Severe Weather Causes Extreme Storm Damage!

8/14/2024 (Permalink)

Chester County suffered severe storm damage following a two-day storm event.  Intense lightning and thunderstorms resulted in water damage, fallen trees, and power outages.  Approximately 71,000 properties were left without electricity, with winds gusts reaching speeds of up to 46 mph.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford dedicated several days to diligently restoring each property affected by storm damage.  Numerous calls were received from home and business owners who faced situations such as trees penetrating their properties or roof damage due to the strong winds.  Our storm damage restoration team promptly responded to these calls to assist in the recovery process.

Additionally, we are thankful for the quick action of our local tarping and board-up partners, who worked tirelessly alongside us to secure each property and mitigate additional storm damage.  As the rain persisted, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is pleased that we could assist in preventing further rainfall from entering the premises of these properties while we recovered the current damages!

Avondale Water Leak

7/7/2023 (Permalink)

After a water leak in an Avondale home, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford went out immediately to perform mitigation services for this bathroom among other areas.  Our water damage restoration procedures involve so much more than the water removal process.  We remove damaged structural elements such as the drywall, trim and floors.  After the initial water damage has been removed, we then place drying equipment, or air movers, onsite for a minimum of three days in order to help ensure that even the smallest water droplets have vanished from the affected areas and the interior walls and floors in those areas.

Our team’s cleaning and disinfecting process ensures that any form of bacteria or contamination is removed while our reconstruction division restores what needed to be removed in order to restore a home or facility to preloss conditions.  Our IICRC-certified water damage restoration process provides peace of mind to our customers while adhering to the strict but necessary guidelines of our industry.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to aid the Chester County area with their water and fire damage needs!

Winter Isn’t Through With Us Yet!

2/8/2023 (Permalink)

After the sudden cold snap that led to dozens of Chester County properties in peril from water damage recently, you may be wondering how to prevent the very same thing from occurring in your home or facility.  Below, we list several actions you can take in order to greatly prevent a water loss this winter.

Frozen Pipes

Frigid temperatures means a much likelier chance of your pipes freezing and bursting.  To stop your pipes from freezing:

• Be sure to insulate any that are exposed.
• Close the indoor valves that supply water outdoors.
• Open the outdoor valves so that any excess water can drain out.
• In very low temperatures, open your faucets a little to allow the water to drip and therefore keep flowing through the pipes.
• If a pipe should freeze, you can use a heating pad, hair dryer or hot towels to slowly thaw the pipe before it breaks.

Winter Storms 

• Check your property for signs of damage both before and after a winter storm.  This could save you a water damage disaster if you should discover a leak or damaged portion of your roof for instance.
• In the event of heavy snowfall, remove the snow evenly from each side of your roof in order to help prevent the threat of a roof collapse.
• Do not let snow stay accumulated on your roof for too long of a period.  Doing so can potentially lead to an ice dam which prevents the melting water from exiting through the drainage system, leaving the water with nowhere to go except to leak into your property.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has assisted our local communities with their water and storm damage needs throughout this winter season.   Our restoration team is proud to help recover homes and businesses from many forms of damage that are often unexpected.  Should you suffer water, fire or mold damage of any kind, our SERVPRO professionals can help to guide you through the process while getting your property back to normal.

A Cold Snap Causes Christmas Water Damage Disasters!

1/25/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage didn’t rest this past holiday season, but luckily SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is prepared to respond 24/7 and at a moment’s notice to any emergency.  Over the weekend of Christmas, the steep drop in temperature caused numerous water damage issues throughout our local communities in the form of frozen pipes, sump pump failures, septic backups, sprinkler discharges and more.  The sudden frigid weather took many local home and business owners by surprise when their systems couldn’t handle the cold, and our restoration teams responded to many of those calls over the entire holiday weekend including Christmas Day.

Our water and storm mitigation crews provide each unique disaster with not only the proper equipment and procedures to get the job done right, but also the proper care and understanding of how overwhelming these situations can be for our clients.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to have a team that can help to salvage a customer’s property so that they can still enjoy time with their families over the holidays and throughout the year!

We Handle any Form of Water Damage!

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike at any time for a multitude of reasons.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to have the proper training, expertise and equipment in order to respond at a moment’s notice to any form of water or storm damage, no matter how large or small.

