Do Drain Cleaners Cause Pipe Damage?

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

When you think of drain cleaners, what comes to mind?

Do Drain Cleaners Ruin Pipes?

Drain cleaners are one of the most popular chemical cleaning products in the world. They are sold at grocery stores, hardware stores, and even auto shops. You can find drain cleaners that are made specifically to clean drains and pipes, or you can buy stronger chemical cleaners like Drano, Liquid Wrench and other brands that claim they will clear your drainpipes.

Drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix for clearing clogs in your sink and toilet, but these toxic substances can cause serious damage to your plumbing system if not used properly.

What is more important than what type of chemicals are used when cleaning drains is how often you use them!

In this article we'll explore why drain cleaners cause pipe damage, how often homeowners use them improperly and what our plumbers recommend instead!

Yes, drain cleaners do cause plumbing problems.

The short answer to this question is “Yes.” Drain cleaners can cause a lot of damage to your pipes, but why? It’s because they are highly corrosive and often contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment.

Clogged drains are common in homes and businesses across the country, so it’s no surprise that people want a quick solution when they need to get their clogged drain unclogged as soon as possible. Unfortunately, clogging drains is only one problem with drain cleaners; there are other problems that you may not even know about unless you read up on these products before using them.

The main issue with drain cleaners is their extremely high pH levels (the scale used by scientists to measure how acidic or basic chemicals are). These acids can cause corrosion on metal pipes which leads to leaks and other problems down the road

There are two major classes of drain cleaners:

• Regular drain cleaners. These are the chemicals you'll find at your local hardware store. They're strong enough to unclog drains, but they can also cause damage if too much is used or if it's left in the drain for too long.
• Natural drain openers. These contain natural ingredients that break down clogs over time without damaging pipes like regular cleaners do.

Lemon juice and soda

While soda and lemon juice are a great way to tackle a clogged drain, they are not as effective as chemical drain cleaners. If you have a stubborn clog that won't budge with these household items, it's time to call in an expert for help.

Drain cleaners can be quite dangerous if used incorrectly or in large quantities, but less-toxic alternatives like soda and lemon juice are safe enough for everyday use. However, like any other chemical product, they must be used correctly to avoid causing damage to your pipes or septic tank.

The use of harsh chemicals can cause more clogs.

Chemicals that are used to clean drains are designed to break down organic materials and other debris, but they also have the potential to damage pipes and prevent them from working properly. A regular build-up of grease or food waste can be removed with a simple plunger, or by flushing out the pipes with water. However, when you use chemicals on your drain instead, it could damage the pipes and cause further problems for you later. In addition to this issue, many drain cleaners contain harmful ingredients that contribute towards environmental pollution such as mercury or phosphates; these may not dissolve quickly enough in your sink's basin but instead end up in lakes or rivers downstream from where you live.

Call the experts at SERVPRO of North Knoxville to clean your drains, not those harmful toxic chemicals.

When you think of drain cleaners, what comes to mind? A bottle of sulfuric acid that you can buy at the local hardware store? Or perhaps a container of sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) that says “DANGER!” on it in red letters?

These types of products are very dangerous and should be used with extreme caution. If you have any questions about whether they are safe for your pipes and drains, please call the experts at SERVPRO of North Knoxville. We can explain why calling them is better than using those harmful chemicals.

SERVPRO professionals understand that many homeowners do not know what kind of damage these chemicals can cause when used incorrectly or accidentally spilled down into your drains and pipes. Using these types of substances around water lines is very dangerous because they could cause severe burns if someone were to encounter them. The effects would be even worse if one were swallowed! Even if someone accidentally drops some on themselves – like their eyes – it can cause serious injury or even blindness since there's no way to see where those chemicals may have splashed onto other parts of their body before realizing what happened."

So, now you know the answer to the question, “Do drain cleaners cause pipe damage?” It should be no surprise to anyone that they do! Commercial cleaners are designed to eat through grease and soap scum – not only those in your pipes but also on surfaces around the house. If you have a clog in your line, it’s best to call SERVPRO of North Knoxville at (865) 947-9992 so we can take care of it properly. Our technicians will use an industrial strength solution that won’t harm your plumbing as well as offer 24/7 emergency service if necessary.

3 Things You Should Know About Black Water

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded home due to severe storm.

What To Do If You Find Black Water In Your Home

If you have experienced a plumbing backup or a flood in Hallbrook, TN, then it is possible your home has been damaged by black water. Because it is highly contaminated, this type of water should be treated a bit differently from others. The following information may be helpful if you find yourself in this situation.

