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Archived Water Damage Blog Posts

Fall is Coming! Preparing Your Home | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

9/3/2024 (Permalink)

bright orange and yellow fall foliage in the gutter of a residential home Safeguarding your home from water damage is easy this Fall with these insights from SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties!

As fall arrives and temperatures start to drop, it’s crucial for homeowners in Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties to prepare their homes for the seasonal changes. The transition into cooler weather brings its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to preventing water damage.

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties offers valuable tips to help you protect your property and avoid common fall-related water damage issues.

Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts

With the onset of fall, leaves and debris can quickly accumulate in your gutters and downspouts. This can lead to blockages that prevent proper drainage, resulting in water overflow that can damage your roof, siding, and foundation. To avoid these problems, make it a priority to clean your gutters and downspouts before the peak of the fall foliage.

Ensure that water is being directed away from your home’s foundation by keeping these systems clear. Regular maintenance will help prevent water from pooling or seeping into vulnerable areas, safeguarding your home against potential damage.

Check for Roof and Siding Issues

Fall weather can be tough on your home’s exterior, so it’s essential to inspect your roof and siding for any signs of damage. Look for missing or damaged shingles, as well as any cracks or gaps in your siding. These issues can become more problematic with the arrival of heavy rain and strong winds.

Prompt repairs are key to maintaining the integrity of your home and preventing water from infiltrating. Addressing these problems early will help avoid more extensive and costly repairs in the future.

Watch for Freezing Temperatures and Frozen Pipes

As temperatures drop, frozen pipes become a significant concern. Water inside pipes can freeze and expand, leading to bursts and serious water damage. To protect your plumbing, insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements and crawl spaces. Keep garage doors closed, particularly if there are water supply lines within.

During periods of extreme cold, let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving and reduce the risk of freezing. Monitoring weather forecasts and taking preventive measures when temperatures are expected to fall will help safeguard your home from potential water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Taking these steps to prepare your home for fall can significantly reduce the risk of water damage and keep your property in good condition. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is here to assist you with expert advice and support in managing water damage issues. If you need help with water damage prevention or recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our dedicated team is ready to help ensure your home remains safe and dry throughout the fall season and beyond.

Contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties today to discover how we can help protect your home.

Preventing Stinky Odors After a Water Disaster | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

water dripping from ceiling into a large puddle on tile floor Trust SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties to provide comprehensive services for a full recovery for all your water damage restoration needs.

Upon arriving home from work, you may discover an unwelcome surprise—a water leak. Perhaps your dishwasher malfunctioned while you were away, and water is now all over your floor. Or maybe you left a window open and rain came pouring in, leaving your wall soaking wet.

While your first instinct may be to grab a mop and bucket or towels to clean up the mess, it is important to understand that this may not be enough to fully address the issue. If the water has been left to leak throughout your house for any period of time, you could be facing a much larger problem than a simple puddle.

To avoid serious issues like mold growth, rot and unpleasant odors like mildew, it is crucial to deal with water disasters quickly by hiring a professional to help. We are ready for your phone call!

Addressing the Leak Quickly

Once water starts to leak and seep where it shouldn’t in your home, it will begin to infiltrate areas that can be really hard to reach. The tiniest of cracks and crevices can easily invite water into them, which can cause even more issues for you in the long run.

When you encounter a water leak at home, you might be tempted to use towels to clean up the visible water. However, this will not address the lingering moisture behind your drywall or under your floorboards. This kind of moisture doesn’t evaporate easily and can cause further damage if not properly dealt with. Without proper air movement, the moisture can remain hidden, leading to structural degradation, rusting of metal support systems and even mold growth.

It is essential to address water leaks immediately by calling in professionals to prevent long-term damage to your home. Don’t wait longer than a day, as it only takes as little as 24 hours for a mold outbreak to develop.

Using Your Nose

A classic indication of mold and mildew is the unpleasant odor they produce. If you smell a musty or earthy scent a few days after cleaning up a water leak, it might be time to track down the source.

However, it can be challenging to do so if you suspect that something harmful is growing behind your walls. Fortunately, our professional water damage restoration team is highly skilled in reversing water damage and addressing issues caused by lingering moisture.

Our services include repairing warped walls, restoring swollen floorboards and locating mold infestations or musty smells left over after a water disaster. Our team of odor removal experts will secure the area by turning off vents and your HVAC system. Then we will filter the air to eliminate stubborn odor particles and clean and sanitize the surface to remove any remaining residue.

When it comes to water damage and the unpleasant odors it can leave behind, you can trust that our restoration team will provide you with comprehensive services.

Don’t ignore signs of a water leak. Contact SERVPRO® for a full recovery.

The Basics of Seasonal Flood Prevention | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

3/15/2024 (Permalink)

When life gets tricky, sometimes it is best to take things back to the basics. Dealing with frustrating math homework, getting stumped over how to fix a leaky sink, or struggling with a work conflict can all sometimes be handled easier when you start at the beginning.

The same holds true for disaster preparedness. Starting with what you know and working your way forward can make sure your home is ready for anything, especially when it comes to floods.

Unfortunately, flooding emergencies are a common issue, so doing what you can to prevent serious damage can help minimize your situation.

Understanding Your Zones

Flooding can happen in a variety of different ways, even if it is not actively raining. Broken dams or levees, busted water lines or faulty appliances can all lead to watery messes. Of course, Mother Nature can also bring heavy rain that can cause water to infiltrate your home as well.

Being surrounded by lakes and rivers makes our community susceptible to flooding whenever we are experiencing a particularly wet season. This is why knowing your property’s flood risk is crucial to your safety.

Even if your property isn’t in a specific flood zone, it is still important for you to prepare for the possibility of a flood. Low-lying areas of your property can easily fill up with water or heavy rain can fall fast enough to overwhelm the earth around your home. Install longer downspouts to help keep the water farther away from your home or add extra drainage so your property can stay dry no matter what.

It wouldn’t be northern Wisconsin without all of the wonderful tree coverage in our area, but the trees and vegetation can be troublesome when it comes to rain and flooding issues. Install gutter covers for your gutter system to help reduce the risk of clogs or blockages in your lines, and get in the habit of checking your roof regularly for signs of damage.

Future Preparation Tips

Even if you property does flood, you can still learn from it and you can take permanent steps to help prevent the situation from happening again.

If your basement always gets wet during the spring thaw, consider having your yard professionally graded. If your property slopes away from your home instead of towards it, you can utilize gravity to help keep your spaces dry.

Inside your home, you should be checking the seals around your windows and doors regularly and replacing them as needed. In addition, you should consider completely replacing anything that is sagging or not hanging right anymore to ensure your home is air and watertight.

When you start with what you know, good things can happen! Remember, we are always Here to Help® you recover if you wind up with any sort of water damage.

Do you have water damage in your home? Contact us at SERVPRO® for fast recovery.

Dealing With Multiple Kinds of Home Damage, Confidently | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

heavy rain pounding down on a blacktop surface SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is Here to Help® when any disaster strikes!

