Hurricane Categories and Their Impact

9/18/2024 (Permalink)

Living in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, means being well-acquainted with hurricane season. Understanding the categories of hurricanes can help you better prepare for these powerful storms. Here’s a detailed guide on what hurricane categories mean and why they matter.

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

Hurricanes are classified using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which categorizes storms based on their sustained wind speeds. This scale helps predict potential property damage and flooding. The categories range from 1 to 5, with Category 1 being the least severe and Category 5 the most severe.

Category 1: Minimal Damage

- Wind Speeds: 74-95 mph

- Impact: Category 1 hurricanes cause some damage to homes, particularly roofs, shingles, and gutters. Large tree branches might break, and power outages can last for several days.

- Example: Hurricane Dolly (2008)

Category 2: Moderate Damage

- Wind Speeds: 96-110 mph

- Impact: These hurricanes can cause extensive damage to roofs, windows, and doors. Trees with shallow roots may be uprooted, and near-total power loss is expected for several days to weeks.

- Example: Hurricane Frances (2004)

Category 3: Extensive Damage (Major Hurricane)

- Wind Speeds: 111-129 mph

- Impact: Category 3 hurricanes cause devastating damage. Homes may suffer major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking roads. Electricity and water may be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.

- Example: Hurricane Katrina (2005)

Category 4: Extreme Damage (Major Hurricane)

- Wind Speeds: 130-156 mph

- Impact: These hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage. Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls removed. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted, and power poles downed, isolating residential areas due to fallen trees and power poles.

- Example: Hurricane Irma (2017)

Category 5: Catastrophic Damage (Major Hurricane)

- Wind Speeds: 157 mph or higher

- Impact: Category 5 hurricanes cause catastrophic damage. A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

- Example: Hurricane Michael (2018)

Why Understanding Categories is Crucial

Understanding hurricane categories helps residents of Ft. Lauderdale prepare for the impact of the storms. The higher the category, the more severe the expected damage. Knowing the potential impact can guide your preparations, from reinforcing your home to planning evacuation routes.

Preparation Tips

1. Stock Up on Supplies: Ensure you have enough water, non-perishable food, medications, and other essentials to last at least 72 hours.
2. Secure Your Home: Install storm shutters or board up windows. Reinforce garage doors and secure loose outdoor items.
3. Have an Evacuation Plan: Know your evacuation routes and have a plan in place. Follow local authorities' instructions and evacuate if advised.

Taking Action to Protect Your Property

Understanding what hurricane categories mean can significantly improve your preparedness for storm season in Ft. Lauderdale. If you experience hurricane damage, contact SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South for professional and prompt restoration services. Our team is equipped to handle the aftermath of any category of hurricane, ensuring your property is restored efficiently and effectively!

How to Quickly Restore Your Flood-Damaged Property in Ft. Lauderdale

11/26/2023 (Permalink)

If flood damage occurs in your home, be sure to contact SERVPRO. Our professionals have the equipment and expertise to get the job done.

SERVPRO® Offers Trusted Storm Water Removal Services in Ft. Lauderdale

No matter how prepared you are, incidents such as flood damage happen when they are least expected and can interfere with your schedule. So, what happens if you already have other plans - like visiting the Historic Stranahan House Museum? We can offer immediate storm damage restoration service even when you do not have the time to monitor the procedures we carry out to return your property to its preloss state.

Assessing your property is one of the first procedures our SERVPRO technicians perform during storm water removal in Ft. Lauderdale. Water removal entails using specialized equipment such as submersible pumps and wet vacuums. We then perform professional drying to prevent eventualities such as warping, cracking, mold growth, and swelling that may compromise the building's integrity.

If you are a pet owner, there are wonderful stores in the city that you can visit to get some toys, chews, food, and other supplies. Auggie's Pet Supplies is a friendly store with knowledgeable staff ready to listen to your pet's needs. If you are not sure what you need, they can always introduce your pet to a better or new diet.

Pet Wants Fort Lauderdale promises to offer nutritious and fresh pet food prepared using the best ingredients you can ever find. If you are busy, you can purchase the food online and have the food delivered to your doorstep. Even if your dog is overweight, athletic, or has an allergy, you can always find suitable food at the store.

Call SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at (954) 776-2000 to safely restore your storm-damaged property. Our flood damage remediation experts are on standby 24 hours a day and always aim to make your home "Like it never even happened."

Fast Floodwater Removal Services in Fort Lauderdale

9/16/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team rescues Fort Lauderdale Homeowners after flooding. "Like it never even happened."

Flood Cleanup Begins Immediately for Properties

Coastal cities like Fort Lauderdale rely on tourism to drive their economy year-round. A pleasant 75-degree average makes this southern Florida community a hot spot for snowbirds and vacationers. Once a popular destination for spring breakers until the mid-1980s, Fort Lauderdale has rebranded, become less attractive to the college crowd, and services an older, more wealthy form of traveler. This fact is likely how the city became the world's yachting capital, with more than 50,000 registered vessels of this type and docking at more than 100 marinas along the shoreline. The popularity of yachting has also generated more than 110,000 jobs for local residents in manufacturing facilities creating the seafaring ships.

With close to 200,000 residents, many Fort Lauderdale homes might require flood water removal after hurricanes or tropical storms that cause ocean surges. As Large Loss experts, we also have suitable solutions for massive regional facilities, like the Museum of Discovery and Science or the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. When locations like Las Olas Boulevard become affected, the economy takes a hit because the high-end hotels, retail locations, and high-rise condos are in the path of damage.

Clearing Floodwater with Powerful Tools

Effectively clearing surface floodwater means having the right tools for the job. Whether a single-family house or cleaning up the permanent home of the Florida Panthers hockey team at War Memorial Auditorium, the equipment for the job is similar. SERVPRO uses:

• Pumps
• Vacuums
• Weighted Extractors

As leading restoration professionals, SERVPRO® must help homes and businesses fast when flood damage strikes. This urgent response is even more critical with the historical properties of the region that could become irreparably harmed, like the Bonnet House. We are ready to help with the required extraction, cleaning, and repair services. Call SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at (954) 776-2000.

Navigating the Storm: Essential Tips for Hurricane Season 2023 Preparedness

5/25/2023 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season 2023 Safety Tips.

Why Hurricane Preparedness is Important

As we all enter another hurricane season here in southern Florida It is good to stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. Hurricanes are potent storms that can inflict extensive damage, causing flooding, power outages, and property destruction. Ensuring you are prepared for a hurricane can safeguard your family and property. Here are some reasons why hurricane preparedness is paramount:

1. Unpredictability: Meteorologists can track a hurricane's path but can't predict its exact strength or potential damage. Despite useful resources like Hurricane Hunters, Mother Nature repeatedly shows us that we can never wholly foresee a storm's impact. Preparation for the worst-case scenario can help you weather the storm safely.
2. Widespread Damage: Hurricanes can damage homes, businesses, and infrastructure, including power lines, roads, and bridges. Hurricane preparedness can help minimize property damage and expedite recovery post-storm.
3. Potential Fatality: Beyond property damage, hurricanes can also cause loss of life. Being prepared for a hurricane can help you and your family stay safe during the storm and avoid perilous situations.

How to Prepare for a Hurricane

Preparing for a hurricane may seem daunting, but by taking some straightforward steps ahead of time, you can enhance your chances of full recovery. Here are some tips for hurricane preparedness:

1. Assemble a disaster kit: This kit should include essentials like non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio. Do not forget necessary medications, important documents, and extra cash.
2. Secure your home: There are steps you can take to fortify your home during a hurricane. These include installing hurricane shutters, reinforcing garage doors, and trimming trees and shrubs around your house.
3. Document your property: It is crucial to take photos and videos of your property and belongings before a storm. This documentation can help prove incurred damage, which is useful for insurance purposes.
4. Know your evacuation routes: If you live in a hurricane-prone area, familiarize yourself with your local evacuation routes. Plan where you would go if you need to evacuate and share this plan with your family.
5. Stock up on supplies: As a hurricane approaches, it is prudent to stock up on essentials like food, water, and gas for your car. This ensures you have what you need if you cannot leave your home.

What to Do During a Storm

During a hurricane, staying informed and taking measures to protect yourself and your family are crucial. Here are some tips:

1. Stay indoors: If you are home when a hurricane hits, stay inside and away from windows and doors. If you are in a low-lying area, move to higher ground.
2. Heed local authorities: Tune into local news and follow the directives of local authorities. If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately.
3. Turn off utilities: Turn off your electricity, gas, and water before the hurricane strikes to lessen the risk of electrical fires, gas leaks, and flooding.
4. Avoid floodwaters: Never drive or walk through floodwaters—they can be incredibly dangerous. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) labels rising water from a hurricane as "Category 3 water"—grossly contaminated water that can pose severe health risks.
5. Prepare for power outages: Hurricanes can cause prolonged power outages. Have a backup generator or alternative power sources ready.

By adhering to these tips, you can help ensure your safety during a hurricane.

What to Do After a Storm

Post-hurricane, it is vital to assess any damage and begin recovery. Here are some steps:

1. Assess damage: Check your home and property for any damage. If you suspect structural damage, avoid entering your home until it is inspected by a professional.
2. Contact your insurance company: If your property has been damaged, get in touch with your insurance company promptly to start the claims process.
3. Clean up debris: Hurricanes often leave behind debris, including fallen trees and branches. Safely remove any debris to prevent further damage.
4. Check on neighbors: Ensure your neighbors are okay and offer any assistance you can.
5. Stay informed: Keep up with recovery efforts in your area and heed instructions from local authorities.

Hurricane preparedness is crucial for anyone living in hurricane-prone areas like Florida. At SERVPRO®, we understand the devastating impact hurricanes can have on your family, home, and business. Our dedicated disaster recovery protocol and specialized storm teams are always ready for whatever happens. Download a complimentary copy of our Hurricane Preparedness Guide, which includes extensive emergency contact information for Broward, Collier, and St. Lucie Counties."

FEMA Assistance Approved for Broward County Residents: SERVPRO of Fort Lauderdale is Ready to Help With Your Restoration Needs

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster!

Attention Broward County Residents

 FEMA Disaster Assistance is now available for those affected by the April 12-14 severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding. On April 29^th, 2023 FEMA released information stating that President Biden has issued a major disaster declaration for the State of Florida, allowing for disaster assistance to be distributed to those in need.

If you are a homeowner or renter in Broward County and were affected by the severe weather, you are eligible to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. This assistance may include financial aid for temporary lodging, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.

