The Role of Dehumidifiers in Water Damage Restoration

2/16/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Trailer Mount Dehumidifier at a restoration project in Smyrna, TN

Water damage can be a nightmare for any homeowner or business owner. It can cause extensive damage to the property, and the restoration process can be time-consuming and expensive. However, with the right equipment, such as dehumidifiers, the process can be made much easier and more effective.

What is Water Damage Restoration?

Water damage restoration is the process of restoring a property to its preloss condition after it has been damaged by water. The process involves several steps, including water extraction, drying, and dehumidification. The goal of water damage restoration is to prevent further damage and to restore the property to its preloss condition.

The Role of Dehumidifiers in Water Damage Restoration:

Dehumidifiers are an essential tool in the water damage restoration process. They help to remove excess moisture from the air and prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Dehumidifiers work by pulling in moist air and removing the moisture from it, then blowing out dry air. They can be used in conjunction with air movers and fans to speed up the drying process.

Benefits of Using Dehumidifiers:

Using dehumidifiers in the water damage restoration process has several benefits. Firstly, they help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause health problems for occupants of the property. They also help to prevent further damage to the property by removing excess moisture from the air. In addition, dehumidifiers can help to reduce the drying time, which can save time and money in the restoration process.

What are Some Types of Dehumidifiers Used in Water Damage Restoration?

There are several types of dehumidifiers used in property damage restoration. Some common types include:

1. Refrigerant Dehumidifiers:These dehumidifiers work by cooling the air and removing moisture from it, similar to how an air conditioner works. They are commonly used for residential and commercial applications.
2. Desiccant Dehumidifiers:These dehumidifiers use a desiccant material, such as silica gel or activated alumina, to absorb moisture from the air. They are commonly used in industrial and commercial settings.
3. Low Grain Refrigerant (LGR) Dehumidifiers:These dehumidifiers are similar to refrigerant dehumidifiers, but they are designed to handle lower moisture levels and can be more effective at removing moisture from the air.
4. Ventilation Dehumidifiers:These dehumidifiers work by exchanging moist air for drier air from outside. They are commonly used in areas where there is a lot of outdoor air available, such as in crawl spaces.

The type of dehumidifier used will depend on the specific conditions of the water damage restoration project, such as the size of the affected area, the severity of the damage, and the type of materials affected. That is why our SERVPRO restoration technicians are trained to calculate and install the right type and number of dehumidifiers needed for each specific project.

What is the ideal air moisture level to prevent mold growth or bacterial growth?

The ideal air moisture level in a home to prevent mold growth or bacterial growth is between 30% to 50% relative humidity (RH). High levels of humidity, above 60% RH, can promote the growth of mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms, while low levels of humidity, below 30% RH, can cause dryness and discomfort for occupants. Maintaining the humidity level within the ideal range can help prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, while also providing a comfortable living environment. Using a hygrometer, a tool for measuring humidity, can help homeowners monitor and maintain the ideal humidity level in their homes.

What is the average moisture level difference between the input of air and output of air of a dehumidifier during a water damage restoration project?

The average moisture level difference between the input of air and output of air of a dehumidifier during a water damage restoration project can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the area, the severity of the water damage, and the type of dehumidifier used.

However, as a general guideline, a typical dehumidifier can remove 10-20 pints of water per day from a 500-1000 square feet area. This means that the moisture level difference between the input and output of air of a dehumidifier can be around 10-20 pints of water per day, or around 5-10 liters of water per day.

It is important to note that the actual moisture level difference can vary depending on the specific conditions of the water damage restoration project, and it is best to consult with a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Rutherford County to determine the appropriate type and number of dehumidifiers needed for the specific project.

Conclusion:

Dehumidifiers play a crucial role in the water damage restoration process. They help to remove excess moisture from the air, prevent the growth of mold and mildew, and reduce the drying time. If you need water damage restoration services, make sure that the company you choose has the necessary equipment, including dehumidifiers, to ensure a quick and effective restoration.

Thankfully, our SERVPRO team has the right equipment for any type of project. So, whether your single-family home or multi-story commercial building experiences water damage, our SERVPRO team has the expertise and equipment to get your business restored quickly like it never even happened.

Call us at (615) 849-9794 for 24/7/365 support.

