Winter Storm Cleanup Tips for Residents in St. Louis, Missouri

9/11/2024 (Permalink)

Here are some essential winter storm cleanup tips tailored for St. Louis residents.

Winter storms can leave behind a trail of destruction, and St. Louis, Missouri, is no stranger to such harsh weather. Whether it's heavy snow, ice storms, or strong winds, preparing and cleaning up after a winter storm is crucial to ensure the safety of your home and family. Here are some essential winter storm cleanup tips tailored for St. Louis residents.

Assessing the Damage

After a winter storm, the first step is to assess the damage. Check your property for any signs of damage, such as fallen trees, broken branches, or roof damage. Be cautious and wear protective gear, as the aftermath of a storm can present various hazards.

Clearing Snow and Ice

Clearing snow and ice is vital for preventing accidents and further damage. Use a sturdy shovel to remove snow from walkways and driveways. For ice, spread rock salt or an ice melt product to create a safer surface. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), snow and ice removal can significantly reduce the risk of slip and fall injuries, which account for over 30 percent of winter storm-related emergency room visits.

Dealing with Fallen Trees and Branches

Fallen trees and branches are common after winter storms in St. Louis. Use a chainsaw to cut large branches into manageable pieces, but only if you are experienced in using this equipment. For larger trees, it is best to contact a professional tree removal service to safely handle the job.

Checking the Roof and Gutters

Heavy snow and ice can cause significant damage to your roof and gutters. Clear any accumulated snow from your roof using a roof rake. Inspect gutters for ice dams and clear them to prevent water damage. If you notice any damage, such as missing shingles or leaks, contact a roofing professional for repairs.

Water Damage Prevention

Winter storms can lead to water damage due to melting snow and ice. Ensure that your home's foundation is clear of snow to prevent water seepage. Inside your home, use a dehumidifier to control moisture levels and prevent mold growth.

Hiring Professional Cleanup Services

For extensive damage or if you’re unsure about handling the cleanup yourself, hiring professional cleanup services like SERVPRO® is a smart choice. Our experienced team is equipped to handle all aspects of winter storm cleanup, from water damage restoration to debris removal.

Preparing for Future Storms

Preparation is key to minimizing damage from future winter storms. Keep an emergency kit on hand, ensure your home is well-insulated, and have a plan in place for snow and ice removal. Regular maintenance of trees and roofs can also prevent extensive damage during storms.

By following these winter storm cleanup tips, St. Louis residents can ensure their homes and families stay safe and secure during the harsh winter months. Remember, prompt and proper cleanup is crucial to preventing further damage and maintaining a safe living environment.

Defending Against the Onslaught: Flood Barriers and Sandbags in Action

5/13/2024 (Permalink)

Floods can strike with little warning, causing widespread damage to homes, businesses, and communities. When facing the relentless force of rising waters, effective flood defense becomes paramount. Among the arsenal of tools, flood barriers and sandbags stand as stalwart guardians, offering a frontline defense against nature's fury. In this blog, we'll explore the effectiveness of these techniques and shed light on how SERVPRO of Clayton/Ladue plays a crucial role in flood recovery.

Understanding Flood Barriers: A Modern Shield

Flood barriers are engineered structures designed to prevent or redirect the flow of water, acting as a formidable defense against inundation. These barriers come in various forms, from portable barricades to permanent installations, each tailored to the unique needs of the area they protect. Some common types of flood barriers include:

Levees and Dikes

These earthen embankments are strategically constructed along rivers and coastlines to contain and redirect floodwaters. SERVPRO® has expertise in flood recovery, often involving addressing the aftermath of breaches in these protective structures.

Flood Walls

Vertical barriers made of concrete or other materials, flood walls shield urban areas from rising waters. When these structures face damage, SERVPRO steps in with efficient restoration to minimize the impact on the community.

Portable Flood Barriers

These versatile barriers are often used for temporary flood protection. SERVPRO's experience in disaster recovery includes assisting communities in deploying and managing portable barriers during flood emergencies.

The Timeless Efficacy of Sandbags

While flood barriers provide a robust defense, the simplicity, and accessibility of sandbags make them a timeless and effective tool in flood mitigation. Here's how sandbags contribute to flood defense:

Absorption and Weight

Sandbags are filled with sand or soil, creating a heavy barrier that absorbs and redirects water. This simple yet effective method is often employed in emergencies, and SERVPRO teams are equipped to assist in the aftermath.

Versatility

Sandbags can be strategically stacked to create protective walls around properties, redirecting water away from vulnerable areas. SERVPRO's expertise extends to mitigating water damage post-flood, including the removal and restoration of sandbag-protected structures.

