Recent Storm Damage Posts

Call a Pro When Storm Damage Hits Your Spokane Home

3/27/2023 (Permalink)

Even the strongest, best-built Spokane home can suffer significant damage after a storm. If you have damage, it is best to hire storm damage restoration professionals to provide support and cleanup guidance. Hiring a trained and certified team can help ensure the work is done properly so you can return to your home with confidence. What can a storm damage professional do for you?

Determine Where the Problems Are

Sometimes the damage from a storm is easy to spot. This may include larger holes in the roof or a flooded basement. In other cases, you may not see the damage initially. You may have foundation issues, problems with the siding, or damage to the drywall in your living room. Storm damage professional technicians are trained in how to spot concerns fast.

The Right Type of Drying

Storm damage often leaves a wet mess to clean up. Fast, reliable drying is a key component to protecting your home and minimizing mold risk. Technicians at SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane use scientific drying techniques and specialized equipment to ensure proper care and monitoring for mold growth or other risks. They also provide the necessary monitoring and documentation you need to know your home is safe.

Finding the Right Help Matters – Call Us First

At SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane, our team understands what you are up against when it comes to storm damage cleanup. That is why our IICRC certified restoration professionals are available to you anytime day or night. To get help, call us 24 hours a day for immediate support. Just call 509-474-9144 and we'll be there.

Storm Damage Can Happen Often in Spokane

11/23/2022 (Permalink)

Storms happen many times without much warning, causing severe destruction of buildings and personal property. As a property owner, you must deal with wind damage, flood damage, hail damage, and ice damage caused by storms. All these situations regularly result in expensive water damage cleanup and repairs.

Water damage, especially from a storm, can be destructive. It can cause street flooding, river flooding, and a rise in groundwater levels. Floodwater can cause severe property damage if it is not cleaned and remediated fast enough. Under these circumstances, you most likely will need professional restoration services for storm remediation.

Storm damage can also involve destruction from strong winds, hailstorms, or even a snowstorm. If you are looking for storm restoration services, it is crucial to look for a professional company with a reputation for providing comprehensive home restoration services, repairs, and advice on storm remediation.

How Do You Stay Safe During a Storm?

Before a storm, there are things you can do to prepare to stay safe:

  • Before heading outdoors, be sure and check the weather report.
  • Postpone activities outdoors if storms are approaching.
  • Make sure your electronic devices such as cellphones and tablets are fully charged so that you can get weather reports if the power goes out.
  • Keep an AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio handy if you cannot use your electronic devices.
  • Check on other family members and neighbors who may need special assistance during and after the storm, i.e., those with infants, the elderly, and those with disabilities.
  • Stock up on non-perishable food and water. In a refrigerator without power, food will only last two days at the most and then need to be thrown away to prevent foodborne illness.
  • Spare batteries and flashlights should be kept on hand and in a place that is easy to find. Depending on the season, keep extra blankets for when it's cold, and handheld fans for when it's hot.
  • A generator can also be helpful during a long-term power outage offering enough electricity to power a refrigerator, cellphones, small appliances, and computers, depending on the model.
  • Be sure to secure outdoor items like trash bins and patio furniture that could blow away with strong winds.
  • Remove items like hanging plants that could blow into windows or sliding glass doors.
  • Ensure that propane and other fuel tanks are properly secured.
  • Remove any dead or rotting trees and limbs that could fall and cause damage.

What Should You Do During a Storm?

  • If you hear thunder head for cover.  You are close enough to be struck by lightning. Find a safe shelter immediately.
  • Move to a sturdy building or car. Do not take shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees, or in convertible automobiles.
  • If lightning occurs and sturdy shelter is unavailable, get inside a hard-top automobile and keep the windows up.
  • Unplug appliances that are not necessary for obtaining weather information.
  • Avoid using landline telephones or electrical appliances as telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity.
  • Get to higher ground if flooding is possible. DO NOT attempt to drive to safety. Most flash flooding deaths occur in automobiles.

How to Check Your Home for Storm Damage

Thoroughly Assess the Damage
Roof damage is the most likely result of a storm. Evaluate your roof for damage and roof leaks. If there was flooding, assess the floodwater level in your home, water damage on your walls.  Winter storms can cause frozen pipes and ice dams to form.

Common features of roof damage to check on are:

  • Broken or cracked tiles or slate
  • Roof leaks
  • Dents on gutters and vents
  • Split seams
  • Ice dams
  • Penetrations due to trees and other flying debris

Doors and windows are generally susceptible to wind damage also. Inspect cracks, holes, glass shards, damaged door and window frames. A professional damage restoration service provider can help you assess and estimate the restoration costs.

The Process of Storm Damage Restoration

After an assessment of the damage, a suitable restoration plan is needed. Damage caused by a storm can run deep and may not be easy to assess right away. However, a professional company can use specialized devices to probe and find out the affected areas. The first step of storm restoration is to clear and remove all the debris brought to your home during the storm. To avoid further wind damage and ice damage, the restoration crew will reinforce the affected house's weak structural walls and roof, helping it withstand ice dams and strong winds.

After these, several processes and services are undertaken. They include:


Water damage restoration and water removal using a flood pump.
Water damage restoration is essential if flood water finds its way into your home. Flood water can result from heavy rains, river flooding, or groundwater runoff. A flood pump can remove this flooding water. Stagnating water also needs to be cleared quickly using a flood pump to avoid the growth of mold.

Hail Damage Restoration
In addition to water restoration, hail damage restoration may also involve ice damage restoration. A hail storm can result in ice damming in your home. A professional company can remove the ice dams around your home by using equipment designed for this process. They can also fix the ice damage that follows a storm.

Roof Repair
Roof repair is among the most common home restoration services needed after a storm. Roof damage can be caused by strong winds or trees falling on the structure. Without repairing the roof, water damage restoration in the house will be in vain. Hail damage and heavy rains can cause flat roofs to sink or cause seepage and a roof leak. Therefore, roof repairs entail sealing the roof and reinstalling new tiles, and reinforcing the roofing frames. Gutters and frozen pipes damaged from ice damming also need to be repaired.

Storm Damage Remediation for Your Spokane Home

Elements like rain, wind, lightning, and hail can wreak havoc on your property if you don't seek professional storm damage cleanup services. Call our team at SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane at the first signs of storm damage to help prevent things such as mold growth and structural collapse. We offer various storm damage restoration services to help you deal with a crisis twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Storm Damage on Hard Surface Flooring Need Special Attention

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

Tile floor with loosened tiles due to water damage Although ceramic tiles are water resistant, they are not waterproof and can become loosened. SERVPRO knows how to dry the subfloor. Call us today!

Hard surface flooring covers masonry like ceramic tilings, concrete and resilient tiles. These types of floor material are commonly found in basements, garages, and kitchens of residential homes. A flood or natural disaster can lead to hard surface flooring being exposed to large amounts of water for a significant time.

The impact of flood damage on the floors of your Spokane home largely depends on the installation and material. Concretes are generally porous, which means they can absorb moisture, blister, or crack. Ceramic and resilient tiles resist water well, although installation issues for improper sealing can cause moisture to leak beneath tiles damaging the subfloor below.

  • Concrete floors can often be restored using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum, which reduces moisture content and microbial growth.
  • Asphalt and other resilient tiles may become chalky after exposure to water; however, careful assessment of subfloor with a moisture meter is necessary.
  • Insufficient vapor barriers on Ceramic Tiles can cause the subfloor underneath to warp, leading to cracking. Otherwise, ceramics have a strong resistance to water exposure.

Hard surface flooring is often repairable with the correct technique and equipment. Contact SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane for flood damage repair. Our trained technicians are available for your storm damage emergency 24/7 at (509) 474-9144.

Spokane Storms Can Cause Sewage to Backup Into Your Home

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

n Spokane, WA and other areas of the country, heavy rains can lead to sewer backup problems and flooding. This leaves homeowners to deal with anywhere from an inch or two of contaminated water to several feet of black water in their home. This happens because public drain systems become overburdened with the excess rain water. It may also happen because of new developments in your area, the loss of grassy areas, and changes in weather patterns. What can you do?

• Discuss the possibility of plugging floor drains with a knowledgeable professional. Your plumber should know whether the drain has a purpose and whether plugging it will violate code.
• If you can't plug the drain, install check valves that prevent the backflow of water from the drain.
• Plumbing fixtures, such as basement toilets, must also be fitted with sewer check valves. Otherwise, the rising water levels will simply move from drains to toilets and sinks.
• Install a main house sewer valve. This backwater prevention valve is available in manual and automatic types and will protect your home from black water backing up from the public sewer. When this valve is closed, you won't be able to use your home's plumbing system until the flooding is resolved.
• Schedule routine visits from your plumber to inspect the underground house drain. During a sewer backup, the house drain may not be strong enough to withstand the steps you take to keep sewage out. Older pipes, porous pipe joints, and weakened pipe joints can all defeat the purpose of your preventative steps.
• Consider installing a sump pump. These pumps move water away from your home and are useful during heavy rain. Work with a professional to avoid code violations.
• Inspect the foundation and leaf gutters to be sure they direct water away from your home. The better you can direct water away from your home, the better your chances of avoiding the results of flooding.

These steps can help you avoid serious sewer backup. Learn more from a remediation professional in your area. Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on water damage

If you've experienced sewage backing up into your home, you'll need a professional cleanup and restoration company--fast. SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane has IICRC Certified Technicians and specialized equipment to safely deal with this hazardous substance. Call us anytime 24/7 and we'll be there to help. Call 509-474-9144.

SERVPRO Trained Professionals Are Experts at Restoring Storm Damaged Property

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage to a Spokane Home Needs Professional Assistance

When a flood or fire does substantive water damage to your property in Spokane, it's important for you to restore its aesthetic appeal, functionality, and safety as quickly as possible. In most cases, attaining professional services from a team of trained water damage specialists is the best way to realize these objectives. Water damage specialists from SERVPRO possess the level of expertise and experience necessary to clean and restore your home following a flood or fire. To determine why obtaining their professional services would be appropriate and ideal for you, consider the following information: 

Cleaning and Repair Services

Water damage specialists like SERVPRO are effective in offering clients cleaning, repairing and restoring services. To begin the process, the specialists will complete a water damage assessment. This assessment will help them discern the extent of damage done to your property. Once they attain this information, the remediation technicians will know which equipment to utilize for the restoration process. They will also know how many contractors will be required to work on the project to get the job done quickly and effectively. By working in teams, remediation specialists can prevent the onset of mold growth as a result of secondary water damage. Additionally, the remediation specialists can work quickly to ensure that you can move back into your home as soon as possible. 

Restoration Services

Part of the important service provided by SERVPRO is restoration. Restoration services are designed to expedite returning your living space to its original condition quickly. Regardless of the specific repairs made to your home, this full-service restoration company can handle them. Restoring rather than replacing when possible, will also lighten the financial burden of this water damage event.  You can focus on other matters such as working with your insurance company. SERVPRO can aid in the management of the insurance paperwork and process. 

Get Great Remediation Services Now 

Witnessing a flood or fire wreak havoc to your home can be disheartening, but help is available. A professional water damage restoration company is effective in providing you with the speedy, savvy remediation services necessary to restore your property and help you to regain a sense of peace. As a leader in the remediation industry, SERVPRO would be delighted to assist you with the restoration process. Our technicians are trained, tenacious, and committed to maintaining the team mentality necessary to get the job done quickly. Contact one of our representatives today and let's get your home in working order.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a water or flooding emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Spokane community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

Water damage restoration is a cornerstone of our business.  Call us 24/7 for an immediate response. (509) 474-9144

Storm Water Can Do Heavy Damage to Your Hardwood Floors

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Hardwood floor with water pooling on it. Don't let storm damage ruin your beautiful hardwood flooring. Call the experts to restore to make it 'like it never even happened."

Our SERVPRO Team Works to Restore Flooring in Your Spokane Home

Severe flooding often leads to a feeling of hopeless loss, however restoring your home may be possible with proper techniques, timing, and professional assistance. In particular, hardwood flooring can become warped due to water damage making it imperative to remove remaining floodwater and dry them as quickly as possible to mitigate further damage. The goal for drying hardwood floors is to make sure they do not buckle or warp permanently from extended exposure to moisture or over-drying. The drying process should be professionally monitored to prevent this kind of damage.

