Recent Storm Damage Posts
Flood Damage Restoration Services for Helena Residents
10/14/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO vans carry submersible pumps to extract floodwater from Helena properties. "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Effectively Restores Flood Damage in Helena
Helena boasts deep historical roots, stunning natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and a welcoming community. It has numerous attractions, ranging from extensive parks and art museums to walking and hiking trails that offer unforgettable recreational opportunities. The city is home to Archie Bray, a world-renowned ceramics center.
However, like many areas, Helena remains vulnerable to natural disasters, including floods. When heavy rains or other water-related incidents strike, they can cause significant damage, leading to a wide range of issues in your home, like water-soaked carpets, warped flooring, and mold growth. In such cases, quick action and the help of a professional flood damage restoration service are crucial to minimize further damage. SERVPRO® provides prompt flood damage restoration services to quickly and effectively restore your property. Our team of IICRC-certified and highly experienced technicians is ready to help restore your property 24/7.
Flood damage in your basement can be overwhelming. SERVPRO specialists are Here To Help® with thorough drying, cleaning, and decontamination using the latest equipment, techniques, and technology to ensure everything is restored to its preloss condition.
Using industrial-grade vacuums and submersible pumps, we quickly remove the water from the basement to mitigate further damage and mold growth. We then use state-of-the-art air movers and dehumidifiers to effectively dry everything and prevent residual moisture from causing long-term damage.
Basement flood waters can bring contaminants, dirt, and debris. Our team thoroughly cleans and sanitizes every affected area using specialized cleaning agents to eliminate health risks and remove stains and odors.
Safety is a priority during flood damage restoration. SERVPRO team members exercise caution by pumping water from your basement and crawl spaces to prevent the foundation and walls from collapsing from the resulting hydrostatic pressure.
SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls is Faster to any size disaster™. Call us at (406) 458-6008 for effective flood damage restoration services.
Specialized Extraction after Flood Damage Affects Helena Homes
12/18/2023 (Permalink)
If your Helena home suffers from storm damage, call SERVPRO. We're Faster to any size disaster.™
Unique Flood Restoration Facilitated by SERVPRO®
Helena is the state capital of Montana, serving diverse political and administrative roles for the state. Its status is reflected in its architecture, seen in government buildings and historic sites. Some notable architectural landmarks include Last Chance Gulch, Reeder's Alley, Montana State Capitol, and Kessler Brewing Co. The city has different cultural offerings, including art galleries and theaters like Helena Avenue Theatre. Montana Playwrights Network, Bear's Den Custom Framing/Alan Snell Gallery, and Holter Museum of Art.
When flood damage affects Helena’s properties, it can leave significant amounts of water, silt, mud, and other debris. Removing these unwanted materials is essential for restoration, yet it takes work. For example, scooping out significant water volumes can take too long, worsening structural damage. Silt and other debris may be contaminated with biohazards or chemicals, making it dangerous to remove them. SERVPRO helps offset these challenges by providing unique extraction resources.
Resources that ease extraction
- Self-priming trash pumps
- Vacuum water extractors
- Shovels
Because the floodwater filling up your home contains silt and mud, extracting it using ordinary pumps or extractors can hit a snag when they clog up. Trash pumps pass solids as small as 5/8″ to as large as 3″ thus removing the debris-filled water fast. Most are portable and can move 10,000 to 60,000 gallons an hour, thus finishing extraction tasks more quickly.
If debris is not a problem, but you have a big property like Mountain View Meadows, the water volume may be challenging. Water extractors such as the truck-mounted variety can remove water fast enough, neutralizing the challenge. SERVPRO crews also have portable units for handling individual rooms or concealed areas.
In some cases, the floodwater recedes, draining out your property. However, hazardous wastes like silt, which may contain lead or asbestos, are left behind. Simple tools like shovels and rakes simplify the removal process while keeping those handling the restoration safe from exposure to hazardous materials.
SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls provides essential resources for convenient flood damage restoration. Call us at (406) 458-6008.
Water Removal Caused by Ice Dam on Helena Homeowner's Roof
3/5/2023 (Permalink)
After a storm dumps excess water into your home, time is of the essence for water removal and storm damage remediation. Contact SERVPRO 24/7.
Can SERVPRO Help with Water Removal After a Snow Storm in Helena?
Freeze-thaw cycles in Helena can cause considerable damage to a home, introducing water into attics as ice dams form on the roof. Not all water can make it off the roof when the snow melts after a storm. Some of the water freezes, creating an ice dam blocking thawing water from escaping. It often pools on the roof until it seeps into the attic, soaking insulation and penetrating living areas.
SERVPRO can help remove water from the attic and ceilings of affected rooms in Helena. Depending on the type of insulation in the attic, we may need to remove all of the insulation, dry the attic and install new high-quality insulation. Drywall on the ceiling of impacted rooms may need to be removed if it has absorbed moisture and been compromised.
However, preventing ice dams on your home's roof should also be addressed since the next storm introducing more snow and rain can cause a similar event. SERVPRO recommends an assessment of the condition of your roof to identify solutions that can prevent ice dams from forming again. For example, the following may be considered:
- Install high R-Value insulation in the attic to prevent heat from escaping from living areas
- Install air vents in the roof to assist fresh air entering the attic space in summer and winter to avoid premature aging of your shingles.
- Install rubber membranes and ice shields around skylights and six feet up from roof lines
- Temporarily install heated cables to melt any ice that may form on your roof.
No one wants to deal with repeated water removal issues. SERVPRO can assist with moisture reduction and drying to prevent further damage and mold growth in your attic.
Call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls for water removal services. We provide service to Helena and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (406) 458-6008.
How Can I Recover my Home After a Storm?
8/15/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO professionals are trained to handle all types of water damage.