Swift Deployment

In the face of impending floods, speed is crucial. SERVPRO's rapid response teams are well-versed in assisting communities with the efficient deployment of sandbags to protect properties.

When floods breach defenses, SERVPRO stands ready to assist in the recovery process. Our trained professionals are equipped to:

1. Assess Damage

SERVPRO teams assess the extent of flood damage, including structural and content damage, and develop a comprehensive plan for restoration.

2. Water Extraction

Utilizing advanced equipment, SERVPRO extracts standing water to minimize further damage and prevent mold growth.

3. Structural Drying and Dehumidification

Swift and thorough drying of affected structures is paramount in preventing long-term damage. SERVPRO employs state-of-the-art techniques to ensure a complete restoration.

4. Content Restoration

SERVPRO restores damaged contents, including documents, furniture, and personal belongings, utilizing specialized techniques to salvage items whenever possible.

5. Mold Remediation

The aftermath of flooding often includes the risk of mold growth. SERVPRO addresses mold issues promptly, implementing effective remediation strategies.

In conclusion, flood barriers and sandbags play pivotal roles in mitigating the impact of floods, offering valuable protection to homes and businesses. SERVPRO's commitment to flood recovery extends beyond the initial response, ensuring communities can rebuild and restore normalcy in the wake of disaster. As nature tests our defenses, the combined efforts of flood mitigation tools and expert restoration services stand as a formidable force against the rising tide.

Understanding the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

1/9/2024 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are powerful and destructive natural disasters, capable of causing extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and the environment. To accurately assess and communicate the intensity of hurricanes, the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is used worldwide. In this blog, we will delve into the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale to help you understand its categories, wind speeds, and the potential impacts associated with each level.

The Purpose and Origin of the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

• Understanding the need for a standardized measurement system for hurricanes.
• Tracing the history and development of the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

Categories of the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

• Explaining the five categories (1 to 5) of the scale and their criteria based on maximum sustained wind speeds.
• Detailing the wind speeds, storm surge, and potential damage associated with each category.
• Highlighting the factors that contribute to a hurricane's category, such as pressure and size.

Assessing the Impacts of Each Category

• Exploring the potential damage to structures, trees, power lines, and infrastructure at each category level.
• Discussing the flood risks, storm surges, and coastal erosion associated with different categories.
• Highlighting the risk to human life and safety under various hurricane categories.

Understanding the Limitations of the Scale

• Acknowledging the scale's focus on wind speed and the exclusion of other factors like rainfall and tornadoes.
• Emphasizing the role of preparedness and evacuation plans regardless of the hurricane's category.

Importance of Public Awareness

Encouraging individuals to stay informed about approaching hurricanes and to remain updated with the latest forecasts.

Promoting the significance of heeding evacuation orders and following emergency management guidelines based on the projected category of an approaching hurricane.

The Evolving Role of the Saffir-Simpson Scale

• While the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale has been a valuable tool in assessing hurricanes, it is important to note that our understanding of hurricanes continues to evolve.
• Researchers and meteorologists are continually studying and refining our knowledge of hurricanes, including factors beyond wind speed that contribute to their intensity and impact.
• Efforts are being made to incorporate additional variables such as rainfall, storm size, and potential storm surge into hurricane assessment and communication systems.
• The aim is to provide an even more comprehensive understanding of hurricanes and their potential threats, enabling better preparedness and response strategies for communities and individuals.

Understanding the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale enables individuals, communities, and emergency management organizations to better prepare for and respond to hurricanes. By recognizing the categories' associated wind speeds and potential impacts, we can make informed decisions, protect lives, and minimize property damage. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and prioritize safety when confronted with the forces of these formidable natural phenomena.

Effective Fallen Tree and Debris Cleanup After Storms in the Greater St. Louis Area

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

In the heart of the St. Louis area, nature's fury can leave behind a trail of fallen trees, debris, and chaos after storms. As a homeowner or property owner, knowing how to handle debris and fallen trees is crucial for a safe and swift recovery. This blog serves as your comprehensive guide to efficiently cleaning up your space after storms, allowing you to restore your property and peace of mind.

The Importance of Prompt Cleanup

After a storm subsides, it's essential to tackle debris and fallen trees as soon as possible. Here's why:

1. Safety First: Fallen trees and debris can pose immediate safety risks to you, your family, and your property.
2. Prevent Further Damage: Addressing fallen trees quickly prevents secondary damage to structures, fences, and utilities.
3. Pests and Mold Prevention: Debris accumulation can attract pests and lead to mold growth if not addressed promptly.