Hardwood is Durable and Receptive to Restoration

With flooring as costly as it is in Spokane, restoring rather than replacing hardwood is ideal after flood damage. Hardwood floors hold up better than softwood because they are composed of dense fibers. Tiles can be more resistant to water damage than wood, but can also sustain loss if there are cracks in the tile or compromised areas in the grout.

What is the Process for Restoring Hardwood Floors?

  • Moisture meters with probes measure the water content through all the flooring layers and subflooring; hardwood should have a moisture content below 16% to prevent mold growth.
  • Remove floor finish if it acts as a drying barrier, or use a pin roller to make small perforations so excess moisture can evaporate.
  • Use drying mats and hoses to force warm air over the flooring to dry it. This can be done from above or below the floors. 
  • After the moisture is consistently below 12%, hardwood flooring restoration specialists can refinish the floor.

After a flood, contact SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane at (509) 474-9144. We have the trained experts and professional equipment to restore your damaged hardwood flooring. Our emergency response team is available 24/7. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Don't Take Bad Advice After Flood in Your Spokane Home

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Flooring in flooded home Taking advice from DIY websites after a flood may leave you with an even bigger problem.

SERVPRO’s Experienced and Knowledgeable Technicians Give You the Best Flood Damage Advice

When bad things happen in a home such as flood damage, one of the first things many people do is jump on a Google search for instructions on how to fix the situation themselves. This action has the potential to cause even more loss and personal injury in some cases.

Safety is a top priority for SERVPRO technicians during cleanup and restoration in Spokane homes with flood damage. When groundwater enters a property, it carries a rating as a category three biohazard. The reason for this is that anything it encounters along the way comes along for the ride and winds up in the house, which often includes bacteria and sewage. Homeowners and pets should avoid contact.

This Water Requires Testing

SERVPRO has different types of antibacterial and antimicrobial solutions. Once they test the groundwater to determine bacteria or contaminants present, they can treat the water to lessen the hazards of coming into contact with it during cleanup. Frequently given lousy advice is to pour bleach wherever there is standing water. This action can damage flooring, leave bleach spots in carpet, and ruin building materials. Although the techs don full-body protective clothing, including respiration, they apply the highest level of care when handling water loss of this type.

Bad Drying Advice

After flood loss in a home, a big mistake property owners make: running household fans on wet carpet. This does nothing to dry the padding or address the possibility of seepage into the subfloor. SERVPRO techs use an array of moisture detection equipment to locate water anywhere it migrates to ensure it all gets extracted with their professional equipment and dried entirely through the use of their high-velocity air movers and industrial dehumidifiers.

Disinfection is Crucial

Due to the unsafe elements typically found in groundwater, the cleaning of surfaces exposed to it is a big part of the restoration services. The use of specific antimicrobial and antibacterial cleaning agents assists not only in sanitizing but also inhibiting mold growth. Before use, the techs carefully assess the object or surface to ensure the correct cleaning method gets implemented.

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane has the IICRC certified training and advanced equipment to restore homes from flood damage. Call their emergency response team at (509) 474-9144, and the certified techs make the water loss, "Like it never even happened."

Don't Be a Victim Twice. Beware of Storm Damage Scammers.

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Scam alert warning sign Homeowners can be especially vulnerable to scams after storm damage. Beware of deals that are too good to be true.

Beware of Fraudulent Restoration After Spokane Storm Damage 

Severe storm systems are nothing new to Spokane residents, many of whom have dealt with multiple destructive storms. Most property owners have added additional coverage options with their insurance provider in the off chance that more devastating storm systems might occur. The work required to return your property to the preloss condition must still begin quickly. Many have turned to our SERVPRO team's experience and fast response over the years, but there are just as many who have sought low price shopping. 

With how extensive storm damage in Spokane properties can be, you need a team with the knowledge and experience to help right away. Structural threats exist that can result in injuries or costlier repairs.  These same storms can also bring about flooding and loss events that make it impossible to remain in your house. The only solution is rapid restoration and recovery options that exist. While our SERVPRO team has the training and experience to back up our reputation, you should be aware of deals that sound too good to be true. 

There are a series of “businesses” that tend to crop up immediately following widespread storm damage across Spokane. While many homeowners seek out the reputable companies with positive online reviews like our SERVPRO professionals, others can fall into the allure of a cheap flat rate and promises of getting you back into your home more quickly than you thought possible. 

The idea behind these short-term businesses is to get as much upfront payments as possible and then vanish. No work ever gets completed on your property, and you are out a portion of the total restoration cost estimated when these con artists first arrived at your house. Our professionals never ask for upfront payments, even a small portion of the total restoration costs. Never pay for work that is not happening. 

We understand that you might not choose our SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane team when storm damages occur to your property, but we never want to see one of our neighbors fall into these unfortunate scams that take place when things seem the bleakest. No matter what we can do to help after a storm, never hesitate to call us 24/7 at (509) 474-9144.

How Do You Deal With Storm Damage in Spokane, WA?

11/21/2021 (Permalink)

By being prepared and having a trusted restoration partner like SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane at your side you can weather any storm.

Storms happen many times without notice, causing severe destruction of buildings and personal property. As a property owner, you must deal with wind damage, flood damage, hail damage, and ice damage caused by storms. All these situations regularly result in expensive water damage cleanup and repairs.

Water damage, especially from a storm, can be destructive. It can cause street flooding, river flooding, and a rise in groundwater levels. Floodwater can cause severe property damage if it is not cleaned and remediated fast enough. Under these circumstances, you most likely will need restoration services to strategies for storm remediation.

Storm damage can also involve destruction from strong winds, hailstorms, or even a snowstorm. Suppose you are looking for storm restoration services. In that case, it is crucial to look for a professional company with a reputation for providing comprehensive home restoration services, repairs, and advice on storm remediation.

How Do You Stay Safe During a Storm?

Before a storm, there are things you can do to prepare to stay safe:

  • Before leaving heading outdoors, be sure and check the weather report.
  • Postpone activities outdoors if storms are approaching.
  • Make sure your electronic devices such as cellphones and tablets are fully charged so that you can get weather reports if the power goes out.
  • Keep an AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio handy if you cannot use your electronic devices.
  • Check on other family members and neighbors who may need special assistance during and after the storm, i.e., those with infants, the elderly, and those with disabilities.
  • Stock up on non-perishable food and water. In a refrigerator without power, food will only last two days at the most and then need to be thrown away to prevent foodborne illness.
  • Spare batteries and flashlights should be kept on hand and in a place that is easy to find. Depending on the season, keep extra blankets for when it's cold, and handheld fans for when it's hot.
  • A generator can also be helpful during a long-term power outage offering enough electricity to power a refrigerator, cellphones, small appliances, and computers, depending on the model.
  • Be sure and secure outdoor items like trash bins and patio furniture that could blow away with strong winds.
  • Remove items like hanging plants that could blow into windows or sliding glass doors.
  • Ensure that propane and other fuel tanks are properly secured.
  • Remove any dead or rotting trees and limbs that could fall and cause damage.

What Should You Do During a Storm?

  • If you hear thunder heard for cover.  You are close enough to be struck by lightning. Find a safe shelter immediately.
  • Move to a sturdy building or car. Do not take shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees, or in convertible automobiles.
  • If lightning occurs and sturdy shelter is unavailable, get inside a hard-top automobile and keep the windows up.
  • Unplug appliances that are not necessary for obtaining weather information.
  • Avoid using landline telephones or electrical appliances as telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity.
  • Get to higher ground if flooding is possible. DO NOT attempt to drive to safety. Most flash flooding deaths occur in automobiles.

How to Check Your Home for Storm Damage

Thoroughly Assess the Damage
Roof damage is the most likely result of a storm. Evaluate it for roof damage and roof leaks. If there was flooding, assess the floodwater level in your home, water damage on your walls.  Winter storms can cause frozen pipes and ice dams to form.

Common features of roof damage to check on are:

  • Broken or cracked tiles or slate
  • Roof leaks
  • Dents on gutters and vents
  • Split seams
  • Ice dams
  • Penetrations due to trees and other flying debris

Doors and windows are generally susceptible to wind damage also. Subsequently, inspect cracks, holes, glass shards, damaged door and window frames. A professional damage restoration service provider can help you assess and estimate the restoration costs.

The Process of Storm Damage Restoration

After an assessment of the damage, a suitable restoration plan is needed. Damage caused by a storm can run deep and not easy to interpret right away. However, a professional company can use specialized devices to probe and find out the affected areas. The first step of storm restoration is to clear and remove all the debris brought to your home during the storm. To avoid further wind damage and ice damage, the restoration crew will reinforce the affected house's weak structural walls and roof, helping it withstand ice dams and strong winds.

After these, several processes and services are undertaken. They include:
Water restoration and water removal using a flood pump.
Water restoration is essential if flood water finds its way into your home. Flood water can result from heavy rains, river flooding, or groundwater runoff. A flood pump can remove this flooding water. Stagnating water also needs to be cleared quickly using a flood pump to avoid the growth of mold.

Hail Damage Restoration
In addition to water restoration, hail damage restoration may also entail ice damage restoration. A hail storm can result in ice damming in your home. A professional company can remove the ice dams around and in your home by using effective equipment designed for this process. They can also fix the ice damage that follows a storm.

Roof Repair
Roof repair is among the most common home restoration services needed after a storm. Roof damage can be caused by strong winds or trees falling on the structure. Without repairing the roof, water restoration in the house will be in vain. Hail damage and heavy rains can cause flat roofs to sink or cause seepage and a roof leak. Therefore, roof repairs entail sealing the roof and reinstalling new tiles, and reinforcing the roofing frames. Gutters and frozen pipes damaged from ice damming also need to be repaired.

Storm Damage Remediation for Your Spokane Home

Elements like rain, wind, lightning, and hail can wreak havoc on your property if you don't seek professional storm damage cleanup services. Call our team at SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane at the first signs of storm damage to help prevent things such as mold growth and structural collapse. We offer various storm damage restoration services to help you deal with a crisis twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Should I Clean My Basement After Flooding?

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

As the lowest point in your home, the basement is a prime area for water infiltration. SERVPRO is standing by ready, Here to Help Spokane.

Call SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane to Restore Your Spokane Basement After a Flood

Storms in Spokane can be devastating to your home, even if they do not affect a broad area. They can create damage to the roof and windows or saturate the ground around your home. Under all circumstances, water entry into your home can be devastating and costly if left unattended. Rather than relying on intuition, invite a professional service to assess the damage and develop a restoration plan for the health of your home.

For basement flooding in the Spokane area, SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is standing by, Here to Help. Our team of experts can handle all magnitude of flooding needs. Upon arriving at your home, we thoroughly inspect all affected areas to determine the extent of the damage. A professional team is crucial when you need to file an insurance claim for the loss to help guide you through the process. As we work in your home, we document each of our action steps, which are invaluable as you complete your case for insurance purposes.

What Not to Do After a Flood in Your Basement

When water enters your home, quick remediation is essential. Regardless of how quickly you reach out to our SERVPRO team, you can do a few things to await our arrival. Taking swift action can help mitigate the damage to your house as well as your personal belongings. A simple way to apply the same principles that guide our work include:

  • Remove materials such as upholstery and fabric. Storm waters invite bacteria into your home, and absorbent material can become a breeding ground.
  • Air out the area as much as possible. Our team brings industrial-grade drying equipment such as dehumidifiers, air movers, and air filtration devices. Still, your initial efforts in encouraging water evaporation can be beneficial.
  • Avoid cross-contamination. Help protect other areas of your home by avoiding traffic within it. Our team sets up physical containment barriers with plastic sheeting to prevent debris and microbes from traveling through your home when necessary.

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is at your service when flooding happens. Call us at (509) 474-9144 and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened."

More about Spokane.

Flood and Muddy Waters In Spokane? Call SERVPRO for Removal and Cleanup

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can leave behind a large amount of debris. Partner with SERVPRO at this time for effective flood damage remediation services.

Understanding the Difference Between Water & Flood Damage in Your Spokane Home

Many Spokane homeowners consider water damage to be the same as flood damage, and this assumption can get people into a bit of trouble. In general, floods cause more significant health risks and cost more to repair. However, there is more to it, and you need to understand how to discern between the two and what it means for your home.