We’re always here to help.

Fire Damage: How It Affects Electrical Wiring in Your Home or Business

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

No matter how bad the fire damage may be, your local experts at SERVPRO of Rutherford County are ready to help you immediately when you need us!

If your home or business experiences a fire, the last thing you want to worry about is the electrical wiring and cables. Unfortunately, this is something that you will need to deal with as part of the fire damage restoration process. Electrical wiring can be damaged by high heat, smoke, and soot from a fire, and can cause dangerous situations if not repaired properly. In this blog post, we will discuss how fire damage affects electrical wiring and what you need to do to restore it safely.

In modern-day homes, you will most likely run into two types of electrical wiring. Copper is the most common type and is found in most homes built before 1990. Aluminum wiring was more popular in homes built from the 1960s to the 1980s, and is now less common due to its tendency to overheat and spark fire damage.

Copper melts at 1984°F, and the temperature of a house fire can reach temperatures as high as 3000°F-3500°F.

However, the real problem when it comes to electrical fire damage is the plastic insulation and jacketing that surrounds the wires and electrical cables. These are typically designed to survive temperatures up to 194°F, which is well below average temperatures in a house fire.

So as the temperature of a house fire rises, the plastic begins to expand, stretch out, and melt. This non-conductive plastic coating is meant to prevent wires from touching each other and causing a spark or short-circuit. However, once the coating is melted, it can no longer serve its purpose, and wires can easily touch each other, creating a dangerous spark.

This is why your local fire restoration experts at SERVPRO of Rutherford County carefully assess property damage to determine how hot the fire could have become in different areas of your home. This way, our fire repair experts can be sure to remove exactly what is needed.

In addition to the fire itself, smoke from a fire can also cause damage to electrical wiring. Smoke contains soot and other debris that can coat the wiring and insulation, causing it to deteriorate over time due to smoke's naturally acidic nature.

That is why our trained fire restoration technicians make sure to carefully clean up all smoke damage after a fire because damage may occur much later on.

If your home or business has been affected by a fire, our technicians are ready to respond immediately.

Call today! (615) 849-9794

Tips to Stay Safe during Fire Damage: SERVPRO of Rutherford County

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

No matter how serious your property damage may be, SERVPRO of Rutherford County is your local expert for restoring your home or business.

It's that time of year again - fire season in Rutherford County, TN, and surrounding areas. Between February and May, the weather gets hotter and drier, while the risk of house fires rises. A fire may start from a variety of sources, ranging from a faulty wire to an overloaded outlet to a kitchen mishap to a bonfire left unattended. It's critical to know how to react quickly and effectively if your home catches fire.

Here's What You Need To Know If A Fire Starts: 

The first line of defense against a house fire is to know how to use the proper fire extinguisher for the situation. This simple procedure can help save lives and hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage. If the fire spreads uncontrollably, evacuate immediately and stay away, then call 9-1-1. Leave all of your belongings where they are and save yourself and your loved ones.

If your clothing ignites, remember the old adage: Stop, Drop, and Roll.

It's critical to utilize the stairs if you live in a building with elevators in case of a fire. The elevator electrical system may be damaged by a fire, causing the shaft to operate like a chimney and rapidly fill up with deadly fumes.

Doors may be used to your advantage in a fire, potentially saving your life. If the doorknob or handle is hot, don't open it. If you can't exit through the primary route, look for another option. Do not open any doors that are warm to the touch.

Close any doors that might obstruct your exits, lay a wet towel beneath the doors, and call the fire department or 9-1-1 if flames, heat, or fire block your avenues of escape. Tell them exactly where you are so they can find you.

If you're near a window that you can't use as an escape, open it and wave a brightly colored cloth or use your phone flashlight to signal for help.

What To Do After a Fire

After a fire, it is important to contact a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Rutherford County. We have the training, experience, and equipment to properly restore your home - "Like it never even happened."

If you try to clean up the fire damage yourself, you could end up making the situation worse both in your home and with your insurance company's process.

Trust the experts, and call today!

Spring Storms and Weather Events in the United States | SERVPRO® of Rutherford County

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to severe weather. SERVPRO of Rutherford County is a click away if you experience any damage.

