Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts

Preparing For A Storm

Name: SERVPRO of Joliet
Address: 2364 Essington Road, Suite 506, Joliet, IL, 60435
Telephone: (815) 436-5735

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

Know types of flood risks in your area. Visit FEMA's Flood Map Service Center https://msc.fema.gov/portal for information.
Sign up for your community's warning system (EAS) The Emergency Alert System.
If flash flooding is a risk in your location, monitor potential sign, such a heavy rain.
Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans,and flash flood response.
Gather supplies in case you have to leave immediately or if services are cut off including medications, pet needs, batteries or and other critical equipment.
Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. It typically takes up to 30 days to go into effect. Get Flood coverage under the(NFIP) the National Flood Insurance Program.
Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password protected digital copies.
Protect your property by moving valuables to higher levels, declutter drains and gutters, install check valves and consider a sump pump with a battery.

Remember that SERVPRO of Joliet, 815-436-5735 is available 24/7 to help you if the need should arise.

After the storm

7/15/2023 (Permalink)

This Spring and Summer has been quite a wet and stormy one and with that comes weather related injuries and fatalities. This is why it is important to educate both you and your family about post-storm safety.

Immediately after a storm where there was heavy rain, strong damaging winds, and lightening consider the following:

Do not let children play near storm drains. Every year children are sucked into storm drains and carried away.
Do not touch metal objects outside, there may be power lines down on the object which energizes the object. This could be a fence, guard rail, or baseball stop.
Do not touch or pick up any wires that you see either laying on the ground or hanging low. They may be energized or could become energized at any time.
Do not walk in flooded basements if your power is still connected. You could become electrocuted should water make contact with an electrical source.
If your home is out of electrical power, use extra caution when using candles for light.
Be careful using a gas powered generator which could cause Carbon Monoxide poisoning if not vented properly.

Please remember to keep you and your family safe and remember that SERVPRO of Joliet, Illinois is always available to help you with your restoration needs. 815-436-5735.

Storm Season

6/29/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Joliet truck in front of tornado damage

Tornadoes are violent and can completely destroy well-made structures, uproot trees and send objects through the air like deadly missiles and they can happen anywhere. Here are some tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Identify a save place in your home where family and pets will gather during a tornado: a basement, storm cellar or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows.
In a high rise building, if you don't have have enough time to go to the lowest floor, pick a hallway in the center of the building.
In a mobile home, choose a safe place in a nearby sturdy building. If your mobile home park has a designated shelter, make it your safe place. No mobile home is safe in a tornado.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE!!!!

Tornado Watch: means a tornado is possible.

Tornado Warning: means a tornado is already occurring or will occur soon. GO TO YOUR SAFE PLACE IMMEDIATELY.

Always remember to play it safe and we are always here, if you need us. SERVPRO of Joliet 815-436-5735.

Storm Damage Tips

3/15/2023 (Permalink)

Storms can occur with little warning in Illinois and have devastating effects on your home or business. If your property has been damaged by a sudden storm, follow these helpful tips to minimize damage and keep your family safe:

What To Do After Flooding

Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
Don't use television or other household appliances.
Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Call the restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Joliet if you have experienced storm damage. We will respond quickly and begin the process of expertly restoring your property. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 815-436-5735.

Storm Damage to Your Educational Facility

2/21/2023 (Permalink)

AT SERVPRO of Joliet we believe learning shouldn’t be paused or canceled, even in the face of disaster. Disasters at an educational facility are highly complex and require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a small school or a campus of higher education, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area so that normal operations can continue while we restore your facility.

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area. Your job is to provide valuable lessons and information to the students; ours is to make sure you have a safe place to do so.

Our experience in handling educational facilities cleanups has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following educational facilities:

K-12 Schools
Colleges & Universities
Dormitories
Event and Sporting Arenas
Libraries
Daycares / Pre-K Facilities

Addressing Ceiling Leaks After Storm Damage

1/21/2023 (Permalink)

Severe weather may bring on high winds and heavy rain – leading to a leaking roof from storms. All Joliet property owners must know what to do should water damage form due to a recent storm. The sooner you enlist the help of trained SERVPRO technicians to handle water damage remediation, the easier the clean-up and repair will be!

Storm damage in Joliet can happen at any time, but SERVPRO is the team to call when you require ceiling repairs from water damages. There are a few telltale signs to help determine whether you have water damage from a storm, including:

Excessive dripping
Stains on your interior walls or ceilings
Damp or soft spots on your roof
Materials that begin to sag
Notable signs of structural collapse

Should you have ceiling leaks and roof damage, SERVPRO offers emergency board-up and tarping services to keep your interior from suffering excess loss. We will also handle all debris removal, water extraction, and drying required during the restoration process.