When the rain comes pouring in or a house fire starts in the middle of the night, it can leave you with serious damage and a lot of questions. It always seems like the most unsuspecting situations are the most frustrating to deal with!

That is especially true when it comes to home damage as you always have to take action right away to stay in control of the situation. Whether Mother Nature caused structural damage to your roof during a tornado or your old dishwasher leaked yet again, dealing with the aftermath quickly is what will help you recover more confidently.

That’s why SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is here to help! With one simple phone call, all of your home damage woes will be taken care of as we get started on your entire recovery.

The Facts of Worsening Damage

The toll that disasters can take on communities can range from minor inconveniences to total emergencies, especially when it comes to serious storms or unexpected natural disasters.

For example, heavy rain can lead to flooding, which can be dangerous if you are out and about or can lead to mold growth in your home. Strong wind can knock out power for days or rip shingles off of your roof. A house fire can cause structural damage in the room that the fire occurred in, but it can also lead to soot and smoke odors all over your home.

The longer the damage sits in your home, the worse the situation can become. This is why a quick call to us will get the ball rolling and you will be able to recover faster and more completely!

Restoring With Confidence

When disaster strikes, we want you to pick up the phone no matter what time it is or what day it happens to be. We are here 247, 365 days a year to respond to your emergency. We will get right to work by gathering a team and supplies and then be on our way to you quickly.

Our highly trained team members have years of experience helping our community overcome disaster. We are all trained on the latest and most advanced restoration techniques and we will tailor our plan to fit your home’s individual needs. We will be with you from start to finish no matter what.

Damaged roofs will be tarped and secured, flooded rooms will have the standing water removed and the walls repaired, and fire-damaged spaces will be cleaned, sanitized and restored with confidence.

We are even confident enough in our skills to tackle entire rebuilds of sections of your home! If a water disaster or fire caused too much damage to be repaired, we can tear down that section of your home and build it back up for you with precision.

One of the best things about working with us is that you are only ever working with us! It can be exhausting dealing with multiple different contractors and agreements, but you are only working with our team for every aspect of your restoration. That can make your recovery process much smoother and much more relaxing for your family.

When the rain pours in or a house fire takes you by surprise, call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties for a faster and more reliable recovery. We can help you find sunnier days in no time at all.

Have you experienced a disaster and need restoration? Make one call to our office to start recovery fast.

Sneaky Places for Water Leaks to Start | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

close up of condensation on window pane and ledge Water damage can happen anywhere in your home. Call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties to restore water damage on your property 24/7, 365.

Water is a necessary part of our lives, and we use it every day in a variety of ways. Water flows into our homes every time we run a load of laundry, wash our hands or clink ice into our glasses. While most of the time the water stays where it should, water leaks can happen at a moment’s notice and wreak havoc all over the place.

We can’t always predict or prevent water leaks, but knowing where they happen the most can help you take action quickly and track down the source of a leak faster. Catching one quickly can help you avoid serious damage and a longer repair process.

Under the Sinks and Taps

Where there’s a sink, there’s a water line. We often don’t think twice when the water flows down the sink and into the drain, but that water has to go somewhere! If a water line is loose or a seal has started to break down, that water can easily leak onto your floor.

If the leak starts under your sink, it will start to seep into the cupboards, get onto your floors and leak behind your walls. Check your water lines often and don’t forget to pay special attention to the water lines coming from your dishwasher! Tighten loose connections and recaulk old seals as you discover potential problems.

Under Your Water-Reliant Appliances

Which appliances do you rely on the most during your daily life? Chances are they are the ones that use water to function. Water heaters, washing machines and dishwashers are essential parts of our households nowadays, but they also have the potential to leak at any time.

Get into the habit of pulling them away from the wall often to check for moisture issues. Water spots, mold or new puddles should quickly be investigated before the problem gets worse. Try to do this every time you deep-clean your home because water leaks tend to get worse the longer they are left unaddressed.

Behind Any Wall

Your water lines run behind your walls, so unfortunately, water leaks can happen behind your drywall without you even noticing! A single drip will probably not be noticed for a while, but sudden gushes of water from a burst water line will quickly become obvious.

If you start to smell something musty or earthy or one of your walls is starting to feel soft, it is time to call in the professionals so we can check it out for you and address any necessary repairs.

Exterior Windows and Doors

As condensation forms on your windows, it can easily leak down your windowpane and settle on your sills. It can also get under your trim and leak behind your walls. Over time, this lingering moisture can lead to structural damage and mold growth.

Moisture can also sneak into your home through any gapping or cracks around your windows and doors. If you have a draft problem or your home is getting older and your windows are starting to sag, you should be checking these spaces often for signs of water damage.

If you do suffer from water damage, call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties for a faster and more reliable restoration. We will quickly remove standing water while handling your repairs with confidence.

Don’t ignore signs of water damage! Call SERVPRO® for a quick restoration.

Taking Control of Your Flooded Business | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

concrete floor tiling with large cracks and water on it Has water damage infiltrated your business? Give SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties a call to get that resolved!

We all have those morning routines we stick to when arriving at work. Unlocking doors, turning on lights, getting the mail…so when the unexpected happens, it can throw us off our routines entirely. This is especially true when you come upon a developing problem or a disaster situation, like a flooded room or water leaking from the ceiling.

If you get to work one day to find your lowest level flooded or your storefront’s carpet soaked through, what do you do first?

Having a plan in place ahead of any potential floods can help you stay in control and respond quicker in an emergency situation. Get to know what to do below so you can overcome this frustrating situation faster.

The First Few Steps

When your business is flooded, it will take precedence over everything else for the time being. Try to stay calm and follow these simple steps to help get things cleaned up right away.

1. Stay safe. Your top priority is always safety when it comes to situations like this. Keep your employees out of the area, and avoid walking through the water. Stay on higher ground as you assess the situation and then get SERVPRO® on the phone right away so we can get started on your recovery plan.

2. Control the disaster. If the water is still actively pouring out of a burst pipe or is still flowing into your space, stopping the flow of water should be your next step. Locate the appropriate water valve and shut it off to stop the water from rushing in. If you can’t locate it quickly, shut off the water for your entire building to be on the safe side.

3. Start the drying process. We will be on our way to you as soon as you call, but you can still start the drying process while you wait for us to arrive. Open some windows and turn on a fan to start circulating air in the area.

Recovering After a Water Disaster

Once we arrive at your building, we will get right to work removing the standing water. We will also complete a total assessment of your building so we can make sure to get all of the water cleaned up and address the damage thoroughly. This is the point where we also make contact with your insurance company!

While we focus on your recovery, we want you to focus on finding ways to keep your business running smoothly. We can oftentimes secure the location of the flood so you can continue to operate in any capacity that you can.

We will make sure that your business is clean, dry and repaired as quickly as possible so you can open back up completely faster. Call us 247 for immediate assistance.

Do you need repairs after a water disaster in your commercial building? Contact us to get dried out quickly.

Your Home Has Water Damage…Now What? | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Pool of water sitting on top of a herringbone patterned wood floor with furniture nearby If you discover water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties right away.

