional-grade air movers will be brought in to dry out any affected areas. 

4. Sanitizing. By doing a thorough cleaning of the affected areas, this will help prevent the spread of anything harmful that may have been in the contaminated water. Proper treatment of the areas is also necessary to prevent mold growth.  

If your home has been affected by a sewage backup and you need assistance, call us today (708) 239-1444

Spring Maintenance

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

Spring is just around the corner! Many homeowners believe that spring maintenance is just about cleaning.  Of course, spring cleaning is a big part of a spring home maintenance schedule, but overall maintenance of the structure and appliance is also important.  All homeowners love to see spotless windows on the first sunny 70 degree day, but don't forget your roof and the ice dams that may have formed over the winter.  

Spring Maintenance Checklist

• Gutters and downspouts: Check your gutters and downspouts for leaves and debris that have collected over the fall and winter. You can also run a hose on your roof and check for proper drainage.  If you happen to find a leak, dry the area and make sure it is sealed up properly with caulk or epoxy. 
• Siding: Clean your siding to prevent mold from growing.  Check any wood surfaces for weathering and pant chipping. If wood is showing through, sand the area, prime and paint.  
• Exterior Caulking: Inspect caulking and replace if deteriorating.  Recaulk areas if needed. 
• Window Sills, Door Sills, and Thresholds: Fill cracks, caulk edges or replace if you need to. 
• Window and Door Screens: Clean your screens and check for holes.  If you have any holes that are bigger than a quarter, patch the holes or replace the screen.  Otherwise you might end up with bugs in your home when your windows are open. 
• Deck and Porches: Check your railings on your deck and porch to make sure they are not loose.  

By following some simple home maintenance tips each season, you can ensure your home is running properly year round. 

Frozen Pipe Water Damage In Oak Lawn

1/17/2018 (Permalink)

Winter is here! While we have been lucky to have mostly above average temperatures so far, this season, cold weather is predicted in our near forecast. This means it’s time to keep an eye on your pipes when the temperatures do drop below freezing. 

Here are a few tips to remember:

• Check around your home or business for areas where water supply lines are in unheated areas. Wrap exposed pipes with foam, insulated materials or pipe heating cables. Watch these locations on a daily basis when temperatures is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
• If you are going out of town, and you suspect that temperatures will drop, turn off the water to your home and open all the taps to drain the water system. Set your temperature no lower than 55° F.
• Unhook the water hoses from the exterior of the home and bring them inside, to maintain their life.
• Drip your faucets, to reduce the build-up of pressure in the pipes during an arctic blast weather advisory.
• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much costlier repair job if pipes freeze and burst
• Open cabinet doors when temperatures are below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The warm air can circulate around the pipes and prevent the water from freezing.

Popular Locations of Frozen Pipes:

• Outside wall
• Under a sink
• Unheated crawlspace or basement
• Outside water spigot
• Swimming pool supply lines
• Water sprinkler lines
• Attics
• Garages

Tips on Thawing Frozen Pipes:

• If a pipe bursts before it is thawed, immediately shut off the water at the water main to prevent further damage!
• Frozen but not ruptured? If you turn on the faucet and the water doesn’t come out or comes out in a trickle, your pipes are probably frozen. You need to act quickly to thaw the frozen pipe before it bursts.
• Identify the frozen water supply pipe.
• Open a faucet supplied by the frozen line, even if you have not found the frozen spot.
• To find the blockage, follow the pipe back from the faucet to where it runs through cold areas such as an exterior wall, unheated crawl space or in some cases an unheated basement if the pipe is near an outside wall.
• Often the frozen area of the pipe will be frosted or have ice on it. If the situation is getting critical the pipe may be slightly bulged or look slightly fissured.

Frozen Pipe Behind a Wall:

• Leave the main water valve near your water meter open when thawing the pipe.
• If the frozen pipe is behind a wall or ceiling, you’ve got a challenge on your hands. You have three choices:
• Turn up the heat in the house and wait.
• Use an infrared lamp or lamps to heat the wall where you think the frozen area is located. Infrared lamps are better than regular heat lamps because the heat passes through the air without heating it, directing more energy to warming the wall and frozen pipe.
• Tear out part of the wall or ceiling to get at the frozen section of pipe. Then thaw the pipe as an exposed pipe.