Because the United States is one of the world's most significant countries, it has a vast and varied terrain. As a consequence, seasonal weather in the United States isn't uniform—different portions of the country face varying types of weather conditions, which leads to different levels of weather concerns for various locations.

Let's take a look at the weather patterns that can form as spring approaches and warm and cold air masses collide across the country—and what we may learn from them in Tennessee.

From December through April, the Pacific Northwest is prone to heavy rain, which might cause flooding and water damage. Snow will continue to build at higher elevations as the season progresses, bringing difficulties of its own owing to melting and runoff.

The Upper Midwest and Northeast have the longest winter season, with temperatures remaining below freezing for the majority of it. People can anticipate ice storms, blizzards, and even significant snowfall until late spring or early summer in Maine to Minnesota.

Extreme heat waves, on the other hand, will be a major problem in the Southwest and southern West Coast. The possibility of tsunamis produced by tectonic activity in the South Pacific region, including Hawaii, will be high on watch.

From Iowa to Texas, the center of the country will need to be on guard for windstorms, derechos and the prospect of wildfires, which might swiftly spread due to strong winds and arid conditions. Tornado Alley is especially vulnerable to tornadoes, with a large part of this region being known as such.

Finally, throughout the Southeast, we can anticipate a wide range weather events, ranging from thunderstorms and tornadoes in low-lying regions to early-season hurricanes along the shoreline later in the spring. Late-season snow has hit numerous locations in Middle Tennessee.

Extreme weather can happen in any part of the United States. While it varies from state to state, being aware and prepared for severe weather is never a bad idea.

Help is only a phone call or an email away if extreme weather causes you property damage from water, fire, or other forces. For local, rapid, professional restoration, contact SERVPRO of Rutherford County. We are always Here to Help.

5 Types of Water Damage Testing Equipment: SERVPRO of Rutherford County

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rutherford County is ready to respond to your water damage restoration call immediately when you need us. Call today!

Because water damage can often reach areas you can't even see, our SERVPRO of Rutherford County technicians use several types of testing equipment to help you restore your property damage in Murfreesboro, TN and throughout Rutherford County "Like it never even happened." This equipment is used to analyze environmental conditions, test all types of building materials for potential water damage, and track the drying efficiency of the emergency water damage restoration process. Here are a few of the machines our team utilizes:

1. Moisture Meters: Moisture meters are one of the most common pieces of water testing equipment. These meters such as the Dri-Eaz Protimeter SurveyMaster measure the moisture level of an environment or material and provide a digital reading on the device's screen. By using moisture meters, our technicians can quickly test whether any materials in your home are affected by water damage so they can then begin taking steps to dry them out. They are used to test everything from drywall, wood, siding, tile, insulation, carpeting, and everything in between.
2. Voltage Meters: Because emergency water damage restoration equipment can require significant electrical power, voltage meters are used to ensure that the equipment is being operated safely. These meters measure the voltage of an electrical circuit and help our technicians avoid any potentially hazardous situations.
3. Thermometers: In order to better understand how water damage is affecting different areas of your property, our team uses thermometers to take temperature readings both inside and outside of walls, floors, the air inside and outside of the affected areas, and more. Temperature is an important part of our local water damage restoration process because it helps our restoration technicians determine and control the speed of the water damage drying process.
4. Infrared Meters: Because Infrared meters see temperature differences between different building materials, they are often used to scan for hidden water damage that might otherwise be missed. A common misconception about Infrared meters such as the Flir E6 is that they are used to see behind walls. This is not the case. However, our SERVPRO of Cherokee County technicians use them along with our other testing equipment to help demonstrate and determine the potential extent of water damage and required removal of affected materials. They can also be used to identify other existing electrical, mechanical, and building issues.
5. Air Sampling Equipment: Air sampling is also an important part of the local water damage restoration process because it helps our SERVPRO of Cherokee County technicians identify and quantify any biohazards in the environment, such as mold spores, lead, pollen, insect parts, skin cell fragments, fibers, and inorganic particulates. By taking air samples inside and outside of the affected areas, our technicians and indoor air quality experts can determine whether or not specialized restoration processes are required.

SERVPRO of Rutherford County is here to help you restore your property damage "Like it never even happened." If you have any questions about our water testing equipment or the emergency water damage restoration process, please don't hesitate to give us a call at (615) 849-9794. We're always happy to help!