1. What is Black Water?
Also known as category 3 water, this water carries large amounts of contaminants from sewage and human waste to mud and debris. Because of this, it can easily spread bacteria throughout your home. If there are mold spores present in the water, it can also result in a large infestation in the building.

2. Where Does It Come From?
This water can come from multiple sources. A common one is flooding, whether from a storm or rising levels in a nearby body of water. Plumbing and sewage problems resulting in flooding toilets or showers may also bring this type of water into your home. If category 1 or 2 water is not removed quickly, it may also become category 3 over time.

3. How Should You Remove It?
Because of the large amounts of contamination, this water should only be removed by a trained professional. Water and sewage cleanup can be done by a water damage remediation company. With their training and necessary equipment, these professionals are able to perform water removal quickly and safely. After this, any damaged areas of the house should be cleaned thoroughly. Affected items should be cleaned if possible or thrown away.
If your house has been damaged by black water, you should take steps to have it removed as soon as possible. It can bring mold, bacteria, and sewage into your home. Water removal and repairs should be done by professionals who have been trained to handle contaminated water. They will be able to return your home to its previous condition.

My Pipes Are Frozen: Is This Covered by Insurance?

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Always take action to prevent frozen pipes.

When winter weather strikes Heiskell, TN, one of every homeowner’s biggest fears is frozen pipes. Dealing with the water damage cleanup after a pipe burst is bad enough, but then there is also the headache of navigating the insurance claim process.

My Pipes Are Frozen: What Should I Do?

Although frozen pipes are an all-too-common occurrence in the winter months, many homeowners aren’t aware that their pipes have frozen until the pipes burst. If you notice that your pipes have frozen, you may be able to reduce the pressure and prevent a burst.

If your pipes are frozen but intact: Turn on the faucet(s) that is served by the frozen pipe. Using a hairdryer, heat the pipe, starting at the faucet and moving along the pipe toward the frozen section.

If your pipes have burst: First, locate the water cut-off valve for your house and shut off the incoming water to the house to prevent additional damage. Then, contact a water remediation company. These professionals have the equipment and experience to clean up the water quickly and completely.

Will Insurance Cover the Damage?

Once your initial cleanup is underway, it’s time to start on your insurance claim. Homeowners' insurance typically covers water damage if the cause of the damage is accidental and sudden. A pipe burst usually qualifies; however, you may not be covered if you exacerbated the situation, such as by failing to adequately heat the home or by not turning the water off to an unoccupied house. Most homeowners insurance policies will cover necessary home repairs caused by water damage. If you must cut into a wall to access the pipe, the cost of cutting into and then repairing the wall will usually be covered. Most policies do not, however, cover the cost of repairing the pipe itself.
When freezing temperatures are in the forecast, always take action to prevent frozen pipes, if possible. Have your homeowner's information nearby just in case you need to file an insurance claim.

The Importance of Cleaning Mold Quickly

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Water can lead to mold growth if not treated immediately.

Why Schedule Mold Cleanup?

Spot mold on your walls or carpet, and your first instinct might be to leave your commercial property and call a mold remediation company. While the unsightly stains might seem bad enough, there are other, more important risks to keep in mind. Check out these three reasons why you should schedule a mold cleanup as soon as possible after a pipe burst.

1. It Can Spread

Wet, warm and humid conditions make mold thrive. Water from a broken pipe can cause mold to sprout if it's left standing longer than 24 hours. It does so by releasing microscopic spores into the air that can travel all over your property. If the problem is left unattended, it can spread to several rooms. Depending on the location of the damaged pipe, you might be encouraging it to grow every time you turn on a sink or flush a toilet.

2. It's Unhealthy

Breathing in mold can have negative health effects, especially among the young or elderly. Black mold in particular may even result in visits to a doctor. Mold remediation specialists will tackle an outbreak from several angles to make sure you, your employees and your clients remain safe.

3. It's Unsightly

Mold can create stains that set in your carpet and walls. Simply drying the water from a pipe burst is often not sufficient to get your business back in optimal condition. Experts might need to install new flooring or drywall to remove all traces of an infestation. Business owners in Mascot, TN  who allow mold to fester end up paying a significant amount of money repairing their property.

A pipe burst shouldn't be taken lightly. The mold that can result might be viral, unhealthy and aesthetically damaging. Schedule an emergency mold cleanup quickly after a disaster to make your commercial property safe.