Applying for Assistance

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, homeowners and renters in Broward County can visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or call 800-621-3362. The helpline is available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, and help is available in most languages.

It is important to note that FEMA disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance coverage. If you have insurance, you should still file a claim with your insurance company. However, if you are underinsured or uninsured, FEMA disaster assistance may be able to provide support.

Remember, if you were affected by the severe weather in Broward County in April, you have options for assistance. Do not hesitate to reach out to FEMA for help.

As you begin the process of seeking disaster assistance, it is important to take steps to prevent further damage to your property. Document any damage and begin cleanup and repairs as soon as possible. It's also crucial to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair, as this will help with your insurance claims and potential FEMA assistance.

How SERVPRO of Fort Lauderdale Can Help

If you need help with the cleanup and restoration process, including the reconstruction of your home or business, SERVPRO of Fort Lauderdale is here to assist. As a national brand we come with more than enough resources and experience to handle any disaster, big or small. From water damage restoration to mold remediation and fire damage cleanup, we are here to help you get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.

Insurance Professionals

Restoring your customer’s property is our priority, and they will have peace of mind knowing we are there quickly and work hard to limit damages. With more than 2000 locations, across the United States and Canada, we are quick to respond with 24/7 emergency service.

For more information on Florida's recovery efforts, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov/disaster/4709. You can also follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) and on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

Remember, if you have been affected by the recent severe weather in Broward County, there is help available. File your insurance claims as soon as possible and reach out to SERVPRO of Fort Lauderdale for assistance with the cleanup and restoration process. We are here to support you and our community during this challenging time.

Dealing with Flood Damage at Your Ft. Lauderdale Home

5/2/2023 (Permalink)

When you see our Green Fleet around town, you can ba assured that SERVPRO is on the job, ready to tackle flood damage.

Activities That Ease Recovery and Flood Repairs in Ft. Lauderdale

A flooded house presents many problems, like hazardous contaminants and slick surfaces. It also becomes a hive of activities as work crews clean, remove materials and decontaminate all areas affected by flood damage. Although it may seem more practical, staying close to the Ft. Lauderdale property can heighten your sense of loss since it is harder to distance yourself from the situation mentally. 

Deciding to put some physical distance between you and the flood damage at your Ft. Lauderdale property is one thing. Still, you also need to find activities or amenities to fulfill the needs your home cannot provide over the days to weeks it takes SERVPRO to complete restoration tasks such as removing soot and replacing charred materials.

The Fort Lauderdale area offers everything from parks for relaxation and self-reflection to unique eateries to cater to your nutrition and tastes. There are also several landmarks and historical sites if you fancy sightseeing.

Where to Take in the Sights in Ft. Lauderdale

• Walk a notable street such as Las Olas Boulevard. The trendy street is a 20-minute walk to the beach, lined with galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
• An interactive site like the Museum of Discovery and Science offers an IMAX theater, a live animal exhibit, and a simulated ride to Mars.
• Visit one of the oldest surviving structures in Ft. Lauderdale at the Historic Stranahan House Museum. It was built in 1901 as the home of Frank and Ivy Stranahan, who helped develop the city.
• Spend time at a park with a freshwater lagoon, nature trails, and picnic areas like the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. 

Even though the flood damage figuratively leaves a bitter taste in your mouth, you can use the downtime to try different Fort Lauderdale cuisines like Conch fritters, Alligator bites, Key lime pie, and Cuban sandwiches.

Notable Eateries That Offer These Include

• Bahama Breeze and The Conch Shack, where you can enjoy Conch Fritters
• Shuck N Dive and Gator's Dockside, which offer Alligator Bites
• La Colina Cuban Cafe and Casa Cubana, where you can try Cuban sandwiches
• Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe and Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory

With SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South addressing flood damage at your property, you can afford to take a step back and relax. Call (954) 776-2000.

Water Cleanup After a Storm in Fort Lauderdale Happens Fast with SERVPRO

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

Frequent storms causes flooding to be a year round threat. But no worries. SERVPRO is always on call!

SERVPRO is a Trusted Name for Storm Water Cleanup in Fort Lauderdale

Water damage after a storm can be challenging to repair without professional help. You need professionals like SERVPRO for water cleanup in your Fort Lauderdale home who have the experience, knowledge, and tools to do the job safely and effectively. 

SERVPRO uses a multi-step water cleanup process in Fort Lauderdale homes. The first step after the initial inspection is to pump out any standing water as quickly as possible. Once the techs remove water, the next goal is to dry the structure by creating ideal drying conditions using air movers and dehumidifiers. 

Using Air Filtration Devices (AFDs) during Water Restoration

Air filtration devices perform two functions simultaneously: moving the drying air across the wet surfaces and filtering it. The AFDs that SERVPRO techs use in Fort Lauderdale homes are usually equipped with multiple filters, including High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.

The HEPA filters can remove 99.97% of airborne particles/ contaminants of more than 0.3 microns in size from the drying air. AFDs play a crucial role in preventing the spread of microbial contaminants that might be present in stormwater while drying the structure.

SERVPRO techs sometimes also use special filters in such devices that can remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

To be effective, an AFD relies on a series of filters. The most common filters that AFDs contain include the following:

• Primary filter:It is a poly-sum or a pleated pre-filter that can capture large debris and contaminants before they can reach the next filtration layer.
• Secondary filter: It is usually a pleated filter with a higher capture rate than the primary filter. 
• HEPA filter:The third and final layer is the HEPA filter, which has the highest capture rate. 

Call SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at (954) 776-2000 for fast and efficient service.

Flood Damage in Ft. Lauderdale Homes Is Sometimes Hidden

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damage often needs repair work to restore the home or business to their preloss condition. Fort Lauderdale property owners count on SERVPRO.

Finding Flood Damage After a Storm

Ft. Lauderdale has an attractive climate and favorable environmental conditions most of the time. Powerful weather events could leave structures open to flooding, such as:

• Hurricanes
• Windstorms
• Torrential Rain

The Attic Can Hide Damage

Because the attic is not a high-traffic area in many homes, flood damage in Ft. Lauderdale properties might not be immediately recognized. There are a few reasons for this:

• Slow Migration of Water - Many do not notice attic flooding until it reaches the main living space and must pass through several building materials to reach that point. 
• Small Roof Penetration Points - Sometimes, the area where water is heading into the attic is small, only allowing a small bit of water in at a time.
• Saturation of Insulation - The insulation can slow the progression of water as this material gets fully saturated and absorbs the intruding water until it cannot hold more, and the water leaks into the attic.

Water Removal Solutions for Attics

With the knowledge that attic damage exists, you must prioritize removing the house's water. This process begins with extraction devices like pumps and vacuums but continues through other forms of water removal like managing the moisture content in the environment with dehumidifiers.

Needed Repairs to Help

Not only must our SERVPRO team address vulnerabilities in your roof's construction, but also replace any materials that require removal in the attic. Commercial Contractor License #: CBC1261730. Reconstructing wall systems, flooring, and roof underlayment materials can fix leaks and be the last step to make this flooding "Like it never even happened."

You might not always see flood damage when it occurs. It is usually a good practice to inspect areas like your attic space for leaks or penetration that indicate a situation requiring immediate restoration attention. When disasters strike, you can count on SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South to help. Call now at (954) 776-2000.

Effects of Flood Damage on the Structures of Ft Lauderdale Homes

7/22/2022 (Permalink)

Water quickly deteriorates structural elements like unfinished wood. SERVPRO can quickly remove the water and minimize damage.

SERVPRO Limits Flood Repair Challenges in Ft. Lauderdale

Flooding incidents present unique challenges. Although soiling and contamination are the most likely issues when such incidents hit Ft Lauderdale properties, other problems, especially those that affect the structure, are possible. Structural issues may be caused by the force of moving water or the kind of response you mount after flood damage. 

A knowledgeable and expedited response is essential to effectively tackle flood damage in Ft Lauderdale. The importance of these aspects is further amplified by the need to save your property from long-term structural problems. SERVPRO has the equipment and trained personnel to facilitate such a good response.

Issues that affect structures:

• Warping structural materials 
• Rotting of load-bearing supports
• Foundation cracking

Flooding supplies significant amounts of water whose exposure causes various changes in the materials. For instance, unfinished structural wood readily absorbs the water and swells. If drying is not controlled, it might not be uniform, thus leading to warping. Since warping is not a drastic change readily noticed, especially for concealed materials, you might only realize there is an issue later when other issues like jammed doors develop. 

Limiting Permanent Damage

When working on significant flood damages such as heavy soiling and accumulated debris, it is easy to overlook the structural changes happening out of sight. In addition to causing warping, the moisture can lead to rotting in the structural materials. One thing that might work to your advantage is that your response to flood damage influences the severity of the outcome. SERVPRO helps plan and execute restoration to limit the unnecessary deterioration of structural materials and valuables. 

Helpful actions against flood deterioration:

• Speeding up water removal with extractors
• Tracing hidden moisture migration with thermal cameras
• Controlling drying with a closed drying system 

SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South is a reliable service provider to call after flood damage in your residence. You can reach us at (954) 776-2000. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Responding To Flood Damage At Night In Fort Lauderdale

4/24/2022 (Permalink)

When you wake up to an extensive flood in your kitchen, it’s time to bring in the professionals at SERVPRO. Our technicians are standing by 24/7.

Responding To Flood Damage At Night

When flood damage strikes in Fort Lauderdale at night, it can create a very different situation than floods that hit during the day. You may not receive warnings and prior notification of an impending disaster, and even if you do, it may be more difficult to ensure your safety than in more optimal hours. SERVPRO operates at all hours of the day and night to ensure fast and effective service for any disaster, but there are still several things you may need to do differently than place a call to us to weather the flood.

Turn off the Lights

While it may be tempting to keep the lights on when experiencing flood damage in Fort Lauderdale at night, doing so can create a serious electrocution hazard for you and your family. Floodwaters can damage electrical breakers, power lines, and individual fixtures, creating many risks at once. However, you should still have a source of illumination to find your way around the house in the dark: make use of flashlights or even smartphone screens and camera lights to guide the way around the house.

Wake Others Up

Unless you live alone, you should prioritize the safety of those around you and make sure that they understand the situation. Wake up anyone you can by any means necessary and gather them in one place, preferably the most secure or elevated position in your home. Get a headcount to make sure you have everyone, and only then should you move on to any additional steps.