We rely on water to get us through our everyday lives, and most of the time we don’t even think about it! We use water to wash our clothes, rinse off a dish and to make ice to chill our drinks during a hot summer’s day.

While we certainly need water to help us navigate our days, it can also cause chaos in our homes if it leaks where it shouldn’t. Busted water pipes, broken appliances and even flooded basements when Rice Lake overflows can cause widespread damages.

Preparing for disaster situations can help you avoid extensive damage, but some situations are just downright impossible to avoid. Read on as we explain more about water disasters and how we can help.

The First Steps to Drying Out

The key to controlling water damage is to act quickly. The faster you move, the more damage you can prevent. Locate the source of the leak and get to work drying out the area right away.

If the leak is coming from an appliance or house malfunction, turn off the appropriate valve to stop the flow of water. If the leak is caused by Mother Nature or damage to your roof or foundation, you may just have to wait until the storm or threat has passed if the leak can’t be plugged right away.

If you have standing water in your home, do your best to avoid walking through it. Electrical wires or electricity can make these types of situations dangerous or even deadly.

Once you are safe and you understand the situation, give SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties a call. We are here 247, and we will answer your call whenever you need us.

The Drying and Repair Process

The first phone call often involves a lot of questions so we can fully understand your situation. Try to have someone take some pictures of the damage while you are talking with us. Having fresh images of the damage will help us formulate our recovery plan, and it will be easier to discuss your insurance claim with your agent.

Once we are ready to get to work, we will hop in our trucks and head your way. We will work on getting the water out with our air movers and blowers, and our technicians will focus on locating and fixing the leak. We will also ensure that your home is sanitized and odor-free before we are done.

Our team is trained to handle every part of your restoration from beginning to end. No water damage situation is too large or too destructive for us! We can do everything from minor repairs to extensive reconstructions.

Even just an inch of water can cause widespread damages, so calling SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is always the best way to avoid long-term issues and potential mold or mildew.

Do you have water damage in your home? Call us for fast and complete restoration.

Understanding the Risk of Intense Rain | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

image of a large body of water during a rain storm with ripples caused by the heavy downpour Water damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties on the case!

These warm and sunny days can certainly feel like a blessing here in the Rice Lake community after the winter we had. However, we are a little lacking in rain this season and our lawns and gardens are certainly feeling it.

While this is certainly not a typical summer when it comes to strong storms, being prepared for anything is crucial. You never know when these humid temperatures will stir up another big storm that heads our way.

Preparing in advance is always a helpful way to avoid serious damages when the rain starts to fall, but sometimes that is just not possible.

Our SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties team wants you to stay dry and safe when the next storm comes to town, so read on to gain some helpful tips for when the rain comes pouring down.

What Rain Can Do

We all know what a heavy rain can do in our community. In addition to overflowing Rice Lake and the other major water sources nearby, it can also have a huge impact on our local businesses. Rain, hail and wind can all come together to create serious situations.

While we cannot predict the severity of some damage situations, we can do our best to prepare as soon as the watches and warnings are issued. Stay close by your weather radio or be tuned in to local authorities to catch any updates.

Preparing Your Family and Home

Flood watches can be issued at any time, even if it is not actively raining. Flooding conditions can be dangerous with even just a few inches of fast-moving water, so head for home if you are out and about and avoid driving on any roads that flood often during storms. When you are home, tidy up your property and tie down anything you don’t want swept away in the water. Furniture, outdoor equipment and even your car should be stored or secured.

If you know your home often floods when it rains or you are located in a flood zone, removing fragile materials and keepsakes from your lowest levels can help protect your belongings. You should also consider turning off electricity to your basement just in case.

Preventing Water Issues in the Future

Mother Nature likes to throw curveballs, so it is impossible to completely prepare for any weather situation. However, with each weather damage situation, you can learn a little something to prevent it from happening again. For example, if you realize that your basement always floods in one certain spot, a professional property grading can help redirect any flowing water away from your foundation.

Another reliable way to stay dry is to invest in a sump pump in your basement. Sump pumps pull excess water out of the ground to keep it from getting into your home. This can be helpful if your property is located in a low-lying area or near a water source.

If you suffer any sort of water damage this season, just know that our water damage restoration team has your back. We will dry up the excess water, tend to repairs and even sanitize your space to prevent mold from growing. Call us right away!

We are here for all of your water disasters. Contact us day or night for a quick recovery.

Pinpointing Vulnerable Water Damage Spaces | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

 img src =”bucket” alt = " blue bucket in the middle of the living area catching water falling from the ceiling ” > Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Risk Counties to find the source.

Water damage is one home damage situation that can cause chaos without much warning. It can either happen in one major and obvious incident, or it can happen slowly over a long period of time. Both situations can be overwhelming and frustrating to deal with.

The best thing you can do for yourself and for your home is to know where to look for potential water damage. This can help you identify problems in your Rice Lake home before it is too late.

We highlight some of the most common areas for water damage below, so read on to learn more.

The roof. Santa is not the only person that should be on your roof! You should be inspecting your roof often for signs of damage or leaks along your roofline. Even a tiny leak could be problematic over time.

The longer you wait to address potential damage or a gap in your roofline, the more time the water has to infiltrate into other areas of your home.

Once water has entered the rest of your home, it can drip and seep into virtually every aspect of your home’s structure. It can soak walls, floors, ceilings and even the beams along your attic. If this happens, it not only becomes a structural issue, but it can also encourage mold to grow.

Bathroom spaces. This location is probably the most obvious one in your home. Our toilets, showers, bathtubs and sinks constantly are being used on a daily basis, and that makes it one of the most common places to suffer water damage.

If you notice any sort of dripping or leaking happening from a pipe or water line, check it out. It could be the beginnings of an issue or it could have been happening for a while and now you are just noticing it. It is also helpful to reduce the moisture levels in your bathroom.

Try to inspect your plumbing lines often as well. A simple inspection can help alert you to a developing problem, so you very well may stop a water leak before it even begins.

Your home appliances. Most homes have at least one appliance that relies on water to function. Dishwashers, fridges and washing machines all have the ability to leak or malfunction, leaving you with a puddle of water on the floor and a family full of frustration.

It can be particularly hard to notice water leaks when they come from our appliances because most of them are really heavy and we don’t pull them away from the wall often. If you suspect a leak or see water on the floor, it’s time to move them and check behind and around them for water damage.

Lastly, don’t let your appliances become outdated. There’s nothing worse than an unreliable dishwasher or washing machine! By keeping your appliances newer, you are reducing your risk of experiencing a malfunction or water leak every day.

Remember, if you do ever experience water damage, SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is here to help you fully recover.

Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!

Take Charge of the Appliances in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

a blue and white hot water heater showing signs of a water leak Have water damage in your home from an appliance? SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is always on call ready to help.

Whether or not you think about it, you use water in your homes for almost every daily household task! Cleaning, cooking, washing clothes and dishes, and even making your child’s favorite lemonade require water.

Because we rely so heavily on our water systems in our home, there is always the chance of experiencing water damage.

Water damage can occur anywhere in our homes, but it is particularly problematic when it stems from our appliances. An appliance malfunction can lead to a major water issue in a short amount of time.