Violent Weather Events Can Lead to Flood Damage in Your Helena Home. SERVPRO has Experience Controlling Water Intrusion after Storm Events
How Does Water Intrusion Affect a Property?
Flooding can cause severe harm to your Helena residence by bursting through doors or windows and migrating quickly through rooms. Water migration affects properties in two ways. The first is from direct contact with materials that absorb moisture and can warp, bleed, or distort. The second is by increasing the amount of water in an indoor environment's air. High levels of humidity, and the resulting condensation, can lead to expensive losses as well as wall and ceiling damages. Stopping the spread of standing water and bringing in controls to the humidity is essential to recovering your property after a flood event. SERVPRO technicians have extensive experience working with flooded properties and can implement an efficient drying method to mitigate further losses.
How quickly does floodwater damage a property?
Water begins to cause flood damage as soon as it enters your Helena home. While it may appear as though standing water remains in place, it rapidly increases indoor humidity while seeping into baseboards, wall cavities, or subfloors. The presence of moisture not only exerts pressure on the structure of your home through water weight but can also increase the chances of mold growth or condensation damage. Quick response within the first three days of flooding is vital to recovering the majority of losses in your property. SERVPRO operates twenty-four hours a day and can perform essential emergency mitigation to prevent flooding from causing irreversible harm.
How does water move through a home?
- Liquid flow occurs from plumbing malfunctions, groundwater flooding, roof leakages, and flash flooding and is commonly observed in properties with storm damages.
- Air movement occurs when bodies of water evaporate and enter into cracks, crevices, or cavities, causing water infiltration
- Capillary suction occurs when water moves into porous materials like upholstery or carpeting and spreads rapidly
- Vapor diffusion causes lower level flooding to affect upper levels without an appropriate vapor barrier installed
How does flooding affect ceilings, walls, and flooring?
Experience is central to efficient restoration. Water moves through materials differently, which can complicate drying or invalidate a stock drying method. SERVPRO technicians work in the local area, which gives us a first-hand understanding of the typical material construction of residential communities. Knowing the floor, ceiling, or wall assembly of a building helps us to understand where to look for moisture and what methods your home requires to dry efficiently. If water affects the first floor of your property and migrates to the basement or cellar, there may be a cavity in-between the two rooms. Drying each room individually without inspecting the ceiling cavity could lead to mold or water damage that reveals itself several days into restoration.
SERVPRO technicians use borescopes, moisture probes, and our knowledge of floor assembly to ensure the drying procedure takes into account your home's unique architecture.
What building materials absorb the most water during flooding?
- Carpeting, textiles, and upholstery can absorb large amounts of moisture in a short period
- Unfinished natural materials like the wood used in the frame of a building can become saturated with floodwaters
- Gypsum board, fiber-glass, or insulation
Are stone and masonry affected by water intrusion?
Concrete and bricks are semi-porous materials and can become adversely affected by water absorption. These materials typically take longer to absorb moisture. However, the resulting damage is much more severe than porous materials due to expansion or cracking. Drying concrete floors focuses on raising the temperature of the surface level to draw out moisture. Placing moisture sensors directly onto the surface of concretes can help SERVPRO technicians to ascertain how much water remains in the material and allows us to ensure floors are at low risk of damage after flood restoration.
When is it safe to return home after flooding?
Flooded properties can have severe structural issues as well as water contamination. SERVPRO conducts a walkthrough with you to inform you of the drying procedure and the outcomes of our restoration. After a walkthrough, it is safe for you to return to the property because it is thoroughly dry and safe from microbial infestation. Walkthroughs occur once mitigation is complete, and any damaged items or structure returns to their preloss condition.
Understanding your home's unique architecture and building materials is vital to performing a comprehensive restoration. Contact SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008 to mitigate losses.
Flood Damage in Great Falls
6/23/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO makes flood damage "Like it never even happened."
What are the Major Dangers with Flood Damage in Great Falls Homes?
Even half-an-inch of flood damage to a house has the potential to leave behind significant destruction. The primary key to water loss is to begin cleanup efforts as rapidly as possible.
Flood damage brings many issues to Great Falls homes that include safety issues for homeowners to be on the lookout for. Several elements make flood water more dangerous than other water loss events.
A few of the most common hazards that SERVPRO techs run into when mitigating flood loss include:
- The danger of shock from water entering light fixtures and contacting outlets.
- The presence of toxins, sewage, mud, and debris.
- Slip and fall accidents
The certified techs of SERVPRO have access to a broad array of equipment to extract even embedded moisture for all types of flooring. They can then use their air movers and dehumidifiers to rapidly dry the property to ready it for repairs and complete restoration.
SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008 can handle any size of flood damage and make the water loss “Like it never even happened.”
Our Experts Act Fast In Helena After A Flood
5/21/2022 (Permalink)
Dealing with flooding and subsequent flood damage in your home can certainly seem overwhelming. Our team is standing by with water removal equipment.
Flood Damage in Your Helena Home can Cause Structural Changes
When flooding happens in your Helena neighborhood, advisories are shown on television regarding the dangers of flowing water, especially in low-lying sections of the road. This same force affects the structural framework of houses. While a house collapsing from flooding rarely happens, the damage can affect other elements inside the residence.
When we mitigate homes in Helena with flood damage, we remove the most damaged materials first. Removing carpeting, drywall, and paneling lets us see the extent of flood damage to floors and the frame. It also allows us to get direct air currents moving the moisture out of these components, helping them dry out rapidly.
Inside crawlspaces and recessed areas of the home, mud and silt may have collected during the flood. We need to remove this debris as soon as possible to help decrease the amount of moisture in the property. This also removes copious amounts of microscopic organisms.