If Your Pipes Burst…

• Turn off the water supply. Locate your water shut off valve and turn off the main water shut-off valve. You should find this in the basement or where the service pipe enters your home. Drain the system by turning on all your cold-water valves.

What You Can Do to Manage the Damage (until we get there):

• Water Buckets. If you notice the leak quickly you can catch dripping water in buckets.
• Make a hole in the ceiling to let water out.
• Turn off electronics/appliances
• Open Drawers, closets and cabinet doors to in enhance drying.

 Call us today (708) 239-1444

Save Money With These Tips

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

Your home is likely your biggest investment, and requires routine maintenance to keep it in good shape. Some things can be tackled on an annual basis while others should be done monthly. Here is our suggested list to keep your home running smoothly though out the year. 

Monthly

Frequently used items require regular attention.  Clean out your garbage disposal and regularly replace air filters. You should also periodically check your roof for leaks.

Seasonally

A seasonal checklist is easiest during mild weather.  Commit to a few simple things like trimming trees and shrubs away from your home's exterior.  While you are out there, check our gutters and clean out any leaves or debris that can lead to water backup.

Also, take a moment to inspect the weatherstripping that is around windows and doors.  If you see cracks or broken seals, this is an easy replacement that will save money on heating and cooling costs. 

Annually

Inspect all your fire extinguishers and make sure they are up to date and fully pressurized.  Set aside one day a year to do things like schedule a chimney cleaning and have your HVAC system inspected. 

Organizing home maintenance tasks into a manageable schedule can help your prioritize prevention and save you money in the long run. 

Water Damage Advice For Oak Lawn

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Although there is a variety of potential problems that property owners in Oak lawn dread, water damage typically tops the list. Oak Lawn water damage can result from different factors, including heavy rain, snow, natural disasters, a leaky pipe or appliance. Irrespective of the cause, water damage ramifications are issues that residential property owners need to understand thoroughly. To get a basic understanding of what water damage is and how it should be addressed, refer to the following quick reference guide:

Water damage: Identifying Some of The Causes from This Short List.

• leaky dishwashers
• broken pipes
• overflowing washing machines
• plumbing leaks
• foundation cracks or a damaged roof
• floods
• heavy rain

Categories of Water That Cause Water Damage

As water damage restoration specialists from SERVPRO know, there are several categories of water leading to water damage. The concern for the rate of water removal escalates as the Category number increases. Category 1 is clean water, and this is a type of water that poses no serious threat to people. This is drinking water (potable) that is in a place it should not be. Category 2 is gray water, and this type of water is contaminated and can cause illness when ingested. This may be soapy dishwater, standing water on a floor or waste water containing urine. Category 3 is black water. This type of water is unsanitary and dangerous because it contains bacteria that can cause sickness. Black water results from sewage issues and standing water that has been contaminated. This category of water requires immediate water removal.

Water Damage: The Restoration Process

Water damage restoration is an important process. When done expediently by expert technicians from SERVPRO, water restoration enables residential owners to minimize the adverse effects to their personal belongings and lessen or prevent structural damage. However, the efficacy of their efforts is typically contingent upon the amount of water that caused the damage as well as the severity of the damage. These water removal specialists will use special equipment and proven methodologies to control water damage and limit its debilitating effects.

Although water damage can be a difficult situation, securing the services of a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO takes the pressure off of you. It allows you to sit back and watch how your home in Hickory Hills is restored to its pre-water damaged condition. If you need our services, we are only minutes away from your property.

Residential and Commercial Water Damage Restoration After Floods

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

Chicago has been nicknamed the "windy city" but in our business it seems it should be called the "city of flooded basements." Over recent years, we have seen an increase in the number of floods that have hit the city and suburbs and it is worth taking notice.

When the number of floods rise, so do water emergencies.  Whether it is a burst pipe, sump pump failure or other water issues, they must be cleaned up quickly in order to minimize damage. Even water amounts that seem minimal, if they sit too long, can cause structural damage. This can also lead to a higher cost to repair in the long run. 

If you have experienced flooding in your home or business and need assistance call us today (708)239-1444.