Recent Posts
National Fire Prevention Month
10/3/2024 (Permalink)
After an unattended oven caught fire, SERVPRO Team Davis was called in for fire restoration and reconstruction services.
As temperatures begin to drop and winter weather rolls in to the Lehigh Valley, SERVPRO Team Davis will begin to see an uptick in fire restoration services being required. Why is that? According to the National Fire Prevention Association, there is an increase in fires during winter months due to heating, cooking, and electrical-related issues. Find out more information below on the causes of fires, prevention steps, and why calling SERVPRO after a fire is crucial to restoring and rebuilding your home or business!
How Does Team Davis Restore Your Property Faster?
At SERVPRO Team Davis, we believe we can make any property damage in the Lehigh Valley "Like It Never Even Happened!"
How does our team accomplish that? Check out the steps in our fire restoration process:
- 24/7 Emergency Contact
- Inspection and Assessment
- Board-Ups and Roof Tarping
- Water Removal and Drying
- Removal of Smoke and Soot
- Surface and Content Cleaning
- Rebuilding and Repairs
Getting your business reopened or your family back into their home faster is what motivates our restoration experts. Full-service cleaning, restoration, and construction all with one call to SERVPRO Team Davis. Call or text us 24/7 for any of your fire, water, or mold-related restoration needs!
610-559-9380
Preventing Frozen Pipe Bursts
1/15/2024 (Permalink)
One of the most common reasons why pipes burst is due to freezing conditions.
After a mild December, the Lehigh Valley is preparing for a very cold January as a polar vortex approaches. On top of snow and ice, freezing temperatures pose a very serious threat for commercial and residential property owners.
Pipe bursts are very frequent during these frigid times, as the water in pipes begins to freeze and expand, leading to unexpected water damage.
Luckily, SERVPRO Team Davis has the tips you need to help prevent your pipes from rupturing.
- Insulation.
- Insulating exposed pipes with foam sleeves or wraps is an effective way to keep pipes from freezing.
- Seal Air Leaks.
- Walking your property and ensuring potential air leaks from windows, doors, or ventilation fans are properly sealed is a great way to stop cold air from reaching your pipes.
- Let Faucets Drip.
- Running a small amount of water through your pipes is a common way of helping prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
If your commercial or residential property suffers from winter storm related damage, give the highly trained restoration technicians at SERVPRO Team Davis a call!
610-559-9380
What can an Emergency Ready Plan do for you?
1/15/2024 (Permalink)
An Emergency Ready Plan can help your team stay ahead of unexpected property damage.
What is an ERP and how can it help your business?
An Emergency Ready Plan, or ERP, is a SERVPRO Team Davis tool that helps businesses in the Lehigh Valley prepare for potential water or fire damage. An ERP also helps us minimize the damage to your property and restore your business back to the way it was faster.
What are the benefits of an ERP?
An ERP comes with many benefits for property owners such as:
- No cost facility-wide walkthrough and assessment.
- A concise document and downloadable/shareable app that contains vital information that can help save time and money during a crisis.
- Quick references to shut off valve locations, work authorization, priority contact information, authorized areas, and more.
- Establishes SERVPRO Team Davis as your trusted restoration specialists.
- Helps manage the insurance claim process for a quicker and easier experience.
Call SERVPRO Team Davis today at 610-559-9380 for more information on setting up an Emergency Ready Plan for your business!
SERVPRO® Team Davis Gets Back to School Faster!
9/13/2023 (Permalink)
Patrick, a Team Davis technician, extracting water from a Pre-School classroom rug after overnight water damage caused from a leak.
As we continue to progress through another September, it's time to embark upon a new school year. However, the last thing you want is for flooding to ruin your back-to-school process.
That's where SERVPRO® Team Davis comes in. As the premier cleaning, restoration, and reconstruction company in the Lehigh Valley, we're here to help ensure that your school is ready for students and staff alike. Whether you need water damage restoration, carpet cleanings, or mold remediation, our mitigation and reconstruction teams have the expertise and equipment to get the job done quickly and efficiently, truly making your disaster "Like it never even happened."