During this stage, as in many others, we wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure our safety. Even in areas that your family never enters, we spray the surfaces down with clean water and then apply an antimicrobial spray. We then dry these areas so our building crew can check for warping of beams, displaced studs and support systems, and ensure your house remains stable.
Other changes because of the water’s force can happen on ground floors, above crawl spaces. Having these opened up lets us check for warping, weakened joints, and gives us an opportunity to brace any areas needing such reinforcement.
When the wood frame dries completely, we can reinstall drywall or paneling. Also, with the flooring, we can check for any trip hazards that may have developed before the water receded. We want the flooring to dry completely before installing carpet or other flooring, as this avoids trapped water and microbial growth.
SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls helps our neighbors recover after disasters like flood damage. Call (406) 458-6008 and we can help your family by making it “Like it never even happened.”
Flood Damage in Your Helena Home
4/21/2022 (Permalink)
Count on the training, equipment, and experience of SERVPRO to mitigate and remediate storm and flood damage to your home.
Spring Melt and Storms Can Bring Flood Damage to Helena
Although the past winter months in Helena have been drier than average, homeowners cannot rely on a lack of snow when preparing for the possibility of spring flooding. As the warmer months approach, snowmelt joins with rains as potential flooding risks. Low temperatures dip to or below freezing into April, freezing the ground, and leaving it unable to absorb rain runoff. With nowhere to go but overland, torrential rains leading to flash flooding can get into basements and crawl spaces.
Fast, Safe Response Is Crucial After Flooding
You have no time to wait when storms bring flood damage to your Helena home. If water collects in the lower levels, deterioration of building materials begins immediately. Our team has comprehensive Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training in water damage recovery, including scoping and accommodating safety concerns like electrical and slip and fall hazards.
Water Extraction Challenges
Swiftly removing the water is the priority after contamination considerations are met. Floodwaters also bring far more than moisture into your home. They sweep over the ground and pavement, picking up chemicals, organic waste, and even sewage if the storm drains are overwhelmed. Waste drains inside your home can back up after overland flooding. SERVPRO crews manage the contamination complications in a variety of ways:
- Broadcast spraying of disinfectants at the beginning of the project
- Shoveling out silt and other solid debris for appropriate disposal before pumping or extraction
- Erecting a negative pressure air scrubbing system in the workspace to prevent drift of hazardous airborne pathogens
- Containment of the contaminated water for disposal following local regulation
Cleaning and Drying
After extracting all the liquid water and checking for any trapped behind structural components in recesses and building cavities, the SERVPRO crew focuses on cleaning and disinfection. We match the soiling to our proprietary cleaning products, making sure we remove all residues. Application of EPA-registered antimicrobials follows to inhibit mold growth and kill remaining pathogens. Finally, we use moisture data gathered throughout the project to determine drying goals. Using air movement, temperature manipulations, and dehumidifiers, we bring the moisture levels in your home back to normal.
Count on the training, equipment, and experience of SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls to mitigate and remediate storm and flood damage to your home. We respond to your call 24/7 at (406) 458-6008.
How Can Helena Residents Recover from Flood Damage?
2/25/2022 (Permalink)
Has flooding recently affected your home? Team SERVPRO is standing by to provide necessary services to remediate the flood damage situation.
SERVPRO Provides Services to Restore Helena Homes After Flooding
Some of the hardest restoration jobs our SERVPRO team in Helena faces happen after storms cause flood damage. They are complex, time-sensitive, and time-consuming, with the risk of secondary damage increasing every minute water is left standing. Finding a reputable company to provide emergency services when you need them the most offers great peace of mind to our clients.
Flood damage restoration in Helena under the supervision of our certified SERVPRO technicians is available by calling our 24/7 hotline. We recognize the importance of extracting water as soon as possible, so we travel with industrial-grade equipment to offer our clients the most efficient water removal options. Crucial to our success is performing a full inspection of the whole property, even when flood damage is not apparent. As recommended by industry best practices, basements, crawl spaces, and wall cavities are all inspected and dealt with carefully. When we arrive, you should expect the following services-
- Water extraction- we perform this step with specialized equipment, including pumps, wands, and dehumidifiers, among others. We discard flood water as required by regulations, which is particularly important when handling floodwater full of debris and microorganisms.
- Removal of debris- flood water typically brings debris into the home, which needs to be discarded before it causes damage to escalate and makes flooring and other goods unrecoverable. We pay close attention to safety issues and potential structural damage in every step.
- Sanitizing- as we dry the home and inspect for mold, we also focus on sanitizing it. We discard items such as porous furniture and carpets while cleaning salvageable surfaces and restoring them. As needed, we also transport some items to offsite locations for specialized cleaning and drying solutions.
SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls is your ally when emergencies occur. Call us at (406) 458-6008 and let us leave your home “Like it never even happened.”
Where Does Water Threaten Helena Homes This Winter?
12/22/2021 (Permalink)
is your home ready for winter? Taking protective measures now can help prevent damage when the temperature drops.
Damage is Possible in Many Forms During the Bitter Cold of the Winters Helena Homes Experience
The winter months can produce extreme conditions for homes and businesses. Because elements like the plumbing and roof are targets of harsh circumstances, it is essential to understand how a home might be at risk.
How Do Water Lines Freeze?
Because frozen pipes and ice damming in Helena homes produce some of the most extreme water damages, property owners must stay prepared for these possibilities. Lines can freeze when cold air encircles a pipe and solidifies standing water.
How Can Frozen Plumbing Be Avoided?
It is feasible to reduce the possibility of water freezing in water service lines through specific preventative measures. Ensuring appropriate insulation and circulating warm air in the house provides the most complete defense against freezing. Allowing minimal water flow, such as a thin, steady stream, can prevent total freezing of the line.
Does Freezing Mean Water Damage?