4 Ways To Prevent Candle Fires

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Candles are a common cause of fires, particularly when an open flame is left unattended.

Reducing the Risk of Candle Fire

Candles are a common cause of fires, particularly when an open flame is left unattended. The best way to prevent a candle fire is to use a lighting or fragrance alternative without an open flame. Here are four tips for reducing the risk of a candle starting a fire at a residence in Blackman, TN.

1. Use Open-Flame Alternatives

No matter why you use candles, you can probably find a safer alternative. LED candles can be ideal substitutes for decorative or mood lighting purposes. If you enjoy a scent, consider using a candle warmer with your favorite wax candles or other fragrance alternatives such as reed diffusers.

2. Don't Light Candles In a Bedroom

Fires are prone to start whenever people light open flames in a bedroom. Two of the most common fire causes are lit candles and cigarettes. Do not burn anything in a room where you run the risk of falling asleep and leaving a flame unattended.

3. Blow Out Candles Before Leaving a Room

It is very easy to forget that a candle is burning before leaving a room. In addition to the risk of candle fire posed by an unattended open flame, a lit candle can endanger children or pets and pose an increased risk of accidental fire. If you light candles at the dinner table, make sure to blow them out when you clear the table.

4. Keep Combustibles at a Safe Distance

Keep any combustible materials such as bedding, curtains, papers, or upholstery at least 12 inches away from a lit candle. Most candle fires start when a flammable material makes accidental contact with an open flame.

These measures can prevent a candle fire from starting at a residence in Blackman, TN. If a home sustains damage as a result of a fire, contact a restoration service that specializes in fire and smoke cleanup.

Cleaning Up After a Burst or Broken Pipe

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Residential water restoration in Walterhill, TN.

Cleaning Up After a Pipe Burst or Break

Every homeowner winds up with a water accident sooner or later. If it isn’t a broken pipe or a water heater that gives out, it will be a leaky seal or backed up sump pump. That’s just the nature of homeownership. When you are cleaning up after a plumbing emergency that left water in your home in Walterhill, TN, it’s important to understand the steps you need to take to get yourself back on your feet again quickly.

1. Shut Off Your Water Main. Before you bother calling for a plumber to fix the pipe itself, make sure you turn off the water. This will stop incoming water and allow for cleanup if the problem is a plumbing emergency.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company. Most insurance companies cover cleaning services and repair for water damage from plumbing accidents. Your regular plan deductible will apply. Major carriers often preauthorize cleanup services to streamline billing, so give your carrier’s claims line a quick call.

3. Contact a Cleaning Service. Residential water damage cleanup involves removing the water in home areas and dry cleaning the carpet, furniture, and other items in the area. If you have multiple phone lines in your household, calling for a cleaning service in Walterhill, TN, on one line while a family member contacts your insurance company can speed up the entire process.

4. Remove Dry Items. Once you know that help is on the way, it’s time to take dry and unaffected items out of the water damaged areas of the home. That way, the cleanup crew can more easily get to the affected belongings in your home.

5. Contact a Plumber. Cleaning services are not usually plumbing services, so if you have experienced a plumbing emergency, you will need to call for a plumber to fix the problem before turning your water back on.

Remember, while it is important to take care of the broken pipe quickly, water in home living areas continues to do damage until it is properly cleaned up. That’s why it’s important to contact a dry cleaning service right away.

6 Severe Storm Safety Tips

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Hail and strong winds can cause damage that may lead to destructive leaks in your roof.

Storm Safety Tips

Depending on the season and your location, your business may be vulnerable to damage from a variety of weather phenomenon, such as an intense rain storm, tornado or hurricane. When a significant weather event occurs, following several key safety guidelines can help you protect your building and safeguard the wellbeing of your staff.

1. Keep Trees Trimmed

Tree branches can become dangerous objects during strong winds. To minimize the risks of broken windows and roof damage, you should keep trees adjacent to your property neatly trimmed and routinely remove dead branches.

2. Stay Away From Windows and Skylights

Flying debris can easily shatter windows and skylights. As a precaution, everyone should move away from these structures during a severe storm with high winds or hail.