Step-by-Step Debris and Fallen Tree Cleanup

1. Safety Precautions: Before you start, ensure your safety by wearing appropriate gear and checking for hazards like downed power lines.
2. Assess the Situation: Evaluate the extent of the damage. Identify any trees or branches that may have compromised structures.
3. Clear Walkways and Entry Points: Begin by clearing pathways, driveways, and entry points to ensure safe access.
4. Branch Removal: Trim and remove smaller branches using proper tools, such as pruning shears and handsaws.
5. Large Tree Removal: For fallen trees or large branches, consider hiring professional tree removal services, especially if they pose risks.
6. Dispose of Debris: Organize debris into separate piles for recycling, composting, or disposal. Check local regulations for guidelines.
7. Assess Structural Damage: Inspect your property for any structural damage caused by fallen trees or branches. Address repairs promptly.
8. Grind Stumps (if needed): If you remove a tree, consider grinding the stump to prevent regrowth and enhance aesthetics.

Collaborate with Professionals

In cases of extensive damage or challenging tree removal, enlisting the help of professionals is wise. Certified arborists and tree removal experts have the expertise and equipment to handle large-scale cleanup safely and effectively.

Utilize Local Resources

Check with local authorities for guidelines on debris removal, disposal locations, and any assistance programs that may be available after severe storms.

Insurance Considerations

If fallen trees or debris cause damage to your property, consult your homeowner's insurance policy. Document the damage with photographs and descriptions to facilitate the claims process.

Preventing Future Damage

While you can't prevent every storm, some measures can minimize the impact:

Regular Tree Maintenance: Prune dead or weakened branches before storms to reduce the risk of falling.

Assess Tree Health: Periodically assess your trees' health to identify potential hazards and address them proactively.

Secure Outdoor Items: Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that can become debris in strong winds.

Plant Wisely: Choose trees and shrubs that are well-suited to your area's climate and soil conditions to prevent uprooting.

Debris and fallen trees in the aftermath of St. Louis storms may be daunting, but with the right approach, you can restore your property's beauty and functionality. By following these steps, collaborating with professionals, and taking preventive measures, you'll be better prepared to tackle the challenges posed by nature's forces. Reclaiming your space after a storm is not just about cleaning up – it's about reclaiming your peace of mind and your property's potential.

Unlocking Cost Savings: Effective Strategies for Property Maintenance

6/29/2023 (Permalink)

Property maintenance costs can quickly add up, eating into your budget and hindering financial growth. Whether you're a homeowner, property manager, or investor, finding ways to save money on property maintenance is essential for long-term success. In this blog, we will explore practical strategies that can help you minimize expenses while ensuring your property remains in excellent condition.

Prioritize Preventive Maintenance

Prevention is the key to reducing maintenance costs. By implementing a proactive approach, you can identify and address potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Regular inspections, routine maintenance, and timely repairs can help you catch small problems early on, saving you significant expenses in the long run. Create a maintenance checklist and schedule regular inspections to stay on top of necessary tasks.

Perform Regular Cleaning and Upkeep

Regular cleaning and upkeep not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property but also contribute to its longevity. Create a cleaning schedule that includes tasks such as gutter cleaning, window washing, pressure washing, and landscaping. By regularly maintaining these areas, you can prevent dirt, debris, and other build-ups that could lead to more significant problems down the line.

DIY vs. Professional Services

While it may be tempting to handle all maintenance tasks yourself, it's essential to assess your skill level and the complexity of the job. Some tasks, such as minor repairs and basic maintenance, can be done DIY-style, saving you money on labor costs. However, for more specialized or complex tasks, it's often wiser to hire professional contractors. Attempting unfamiliar repairs could lead to costly mistakes.

Develop Relationships with Reliable Contractors

Building relationships with reliable contractors can provide you with peace of mind and potential cost savings. Seek out contractors who have a good reputation, offer competitive pricing, and provide quality workmanship. By working with the same contractors consistently, you can negotiate better rates, benefit from their familiarity with your property, and receive priority service in emergencies. Additionally, they can provide valuable advice on maintenance strategies and help identify cost-effective solutions.

Focus on Energy Efficiency

Energy costs can account for a significant portion of property maintenance expenses. Implementing energy-efficient practices can help reduce utility bills and lower overall maintenance costs. Install energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs, and consider upgrading appliances to energy-saving models. Proper insulation, sealing air leaks, and using programmable thermostats can further enhance energy efficiency. Conduct regular energy audits to identify areas where improvements can be made.