Call For Help

SERVPRO’s IICRC-certified  technicians respond to emergency damage calls on a 24/7 basis, arriving at your home within hours of the disaster to begin recovery and repair for anything lost in the flood. However, you should also have a list of other emergency services on hand in case things go awry. Be ready to dial the fire department in case of a fire or medical emergency, as a direct call may be faster and easier than going through 911.

SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South provides emergency damage mitigation and restoration services around the clock to ensure that you are never unprepared for a disaster. Call us at the first time of trouble at (954) 776-2000.

A Dangerous Tropical Storm Can Cause Flood Damage in Your Plantation Home

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damage in Plantation? SERVPRO holds true to its slogan--We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Why Do Property Owners in Plantation Call Rely Upon SERVPRO for Rapid Water Removal after a Storm?

While living in Florida, there is always a small risk of having flood damage in your home at some point. With the number of tropical storms that hit yearly and heavy rains, it is just a part of life. However, it is never something a homeowner wants to deal with, who would? SERVPRO responds rapidly, We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

When a severe storm hits your Plantation home and causes flood damage inside of your garage, you may consider trying to handle the water yourself. After all, it is only your garage. However, it is best to allow professionals to handle the damage inside. Not only is the structure of your home put at risk of mold damage, but your belongings stored inside of your garage are open to the damage as well.
 
With exposure to standing water, your bicycle chains can rust, boxes of old belongings can become waterlogged, and your camping gear can mold. To prevent these issues, it is best to hire professionals who can make sure that the moisture in your garage is at an acceptable level.
 
When you call SERVPRO, we make it a priority to arrive at your residence quickly. We know that remediating the damage as fast as we possibly can is the key to a successful job. In the case of flood damage, it helps to ensure that there are no further complications, such as mold damage or secondary damage caused by the circulation of overly moist air.
 
SERVPRO can bring advanced trade tools such as portable submersible pumps and wet/dry vacuums to your garage to remove the standing water. After the water is gone, we can take any ruined boxes and dry out your belongings inside, such as stored clothing. Afterward, we can repack your belongings into new boxes and restore them. We can also dry out your camping gear and clean the surface of the concrete.
 
Should you have lost any of your belongings in the flood, SERVPRO can help you create an insurance claim by cataloging your losses; we can provide a CCIS Contents Claim Inventory Service. We strive to make all aspects of this remediation process less stressful for you.
 
If a tropical storm ever floods your home, do not hesitate to call for help. Dial (954) 776-2000 to get in touch with SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South.

What Steps Are Needed to Restore a Flood-Damaged Plantation Home?

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO responds to storm damage calls 24/7 with extraction tools, EPA-registered biocides, and power sources in houses without electricity.

Plantation SERVPRO Flood Damage Techs Extract, Sanitize, Deodorize, and Repair Properties

Across the United States, including in Plantation, a whopping 14.6 million homes run the risk of flooding. Mopping up the remaining water and running fans can seem like a feasible strategy at first. Still, it may not be enough to mitigate the risk of further property damage or bacterial contamination.

Trained SERVPRO flood damage cleanup professionals in Plantation respond to disaster calls 24/7 with extraction tools, EPA-registered biocides, and power sources in houses without electricity. This comprehensive response can save homeowners time and money when tacking home flooding.

Steps Required for Flood Damage Mitigation

SERVPRO mitigation technicians observe the following protocols during floodwater cleanup:

• Inspection - This step is key to forming a cohesive mitigation plan and is performed throughout the extraction and drying process to ensure that affected surfaces reach an equilibrium moisture content (EMC) comparable to dry, unaffected structures and contents in the home. Restorable flood-affected items are measured with sensors, meters, and imaging devices during restoration to this end
• Sanitation - Because of the variety of contaminants present during a flood–which can include sewage, chemical residues, and solid debris–thorough cleaning with antimicrobials and careful disposal of unsalvageable contents and refuse is a must for keeping home occupants safe
• Extraction and drying - Moisture removal units, such as portable and truck-mounted extractors, as well as sump pumps for standing water without solid waste, are just a few of the essential tools for eliminating excess moisture from water. Commercial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers are deployed after extraction to address remaining moisture
• Deodorization - Ultra-low volume (ULV) fogging can dispense water- or solvent-based deodorizers that penetrate surfaces affected by malodors

We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster for property owners who call SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at (954) 776-2000.

What Are Some Practical Ways to Handle Contamination During Flood Removal in Ft. Lauderdale Homes?

12/24/2021 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage restoration is no DIY project. Call SERVPRO for fast and immediate service.

SERVPRO Uses Both Physical and Chemical Methods to Remove Contaminants From Affected Properties

When handling flood removal, you have to take care of many distinct issues. Contamination is one such issue, and its sensitive nature necessitates careful handling to prevent spreading or unnecessary exposure for people.

Contaminants can be spread out all over the property. Therefore, you interact with them during many steps of flood removal from your Ft. Lauderdale home. That is why professionals like SERVPRO plan how to address contamination right from the beginning. 

There are three common ways used to handle contaminants:

• Isolating contaminants
• Removing affected materials
• Applying chemicals

Isolation means identifying the harmful materials and then protecting materials and contents from coming into contact with the toxic substances. Our SERVPRO technicians can achieve this by removing contents from affected areas or setting up containment barriers. 

Since isolation may not be possible, especially when groundwater is involved, another solution is removing heavily contaminated materials. In most cases, these are porous materials since cleaning them cannot remove all trace pollutants. Our SERVPRO technicians remove carpets, pads, and insulation from flooded sections of the property, thus leaving the hard surfaces and structural supports, which can be decontaminated by cleaning and applying chemicals.

Various chemical agents can help address contaminants, including:

• Antimicrobial agents
• Sterilants
• Disinfectants 

Many commercial products produced for managing contaminants combine several chemical agents, making them practical for multipurpose use. Our SERVPRO technicians look for products with the right concentration levels to combat the pollutants we expect at your flooded property. For instance, if there is a sewage backup, biohazard levels are high, so we opt for products with a higher concentration of disinfectants.

SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South evaluates flooding incidents to ensure the flood removal approach chosen suits the condition at the site. You can reach us at (954) 776-2000 when you need assistance. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

SERVPRO Can Help with Minor and Major Flood Damage in Plantation

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm hits home, call the professionals at SERVPRO. Our IICRC certified techs are ready for any size storm damaged job.

Call SERVPRO for Help with Flood Damage to Your Plantation Property

Damage from flooding to our Plantation homes can be catastrophic for many families. Even minor flooding can ruin your contents and cause permanent damage to porous materials, e.g., drywall and flooring. Floodwaters also introduce contaminants to your home, for example, bacteria, viruses, biological material, chemicals, and debris picked up by the raging water along the way. Water and moisture left in place can also create the perfect environment for mold growth. Mold infestations can occur in forty-eight hours or less.

SERVPRO provides flood damage restoration and repair services for Plantation homes and surrounding areas. We respond in less than four hours from your call. Our franchise is part of a large loss recovery team and can martial the resources needed to respond to large flood damage incidents.

High winds can damage roofs and walls, breaking windows and doors, letting in tremendous amounts of wind-blown rainwater along with floodwaters that cascade through your neighborhood. We provide emergency services such as board-up services to cover broken windows and doors and wall punctures. Tarps are placed on damaged roofs to prevent further damage from rainwater and animals.

Our team quickly assesses the situation and begins removing excess water, drying, and dehumidification. Since the floodwaters may be contaminated, we also clean and sanitize all items that can be restored, including structural components. We also perform minor repairs such as replacing carpet or damaged drywall to restore your home to its preloss condition.

Our Flood Damage Services Include:

• Flood Water removal services
• Flood Water damage restoration and repairs
• Temporary emergency storm damage response – Tarps and board up

Call SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South for flood damage in Plantation and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (954) 776-2000.

What to do When You Have Flood Damage in Your Davie Home

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

When storm damage impacts your property, call on our skilled experts at SERVPRO for assistance.

Standing Water in Your Davie Home Can be a Shock, Call SERVPRO Today.

It is critical to move quickly when standing water gets discovered in your Davie home. Strong storm systems that can hit the coastline can raise creeks, streams, and other bodies of water. When you find standing water in any volume in your property, you must work to get the right personnel involved in implementing mitigation tactics that can save areas of your home yet to become affected by the migration of this damage.

Flood damage in Davie homes presents a substantial threat to the structural integrity of the property. Also, standing water can allow for threats many homeowners might not expect, like conducting electricity from outlets in the affected area or spreading bacteria and microorganisms throughout the property. You should never enter flood water in your home because health hazards and the risks of injury are too severe for those untrained or ill-equipped. Our SERVPRO professionals have personal protective equipment and extensive training to overcome these threats as they get discovered.

When you first find flooding in your home, the first thing that you should do is to contact our rapid response team. We have dedicated professionals standing by 24/7 to reach your home with effective extraction and drying processes. Our equipment and potent cleaning products can protect more areas of your home from the potential contamination of natural flooding.

Storm Flood Removal

Contacting your insurance provider is another crucial step to take, as we can often coordinate efforts between our SERVPRO management and your insurance adjuster. Being along the Florida coast, many homes already have storm and flood damage coverage in their plan to protect their houses, so you need the right information about what services get covered and what out-of-pocket expenses you might expect moving forward.

As unnerving as it might be to find a lower level of your home contending with several inches of standing water, our SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South team has powerful extractors like our sump pumps and truck-mounted options to help. We also have rapid drying solutions to help us get to cleaning and disinfecting contaminated areas of your home as soon as possible. Give us a call anytime that you need us at (954) 776-2000.

Storm Surge Will Cause Flood Damage in Fort Lauderdale

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm hits home, call the professionals at SERVPRO. Our IICRC certified techs are ready for any size storm damage job.

Saltwater Complications Make Hiring SERVPRO Professionals For Fort Lauderdale Flood Restoration Smart

Rain and wind storms, ranging in severity, challenge homeowners year-round in Fort Lauderdale. Flood damage differs with each weather pattern. Some storms feature perfect conditions for storm surge creation, adding salty seawater to the mix invading your home.

What Causes Storm Surge in Fort Lauderdale?

The strong winds of tropical storms or hurricanes produce a vertical circulation of water deep into the ocean. As the storm edges closer to land, the comparative shallowness of the sea pushes the swirling water up and over the land. 

Is Saltwater More Destructive to Fort Lauderdale Residences Than Rainwater?

