Looking up and seeing a large wet spot on your ceiling, or even worse, a stream of water pouring through, is one of the most frustrating things that can happen to a homeowner. What do you do when your roof is clearly damaged, the insulation in the ceiling is filled with moisture, and dirty water is dripping onto your floor? Well, the answer is actually quite simple: call SERVPRO! Of course, there are some steps you can take to lessen the damage, or even in some cases, repair the area on your own.
If water is spreading across the ceiling, you usually want to actually allow the water through before it spreads through your ceiling and damages a larger area of drywall. It’s better to poke a hole in the ceiling and let water come down through that area, otherwise it will do more damage and be harder to control. Place a bucket and towel underneath the drip area and monitor the situation. You’ll then need to find out the source of the leakage, whether it’s from a compromised roof, a leaky pipe, or something else. You may need to remove part of the ceiling or call a professional to help you.
In order to prevent mold or damage from moisture, you’ll need to remove the affected portion of the ceiling and dry it out with a fan. At SERVPRO, we provide dehumidifiers and professional equipment that will help pinpoint areas of moisture and take care of the issue. You’ll then need to replace the drywall. Of course, we’re happy to help with any of these steps and guarantee your ceiling will be restored at the highest standard. If you have any water damage, whether from a leaky ceiling or a flash flood, SERVPRO of Northbrook / Wheeling / Glencoe is here to help, available 24/7 for emergency services. Give us a call at (847) 498-8889
While we’re more used to dealing with rainstorms, snowstorms can also cause a lot of damage to your home or property. Blizzards are especially high-risk weather phenomena because, along with high winds and heavy snow, freezing temperatures can cause further damage.
Roof damage is one of the worst things that can happen to your home during a blizzard. Heavy snow and winds can cause roofs to collapse under too much weight. Wet snow can be deceptively heavy, and a collapse leads to structural and water damage, which is very expensive to repair. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do about this. When the weather subsides, you can climb onto your roof and brush snow off it (having a spotter and taking all safety precautions involved), but this can be dangerous and sometimes a storm will simply not let up.
Gutter damage is another prevalent issue. When water freezes in your gutters, it mixes with debris and can expand inside them, causing them to break and become ineffective. Cleaning your gutters regularly, and especially before expected snowfall, can prevent damage.
The other major, and perhaps most notorious, culprit are burst pipes. The water inside pipes can often freeze and expand. This leads to melted water streaming through the structure of your home, causing severe water damage. In order to protect your property, you can make sure to insulate any exposed pipes. You can also let water drip from your faucets to keep the flow moving and lessen the chance that water freezes.
Of course, if there is damage, you can always call us at SERVPRO of Northbrook / Wheeling / Glencoe, (847) 498-8889. Our team members are professionally trained and available 24/7 for emergency services.
Hardwood floor damage is a common problem that occurs after flooding. Although insulation, walls, carpets, and belongings are also at risk, hardwood floors can be especially difficult because water can warp wood, causing structure damage. Moisture will also create an environment ideal for mold growth. After the flood hits, there are a few steps you can take to mitigate water damage. First, you need to dry the area. First, you should open any windows or doors near the affected area to allow for faster evaporation. You also need to remove water as quickly as possible. Taking safety precautions, clear the area with either a wet / dry vacuum, mops, or, if needed, a pump. Clear any debris or dirt that may have entered. If possible, you can then use dehumidifiers or heaters to get rid of any more moisture. Even after taking these steps, however, water damage can still end up harming your hardwood floors. Thankfully, SERVPRO of Northbrook / Wheeling / Glencoe can help you restore your home no matter the damage. Our equipment is bult to deal with any kind of water damage, and we will be able to assess and then mitigate any damages that may have occurred or are at risk. In the end, restoring a hardwood floor quickly and professionally can end up saving you money in the long run, since letting the damage exacerbate will only end up costing more in the future. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at 847-498-8889.
A winter wonderland, for some, might be a cause for elation, for excitement, and for an opportunity to sled, ski, and drink hot chocolate. However, when winter brings water damage to your home or property, it’s anything but fun. Freezing pipes, ice dams on roofs, and flooded basements can end up costing a lot of money and be very difficult to clean or fix. Thankfully, there are a few steps you can take to lower the chances of these seasonal hazards and make the winter a less worrisome time.
Insulate water pipes in unheated areas. You can also get low-temperature detectors that will tell you when temperatures near your pipes are hazardous.
Maximize warm air flow.