Several of the recent water losses that we assisted with included two that occurred after business hours.  Our franchise provides 24/7 emergency water damage services with a team of professionals that are always on standby just in case.  One home in Nottingham had suffered water damage in the basement over the July 4th holiday weekend.  Another home in West Grove had suffered the similar water damage during a previous weekend.  Both properties’ issues were resolved before the start of a new week.  We also completed water mitigation services for several other properties, including a commercial warehouse with a leaking roof and a home in Kennett Square with a minor pipe leak.

Each water damage event has its own unique situation. SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford responds based on industry standards for what each project entails.  Our mitigation techniques, drying equipment, cleaning solutions and demolition services are performed as needed in order to help restore your property to preloss conditions.

Water Damage at a Kennett Square Food Bank

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently visited the Kennett Area Community Service (KACS) Food Cupboard for water restoration services.  Water began to come up through the floor in the area where the food for the community was stored for those in need.

Our water restoration team responded immediately to the call and quickly began to remove the water damaged floor of the space.  We also placed our advanced drying equipment in the affected areas.  In order to fully dry the structure and prevent further water damage, our air mover and dehumidifier were left to continuously help eliminate all signs of water for three full days.  This is a standard and critical step in the water restoration process.

Once this was complete and the property was restored, the Food Cupboard was left to continue their paramount efforts for our local community.  Our team was happy to be able to restore this organization quickly and efficiently in order to help keep those efforts running smoothly for the Kennett Square area.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to assist our local businesses and non-profits with their everyday disasters and commercial cleaning needs.  Our team provides services for fire and water damage, mold remediation, post construction cleaning, biohazard, vandalism, and more!  We are proud to offer 24/7 emergency services for our local community when it is needed the most.

Are You Prepared for Winter?

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

Winter is here, which means frigid temperatures and the potential for heavy snowfall.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is always prepared for these winter weather factors since they can lead to issues such as frozen pipes and roof damage.  These common issues can then lead to substantial structural and water damage for a home or business owner’s property.

There are several steps you can take in order to help prevent severe water and storm damage this winter:

• Inspect your home for any signs of frozen pipes.  If pipes freeze and break, water damage will follow.  Exposed pipes should be insulated.  Open the outdoor pipe valves to allow excess water to escape, rather than collect and freeze inside the pipes.  Opening the faucets and allowing water to slowly drip out can also help to prevent a collection of water inside the pipes.  Should you have a frozen pipe, a hair dryer or heating pad can be used to thaw the affected area.
• Inspect the structure, repairing any damages.  This includes areas such as your roof and walls.  Snow should be removed from a roof before it collects at a substantial rate.  A large amount of snowfall can lead to a roof collapse.  Leaving snow on the roof will also allow the snow to freeze and potentially cause an ice dam, preventing excess water from exiting the roof through the gutters and to instead leak into your property.  Be sure that your walls are also sealed properly as to not allow cold air or water to enter the home or facility.
• After a winter storm, you should inspect your property for signs of damage.  This includes structural damage and the formation of snow and ice that can cause water damage as it melts.
• It is also important to stock up on supplies including shovels, salt for your driveway and walkways, and an emergency kit in case of a power outage. This kit typically includes items such as blankets and warm clothing.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers emergency services for those in Southern Chester County affected by significant storm or water damage this winter!  Our water restoration team is equipped with the proper equipment and IICRC training in order to quickly and efficiently restore your home or business from unexpected damage.  We also provide Reconstruction services for structural issues such as those involving a roof or ceiling collapse.  Our team is always prepared and ready to assist our local community!

Preventing a Roof Collapse this Winter

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storms can cause significant structural damage, including the possibility of a roof collapse.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recommends that homeowners as well as businesses have their properties inspected for any issues or signs of damage before the first winter storm.

Our restoration team often assists with water damage that is caused by roof leaks and other unexpected winter storm disasters.  While storm damage can’t always be prevented, there are several steps you can take in order to avoid a roof collapse this winter.