When a storm surge exacerbates the circumstances of flooding, SERVPRO crews adapt the water damage restoration plan. The brackish water infiltrating a flood-damaged home escalates the harm caused. Effects of saltwater flooding include:

• Corrosion and eventual weakening of concrete, stone, plaster, and brick

• Accelerated rusting of metal supports and fasteners

• Delignification of wood -- a breakdown of lignin, part of the wood cell structure 

• Significant increase in electric conductivity, raising electrocution, shock, and fire risks, as well as the destruction of home electronics

How Does SERVPRO Manage Increased Salinity During Water Clean Up?

As SERVPRO Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRT) work through best practices protocol, they add steps to reduce salt residues:

• Monitoring power use even more carefully than usual 

• Using freshwater flushes before the pumping and extraction stages

• Containing and properly disposing of the brackish water according to local regulation

• Inspecting for salty residues when cleaning and adapting techniques when salinity is high 

Remediation of flood damage from rain and storm surge is a staple SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South service. Give the experts a call at (954) 776-2000.

SERVPRO Helps Save Your Favorite Easy Chair After Flood Damage in Fort Lauderdale

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Water can quickly damage floors and furnishings. SERVPRO has the tools to quickly dry the water and restore your home.

Fort Lauderdale Flooded Furnishings Get Great Restoration from SERVPRO

Flood damage is a genuine danger in this area. High tides and the resulting floods are a householder’s nightmare as the cleanup can often be time-consuming and costly.

One of the worst parts of dealing with the aftermath of flood damage to your Fort Lauderdale home is the sense that life is not the same. Handling the effect of flooding on your home and belongings is stressful and makes life feel unstable. Damage to favorite pieces of furniture is a common cause of concern.

SERVPRO experts are on hand to help restore your house and belongings after flood damage. That includes taking steps to save your favorite easy chair. The combination of soft upholstery materials with wooden frames makes soft furnishings particularly susceptible to flood damage. Wood warps and becomes misshapen while soft upholstery wicks up water. Quick-drying is vital to help prevent mold or mildew growth in the soft material.

The first step after flooding in your home is to put in a call to SERVPRO. While you wait for our IICRC-certified experts to arrive, there is an important step you can take: Move the chair away from the carpet or any other surfaces that are at risk of being stained by the bleeding color. Only do this if it is safe for you to do so. Blocking, placement of paper or wood to eliminate contact with the water also can help.

Our technicians arrive with all the tools necessary to dry your chair as quickly as possible. We have powerful truck-mounted cleaners ready to clean your chair and other furnishings and get rid of any water stains before drying commences. Our equipment uses hot water extraction and a specialist upholstery tool to deep clean water damaged furniture.

Now your furniture is cleaned, it is time to dry it. We start by drying out buttons and zippers to prevent rust. We also place furniture pads around metal buttons and waxed paper between the zipper and the chair cushion. These steps avoid rust transfer, so your upholstery is not stained by it.

Cushions are tented or propped up so air can move more freely around them. SERVPRO technicians can skillfully create a small containment barrier around the affected piece of furniture that hastens drying. Our experts calculate the best position and number of dehumidifiers and air movers for thorough drying of your chair. Air movers direct air under and around chair legs, backs, seats, and cushions to encourage evaporation and drying. Meanwhile, dehumidifiers remove moisture from the surrounding air and promote a drier environment.

If your favorite chair is damaged by floodwater, do not give up. Give SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South a call at (954) 776-2000 for help.

Storms in South Florida can Deeply Affect Homes in Davie

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Storms have residual effects after the fact. SERVPRO is trained and experienced in all forms of storm damage restoration.

Flooded Davie Homes Can Call SERVPRO for Assistance

Storms in South Florida can be impactful, even when they do not register among the largest in the region’s history. Like all other cities in the area, Davie is susceptible to their effect, including a rise in water levels, broken branches, damaged roofs, and many other consequences. 

When stormwater makes its way into a Davie home, moving quickly to enlist the help of SERVPRO and our professional team is the best step to protect your home and its contents. 

Our Davie clients with flood damage may be surprised by how involved the water damage restoration process can be. Cleaning up after a flood involves much more than water extraction, and it takes a certified team like SERVPRO to address the specific needs of your home. As we perform water damage repairs, you may expect some of the following to take place-

• Carpets- carpets are typically removed completely when stormwater saturates them. Their porous nature becomes a breeding ground for bacteria which can prove harmful to your health. Our team takes care of removing and disposing of it according to environmental and local regulations.
• Structural Damage- our staff inspects the home for structural damage and coordinates with relevant specialists and authorities. As needed, we may help replace drywall or liaise with contractors for more extensive repairs. Every minute your home’s structure soaks up water, the damage to its structural stability increases.
• Biohazards- thanks to the debris and microorganisms in floodwater, a full restoration process must include anti-microbial solutions as part of the cleaning efforts. 
• Once our water removal services are done, we use advanced technology to clean the area and thwart the growth of bacteria such as mold.

SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South is ready to serve the Davie community and restore its homes. Call us at (954) 776-2000 and let us leave your home. “Like it never even happened.”

A Flash Flood Can Wreak Havoc on Your Home

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has IICRC trained technicians for any size storm damage done to your home or property.

Flooding in Fort Lauderdale requires professional attention.

Rising sea levels and active storm seasons can challenge homeowners when they least expect it. Increasingly, we see flooding become part of our lives, and its consequences can be extensive. When water enters your home, it is time to call upon the expertise of a professional restoration company. Only a trained group of technicians can reassure you that the damaging effects of blackwater in your home are taken care of.

In Fort Lauderdale, flood damage after a storm is a job for our trained experts at SERVPRO. Our staff relies on the latest techniques and industry best practices to address the undesirable consequences of water coming into your home. If excess humidity, debris, and bacteria are of concern, let our team take care of them. As a homeowner, you should expect-

• Industrial-grade equipment to extract water
• Move-out and disposal services as necessary
• Disinfection to discourage the growth of bacteria such as mold

SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South is ready to act when emergencies happen. Call us 24/7 at (954) 776-2000 and let us leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Winter Stargazing at the Buehler Planetarium in Davie

12/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO says flooding in Davie does not reach to the stars!

Broward College's Planetarium Opens to Davie Residents Every Wednesday Night

Broward Colleges Planetarium is one of the only publicly accessible observatories in Broward County. The Planetarium and observatory measure 40-foot in diameter using modern telescopic equipment that auto-focuses to ensure objects remain transparent, in focus, and accessible to those without training. Shows from the Buehler Planetarium in Davie run every Wednesday night with public admissions from 7 pm until 10 pm. The center is also well-known for its dedication to education, with several school programs and tours of the night's sky running throughout the year. The observatory position in Davie, Florida, allows visitors to get up-close views of the Orion Nebula on a clear night. Current renovations are underway, but public access is still available on Wednesdays.

Admissions start at $4 with concessions and rise to $6 for one-time visitors

Students from Broward College gain free access to the planetarium all year round including for private viewings

The observatory features 20 modern telescopes and well-informed, educative staff

Flash flooding can be devastating to your home and contents. Contact SERVPRO of Fort Lauderdale South at (954) 420-6305 for expert assistance.

Plantation and Ft. Lauderdale Jazz Fans Come to the Flamingo Gardens

11/22/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO take your blues away by jazzing up your home after theres been a flood. You can reach us at (954) 776-2000.

Great Atmosphere and Excellent Music 

For anyone with a penchant for good jazz music, you should not hesitate to see the Brubeck Brass group's live performance at The Flamingo Gardens on November 28th, 2020 in Plantation. It is recommended that those interested should secure their seats and admission tickets in advance, as health and distance restrictions limit the number of potential spectators. 

There is no special event pricing for this event, so you can come early to the Gardens and stay as long as you would like. Because admission is limited to 150 guests in the facility, you can go online to secure your place in the appropriately socially distanced crowd on this or any other upcoming live performance on the grounds. The show begins at 2 PM, though you can enter Flamingo Gardens as early as 10 AM on the performance day. 

Keep your jazz tunes from turning to blues by trusting our SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South team to help with flood removal in Plantation homes when you need it most. Give us a call at (954) 776-2000 anytime.

What Damage Can Flooding Do to Your Plantation Home's Walls?

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Stormwater can soak into the drywall of your home causing extensive damage. Don't wait, give us a call today.

Penetrating floodwater can be a devastating situation, but even when water does not reach inside the structure, wall systems can still become damaged. 

Plantation homeowners have seen the destructive nature of flooding when it occurs in the area. After bursts of powerful rain that can leave several inches over an hour to the rising of creeks and streams after steady rain days, the results remain the same. Water pooling outside of properties in the neighborhood can find a way inside many of these structures. When it does not, wall systems preventing interior damage can still become affected. Each element of an exterior wall is sensitive and susceptible to flood damage, which includes:

• Siding
• Insulation
• Plywood
• Wood Framing
• Drywall

Flood damage repair for Plantation homes often hinges on understanding what damage has occurred to these exterior wall systems and what should be done to restore it. We have a team of general contractors that can repair these degrading materials or rebuild destroyed portions of your house, meaning that we have a comprehensive approach to flood losses. When our team first arrives, we can focus on determining the extent of the damage, which often requires removing exterior siding so that probing moisture meters can detect the presence of water on both the inside and outside of the wall. 

Is It Possible to Limit Reconstruction Needs? 

Reconstruction is often inevitable when flood damage occurs, but our SERVPRO team's prompt response can help to begin moisture removal and antimicrobial treatments for indirectly exposed elements. Those immediately impacted by floodwater must often get removed and later replaced due to the potential contaminants present in natural flooding. 

Working on repairs to restore your home after a flood is a situation that many families have to face in southern Florida. Our SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South team can help when you need it. Give us a call anytime at (954) 776-2000.

See more about Plantation.

Can Flood Removal Help Preserve Your Home's Value?

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Should flood waters enter your home, call SERVPRO. We can quickly and safely make it, "Like it never even happened."

Ft. Lauderdale Homeowners Need Flood Removal Before Damage Occurs

Ft. Lauderdale homeowners know the importance of keeping their home's value as high as possible. The valuation of your home directly affects the money you can get for selling it. It is to your benefit to look after your house and boost its market value as much as you can.

Ft. Lauderdale residents dealing with flood removal are more concerned with the immediate need to clear their home of water and make it habitable once more. However, once the initial crisis has passed, it is crucial to consider your house value and whether a flood can damage it.

Can Flooding Affect the Value of a Home?

There is no one simple answer to this question as the effect of flooding on house prices varies by the geographical area and the extent of the damage the flood caused. There is undoubtedly a risk of house prices dropping following a water surge in a specific area.