Allow cold water to drip from faucets. Running water is less likely to freeze.
Check water supply lines. If they’re low, they are more likely to freeze.
Clean and maintain your gutters.
Following these steps can help prevent water damage, but the possibility is always there. If disaster does strike, call us at SERVPRO of Northbrook / Wheeling / Glencoe, (847) 498-8889. Our team members are professionally trained and available 24/7 for emergency services, so even if the winter does take its toll, we can clean up any mess so that it’s “Like it never even happened.”
When a water damage occurs, it is imperative to act quickly to avoid secondary damage to your home or business. Whether that water is clean, or dirty, it can cause serious damage, if left untreated. If damaged material isn't either dried, removed, and/or treated, it can cause mold, mildew or rot, which can negatively affect the structural integrity of your building.
Not only can a untreated water damage hurt the structural integrity of the building, it can also cost you a lot more money down the line, and insurance companies can deny claims for mold or neglect.
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe has the equipment and tools to find any hidden water damage. Using moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras, we can pinpoint and address any water damage. If you need help with water damage, call SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe day or night at (847)498-8889!
Hurricane Isaias is inbound! The storm is currently ramping up from a category 1 to category 2 hurricane as it slowly pummels across the Bahamas.
What does that mean for us here on mainland?
We need to continue to monitor the storms progress, but all indicators seem to point to the storm traveling up the east coast. Hurricanes can cause tremendous rain and wind damage to homes along the east coast, and its difficult to predict exactly when, or where it will die off.
Dont forget there is still a pandemic going on! Which will make the cleanup efforts so much more difficult. Luckily, SERVPRO is equipped to handle both disasters. We will closely monitor the storm and the damage it causes, and you might see SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe out on the east coast this summer helping those in need! If you need help with anything, please call us at (847)498-8889.
Basements are notorious for flooding during heavy rains. Because they are beneath ground level, any weakness in the foundation or gap in the windows or walls can end up allowing water in. A leak in a finished basement can be disastrous, but even a leakage in an unfinished basement can be dangerous too. Water allows in mold, and often, flood water is contaminated and thus hazardous to your health. If you notice water coming into your basement, you should first try to find the source. If you happen to catch a leak while it’s happening, check the windows, walls, and pipes to see if those are the sources. Sometimes, water can come in through humidity too. To see check, there’s a trick you can use with aluminum foil. Tape it on your wall and see where moisture appears. If it’s behind the aluminum, you have a leak, and if it’s on top, the issue is from humidity. With humidity, you can patch vents with foil tape and add foam insulators to pipes. You can also get a dehumidifier, which will help keep the area dry. A leak, unfortunately, is much more difficult to manage. If you have windows, those are a likely culprit, as any small breach will allow water in. Windows are usually situated in a well, so the pressure from heavy rain really tests their strength. One option is to buy window well covers, which can help keep the rain out. Unfortunately, sometimes water can still get in, and in that case, you need to take some extra measures. One option is to enforce the seal on the window. You can also adjust your landscaping so that water is less likely to get in. A leak in the foundation or walls can lead to some serious work. Although you may need a professional to fix whatever the issue is, you might be able to fix the problem by sealing any cracks with hydraulic cement or waterproof coating. You can also install a drainage system that will lessen the amount of water putting pressure on the foundation. Gutters and downpour systems help with this too. There are many ways that water can get into basements, and sometimes trial and error is necessary. However, if you do have a flood, the first thing you should do is get it professionally cleaned, so that it doesn’t cause more problems. SERVPRO of Northbrook / Wheeling / Glencoe, (847) 498-8889, is available 24/7 for emergency services, and we have the expertise and experience for any kind of water damage. Give us a call if you’d like to schedule a cleaning or if you have any questions.
For some basements, a sump pump is mandatory, and even if your basement doesn’t necessarily need one, they can always come in handy during a flood. However, a mechanical failure could lead to disaster and it helps to know how to keep up maintenance in order to make the most of them.
As you may know, sump pumps collect water in a basin, and then pump it out in a place where it can be safely drained. They are most often installed in basements where flooding typically occurs, either because of issues in the foundation, the depth of the basement in relation to the water level, or other reasons. However, they can also be useful for homeowners who want an extra measure of safety in case of unexpected flooding. At the end of the day, a sump pump can prevent heartache, monetary loss, and water damage.