Just because a pipe in your home freezes does not instantly mean substantial water damage will result. It is only when the pressure generated by the expanding solid splits or ruptures the line that damage results. When handled quickly, homeowners can thaw out these blockages of ice with direct heat from tools like a hairdryer in many situations.
SERVPRO is Here to Help
These described situations can be potentially hazardous and threatening to a structure. Intruding water into the attic or a burst pipe can both leave a property contending with hundreds of gallons of water or more, making fast and reliable mitigation solutions critical. Our SERVPRO professionals mobilize quickly with equipment to help like:
- Air Movers
- Submersible Pumps
- Dehumidifiers
- Portable Heaters
Despite the bitter winters that homes in the area can experience, our SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls team stays ready to help with fast mitigation and drying services when water damages result. Give our restorers a call today at (406) 458-6008.
Repairing Storm Damage and Removing Floodwater from Helena Homes
10/8/2021 (Permalink)
When you are facing a flooding situation, contact our SERVPRO team for effective services. Our technicians are standing 24/7 by to take your call.
As a Trusted Full-Service Contractor, We can Help with the Restoration and Repairs of Helena Homes
From wet snow heaping on an aging roof to creeks and streams rising from torrential rainfalls, the possibilities of storm and flood damage cannot be ignored in Helena area homes. With how quickly situations can develop and become a hazard for occupants of the residence, we have a team of professionals prepared to respond 24/7.
Emergency Services to Mitigate Losses
- Water Removal – Extraction is vital for overcoming flood damage in Helena homes, as pooling water can absorb into materials and cause costlier restoration needs.
- Controlled Demolition – As a trusted contractor in the state, we can assess the structural concerns and safety hazards to quickly begin controlled demolition.
- Content Relocation – Protecting what matters most means relocating contents to an undamaged area of the house while restoration gets underway
Assessing Structural Damage to a Home’s Envelope
Knowing the extent of the damage to the property can help our IICRC-certified technicians prepare for the needed mitigation, restoration, and reconstruction actions. Identifying the vulnerabilities to areas like the roof or foundation allows us to provide repairs promptly to prevent further water penetration.
Repairs and Reconstruction Vital to Restoring Storm-Damaged Properties
We can provide the needed build-back services to repair and reconstruct compromised structural elements with a general contractor license. Damaged roofs can be common with situations like prolonged heavy snowfall, so we replace or reinforce damaged joists and replace underlayment and shingles “Like it never even happened.”
Storms can be a threatening situation for homes in our vast service area. When weather leads to structural vulnerabilities and flood damage, our SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls team is ready to help 24/7. We have a team ready to mobilize when you need it at (406) 458-6008.
How Do I Know if I Need Flood Restoration After a Storm Hits Helena?
8/17/2021 (Permalink)
When a storm causes flooding in your home, calling the certified technicians at SERVPRO is your best recourse. We are standing by 24/7.
SERVPRO is Available 24/7 for Water Damage Restoration in Helena
Anyone who lives in the Rocky Mountains knows that thunderstorms can come in fast and furious in the summer. It could be nice and sunny for most of the day, and then suddenly, a fierce storm can strike your neighborhood. Mountain rainstorms often bring with them high-speed winds and sometimes even hail or grapple. This combination of negative weather occurrences could create a situation where your structure gets breached.
During flood damage restoration in Helena, our SERVPRO technicians often find that a branch or a rock that blew from the wind gets thrown into your house and breaks a window or part of your roof. Once the inside of your structure gets exposed to the elements, more issues could take place. For example, if it is still raining heavily after one of your windows breaks, moisture can leak in from the hole and damage your building materials and contents.
If items inside your house ever get wet after a storm, our SERVPRO can help you by providing the following services:
- Emergency Services after Water Damage
- Leaking Roof from Storms
- Ceiling Repairs from Water Damages
- Flood Restoration
- Water Removal Services
- Water Clean Up
Since rainwater comes from the outdoors, there is a chance it is contaminated, so we classify it as a category two water damage, and we take extra steps to get rid of contaminants. If any of your carpets or other porous materials got wet, we can remove them and then spray antibacterial disinfectants on your non-porous building materials like floorboards and wall studs.
If water ever comes into your house after a branch shatters one of your windows, call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008.
Who Can Help with Basement Flooding Cleanup in Great Falls?
8/10/2021 (Permalink)
Water backup in your home? Team SERVPRO has the water removal equipment and certified technicians to mitigate the situation.
SERVPRO Offers Flood Restoration Services in Great Falls
Everyone who lives in the great state of Montana knows that this is the time of year where the region can see heavy rainstorms. If enough rain comes down quickly, it is possible that flash flooding conditions could exist. Once the water starts building up outside, it could shoot down a hill and threaten your home. If enough water builds up around your house, groundwater could begin to get into your house.
During flood removal in Great Falls, our SERVPRO technicians can take extra steps to keep your home from getting contaminated by harmful bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites that live outdoors. If the moisture enters your house from the ground, it is considered black water or a category-three water damage scenario. When dealing with category-three projects, we use all of the same precautions as if we were conducting sewage cleanup.
Once we figure out the source of the water and where it went, we can conduct the following:
- Water Clean Up
- Water Damage Repairs
- Water Removal Services
- Basement Flooding Cleanup
- Fix a Leaking Roof from Storms
- Ceiling Repairs from Water Damages
When black, muddy water from the outside gets into your house, one of the first things we can do is set up a containment chamber in the affected area. We can then hook up an air scrubber to the section to cause negative air pressure to pull contaminants out of the air.
If your carpets or walls ever get wet after a storm, they could be contaminated by the dirty water. Therefore, it is wise to call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008 24/7.
What You Should Do When Flood Damage Impacts Your Helena Home!