When you think about it, water problems can come from anywhere, including leaks in your roof, plumbing fixtures, appliances, and more. It also usually only affects a small area making things complex but not unmanageable. However, flood damage can hit your Spokane area home fast, leaving everything around you covered in sewage, mud, and other debris that affect your entire property and beyond. While floods are commonly temporary, the cleanup process can end up taking a long time.

All of the mud and debris swept in by a flood leaves a residue behind that requires removal before disinfecting your property can begin. Professionals, like those offered by SERVPRO, disinfect every surface found in your home, a process that includes applying biocides, antimicrobials, and bacterial disinfectants to everything by hand.

SERVPRO technicians use infrared and thermal imaging to locate all of the hidden pockets of moisture in your home. Every enclosed space can contain any of a variety of mold spores carried in by a flood, and they need to be taken care of before they can grow. We use water extractors, dehumidifiers, air movers, and all sorts of different equipment to address problems found in your home.

SERVPRO’s staff also helps you communicate with your insurance provider, improving the overall claim process. We help you get the emergency support you need to make your house a home again, “Like it never even happened.” Our team manages the entire restoration process from start to finish. This includes all repairs and helping prepare your home against future incursion.

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, year-round to provide members of our local community with the cleanup and restoration services needed to get things back on track fast. Call our restoration office any time, day or night. (509) 474-9144.

Can Flooding Cause Harm to Hard Surface Flooring?

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Although ceramic tiles are water resistant, they are not waterproof and can become loosened. SERVPRO knows how to dry the subfloor. Call us today!

SERVPRO Can Restore Flooring in your Colbert Home after a Flood Event

Hard surface flooring covers masonry like ceramic tilings, concrete and resilient tiles. These types of floor material are commonly found in basements, garages, and kitchens of residential homes. A flood or natural disaster can lead to hard surface flooring being exposed to large amounts of water for a significant time.

The impact of flood damage on the floors of your Colbert home largely depends on the installation and material. Concretes are generally porous, which means they can absorb moisture, blister, or crack. Ceramic and resilient tiles resist water well, although installation issues for improper sealing can cause moisture to leak beneath tiles damaging the subfloor below.

  • Concrete floors can often be restored using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum, which reduces moisture content and microbial growth.
  • Asphalt and other resilient tiles may become chalky after exposure to water; however, careful assessment of subfloor with a moisture meter is necessary.
  • Insufficient vapor barriers on Ceramic Tiles can cause the subfloor underneath to warp, leading to cracking. Otherwise, ceramics have a strong resistance to water exposure.

Hard surface flooring is often repairable with the correct technique and equipment. Contact SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane for flood damage repair at (509) 474-9144.

Can You Ever Be Too Cautious When Keeping Your Kids Safe in Colbert?

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Storms may cause flood damage to your home. Don't be discouraged. Call SERVPRO for the water damage restoration services needed for your home.

Follow Recommendations from Safe Start in Colbert’s Neighbor Spokane Valley in “Car Seat Safety 101 Online Live”

Learn how to ensure your child’s safety in your car from Safe Start’s Certified Child Passenger Safety Instructor, Brian. This free, online session provides critical information for conscientious parents, including:

  • Choosing the correct car seat
  • Determining the safest place to install a car seat
  • Deciding when to move up to a larger size seat

Safe Start has new car seats available for families in need. To qualify, you must be unable to afford one yourself, and your child must not currently have a safe seat. Taking this class is a requirement to receive a free seat.

  • Date And Time: Thursday, February 4, 2021

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM 

  • Register through Eventbrite Spokane Valley or contact 

Safe Start

10814 E. Broadway Ave.

Suite 004

Spokane Valley, WA 99206

206.582.6191

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane pledges to return your flood-damaged Colbert home to “Like it never even happened.” Seek safety from storm-related harm by calling (509) 474-9144.

What Can Spokane Homeowners Expect from Professional Flood Damage Recovery?

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage is no laughing matter. Call the professionals at SERVPRO to have your property restored to preloss condition.

SERVPRO's Focused Training, Equipment, and Equipment Offer Highly Successful Outcomes for Spokane Flood Damage Scenarios

The Spokane area has many stories of relatively recent flooding in the Vinegar Flats and Peaceful Valley areas. Seasonal overflows from Handman Creek and the Spokane River frequently put homes built in these locations at risk of substantial flooding. A devastating flood occurred on May 15, 1957, when mud, rocks, and debris flowed nearly as freely as the water pouring over the rivers' banks. Houses clogged with silt were also surrounded with several feet of larger rocks and mud. Modern flood damage restoration efforts surely would have been appreciated during the 1957 disaster.

Has the Spokane Area Always Been at Risk of Flooding?

No matter how severe flooding gets in the 21st century, the stories pale compared to the massive Missoula floods dating to the end of the Last Glacial Maximum. Research into this ancient flooding began in the 1920s. Geologist J Harlen Bretz was the first to investigate the deposits and unique erosion patterns in eastern Washington. The miles-deep ice sheets ultimately covering what is now Washington State began their buildup 33,000 years ago. Maximum land coverage with glaciers peaked between 26,500 years and 19,000 years in the past. Climate changes caused the glaciers to disappear over a period from roughly 15,000 to 13,000 years ago. In the Spokane area, the melting of the glaciers resulted in the prehistoric flooding, known variously as the:

  • Missoula floods
  • Spokane floods
  • Bretz floods or Bretz's floods

Where Did the Missoula or Spokane Floods Flow?

The flooding affected what is now eastern Washington State, unloading massive quantities of glacial meltwater down the Columbia River Gorge. There is evidence that the narrows adjacent to modern-day Kalama Washington halted the flow enough that temporary lakes more than 400 feet deep formed, spreading floodwaters in the Willamette Valley to what is now Eugene, Oregon. Sediments deposited during those events likely contributed to the fertility of the soil in the valley.

Was There One or Many Ancient Floods in the Spokane Area?

Many researchers developed hypotheses, often divergent, about the Missoula or Spokane floods' number and timing. Eventually, a consensus developed after years of controversy. Analysis of sediments and the use of paleomagnetism theories lead to the best answer possible at this time. Paleomagnetism comprises the study of the Earth's magnetic fields as presented in rocks and sediments, and sometimes fossils. The investigations determine:

  • The magnetic field's direction and intensity as the sedimentary rock forms.
  • An interpretation of the geology's magnetic minerals preserving a record of long-ago events that disrupted the rocky material.
  • A time-scale that can be a geochronologic tool.

What Is the Most Recent Theory on the Mechanisms of the Prehistoric Flooding?

Using the above resources separate discernable layers into convincing evidence of sequential floods. The glacial meltwater dammed up for lengthy periods and then released many times. Proof of the repeated flooding events reflects in the following:

  • The layering of deposits of ash from eruptions of Mount St. Helens.
  • Offshore deposits in the Pacific beyond the mouth of the Columbia River that correspond with sediments deposited upriver.

Note: Experts currently believe there were 30–40 year intervals between flood events based on the above data. On occasion, the gap in flooding could have been up to 60 years. 

Why Did the Water Release from the Glacial-Era Natural Dams?

The Clark Fork River drains a vast region of the Rocky Mountains, including western Montana and northern Idaho areas. This watershed created prehistoric "Lake Missoula" above the Columbia River gorge. Ice dammed up the glacial meltwater, holding it tight until a sequence of natural reactions periodically "burst" the dam, and substantial amounts of water flooded down the outflow of the watershed. With every inch of water collected behind the dam, pressure increased at the bottom of the dam. The pressure lowered the water's freezing point, permitting liquid water to invade cracks in the ice dam. As more water invaded, the fissures increased in number and size. Shortly thereafter, the dam collapsed, followed by a glacial lake outburst flood. Once the overflow was released, the dam was built back, and the cycle recurred.

Estimates of the size and speed of the flow when the dam burst is staggering:

  • Floodwaters flowed at approximately 45 miles per hour (based on the force needed to dislodge the largest boulders moved by the flood).
  • Nine cubic miles of water flowed per hour during any one of the dozens of floods, more than ten times the estimated flow of all present rivers in the world combined.

What Is the Protocol for Flood Recovery in Spokane Today?

Current Spokane's storm-related flood damage is more manageable than the ancient flooding, particularly when our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained team arrived with fully-stocked service vehicles. Prompt assessment of safety hazards, plus structural and content damage is crucial, and our 24-hour response sets the stage for a successful resolution of a flood loss.

How Are Flood Waters Removed and Spaces Dried in Spokane?

SERVPRO maintains a comprehensive and scalable inventory of high-efficiency water pumping and extraction equipment. Once silt is mucked out, we select from the following options:

  • Submersible pumps remove water more than 2 inches deep, perhaps using "trash pumps" for muddy fluids.
  • Truck-mounted extractors rid your home from the bulk of the remaining water.
  • Containment tanks hold contaminated water for locally lawful disposal.
  • Portable extractors are perfect for confined spaces.
  • Air movers accelerate drying.
  • Heaters enhance evaporation.
  • Dehumidifiers remove water vapor, condensed or absorbed for containment and disposal.

What Do Professionals Do to Clean and Disinfect After Spokane Flood Damage?

Surfaces receive thorough scrubbing with EPA-registered cleaners as a first step to remove pathogens and limit odors. SERVPRO crews wear personal protective equipment (PPE) for safety and to prevent the spread of residues and debris during flood cleanup. Persistent smells might require advanced deodorization technology such as enzyme treatments or hydroxyl generators to change the chemical composition of odor-bearing particles.

Although we are spared the devastation of Missoula floods in the 21st century, SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane takes your flood damage needs seriously. Call (509) 474-9144 any day of the year, round the clock, for top-notch flooding mitigation and remediation services.

The Pavilion Light Show Brightens Up the Holidays in Spokane

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

We look forward to seeing you at the Pavilion Holiday Lights Display.

Residents Are Encouraged to View the Pavilion Holiday Lights Display

Even though during 2020 many local events may have been canceled due to the recent pandemic, two holiday- favorites can still be enjoyed during the season. For one, locals can still enjoy the light display that takes place every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. After Thanksgiving, the light displays occur more often, and the shows are themed towards Christmas.

During the light displays, visitors can experience:

  • The pavilion was built for an expo in 1974 and was given to the city. This structure was a gift from the U.S. government. The facility is unique and considered one of the city's most famous landmarks.
  • The pavilion's location provides for exquisite views of the Spokane River and the city's beautiful skyline.
  • At times, the pavilion hosts concerts on the grounds, and sometimes the shows get paired with the light displays.

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane has been known to residents as a reputable company to call for flooding cleanup services. We can be reached 24/7 at (509) 474-9144.

Should the Roof Be Inspected After a Storm?

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

From roof to basement, SERVPRO provides crews with advanced equipment for storm damage mitigation in the Greater Spokane area

SERVPRO Can Inspect Spokane Roof Structures after a Storm

Storms in Spokane can cause a great deal of flooding when excess water overflows storm drains, creeks, and rivers. High winds and heavy rain during storms can damage your roof, causing leaks and rainwater to penetrate the attic, even into your living area. Water can run down the walls, into carpeting, and spread into adjacent rooms.

SERVPRO provides flood damage services in Spokane and surrounding areas. We have trained technicians to offer mold remediation, fire damage, and storm restoration services.

While your home may have survived the floodwaters unscathed, your roof may not have survived the high winds or even trees falling on the roof. Shingles may have been ripped off, allowing rainwater to enter and cause further damage. Homeowners should consider the following steps in these situations:

  • Always stay safe and avoid going on the roof
  • If possible, check the attic for leaks or damage from water
  • From the ground, check for missing shingles, metal facia, and other damage to the siding

SERVPRO technicians can assess the damage and provide recommendations on how to proceed with needed repairs to your roof and interior areas.

Can Carpet Stains Be Removed After a Roof Leak?

Water from a leak in the roof can quickly spread into living areas, soaking flooring including carpets and wood materials. Carpets can be stained from dyes and chemicals absorbed by the rainwater from various building materials. Quick action by our team can limit the damage before the stains in carpeting dry and become permeant. SERVPRO can be onsite in less than four hours and:     

  • Remove surplus water utilizing a variety of water extractors
  • Clean and wash the carpets and floor materials
  • Deploy dehumidifiers and air movers to reduce the humidity and dry materials

Occasionally these stains cannot be removed, or the carpet is damaged, causing delamination. If the rainwater was deemed highly contaminated, then discarding is the safe option. We can assist homeowners that require documentation to support insurance claims. Our team can provide full flood damage and restoration services by working with other contractors when needed.