The good news is that it is possible to reduce your risk of experiencing water damage by ensuring your appliances are in good working order and by keeping a consistent cleaning routine.

Routine Maintenance Tasks

One of the most reliable ways to stop water damage from occurring is to actively look for it. This can be as easy as using your hands and eyes to check for moisture around the appliances that use water.

Leaks are usually obvious if you discover a puddle on the floor, but sometimes they can occur underneath the appliance, making it much harder to notice right away. Try to pull your bigger appliances away from the wall on occasion to check for mold or moisture issues.

Another part of your home that requires a little TLC is your HVAC system! It could be the source of hidden water damage throughout your home. Checking the vents for moisture and for puddles on the floor can help you catch an emerging issue, and consider having it serviced by a professional once a year.

Don’t forget to check around your water heater! If this appliance malfunctions, you may notice it immediately when you go to wash some dishes or hop in the shower, but you also will notice when your basement is covered in water. Treat it the same and check it regularly for leaks.

More Maintenance Tasks

Keeping a close eye on your appliances is a great way to prevent extensive damage, and they should be serviced by a professional according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. In between maintenance checks, there are also things you can do on your own!

Check the hoses leading to and from your fridge, washing machine and dishwasher, and replace anything that looks worn or old. A kink, hole, or even just wear and tear can eventually lead to trouble. Deteriorated parts should always be replaced instead of repaired to ensure the problem doesn’t worsen.

Choose the highest quality parts that are designed for your specific appliance, and consider completely replacing your appliances every 10 to 15 years to ensure you always have the most reliable models in your home.

Don’t underestimate the potential for appliance leaks in your home. Even a small amount of water can cause a lot of damage in the long run! Keep your home safe by staying on top of any emerging problems.

Have water damage in your home from an appliance or another source? Our team is here to help, so call us day or night.

Will Spring Showers Bring More Than Flowers? | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

3/10/2023 (Permalink)

dark stormy clouds forming into a spring storm SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties team is always here for you, if you experience any storm damage call us right away.

Spring is fast-approaching, and we are excited about this change of season. While you dust off your spring and summer clothes and start planning out all of your upcoming activities, it is also important to prepare your home for the increase in rain, storms and any other weather event that could leave you with a large water issue.

In addition to your regular spring-cleaning inside your home, it is crucial that you focus on the outside of your house and around your property, too. We explain some of the key places to clean out and prepare ahead of the rainy spring season.

Clean It Out

Coming out of the winter season, it is important to address any areas of your home that could experience debris buildup in the winter. Wind, rain, snow and ice can all block up your gutters. If you have leaves or other debris blocking your gutters or downspouts, the falling rain will have nowhere to go but back up onto your roof and eventually into your attic!

In addition, now is an important time to walk around to make sure your property’s vents are free of blockages or clogs. Over the winter season, they can become compromised, which can be dangerous to your health as well as to your appliances. These include your furnace, dryer and even the vents in your attic.

While you are outside, take a peek at your outdoor faucets and inspect them for any leaks or cracks. This is especially important for us due to our long stretch of subzero temperatures. Frozen pipes can be a huge problem when the spring thaw comes around if they burst and leak water everywhere.

Fix Issues Fast

We usually spend the majority of our time indoors during the winter season. Because of this, it can be easier to overlook or not notice an emerging problem happening on your roof or around your home until spring arrives and it is too late!

As soon as you can, it is important that you get on your roof to check for missing shingles, gaps between your gutters and roof and any other visible damage. Ice dams and heavy snow can cause all manner of damage to your roof, which can cause water damage. Avoid the literal trickle-down effect by inspecting your roof as soon as you are able.

Even minor drips or a suspicious-looking shingle can be the cause of a huge water leak when the first spring storm comes rolling through. The faster you address any issues that you discover, the greater chance you have of avoiding a disaster.

Get Ready for the Water

If you have a sump pump, giving it a thorough inspection ahead of the rainy season is crucial. A sump pump works by pumping water away from your home’s foundation and basement, so it can give you a great peace of mind when the rain starts falling outside. A clogged or malfunctioning sump pump can lead to a flooded basement and extensive water damage really quickly.

It is also important for you to restock your emergency kit, review your storm safety plan with your family and double-check your methods for receiving weather alerts. Spring weather can become severe quickly, so make sure everyone in your home knows where the safe shelter location is in your home and has a reliable way of communicating with everyone in an emergency situation.

We are no strangers to water damage, so we understand that sometimes it can surprise you even if you do everything right! That is why our SERVPRO team is here for you day and night. We can help save your possessions and dry out your home quickly to prevent further damage and lasting structural issues.

Got water damage? We are here to help 247 and can restore your home quickly.

Be Proactive Against Water Damage for Your Commercial Property | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

2/28/2023 (Permalink)

corner of interior wall showing signs of black mold from water damage Experienced water damage in your commercial building? SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties can help you get dried out quickly.

We know all about water here in northern Wisconsin! All the lakes, rivers, snow, ice and rain make us experts where water is concerned. One place that you certainly don’t want water, though, is in your business or commercial property.

Water has the potential to cause widespread damage and costly repairs, leaving you with a huge bill and lots of questions about the future. Stopping water damage before it even starts can be easy! It just takes some preventive steps and attention to detail for your place of business to stay dry.

Areas Prone to Water Damage

Minimizing any unnecessary downtime is important for any business owner, but especially if you own a small business or are responsible for any employees.

Prioritize checking these locations around your building or storefront frequently. This helps you identify any areas that have the potential to become problematic or you can catch a water issue at the source:

1. The roof. We rely on our roofs every day to keep us warm and dry! The moment your roof becomes compromised, your business is vulnerable to damage. Water can get in under broken or missing shingles, or a singular event like a falling tree can invite a lot of water into your space all at once. It is important to routinely check your roof for damage, but especially after a storm that brings heavy wind, rain or snow.

2. Bathrooms. Bathrooms are a common place where water damage occurs since the fixtures in these spaces have water running through them daily. Have someone on your maintenance team inspect the water lines to your toilets and sinks every month, and make sure you keep up on any deteriorating caulk lines to avoid a leak.

3. Water heaters/HVAC/boilers. Our utility rooms are another common space that experiences water issues! Any appliances that utilize water are vulnerable to malfunctions that can lead to widespread water damage. It is important to investigate any issues like a drop in water pressure or visible puddles right away.

Stopping Water Damage Before it Occurs

Aside from the unpredictability of Mother Nature, most water damage can be prevented as long as you act quickly. By stepping in and addressing the situation right away, you can minimize your losses as much as possible.

Creating a maintenance plan is one of the best ways to stay on top of any emerging issues. By prioritizing routine maintenance and inspections, you can avoid malfunctions or issues from the start.

In addition, having an Emergency Ready Plan for the unexpected disasters can help you navigate through any scenario. Our SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties can help you do this! We can meet with you to create a plan tailored to your business and your employees so that you can be ready for anything.

Timing is of the essence when it comes to water disasters. The faster you can respond, the easier it will be for you to recover! Just call us the moment you discover the damage, and our water damage restoration team will be there for you.