6/18/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO utilizes advanced equipment for storm water removal and drying in the Greater Helena area
Call SERVPRO Immediately to Mitigate the Storm Damage
Montana is known for breath-taking mountains, rolling hills, and deep valleys. Living at the base of mountains can provide some of the best views, and they never get old. However, when it comes to water, it follows the flow of gravity, and living in a valley means your home is at the lowest point.
Never hesitate to call for local Helena flood damage restoration services if your home becomes endangered during a storm. Imagine your home is situated in the Prickly Pear Valley, near the outskirts of your city. One day, a severe thunderstorm occurs, and your basement begins to flood.
Here at SERVPRO, our highly trained technicians are flood damage experts. As it rains, and the water collects, it can create. Very quickly, the water begins to carry far more than just H2O. Many people do not realize that something as simple as rainwater can carry harmful objects, chemicals, and biowaste in its currents. However, our technicians understand this process and know how to remove the water from your property safely.
When we get into your basement, we can begin by removing any furniture, belongings, and storage, so we can ensure all water is cleaned up. Should you have any waterlogged boxes or possessions, we can send them to our facility for treatment. There, your belongings can be dried and then stored in new boxes.
Our technicians use advanced technology during every job they face. In your basement, we can use devices such as:
With the help of our advanced technology, we can remove the water from your basement and then set up drying equipment. Our goal is to return your home to you, feeling "Like it never even happened."
When it comes to water damage repairs, we have your back. Do not hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls by dialing (406) 458-6008. We're available 24/7.
Can SERVPRO Overcome Flood Damage in Great Falls with Water Removal Services?
5/3/2021 (Permalink)
Regardless as to why flooding occurred, water removal is essential. Call us at (406) 458-6008 for effective water removal and remediation services.
Standing Water Can be a Threatening Condition After Flooding in Great Falls Houses
Flooding is not an uncommon scenario for homes and businesses in the area, making the fast response of SERVPRO professionals vital to protect the property and its contents. Our Great Falls team works to begin flood restoration and mitigation services as soon as possible.
What Tools Are Ideal for Water Clean Up in Great Falls?
Flood damage for Great Falls homes often requires water removal services first before other flood restoration efforts can begin. Basement flooding cleanup starts by removing any surface pooling, which can be more complicated and involved than clean water removal. Because of floating debris and solids in floodwater, only specific extraction tools our SERVPRO team uses can be effective. Some of these include:
- Trash pumps
- Truck-mount extractors
- Wet vacuums
Because of how quickly flood damage can spread in area homes, extraction and debris cleaning is critical. Our SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls team is ready to help 24/7 at (406) 458-6008.
What Happens to Wooden Furniture After Flood Damage?
2/22/2021 (Permalink)
We are equipped to restore your storm damage. Call us today!
SERVPRO Helps Protect Your Belongings
When a storm brings flood damage to your home, one of the biggest concerns is how to rescue any water-damaged furniture. Unfortunately, it does not take long for water to seep into furniture and cause problems. Thankfully, SERVPRO is here to help.
If you are worried about flood damage in Great Falls, it is vital to call us immediately. Water can damage furniture in several ways:
- Wood can swell and warp as it absorbs moisture.
- Upholstery can be left with stains.
- There is a risk of wood cracking during drying.
- Wet wood and upholstery provide a breeding ground for microbes.
SERVPRO uses moisture meters, probes, and hygrometers to measure moisture and humidity while drying your flood damaged furniture. Proper readings mean we can tweak the drying process to suit the furniture and minimize the risk of cracking or permanent damage. We can also apply anti-microbial and odor eating treatments to restore furniture “Like it never even happened.”
If you need help rescuing your furniture from flood damage, call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008.
Enjoy the Daybreaker Live Event With Friends and Family in Great Falls
12/18/2020 (Permalink)
Sometimes dancing in your home is the best medicine of happiness.
Joining Other Great Falls Residents in it is the Season to Dance Online Event.
Staying at home or spending hours in the office every day can make one’s body feel weary. Dancing, on the other hand, can help you feel fresh and ready to face the holidays with a bigger smile. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and Daybreaker Live, a wellness community present Tis the season to Dance, an online event held on December 19th 2020.
Since the holidays are a great time to give back to the community, AARP is making tickets free. Therefore, attendees should get ready to:
- Feel the human connection
- Practice Joy
- Move with reckless abandon.
Attendees should expect the event organizers and Karine Plantadit to follow through with the DOSE yoga joy practices. This can help them in self-reflection and rejuvenation. This is the last 2020 dance. Therefore, use these two hours to replenish your natural high.
SERVPRO of Helena and Great Falls welcomes you to the Tis the Season to Dance event. If storm flood damage has occurred in your Great Falls property, make sure you contact professional restorers immediately to avoid costly repairs. Talk to us today at (406) 458-6008. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Where Can Property Owners Seek Assistance When Flooding Occurs in their Homes After a Storm?
10/28/2020 (Permalink)
Our experienced SERVPRO professionals can assist you with every step of flood damage. Call us today.
Homeowners Can Hire SERVPRO Restorers in Great Falls to Mitigate the Storm Flood Damage in their Residences.
After a storm leads to flooding, it is essential to take quick action by contacting professional restorers immediately. SERVPRO technicians can help minimize the loss in your Great Falls property as well as the restoration cost. We are available around the clock to respond to our customer’s emergency call.
What damage can flooding cause?
When flood water leaks into your residence, it can cause severe damage to valuable contents and structures. The longer you ignore the flood damage in your Great Falls property, the more the building materials like drywall and wood can absorb moisture.
Most property owners ignore small flood leaks, which cause major structural damage in the long run. Small flood leaks into your basement or living room from a broken window can also cause severe damage to your wooden floor and valuable contents. It is essential to note that moisture boosts mold spores from dormant to active state of colonization. Mold can cause health issues to the property’s occupants. In addition, the leak can lead to wood rot if ignored for an extended period.