• Inspect your roof for any issues such as wet roof tiles or leaks.  Cracked or bent walls can also be a sign of a damaged roof.
• Insulate your attic properly.  Doing so will help to melt the snow on your roof quickly so that it doesn’t accumulate too extensively.
• Do not allow the snow to collect too significantly on the roof.  Too much weight can cause a roof collapse.  A substantial amount can also cause the melting snow to leak into the property if there is structural damage.
• Snow should be removed from the roof carefully and in even layers from each side of the roof.  This will maintain a consistent weight on the roof and prevent potential roof damage.  Two to three inches of snow should be left on the roof since this will melt naturally and help to eliminate other issues.
• Remove all signs of dirt and debris from your gutters and drains.  This will allow the water from the melting snow to efficiently flow away from the structure and prevent any form of water collection around the foundation.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers immediate assistance for water and storm damage in Southern Chester County.  We provide services outlined by the IICRC in order to help restore our local community from damages including roof collapses, leaks and other forms of storm damage.  We also immediately offer roof tarping and reconstruction services in order to fully repair or replace your damaged roof and other elements of your home or facility.

Faster to Your Water Damage!

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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 Kennett Square/Oxford arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.  This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water Damage Occurs Within Minutes:

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Damaged furniture finishes may 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.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.  Our team is highly trained in property damage restoration.  From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Frozen Pipe Season!

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

With winter approaching, frozen pipe season will be arriving shortly.  When the temperature declines, pipes tend to freeze and the water inside the pipes expands.  This often leads to a pipe break that can cause significant water damage to your home or business.  There are simple and preventative actions you can take in order to prevent this issue in your own property.

• Pipes should be insulated.  Areas where there is no heat such as the attic and basement areas should be as well.
• Shut off the water supply that is used for your outdoor hose bibs.  The hose bibs should then be opened to remove excess water and prevent freezing in low temperatures.
• Keep the thermostat set at a consistent temperature.
• In extreme weather conditions, cabinet doors can be opened in order to allow warmer air to reach the pipes and help prevent freezing.  Opening your faucets to allow water to drip through the pipes will also help water to continue traveling through the pipes instead of freezing.
• To prevent water damage when a pipe is frozen, turn on the faucet in order to allow water to flow through as the pipe unfreezes.  Heat the pipes using a hair dryer or hot towel.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to assist our Southern Chester County community with their water damage needs this winter.  Our water restoration team and the American Red Cross recommend these preventative steps in order to help prevent an often overwhelming water damage event in your own home or facility.  We offer immediate assistance for those that suffer water or storm damage caused by issues such as frozen pipes.

Flood Prevention in Chester County

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

The flooding and sewage disasters suffered by our local Chester County community recently were quite overwhelming for those involved.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford strives to make each storm event a pleasant experience for the parties involved, but we also recommend ways to prevent the storm damage from occurring in the first place.  Below, we list several preventative actions you can take in order to stop flood damage in its tracks!

Clean your Gutters. 

By ensuring that your drainage system is clear of clogs, storm water will flow properly through the gutters and away from your property.

Check your Storm Drains. 

Have your drains checked for quality performance of draining storm water.

Inspect your Home for Issues before the Storm Begins. 

Structural damage to your foundation, roof and other areas can cause leaks or greater water damage during a large rain storm.

Review your Insurance Policy.

Before a storm occurs, we recommend that you discuss your policy and coverage with your insurance provider.  Flooding and other storm issues aren’t always covered, so it is critical to choose the policy that works best for you.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help our local Chester County community with their storm damage needs, including hurricane and tornado damages.  Our Disaster Recovery Team can respond at a moment's notice to your emergency, and we also offer 24/7 services for your home or business.  Click here to learn more about the steps to take after you suffer flooding or other storm damages!

Sewage Damage in Landenberg

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently completed services for this sewage loss in Landenberg after an unpleasant biohazard situation.  The pipe that connects the sewer system to the home had clogged, causing sewage to leak into the basement.

Our restoration team removed all signs of contaminated water from the affected areas, dried those areas and completed the process with our advanced cleaning and sanitation techniques.  The homeowner was extremely pleased with our crew and the work performed.

Water damage is never pleasant, and sewage makes matters worse and often more overwhelming.  In order to prevent sewage damage in your own home or facility, remember to inspect your sewer system for cracks or other damages where sewage water can potentially leak in.

Disposing of your food and paper products properly, as well as cleaning your drains once a month can prevent a clog in the system.  Backwater valves are also often suggested since they guarantee that sewage not only exits the system properly but that it also doesn't re-enter the building through the same system.