Call SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane (509) 474-9144 for help with flood damage to your home.

Can Water Damaged Hardwood Floors Be Fixed in Spokane, WA?

7/12/2020 (Permalink)

Flood damage to a home can ruin some of your favorite rooms. Call SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane to mitigate the damage to your home at 509-474-9144.

Our SERVPRO Team Works to Restore Flooring in Your Spokane Home

Severe flooding often leads to a feeling of complete loss, however restoring your home may be possible with proper techniques, timing, and professional assistance. In particular, hardwood flooring can become warped due to water damage making it imperative to remove remaining floodwater and dry them as quickly as possible to mitigate further damage. The goal for drying hardwood floors is to make sure they do not buckle or warp permanently from extended exposure to moisture or over-drying. The drying process should be closely monitored to prevent this kind of damage.

How Does Hardwood Compare to Other Flooring After a Flood?

Hardwood is Durable and Receptive to Restoration

With flooring as costly as it is in Spokane, restoring rather than replacing hardwood is ideal after flood damage. Hardwood floors hold up better than softwood because they are composed of dense fibers. Tiles can be more resistant to water damage than wood, but can also sustain loss if there are cracks in the tile or compromised areas in the grout.

What is the Process for Restoring Hardwood Floors?

  • Moisture meters with probes measure the water content through all the flooring layers and subflooring; hardwood should have a moisture content below 16% to prevent mold growth.
  • Remove floor finish if it acts as a drying barrier, or use a pin roller to make small perforations so excess moisture can evaporate.
  • Use drying mats and hoses to force warm air over the flooring to dry it. This can be done from above or below the floors. 
  • After the moisture is consistently below 12%, hardwood flooring restoration specialists can refinish the floor.

After a flood, contact SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane at (509) 474-9144. Our emergency response team is available 24/7. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.


Click here for more information about Spokane.

What Persistent Problems Can I Face After My Spokane Home Floods?

5/31/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding can quickly cause a cascade of problems in your home. Contact SERVPRO immediately to remediate the damage.

Deep Scoping by SERVPRO Can Help Identify and Eliminate Problems That Persist After Flood Damage Incidents in Spokane

Ideally, after cleaning the areas soiled during flooding and removing all traces of water, normalcy should return to your house. However, there are flooding cases that result in ongoing problems even after you deal with the initial damage. 

What problems are common after resolving flood damage incidents in Spokane?

  • Mold development
  • Uneven surfaces
  • Persistent odor

From the experiences our SERVPRO teams have restoring properties, poor moisture management is the leading factor that causes recurring problems in a Spokane property after flooding. Moisture migrates around a property in many ways once water finds a way inside. For instance, water can reach subfloors in tiled areas by filtering in through the grout lines. Wicking through materials and condensation can also transfer it to unexpected areas within the property. Leaving such moisture in place can trigger unending cycles of mold growth around the property.

Are there physical changes that happen after the initial damage from flooding is resolved?

If there are moisture remnants in cavities such as subfloors or wall spaces, the deterioration progresses unnoticed. You might only realize that something is not right when you notice uneven surfaces. Common signs of serious underlying issues include:

  • Tiles coming loose from the surfaces
  • Warping and buckling of floorboards
  • Cupping or crowning of floorboards

Resolving the underlying moisture problem before fixing the visible damage is crucial. Our SERVPRO technicians use thermal cameras and other moisture detection tools to identify the hidden pockets of wetness. Then we can open up the areas to dry moisture and remove damaged materials. Alternatively, we use sophisticated cavity drying systems such as drying mats and injecti-dry systems. Our advanced equipment allows for open and closed systems to further enhance and expedite the drying process.

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane has the skill sets necessary to resolve flood damage in your Colbert, or Chattaroy home permanently. Call us any time at (509) 474-9144. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Click here to learn more about Spokane.

How Do I Get Floodwater Out of My Basement Without a Sump Pump?

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Protect your flooded home in Spokane from bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens by calling SERVPRO.

SERVPRO has professional-grade extraction equipment to leave your Spokane basement water-free

Not every basement in the Spokane area has a sump pump, and in some cases, large amounts of water can overheat the pump and cause a failure. Due to the slab substrate that makes up a basement, there is nowhere for the water to drain off, and standing water that may already have sewage or contaminants becomes even more hazardous rapidly.       

How Can I Remove Standing Water From My Spokane Basement?

Mainly when the water is groundwater, there is often the added issue of debris, possible chemicals, and often: sewage as part of the flood damage in Spokane basements. All of these probabilities make the cleanup an unhealthy situation for anyone who does not have protective clothing, professional equipment, and treatment applications to reduce the microbes or pathogens present. When handling a floodwater situation, the technicians wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, to inhibit aspirating water vapor that may contain harmful elements.

How Can I Know if the Water in My Basement is Unhealthy?

While debris is easy to spot in groundwater, you cannot see harmful bacteria or microbes by looking. SERVPRO technicians can test the water on arrival to determine the presence of toxic elements and apply proactive water treatments to make the water safer to handle. Typically, the assumption of contamination requires a protocol for its removal.

Extraction Equipment Makes the Difference in Outcomes

A flooded basement can feel overwhelming to see, but SERVPRO techs take an organized approach to the cleanup and restoration services. A typical set up may go as follows:

  • Wearing personal protective gear to handle contaminated water
  • Technicians test the water to determine what is in it
  • Apply treatments as needed
  • Extraction of the water in the basement
  • Removal of saturated items for inspection in another area
  • Scoping with moisture detection equipment to find all areas of migration
  • Drying phase
  • Disinfection and Proactive treatments for odor and mold

The extraction equipment plays a huge roll in the best outcome due to water damage of all types. A wet/dry vacuum, even multiple units do not possess the pulling power of the portable pumps used by SERVPRO in local Spokane homes. When the water is deeper than two inches, the technicians have access to submersible pumps that work to remove water. When the water collection in the basement is severe, the techs use truck-mounted pumps to remove not only water but also debris.

Common Issues in Finished Basements with Water Damage

SERVPRO techs see the following issues in finished Spokane basements with floodwater:

  • Delaminated of resilient tiles or loss of adhesion by glue-down carpet
  • Seepage under floating floors requiring removal for extraction and drying
  • Buckled sheetrock from wicked water

When the technicians mitigate loss, particularly from groundwater, items that became saturated from the floodwater generally require disposal as a biohazard. In the case of carpeting, because it can be cumbersome, for safety reasons, the techs remove the water and then cut it into strips for disposal.

Special Tactics for Drying Basement Substrate

The most common material found in a basement floor is concrete. Because of the absorbent qualities, drying methods that include specialized equipment to extract the embedded moisture in the slab flooring. SERVPRO techs use air movers to assist in creating a chain reaction that causes embedded moisture to rise where dehumidification equipment captures it. Another common technique involves putting plastic over the areas where the moisture detection equipment shows areas of elevated humidity. Air movers direct warm, dry air into the area under the plastic tenting and dries the damp floor more rapidly, but at a controlled pace to prevent fracturing and degradation. We can utilize portable gas heaters to enhance the drying rate and efficiency. This can take a number of days.

Disinfection is Necessary After Drying

For the basement to be safe to reuse by the residents, the surfaces require wiping down with cleaning agents to address any bacteria or pathogens present. If cinderblock or other masonry elements need cleanup, SERVPRO has specially formulated cleaners specifically for brick and grout lines. We can apply ERP-registered products to disinfect against bacteria, viruses, and mold.

Odor Control is Often Part of Basement Water Damage Cleanup

Due to the lack of ventilation in most basements, musty water odors can get trapped. There are different levels of odor treatment applications that the technicians have handy. For mild scents, time-release gel-pellets may be enough to eliminate any reminders of the floodwater. However, if the odor needs more robust methods, they have specific equipment to address these odors and neutralize them.

Don't wait to deal with flood damage, SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane at (509) 474-9144 is available 24/7 to remove the water and restore your property to its preloss condition.

Types of Bad Advice Spokane Homeowners Get About Flood Damage

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is quick to get your flood damage under control and happy to answer any questions you may have. Give us a call at (509) 474-9144.

Trust SERVPRO’s Experienced and Knowledgeable Technicians With Your Home’s Flood Damage and Advice

When bad things happen in a home such as flood damage, one of the first things many people do is lookup online for instructions on how to fix the situation themselves. This action has the potential to cause even more loss and personal injury in some cases.

Safety for all is a priority for SERVPRO technicians during cleanup and restoration in Spokane homes with flood damage. When groundwater enters a property, it carries a rating as a category three biohazard. The reason for this is that anything it encounters along the way comes along for the ride and winds up in the house, which often includes bacteria and sewage. Homeowners and pets should avoid contact.

This Water Requires Testing

SERVPRO has different types of antibacterial and antimicrobial solutions. Once they test the groundwater to determine bacteria or contaminants present, they can treat the water to lessen the hazards of coming into contact with it during cleanup. Frequently given lousy advice is to pour bleach wherever there is standing water. This action can damage flooring, leave bleach spots in carpet, and ruin building materials. Although the techs don full-body protective clothing, including respiration, they apply the highest level of care when handling water loss of this type.

Bad Drying Advice

After flood loss in a home, a big mistake property owners make: running household fans on wet carpet. This does nothing to dry the padding or address the possibility of seepage into the subfloor. SERVPRO techs use an array of moisture detection equipment to locate water anywhere it migrates to ensure it all gets extracted with their professional equipment and dried entirely through the use of their high-velocity air movers and industrial dehumidifiers.

Disinfection is Crucial

Due to the unsafe elements typically found in groundwater, the cleaning of surfaces exposed to it is a big part of the restoration services. The use of specific antimicrobial and antibacterial cleaning agents assists not only in sanitizing but also inhibiting mold growth. Before use, the techs carefully assess the object or surface to ensure the correct cleaning method gets implemented.

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane has the training and advanced equipment to restore homes from flood damage. Call their emergency response team at (509) 474-9144, and the certified techs make the water loss, "Like it never even happened."

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How SERVPRO Handles Basement Flooding in Spokane

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have the equipment to dry water damage your basement? SERVPRO does.

SERVPRO Cleans Basement Flood Damage in Spokane 

An estimated 98% of basements suffer water damage during their lifespan. While Washington homeowners are well aware that they need to be careful of this risk to their structures, the sudden introduction of floodwaters into a home is always a stressful and unpleasant experience. On top of that, without professional mitigation, the risk posed by mold and contaminants in your basement can be challenging to eliminate. 

If your Spokane residence requires flood damage cleanup, the experienced professionals at SERVPRO are ready to serve you with IICRC-compliant tools and techniques that can restore your home to a preloss condition. These technicians assist homeowners with everything from mitigation and restoration to claims filing to minimize the stress of home disasters. No matter the size of the incident, SERVPRO has detailed procedures and cleanliness standards in place for addressing everything from mild to extensive damage. 

Basement Flooding Prevention Ideas 

  • Keep drains, downspouts, and gutters clear around your home to reduce the risk of water getting into it.  
  • Repair any cracks you see in your home's foundation or around windows and consider window well covers for added protection. 
  • Monitor your basement's floor drain and install a sump pump or make sure yours is still in working condition.  
  • Install flood monitoring equipment that can sense water right as it penetrates your home. 
  • Elevate furniture and appliances on cinder blocks, and store possessions in watertight plastic containers that are easy to stack

SERVPRO's Powerful, Eco-Friendly Disinfection Process

One of the essential steps after flooding occurs is to remove microbes and bacteria that can come in with silt and other contaminants in floodwater. Disinfection is necessary before drying to prevent the spread of contaminants through the air. 

If you have more than 2 inches of flooding in your basement, SERVPRO can use submersible gas-powered sump pumps to extract water. After removing the bulk of the water and dirt from your basement, technicians can focus on spraying down surfaces with EPA-registered antimicrobials to prevent and remediate microbes and mold.  

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is a team you can count on to be Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (509) 474-9144 any time of the day or night for rapid disaster cleanup.  

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Using Trash Pumps for Flooded Spokane Basements

1/12/2020 (Permalink)

Call us today at (509) 474-9144.