Don't let flooding put a damper on your back-to-school plans - contact SERVPRO® Team Davis today by call or text at 610-559-9380.
What to Do Until SERVPRO Team Davis Arrives
1/12/2023 (Permalink)
Fire related disasters can lead to serious soot buildup and smoke damage.
Fire & Smoke Damage in the Lehigh Valley
Has your residential or commercial property been impacted by fire or smoke damage? SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is on the way! However, until we arrive, there are some very important steps that you should follow to maximize the chances of a successful restoration.
DO:
- Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can cause more soil damage to walls, woodwork, and upholstery.
- Limit movement inside affected area to prevent further embedding of soot particles into upholstery and carpet.
- Place dry towels or old linens on top of upholstery, rugs, and carpeted areas.
- Remove soot from any chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, appliances, and trim. Then apply a light layer of lubricant to protect these surfaces.
DON'T:
- Attempt to wash any walls or shampoo any carpeted areas without first reaching out to SERVPRO Team Davis.
- Consume any food or beverages stored near the affected area, as they may be contaminated.
- Attempt to clean any electrical appliances, like television sets, that may have been within range of fire or smoke.
- Send clothing or garments to be dry cleaned. Improper cleaning may lead to smoke odor being set in the garments.
Following these crucial tips will help prevent further damage to your residence and personal belonging, and will allow the highly-trained technicians of SERVPRO Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall to make your disaster like it never even happened.
If You Experience a Fire Related Disaster, Contact Us 24/7 at 610-559-9380
How to Prepare for Nasty Winter Weather
1/12/2023 (Permalink)
Winter weather in the Lehigh Valley can cause frozen pipes, ice dams, and puffbacks, leading to serious property damage.
Winter Weather in the Lehigh Valley Can Catch You Off Guard and Cause Serious Problems
Pennsylvania residents are far too familiar with the unpredictable, unexpected nature of winter weather in the area. One day the temperature could be 50 degrees and hope that spring will arrive soon is strong. Then a massive, unexpected winter storm can arrive, leaving a large trail of disaster behind it.
Frozen pipes, puffbacks, and ice dams can all cause serious damage to your residential or commercial property. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall has professional advice for preparing your home or business for winter storms.
Preparing Your Home for Winter Weather
- Open cabinet doors during cold spells to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- Maintain a slow trickle of water flowing from faucets, especially if these pipes run through unheated areas of your home.
- To reduce the risk of puffbacks, ensure routine, proper maintenance of your furnace.
- Avoid ice dams and water damage by making sure gutters are clean of leaves and debris and secure to withstand winter weather.
Preparing Your Business for Winter Weather
- Inspect all stairwells, handrails, and entryways to identify potential slippery and hazardous locations.
- Ensure proper drainage to alleviate the potential of flood damage by inspecting property areas like walkways and parking lots.
- Check your commercial property for fallen tree limbs and branches. Winter weather like wind, snow, heavy rain, and ice can cause branches to fall, leading to potentially serious property or personal injuries.
- Contact SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall to start an Emergency Ready Profile for your business.
When Winter Weather Strikes... Strike Back with SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall.
24/7/365 Coverage For Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall
1/11/2023 (Permalink)
Our dedicated team is ready to make any size disaster "Like it never even happened." with our 24/7/365 service.
SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, & Whitehall provides around the clock service and is faster to any and all disasters across the Lehigh Valley. Our highly-trained and dedicated staff is equipped to handle your cleaning, restoration, and reconstruction needs.
Questions? Call Us 24/7 at 610-559-9380
Residential Coverage
You can depend on SERVPRO Team Davis to handle any emergencies that your Easton, Bethlehem, or Whitehall home may face. Our crew of production technicians are extensively trained in the best cleaning and restoration practices to ensure your property will be back to new as soon as possible. Our residential services include:
- Fire, Smoke, and Soot
- Water Removal and Dehumidification
- Mold Remediation
- Move Outs and Content Restoration
- Deodorization
- And More!