Should your home or facility suffer a water or sewage damage event, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides 24/7 emergency services to our local Pennsylvania area.  For a free quote, give us a call at 610-268-8620!

Basement Water Damage in Chadds Ford

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford received a call from a local homeowner after she suffered water damage in her basement.  The water had destroyed portions of the ceiling in addition to the carpeted floor.  This basement was newly finished, making an unpleasant situation for any homeowner even more upsetting and overwhelming.

Our water cleanup and restoration professionals responded immediately to assist with the water damage and to help put the customer’s mind at ease.  We removed the affected drywall and insulation as well as the damaged areas of the flooring in order to extract all signs of water from the property.

Due to the extent of the water damage in the basement, it took quite a bit of our advanced drying equipment to prevent further water or mold issues.  In order to fully dry the structure, we placed our specialized dehumidifier for a 24 hour period as well as four of our SERVPRO air movers for two full days.

This homeowner was happy that our team was able to fully extract, dry and treat her basement as quickly as we did. Our team is happy to offer this emergency service to our local community.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers an immediate response to those who have suffered from a water or fire damage event in Southern Chester County.  We are always prepared to assist you when disaster hits home. For more information, give us a call at 610-268-8620!

Water Damage at a Coatesville Senior Living Facility

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently provided services to a senior living community in Coatesville.  After a water heater burst in the facility, a kitchen was left flooded in addition to other areas.  

Our water cleanup and restoration professionals visited the community immediately to perform our mitigation services.  Once all water was extracted, the areas were fully cleaned as well as dried in order to prevent further water or mold damage.

Due to the extent of the water damage, we also had to remove padding and other areas of the affected floors.  Those areas are now fully dry.  Our next step will be providing the facility with our Reconstruction services to replace the flooring and completely make this disaster “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to offer fire, water and mold remediation services to our local communities and businesses.  We offer immediate assistance in order to minimize the interruption to each facility.  We’re happy we were able to help with this water damage event so that those who reside in this Coatesville community can quickly feel back to normal.

Warning Signs of Flooding

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

If flooding occurs in your home, it can leave devastating damage to the property including structural and foundation damage.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides water and storm restoration services to many homes and businesses that have experienced flood damage, but the problem can be prevented.  After buying a house, it is also critical to have a certified inspector check your home for signs of prior flooding in order to eliminate further future damage.  Below, we list some signs to look out for from the Inspection Certification Associates, which a home inspector will inspect for you.

• Efflorescence on the foundation or basement walls is a common sign of a significant flooding problem.
• Exterior wood rot is a sign of extensive flooding in the past.
• Water stains on framing is important to inspect, since this can mean the structure is in danger of damage.
• Mold and mildew on the ceiling or upper walls is a sign of a potential water leak.  If the mold is on the lower walls or in corners of the structure, this is another sign of flooding.
• Foundation cracks are important to check for, especially when other signs of flooding are present.
• Widespread and discolored water stains on drywall can potentially signify a prior issue.
• Rusted metal such as door hinges or rust stains means the area was affected by water damage at some point.

These significant problems all signify a past flooding issue in the home.  If you or an inspector discovers any of these issues, it is important to call a restoration professional to fix the problem.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides water and storm restoration services for properties that have experienced flooding and other damages.  We also offer 24/7 emergency services in addition to mold remediation, should the water damage lead to mold growth.

How to Thaw a Frozen Pipe

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

With winter quickly approaching, a leading cause of water damage is due to pipes that freeze and break.  Pipes tend to freeze in low temperatures or in areas of the property where there is little or no insulation.

Thawing frozen pipes can prevent severe water damage during this winter season.  Below, we list some tips from the American Red Cross on the proper techniques when dealing with a frozen pipe.

• Keep the faucet open. This will allow water to slowly start flowing through the frozen pipe, melting the interior of the pipe.
• Apply heat to the pipe until the water pressure is recovered.  A hair dryer, electric heating pad or hot towels are all sufficient options for unfreezing the affected area.
• Do not use any equipment with an open flame to thaw a pipe, such as a propane heater.
• If it is difficult to thaw the pipe, call a certified plumber in order to resolve the issue.
• It is critical to inspect other faucets in order to ensure they aren’t experiencing the same problem.