3. Elevate Essential Equipment

A significant rain storm can increase the risk of flooding. If floodwaters enter your building, essential equipment, including components of your HVAC system, may be vulnerable to water damage. To alleviate this concern, you should elevate important devices off the floor.

4. Move to an Internal Room

In the event of a tornado, seeking adequate shelter is essential. Your staff should promptly move to the basement or a windowless, interior room on the lowest level of the building.

5. Avoid Using Electronic Equipment

Because cords conduct electricity, using electronic equipment during a thunderstorm can be dangerous. Staff should shutdown computers and avoid using phones until the storm has passed. As an added precaution, you should utilize surge protectors to safeguard vital equipment from potential damage.

6. Inspect Your Roof

Hail and strong winds can wreak havoc on your building’s roof and cause damage that may lead to destructive leaks and potential mold contamination. For this reason, it’s a good idea to inspect your roof after any storm and promptly commence any necessary repairs.

A severe rain storm can produce damaging high winds and cause extensive flooding. Taking proactive measures can help every business in Lascassas, TN, avert serious injuries and minimize the risk of significant destruction.

How To Create a Fire Contingency Plan for Your Business

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

You should also have plenty of emergency supplies on-hand, including fire extinguishers.

How to Make a Fire-Response Plan for Your Company

Every business in Rockvale, TN, needs to have a contingency plan in place in case an emergency breaks out. A fire can be caused from a number of sources, from electrical appliances to natural events. Before this happens, if it ever does, you should develop an evacuation plan that you review with your employees regularly. That way everyone knows what to do, so panic and confusion can be minimized.

1. Develop a Warning System to Protect Employees

The safety of your employees is of the utmost importance. You should develop a method to contact everyone in the building in case a fire ever breaks out. You should have fire alarms throughout the building, especially if you operate out of a particularly large property. You should also have plenty of emergency supplies on-hand, including fire extinguishers and a first aid kit.

2. Review Insurance Policies

Your contingency plan should also include all information relevant to your insurance policy. This includes information related to whether your policy covers fires at all and how much you stand to receive in reimbursement. If you have not spoken with your insurance agent for a while, then you need to speak with him or her to make sure you are covered for everything. It will help your business get back on its feet more quickly following an emergency.

3. Practice This Plan With Employees

It is a good idea to have practice evacuation drills with your employees so that people know how to respond to a fire. It is also a good idea to hold educational seminars to teach people basic fire safety methods. For example, it is recommended to hold a class teaching people how to properly use a fire extinguisher.

When you create a contingency plan, you hope you will never have to use it. However, it is always preferable to be safe rather than sorry.

3 Facts About Mold

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

Black mold can grow just about anywhere.

Black mold is the boogeyman of many a homeowner. We know it’s unpleasant to look at, but just how much do you know about the real threat mold poses in your Lascassas, TN, home? Read up on these surprising facts about mold to get a real handle on this household menace.

What is Mold Anyway?

Found throughout our environment, mold is a fungus comprised of small organisms. It thrives in moist, dark place, replicating via lightweight spores that are easily dispersed through the air. In homes, mold tends to thrive in:

• Basements
  
• Crawl spaces
  
• Bathrooms
  
• Under sink areas
  

Mold Isn’t Just Black

While the dark kind is most sinister, mold can come in orange, green, purple and even pink or white. This all depends on the organisms making up the mold and that plays a big part in what you do to clean it up. Whatever the color, mold is not something you should ignore in your home.

Mold Is Not Mildew

While the terms mold and mildew are often used together, these are two different things. They’re both fungus. However, while mildew only grows on surfaces, mold has roots that can take hold where the eye can’t see. This is one of the top reasons that it’s so hard to get rid of it - the leftover roots mean it can re-establish itself easily.

You Can’t Get Rid of All Mold Spores

Despite advances in mold cleanup, there’s no true, practical way to eradicate all mold spores in an indoor environment. They’re too light and too numerous. Instead, the answer to preventing black mold growth is controlling moisture. That means staying on top of leaks and drips, cleaning wet materials and preventing condensation.
Black mold can grow just about anywhere, feeding on wood, paper and even carpet in your home. If you’re tired of fighting the fungus, connect with a mold remediation expert to explore your options.