Learn more about our residential restoration services by visiting our website at: https://www.SERVPRO.com/locations/pa/SERVPRO-of-easton-bethlehem-and-whitehall
Why Water Damage Repair Is Needed After A Fire
8/14/2022 (Permalink)
Blog Summary: This article by SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall explains why water damage repair may be necessary after a fire.
A fire is a disaster that happens in an instant. However, it can lead to damages and devastation that have long-term effects. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a home fire occurs every 89 seconds in the USA. Local fire departments are reported to have responded to 1,338, 500 fires across the country in 2020. 3,500 civilian deaths and $21.9 billion of property damage resulted from these fires.
Fires result in cosmetic and structural damage to buildings. Homes may be unsafe to be in after a fire until fire damage restoration is complete. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is a fire and water damage restoration company that is locally owned and operated, but with a national presence. This company has a network of franchises and is proud to serve several local communities including Whitehall, PA. In this article SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall explains why water damage repair may be needed after a fire. It is common to require water damage repair after a fire. In the aftermath of a fire, water is usually used to put out the fire. This water helps limit fire damage but necessitates water damage repair.
Water Damage After A Fire
How much water damage occurs after a fire is dependent on how severe the fire was and where water was needed to put the fire out. It is important that the entire home or building be inspected for both fire and water damage. The cleanup process after a fire also needs water. Irrespective of high-pressure hoses being used to extinguish a fire or a less destructive home sprinkler system being operated during a fire, there can be extensive water damage that needs water damage repair after a fire.
What Type Of Water Damage Is Found After A Fire
Drywall
Even if drywall is left standing after a fire, it can soak up water used after a fire. It can become swollen, soft, and weak after exposure to water. Moisture can lead to mold growth in the drywall. Fire and water damage may not suffice and drywall may need to be replaced. Water damage repair experts can help to determine if any parts of drywall can be dried and reused. They will remove and replace the remaining drywall.
Flooring and Carpet
Water can cause severe damage to floors if it is not dealt with soon enough. Wood can absorb water and warp, swell, or buckle. Hardwood floors can be affected by water damage. When moisture is left untreated on the floor for long, mold growth can also occur.
Water can collect beneath carpets. Sometimes carpets may be dried and disinfected and used. But very frequently, carpets may need to be discarded. This is because carpets can retain toxic substances after water damage. Moist carpets can also be an ideal place for mold growth. Inspecting and deciding if carpets can be salvaged and getting them dried and cleaned can be time-consuming. It is much easier if this is done by water damage repair specialists with the experience and skills to do so.
Ceiling
After a fire, if water damage affects the ceiling, it is critical as the compromised structural integrity can be dangerous. Fire on one floor can result in ceiling water damage to the floor below. Water accumulation on the ceiling can cause bowing, cracking, leaks, and problems like mold growth. Sagging or bubbling of the ceiling can indicate that water is trapped above and may cause the ceiling to cave in. The usual signs of water damage like water spots or staining may not be easy to identify after fire damage. Hence it is best for professionals from a water damage repair team to inspect and assess ceilings to ensure they are dry and structurally safe.
Damaged Wood
Wooden floors and furniture can soak a lot of water. When wood is soaked and damaged it may need to be removed and replaced. Cabinets, doors, floors, and any furniture must be checked for signs of water damage.
Caulking and Seal
When water is left standing for long, the seals around bath fittings, toilets, bathtubs, and appliances can become weak and lose integrity. The cracks that develop in the sealing, as a result, can cause water damage. The seals should be checked, and the damaged parts must be repaired with caulk. Repair must be done after completing the cleanup of the area.