Experienced water damage in your commercial building? Contact us to get dried out quickly.

Stop Water Damage in Its Tracks This Year | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

water failing from a sink due to a clogged drain Have water damage in your home? Contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties for quick and professional restoration.

The start of a new year always feels so refreshing. In addition to dusting off your new resolutions, it’s also a great time to address any water damage threats to keep your home dry. Below we explain how to easily incorporate these ideas into your regular routine to avoid costly damages.

Since water is all around us, it is one of the most common causes of home damage. It doesn’t even take a full disaster to cause widespread damage!

Where Does Water Damage Start?

Water leaks can happen virtually anywhere around our homes. Inside, our large appliances and bathrooms are common sources of water troubles while clogged gutters, rain water and melting snow are the main culprits outside of our homes.

If you live in an older home, watch out for any worn-out pipes or caulk lines that look like they are cracking. Moisture can leak through and cause water damage, mold growth and rotten wood over time.

The electronic components of your appliances could also be affected by water damage! If water gets into these areas, you could suffer from an appliance malfunction or damaging rust issues.

Prevent Damage From Occurring

A little preparation can help prevent a large issue from forming! Catching any developing problem early can save you precious time and money.

You may have to go on a hunt, though, to find the source of the trouble. Check your bathrooms and kitchens often and try to dry out these spaces often to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth. If you notice a musty odor, follow the scent to catch any moldy or mildewy areas.

Getting up on your roof regularly (and after any major wind events) can help you catch any missing shingles or overlooked roof damage. If your roof has structural damage, it could invite water down into your attic and eventually down the walls of your home.

We know how heavy snow can get, so it is important to keep it off of your home to prevent damage or even a cave-in! Invest in a roof rake and pull the snow off of your roof after every storm and address any ice dam issues quickly.

While this step will have to wait until the ground thaws, grading your property can help encourage water to flow down and away from your foundation. Any of these steps can help your home stay dry all year long!

Have water damage in your home? Contact us for fast, professional restoration back to preloss condition.

The Constant Threat of Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

12/9/2022 (Permalink)

a white ceiling showing signs of water damage from a leak If you experience any water damage inside your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties.

No matter what season we are in, the threat of water damage is always around us. Water damage can occur because of Mother Nature, but it also can occur because of an issue within your home.

Spotting a water leak in your home can help you address a problem before it becomes a big issue. Read on to gain some tips on how to stop water leaks in their tracks!

<h3and-water-issues">Bathrooms and Water Issues

Our bathrooms are perhaps the most water-reliant spaces in our homes. Sinks, bathtubs, toilets and showers constantly have water running through them, which means that water damage could happen at any time!

The next time you are cleaning in your bathroom, take the extra time to inspect the water lines and seals around each of your fixtures. Any signs of wearing or deterioration should be addressed immediately to prevent a large leak.

<h3appliances-in-your-home">The Appliances in Your Home

Water heaters, dishwashers and washing machines are all wonderful inventions and can make our daily life much easier. This much is true until you come home one day to standing water in your kitchen or laundry room!

Appliances are a common reason for water damage, so it is important to routinely clean them and pull them away from the wall to check for damage or water spots. If you notice any staining or mold on your walls behind your appliances, pick up the phone and call us right away.

<h3nature-s-water-threats">Mother Nature’s Water Threats

We all know how varied the weather can be in Wisconsin. We can experience anything from heavy rain during thunderstorms to road-closing blizzards. In each instance, water damage is possible.

While we certainly can have humor when faced with the threat of water damage, it can be catastrophic if the water from a storm makes its way into our basements and foundations.

Work on weatherproofing your home this season to help protect yourself from excess moisture in your home. Seal up any gaps in your windows and doors, keep your gutters clear and your roof free of debris.

It is also a good idea to invest in proper landscaping techniques to keep your yard angled away from your home. If your yard slopes down into your foundation, any water that pools near your foundation can flow backwards into your basement.

If you experience water damage inside your home or business, call us247. We have the experience and equipment to get your property back in working order fast.

Water Damage and Its Progression in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

a bathroom sink showing signs of a water leak SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is your 24/7 water restoration expert. Call us right away if you need immediate service.

A slow drip, a leaky faucet or a small water spot may seem unimportant or be overlooked in your home, but do not underestimate the damage long-term moisture can have on your home. An average household leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water in a year.

Water damage can move quickly, seeping into walls, floorboards and softer surfaces like carpet or permeating under vinyl. It is so important to address the issue as soon as you can to give your home the best chance of drying out properly.

Here’s what you need to know about the timeline of water damage:

In the First 24 Hours

If you live in a house, there is a one in four chance of a flood damaging your home within a 30-year period in a high-risk area. Especially with the change in seasons and the snow melt in Wisconsin, unexpected water in your home can lead to a mess if not properly cared for.

The first 24 to 48 hours after flooding or water damage set the tone for the following days and weeks to come. Unfortunately, even the quickest of responses will cause certain items to immediately fall victim to water’s disastrous effects.

Books, photographs, and other soft or fragile materials are especially vulnerable to immediate and irreparable damage. They can warp, swell or just simply be ruined by the water.

SERVPRO’s expertise and “restore vs. replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving those precious memories and keepsakes in your home. We do our very best, but if any materials cannot be successfully restored, this will be communicated to you. That being said, these types of things are usually removed first to expedite their drying process.

Within the First Week

After the first 24 hours, water damage will progress further and quickly. Mold can spread like wildfire if left untreated. As mold sets in, it can even damage the home’s internal structure.

Additionally, porous surfaces such as wood surfaces and walls will become increasingly compromised, and metal surfaces will start corroding.

After One Week

Avoid letting excess moisture sit for an extended period of time to help prevent irreversible damage. As time goes on, it gets more expensive and requires more extensive effort to restore the structures in your home. Don’t take the risk with increased structural damage!

How SERVPRO Will Help

SERVPRO’s restoration process begins with the first call, with our goal to be responsive within 24 hours. We start with a thorough extraction of water and then move on to cleaning, sanitizing and deodorizing your floors and furniture.

After the bulk of the water has been removed, our specialists will use industry-leading drying equipment to remove the water you can’t see to prevent lingering, unnoticed moisture.

After these first few steps, your home may need additional construction work to get your space back to its preloss condition. That includes minor repairs or massive rebuilds of rooms in your home, depending on the severity of damage.

We can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties will keep you up to date on every step and have you back in your home or business in no time.

Regardless of the type of water damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover. Contact us 247 when you need a dependable team to help you recover.

The 3 Main Types of Flooding & the 4 Things That Often Cause Them | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

a street completely submerged in water and a flood warning sign in roadway Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.

When most people think natural disasters, they think about hurricanes, tornadoes and lightning. However, floods are actually the most common type of natural disaster, and the deadliest as well. Floods can impact a large amount of area in a small amount of time, and leave a serious amount of destruction in their wake.

There are three main types of flooding, with four main causes, and these can occur nearly anywhere. Today, we will be taking a look at the types of floods and what makes them occur.