How Gas-Powered Trash Pumps and Electric Submersible Pumps can Benefit your Spokane Home in the Event of a Flood

Many tools can help our SERVPRO professionals to remove standing water from Spokane homes after a flood. While in most situations, the ideal tool for extraction in a household is electric submersible pumps, these are not always the best option when debris and solids might be present in the water to get removed. Instead, there are more powerful extraction tools like gas-powered trash pumps that can do the job more efficiently.

Flood damage in Spokane homes is something that many property owners have either experienced or expected throughout the soaking rains seen throughout the year. With close to forty inches of rain falling on average throughout the area, there are many instances in which creeks and streams can rise to the point of flooding communities that we serve. Because these conditions often come with mud, debris, and other contaminants, traditional clean water sump pumps are not the ideal extraction device to help with several inches or feet of standing water in the basement.

As you might expect, the priority in these circumstances is to remove the water as quickly and efficiently as possible. Drying up surface water can help our SERVPRO professionals to address contaminants, mud, and other cleaning tasks. Because many area homes do not have finished basements, contamination can get treated most efficiently with disinfectants and biocides. These products can remove bacteria and other threatening substances from exposed materials.

Discharging floodwater from this extractor unit typically goes to the sanitary sewer system through sinks, sewer cleanouts, or other access points. Once the water has reached a depth of two inches or less, wet vacuums can work to remove the last remaining fluid and also begin removing the mud and debris on the concrete floor of the basement.

Gas-powered trash pumps are ideal for flood situations because they can get used without a need for constant power to the structure, as widespread flooding can often discontinue electrical service. No matter what tools and approaches your home needs to overcome flooding effects, our SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane team can help. Give us a call today at (509) 474-9144.

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Did the Recent Storm Damage Put Your Family in Danger of Being Scammed?

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Home restoration scams become frequent after storm damage. Be careful when selecting a contractor. SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is always on call!

Beware of Fraudulent Restoration After Spokane Storm Damage 

Severe storm systems are nothing new to Spokane residents, many of which have dealt with multiple destructive storms. Most property owners have added additional coverage options with their insurance provider in the off chance that more devastating storm systems might come again in the future. The work required to return your property to the preloss condition must still begin quickly. Many turned to our SERVPRO team's experience and fast response over the years, but there are just as many who have sought out benefits of low price shopping. 

With how extensive storm damage in Spokane properties can be, you need a team with the knowledge and experience to help right away. Structural threats exist that can result in injuries or costlier repairs.  These same storms can also bring about flooding and loss events that make it impossible to remain in your house. The only solution is rapid restoration and recovery options that exist. While our SERVPRO team has involved training and experience to back up our reputation, you should be aware of deals that sound too good to be true. 

There are a series of “businesses” that tend to crop up immediately following widespread storm damages across Spokane. While many homeowners seek out the reputable companies with positive online reviews like our SERVPRO professionals, others can fall into the allure of a cheap flat rate and promises of getting you back into your home more quickly than you thought possible. 

The idea behind these short-term businesses is to get as much upfront payments as possible and then vanish. No work ever gets completed on your property, and you are out a portion of the total restoration cost estimated when these con artists first arrived at your house. Our professionals never ask for upfront payments, even a small portion of the total restoration costs. Never pay for work that is not happening. 

We understand that you might not choose our SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane team when storm damages occur to your property, but we never want to see one of our neighbors fall into these unfortunate scams that take place when things seem the bleakest. No matter what we can do to help after a storm, never hesitate to call us at (509) 474-9144.

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Flood Damage in Chattaroy? Leave It to SERVPRO for Restoration

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

Happiness Is a SERVPRO Vehicle Parked in Your Chattaroy Driveway after a Flood--Already Restoration Underway!

What Challenges You Might Face after Flood Damage in Your Chattaroy Home

Flooding leads to severe damages, especially when it is the result of a severe weather event such as a storm. Apart from the water pooling on the floors of your house, structural damages are also likely to occur. Strong winds or heavy debris such as fallen tree branches can puncture holes in your structure. These and other challenges make it harder to deal with the damages left by flooding in Chattaroy. Professional flood damage restorers help because of the extensive experience they have dealing with similar incidents.

Areas affected by flood damage in your Chattaroy home are likely to be murky because of the silt, mud and other soils dissolved in the floodwaters. It is a serious challenge because the contaminants pose health risks to anyone that touches them, yet removing the debris and cleaning the affected areas is a crucial aspect of the restoration process. PPE, Personal Protective Equipment, is the answer to this challenge because they allow restorers to wade into the murk immediately. Our SERVPRO crews rely on a wide range of protective gear including full body suits, rubber boots, respirators, gloves, and other equipment allowing us to handle all murky situations conveniently.

Flooding causes various damages to the building materials and contents in a house. Determining what to dispose and what to save can be challenging. Disposal is necessary for heavily porous materials such as carpets exposed to groundwater even when there are no other physical damages because of contamination risks. A thorough cleaning helps save other non-porous items. Our SERVPRO team includes CCT, Carpet Cleaning Technicians, and RRRP, Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation experts who handle the cleanup and restoration necessary with ease.

Removing all water from a flooded property is a challenging task requiring different approaches to restore it to the preloss conditions. After extracting any standing water, there is a need to dry wet materials and restore normal humidity levels. Our SERVPRO team uses air movers and dehumidifiers dry wet materials and restore normal humidity levels.

You can deal efficiently with any issues arising after your Colbert, Chattaroy and Spokane Valley property floods by involving a professional team. Call SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane to assist. You can reach us at (509) 474-9144 any time. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Local information right here.

Small Amount of Flood Damage in Spokane Requires Big Odor Control

6/16/2019 (Permalink)

Flood damage can get anywhere in your home.

SERVPRO helped with this homeowner’s worst nightmare.

Flood damage is one of the worst events a homeowner can experience. This type of water loss carries a rating as a biohazard; groundwater has the potential to contain contaminants and requires professional cleaning for health and safety reasons.

A homeowner contacted our SERVPRO location to clean up some minor flood damage in their Spokane home from recent heavy storms. The homeowner attempted to mop up the water and found it was not enough needed stronger cleaning efforts. He also noticed a strong odor developed in the kitchen area where the water collected.

We immediately scoped the area to determine that areas where the water migrated in the affected area of the home. Our technicians located water under the cabinets and behind the baseboards. We removed the baseboards for better access and used our extractor wands to pull out as much moisture as possible.

There were few items to remove from the kitchen area during our remediation. We moved the table and chairs to another area of the home for a thorough cleaning and disinfection before being used again for meals.

We then set up air movers to dry the area as quickly as possible. Drying often brings down the odor in water damaged areas, and we deploy specialized equipment such as the Injecti-Dry that uses small hoses to force air into small spaces such as behind baseboards or within wall cavities to ensure there are no remaining pockets of moisture that can set up a home for mold growth problems in the future. We take several readings during the drying process to ensure we attain our predetermined drying goals for the water loss areas.

The odor left behind by the groundwater intrusion into the room lowered after drying and disinfection even though minimal, required further odor control efforts. It is not uncommon for multiple applications of different types of neutralization methods to fully eradicate water odors. We chose to use ULV fogging, which delivers a heated cleaning solution as fog and eliminates residual scents.

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is available 24/7 at (509) 474-9144 to turn around any size flood damage to your home and make it "Like it never even happened."

Click here to learn more about Spokane, WA.

Did Recent Storms Cause The River to Run Through Your Spokane Home?

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is ready to handle all of your water restoration needs.

Heavy Spring Rains Can Cause the Spokane River to Bring Flood Damage to Your Home

As the weather changes, and heavy rains fall, you can suddenly find your home in danger of flood damage. In particular, living adjacent to a river bank can be a dangerous place to settle a home when the river overflows. As intense and heavy rain falls, the water level grows higher, impacting your home.

In the case of the flood damage inside of your Spokane home, the river overflowed and pushed water into your basement through an open window. Water cascaded into your laundry room and settled there until you found it the next morning while you intended to wash a load of clothes. The best thing for you to do in this situation is to reach out for help immediately.  

When it comes to flood damage, swiftly calling a professional cleanup and restoration company, like SERVPRO, is the best thing you can do for your home. If left unchecked, the water can sink into the laminate flooring of your laundry room, and it can soak the base of the floor underneath it, as well as cause swelling. Furthermore, allowing the water to soak into your walls can create the perfect environment for microbial growth, which can further damage your home. Leaving the water can also endanger the washing and drying machine, and compromise their structure to rusting, electrical shorting, and further problems.  

When you call SERVPRO, we can immediately send our technicians out to help you. We certify our technicians by the Institution of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IRCC) so you can leave the mess in SERVPRO's hands knowing that our technicians can produce high-quality restoration results. The first step in remediating flood damage is to remove the standing water.  

At SERVPRO we use only advanced technology to get the job done. Our techs can use several devices to remove the water from your home, such as wet/dry vacuums and extractors. Furthermore, to dry out your home, we can remove the laminate tile, dry the base underneath, and make flood cuts to the impacted walls. After setting up an ideal drying environment using devices such as heaters, dehumidifiers, and air movers, SERVPRO can dry your home and then return it to you "Like it never even happened."  

When rains bring floods, never hesitate. Speak with SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane by phoning (509) 474-9144. Night or day, give us a call.

Spokane is the second largest city in Washington. Read more here.

When April Showers Bring Spring Flooding in Spokane

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

When the snow melts and spring rains begin, SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is ready for your water damage emergency.

Spring Flooding and Flood Damage Cleanup in Your Spokane Home

Even though spring brings the promise of warmer weather in Spokane, it can also bring various conditions including severe weather, heavy rains, and rapid snowmelt which can increase the risk of floods in your area. Know the facts about these events ahead of time instead of being caught off guard. You can act to protect you and your family before an event like this happens.  

Floodwaters entering your Spokane home make quite the mess, even with just a few inches of water. Therefore, when this happens to you, calling for the help of a professional remediation company is essential. At SERVPRO, we have the expertise and the tools to get your home looking as if nothing happened, and we can do it fast.  

Warmer temperatures and snowmelt resulting from this can make massive amounts of runoff in a short time. In early spring, frozen ground stops rainfall or melting snow from soaking into the ground. The water runs off into streams, lakes, and rivers, cause the excess water to spill over the banks. Combine this with season storms, and many times you get spring flooding.  

Once SERVPRO techs remove any remaining standing water from your home, we can check for any hidden moisture behind walls and under flooring and proceed with the drying process. With the use of specialized moisture meters, we can find moisture which has seeped out of sight. It is crucial that we dry these areas to prevent additional damage such as mold. Dehumidifiers and air movers help us thoroughly dry your home in a timely fashion.  

Spring storms can dump several inches of rain in just a few hours, or they can stall out over one area for several days. Heavy rains like these can lead to severe flooding by overfilling storm drains, oversaturating the ground, or making rivers spill over their banks. Flash floods are rapid flooding of areas which are low-lying in under six hours. Caused by heavy rainfall, they can occur when there are conditions that are drought-like as well.  

When floodwaters have entered into your home in Colbert, Otis Orchards, or Milan, SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is standing by to help. Call us immediately at (509) 474-9144 so we can make your home safe and dry again in no time.

Read more about Spokane here.

Is Water Creeping into Your Spokane Crawlspace?

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Crawlspaces are susceptible to flood damage. Inspect your crawlspace often for signs of water.

Long Term Solutions for Flooded Spokane Basements and Crawlspaces

As initially alarming as disasters like floods can be to your Spokane residence, restoring these effects is something better left to professionals like our certified technicians. Not only can you receive the assistance that you need to return your damaged property to its original condition, but you can also have the opportunity for long term solutions that can reduce the likelihood of recurrences in some cases. Our team works to exceed your expectations, and that begins with exceeding the parameters of traditional restoration work. 

While there are many pressing concerns with flood damage in your Spokane home, the more significant problem is the potential for this situation to occur again. Basements and crawlspaces are particularly susceptible to these types of damages, and without the measures taken to thwart water penetration, the flooding continues to occur. Our SERVPRO team can respond fast with effective mitigation and cleanup strategies, but also have long-term solutions available to help repair blockwork, concrete, drainage, water diversion, and also encapsulate the affected area if necessary.

Part of our commitment to our customers is providing honest assessments and evaluations about the damage done to their property when we first arrive. This inspection helps to determine the estimated cost of restoration, the personnel required to do it, and the equipment needed to get right to work. When it comes to lasting solutions that can reduce the possibility of future flooding, we rely on our competent contracting specialists to assess risks and offer repair and reconstruction strategies.