As useful as they are, sump pump failures can occur. It just takes a power outage or accumulated debris, and you’ll find yourself with a flooded basement. However, with regular maintenance you can better ensure safety. Power outages, which often happen during a storm, can end up turning off your sump pump. This is easily fixed with a back-up generator. Another issue that commonly occurs is a stuck switch. Debris, or even just a mechanical error, can cause the switch in the sump pump to get stuck. Sump pumps can also simply get old and stop working. Their lifespan can range from 5-30 years, depending on the type of pump, so you should begin to check on it during heavy storms or other events that could lead to flooding when it is at risk of failure. For regular maintenance, once a year, you can clean it out by disconnecting it and rinsing it out with running water, cleaning out all the pipes and valves.
Paying attention to your sump pump and cleaning it out every year or so can help prevent issues. However, unexpected problems can always come up, so if you have any questions, concerns, or need of assistance, please call us at SERVPRO of Northbrook / Wheeling / Glencoe, (847) 498-8889.
It's Getting Cold Outside! Some Tips if you have Water Damage.
Picture this: You just bought your first home, and you are absolutely in love with it. A month goes by and you start to smell something funky. You discover the source of the smell is coming from the crawlspace, which to date, you have not opened. You open the hatch door and discover that nearly half your crawlspace below your home is covered in sewage.
What do you do?
First and foremost, get in contact with your local plumber and have them discover, and fix the source of the water. Every situation is different, but it cant hurt to call your insurance company to see if you have sewage backup. Next step...CALL SERVPRO!!
Once we evaluate the situation and make sure it is safe to go into the crawlspace, crews will suit up and head down there to begin the cleanup. Many times, we have to remove the top layer of soil if the crawlspace is unfinished. Once that top layer is removed, crews will begin disinfecting anything that came into contact with this dirty water.
When its all said and done, crews will leave drying equipment for a slightly extended time, to dry the rest of the soil.
Winter is coming, and in Chicago temperatures can drop to dangerous levels. In addition to all the other problems that come with snow and sub-zero temperatures, freezing pipes can cause massive, costly damage to your property. Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during the winter because they often fracture and break as they become ice-cold in temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Ultimately, they can end up costing a lot of money depending the severity. Pipes can break and flood, and they can cause water damage in walls and foundations. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to prevent them from freezing in most cases.
Let cold water drip from your faucet. This is a simple method that will help prevent exposed pipes from freezing by creating a flow. Although this is not a guaranteed method, it can often help.
Always keep the thermostat on. Even if you leave the house, you should always leave it at least at 55 degrees. While it can be costly to leave the heat on, it is far less expensive than fixing your plumbing and/or cleaning up a flooded area of the property.
Add insulation. Adding insulation to exposed pipes can help a lot. This is time consuming, but it doesn’t cost much and helps in the long run. Also, make sure to seal any cracks in drywall or any other place that has plumbing running through it.
If you find your pipes are already frozen and not fractured or broken, you can try running water through it or heating it up. These methods of prevention are affordable and pretty simple, so as long as you’re diligent, ideally you will not have to experience this issue. However, if a problem occurs, or if you just have any questions, give us a call at SERVPRO of Northbrook / Wheeling / Glencoe, (847) 498-8889.
Introducing our Equipment pt. 1: Dehumidifiers and Air Movers
At SERVPRO of Northbrook / Wheeling / Glencoe, we want the best experience for our customers, and the best possible job we can do requires the best equipment. We make sure to use top-of-the-line machines that guarantee your property is quickly and effectively restored and, as we love to say, make it "Like it never even happened." Today, we’ll be giving you an overview of dehumidifiers and air movers which we commonly deploy for water damage and flooding. Our technicians are professionally trained to determine the placement, size, and quantity of each machine for optimal performance.
Dehumidifiers: Our dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air, clearing away musty odors that can linger indefinitely if not taken care of. This also prevents mildew from growing in drywall, under carpets, or anywhere else in the property that has collected moisture. There are two types of dehumidifiers, condensate and desiccant. A condensate dehumidifier refrigerates the air using evaporator coils to condense it. The dehumidifier then extracts the air through a filter, afterwards releasing dry air. As one might surmise, a desiccant dehumidifier pulls air through a desiccant material that sucks up moisture. Our dehumidifiers can remove between 8 and 20 gallons of water from the air per day. As you can see, they provide a safe and easy way to remove moisture that would otherwise cause further damage.
Air Movers: Air movers are essentially giant fans that push air out in order to expedite the drying process. Although they may not sound as complicated as dehumidifiers, we set them up in such a way to create a vortex throughout the affected area, bringing in a powerful airflow that helps get water out of carpers, wood floors, drywall, and other surfaces. The water-saturated air is then taken care of with our dehumidifiers. This helps get water out of your property quickly without having to damage any of the saturated areas.