What should I do to ensure safety after flood damage?
We respond fast to emergency calls and begin the restoration process speedily. Our experienced technicians can minimize the damage and get your property to its former glory in a short period. Before our responders get to the affected property, we advise our customers to:
Avoid walking into the flooded area, especially if the electricity is on.
Wear gloves when handling items in floodwater to avoid cross-contamination.
Shut off utilities in the property, especially electricity and water
Throw away foodstuffs that came into contact with the floodwater.
How can you extract the high water levels in basements?
We use advanced equipment for effective and fast flood water extraction. Floodwater can bring different debris and soil into your property. Therefore, we can use a self-priming trash pump to extract the excess water in your basement. The equipment can pass solids together with floodwater. If we discover that there is water behind walls, we can conduct controlled demolition for easy access.
Is decontamination necessary?
Floodwater goes through several surfaces such as sewer lines and may tag along with small dead animals. The contamination can cause odors and serious health issues to the occupants. We can use antimicrobial sprays to decontaminate the affected area. Our flood restoration process usually involves:
Water extraction
Decontamination
Effective drying
Deodorization
SERVPRO is a fully equipped restoration firm. We have the training, skills, equipment and manpower required to tackle any kind of flood disaster.
Professionals with state-of-the-art equipment handle flood damage restoration best. Contact SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008 to restore your property. We can make the flooding incident seem, “Like it never even happened.”
What Should a Helena Homeowner Do with Carpets and Pad After Flooding Incidents?
10/9/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls can help you find the right solution when your home floods.
After Flood Damage Incidents at Your Helena Home, SERVPRO Can Help You Decide Whether to Dispose or Save Items
Carpets and pads are highly vulnerable to flood damage. The main problem is their porous nature, which allows instant absorption of water and contaminants. Therefore, the restoration of a house after flooding can be more challenging when carpeted areas are significantly affected. SERVPRO assists homeowners in Helena to complete renovation conveniently in such circumstances.
How do carpets and pad influence the renovation processes?
Our SERVPRO technicians pay special attention when performing flood damage renovation in Helena properties to overcome the challenges posed by tasks such as:
• Cleaning and decontaminating carpeted areas
• Drying carpets
• Carpet and pad removal
A flooding incident can involve different types of water. In case of a severe storm, winds and lightning can cause damage to the roof, allowing rainwater into the building. Alternatively, rising groundwater flowing around the house can find a way inside. The two situations require different restoration procedures since the first case involves clean water, while in the second scenario, the water is highly contaminated.
Does cleaning reverse the effects of flood damage?
Cleaning and decontamination only bear fruit when flooding involves uncontaminated water. In such a case, extracting the water and agitating the surface of the item helps deal with any soiling. As a CCT certified firm, technicians from our SERVPRO branch also utilize specialized carpet cleaning methods such as:
• Hot water extraction
• Bonnet cleaning
• Rotary jet extraction
What happens if items cannot be cleaned?
It is impossible to decontaminate carpets and pad affected by groundwater, so replacement is the only solution. However, the process of removing carpets requires a skillful approach since they cover vast areas. In most cases, there are heavy furniture items placed on top of the carpets. Our technicians simplify the process by cutting the carpet into small strips as we pull it from the floor for easier manipulation. Once removed, we can clean and decontaminate the floor before laying a new carpet.
SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls can help you find the right solution when your home floods. Call us at (406) 458-6008 to help resolve any issue, “Like it never even happened.”
How Do I Get Flood Water Out of My Great Falls Basement?
8/16/2020 (Permalink)
Flood damage can destroy your basement quickly. Contact SERVPRO for flood damage remediation services.
SERVPRO Uses Extraction Equipment to Remove Contaminated Flood Water out of your Great Falls Home
Inevitably flooding in Great Falls means that your basement takes the brunt of the damage, filling with floodwater. To best mitigate secondary damage that could impact your home's structural integrity, removing the water as quickly as possible is incredibly important.
Do I Need a Pump to Remove Water?
SERVPRO Uses the Proper Equipment to Extract Contaminated Water from Your Home
Flood damage indicates that there is contaminated water in your Great Falls basement. Floodwater contains outside debris that passed through sewage systems before entering your basement, making it category 3 or black water. If the water is more than two inches, standard deep extraction tools cannot adequately remove it. After they move furniture and containers potentially holding contaminants such as gasoline or paint, technicians determine whether or not you need a trash pump or a standard submersible pump or a combination of the two.
What is the Difference Between a Submersible and Trash Pump?
- A submersible pump removes suction lift limitations and pulls water up out of your basement.
- A trash pump removes both water and solid material but does not have the lift of a submersible pump.
- Self-priming trash pumps are classified as semi-trash, trash, full trash, or slurry, according to the size of debris they remove.
Technicians choose the appropriate pump based on your unique circumstances. The bigger the pump, the higher GPM (gallons per minute) or GPH (gallons per hour), and the quicker our team can remove the water from your basement. They also consider the distance the fluid needs to travel to the pump when choosing the correct pump(s) for your situation. If it is less than 25 feet, a trash pump is usually okay, and if it is more than 25 feet, they may require a high-pressure pump to remove the water.
For 24/7 assistance after a flood, contact SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.
Click here for more information about Great Falls.
I Have a Mess After a Recent Flood in my Helena home, What Do I Do?
5/17/2020 (Permalink)
To Address Flood Damage, SERVPRO Will Come to Your Helena Home to Formulate a Restoration Plan
Once the water recedes from a recent flood, you are left to deal with the fallout. Any of the surfaces throughout your home touched by the floodwater requires professional cleaning. This category 2 or category 3 water includes any variety of contaminants, all of which our trained technicians at SERVPRO know how to address and eliminate quickly and efficiently.