Approaches like crawlspace encapsulation can protect all of the frequently damp materials by covering them in 12mm plastic sheeting. The installation of water diversion equipment like sump pumps and drainage can also reduce the possibility of flooding. We determine which approach to use based on your wishes and understanding of the process, and what you think is best.

While many immediate threats accompany a flood in your home, every homeowner wants to take the necessary steps to help limit the damage these disasters can do. Give our SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane rapid response team a call today at (509) 474-9144.

Read more about Spokane here.

Cleaning Under Your Home After a Flood: Is It Necessary?

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

After a home flood, all most homeowners can think about is cleaning up and restoring the inside of their homes. Most never give a second thought to beneath their homes. Yet, some experts suggest that the failure to clean under a home after a flood could lead to mold, structural issues and costly damage. Some areas of your home to which you should pay attention during flood cleanup include the following:

• Basement
• Crawlspace
• Cellars

Your attention to these areas could prevent costly damage and headaches down the road.

Cleaning Your Basement

Even if your basement isn't an HGTV-worthy one, it's still a part of your home and therefore needs to be cleaned thoroughly after a home flood. If your basement is bare, it won't take your [City, State], restoration company very long to dry out the area, wipe down the surfaces and clean the air. However, if your basement is used as a storage area or an extension of your living space, cleanup efforts will be much more comprehensive.

Cleaning Your Crawlspace

Whether your crawlspace is indoors or out, you should check it for storm damage. If you discover wet materials, direct your restoration team to beneath your home and let them work magic. Again, depending on what your crawlspace is used for, restoration efforts could take mere hours, or it could take days.

Cleaning Your Cellar

Cellars are usually bare, but some contain canned and jarred foods and excess supplies. Unfortunately, if your cellar was contaminated by flood water, you should dispose of all food – airtight or not. If you eat contaminated food or use contaminated supplies, you could become sick. Unfortunately, the best thing you can do for your health and the health of your loved ones is to dispose of the food and restock your collection (after you disinfect all surfaces of the cellar).

If you're dealing with a home flood, reach out to your Spokane, WA, restoration company regarding tips on how to clean beneath your home. Let them help you restore your home.

Reasons To Purchase Interruption Insurance for Your Business

8/26/2018 (Permalink)

Natural disaster can occur anytime in your Spokane business

When a natural disaster or a plumbing problem renders your building in Spokane, WA, unusable for a period of time, you will want to have a plan in place for continuing your business while you rebuild. Property insurance may cover the actual damage recovery done by restoration experts, but you need business interruption insurance to cover lost revenue or the expenses associated with temporary relocation. Here are some reasons to purchase this additional policy.

Working Capital

Property insurance helps you cover the costs of water damage restoration. Additional coverage is needed for the myriad of other ways your business is impacted by a damaged building. Interruption insurance gives you working capital to handle continuity expenses:

• Lost revenue
• Utility payments
• Payroll coverage
• Relocation costs

You shouldn't have to worry about whether or not you will still have a business to run after you rebuild. Continuity coverage can give you the working capital you need to bridge the gap.

Ongoing Solution

Most problems that occur as the result of a storm are not quick fixes. You need coverage for problems that last longer than a few days. Your business interruption service can kick in as soon as 48 hours after your business experiences a loss due to stormy weather, but the payout can hold you over for an extended period of time.

Maintaining Momentum

Interruption insurance helps you maintain momentum and keep your business afloat. Many businesses without such coverage find it hard to recover after damages make it impossible to continue regular operations, and sometimes that results in a permanently closed business. Continuity coverage helps you keep going despite the difficulties that storm damage have caused.

As you rebuild, you shouldn't have to worry about whether or not your company will stay afloat. When you add an additional policy to your business owner's insurance portfolio that handles expenses associated with the interruption of your business, you can get peace of mind knowing that your income doesn't have to take a hit just because your building did.

For more on Spokane click here

Prevent Sewer Backups During Heavy Storms

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

In Spokane, WA and other areas of the country, heavy rains can lead to sewer backup problems and flooding. This leaves homeowners to deal with anywhere from an inch or two of contaminated water to several feet of black water in their home. This happens because public drain systems become overburdened with the excess rain water. It may also happen because of new developments in your area, the loss of grassy areas, and changes in weather patterns. What can you do?

• Discuss the possibility of plugging floor drains with a knowledgeable professional. Your plumber should know whether the drain has a purpose and whether plugging it will violate code.
• If you can't plug the drain, install check valves that prevent the backflow of water from the drain.
• Plumbing fixtures, such as basement toilets, must also be fitted with sewer check valves. Otherwise, the rising water levels will simply move from drains to toilets and sinks.
• Install a main house sewer valve. This backwater prevention valve is available in manual and automatic types and will protect your home from black water backing up from the public sewer. When this valve is closed, you won't be able to use your home's plumbing system until the flooding is resolved.
• Schedule routine visits from your plumber to inspect the underground house drain. During a sewer backup, the house drain may not be strong enough to withstand the steps you take to keep sewage out. Older pipes, porous pipe joints, and weakened pipe joints can all defeat the purpose of your preventative steps.
• Consider installing a sump pump. These pumps move water away from your home and are useful during heavy rain. Work with a professional to avoid code violations.
• Inspect the foundation and leaf gutters to be sure they direct water away from your home. The better you can direct water away from your home, the better your chances of avoiding the results of flooding.

These steps can help you avoid serious sewer backup. Learn more from a remediation professional in your area. Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on water damage

How Your Commercial Generator Works

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

You'll appreciate having a commercial generator every time the power goes out in Spokane, WA. These appliances provide the electricity you need to keep your business operational during massive storms and other causes of outages. For the best results, you need to understand how this appliance works before you face generator problems.

Components of the Backup Appliance

There are several components at work in this appliance:

• Engine
• Alternator
• Fuel system
• Cooling and exhaust
• Control panel
• Frame
• Voltage regulator
• Lubrication system
• Battery charger

Keep these parts in good working condition to be sure your temporary power source will kick in when your primary grid is out. You don't have to have a deep understanding of how each component works, but when you understand that the separate parts work together to convert mechanical energy to electric charges, you'll be better prepared to keep your generator in great working condition.

How It Works

Your generator may consist of a strong magnet and a moveable copper conductor. This "battery" creates an electromotive force, or mechanical energy. Modern appliances include electromagnets that rotate with conductors that wrap around the moving parts. Copper conductors carry high currents and are wound on stationary components. A rotating magnetic field interacts with the stationary conductors to create an electric current. An internal combustion engine may provide the force driving the rotation.

Keeping Everything in Working Condition

These appliances connect to a transmission grid. Commercial power sources must provide synchronized operation. Three characteristics affecting this are frequency, voltage, and phase. The most likely frequency in Spokane, WA is 60 Hz. Large appliances produce voltage at a rate of 20,000 volts. A business generator may output at 6000 volts, depending on the needs of the commercial property. Your appliance may produce 3-phase electric power; in other words, three separate circuits deliver consistent voltage and frequency. If any of these characteristics don't match the others or the transmission grid, the appliance could be seriously damaged. Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on storm damage

3 Safety Tips for Driving During a Flood

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding in Spokane, WA can be dangerous in many ways. Water can rise rapidly, and runoff can be powerful enough to sweep away large objects. If you are driving and find yourself on a flooded street, there are a few actions you can take to keep yourself safe until the danger passes.

1. Choose an Alternate Route

Flooded roads can present an immediate danger to motorists, and a flash flood can carry cars away in a matter of moments. If you are driving in heavy rain or during a flood watch and encounter flooded roads, it is wise to turn around and find an alternate route back to your home. Since the depth of flood waters can be hard to gauge, driving down a flooded street may cause your car to become trapped or swept away. If you cannot find an alternate route, exit your car and get to higher ground on foot. You may want to call a storm damage and restoration company when you get home to inquire about having your water-damaged car restored.

2. Do Not Panic

Keep a cool head when you encounter a flooded street. If the water is rising and you feel it is safer to exit your vehicle, do so calmly and ensure that your passengers are able to get out of the car without being knocked down by swift flood waters. Remaining composed and focusing on getting away from the flood can mean the difference between staying safe and disaster.

3. Obey Posted Road Signs

Flash floods can cause flooded roads in a matter of minutes. If you are driving in an area where flash flood warning signs are posted, be alert and watch for water, especially if it is raining in higher elevations. It is important that you do not disregard danger signs and stay aware of potential flooding if you are driving in an unfamiliar area.

Flooding in Spokane, WA can present many dangers when you are driving. However, keeping calm when you encounter a flooded street and knowing when to leave your vehicle may help you stay safe until flood waters recede. Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on storm damage.

Gutting a Home After a Flood

1/24/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding can be devastating. It can be destructive not only to the contents of a home, but the home itself. When you’re faced with damage from black water, you may have to gut your property. This means you might have to restore the walls and purchase new carpet, bedding and ceiling tiles. If your Spokane, WA home has been afflicted by a flood, these tips may help you.

1. Rugs, Bedding, Carpet and Clothing Must Go

Rugs, bedding, carpet and clothes cannot remain in a moist environment. If damaged in the flood, mold may grow in the porous material and contaminate it indefinitely. In that case, they need to be thrown out. However, if they aren’t damaged, you can put them outside or in a dry environment for safekeeping during the process.

2. A Flood Cut May Be Necessary

If you know anything about restoration after black water contamination, then you know that a flood cut may be performed. A flood cut is when flood repair specialists cut into drywall about 12 inches above the flood line and remove it. This is usually a last resort when the wall cannot be saved. Most specialists won’t want to tear out the wall if they don’t have to. However, with extensive mold damage, it’s better to take out the damaged wall.

3. Scrub Everything Else Clean

When you’re finished removing items, you can clean the rest of your residence before the full restoration process. Flooding can cause mold growth on nonporous surfaces. Often, these can be scrubbed clean with detergent and water. In some cases, you may need bleach, but always be careful about which chemicals you mix.

No one wants to have to gut their home after a flood. However, it’s important to make sure there are no other signs of contamination before it can be livable again. If you’ve experienced flooding, it’s best to get rid of the problem materials instead of risking mounting issues. Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on storm damage.

What To Expect From Your Storm Damage Restoration Team

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

What To Expect From Your Storm Damage Restoration Team

If your Spokane, Washington building has suffered serious water damage after a particularly trying snow or rainstorm, call in the help of a professional storm remediation team. You should not attempt to tear out and restore your building and its contents on your own, as you do not know what risks the water or the building itself poses. To ensure a safe and speedy recovery, hire a water remediation team that knows how to safely and effectively handle the situation.

A professional storm restoration company has set procedures in place for dealing with water and flood damage. You can expect the team to inspect the building and use the following methods for bringing your property back to good health.

Extract the Water

First and foremost, the damage restoration technicians will extract the water from your property. To do this quickly and effectively, the team may use submersible pumps and wet/dry vacuums. The water extraction process helps reduce drying time and prevent additional damage caused by sitting water.

Tear Out Wet Materials

Once all of the water is removed from the building, the company will then remove all wet materials. This can include furniture, equipment and documents, but it may also include wet carpet, rotted floor boards and any other easily removable structural components.

Dry All Structures

Once all of the wet materials have been removed, the team will begin the drying process. They will use dehumidifiers to evaporate any moisture that remains in the floorboards, carpet, walls and cement.

Restore the Building

Finally, once your building is dry and free from water, the team will clean and sanitize everything, and then make whatever repairs are necessary to bring your building back to pre-flood condition. This process may include moving you out of the building and boarding it up until it is habitable.

If your building was severely damaged in a storm, let a water remediation team in Spokane, Washington take over. They can help tear out all the wet materials and bring your property back to like-new condition in a safe and swift manner. Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on storm damage.

Restoring Your Home Back to Normal

11/3/2017 (Permalink)

Restoring Your Home Back to Normal

After suffering from a fire in your home or a fire in your business, you need to take the proper steps to restore your home or commercial building back to normal. This definitely is not something you should do yourself. Instead, you should rely on a professional restoration company to take care of your residential or commercial fire damage.

You should not let the fire damage get worse by letting it go untreated. Do not wait a long time after the fire in your home or the fire in your business occurs. In addition, you really should not enter the home before calling the restoration company. There may be hazards. The structure may be unsafe, and walls or ceilings may be about to cave in. There may be broken pieces of glass.