3 Best Tips for Water Damage Cleanup

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage requires a professional.

Three Recommendations for Water Damage Repair

Excessive water in your home from a flood or broken pipe can damage valuable possessions and pose a health risk. If your house isn’t cleaned in a timely manner, mildew or mold will develop. In most cases, you’ll need to hire a professional restoration and dry cleaning service in Halls Crossroads, TN. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to protect your valuables.

1. Circulate Air

Mold and mildew thrive in high humidity environments. Water in your home from floods or broken pipes makes your residence more humid. Increase the circulation of cool air with the following items:

• Dehumidifiers
  
• Air conditioner
  
• Open windows
  
• Fans
  
  

As an added precaution, open the shades, curtains or blinds. This exposes your house to considerable sunlight, which can help reduce mildew and mold.

2. Air Dry Objects

Avoid placing wet objects outdoors in direct heat or sunlight. This will cause them to buckle, warp and split. Instead, let the items air dry indoors. Do you have possessions that must be carried in plastic bags or containers? If so, leave both open so your valuables can dry naturally.

3. Rinse Items

Floods create problems in addition to water damage. Flood waters also leave behind silt or mud. This debris can cake up or leave heavy deposits on objects such as metal items. Quickly rinse objects off with clean water. You may also use a fine hose spray. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth or soft brush. This helps prevent any scratching. Always wear rubber or plastic gloves for your protection.

A broken pipe or a flood in Halls Crossroads, TN, can bring unwanted water into your home, which can damage everything from clothing and walls to furniture and carpet. This requires an extensive cleanup. Of course, you’ll need dry cleaning, repair and restoration service for handling major recovery issues. However, until the professionals arrive, you can salvage your most precious possessions by following the tips above.

How Contaminated Water is Categorized

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in a home due to a leaky appliance.

The Different Categories of Water 

When it comes to flooding, not all water is the same. If your home experiences a flooding event, the source of the water makes a difference in how cleanup will be handled by a water damage mitigation specialist in Halls Crossroads, TN. Professionals use a rating system to identify how contaminated water is. Category 1 water is the cleanest while category 3 is the most contaminated and dangerous. Understanding this rating system is also important because it should determine how you deal with the flood water in your home while waiting for help.

Category 1

Category 1 water is the cleanest water. This is water that is basically drinkable at the source. This could be from a broken supply line, burst water pipe, or an overflowing bathtub. While category 1 water can still pose a serious threat if it comes in contact with electrical outlets or exposed wire, it doesn’t contain any substances that will harm you or your family.

Category 2

Category 2 water is also called grey water. This is slightly contaminated water. It contains some substances that may make you sick if you swallow it. It might come from a dishwasher or washing machine that malfunctions. Category 1 water can also develop into category 2 water if it sits for a couple of days. Even though the water starts clean, over time it can leach potentially toxic substances from the materials it comes in contact with, like carpeting and upholstery fabric. Standing water also supports bacterial growth that can make people sick.

Category 3

Category 3 water is also called black water. This is the most contaminated water. Raw sewage and floodwater from storm surge or river overflow are categorized as black water. It contains pathogens and toxic substances that can sicken or even kill people and animals. You should avoid all contact with category 3 water and call a water damage mitigation expert in Halls Crossroads, TN, to handle the cleanup.

How to Fix a Leaky Cartridge Faucet

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

A leaking faucet is a nuisance issue that can lead to significant costs if not repaired.

How to Repair a Faucet with a Leaky Cartridge

Cartridge faucets are prone to small leaks. Thankfully, this type of leaking faucet may be easy to fix, and you can try your luck by following the steps below.

1. Turn Off Water

Before finding the underlying cause of a dripping faucet, it is essential to turn off the water to the problem sink. Though it may seem like an obvious first step, many homeowners have accidentally made their problems much worse by forgetting to shut off the water. Most sinks have clearly labeled water shut-offs under the counter, but if not, follow the water lines to the hot and cold water pipes, and turn the handles to the off position.

2. Remove the Handle and Retaining Clip

As you look at the leaking faucet, the handle should have a screw visible, or there may be a cap that is hiding the screw. By removing the cap and screw, you should be able to expose the cartridge housing. There may also be a retaining clip that is keeping the cartridge in place; you can remove this as well and lift the cartridge out of its housing.

3. Locate the O-Rings and Replace

There will be a rubber O-ring near the top of the cartridge; some models may have multiple rings. Inspect the O-ring and replace if it appears to be worn. Simply remove the O-ring by pulling it up and away from the cartridge body. Replace the O-ring by stretching it over and rolling it into its proper position.