Treating frozen pipes can prevent water damage such as flooding in your home when the temperatures drop.  Should you experience water damage this winter, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is prepared to offer immediate assistance!  Our water restoration team can handle any size water damage event, which are often due to frozen pipes this time of year.  We hope that these precautions will help to eliminate this issue in your own home or business.  For assistance with any water damage, please feel free to contact us at 610-268-8620.

Saving Education with Water Restoration

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has been busier than ever with water damage events in our local Pennsylvania area.  Our water restoration professionals are prepared to assist with an emergency call at a moment’s notice.  This pertains to some of our local organizations as well, including one of our educational institutions that uses us often for various restoration and cleaning projects.

This particular educational facility was recently left more overwhelmed than most of our customers.  In just over a week, water damage had occurred twice in the same building and we went out immediately both times to perform restoration before the problem could get worse.   We were also called back out for a Biohazard job on campus that was in need of an immediate cleanup.  This institution uses us often, and we always enjoy working with their team in order to help keep everything running smoothly for the students and faculty.

Be Prepared for Hurricane Storm Damage

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is always “Ready for whatever happens.”  We are prepared for any size water or storm damage event, including those that occur due to hurricanes.  It is officially hurricane season, which runs from June 1st through November 30th.  These storms are nothing to take lightly, and we need to stay safe now more than ever during these difficult times.

In the event of a hurricane in our area, please remember to inspect your property for roof leaks and other signs of structural damage including loose drains and gutters.  Remove any debris from your roof and watch for pipe breaks.  Identifying hazards and completing simple repairs on your home can help prevent future storm damage.

Remember to listen for weather alerts and remove any outdoor signs or equipment from your property.  Follow all proper safety procedures and remain safe!

Should you discover any type of water or structural damage, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help for both the minor repairs and the storm destruction that may follow.  Our highly trained and IICRC-certified restoration professionals are available 24/7 and can help you to weather the storm.  Call us for more information at 610-268-8620.

Basement Water Leak in Coatesville

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has been staying busy with helping to restore local properties from water damage.  Sump pump failures and water leaks have been very common this month.  One such water leak disaster that we were happy to help resolve was for a homeowner in Coatesville.

After experiencing a water leak in her unfinished basement, the homeowner called us to remove the water and clean up the affected areas.  Since the water was not properly mitigated immediately, the area now had a musty smell and needed a deeper cleaning.

Our water restoration professionals removed all signs of water and dirt residue from the floors and then dried the affected areas for a full 24-hour period.  Once the areas were fully dry, we applied our plant-based microbial cleaning agent to all surfaces, and even cleaned her laundry appliances.

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we clean contents as well and can even restore documents that are not too overly damaged.  We are happy to help in any way that we can when it comes to a water, fire or mold damage event.

Sewage Disaster in Downingtown

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

After a local homeowner’s toilet overflowed, this bathroom floor in Downingtown was left in disarray with sewage and water.  The contaminated water traveled into the basement as well, leaving puddles of filth behind.  

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford visited the property immediately to clean and restore the home to its former glory.  Once the toilet and vanity were removed from the affected area and we had torn out the drywall and trim, we began our specialized water mitigation process.  Our water restoration team removed all signs of water and contamination from all surfaces of the home.  We then applied our anti-fungal and anti-microbial treatments to those surfaces in order to clean, sanitize and disinfect every inch of the damaged floors and walls.

The affected areas were left clean and dry, and the home was fully restored to a clean and healthy environment for the homeowner.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was happy to make this sewage disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Water Heater Water Damage

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently received a call from a homeowner in Kennett Square after his water heater malfunctioned.  Four inches of water leaked into the basement and affected some of the contents in the affected areas as well.  Our water restoration professionals were happy to help restore the property.

We visited the property immediately to assess the damages and begin the water mitigation process.  We use advanced equipment to quickly remove hundreds of thousands of gallons of water from your property.  We then place our drying equipment to dry the affected areas in order to remove any signs of water left behind.  This helps prevent further water damage and mold growth.  Our team also cleaned and disinfected this space in addition to the contents damaged by the leak.  We were happy to leave the home with a clean and dry basement “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to help restore homes and businesses from water damage in our local community.  Click here to learn more about our water restoration services!