The first thing the restoration company will want to do is take a walk throughout your home. They will look for the cause of the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They will want to understand the extent of the residential fire damage or commercial fire damage. They will plan a strategy for the restoration of your home.

The next thing the fire damage restoration service will likely do is board up your home. You need to cover all the holes in the walls of your home and the ceiling of your home by boarding up those holes. Holes can appear if the fire burnt away a large section of the wall. Firefighters sometimes break open holes in the walls in order to make sure that no fire is left in between the walls. In addition, they may shatter windows.

After boarding up the holes and broken windows, the fire damage restoration service will likely start dealing with the water damage, which is an essential part of the fire cleanup process. It is likely that during the process of putting out the fire, your walls and furniture were drenched with water and suffered heavy water damage. The fire damage restoration company can pump out all the water and remove the excess moisture.

After boarding up the holes and cleaning out the water, the next step of the fire cleanup process usually involves taking care of the soot damage and the smoke damage, as well as the smoke smell that probably permeates your home or business. Soot damage and smoke damage are common, and include not just a smoke smell, but blackened walls and blackened furniture. To remove the smoke smell, the HVAC system will have to be cleaned of any soot. To clean up the soot damage and smoke damage from your furniture and walls, special equipment will need to be used. The smoke smell will not go away before this happens.

The fire cleanup company will then start repairing the structure of your home. The fire cleanup company will remove burnt parts of your walls and ceiling that are no longer capable of supporting the structure of your home. They will replace them with new boards and beams. The commercial fire damage and fire restoration company will also repaint your home. This is so that the new boards and beams fit in. It will also make your home look better after the soot damage and smoke damage. They may install new wallpaper as well, if you so wish.

The fire damage company will also give you advice on how to prevent further fires. They may help you out with your fire sprinkler system and make sure that it is working. The fire damage restoration company will also help you renovate your home. In the end, your home or commercial building will look not just restored, but may very well look better than it did before the residential fire damage or commercial fire damage.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on fire damage.

Get Professional Help When Storm Damage Strikes

11/3/2017 (Permalink)


Get Professional Help When Storm Damage Strikes

When you are the victim of storm damage, it can turn your whole world upside down. Storm damage can come from many sources. You could find that your home has been negatively affected by river flooding, flooding, wind damage, hail damage, hurricane damage, or ice damage. Regardless of what type of damage nature brings down on your home, you will need storm remediation. As you consider the extent of the storm damage and the water restoration or home restoration that needs to be done, it can be extremely overwhelming. As ground water or flood water rises, it can wreak havoc on your basement. Ice damming is a major issue during winter storms. When an ice dam forms, you are likely to have roof damage. A roof leak of any kind is going to require roof repair. Frozen pipes are par for the course during the coldest times of the year. No matter what has happened to your home, home restoration is going to be a major project. You're going to need more than a flood pump to get your home back in order again. When you need home restoration services, contact your professional storm damage restoration team.

This is Not a Do-it-Yourself Project

You know that you need storm remediation. Don't even consider trying to go it alone. You will be biting off more than you can chew. When you call in a professional storm damage restoration crew, you can rest assured that you are in good hands as you turn to people who are highly trained to deal with every type of storm damage and provide services for storm remediation. They can cut your storm restoration needs down to size. The first step is to make the call once the damage is done and conditions are safe to get to work on your home.

Assess the Damages

Your team of storm restoration professionals will begin with a thorough evaluation of your home. They will assess any roof damage that has taken place, whether it is due to hurricane damage, wind damage, hail damage, or ice damming. If ice damming is an issue, it will be a priority to clear out any type of ice dam that remains. An ice dam can cause a roof leak on your home. When an ice dam builds up, the weight of the ice is a major issue as well. Ice damming is typical after severe storms in the winter. When roof damage includes a roof leak, whether it is a minor leak or a major leak, roof repair services will be in order. Your professional storm restoration team will be able to handle any roof repair issues. Additional ice damage could occur at the opposite end of the house when you have frozen pipes in the basement. Frozen pipes can lead to flooding. Flooding of any sort can cause considerable damage. A flood pump can help you to eliminate the problem of water in your basement, but you are likely to need an industrial-strength flood pump when ground water or flood water overwhelms your basement. Your storm restoration team will look at all of the damage that has hit your home from flooding or river flooding after hurricane damage has thrown you for a tailspin. Wind damage, hail damage, or ice damage can all be considerable, but your professional storm restoration team can handle any type of storm remediation.

Restoring Your Home

Once the professionals know the full extent of the damages to your home, whether you have experienced river flooding, flooding, ice damage, wind damage, hail damage, hurricane damage, roof damage, or frozen pipes, the home restoration process will begin. Water restoration is one of the most common services when flood water or ground water rise to destructive levels in your home. In order for water restoration to be completed, the ground water or flood water must be removed completely. A flood pump can achieve this goal. Once the water has been eliminated, whether it was from river flooding or any other source, a thorough drying process must be completed. Once all surfaces are dry, they must be sanitized and disinfected. Finally, any repairs can be made. New flooring or carpeting can be installed. The roof will be another area of focus as any roof leak is handled efficiently. Hail damage, wind damage, and hurricane damage are likely to result in a roof repair job, but your professionals can handle it. When all is said and done, water restoration and complete home restoration is possible for you when you have professionals on your side.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on storm damage.

Why You will Need Professional Storm Damage Restoration after a Storm

9/27/2017 (Permalink)


Why You will Need Professional Storm Damage Restoration after a Storm

Storms happen without warning causing severe destruction of property. Strong winds and flooding can cause damage to your home and business alike. As a property owner, you must deal with wind damage, flooding damage, hurricane damage, hail damage, and ice damage that are occasioned by the occurrence of a storm. All these events usually result in an expensive water damage. Water damage, especially from a storm, can be devastating. It can cause flooding, river flooding, and a rise in ground water levels. Flood water can cause serious property damage if it is not cleared and remediated fast enough. Under these circumstances, you will possibly need home restoration services and strategies to storm remediation.

Storm damage may also refer to the destruction resulting from strong winds. Additionally, a storm damage can also involve a hurricane, hailstorm, and even a snowstorm. As such, the storm restoration process might involve managing ground water seepage, ice damage, water damage, hurricane damage, ice damming, river flooding, and wind damage restoration with other various services intertwined.

If you are looking for storm restoration services, it is important to look for a professional company that has a reputation of providing comprehensive home restoration services, repairs, and advice on storm remediation.

What to Do After Storm Damage On Your Home
Safety first
Ensure you and your family is safe. Down the electricity and power lines and call your utility company.

Assess the damage
Roof damage is the most probable event in a storm. Evaluate it for roof damage, roof leak, and ice dams. Also, assess the flood water level in your home, ice damming level, water damage on your walls, frozen pipes, and the flooding around your compound.

Common features of roof damage to check on are;
• Broken or cracked tiles or slate
• Roof leak
• Dents on gutters and vents
• Split seams
• Holes
• Ice dams

Doors and windows are generally susceptible to wind damage, hurricane damage, and in-flight debris. Subsequently, inspect cracks, holes, glass shards, damaged door, and window frames. A professional damage restoration service provider can help you assess and estimate the restoration costs.

The Process of Storm Restoration
After assessment of the damage, a suitable restoration plan is hatched. Damage caused by a storm can run deep and not easy to unravel. However, a professional company can figure out by use of devices to probe and find out the affected areas. The first step of storm restoration is to clear and remove all the debris brought to your home during the storm. To avoid further wind damage and ice damage, the restoration crew will move to reinforce the weak structural walls and roof of the affected house helping it withstand ice dams and strong winds.

After these, a number of processes and services are undertaken. They include:
Water restoration and water removal using a flood pump
Water restoration is important if flood water found its way into your home causing flooding. Flood water can be as a result of heavy rains, river flooding, ground water, or burst frozen pipes. This flooding water can be removed by a flood pump. Stagnating water also need to be removed quickly using a flood pump to avoid growth of molds.

Hail damage restoration
In addition to water restoration, the hail damage restoration may also entail ice damage restoration. Hail storm can result in ice damming in your home. A professional company can remove the ice dams around and in your home by using effective equipment designed for this process. They can also fix the ice damage that follows a storm.

Roof repair
Roof repair is among the most common home restoration services needed after a storm. Roof damage can be caused by strong winds or a hurricane damage. Without repairing the roof, water restoration in the house will be in vain. Heavy hail damage and heavy rains can cause flat roofs to sink or cause seepage and a roof leak. Therefore, roof repairs entail not only sealing the roof but also reinstalling new tiles and reinforcing the roofing frames. Gutters and frozen pipes damaged from ice damming also need to be repaired.

Storm Remediation.
Any home restoration process after a storm ends with a storm remediation. This is done to avoid storm damage completely. You can do this by maintaining regular roof repair to avoid a roof leak that can enhance roof damage during the storm, fixing frozen pipes, and fixing windows and doors that are commonly affected by a storm. You will also need to stay updated on weather warnings and ensure your doors and windows are closed during a storm to avoid flood water coming into your home. You can also make trenches or install a flood pump around you home to prevent water from a river flooding from entering into your home. These trenches can also drain ground water away from your home.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on storm damage.

Storm Damage in Spokane

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage can ruin the value of a Spokane Valley home. 


To stop this, you need to take the proper precautions. To help, below are a few strategies you can use to protect your house from water damage.



Use Floor Pans
A floor pan is a pan that is placed underneath an appliance to catch water. For example, you could place one underneath the pipes of a sink. This may not seem very useful since a major leak will overflow the pan. However, this doesn’t take into account that many leaks that cause damage come in form of small drops over a long period of time. A floor pan could prevent this damage. Finding water in the pan could also alert you of a leak you weren’t aware of.


Purchase Water Damage Insurance
Another way to protect your home is by purchasing water damage insurance. This kind of insurance will help pay for the costs of repairs to a home after significant water damage. While it may not prevent the physical damage from occurring, it will help prevent the financial turmoil that can be caused by such an event. If your home is in a location that is susceptible to flooding, you should certainly purchase this kind of insurance.


Make Sure You Can Stop the Water
There may be instances where a major plumbing issue suddenly causes a significant leak inside your home. For example, a pipe may burst and begin flooding rooms with water. While it may be too late to stop to the pipe from bursting, you can still mitigate the damage by halting the water flow. You can do this using the main water shut off valve. Make sure you know where the shut off valve is located. You should also test it to make sure you can operate it properly in case of an emergency.


Overall, to protect your home from water damage, you need to be proactive. You can do this by routinely checking for leaks, purchasing insurance, installing safety guards and making sure you know what to do if a major leak does occur.

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. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane. 

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is a 24/7 emergency water removal & flood clean up repair service company. If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today 24/7 (509) 474-9144! 

Water Damage to a Spokane Home Needs Professional Assistance

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage to a Spokane Home Needs Professional Assistance

When a flood or fire does substantive water damage to your residential property in Spokane, it's important for you to restore its aesthetic appeal, functionality, and safety as quickly as possible. In most cases, attaining professional services from a team of trained water damage specialists is the best way to realize these objectives. Water damage specialists from SERVPRO possess the level of expertise and experience necessary to clean and restore your home following a flood or fire. To determine why obtaining their professional services would be appropriate and ideal for you, consider the following information: 

Cleaning and Repair Services

Water damage specialists like SERVPRO are effective in offering clients cleaning, repairing and restoring services. To begin the process, the specialists will complete a water damage assessment. This assessment will help them discern the extent of damage done to your property. Once they attain this information, the remediation technicians will know which equipment to utilize for the restoration process. They will also know how many contractors will be required to work on the project to get the job done quickly and effectively. By working in teams, remediation specialists can prevent the onset of mold growth as a result of secondary water damage. Additionally, the remediation specialists can work quickly to ensure that you can move back into your home as soon as possible. 

Restoration Services

Part of the important service provided by SERVPRO is restoration. Restoration services are designed to expedite returning your living space to its original condition quickly. Regardless of the specific repairs made to your home, this full-service restoration company can handle them. Restoring rather than replacing when possible, will also lighten the financial burden of this water damage event.  You can focus on other matters such as working with your insurance company. SERVPRO can aid in the management of the insurance paperwork and process. 