4. Reassemble and Test the Faucet

Reassemble the faucet by placing the cartridge back into its housing and securing the handle and cover. Turn the water supply back on to see if you have a fixed leak. If the leak persists, you may want to call a professional in Fountain City, TN, to assess the issue further.

A leaking faucet is a nuisance issue that can lead to significant costs if not repaired. Fortunately, most leaks for a cartridge type faucet can be resolved by replacing the O-rings. However, if the quick fix does not solve the problem, then it may be time to call for assistance.

Preventing Water Damage: The Practices and Tools Necessary to Protect Your Business

9/26/2021 (Permalink)

It is essential to maintain these elements to ensure prolonged protection for your business.

A broken pipe can cause massive flooding in a business, and the cost of water repair can be significant; however, depending on who is deemed responsible, your insurance company may not cover the damage. Therefore, you may want to take every preventative measure possible to protect your business and its operation.

1. Routine Maintenance

Most plumbing issues can be prevented with routine maintenance. With regular sewer cleaning and annual inspections of drains and other collection systems, most minor problems can be found and fixed for little cost.

2. Installation of Pumps and Valves

Beyond routine maintenance, you can install sump pumps and backflow valves to prevent and control potential sewer backup and flooding events. However, these items also should be inspected regularly to ensure proper functionality, and sump pumps should have battery backups in case of power outages.

3. Location of Generator Fuel Tanks

In the event of a broken pipe or a flood, generator fuel tanks may cause water contamination. For this reason, you may want to install generators in elevated areas to not only prevent possible water contamination but also to ensure a working generator. If generators are located in a building’s flood zones, the increasing water level may interfere with the generator’s mechanics.

4. Parking Lot and Sidewalk Grading

As exterior water lines can also burst, you may want to ensure that any concrete surface is graded away from your building’s interior. Incorrect grading can lead to the increased flooding risk, which can result in further interior damage.

While Knoxville, TN, has many restoration companies in the event of a broken pipe, it is better for a business to avoid interruption due to disaster; therefore, it may be in your best interest, as the owner, to install every possible preventative measure. However, it is also essential to maintain these elements to ensure prolonged protection for your business.

North Knoxville 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/6/2021 (Permalink)

24 hour emergency water damage service!

SERVPRO of North Knoxville is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 865-947-9992

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of North Knoxville has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of North Knoxville

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

What You Should Do if Pipe Bursts in Your Home

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

If a pipe bursts in your home, the first thing you should do is turn off your water supply. Try to contain the damage and stop the issue from escalating any further. If you think there is a risk of electrical shock, shut off your electricity. The next thing you should do is call a plumber. And finally, while waiting for help to arrive, try to remove as much excess water as possible. Standing water can cause further damage to flooring and drywall. Also, you should ensure the area is dry and free from any moisture. Moisture can cause bacterial growth. 

If this happens in your home, call SERVPRO of North Knoxville. We will help alleviate your worries and get you back to pre loss conditions. Financing options are available. 

Tips for Repairing a Leaky Faucet

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Replacing a leaking faucet is a job you can likely do on your own.

Of all the problems you could have in your home, a leaking faucet may seem pretty far down the list. At the very least, this can be an annoying issue, but if you don’t take care of it, the leak can turn into something worse and lead to flooding. Luckily, you can fix this situation without a lot of expertise.

Figure Out What Type of Faucet You Have

If you want to put an end to that maddening dripping faucet that keeps you up at night, first determine the style of faucet in your Knoxville, TN, home. Typically, you’ll find one of four kinds:

• Compression
• Ceramic disk
• Cartridge
• Ball
  
  

Take the Initial Steps

Regardless of your style of faucet, for a fixed leak, you should start by turning off the water supply to your sink. You should find a knob underneath your sink along the pipes. Turn the knob clockwise. Also, make sure you plug the drain.

Get a Replacement

When you’ve got a leaking faucet, you will most likely need to get new parts. This may require that you stop by your local hardware store to pick up an entirely new kit. Make sure you purchase a kit that has the correct type of faucet.

Remove the Old Parts

Carefully begin removing the current faucet piece by piece. You will need tools such as a screwdriver, wrench and pliers to do this. You can then try cleaning some of the seals in vinegar for a few hours, but usually, you will need to replace all the parts.