One common misconception is that water damages don’t happen year round. Sure, summertime we get to enjoy somewhat of a break, and we aren’t pulling our hair out with the stress, BUT WATER DAMAGE HAPPENS YEAR ROUND. You should always be checking your home for signs of water damage not only in the basement, but anywhere water travels in your home. Hot water heaters, pipe bursts, or even a sump pump failure can happen in the dead of summer.
Although we are past the rainy season, all it takes is for one storm to roll through Northbrook to cause you to lose power! Which means if you don’t have a backup battery on your sump pump, there very well could be a foot of water in your basement! These things never happen at a convenient time either, so make sure if you take a vacation this summer, that you have someone pop in and make sure you don’t have an unwanted swimming pool in the basement.
If you are ever in a situation that you need help cleaning up after a water damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe, day or night, at (847)498-8889.
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today - (847)498-8889
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
Your name and contact information
Your insurance information (if applicable)
The street address of the water-damaged home or business
When did the flooding or water damage occur?
What caused the water damage (if known)?
Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today – (847) 498-8889
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
Your name and contact information
Your insurance information (if applicable)
The street address of the water-damaged home or business
When did the flooding or water damage occur?
What caused the water damage (if known)?
Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe basement could flood, including:
A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
Storm sewer backup
Sanitary sewer backup
Foundation drainage failure
Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today – (847) 498-8889
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
We are Flooded Basement Specialists:
We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment
Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (847) 498-8889
We guarantee we will be at your emergency in less than four hours!
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today – (847) 498-8889
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
Your name and contact information
Your insurance information (if applicable)
The street address of the water-damaged home or business
When did the flooding or water damage occur?
What caused the water damage (if known)?
Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
One of the first things after experiencing a water damage that most people think of is "How much is this going to cost?!". Well, there are many factors that go into how much a water damage claim can cost. Some of these factors include what type of water it is or the source, the extent of the damage will influence it, as well as the general area that you live in.
According to home adviser, the average cost of water damage cleanup is around $3.75-$7.00 a SF based on the source, while repairs can cost anywhere between $450-$7,000. Even if you are an avid DIY homeowner, it is still always recommended to have a professional take a look at the extent of the damage. The last thing you want is to miss it and develop issues down the line.
Should you ever run into a water damage situation, dont hesitate to call the professionals at SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe and ask to speak with one of our trained representatives.
When It Rains in Northbrook, It Pours: What Can You Do About Water Damage?
We’ve all had it happen sometime in our lives. You walk into your basement after a rainstorm, check on that dripping sound coming from the kitchen, or go see why that odd noise is coming from the laundry machine and there it is: water flooding into your home. Sometimes the cause is obvious: a pipe leaks, a nasty flood outside creeps under a doorway, or the dishwasher starts pouring water onto the hardwood floor. However, something seemingly innocuous can lead to heavy damage as well. Areas prone to collecting water, like crawlspaces and basements, can slowly build up moisture and become a breeding ground for mold. Water damage, if not taken care of promptly, can lead to major catastrophes for home owners: mold can lead to health problems (death in the most extreme cases), furniture and other belongings can become permanently damaged, and even the foundation of a building can be weakened. If you’re concerned about any belongings stored in places prone to water damage, you can always place them in plastic bins. Make sure they’re elevated so that water coming in can’t reach them. Your items might seem safe in a basement, crawl space, or attic, but leaks and floods happen. Preventative measures can save you time, money, and stress.
So, what can you do about water damage? First and foremost, you should take lots of pictures and contact your insurance agency. They’ll want to see what happened before you’ve intervened to determine your coverage. The next step might seem obvious, but you should dry the area as much as possible. Mop it, lay towels on the area, do whatever you can to absorb as much water as possible, but avoid using electronic appliances. While this can help, water can seep into drywall, the floor, and other permeable objects. If this is the case, you’ll need to remove and replace these damaged areas. Sometimes it can be difficult to know just how much water has spread, as it can travel through floors and walls. A damp or moldy smell is a strong indicator that water seeped into the area, but you can also use a moisture meter, which you can buy online or at your local hardware store, to find areas that have been saturated. Of course, SERVPRO of Northbrook, Wheeling, and Glencoe can efficiently and effectively remove odors, damaged areas, and tough-to-get mold, leaving you safe and worry-free.