Electrical
After a fire, and the use of water to extinguish it, electrical components and appliances can get damaged and lead to a risk of an electrical fire. Exposure to fire, smoke, and water can affect many electrical items and the electrical system. These may need to be replaced. When any electrical damage is suspected it must be left to professionals to handle to avoid any accidents.
Water Damage Repair
Water damage repair after a fire can take longer. The wet areas must be dried. A professional fire and water damage restoration service will have specialized equipment to handle the restoration process. The drying and dehumidification process can be completed swiftly using equipment like wet/dry vacuums, sump pumps, industrial air movers, dehumidifiers, etc. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is a fire and water cleanup and restoration company. This company is capable of handling both fire and water damage repair simultaneously. There might be areas in the home that are damaged by both fire and water, and some that may be damaged only by one of these elements. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall has a team of highly trained specialists who can manage both fire and water damage repair efficiently. These are personnel who are trained and certified and can follow established protocols to handle both fire and water damage. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall can assist those in need of fire and water damage repair in different areas including in Whitehall, PA. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall can be contacted by dialing the number (713) 906-5133 or visiting their website.
Roof Leaks and Water Damage
8/5/2022 (Permalink)
Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall shares information on roof leaks and water damage.
With water damage, the need for water damage restoration and repair leads to huge expenditures. This is a cost many incur every year in the US. Industry estimates say that approximately 14,000 people in the US experience a water damage emergency on any given day. Data says that water damage and mold growth cost insurance companies $2.5 billion annually.
Water damage attracts staggeringly high costs. So it should be prevented as far as possible. Water damage restoration can be a long process depending on the extent. When water damage does occur, a professional water damage restoration company is the best option. Professionals carry out a quick and thorough repair and cleanup after water damage. In Stockertown, PA, water damage restoration services are done by SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall. This article by SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall shares information on roof leaks and water damage.
Water Damage And Roof Leaks
Old roofs
As they age, roofs become weak. They may become brittle and break when exposed to changing weather over time. Tar holding shingles together can melt when direct sunlight falls on them for long periods. Roof leaks can occur through these faults in the roof that can lead to water damage in the building.
Structural Problems Of The Roof
When shingles break or fall away, there is a lack of sealant in valleys, ice dams form, gutters get blocked, moisture is present in the attic, there is wear and tear of the roof, then roof leaks develop.
Roof Vents
Roof vents must be sealed well to keep water from leaking in during rainstorms. There must be no gaps or cracks in the gaskets around vent pipes.
Debris
Debris, like leaves and twigs, can pile together and trap water against the roof, causing it to seep through the roof.
Clogged Gutters
When gutters get blocked with debris, the flow of water falling off the roof slows. This allows the water to soak through the roof. Gutter blocks must be avoided by installing gutter covers, or by clearing gutters at regular intervals.
Missing Shingles
Roof shingles may be pulled off roofs during strong winds and storms. These exposed areas leak and lead to water damage.
Other Issues
Roof leaks cause insulation damage, electrical damage, mold growth, and other issues.
Avoiding Water Damage Related to Roof Leaks
Regular cleaning and maintenance of gutters and downspouts must be done to prevent clogs in them. This is especially important if there are overhanging trees. Roofs should be inspected regularly so that repairs are carried out before extensive damage occurs.
After every storm, roofs must be checked to identify and repair anything that might cause a leak.
Skylights must be inspected after rain to see if the seals are tight enough to prevent leaks.
Roof flashing must be assessed to see if it functions to prevent water from leaking into the chimney, vents, skylights, and other areas of the roof.
The area around the chimney must be checked for obstructions.
It is better to keep plants away from the home. Moss and algae grow on them and they create moist shady areas around the home.
Inspecting the interior of the roof regularly helps to notice damp spots, stains, or holes that happen after a roof leak.
Attics must be adequately ventilated and insulated to limit humidity and moisture retention. If indoor moisture levels are high water damage and related problems occur.