Can’t I Just Cleanup the Water Myself?
Any flood damage in Helena brings the potential for hidden moisture and the growth of harmful bacteria. Even if there is a small amount of moisture left behind, mold and mildew start to fester, making your interior air dangerous to breathe in. To make sure that we remove all of the water and moisture from your home, we bring industrial-strength equipment like:
• Pumps and Extraction Wands – We have truck-mounted extractors, submersible pumps, light wands, and rovers that allow us to pull up every bit of standing water.
• Air Movers and Fans – Our water restoration technicians (WRT) carefully plan for the best placement of this equipment to ensure adequate airflow. We control both the force and direction of the air as well as the temperature to amplify drying and prevent further damage.
• Dehumidifiers – With any flooding situation, excessive moisture in the air makes it difficult for natural evaporation to be enough. Our dehumidifiers are powerful enough to remove gallons of water from the air, thus bringing the relative humidity down much faster.
We Always Decontaminate and Disinfect
With any flood loss event, proper cleaning, decontamination, and disinfection are crucial. We bring along EPA-approved anti-bacterial agents for wiping down surfaces to ensure that your home is safe for you and your family to enter.
Nothing beats the flood damage mitigation services we have to offer at SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls. To deploy a team to your location in as little as four hours or less, call us at (406) 458-6008.
For more about Helena click here.
Flood Damage in Great Falls
3/28/2020 (Permalink)
“Like it never even happened.”
What are the Major Dangers with Flood Damage in Great Falls Homes?
Even half-an-inch of flood damage to a house has the potential to leave behind significant destruction. The primary key with any type of water loss is to begin cleanup efforts as rapidly as possible.
Flood damage brings many issues to Great Falls homes that include safety issues for homeowners to be on the lookout for. Several elements make flood water more dangerous than other types of water loss events.
A few of the most common hazards that SERVPRO techs run into when mitigation flood loss include:
The danger of shock from water entering light fixtures and coming into contact with outlets.
The presence of toxins, sewage, mud, and debris.
Slip and fall accidents
The certified techs of SERVPRO have access to a broad array of equipment to extract even embedded moisture for all types of flooring. They can then use their air movers and dehumidifiers to rapidly dry the property to ready it for repairs and complete restoration.
SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008 can handle any size flood damage and make the water loss, “Like it never even happened.”
For more about Great Falls click here.
After The Storm
8/6/2019 (Permalink)
Storm damage can be a devastating and life altering experience. The first days proceeding a major storm can leave a homeowner overwhelmed and perplexed about what to do next. Some careful and calculated planning will help you and your family return to normal as soon as possible.
Safety Concerns
Regardless of if your home was flooded, hit by torrential wind or was the casualty of an electrical storm, the end result is still dangerous. Electricity can be conducted into standing water and mold will most certainly be an issue. Until a thorough evaluation by a qualified person can be conducted, it’s best to avoid the site altogether. If it all possible, consider staying with relatives or at a hotel or a shelter. Make sure to bring a weeks’ worth of clothing and supplies. Your home should be professionally inspected prior to returning.
Government assistance
Often times after a major storm, FEMA will make provisions for those affected by major storm damage. This includes help with housing, meals, home repairs and assistance with filing insurance claims. For more information contact your local FEMA representative.
Documentation
Make sure to document as much as possible about the storm and the damage to your home, especially if your home owners insurance policy is more specific about the type of damage it will cover. Take as many photos as possible and note any major issues such as mold, exposed power lines and crumbling walls. This will all come in handy when filing a claim with your insurance company.
Filing a claim
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. A claims representative should be assigned to you. Work with him to initiate repairs. This process can sometimes drag on for several months, but generally speaking, most policies will pay for the damage after your deductible has been paid. More often than not, homeowners policies do not cover flooding. If your home has been flooded, you need to contact your flood insurance provider. If you do not have flood insurance, you will have to pay for your repairs out of pocket. If you live in an area where flooding is a potential, consider purchasing a flood insurance policy.
Contact SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls
As water and storm damage specialists, we have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete. 406-458-6008
After Storm Tips
8/3/2018 (Permalink)
Call us at 406-458-6008 for Helena or 406-952-1001 if you experience flooding.
Here are some tips in case you encounter flooding or flash flooding.
- Photograph The Damage. You can never take too many photos. Your insurance company will thank you and you will have a much easier time with your claim if you have good photos.
- Contact Your Insurance Provider. As soon as you have gathered preliminary information, you should contact your home insurance provider. In the event that your vehicle has suffered damage, contact your auto insurance provider.
- Safety First. Be mindful of fallen power lines and take care not to come in contact with electrically charged water.
- Inspect Plumbing. Turn of your water main if necessary. Contact a trusted plumbing contractor if you discover plumbing damage.
- Disconnect electrical appliances that have come in contact with water. Turn off main power at the power source. Contact a electrician if you discover damaged electrical wires.
- Inspect your roof. Heavy rains and wind may have dislodged some of your roofing. If you discover any damage, contact a roofing contractor.
- Contact SERVPRO of NW Portland. If the storm has resulted in flooding, call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls immediately to start the water remediation process. Secondary water damage can occur in as little as 24 hours.
- DO NOT attempt to remove fallen trees yourself. Contact a reputable arborist if the tree is on your property or the appropriate municipality if it has fallen across public lands or roads.
- Always work with trustworthy local service providers. Unfortunately, there are some companies that attempt to take advantage of storm events. Always obtain a written contract that outlines the service expectations and a breakdown of costs.
SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a storm 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. If storm damage strikes your home, trust the damage restoration industry leader. 406-458-6008
How to properly prepare for a storm in Montana.