Get Great Remediation Services Now 

Witnessing a flood or fire wreak havoc to your home can be disheartening, but help is available. A professional water damage restoration company is effective in providing you with the speedy, savvy remediation services necessary to restore your property and help you to regain a sense of peace. As a leader in the remediation industry, SERVPRO would be delighted to assist you with the restoration process. Our technicians are trained, tenacious, and committed to maintaining the team mentality necessary to get the job done quickly. Contact one of our representatives today and let's get your home in working order.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a water or flooding emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Spokane community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

Water damage restoration is a cornerstone of our business.  Call us for an immediate response. (509) 474-9144

Fire Damage Restoration Tips

8/21/2017 (Permalink)


Fire Damage Restoration Tips

Any instance of commercial fire damage to residential or business properties often leaves homeowners overwhelmed, confused, and frustrated. Apart from fires being deadly, they can cause expensive and extensive commercial fire damage to property. If you are a property, business, or homeowner, it is essential that you be familiar with knowledge regarding fire damage restoration and fire board up service offered by professional restoration companies. Armed with this knowledge you are in a better position to recover from catastrophic fire tragedies. You can choose to personally conduct fire damage restoration of your home or contract the services of a professional restoration company. So, read on for tips to help you rebound from any commercial fire damage.

Tip # 1: Addressing Soot Damage

Fires inflict a significant amount of damage to your walls, wallpaper, and paint. It is possible to get soot stains from your wall where commercial fire damage was not severe. Typically, you commence this fire cleanup process from your walls and expanding to other affected areas of your property. This involves getting rid of the visible black residue that gets left over after a fire. Before attempting any fire cleanup exercise, ensure that the room is well ventilated by opening all the windows and having fans running within your work area. Spread a drop cloth, tarpaulin on the floor or board up your home to avoid transferring soot stains to your flooring or carpet.

Walls: a majority of fire damage restoration activities begin with the fire cleanup of soot from the walls. You can use a vacuum cleaner to clean fire residue from your walls. In addition to using a vacuum cleaner, you can employ dry chemical sponges. These sponges have a chemical substrate that dissolves smoke and soot damage from your walls. Use a chemical sponge to wipe soot stains until it is saturated. Rinse the sponge after its complete saturation, allowing it to air dry, and repeat this process to clean the effects of fire damage.

Trisodium Phosphate (TSP): this is another useful cleaning solution for removing soot stains from your walls. Despite TSP being a powerful fire cleanup agent, cleaning soot residue from your wall requires time and effort. Ensure that you obtain and don the necessary protective gear. Add one tablespoonful of TSP into one gallon of water in a bucket. Dip a sponge into this solution and use it to wipe your walls one location after the other. Cleanse your rag in warm water after you are through with cleaning every section. Repeat the process until you walls are clean from soot damage. Ensure that no water seeps into your baseboards or walls as well as avoid over-saturating your walls.

Tip # 2: Restoring Your Smoke Damaged Walls

After removing soot from your walls, you will still need to get rid of any lingering smoke damage. Smoke damages your walls at the molecular level. So, expect to have a strong and smoke smell after any incidence of fire in home or fire in business despite the lack of any visible smoke damage to your walls. Varieties of home remedies are available to eliminate lingering smoke smell and smoke damage from fire in home or fire in business. Use the steps described below to treat smoke damage and fire damage on your walls.

Tip # 3: Get Professional Fire Restoration Assistance

If firefighters used fire hoses, hiring a professional fire damage restoration company is the only best option to get rid of the effects fire in home or fire in business property. A restoration company may use industrial humidifiers, board up your house, and fans to dry affected sections preventing mold growth. You can find a reputable restoration company from your local directory or by a simple online search. For fire in home or fire in business risks posed by a combination of fire, water, and molding, contracting the services of a professional restoration company is an efficient way of fixing fire damage caused to your property. Professional restoration company can get rid of most, if not all, soot damage, smoke smell, fire damage, and smoke damage to your property as well as eliminating the presence of smoke smell. Additionally, a restoration company can provide other support services in the future for example property board up.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on fire damage.

When a Spokane flood takes over your home, it can be just as devastating as a fire or a tornado.

6/15/2017 (Permalink)

When a Spokane flood takes over your home, it can be just as devastating as a fire or a tornado.


Valuable photos, furniture, clothing, musical instruments, electronics, valuable rugs and so much more can all be ruined by the powers of flooding and Spokane Valley water damage due to heavy rain. You may think, "well, if it happens, it happens - there's not much I can do about it." With the idea that “It will never happen to me” That's where you're wrong. Although man can't always completely protect himself from nature's catastrophes, there are definitely a few preventative measures that can be taken against rain water flooding. Here are a few.

Regularly Inspect Your Roof: Periodically examining your roof is a sure-fire way to prevent roof leaks and water damage, which can cause floods during heavy rain. Carefully climb a ladder and examine each side of the roof slope for scarring, broken, or loose shingles. If you notice these blemishes, your roof suffers some damage. Nevertheless, a few blemishes every once in a while are nothing to be worried about. You should also examine the color of your roof. Black asphalt shingles that have turned brownish, have seen better days. It's time to replace them. 

Get Regular Roofing Maintenance: Once you've noticed that your roof has holes in it, or that your shingles have turned a color other than black, it might be time for your roof to be worked on by professionals. Whether or not your roof is damaged, it's vital that it receives yearly maintenance from a roofing contractor. In fact, if roofing contractors perform annual maintenance, you may not need to periodically examine it so much, yourself. Still, we understand that a yearly visit from your local roofing contractor might be a costly expense for you. In this case, you can certainly do the inspection yourself, but if you notice any problems, you ought to call a professional, immediately.

Stack Up Sandbags: You may think that this is a very excessive measure, but when heavy rains are about to hit, there's really no measure not worth taking to protect your home and your family from flooding and water damage. Stack up several sandbags against doorways and windows. This stacking will create pressure and act as a wall against the incoming H20.

Install Flood-Detection Technology: Computer systems do so much these days, it's unreal. We can talk to anyone in the world with the touch of a few buttons, or a few clicks of a mouse - why can't home computer systems keep you safe from flooding? They can. These high-tech devices call your phone or sound an alarm if they sense any water. They are typically set up in basements, but you can arrange to have them anywhere in your home. These devices, in themselves, might not prevent flooding damage, but they can certainly warn you when it's on its way, so that you can take proper action to curb things before it gets out of control.

Install Standpipes Or Backflow Valves: One of the biggest reasons why your home suffers water damage during heavy rain isn't always the rain itself - it's when less-than-advanced piping systems react, (or fail to react) to the flooding. By equipping your home with backflow valves and standpipes, your sewer lines won't be so backed up, and in turn, the flooding won't be so out of control.

Call A Water Removal Professional, Today: Has your home been ravaged in the wake of a terrible rain storm? Are you wading ankle-deep in water on your kitchen floor? You're going to need the help of a water removal expert. You can do all you want to get rid of the water, but if you don't have the right technology and the in-depth know-how, it's not all going to go away. Call an expert today, before you get in too deep.

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is a 24/7 emergency water removal & flood clean up repair service company, Our technicians are highly trained and experienced with every water damage situation. 

SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane proudly serves Spokane, Colbert, Chattaroy, Spokane Valley, Mead, and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure caused by:

Water Loss in Spokane, Washington

2/21/2017 (Permalink)

Water Loss in Spokane, WA.

Water Loss in Spokane, Washington


There are a lot of circumstances that contribute to how extensive water damage can be to a home or a business. Most people would consider the volume of the water involved in water damage that determines how much water loss a building incurs, but there are many contributing factors to the damage that is actually sustained. Beyond volume, the type of water determines the extensiveness and consequently, the expense of the cleanup.


The extent of the damage also determines how long it requires to remediate the issues, and this factor is one of the most consequential because the length of a family’s stay away from their home or in inconvenience if they are able to stay, or the length of time a business cannot operate multiplies the extent of the damage greatly. Clean water cleanup requires only remediation, but gray and sewer infested water will require many more steps to return building to an inhabitable state. Clean water and water with sewage are well known, but the lesser known gray water is considered the water that comes from draining washing machines, sinks, or tubs. In the case of sewage and gray water, volume absolutely affects the extent of the damage much more than if a large volume of clean water impacts a home or business.


Gray water is very damaging to a home and requires extensive cleanup and minor disinfection and because the drying step is a disinfectant in itself also, gray water s an issues that is often mitigated because devices that contain gray water are often limited in the volume that escapes. However, flood water could sometimes be considered gray, but in a very limited scope because outside flood water from natural disasters in Spokane Washington that is not infested with sewage is rare, but still may contain other very caustic components that often requires as much cleanup almost as water containing sewage.


Water in homes or water in a business containing sewage is the worst damage that can be sustained to a home or building in Spokane, Washington. In this type of damage, every part of a cleanup is more urgent and has to be not only more thorough, but also involves many more steps with most of the added steps being disinfectant and deodorizing steps by the restoration companies. However, in any of these types of water in a home or water in a business, mitigation and drying is key, but this is especially true with gray and water damage involving sewage. Mitigation is the act of stemming the damage by eliminating the source of the problem, and starting the process of remediating the water loss.


This is important in damage cleanup by restoration companies because failing to cleanup or solve the initial problem immediately will cause the problem to worsen exponentially everyday the cleanup or initial mitigation is not engaged. This is so important, many insurance policies mandate that it takes place immediately and as a responsibility of the policyholder. Additionally, natural disasters like flood damage is not normally covered by common homeowner’s insurance policies. So that families, individuals and business owners will have the means to employ water cleanup in their buildings if flood damage like this occurs, people should check their policies. Visit http://www.SERVPROnortheastspokane.com for more information on water loss.

Spokane Flood Damage - Dealing with Flood Damage Repair and Cleanup

1/15/2015 (Permalink)

Flood damage can be overwhelming, but these tips can walk you through the process of cleaning up.

No one wants to have to deal with a flood.

Unfortunately, freezing pipes and heavy snowstorms lead to a lot of flooding this time of year. If you experience a flood, it is important to know exactly what to do. Repairing and cleaning up damages will not be easy no matter what, but there are some ways to simplify the process. Here are some steps to take after a flood.

Turn Off Water and Electricity

The first thing you want to do is to turn off the water and electricity in your home. Make sure you know where the main switch and water valve are. Standing water is extremely dangerous if it comes in contact with an electric current, so before you touch it or do anything else, make sure these components in your home are turned off.


Assess the Damage

Once the electricity and water are turned off and you have determined it is safe to work, you need to assess the damage. Take pictures and write everything down that is ruined or needs to be repaired or replaced. Call your insurance company immediately so you know what you need to do to file a claim. An agent may need to come out to assess the damage. You don't want to clean up before they do, or you may have trouble getting repairs covered.


Remove the Water

The next step is to remove the water from the space. This may be through a reverse pump or the old fashioned bucket line. Either way, as soon as you get the green light from the insurance company, you need to remove the water in Spokane as soon as possible. The longer it stands there the more damage it will do.


Dry Up the Space

Once the water is removed, you need to soak up and dry all the excess water from the floors, walls, furniture, and belongings. A professional flood recovery company in Spokane may need to be called in. Remove all the furniture, and place it outside or in the garage where it can air out. Throw away anything that is damaged and won?t dry. Pull up carpet if necessary and discard.


Air it Out

After you've removed and dried everything you can remove and dry, you need to use industrial fans to air the space out. Otherwise, Spoakne mold and mildew can develop. Open windows and doors and let the fans run for a few days to clear everything out.

Fix it Up

After the area is completely dry, you need to complete repairs. Don't do anything in which you are not professionally trained. Depending on how long the water stood, you may have some structural damage in your walls that will need to be fixed. Repaint, replace carpet and fix everything that needs repairs. Hopefully, your insurance company will cover most of the cost.


Dealing with a flood is never pleasant, but the important thing is to keep a cool head. Remain calm and go through these steps. Before you know it, the flood will be a distant memory and your home will be back to normal.


SERVPRO of Northeast Spokane is locally owned and operated and serves Spokane, Colbert, Chattaroy, Spokane Valley, Mead, and surrounding areas. Water comes from everywhere and our certified technicians can clean and dry any flood better than its original state. * 24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Service * 24/7 Flood Damage & Water Damage Service * 24/7 Sewage Damage & Sewage Removal Service * 24/7 Mold Remediation *24/7 Bio-hazard Suicide Clean *24/7 Fire Window Roof Board-up


If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today!


Call us at 24/7 at (509) 474-9144