As far as possible roof leaks should be prevented. Homeowners must be aware of what they should do to maintain roofs and how to avoid roof leaks. In case any water damage does occur water damage restoration professionals can be contacted. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall offers water damage restoration services in Stockertown, PA. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall provides residential and commercial restoration and cleaning services after fire, smoke, or water damage. Their highly trained staff with IICRC-industry certification assures quality service no matter the size of the disaster. This strategically located water damage restoration expert serves local communities including Stockertown, PA. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall can be contacted by phone at the number (610) 559-9380 or by sending an email to SERVPRO5770@SERVPROofeaston.com.
How Homes Are Affected By Flood Damage
8/5/2022 (Permalink)
Blog Summary: An article by SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall on the effects of flood damage on homes.
Floods may seem less catastrophic than other disasters like earthquakes or fires. But though not always immediately water can rise with serious and devastating consequences. Apart from water damage, flooding can result in electrical fires and electrocution accidents.
Flood damage can be extensive and restoration and cleanup are time-consuming. Flood damage restoration can be expensive. It can also be difficult to access when floods affect vital infrastructure and many large areas are affected. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is quick to respond and has resources like trained personnel and specialized equipment to handle flood damage restoration needs. This company operates in local communities including in Quakertown, PA. In this article SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehalloutlines how homes can be affected by flood damage.
Floods are caused by water from a natural disaster like a hurricane or heavy rain. Homeowners must be able to differentiate flood damage from water damage. They must also be aware that they need a separate insurance policy to cover flood damage, especially if the area is prone to floods. Flood damage is devastating.
The following are the effects of flood damage that need to be addressed by flood restoration services.
Structural Damage
The sheer force of water moving during a flood can damage the foundation, walls, and siding of a home. The longer water is left standing, the more the structural integrity of materials like wood and drywall is compromised. The foundation can develop cracks due to hydrostatic pressure from the water below the ground. The longer the level of groundwater is high, the more the potential for flood damage.
Electrical Damage
Floodwater is an excellent conductor of electricity. To avoid danger the utility company is to switch off the power. Using electrically insulated gear must be used when working in a flooded area. Floodwater is also capable of corroding electrical equipment. Even after they dry, electrical switches, receptacles, and breaker panels exposed to floodwater can cause arcing. Some electrical equipment may need to be replaced after flood damage.
Mold
Mold growth can easily occur after floods, and can appear 24 to 48 hours after floodwater recedes and the surfaces are exposed to air. Spores released by mold can lead to allergic reactions. It is best to get professionals for mold removal.
Damage to HVAC and home appliances
The components of electrical appliances and HVAC systems are easily corroded after exposure to floodwater. They can stop working or overheat or cause arcing when used. Appliances may need to be replaced after flood damage.
Plumbing and Septic System Problems
Leaking pipes and damaged plumbing systems can cause floods. Once immersed in floodwater, fixtures may be repaired after disassembling and disinfecting them. If plumbing systems are blocked by contaminants carried by flood water they need cleaning. Floods can cause high pressure in water and sewage pipes causing them to burst. Septic systems can sustain flood damage.
Economic Loss
Flood damage can be financially crippling. Flood restoration services can be expensive. In some cases, homes may be vacated and the occupants may need to find accommodation which adds to the costs. A company like SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall helps clients manage the insurance paperwork and process for an easier claims process.
Emotional Damage
Anxiety, depression, and anger may follow after the trauma of a home being flooded. The emotions people feel can affect their relationships and functions. It may take time for people affected by floods to cope with their consequences.
Flood damage has many undesirable consequences. Homeowners must take steps to prevent flood damage to their homes. But once there has been a flood, a professional flood damage restoration service is the best bet to get the place to pre-damage condition. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is an expert in fire and water clean-up and restoration. They have 24/7 emergency services, are strategically positioned to serve any size emergency, and trained personnel. In Quakertown, PA SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall can be called on (610) 559-9380 for flood restoration work.
24/7 Emergency Service