The law in Florida does not require residents to disclose a house's flood history before selling it. However, much of Ft. Lauderdale is in a flood zone, and most buyers will be aware of that. Knowing that a property is in a flood area can make a difference in the amount a buyer is willing to pay.

SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South encourages homeowners to protect their homes from flooding whenever possible and call in assistance for rapid flood removal and cleanup if necessary. Swift action might affect your home's value, but it will most certainly positively impact your state of mind and ability to get back to your life.

What Are Some Things You Can Do to Protect Your Home from Flooding?

You cannot prevent a flood from reaching your Ft. Lauderdale home, but there are some things you can do to protect your house:

• Add seals and barriers on doors and windows to prevent water seeping in
• Add a sump pump system to drain water away from your house
• Consider putting valves on drainage lines and toilets so that sewage cannot back up into your property when a flood occurs
• Landscape your garden so that water flows down and away from your home

Why Is Extraction Such an Important Part of Restoration?

When SERVPRO teams arrive on your property, our first task is to extract as much standing water as possible. The more water we remove at the start of restoration, the less water will remain to soak into soft furnishings and structural materials. More water extraction at the beginning means less time spent drying and dehumidifying.

The more thoroughly we extract flood water from your home, the faster and more effective the remediation process will be.

What Tools Do SERVPRO Use for Flood Removal?

SERVPRO trains our teams to remove flood water from your home using a wide range of extraction tools. Every situation is different and requires the right tool for the job. Our equipment includes:

• Portable extractors which we can take into your home and use on multiple levels provided there is still power to your house
• Truck-mounted extractors are ideal for use if we need more powerful equipment or no electricity supply in your home
• Carpet wands which extract moisture from glued-down carpets
• Extraction tools, both stationary and self-propelled, to squeeze water out of carpet and carpet pad
• Pumps of varying levels of power that we can choose from to pump out standing water

What Happens After the Initial Flood Removal?

Using equipment such as pumps and extractors is an essential first step in flood removal and remediation work. However, SERVPRO is committed to restoration work, and restoration goes far beyond the initial cleanup.

After flood removal, our teams set to work drying and restoring your home and belongings. We bring in air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out rooms and encourage ventilation. We assess drapes, furniture, and personal items to decide what we can salvage and what we cannot. Our teams thoroughly clean salvageable items and dispose of non-recoverable items.

Our air movers and dehumidifiers remove stubborn damp odors from your home, leaving it smelling fresh and clean. We also check for and take care of any structural damage so you can rest assured that it is safe to enter your home.

You cannot do anything about whether your home is in a flood zone, but you can take swift action in a storm. You can keep up your home value by taking good care of it and keeping water damage to a minimum.

For help with flood removal, call SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at (954) 776-2000.

What Types of Maintenance Can Help My Home Avoid Water Damage From Storms?

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Our storm damage technicians have the equipment and experience to restore your Property to pre-damage condition.

SERVPRO technicians are ready to come to your home 24/7 and clean up your Plantation home.

When intense weather hits local areas hard, if your home has not undergone regular maintenance, the result can be extensive water loss. Common issues reported include:  

• Water coming in around poorly sealed windows and doors  
• Leaking roof 
• Landscape directing water towards rather than away from the home
• Tree limbs too close to windows causing breakage

Is My Wood Floor a Loss Due to Flood Damage?   

When the flood damage rushes into your Plantation home, the timer starts ticking on the loss. Fast action can make the difference in a floor with restoration potential or facing the prospect of replacing your flooring. Certain criteria make or break the possibility of restoring your hardwood flooring:  

• If the floorboards are composite wood, while economical, this type of flooring tends to deteriorate rapidly after water exposure
• Wood absorbs water and the longer the boards remain wet, the more they warp
• Drying in place is possible if the cleanup efforts begin rapidly enough
• After drying, some boards may need sanding and refinishing to return to their original, flat state

Common Issues After a Flood Loss  

When SERVPRO technicians handle the removal of floodwater in a home, frequently there is no standing water but a copious amount of residual moisture left in flooring, wicked into sheetrock and contents. The techs use their equipment to determine where the water is and get to work extracting and drying the property. If there was any delay in the cleanup, the techs commonly use proactive mold growth deterrent applications to inhibit any germination of spores or growth. 

SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South (954) 776-2000 has the experience and equipment to handle any size flood damage in your home and return your home to its preloss condition. 

See more about Plantation.

What Can Be Done About Hurricane-Related Flooding Damage in Plantation?

4/19/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure to have SERVPRO on speed dial in case your property is affected by a hurricane. We arrive on the scene quickly and ready to mitigate.

In Plantation, It Always Pays to Prepare Your Home for Hurricanes and to Know Who to Call After Disaster Strikes 

Considering its year-round tropical weather and easy access to South Florida’s main attractions, Plantation often seems like the perfect place to live.  However, there is a price to pay for these great lifestyle benefits. This cost comes in the form of the yearly hurricane season, lasting from June 1st through November, which routinely causes severe flooding damage to the homes of area residents like you.  The low-lying, swampy nature of this region, coupled with the network of canals that crisscrosses it, only enhances this hurricane-related flooding. The only ways to handle this risk are to properly prepare your home for these storms as soon as you learn of their approach and by contacting the right cleaning and restoration professionals afterward.                

What Can You Do to Mitigate Hurricane-Related Flood Damage in Plantation?

The first step you can take to mitigate hurricane-related flooding damage in Plantation is to properly prepare your home prior to a storm’s arrival.  Generally, in South Florida, weather forecasts give us anywhere from three days to a week’s warning of an approaching tropical storm or hurricane’s landfall.  During this warning period, depending on the severity of the storm, you should:

• Find the shutoff switches/valves to your electricity, gas, and water.  Switch these off before you leave, so that additional damage to your property is prevented and others are protected from potential electrical shocks or gas explosions.
• Ensure that all sump pumps and drains are in good working order.  By doing this, you help prevent water from entering your home.
• Make sure to properly repair and seal any foundation cracks or damage.  In doing so, you protect your ground floor from flood water penetration.
• Inspect your roof for missing and damaged tiles or shingles.  By replacing these, roof leaks and more extensive water damage may be avoided.
• Be certain your gutters are clean because clogged gutters can lead to wall and roof leaks.
• Close and secure your storm shutters, or cover your windows with plywood.  This helps protect your windows from flying debris and storm winds.
• Move or tie down outdoor objects that could become damaging projectiles in a storm.
• Trim nearby trees that could fall on, drop branches on, or otherwise damage your home.  This should reduce the potential for roof damage and associated water leaks.   
• Place sandbags around your home to divert flood waters away from it.

As soon as the storm passes and you return home, call an experienced flood damage mitigation and restoration company in Plantation like SERVPRO.  We are always ready to answer your call, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Oftentimes, our technicians can be on-site within four hours of your call.  The flood damage-related services we offer include:  

• Water extractions of all magnitudes
• Hazardous water and waste removal and disposal
• Professional cleaning and disinfecting that prevents harmful microorganism growth and dry rot
• Water damage inspections using high-tech moisture meters and sensors
• Expert drying of your home’s interior and contents, using dehumidifiers, air movers, injectidry systems, and other equipment
• Professional odor removal with sprayers and state-of-the-art foggers

How Does SERVPRO Mitigate Flood Damage and Restore Affected Homes?

While nothing is 100% certain, SERVPRO is often able to produce remarkable results for homeowners in Plantation.  Generally, after our technicians arrive on-site and assess the situation, they:

• Extract standing water with extractors and submersible pumps

• Enter your house and spray EPA-approved disinfectants on affected surfaces

• Remove storm debris and mud with rakes and shovels

• Safely discard all materials contaminated by floodwaters and pressure wash and disinfect impacted structural elements

• Dry your home’s interiors, walls, and ceilings with dehumidifiers, air movers, and injectidry systems

• Determine when the job has been completed by measuring moisture levels with meters and sensors

• Disinfect and deodorize your house with advanced foggers

What are the Benefits of SERVPRO’s Service?

SERVPRO’s service can benefit you these key ways:

• It could save your home and many of your possessions
• Our technicians are often able to limit the severity of your flood damage
• We help prevent harmful microbial growth and eliminate unpleasant odors
• We can often save you time and money by always first attempting to restore things, rather than simply replacing everything

Living in Plantation can seem like a dream, but hurricanes and the flooding they cause are a yearly threat here.  Make sure you plan ahead for them and the other destructive weather events common to this area. Be sure to check your insurance coverage well in advance of hurricane season to ensure that you are properly covered for all likely weather-related issues.  When disaster does eventually strike, call SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at (954) 776-2000 for assistance.  

Some Tips to Help With Flood Damage Remediation in Plantation

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding can be quite overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO to help remediate the flood damage affecting your home.

Flood Damage in Plantation

Plantation is perfectly tucked in between the state’s eastern coast and the Everglades, not to mention having I-595 as its southern border. It allows residents to enjoy our local area and to quickly get on the road for adventures everywhere else. 

Plantation flood damage, though, is anything except an adventure. When it happens, the contaminated, outside water can ruin much of a home’s interior in a very short amount of time. SERVPRO response teams can quickly remove the water and clean the home before permanent damage can happen, but when water remains standing for too long, the teams then remove and replace the affected building material. 

As a licensed contractor (CBC #1261730), our construction teams can perform most tasks needed to return a home or commercial facility to its pre-flood state. Technicians demolish and remove damaged building material, then replace it so the structure either looks exactly as it did before or make improvements and adjustments to the floor plan according to the owner’s directions. 

Our carpenters and builders can easily expand a wall to enlarge a kitchen, or build in additional floor framing to support a large island that dramatically changes the layout. If a family finds its needs changing due to new children arriving or parents moving in for support, they can also help the owner reduce the size of an entertainment area to allow for more bedrooms. 

Even in the middle of a rebuild with workers on-site, however, each home or business is still at risk for further damage. To ameliorate problems from weather or animal intrusions, SERVPRO technicians secure the home as carpenters begin the demolition and rebuild. These preventive actions include boarding up windows and doors, cover roof damage with tarps or plywood where needed, and sealing or covering cracks that form when severe flooding shifts a home off or cracks its foundation. 

Our goal at SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South is to return every home here, and in other communities like Davie, Las Olas, and Rio Vista, to its pre-flood condition. To schedule a service call or ask a question about specific items like furniture restoration, contact us today at (954) 776-2000. 

Click here for more information about Plantation.