Plan for Long-Term Maintenance

Developing a long-term maintenance plan allows you to anticipate and budget for future expenses. Identify the lifespan of major components, such as roofing, HVAC systems, and plumbing, and plan for replacements or repairs accordingly. By spreading out the costs over time, you can avoid sudden financial burdens and take advantage of competitive pricing through proper research and contractor selection.

Saving money on property maintenance costs requires a proactive and strategic approach. By prioritizing preventive maintenance, performing regular cleaning and upkeep, assessing when to hire professionals versus handling tasks yourself, building relationships with reliable contractors, focusing on energy efficiency, embracing technology, and planning for long-term maintenance, you can effectively reduce expenses without compromising the condition of your property. Remember, investing in proper maintenance is a smart financial decision that ensures your property remains a valuable asset for years to come.

The Hidden Problem in Your Home

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Home Flood Problems

If you have a feeling that you haven't caught all the storm damage in your home, you are probably right. There are plenty of places where mold might hide. That sinking feeling isn't paranoia; it's more likely a combination of common sense and your own intuition telling you that your home flood problems are not over.

There are a few times you should call up a restoration company to finish off your water damage repairs, such as:

• If you smell something musty or rotten
• Moldy patches reappear
• Your house's air seems more humid than normal, or certain surfaces seem damper
  
  

Trust Your Intuition

It might be difficult to gauge certain aspects of your home flood remediation process, especially if you've done some of the work yourself and contracted out other tasks. The best guideline is to trust your feelings. You have likely developed a subconscious knowledge of certain things about your home, such as how fast mildew appears in a shower enclosure. If you're getting more water-related issues than you did before the flood, it could be a sign of a hidden problem.

Follow Your Nose

The human sense of smell is amazing; you have the ability to pick up certain scents in minuscule quantities. If it seems musty or slightly rotten to you, water might remain soaked into some of the materials in your home.

Trust All Your Senses

Your sense of touch might also prove to be a valuable ally when detecting invisible water damage on your property. Like most houses in Brentwood, MO your property probably has many places for water to hide. You might be harboring moisture in your crawlspace, your attic, under your floor, or even in the spaces in between your walls. This typically manifests in many ways, such as a humid environment or tile floors that sometimes seem cold and wet, for example.

Nobody wants to do a home flood restoration job over and over. However, you might have a hidden problem that needs some work. Trust your instincts if you think you have an issue. Water damage left alone simply causes more issues in the future.

How to Avoid Commercial Storm Damage

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

Don't Let A Winter Storm Derail Your Business

A winter storm can occur at any time so it's vital that you're prepared to protect your commercial building in Brentwood, MO. Taking the proper preventative measures can help ensure business continuity, avoid unnecessary property damage and, most importantly, keep your employees safe.

1. Sign Up for Emergency Alerts.
It's almost impossible to prepare for storm damage if you don't know what's going on. There are several alert systems available that can help you stay up to date on severe weather activity. It's just as important that you listen and abide by the authorities' instructions during the storm as well.

2. Keep Your Gutters Clean.
You should regularly remove debris from your building's gutters regardless of the weather. When your gutters and pipes are obstructed, they cannot drain water off of the roof properly, which can result in pooling and flooding.

3. Insulate Your Building's Pipes.
A winter storm puts your building's pipes at risk for freezing over. When water freezes, it expands, which puts unnecessary stress on your pipes and can ultimately result in a pipe break. You can prevent this by adding insulation to rooms with exposed piping, or applying insulating products, such as heat tape or pipe sleeves, directly to exposed piping.

4. Trim Overgrown Tree Branches.
High winds can transform overgrown tree branches into dangerous projectiles. Trimming back excessive plant growth is the best way to prevent a tree branch from hurling itself through your window.

5. Install a Backup Generator.
Some storms might not warrant an evacuation. If the authorities say that it's safe enough to remain in the building, you want to make sure you can keep working. Installing a backup generator is a great way to ensure that your building has a steady power supply throughout the duration of the storm.
Don't let a winter storm derail your business and inflict unnecessary property damage. The above methods can help prevent damage, but they cannot guarantee your complete safety. Contact storm remediation experts if your property has suffered physical damages.

4 Tips to Prevent a Sewage Backup

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Four Things You Can Do To Prevent a Backup In Your Home

Going about daily life rarely comes with thinking about where your waste goes. That quickly comes to the forefront when a sewage backup happens in your Rock Hill, MO, home. At the basic level, this happens when water flows backward into the home. Common culprits include flooding, storm damage, blockage from roots, and broken pipes. Below are four things you can do to help prevent a backup in your home.