Preventing Mold Growth After Water Damage

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

When water enters and damages your property, mold can also appear if the issue isn’t taken care of immediately.  The water behind your walls or paneling can lead to mold growth and cause a larger problem for you and your home.  To prevent the spread of mold after a water damage event, you should follow these steps:

• Dry the areas right away.
• Check for musty odors that can be a sign of mold.
• Inspect the exterior of your home or building and drain any excess water that has accumulated around the property. This is critical, since water outside can lead to mold that can spread into the inside of the property.
• Replace materials that can’t be fully dried with materials that are less prone to mold.

These steps are critical in preventing mold damage after water damage is present.  If you experience water or mold damage in your home, the mold remediation professionals at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford are here to help!  Click here to learn more about our mold services!

Washer Water Damage

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

After this ceiling collapsed due to water damage, our crew was happy to complete water mitigation and repairs for the homeowners.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently received a call from Peach Bottom, PA after a homeowner had experienced a significant water damage event on their property.  Their washer had a slow hose leak for three weeks, causing water to leak through the floor into the basement.  The ceiling and drywall were affected, but luckily the damage wasn’t too severe.

Our water restoration professionals visited the site immediately to assess the damages and begin the water mitigation process.  Once all signs of water were removed from the affected areas, we laid down drying equipment for four days to ensure the space was completely dry.  This was critical in order to prevent water or mold damage in the future.

The homeowners were so satisfied with our services and crew that they decided to use us for repairs as well.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is thrilled we were able to make this unexpected disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Our restoration professionals are always here to help!  To learn more about our services in water damage, click here.

Pipe Burst in Landenberg

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Recently, our crew visited a local property in Landenberg after the pipe burst in the home overnight.  The basement was severely damaged from floor to ceiling, leaving a devastating scene.  Our crew came to the rescue that same day to mitigate the damages before the destruction could get worse.

In just a matter of hours, we had removed all signs of water from the property and successfully laid down drying equipment in order to prep the affected areas for reconstruction.  We are always prepared and happy to help our local neighbors when these types of disasters strike to make each one “Like it never even happened.”

If you experience water damage in your own home, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at 610-268-8620.  Our cleaning and restoration professionals can handle any size disaster for you!

Refrigerator Water Leak in Lincoln University

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford helps restore properties from water losses and other unexpected disasters daily, and we are happy to help.  One example of the hard work that we do was when we stepped up after receiving a call from a customer in Lincoln University after his fridge had failed.  The broken appliance caused an extensive amount of water to leak onto the main floor and into the basement.  The customer was devastated after discovering the destruction, but relieved when our water restoration professionals immediately visited the property to inspect, repair and restore the damages to the home.

Sadly, situations like this are not uncommon for SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, but like this restoration project, we always do our best to clean and restore your property to preloss conditions. 

About SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.  From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, our staff is equipped with the knowledge and expertise to restore your property.  Call us today at (610) 268-8620.

What Causes Water Damage?

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we receive calls daily from local homeowners and businesses who experience water damage.  Water can leak into your property in a variety of ways.  Whether the damage comes from a broken pipe or a storm in your area, both can have catastrophic consequences.  Here, we list some of the common causes of water damage that can help you to protect your property from a water disaster.

A Leaky Basement

This is one of the most common causes of water damage.  Our water restoration professionals are able to find the leak in order to repair the damage.

Leaky Plumbing

You can often fix this problem yourself by fixing any damaged pipes.  If there are multiple leaks, a restoration professional should handle the plumbing.

The Plant Root System

When plants and shrubs are overgrown and too close to a structure, water can seep into the foundation.  Trim your plants and remove any water that collects near the foundation of your property.

Damaged Drywall

Drywall is usually damaged when a leaky roof or toilet is involved and collapses the ceiling.  Our restoration professionals can repair drywall and help protect against moisture.

If you experience any water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620.  We can recover any size water disaster. 

What You Should and Shouldn't Do with Water Damage

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

When you experience a water loss, you may feel stressed and confused on what to do to prevent further damage to your home.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help when a water disaster strikes, but there are actions you can take on your own to minimize damages.

Helpful Tips

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe water damage from wood furniture.
• Remove and prop wet furniture and pillow cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn your air conditioner on for more efficient drying if your loss occurs in the summer.
• Remove rugs from wet carpeting.
• Place valuables in a safe, dry place.