Install the New Kit

Following the instructions on the kit you have purchased, install the new unit. If you follow the steps carefully, you shouldn’t have much of a problem doing this. Once you’ve installed it, turn the water on slowly. If you notice any further leaks, turn the water off, and revisit the installation steps.

Replacing a leaking faucet is a job you can likely do on your own. Don’t put it off, though, or the leak could lead to water damage. You would then need to call a restoration specialist to help with the cleanup.

Why Do Pipes Burst in the Summer?

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in crawlspace due to burst pipe.

When you hear about pipes bursting it is assumed it’s because of freezing temperatures, well that is the case most of the time but pipes can be faulty in the summer months as well.  Yes, its highly unlikely extreme temperatures and increased usage can lead the pipes to burst.  SERVPRO of North Knoxville wants our customers to be able to have tips and knowledge to help prevent it from happening!

Extreme Temperatures

With summertime comes less rainfall and harsh heat which can make the land and soil extraordinarily dry.  This makes the soil looser and makes the pipes more susceptible to movement which can lead to breakage. The breakage is more likely to happen on the route of the pipes from the road to your home, rather than inside your home. While you can’t control the weather, you can decrease the amount of water usage during extreme temperatures to alleviate the pressure on your system.

Increased Consumption

Who wants a pipe burst to put a damper on their summer? No one, right?  We know that during the summer months you may have a sprinkler,  a garden,  hanging flowers;  all of which require water.  We are just as big of fans for summertime festivities as our customers and community members, with the increase of consumption can lead to failing pipes if your system hasn’t been updated or recently checked recently.  Another way to minimize the chance of a pipe bursting is to make sure that there isn’t any warping due to the cold weather in winter, to ensure your system can keep up with summer demands.

If any loss is to occur no matter the time of year, SERVPRO of North Knoxville is here to help and will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Pipe Bursts

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

What to do if a pipe bursts in your home

If a pipe bursts in your home, the first thing you should do is turn off your water supply. Try to contain the damage and stop the issue from escalating any further. If you think there is a risk of electrical shock, shut off your electricity. The next thing you should do is call a plumber. And finally, while waiting for help to arrive, try to remove as much excess water as possible. Standing water can cause further damage to flooring and drywall. Also, you should ensure the area is dry and free from any moisture. Moisture can cause bacterial growth. 

If this happens in your home, give SERVPRO of North Knoxville a call. We will help alleviate your worries and get you back to preloss conditions. Financing options are available. 

Tips to prevent water damage

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Plants around your home? Gutters full of leaves? Downspouts unattached? High water bills? These are all signs of potential water damage. 

• be careful where you plant trees and plants- some plants have invasive roots
• clean out roof gutters- debris causes build up of water with no place to go
• keep an eye on your water bill- extreme differences could show a leak
• us a drain snake instead of chemicals- chemicals can potentially eat through your pipes
• NEVER POUR GREASE DOWN YOUR SINK- even if the water is running, it can and will clog your drains

Damage from water is hard to prevent. With the knowledge discussed in this post, you may be able to lessen your chances of water damage or lessen the amount of damage caused by the water.

If you do suffer a water loss be sure to call SERVPRO of North Knoxville to mitigate the damage. Call us at 865.947.9992!

Things to look for to prevent water damage

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Here are a few tips to prevent water damage:

• check hoses and faucets on a regular basis- be sure hoses and faucets are not leaking
• check tubs and showers- be sure that showers are caulked and shower curtains are tight against the walls
• know how to shut off your water main- if a leak occurs be sure you are able to shut off the water
• install flooring pans under appliances to catch any water that could be leaking
• consider purchasing point of leak alarms- water alarms that work like fire alarms
• consider purchasing a water flow monitoring system- will let you know how much water you are using at any given time

These are just a few tips to water damage prevention. Always be aware. If you suffer a water loss, call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Knoxville at 865.947.9992!

Water Damage Do's and Don'ts

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Busted pipe? Leaking water tank? Here are some tips to do and not to do if you experience these issues.

Do:

• Remove as much water as possible by mopping
• Remove and set wet upholstery to dry
• Wipe any excess water from furniture and remove any table top items
• Place a foil barrier or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn on A/C to ensure drying in summer
• Remove any rugs and set them out to dry
• Place any luggage in sunlight to dry
• Gather any loose items on the floor

Don't:

• Leave any wet fabrics in place and try to place items where they will quickly dry
• Leave magazines, books, or any colored items on wet floor surfaces
• Use your vacuum to remove excess water
• Use any appliances while standing on wet floors
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet
• Go into rooms the ceiling is sagging from water damage

Be sure to contact SERVPRO of North Knoxville if you experience any water damage. Financing options are available. 