1. Avoid Clogs
Sinks and toilets are designed for certain things to be flushed away. In the kitchen, be sure not to pour grease or oils down the drain. They can solidify, blocking the water flow. Drain traps can be used to catch larger pieces of food that don’t easily break down. Consider cleaning drains once a month. This can be as simple as using a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and water. When it comes to toilets, always remember that human waste and toilet paper should be the only things being flushed.

2. Inspect Plumbing
Instead of waiting for sewage waters to rise and needing a plumber to provide sewer cleaning services, regularly check plumbing fixtures. Ensure there are no leaks or damage that could result in water overflowing the main sewer drain.

3. Install a Backwater Valve
Although they may not be suitable for every home, these valves can be a benefit for many others. It is designed to detect backward flow while still letting water from fixtures easily flow out of the home. Once it detects high levels, a flap on the valve closes to keep the unwanted water out.

4. Replace Old Lines
In more established areas, the sewer lines may be made of metal or clay. Tree roots and rocks can eventually lead to cracks and breakage. If it seems you need to call a plumber more often than you should, it might be time to replace these lines with advanced plastic or PVC pipes.
If a backup happens, it doesn’t have to mean long-term damage and odors. Flood, water, and mold damage experts can quickly clean up the mess and make the right repairs to get your home back to normal.

Why Storm Shutters Are Important

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Different Types Of Shutters And Their Prices

One of the most important aspects of owning a house is to take every step possible to protect your home. It is vital for homeowners who live in states that are at high risk for hurricanes and high winds to install storm shutters, which are coverings that go over windows to protect them. They keep homes safe in hazardous weather and protect the interior as well as the exterior. The following explains the different types of shutters and what their prices are.

1. Colonial

These permanently-mounted storm shutters offer a pleasing aesthetic appeal as well as protection from high winds. They mount to the window and come in a variety of designs and materials, including wood and polycarbonate. The cost for these shutters is typically around $200-$500 per window.

2. Bahama Hurricane Shutters

In addition to offering storm protection, these shutters are ideal in hotter climates as they provide optimal shade to a home. They are hinged and mounted to the top of windows. The average cost is usually about $15-$20 per square foot.

3. Accordion Shutters

These storm shutters are usually made of metal and must be manually operated by the homeowner. They are in a box that is bolted around the windows. The cost is around $15-$25 per square foot.

4. Storm Panel

Storm panel shutters are only placed on windows before severe weather strikes and are usually made of aluminum, polycarbonate or steel. These usually cost about $7-$15 for each panel.

5. Plywood

Plywood is an option for quick and temporary shutters. The material, at $1 per square foot, is the cheapest option available. However, it can be difficult to install and is extremely heavy.
If you live in Brentwood, MO, it is crucial to protect your home from high winds. There are a wide variety of different shutter options available to cover your needs. Storm damage specialists can help with the proper installation of storm shutters so you can rest easy knowing your home is secure and safe from dangerous weather.

The Perils of Black Water

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Floodwaters enter a home in Clayton, MO.

Water Damage Categories

After a flood occurs in Clayton, MO, the lingering effects of water take on many different forms. Three categories describe the different types of water damage that could exist after a disaster. The categories describe not only the intensity of the damage but also the method necessary for cleaning and repairing the destruction.

1. Category 3, the category into which all floodwater falls, is the most perilous and requires the most intensive cleanup. This type of water is called black water.

• What is it? Category 3 water comes from outside sources, such as sewage. Bacteria contaminate these sources to a dangerous level.

• What does it affect? The water impacts any surface that is porous. Contaminated water soaks into materials, rendering them dangerous to anyone who encounters them.

• How do you clean nonporous materials? Clean areas that are unable to soak up water by simply disinfecting surfaces.
• How do you clean porous materials? First, contain the affected areas by setting off the contaminated areas. Then, cut out materials containing sewage. Replace with new parts.

2. Category 2, called grey water, describes damage due to water that is somewhat contaminated, such as water from the dishwasher. The water will not make you sick unless you drink a lot of it. The water damage is cleaned similarly to Category 1. Technicians may additionally use a disinfectant.

3. Category 1 describes damage due to clean water, such as a broken pipe. To clean, technicians simply remove water from affected materials with an extractor, drill holes under baseboards to allow air flow, and arrange air movers and dehumidifiers to dry things out.

When you begin the process of cleaning and repairing destruction due to water, first determine the category of the damage. Use this knowledge to determine how to safely and efficiently disinfect and restore affected and contaminated building materials. Remember that water damage due to category 3 waters is perilous. Avoid contact with contaminated water or materials. The water will not harm you if you know what it is, what it affects, and how to clean it.