3 Types of Flooding

Flash floods, as the name indicates, can come about rather quickly. When a storm front brings about seriously heavy rain, whether over a prolonged period or all at once, it can overwhelm an area’s ability to drain off water effectively, leading to overflow that can run swiftly enough to carry away people and objects.

River floods happen when a river becomes too full of water, typically due to rainfall or melting snow and ice. Any time water overwhelms a riverbank, a river flood can occur.

Coastal floods are just like river floods, but occur exclusively in coastal areas. Oceans and bays can rise in volume due to storm surges or cyclones, leading to an overflow that causes flooding within the coastal area.

The 4 Frequent Causes of Natural Flooding

Heavy rainfall. If a storm has a significant amount of rain, or if the storm cell stops over an area, floods become likely. This is especially true in urban areas, as a high volume of concrete and asphalt can inhibit an area’s ability to absorb significant amounts of water.

Oceanic activity. A storm surge, hurricane or a swiftly rising tide can cause water levels to rise tremendously, which will then cause a coastal flood.

Dams and levees failing. Because of the memorable destruction of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, many people are very familiar with how terrible a breaking levee can be. Dams and levees often fail due to a high volume of water overwhelming the structure, leading to a massive flood.

Snowmelts and ice dams. When there is snow and ice that accumulates through the winter season, the first bout of warm weather can lead to quite a lot of melting—and this can cause a high volume of water to overwhelm an area. This is often made worse by ice dams or ice jams in areas with rivers, which cause a blockage in the current that can lead to flooding.

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when flooding or water damage makes a mess in your life.

What to Do Until Help Arrives

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage in your home from clean water, the first thing to do is call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties! After that, this is what we suggest doing until we arrive (it won’t be long, we promise!).

  • Shut off the source of the water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
  • Remove as much excess eater as possible by mopping and 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 to safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
  • Use wooden clothes pins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
  • Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
  • Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately.

Sewage Backups

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Do you have sewage backing up or toilet overflowing? Call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties now at 715-643-7171!

Sewage backups can be very hazardous to your health due to the bacteria and viruses that live within it. These types of situations should only be handled with the proper training and equipment, especially if it is a Category 2 or Category 3 water loss.

The three types of contaminated water are:

                Category 1: “Clean Water”

This type of water would be water from a clean source, like a broken water supply line or leaky faucet. These types of water losses have the potential to turn into category 2 or category 3 if they are left untreated and/or come in contact with contaminants.

Category 2: “Gray Water”

This type of water could be from a washing machine, toilet overflow with urine but no feces or a dishwasher overflow. It has a significant level of contamination that will most likely cause discomfort or illness if ingested. This type of water can quite easily become category 3 if it’s not taken care of quickly.

                Category 3: “Black Water”

This water is highly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested. Any contact should be avoided.  Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

Sewage backups should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. Call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties as soon as you notice an issue at 715-643-7171 no matter what time it is. We are available 24/7/365 to assist with your needs!

The Mold Remediation Process

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Each and every mold infestation is different. Mold can affect different types of materials and can spread at different rates. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties’ general process for each mold situation stays the same but each will require a unique solution.

These are the steps for a typical mold remediation infestation:

  1. Call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties at 715-643-7171 as soon as you notice a problem!
  2. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties will come to your home to inspect and do a Mold Damage Assessment.
  3. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties will contain the mold so it can no longer continue to spread.
  4. Next, SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties will begin an air filtration system to clean the spores out of the air.
  5. Then, SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties will proceed to remove the mold and mold-infested materials.
  6. The next step is to cleaning your contents and belongings to make sure that they are also mold free.
  7. Lastly, is the restoration process. SERPVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties strive to make your mold problem “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO's Water Damage Restoration Process

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage in your home, you’ll want to make sure that you contact the right company to properly dry and restore your property. This is where SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties comes in. We have the expertise, experience and proper equipment to take care of your home! We follow a scientifically proven approach to drying and restoring your home.

                Step 1 – Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask several questions to help us understand your situation and determine what type of equipment and resources we will need for your water loss.

                Step 2 – Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

A highly trained SERVPRO professional will come assess your loss and determine the scope of your water damage. They will perform a detailed inspection and a series of tests to determine the extent of the damage. They will also assess how far the moisture has travelled to ensure complete drying and restoration.

                Step 3 – Water Extraction

The water extraction process begins almost immediately to minimize the damage done and lessen the chance of mold growth. Our crew will use powerful pumps and vacuum units to remove a majority of the water.

                Step 4 – Drying and Dehumidification

In this step, our professionals will use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. To ensure that the proper amount and type of air movers and dehumidifiers are used, they will calculate in the room measurements, temperature and relative humidity of each room that requires drying.

                Step 5 – Cleaning and Sanitizing

Any restorable items and structures damaged by the water will be cleaned in this step. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and remove odors and deodorize your property also.

                Step 6 – Restoration

Here, our goal is to make it “Like it never even happened.” This may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms.

If you have water or flood damage, give us a call at 715-643-7171!

What to Expect if You Call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you experience a water loss, you’re likely to be stressed and upset and we understand that! We’re here to help reduce your stress and guide you through the mitigation and restoration process as smoothly as possible. Our technicians are highly trained to deal water damage. They have the experience to help you through this tough time and make it “Like it never even happened.”

When you call, we will ask several questions about your water damage. The questions will include but are not limited to:
• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water- damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available on-site?

These questions will help determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many SERVPRO professionals may be needed.

If you experience a water damage, SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is available 24/7 and always ready to help! 715-643-7171

Sprinkler Systems

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

We all love a lawn that looks amazing! Sometimes we just do not get enough rain and our lawns start looking a little brown. There are under ground sprinkler systems that can do the work for us. But they can also cause havoc on our homes if not installed properly or not taken care of.

  • Overspray: When sprinklers overshoot their intended watering targets and spray on or near building walls, water can seep into the foundation and possibly into your basement.
  • Improper installation: Your sprinkler system delivers water to different zones via a series of underground rubber tubes or hoses that connect to the home’s water line. But if these hoses run too close to the foundation and there happens to be a leak in them, homeowners may unknowingly find themselves with water inside their property.
  • Broken pipes: As we noted above, sprinkler systems tap into the home’s water line. Usually, part of the system is installed within the home to accomplish this. However, if the sprinkler pipes inside the home become frozen or damaged, it will become a problem inside the home.
  • User error: Installing a rain sensor with your system will analyze rainfall to determine whether your lawn needs watering. This can help prevent excessive water buildup around the property. Also, it’s recommended to have your system professionally started up every spring and winterized every fall to ensure correct operation.

Check your hot water heaters

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Your hot water heater is one of those appliances that may have remained unseen or forgotten about. However, it is important to make sure to keep up regular maintenance for many reasons.  Homeowners can wake up in the middle of the night or even come home to water all over their home.  Depending on the size, it can possibly leave up to 50+ gallons of water.   Below are a few signs that it may be time to change out the hot water heater in your home.