8/30/2017 (Permalink)
If you have water damage from a storm or wind call SERVPRO to help aid in restoring your home.
So, you’ve just checked the weather forecast and there’s a warning out for a severe thunderstorm. Before it hits, take that period of calm to ensure all loose objects outside are secured or moved inside during the storm. Move any cars undercover – or, at the very least, away from any trees – and check all your gutters, pipes and drains are clear of any possible blockages.
It’s also a good idea to always have an emergency kit ready to go containing a torch, first-aid supplies, battery-powered radio and any essentials should you find yourself without power or water. Store your kit in an easy-to-remember and easy-to-reach place.
Of course, one of the best things you can do for peace of mind during any extreme weather event is to take out insurance.
During
Stay indoors (preferably in your house’s strongest room – perhaps your basement, hallway or wardrobe) until the storm has passed, and keep away from any windows. Turn off all power points and unplug all electrical devices.
If you’re unfortunate enough to be outside during a storm, avoid trees and find the nearest shelter. Stay away from drains, gutters and waterways – they may look clear at the moment, but floodwaters can rise with surprising speed.
Should the storm hit while you’re in your car, do not attempt to drive through floodwater. If possible, move to a safe spot on higher ground and switch on your radio for updates.
After
When it’s safe to leave the house, conduct a quick examination of your property and look out for any safety hazards or damage – whether it’s a hole in the roof, a fallen tree or power lines. If damage has occurred call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls to help you. SERVPRO is open 24/7 365 days a year and can start the repair process to get your home back in order. Call 406-458-6008.
After you’ve ensured your own property is safe, visit your neighbors (particularly those who live alone) and check that they – and their home – are also safe.
Spring Floods are coming: 4 ways they can get you
2/15/2017 (Permalink)
Spring flooding is beginning to happen in Helena, Mt in March 2014. Rivers are becoming extremely high and runoff is dangerous.
Spring is nearing in Montana, although we’ll probably get a bunch more snow before summer rolls around (don’t worry, we’re used to it…), that’s not about to put a damper on the wonderful weather we’ve been having. What might put a damper on it, however, are the spring floods that can be prevalent this time of the year.
According to FEMA, there are four main causes for spring flooding. While some of these causes may be more relevant to you in your area than others, you should still be aware of them all, because spring flooding can affect everyone.
Spring Thaw
If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, this is a big one to look out for. When the weather warms up, snow can melt quickly, resulting in a river of runoff. According to FEMA, just one foot of compacted snow contains a gallon of water. Having all that snow melt quickly could quite literally open the floodgates and wash your home – inside and out. But it’s not just the melting snow that can get to you. Runoff joins up with rivers and streams quickly, which can then force them over their banks, causing excessive flooding.
Spring Rains
Over-saturated ground won't absorb any more water.
Downpours that last just a few hours or prolonged precipitation that can last for days are ingredients to the recipe for floods. Spring is known for its showers and wet weather, which brings renewal to the earth. While that’s just swell, it’s also a recipe for flooding. Once the ground receives too much rain, it becomes saturated and won’t take in any more. So what happens to the water it won’t let it? It will start piling up on top, spilling down hills and into anything that stands in its way.
Heavy rain is also dangerous in areas that were recently affected by fires. Forest fires burn the ground, making it more than difficult for water to seep in. Instead of going into the earth, it runs down those parched hills, flooding anything in its path.
Flash Flooding
Heavy rain form multiple storms or one massive thunderstorm can be too much for the ground to absorb fast enough. When this happens, you’ve got a flash flood. FEMA describes this as “rapid flooding of low-lying areas in less than six hours.” Drought-stricken areas can be a major contributor to flash floods as well, since the dry ground won’t absorb the rain. Flash floods are especially frightening due to the speed in which the waters rise. When a flash flood comes, your time for preparing are past.
Levees and Dams
The United States has thousands of miles of levees and dams, all of which are there to help protect us from flooding. However, these can weaken and erode – or even flood over and fail – during times of intense rain. One example of severe flooding from a dam is the Teton Dam Flood, in Idaho in 1976. This flood was catastrophic and caused massive amounts of damage to the communities it rushed through.
These are some of the main causes of flooding, but don’t be surprised if the waters rise in some other way. For even more ways you could be affected by floods, visit floodsmart.gov. They have a long list of flood causes, although many of them are very area specific.
So, now that you know some major flood threats, how will you prepare for them? Research the various flood threats within your area and prepare accordingly. For starters, we recommend investing in an emergency kit that’s easy to grab and take with you should you need to evacuate. After all, if the flooding gets bad enough, you could be without a home for quite some time. You’ll be grateful you have those resources to fall back on.
If you do end up affected by spring flooding call SERVPRO at 406-952-1001 for the Great Falls, Mt area and 406-458-6008 for the Helena, Mt area.
How to help prevent flooding to your home in Helena or Great Falls due to a storm.
7/7/2016 (Permalink)
Flooding in Helena, Mt.
According to the National Flood Insurance program flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States causing $2.7 billion in losses between 2001 and 2010. Flooding is not covered by most homeowner’s insurance policies so it may be necessary to buy a separate flood policy for your home.
Here are a couple of tips to keep water from entering your home during a heavy rain event:
1. Fix foundation leaks that may allow water to enter your home.
2. Make sure your roof is secure and protected.
3. Clear gutters and drains
If water ever floods your home, getting someone on site as soon as possible is key to keeping the amount of damage to a minimum. SERVPRO of Birmingham is ready to respond at any time and also provides a free assessment and estimate.
When Storms or Floods hit the Helena and Great Falls area, SERVPRO is ready!
4/28/2016 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Helena, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (406) 458-6008
24/7 Emergency Service