Plantation Home Sub-Level Stormwater Damage Cleanup Needed? Call SERVPRO

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Flooding Cleanup and Drying in Plantation Structural Crawlspaces--and Offers Encapsulation

Flash Flooding Concerns for Plantation Crawlspaces

Flash flooding is a situation that is already out of control by the time it reaches your Plantation home. With severe weather systems making landfall on the shore here regularly, summer flash floods to lower-lying areas not lining the coast can have a powerful effect on exposed homes and businesses. Despite the storm damage that might have led to the presence of floodwater in your home or its crawlspace, our SERVPRO professionals must respond quickly to remove this standing water and its threat to exposed structural components.

Crawlspaces provide access for utilities and can help to protect from immediate flood damage in Plantation homes. Though this area can prevent the penetration of rushing floodwater, it is critical to extract this standing water and to clean up after the mess to prevent microbial threats, the spread of bacteria, or structural degradation and deterioration with prolonged moisture exposure. Knowing how your home is at risk with a flooded crawlspace can help to stress the importance of professional restoration happening as quickly as possible.

Moisture and Direct Exposure

The presence of excess water in the crawlspace of your home after a flood can be an adverse situation for the exposed wooden framework, supports, joists, subflooring, and more. Framing wood can be a porous material, allowing direct saturation and the absorption of higher humidity and moisture content in this confined area after flood damages.

Microbial Threats

Excessive moisture in this space beneath the house can lead to the development of microbial threats that can spread into the main floors of your home. Mold growth in the crawlspace can use organic materials like the subflooring and carpets above them to spread colonies into the house and pose threats to the structural integrity of the house and the health of its occupants.

Confined Spaces

A defining trait about crawlspaces is how difficult they can be to access fully. When flood effects are present, we have useful strategies to remove all standing water and moisture from these areas. From submersible pumps with long discharge lines to wet vacuums, we can prepare the space for complete drying and encapsulation when requested.

From one-time flood recoveries to full crawlspace encapsulations, our SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South team can help however you need it after a flood loss. Give us a call today at (954) 776-2000.

A Host of Issues After Storm, Flood Damage in Plantation Home

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

We will help you with every portion of your Plantation home after a storm.

Storm damage can and will take over your Plantation home, let us be there.

Flood damage brings more than just water damage to a property. Several issues accompany this type of home disaster, even if it is as little as a half-an-inch of water has the potential to require the gutting of a home. 

One of the best things a Plantation homeowner with storm or flood damage can do is engage cleanup efforts as fast as possible. Water migrates quickly, and sheetrock is particularly susceptible to wicking water and shows signs of warping and buckling quickly. Common issues after an in-home flood include some of the following challenges.

Contaminated Water Safety

When a tree limb breaks a window, the water that enters the home generally poses no threat unless it has been more than 24-hours since the incident. Groundwater is another story. This type of water picks up everything it encounters along the way and frequently has mud and sewage when it enters homes. SERVPRO technicians have the equipment to test the water to determine the nature of any toxins or chemicals present and choose the appropriate cleaning agents to disinfect the home.

Mold Prevention

With the elevated humidity, naturally occurring airborne mold spores have the potential to germinate and quickly spread. SERVPRO technicians carry a mold remediation certification #MRSR2994. They know the early warning signs of a mold infestation and how to halt the growth and establishment of colonies through the use of chemical agents and the establishment of drying goals. 

Controlled Demolition and Rebuilding

Removal of carpet, padding, and sometimes tile to dry the subfloor is standard with flood loss. When sheetrock receives water damage, the technicians perform flood cuts to open up the wall cavities for complete drying. With their contractor license #CBC1261730, in many cases, they can offer reconstruction services to rebuild the property and restore it to its preloss condition. 

Contact SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at (954) 776-2000 to restore your property from storm and flood damage. The technicians have the skills, equipment, and experience to make the water loss "Like it never even happened."

To find out more about Plantation, click here.

Professional Tips for Cleaning Your Flood Damaged Plantation Residence

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Mold is a secondary issue from water damage. Quick mitigation reduces the risk of mold growth.

Why Plantation Property Owners Should Outsource Flood Damage Cleanup 

While the Fort Lauderdale area is no stranger to hurricanes and flash flooding, the residents also know fast cleanup is essential to lessening damage to their homes.  

Upon arrival to a Plantation home with flood damage, SERVPRO technicians immediately scope the property to determine all areas that require water removal. Techs use both visual observation and specialized moisture detection equipment throughout the worksite.  

Damage from Groundwater

Of all the types of water damage in a home, groundwater has the probability of delivering the most loss to a house. Everything the water rushes through on its way to the home gets picked up, and that can include debris, toxins, and sometimes sewage which leaves a smelly, sludgy mess in the house.  

Carpet Does Not Usually Fare Well

In many types of home water damage situations, the carpet has restoration possibilities through cleaning applications. When a carpet receives saturation by groundwater, there are no cleaning methods to adequately restore it to the hygienic levels required for safe reuse.  

Unless You Have Protective Gear-Do Not Touch It

Homeowners should not come into contact with groundwater. There is a reason it carries a rating as a category three biohazard. SERVPRO technicians test the water to determine the nature of any contaminants and take the appropriate mitigation methods while wearing personal protection gear.  

No Stress About Secondary Issues

Even an inch of water in the home has the potential to leave a devastating amount of damage. Mold is a common issue after flood loss to a home. Because airborne mold spores need only warmth, moisture, and food such as paper or sheetrock, this part of the state is at significant risk for the development of mold colonies. SERVPRO technicians have Mold Remediation certification #MRSR2994 and know the early signs of infestation so they can act to inhibit the growth and spread of mold through proactive treatments. 

At the first sign of flood damage to your home, contact SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at (954) 776-2000. Whether it is a single room or a whole house affected, our technicians are ready to make the damage to your home, "Like it never even happened."

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How to Remove Flood Water From Your Plantation Home

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

Did the recent storms bring water into your home? No worries! SERVPRO is on the job!

Extraction Equipment Used to Mitigate Plantation Area Flooding 

We have multiple machines and tools that can help us to contend with flooding that remains a present threat for Plantation homes and businesses. Even with reinforced structures and installed diversion implements, avoiding the effects of flooding can be a challenge for specific areas of the property. Our technicians have experience with addressing multiple facets of flood recovery, including efficient extraction solutions. With each disaster being different, our approach to restoring the damage must change accordingly. 

With many machines capable of removing excess water after flood damage in Plantation homes, it becomes a matter of technician discretion as to which equipment is ideal for the current situation. A common choice for water removal is the submersible pumps. These require electricity to run, and we can supply temporary power solutions to properties in the dark with our portable generators that arrive with our SERVPRO Green Fleet of service vehicles and production trailers. 

With substantial water loss incidents that affect broad areas of the home, our technicians often select to use our rapid and powerful extraction solutions like the truck-mounted pumps. These tools are among the most efficient in our industry and can remove water at a rate of up to 300 psi. Our extractor truck rolls out with the Green Fleet to flooded destinations, making this tool accessible and on-site for our technicians combatting spreading water effects in the house. 

Also, our SERVPRO team has other portable extraction tools and specialized equipment, including our wet-vacs with extraction wands and our weighted extractors to help reduce the oversaturation of carpeted areas. Once our removal of all standing water occurs, our experienced team can get to work on other vital mitigation efforts like drying and cleanup.  

You cannot predict the severity or the likelihood of disasters like flooding taking place, but you do have a choice in the team that you choose to help you get things back to normal. Our SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South professionals can help with premier recovery solutions and equipment designed to make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (954) 776-2000.

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Ft. Lauderdale Storm Water Removal, Disinfecting, and Restoration--All Done by SERVPRO

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

The Green Fleet from SERVPRO Mitigates Storm Damage in Ft. Lauderdale Properties--and FAST!

Get Flood Damage Restoration for Your Ft. Lauderdale Home

Many homeowners live close to or in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). Flooding can occur in homes in such areas. Runoffs may bring contaminants like oil, chemicals, debris, and sewage into your home and cause severe damage, especially if you do not take steps to dry your property quickly.

If there is flood damage in your Ft. Lauderdale home, it is critical to begin the cleanup and dry out process without delay to salvage as many items as possible. A company that is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to offer flood restoration services can be of great help to you. SERVPRO is one such firm, and our technicians offer flood cleanup services using state-of-the-art water removal, drying, and restoration equipment.
 
Our IICRC certified technicians can use shop vacuums to suck up all the water that’s present in your home. We can rotate the shop vacs around the rooms to reach all the affected areas. The time this step takes varies based on the substrate we are drying, the total amount of water present and the size of a room or rooms. For large quantities of stagnant water, we can deploy our truck-mounted pump or submersible pumps.
 
Once we remove the standing water, we begin the drying process. We use air movers to circulate airflow throughout the rooms. We can position air movers at specific sections of the walls to ensure that air gets to the most saturated parts of a room. Walls behind cabinets typically take more time to dry because of the several layers of drywall and the back of cabinets. In that case, our technicians can drill holes into the drywall to make it easier for the air to circulate. After we complete the drying process, we repair the holes drilled in the walls. The level of the contaminants also dictates if a controlled demolition is required for any non-salvageable building materials.
 
Our SERVPRO technicians also use dehumidification equipment to eliminate moisture that could lead to additional damage like mold growth. We use different dehumidifiers depending on the severity of the water damage. For larger residential water restoration jobs, we can use the large-loss electric desiccant dehumidifier which is mounted on a trailer. We also carry an assortment of LGR low grain refrigerant and portable desiccant equipment.
 
When flood water has entered your home, SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South can help you extract it and restore your home to its preloss condition. Contact us at (954) 776-2000 for restoration services. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

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When Your Fort Lauderdale Property Suffers Damage From A Flood, Our Crew Can Help!

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Our experts want to help you by making it “Like it never even happened.”

Floods And Storms Leave Fort Lauderdale Properties In Need Of Cleaning Crews

During a storm, rain and wind move both water and other things around outside your home, leaving debris from nearby streets, businesses, and other homes in your yard. When this becomes overburdening to homeowners in Fort Lauderdale, they call a professional service like SERVPRO to make things beautiful again.

Instead of doing the work themselves and taking unnecessary risks in cleaning their properties, many decide that a team of flood damage specialists in Fort Lauderdale can save them time and money instead. Because we are a local business, we can also arrive Faster to Any Size Disaster, and get the work done more efficiently than doing it yourself. No project is ever too large or small for us, nor too messy or complicated. Our IICRC training and certification assure you of our team's skills.

When storms pass through our area, the scent left behind often ignores the fact that wind-blown detritus does not belong in your flower beds, nor wrapped around the tender branches of your young saplings. We come prepared with the tools that let us work quickly without damaging any of your property or the landscaping you have worked so hard to maintain.