Actions to Avoid

• Do not leave wet fabrics in place.  Instead, dry them immediately.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Never use a standard vacuum to remove the water.
• Avoid using televisions or other electronics while standing on wet carpets or floors.
• If the ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans or lights.  Avoid rooms where ceilings are sagging from water.

A water disaster can strike when we least expect it, but you can help prevent extensive damages to your home by following these actions.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can help with the rest.  Our water restoration professionals are fully equipped and prepared to handle your water loss.  Call us at (610) 268-8620.

What You Should Do if your Washing Machine Floods

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

Washing machines use up to thirty gallons of water to clean our clothes on a regular basis.  If this convenient device were to flood, however, there would be extensive water damage to your home.  Disaster can strike when we least expect it, so it’s best to be prepared if you experience this problem. 

How to Fix the Problem

Cut off the electrical power supply to the washer at the fuse box.  Don’t stop the washer or immediately pull the electrical plug since doing so can lead to more flooding and possible electric shock. 

Remove the clothes from the washer and drain them in the sink to remove some of the water from the washer.

Check to see if the washer hoses are leaking water. Tighten the hot and cold water supply hoses, and ensure that the drain hose is properly in place.

Test the washer without laundry or detergent to ensure the problem is solved. 

To prevent your washer from flooding, do not put an excessive amount of laundry in the washer during a cycle, and make sure the machine was not recalled.

A water disaster can stem from a small problem, such as a washer leak.  If you experience any water damage in your home, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can handle the loss for you and restore your property “Like it never even happened”.

How To Prevent and Treat Frozen Pipes

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

With the temperatures dropping, there are some things to look out for to keep your home running efficiently.  A large concern during the winter months is the possibility of frozen pipes. When water freezes in your pipes, it expands and can cause pipes to break, which can leave your home with significant water damage. While this is an extremely common and inconvenient problem, there are steps you can take to prevent and treat frozen pipes, according to The American Red Cross.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces as well as the pipes themselves.  Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate through the pipes, and let cold water drip from the faucets of the pipes that are exposed. Keep the thermostat always set at the same temperature so pipes are less likely to freeze. 

Treating Frozen Pipes

Keep the faucet on so that water can begin to flow out as the pipe unfreezes.  Apply heat to the pipe using an electric heating pad or hair dryer until full water pressure is restored. 

If you have any questions about our services with damages from broken water pipes, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford today at (610) 268-8620.  Our water restoration experts are dedicated to assisting homeowners and businesses with their water damage needs.

Flooded Condo in Kennett Square

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Recently, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford received a call after a customer’s condo began to flood.  The condo above her had flooded drastically, and the water had nowhere else to go.  The customer’s main floor and basement were now flooded with standing water, leaving the tile floors and carpets wet.  The ceiling was coming down from the water damage as well.

We extracted the water, and then placed drying equipment for three days to ensure proper structure drying.  The importance of correctly drying the structure is imperative to us, as we do not want to take a chance of having microbial growth occur once we leave.

If you experience any water damage in your home, contact our restoration experts at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620.

Faster To Any Size Water Disaster

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford 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 understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable.  You need an expert to guide you through both the crisis and the water restoration process.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. 

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 Kennett Square/Oxford

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford 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, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.  Call us at (610) 268-8620.

Kennett Square Residential Water Loss

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

Ice that formed as a result of water flooding the garage

Selling your home can be an incredibly stressful time for anyone, but imagine getting a call from your realtor, while you are away on a business trip, telling you there is water pouring out from under the garage doors.  This was the reality for one of our recent customers in the Kennett Square area.  The current owner was just weeks away from settlement on the sale of their home when they left town. 

Sadly during their trip most of the north east was caught in a severe cold snap that resulted in two broken pipes on their second floor.  A neighbor noticed ice forming on their garage door and coming out from the front door as well and contacted the realtor.  Upon arriving he found that most of the ceilings and walls on the first floor and basement had already collapsed.  There was also over a foot of standing water in the basement. 

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/ Oxford was called and we had an emergency crew out the same day to begin the process of drying out the structure and removing the damaged materials.  We will now begin the process of rebuilding the interior of the home.  The sale of the home will still be going through, and the new owners will have a clean and beautiful new interior.