  • Typically, a gas hot water heater can last about 8 to 12 years, while an electric model will last slightly longer from about 10 to 15 years. If your water heater is getting up in years, it may be time to replace it before it breaks
  • If a puddle surrounds the base of the hot water heater, it is important to act immediately
  • If there is no hot water while using the tap, this may be an indicator it is time to get the hot water heater checked
  • Signs of tinted water coming from your hot water tap means there may be rust in the hot water heater, which may show possible aging and a signal of an oncoming leak
  • Gurgling or popping noises coming from your water heater are caused by the buildup of hard water sediment heating up and exploding inside your water heater tank

Do's and Don'ts

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

Any kind of water lose is never fun! SERVPRO is always here to help and here are a few do’s and don’ts when damage does happen.

Do’s

  • If the outside temperature is above 65 degrees, use dehumidifiers if available.
  • Use fans to circulate the air and assist in drying.
  • Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
  • Wipe furniture dry.
  • Lift draperies off carpet, loop through a coat hanger, and place the hanger on the drapery rod.
  • Prop up wet furniture cushions for even drying and place small wood blocks or aluminum foil under furniture legs.
  • Remove wet area rugs or other floor coverings.
  • Open furniture drawers, closet doors, and luggage to enhance drying.
  • Move guns, photos, paintings, and art objects to a safe, dry location.
  • Remove wet fabrics and dry them as soon as possible. Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
  • Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry.
  • If damage occurs during a cool season, leave heat on; if in summer, use an air conditioner if available.

Don’ts

  • Do not use an ordinary household vacuum to remove water.
  • Do not use electrical appliances while on wet carpet or wet floors.
  • Do not go into rooms with standing water if the electricity is still on.
  • Do not lift tacked down carpet without help from a professional carpet cleaning service. Lifting the carpet incorrectly could promote shrinkage and create damage.
  • Do not wait before calling SERVPRO and beginning the water damage restoration process. Water damage, as well as and bacteria and mold growth can begin within hours.

Mold Restoration

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

For the most part everyone has either seen or heard of mold. Mold can wreak havoc on your health and home. Mold can start developing in as little as 24 hours. Musty odor, discoloration, water damage, and allergic symptoms are all signs mold growth. To get rid of mold it takes more that just soap and water. Some steps include:

  • Finding and stopping the source of the moisture that has allowed mold to grow
  • Sealing off mold-infested area to prevent further contamination
  • Taking our or cleaning mold-infested baseboards, sheetrock, carpeting, and wood
  • Apply anti-microbial treatments to prevent further growth
  • Installing preventive measures such as humidity controls and proper ventilation

SERVPRO is always willing to help and give out and ideas we can. We are available 24/7 and 365 days a week so help wherever we can.

Snow and a leaking roof

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

While most of us thing the snow is beautiful to look at through a window, the below freezing temps and heavy snow can be devastating to your home or business. We at SERVPRO have some suggestions of what to do and not to do for your home or business this winter.

  • Preventing a roof collapse

Get yourself a roof rake, it can save your roof from ending up inside your home or business. Most roofs can handle about 20 pounds of snow per square foot before becoming weak. You want to do what you safely can to keep your roof as clean as possible, that is where a roof rake comes in handy. You can reach most of your roof safely from the ground or not to far off the ground.

  • Check your gutters

Clean any debris out such as twigs and leaves. The gutter and down spout clear at all times for any melting snow to be able to run away from the building. If they are blocked in any way, it can cause a devastating ice damn.

  • Insulate your attic or roof line

Ice damns happen when heat escapes from your roof, melting the snow and freezes around the water. Leaking roof can damage walls and ceilings which than in turn can cause a mold issue. So, make sure your roof is in good working order and you have plenty of insulation in the attic. Do not keep the attic anymore than 5 to 10 degrees warmer than your home.

If you have any questions regarding roof damage or ice damns feel free to give us a call 24/7

715-643-7171

A burst pipe is no good pipe

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

With this cold weather come freezing water and pipes. With very little to no snow cover to insulate or protect your pipes, they are exposed to the freezing winds and ground. There are many precautions everyone can take to prevent a pipe bursting and may save you hundreds to thousands of dollars.

  • Heat tape. You can go to your local hardware store to purchase. It will keep your pipes at the temperature to prevent them from freezing.
  • Stacking straw or hay bales around the foundation of your home can help keep the wind and snow out with helping to keep the little bit of warmth in.
  • Leaving water trickling. Leave your faucets on just a little bit can save so much. Keeping water flowing can save it from freezing. It also releases any pressure that may build up from freezing and expanding

Any questions please feel free to give us a call (715)643-7171

Experiencing a water loss or flood in the Dunn County area?

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

With much rain these days in the midst of spring around the area at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties water could be on the rise and if a flood does occur in your area, home, or business we want you to be safe!

There are potential hazards when waters rise due to a water loss or flood, here are a few to remember.

The ceiling depending on where the water is coming from could be a hazard as far as falling in.

There could be electrical shock hazards if the electricity isn't turned off immediately.  Never wade in water if the professionals haven't been there to ensure all electricity is off.  With that being said we can never see hidden hazards in the water. 

Last but certainly not least depending on your water loss, these waters could be contaminated.  Having a professional such as SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties come and test these waters so your damage can be cleaned, dried, and treated properly is important.

When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties professionals respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. They closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

Give us a call at 715-643-7171 for all your water damage needs.

Common Causes of water damage

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Our fast response time and advanced drying methods allow us to respond quickly to your residential or commercial water removal and cleanup need to help prevent secondary damage and mold. 

Here are some common causes of water damage are:

-Flooding caused by severe weather such as rain or even extreme temperature changes causing pipes to burst and flood your home.

-Plumbing leaks

-Sink, bathtub or toilet overflow

-Sewage backup

If your home or business falls to a water damage make sure to give us a call immediately so we can properly mitigate, and dry the area so mold doesn't start to grow.  If it is too far damaged with mold we can also help as we have mold specialist that can help detect.  Give us a call at 715-643-7171.

Water Damage in Barron County

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in Business and SERVPRO equipment set for mitigation Barron County business had a water damage due to over flowing toilet.

We can never plan for a disaster like this business pictured here in Barron County, that's why it's called a disaster.  But we can be prepared for the aftermath, and have a plan if one arises.  At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties we offer something called an ERP, which stands for Emergency Ready Profile. What this does is gives you a easy ready to use app to show you all your emergency shutoffs, creates a disaster plan and gives you peace of mind of knowing you can move forward with a company that will get your job done correctly.  Our Marketing Representative Breanna can help you get this set up for you at your place of business.

This business unfortunately had a toilet runover for an entire weekend and didn't realize it went into their entire office until Monday morning.  Fortunately we were able to help them out and be there in a timely matter to get this resolved.  We have the proper equipment and our crew has the proper training as well to clean up this disaster.

If you are interested in setting up a ERP or have fallen to a disaster such as water damage you will not be disappointed you called SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties at 715-643-7171.

How frozen pipes break in Chetek

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

frozen pipe bursting If this happens in your home give SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties a call!