Exterior structures of your home and other buildings like garages, sheds, or pool houses can also sustain damages during stormy weather. Cleaning and making minor repairs prevent things from becoming worse and gives you an expert eye for possible problems before they become more severe and costly for you. These include gutters, screen doors and windows, siding, and fencing around your property.

Ensuring your Rio Vista, Sailboat Bend, or Davie home continues to provide your family and guests with a safe and secure setting means a lot to us. Call SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at our 24-hour service line, (954) 776-2000 to hear more about how we can help you restore and maintain things after storms and minor flood damage leave your property a mess. Our experts want to help you by making it “Like it never even happened.”

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Our Fast Response Is Crucial In Restoring Your Flood Damaged Home In Davie To Pre-Damage Condition

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Just reach out to us at (954) 776-2000, and we will make your home look “Like it never even happened.”

Swift Response When Your Home In Davie Floods

When you think of the safety of your home in Davie, you may not think of flooding as a concern. In Florida, we tend to worry more about keeping natural disasters such as hurricanes outside of our home, not focusing on what to do if we are suddenly flooded. In reality, proximity to a canal, backed up sewers or a torrential downpour are all risk factors and knowing what to can make all the difference to the damage you sustain.

If ever your home in Davie sustains flood damage, SERVPRO is your best ally in bringing your home back to its original condition. Our training and expertise help us apply industry best practices to the restoration process, which can cut down the time and expense associated with recovering from this crisis. For example, we review with you the contents of your home and decide on those that need to be relocated to avoid further damage, those that are not salvageable and those that can be salvaged without being moved. Our experts apply a variety of techniques to address the specific need of each surface.

As we move through your property, we make a plan to extract water and quickly begin the drying process. By using air movers, anti-humidifiers and other equipment focused on water evaporation; we can start addressing other needs. Our SERVPRO team pays close attention to any hidden pockets of water that may become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, and we carefully eliminate and disinfect them to prevent further growth. We also address structural issues, like the warping of hardwood floors and removal of carpets. When flood waters come in touch with porous materials such as upholstery and rugs, these are typically removed due to the contaminated nature of the water entering your home. Our team can assist and advice throughout this process, always keeping your health and safety in mind.

SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South is a phone call away when disaster strikes. Well beyond the elimination of water and drying of your property, we are your trusted team in anticipating negative consequences. Just reach out to us at (954) 776-2000, and we will make your home look “Like it never even happened.”

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How Our Team In Fort Lauderdale Will Make Your Flood Damage Disaster “Like it never even happened.”

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

After removing the water, SERVPRO restoration specialists can begin work cleaning and remediating the effects of the contaminated water.

Remediating Flood Damage To Fort Lauderdale Neighborhoods

Although much of the water damage to Fort Lauderdale homes comes from failed plumbing, the sudden rush of water from a storm can cause more physical damage. There is also the contamination that floodwater brings into a home which needs quick removal and cleaning.

Fort Lauderdale homes with flood damage need a company that can work both issues. SERVPRO restoration crews train extensively to quickly remove water and eliminate the threat left behind by soil, animal feces, and other contaminants. Because of the increased threat, they start by spraying every surface with an anti-bacterial agent. This action immediately reduces the threat to not just our personnel, but also to the homeowner and anyone else that might need access to the home.

Now, they begin removing the floodwater and any affected property. The first tools our teams use are pumps and extraction wands. Both devices can quickly draw water off floors and out of the home. With the pumps, they direct the water into the nearest sewer opening. If the drains are temporarily blocked, team members pump the contaminated water into a tank truck for delivery to a water treatment plant.

After removing the water, SERVPRO restoration specialists can begin work cleaning and remediating the effects of the contaminated water. Team members use cleaning agents with an anti-bacterial chemical to wash away soil and other matter left by the water. To ensure they get all of it, team members use long-handled squeegees to push the last traces off floors and out the nearest doorway. We cannot, however, 100% guarantee that our efforts can return a carpet to a safe, clean condition. For those caught in a flood, we only recommend disposal.

Flooding also contaminates building material like drywall. If the panels remain intact, technicians can wash them down with a cleaning agent to try and preserve them. If there is any damage, the cost to try and restore them is higher than replacing them. If the homeowner wants to save time, our teams replace every panel the floodwater touched.

Our goal at SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South is to return your home to its pre-flood condition as quickly as we can safely do it. If you have flood damage now or want to eliminate the threat in the future, call us today at (954) 776-2000. We are here for you.

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How Our Technicians Make Flood Damage In Plantation A Thing Of The Past

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

If you feel that rainfall has been unusually heavy or regular over the past few months, be on the lookout for flash floods.

What Can Cause A Small Storm To Produce Flood Damage In Plantation?

While some storms (such as hurricanes) that cause flood damage in Plantation and surrounding communities can be easy to identify days in advance, many of our calls come from homeowners caught completely off-guard by relatively minor storms that somehow produce enough rainfall to flood their homes. Unfortunately, there's no way to tell whether or not a storm is likely to flood a property, and the best strategy is often to just maintain a constant state of preparedness in anticipation of any potential damages.

Prior Rainfall
Many people know that recent heavy rainfall can cause the soil to become saturated and lead to flood damage in Plantation and other communities, but what they often fail to consider is how much rain has fallen over a more extended period. The rain that regularly falls over several months can eventually become too much for the soil to bear, causing a relatively light individual storm to produce flooding. If you feel that rainfall has been unusually heavy or regular over the past few months, be on the lookout for flash floods.

Wind Patterns
Sometimes, it is not the rain that causes flooding so much as the wind. Strong wind currents can blow streams and bodies of water over their banks, leading to a wave of flooding around the water source. Moderate to strong rainfall coupled with powerful winds can be a devastating combination to your home.

Nearby Structures and Terrain
Any time a plot of land is developed or demolished around your home, or if natural areas experience a significant change, it can have the potential to place your home in a new danger zone for flooding. These changes could be permanent or as short-lived as a few weeks, but regardless of how long they remain in place, you should be wary of possible hazards. Be especially watchful for events such as wildfires or brush clearings that can change the soil composition and packing around your home.

SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South stands ready on a 24/7 basis to respond to calls for help from people in the local area who suffer at the hands of flood damage. Call our experts at the first sign of trouble at (954) 776-2000.

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Flood Damage Indicates the Saturation of Your Ft. Lauderdale Home in Hazardous Category 3 Water

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South, we are here to help and here to serve.

Dealing with Flood Damage Issues? SERVPRO Has Your Back

Interspersed with bodies of water, Ft. Lauderdale has many different types of recreational activities for families. New construction of roads and business areas change the terrain in many ways, sometimes making new pathways for rainwater to get to those bodies of water.

Unfortunately, sometimes these changes cause the rainwater to fail to reach a lake or river before it causes flood damage to someone's Ft. Lauderdale home. If this happens to your home, SERVPRO can help you by providing services that mitigate the damage and stop preventable damages from becoming an additional nightmare. The IICRC classifies floodwater as Category 3, the worst type possible. Sewage and toilet backups also fall into this same classification, showing the foulness of this water.

SERVPRO's mitigation experts can restore your home so not only does the water disappear, but we also remove the many hidden dangers, as well. Pathogens, organic material, and chemicals that washed into your residence can create odors, also. After our Odor Control Technician (OCT) completes work focused on destroying smells caused by remnant particles, restored homes once again smell "Like it never even happened."

Belongings affected by the flood that you point out to our crew can receive priority care, so we restore these first. Doing so can help your family while dwelling with relatives or other temporary location by providing at least a partial sense of normalcy. Other belongings still receive timely treatment to ensure that they become pathogen-free again and safe for your use.

Removing the water, cleaning your home, and airing things out so mold fails to grow and water damage never develops beyond the initial stages help to save you substantial costs. It also helps assure you that moving back into your home soon after can become a soon-realized event, and help your family fully recover from the disaster.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South can be contacted at (954) 776-2000 whenever you have an emergency involving flood damage. We always answer our phone, 24/7, every day of the year. Please call us, so we can help your family by professionally mitigating the damage and eliminating the risks to your family.

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Flood Damage and Cleanup in Your Fort Lauderdale Home

4/8/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding can happen very quickly. When you and your family are safe, it is time to contact SERVPRO for drying out and remediation services.

Team SERVPRO Quickly Dries Out Your Flooded Property

While longer days and warmer weather come with Spring, the season also brings conditions such as heavy rains which could increase your risk for a flood in Fort Lauderdale. Spring storms can bring several inches of rain in only a few hours, or they can stall out over one area for several days. These heavy rains can bring severe flooding by overwhelming the ground, overflowing storm drains, or causing rivers to spill out of their banks or levees.
 
When the rains in your area have caused flooding in your Fort Lauderdale home, you are left with quite a mess on your hands, no matter how much water got inside. Flooding and flood damage completely disrupts your daily life and is something that needs to be attended to right away. Let our SERVPRO staff help you get the water out and dry your residence and possessions so you can return to your normal life.
 
Even after we are done getting all the water out of your property, our job is not done. Structural items, like subfloors and walls, may require cleaning. We use professional products to make your home look as good, if not better; then it was before the flooding.
 
SERVPRO staff clean and deodorize any carpeting which was exposed to the floodwaters. We choose a carpet cleaning method which is appropriate for the level of soiling. We look at things such as if the dirt is primarily on the fiber tips or if it is ground down into the fibers, if the carpet fibers are very matted, and if they stiff and sticky. We have various methods of cleaning we use depending on how severe the soiling was. In the case of grey water where we are salvaging the carpet, we use a more aggressive method.
 
Most of the time, we need to clean other items in your home as well. All contents exposed to water or high humidity need to be evaluated for cleaning needs. Some wood furniture requires cleaning and polishing after exposure to high humidity. We also check clothing, closets, and storage areas for contents that need cleaning and deodorizing. All photographs and wall hangings are also checked for damage from condensation and high humidity. When it comes to electronics, they can require unique drying and cleaning services to restore them, so we recruit the help of other professionals.
 
SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South wants to make sure your entire home in Pembroke Pines, Davie, or Weston is dry and clean before we say that our job is done. Give us a call at (954) 776-2000 as soon as you need us so we can help you.

Click here for more information on the city of Fort Lauderdale.

What to do After a Flood Damage to Your Plantation Home?

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

If you experience flood damage, the first step is to make sure you and your family are safe.