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 - (847) 498-8889
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Categories Of Water And How To Treat Them Accordingly
Nobody ever wants to see water damage in their home or businesses, but when disaster strikes, you can always trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe to take care of it! We are highly trained in water damage restoration and know the best and most affordable way to treat whatever situation you may come across. The first thing a SERVPRO employee will do when they get the information on a water damage, is find out what the source is. This helps determine what the category of water is, as well as the appropriate measures are to get you back to where you need to be.
CATEGORY 1
Category 1 water is "clean" water that comes from a sink, shower, hose, or any source that has been filtrated. Typically, you will see Category 1 water damages from pipe bursts, and hot water heater failures. In Category 1 loses, SERVPRO is able to save a lot of building materials and contents. SERVPRO will place dehumidifiers, air movers and in some cases, specialty drying equipment to dry the affected materials and avoid any sort of Microbial growth.
CATEGORY 2
Category 2 water is defined as "slightly" contaminated water. This source comes from broken drains, sump pump backups, and when water travels through floors. In these cases, carpet, baseboards, and sometimes drywall will need to be removed. Anything that comes in contact with category 2 water, should be safely sanitized by SERVPRO employees. Because we do not know what type of contaminates could be in the water, its always better to be safe, than sorry!
CATEGORY 3
Category 3 water is classified as "grossly" contaminated. This type of water is mainly sewage, but seawater is also classified as category 3 if hurricane flooding causes a flood in your home. Any porous materials should be discarded given the fact that contaminates could get lodged in the very fine pores of certain contents. Non-Porous materials such as metal, plastic, granite etc. can be safely sanitized with the right measures.
If you ever find yourself in need of assistance, or have questions, feel free to give the professionals at SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe a call at (847)498-8889.
SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the expertise and equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition. They use a scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup that emphasizes monitoring and documenting the drying process from beginning to end.
Have Water Damage? Call Today (847)498-8889
Every water damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. You can click on any of the steps below to learn more about that process.
When you call, our representative will guide you through several questions that will help the SERVPRO Franchise Professional respond to your water emergency more quickly and efficiently. This initial contact is an important part of a fast, effective restoration.
They carefully inspect your property’s water damage, determining the type of water damage and the areas affected. This is a crucial step to creating an effective plan of action that will result in a successful restoration.
Typically, hundreds or thousands of gallons of water are removed using our powerful pumps and vacuums during the water removal process. The SERVPRO Franchise Professionals start this process as soon as possible to minimize further damage and to help prevent mold growth.
After the bulk of the water has been removed, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use specialized equipment to target the water that’s harder to access. They use less intrusive, scientific drying methods to draw the remaining water and moisture from your property with air movers and dehumidifiers.
Water damage also affects your belongings, like furniture, clothing, and personal items. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can clean restorable items using a number of specialized cleaning techniques. They also sanitize with antimicrobial treatments and remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
The last step is restoring your home or business back to its pre-water damage condition. The restoration step can be relatively minor, such as replacing a few drywall panels, or could include major reconstruction, such as rebuilding entire rooms of a home or business.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today! (847)498-8889
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today - (847)498-8889
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
Your name and contact information
Your insurance information (if applicable)
The street address of the water-damaged home or business
When did the flooding or water damage occur?
What caused the water damage (if known)?
Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Extracting CAT 3 water before removal and sanitation.
Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.
Toilet Overflow or Sewer Backup? Call Today (847)498-8889
Water damage can be classified by the three types of contaminated water. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.
The three types of contaminated water:
Category 1: "Clean Water"
Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.
Water from a clean source like a broken water line
If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3
Category 2: "Gray Water"
Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.
May contain bacteria and viruses
Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated
Category 3: "Black Water"
Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.
May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup
24 Hour Emergency Service
Water contaminated with sewage backup should be considered an emergency situation and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are water damage restoration specialists with specialized training, equipment and protective gear to safely restore your home or business.
Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today – (847) 498-8889
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
Your name and contact information
Your insurance information (if applicable)
The street address of the water-damaged home or business
When did the flooding or water damage occur?
What caused the water damage (if known)?
Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Faster to your Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe Water Damage Event
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 - (847) 498-8889
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe
SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!
A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe basement could flood, including:
A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
Storm sewer backup
Sanitary sewer backup
Foundation drainage failure
Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today – (847) 498-8889
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Northbrook/Wheeling/Glencoe and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
We are Flooded Basement Specialists:
We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment
Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (847) 498-8889
24/7 Emergency Service