Pipe Bursts

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

What to do if a pipe bursts in your home

If a pipe bursts in your home, the first thing you should do is turn off your water supply. Try to contain the damage and stop the issue from escalating any further. If you think there is a risk of electrical shock, shut off your electricity. The next thing you should do is call a plumber. And finally, while waiting for help to arrive, try to remove as much excess water as possible. Standing water can cause further damage to flooring and drywall. Also, you should ensure the area is dry and free from any moisture. Moisture can cause bacterial growth. 

If this happens in your home, give SERVPRO of North Knoxville a call. We will help alleviate your worries and get you back to preloss conditions. Financing options are available. 

Home Emergency Tips for a Water Loss

9/21/2018 (Permalink)

No one plans on having a water emergency, but when you do, here on some helpful tips.

Do:

-Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and table top items.

-Remove and prop wet upholstery and pillow cushions for even drying.

-Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

-Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in the summer.

-Remove Oriental rugs or other colored rugs from wall-to-wall carpeting.

DO NOT:

-Use your household vacuum to remove water.

-Use TVs or other household appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

-Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

When you have a water emergency, call SERVPRO of North Knoxville. We are 24 hour emergency responders.

North Knoxville 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Knoxville is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 865-947-9992

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of North Knoxville has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of North Knoxville

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

Tips to Prevent Water Damage

12/26/2017 (Permalink)

Plants around your home? Gutters full of leaves? Downspouts unattached? High water bills? These are all signs of potential water damage. 

• be careful where you plant trees and plants- some plants have invasive roots
• clean out roof gutters- debris causes build up of water with no place to go
• keep an eye on your water bill- extreme differences could show a leak
• us a drain snake instead of chemicals- chemicals can potentially eat through your pipes
• NEVER POUR GREASE DOWN YOUR SINK- even if the water is running, it can and will clog your drains

Damage from water is hard to prevent. With the knowledge discussed in this post, you may be able to lessen your chances of water damage or lessen the amount of damage caused by the water. 

Water Damage Prevention Tips

12/26/2017 (Permalink)

Here are a few tips to prevent water damage:

• check hoses and faucets on a regular basis- be sure hoses and faucets are not leaking
• check tubs and showers- be sure that showers are caulked and shower curtains are tight against the walls
• know how to shut off your water main- if a leak occurs be sure you are able to shut off the water
• install flooring pans under appliances to catch any water that could be leaking
• consider purchasing point of leak alarms- water alarms that work like fire alarms
• consider purchasing a water flow monitoring system- will let you know how much water you are using at any given time

These are just a few tips to water damage prevention. ALways be aware. 

Water Damage Do's and Don'ts

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Busted pipe? Leaking water tank? Here are some tips to do and not to do if you experience these issues.

Do:

• Remove as much water as possible by mopping
• Remove and set wet upholstery to dry
• Wipe any excess water from furniture and remove any table top items
• Place a foil barrier or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn on A/C to ensure drying in summer
• Remove any rugs and set them out to dry
• Place any luggage in sunlight to dry
• Gather any loose items on the floor

Don't:

• Leave any wet fabrics in place and try to place items where they will quickly dry
• Leave magazines, books, or any colored items on wet floor surfaces
• Use your vacuum to remove excess water
• Use any appliances while standing on wet floors
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet
• Go into rooms the ceiling is sagging from water damage

Be sure to contact SERVPRO of North Knoxville if you experience any water damage. Financing options are available. 

A few helpful tips when you have water damage

9/20/2017 (Permalink)

Water can be one of the most destructive forces on earth. SERVPRO of North Knoxville can make your water damage "Like it never even happened". But here a few things you can do immediately following a water damage event in your home:

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and table top items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and pillow cushions for even drying
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air condition on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove valuable paintings and art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items, toys, etc. from floors

Now leave the rest to our expert professionals! We have the right equipment and expertise to complete the job and give you back your piece of mind.

Basement Flooding

5/3/2017 (Permalink)

With all of the rain that has come to Knoxville, many people have found their basements to be flooded with several inches of water. There are precautions to take in order to prevent flooding. If you discover that windows or vents are the reason for flooding, you’ll want to fix the sealants around them. Call a foundation repair specialist if you notice any cracks or damage to your foundation. If you notice your gutters are leaking, allowing large puddles to form around the home instead of being directed through the pipes below the home, excess water can make it’s way easily underneath your home and into your basement.