The Northern Wisconsin area can be a beautiful landscape this time of year.  But also comes with that frigid temperatures.  This morning on December 18th, 2019 it was a whopping -18.  Yes, you read that correctly I said 18 below 0 Fahrenheit!  I also believe it was colder but that was when I decided to wonder out to work at 8am!  This is a high risk time for frozen pipes. A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage.  A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.  SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties is faster to any size disaster, bringing the latest equipment and training to help your water damage.  We have 24/7 Emergency Technicians on-call if your water damage happens to be after hours or on a weekend.  We will be here for you! Give us a call at 715-643-7171.

Water in Basement in Rice Lake

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

water drenched carpet in a basement This basement luckily only sustained water soaked carpets which were dry in a few days with minimal damage!

Our number one call as a restoration company is "we have water in our basement!"  As a leader in the restoration business we make sure our technicians are all properly trained and certified in water removal and mitigation.  This includes everything from testing the water type to determine if removing soiled or water loss items is necessary or if we are able to save these items for you and bring them back to there preloss condition.  In some cases the carpet might be slightly saturated where we are able to put air movers and dehumidifiers in that will remove this quickly, but other cases which we test for may be ore complex resulting in carpet and pad removal or dry wall removal depending on the damage.  Regardless of your water level we have you covered.  Our trained technicians are on-call24/7 for all your emergency restoration needs.  Give us a call at 715-634-0699.

Water and Business Interuption

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Business Interruption? What is this? Could this happen to you? Let’s think about that, if you need fast service we are here for you. We understand that a day loss of income is hard, but weeks or months could be devastating. Did you know that 50% of businesses don’t come back after a disaster? In a water loss, we will come in and determine the different categories of water loss. This will determine our plan of action as well as yours and your employees.

Category 1- Drinking water

Category 2- Gray Water (washing machine)

Category 3- Sewer (all sporous materials must be removed.

As the first two may sound harmless these levels can deteriorate quick if not taken care of properly and fast. This is where SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties can help. Give us a call at 715-643-7171.

What do restoration companies do?

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

Restoration Companies are usually the first responders following significant damage to a home from floods and fires, water damage, sewage backup and other major events. The job of SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties is to clean up the mess and to preserve and protect the home and its contents so that further damage will not occur.

From a catastrophic flooding event to a persistent plumbing leak, any water intrusion could lead to mold growth. Even high humidity that causes condensation on cold surfaces could be enough to trigger growth.

It only takes 24 to 48 hours from the time water is introduced for mold to start growing. Therefore, if you just ran across flood water or a plumbing leak with no indication of how long it’s been there, you may want to hire a mold remediation company to test for mold.  Luckily SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties has trained and certified technicians to do this for your home or business. Give us a call at 715-643-7171 for all your restoration needs.

We our consistent with each job in Rusk County

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties we maintain consistency on each job and have a system in place know as the Job File Process.  This insures each job is done accurately and shows the details of each loss. 

These are a few of the steps that we do to insure our customer of a job well done:

-we document the First Notice of Loss(FNOL) the shows the preparation that goes into each job including the proper technicians and equipment.

-we have the customer sign the authorization to perform this is signed by the customer to tell us it's "ok" to go along with services.

-we then provide an information from that answers frequently asked questions.

-in an emergency a report of Water Damage Emergency Services Report will say what we did to mitigate the loss.

-a report will list the usage of equipment and the progress of the drying process so that we comply with the IICRC standards.

-the last file process would be a Certificate of Satisfaction.  This is filled out by the customer to provide that they were satisfied with the work performed.

As you can see we take your water damage seriously to prevent further damage to your home.  If you want to be satisfied with your water restoration give us a call at 715-643-7171.

Keep that Water Running in Chetek

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

With the super cold frigid temps in your Chetek, WI home keep those water faucets flowing.  To ensure your pipes aren't freezing up keep a steady flow of water running on your lowest level of your home or business to prevent from a freeze up.  Also check your water temp frequently if your cold water falls below 38 degrees you may be in need of a plumber.  If no water is flowing call a plumber if a pipe bursts shut off the water at the main shut off valve.  If your disaster becomes to large give SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties a call at 715-643-7171.  Our priority during this Artic weather is your safety first.  Our trained professionals will be there to assist you from the beginning to the end of your water loss. 

Frozen Pipes

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

A Frozen Pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties Professional Crew is faster to any size disaster, bringing the latest equipment and training to help make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Give us a call at 715-643-7171 for emergency services 24 hours a day, 7days a week, even on holidays. In an emergency situation we will be there for you faster and will help the situation from growing into a large problem with our professional crew.

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties are available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 715-643-7171

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn and Rusk Counties has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

Meet our Crew

Menomonie Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

10/2/2018 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently 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 Menomonie basement could flood, including: 

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to 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

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 715-643-7171

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. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
  • We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
  • Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
  • Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 715-643-7171

Flooded Home in Barron, Dunn, or Rusk Counties?

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

As the snow and ice has quickly melted, you may be standing in a flooded area. Here are a few tips from American Red Cross that can help you cleanup up after a flood. If the job is just too large, give the professional team at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties a call at715-643-7171.  

Tips:

  • Wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots, and be cautious when cleaning up.
  • Learn more about how to clean up after a flood, including the supplies you’ll need, how to sanitize food contact surfaces, and how to repair water damage.
  • Be careful when moving furnishings or debris, because they may be waterlogged and heavier.
  • Throw out items that absorb water and cannot be cleaned or disinfected. This includes mattresses, carpeting, cosmetics, stuffed animals and baby toys.
  • Throw out all food, beverages and medicine exposed to flood waters and mud. When in doubt, throw it out. This includes canned goods, plastic utensils, baby bottle nipples and containers with food or liquid that has been sealed shut.
  • Pump out flooded basements gradually (about one-third of the water per day) to avoid structural damage. If the water is pumped out completely in a short period of time, pressure from water-saturated soil on the outside could cause basement walls to collapse.
  • Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are health hazards.

Rice Lake Area Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

2/1/2018 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently 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 Rice Lake basement could flood, including: 

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
  • Frozen Broken Pipes
  • And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 715-643-7171

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. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
  • We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
  • Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
  • Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 715-643-7171

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties is ready to help!

1/25/2018 (Permalink)

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 
715-643-7171

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Frozen Pipes

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

A Frozen Pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties Professional Crew is faster to any size disaster, bringing the latest equipment and training to help make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Give us a call at 715-643-7171 for emergency services 24 hours a day, 7days a week, even on holidays. In an emergency situation we will be there for you faster and will help the situation from growing into a large problem with our professional crew.

Faster to your Rice Lake Water Damage Event

12/6/2017 (Permalink)

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties arrive quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 715-643-7171

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.

About SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

Meet Our Crew

Menomonie 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

11/22/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties are available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 715-643-7171

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn and Rusk Counties has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

Meet Our Crew

Barron, Dunn and Rusk County Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently 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 Barron, Dunn, and Rusk County basement could flood, including: 

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to 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

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 715-643-7171

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. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
  • We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
  • Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
  • Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 715-643-7171

We Answer the Phone - Ready to Help

10/3/2016 (Permalink)

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 
715-643-7171

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

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