Steps to Take Before the Professionals Arrive

Whether it is due to a storm or heavy rains, flood damage can wreak havoc on your property. It is essential to have a plan in place to ensure your safety and minimize the damage.

Thankfully, professional restoration experts can help you deal with the aftermath of flood damage to your Plantation home. The IICRC certified SERVPRO technicians have the necessary equipment and technical knowledge to get the situation under control. You can do a few things before the professional help arrives after flood damage to your home.

Ensure Your Safety

Safety comes first. Before you do anything, ensure that you and your loved ones are safe and protected. Flooded areas can have many dangers such as unstable structures, unsure footing, and floating debris. Wait for the help to arrive before trying to clean up the mess by yourself.

Call in the Professionals

Once you are safe, the next thing is to call in the professionals to begin the restoration process. SERVPRO technicians can contact you within an hour after we hear from you and within four hours of your call, our technicians can reach you to start the process. A restoration expert can contact you and arrange for the services. We take pride in the fact that We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster!

Assess the Damage, if Possible 

Until the professionals arrive, you can prepare a visual record of the damage caused by the flood. Take many pictures from different angles, if it is possible to take pictures of the damage. It might help you during the insurance negotiations. Make sure that you share your assessment with the restoration experts so that they are aware of the damage.

It can be tempting to start the restoration process before the professionals arrive. However, it is not a particularly great idea. It is much wiser to wait for the technicians to arrive rather than trying to do something on your own.

Call SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at (954) 776-2000 today to schedule an appointment and a free consultation.  

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Dealing with Dreaded Surprises Created by Hurricane Irma in Fort Lauderdale

10/12/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane Irma's Force Gets Cleanup from SERVPRO in Ft. Lauderdale

Hurricane Water Intrusion Leads to Secondary Problems in Homes and Condos

Usually, returning to your winter home in Fort Lauderdale is worth the time spent packing up and winterizing your more northerly residence. Most of the time, the usual preparations made before winter residents travel out of Florida for their summer homes provide enough protection from the fall weather. However, Hurricane Irma slammed into our sunny state with much more force than many expected.
 
This forcefulness may have left your home filled with water. This moisture can allow mold and mildew, along with many other problems, to destroy your Ft. Lauderdale winter home's interior. SERVPRO is a locally owned and operated service and has the professionally trained personnel you need to stop any current damage from worsening. Our 24-hour services include restoration and cleanup of homes, so they look “Like it never even happened,” even after a hurricane.
 
What winter residents should look for upon returning South in their home's interiors include visible mold, dank and heavy odors, and saturation that might occur anywhere in the home. Carpets might contain water that stays hidden until someone walks across the room. Mattresses and upholstered furniture easily harbor enough moisture for mold to grow, often rendering these pieces unsafe for future use.
 
Knowing the difference between saturation from rainwater or flooding helps immensely. With hurricane-force winds, rain can enter through the cracks in or around windows rather rapidly. Boarding up often helps, but these boards can splinter under the stress recently seen, and then, instead of protecting them, shatter the windows.
 
Flooding can bring in pathogens that threaten health with severe, even deadly illnesses. SERVPRO's technicians receive training in Applied Microbial Remediation (AMRT), and they can quickly determine the presence of pathogenic activity. When a home is protected by barriers, as in the case of boarding up, floodwaters may not carry in larger, tell-tale signs, such as debris. However, the microbes, being tiny, may seem non-existent and unimportant.
 
Our equipment can pinpoint the level of microbial activity and populations. We then take action to remove these from your home. Infections and illnesses can affect people, but mold and mildew damage a home quickly, making it an unlivable mess. Water extraction done quickly is the key to mitigating physical damage and potential health hazards.
 
Coming back to a watery home can wreck your peace of mind instead of being the home-away-from-home you expected. SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South is always available to take your call, so the damage done by Hurricane Irma is minimized. Call our local number, (954) 776-2000, as soon as you discover that your home is affected by a disaster.

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Detecting and Protecting Yourself From Flood damage in Fort Lauderdale After a storm

9/8/2017 (Permalink)

You can count on SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South to take care of your home after flood damage hits.

Protect your Fort Lauderdale Home From Flood Damage

It is during storms that people get to witness the true destructive power of water. When they strike Fort Lauderdale, these natural disasters can cause strong winds, heavy rains, and ultimately, house floods. The results on your property can be devastating, to say the least, depending on the size and intensity of the storm. If the excess water finds its way into the house, it can damage important documents, furniture, upholstery, electrical equipment, and even structural materials.

When the floodwaters recede, trying to pick up the pieces can seem exhausting. Having access to a water damage restoration company in Fort Lauderdale can help ease the cleanup process. This is where SERVPRO comes into play. We have many years of experience offering flood damage cleanup services, as well as highly trained, IICRC-approved technicians ready to return your home to preloss conditions as quickly as possible.

It is hard to predict when a storm is going to occur, and whether it can cause flood damage. When it hits, the first thing you need to do is check for visible structural damage, such as cracks, holes, or warping. If you suspect damage to electric, gas, water, and sewer line, SERVPRO can come in and do the repairs.

The garage is one of the most overlooked places when checking for flooding after a storm. Assessing water damage in this space involves considering elements such as humidity, signs of mold and mildew, condensation droplets on the walls, pipes, and floor, as well as discoloration on certain surfaces and materials.

Most damage from flooding is caused by the impact of fast moving waters. The flood pushes against your home, compromising its structural integrity and in some cases, separating it from its foundation. Floodwaters also penetrate deep into the earth, where they can cause severe damage. They can shift and break load-bearing strata, causing significant foundational damage.

If you confirm the presence of water damage in your home, be sure to contact SERVPRO immediately. In the meantime, check whether the building is safe to stay in and if not, evacuate right away. Keep in mind that flooding can cause other damages such as gas and electrical hazards, which can also compromise your safety.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

For quick flood damage restoration services, you can always count on SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South. We are locally based and pride ourselves as part of your community. Our services are available to all residents of Ft. Lauderdale South, Davie, Plantation, and surrounding areas. For any assistance, call us anytime at (954) 776-2000.

For more information regarding the city of Fort Lauderdale, click here. 

Save Your Rain-Soaked Carpets from the Curb with Professional Carpet Drying in Fort Lauderdale

7/8/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Removes Water and Cleans Carpets for Ft. Lauderdale Homeowners

SERVPRO Mitigates Losses to Your Ft. Lauderdale Home's Water Damaged Carpets

Some of our area's storms are stronger than others and have been known to cause structural damage to the exterior that permitted additional damage to occur to the interior of the home. Rainwater entering your home through a slightly opened window might dry quickly, but a skylight that has not been installed correctly or shingles that have been torn away can allow a much larger amount of rain to ruin your carpeting.
 
Many of Fort Lauderdale's homes are susceptible to damage from rain water when these mishaps occur, resulting in ruined flooring below, but SERVPRO can help by performing professional carpet drying techniques following the guidelines of the IICRC. Carpets that remain fairly uncontaminated from external sources can be salvaged if the restoration process begins soon after the storm is over. SERVPRO is well-known for being Faster To Any Size Disaster, helping reduce the damage that is caused by the combination of the initial incident and a ticking clock. Waiting to respond to any disaster your home experiences only allows the damage to increase, and carpets soaked by rain can be one of the worst disasters a home might have.
 
Wet carpeting can lead to other kinds of damage. These can include mold growth, structural deficiencies in the underlay, absorption of moisture by more porous materials in the area, seeping of water into lower levels of the home, and warping or bubbling of the carpeting itself. Drying the wet carpeting can prevent these situations from becoming a reality, and save the carpet, also. Replacing carpets and padding can be much more expensive than restoring them. However, waiting any significant length of time can allow the padding underneath the carpeting to become too damaged, requiring it to be replaced.
 
When carpets have become waterlogged, care should be taken so that walking through the area is done. This can push water down further into the carpet pad, destroying it further. When we arrive, we assess the situation to determine which procedure is best for that home. We first extract as much of the water as possible in a process that is very similar to having the carpets cleaned. This water may seem very dirty, but it is only soil that was already present.
 
Because some carpeting types can more easily stretch due to their fiber content or the glue that is used for the backing, the rest of the drying process might be completed at our facility. If this is the case, we ensure that all carpet strips and tacks are safely removed from locations where they can cause injury.
 
Other times, allowing the carpet to dry with the use of air movers while still partially attached is the least intrusive and disruptive method. In the industry, this is known as "floating a carpet." Opting for this approach requires close monitoring of the carpeting to ensure that warping does not take place. For either method, we use dehumidifiers and heaters to ensure that all types of absorbent underlays (wood floors, particle board panels, and the like) are dried fully. After the carpet is completely dry again, sanitizing and deodorizing follows. Carpeting is left like new again.
 
For disasters involving rain-soaked carpets, call SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale South at (954) 776-2000 for carpet drying. Always ready to take your call, we can answer any other questions or concerns you have about how we can save your carpets from being destroyed.

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Carpet Drying Methods In Fort Lauderdale

2/10/2017 (Permalink)

If water is not removed immediately, your carpet can be ruined.

Carpet Drying Techniques

When it comes to clean-up after one of Florida's tropical storms or some other type of water damage, one of the most important is restoring carpets to their original state. If this is not accomplished soon enough or if it is not done properly, the cost to a homeowner can quickly grow into thousands of dollars in replacement costs.

SERVPRO understands how important carpet drying is to Fort Lauderdale. The faster our technicians correctly do their job, the faster our customers can return to their homes and lives. This is why SERVPRO experts do their best to determine the best method needed. In many cases, this is what we call in-place drying. There are three key advantages to this method.

1) The occupants of the home are much less disrupted. Pulling up carpeting (even temporarily) adds many hours and perhaps even days to the process.

2) The furniture will not need to be removed from the room. A technician can stack it in the middle while removing the water from the edges and working his way inward; moving it to the dried areas as he moves inward.

3) The carpet suffers much less damage when it does not have to be reinstalled, or seams have to be resealed.

In-place drying is not always an option, however. There are a number of situations where it is necessary for us to remove the carpet and even replace the padding underneath in order to restore the home to its pre-damage state.

1) The carpet has been flooded or otherwise exposed to water for longer than 72 hours.

2) Mold or other biological contamination is discovered in the carpet.

3) The pad underneath is made of an organic material such as animal hair or jute (also used in making burlap).

4) The carpet has been installed over hardwood or laminated flooring.

SERVPRO of Fort Lauderdale South strives to make sure our customers can return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. We also work hard to do this in as economical a manner as well. If you have or suspect you have water damage to your carpets, call us today at (954) 776-2000.