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

9/3/2024 (Permalink)

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.

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

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

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!

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.

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

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

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.

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

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

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.

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

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

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.

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

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

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.

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

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

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.

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

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

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)

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.

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

3/10/2023 (Permalink)

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.

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

2/28/2023 (Permalink)

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.

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

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

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!

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

12/9/2022 (Permalink)

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 us, ²⁴⁄₇. 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)

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:

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

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)?