You must know what to do and who you can call once you suffer from storm damage that impacts your home. SERVPRO of Joliet has a Green Fleet filled with equipment, and we can dispatch a crew to your home within hours of your call. Reach us 24/7!

Power Outage

12/14/2022 (Permalink)

Surprisingly, power outages are even getting worse in the USA. The annual average of powevery five years! The reason for this has to do with aging infrastructure, more frequent storms, and problems sustaining the electric grid as populations grow.

Despite how common power outages are, few people are prepared for them and even fewer people know what to do if the power goes out.

Steps to Take Immediately After the Power Goes Out

Step 1: Turn On Your Emergency Lights

Make sure your emergency lights are somewhere accessible in case you have to find them in the dark. Ideally, keep a flashlight in each room of your Joliet home.

In general, it is better to use battery-operated lights instead of candles because of the fire risk.

Step 2: See If Your Neighbors Have Power

If your neighbors still have electricity, then the problem is likely inside your home. Start by checking the main fuses or circuit breakers to see if they have blown.

Step 3: Check the Extent of the Problem

If your neighbors also don’t have electricity, you’ll want to see how wide-spread the problem is. You can do this by calling your power supplier. It might take a while to get through to them if a lot of people are trying to call.

You can also try calling friends who live nearby to see if they have power or not.

Step 4: Contact Family Members

During large power outages, stoplights and streetlights can go out too – making it unsafe to drive.

If your family members aren’t at home, get in contact with them. It might be best for them to remain at their current location until it is safer for them to come home.

Note that your family should have a contact plan in place.

Step 5: Unplug Appliances

When the power comes back on, it can cause a huge power spike which may damage electronics.

Hopefully all of your sensitive electronics are on surge protectors.

Even if they are, it is still smart to unplug all of your sensitive (expensive) electronics from the wall so they don’t get damaged when the power comes back on.

Step 6: See if Water is Safe to Drink

When the power goes out, water treatment centers might not work. You could still have clean-looking water coming from the tap, but it might not be safe to drink!

Call your local authorities to see if the water is safe to drink. Or, you can listen to your emergency radio to see if there is a “boil alert” in place.

**If you are unsure whether the water is safe to drink, always play it safe! Treat water before drinking it or use bottled water.

Protecting your home against flooding

11/30/2022 (Permalink)

Flash Flood Warning-- the alert that many of us dread because of the concerns that our homes will be affected by it. SERVPRO of Joliet understands that your home is more than a structure: it's your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings that help transform a house into a home. Here are some helpful suggestions on how to protect your property just in case disaster happens.

How to Protect Your Property:

Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box. Keep them in a place where it's least likely to be damaged by a flood.
Raise your furnace, water heater, and electric panel to higher floors if there are areas in your home that are capable of being flooded.
Install check valves in building sewer traps top prevent flood water from backing up into drains of your home.
Seal walls in basements with waterproofing elements to avoid leakage through cracks.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Joliet

8/7/2022 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms are common in the summer months. Our local team in Joliet responds to storm damage emergencies every year and offers these thunderstorm safety tips from the American Red Cross:

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms
Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with everyone in the building
Pick a safe place in for people to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be away from windows, skylights, and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail.
Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm
Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches
Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods
Get trained in first aid and learn how to respond to emergencies

Stormy Weather

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

June 22, 2015 is a date that the residents of Coal City, Illinois will never forget. An EF-3 tornado, with winds estimated at 160 miler per hour ripped through the town causing wide spread devastation to the community. SERVPRO of Joliet was called in to assist with the damages. We were given the opportunity to help families try to get their lives back to some kind of order considering what they had just been through. When a disaster hits, it is not always about the property damage but also about being compassionate and caring of each individual affected by it.

"During a difficult time, SERVPRO was respectful, helpful, professional, and made a horrible situation better." - Kristin C.

"At a difficult time in our lives, SERVPRO was caring, supportive, and attentive, thank you!" - Lance C.

It is comments like these that make us proud to be the company we are today: from taking care of all their personal belongings and content, to cleaning and rebuilding the damage done to their homes and properties.

Our highly trained professionals are available 24/7, 365 days a year, to handle any disaster from beginning to end and make it "Like it never even happened." If ever the need arises, call 815-436-5735.

Tornado Season!!

6/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Truck in front of tornado damaged house

Coal City Tornadoes from 2015

Identify a save place in your home where family and pets will gather during a tornado: a basement, storm cellar or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows.
In a high rise building, if you don't have have enough time to go to the lowest floor, pick a hallway in the center of the building.
In a mobile home, choose a safe place in a nearby sturdy building. If your mobile home park has a designated shelter, make it your safe place. No mobile home is safe in a tornado.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE!!!!

Tornado Watch: means a tornado is possible.

Tornado Warning: means a tornado is already occurring or will occur soon. GO TO YOUR SAFE PLACE IMMEDIATELY.

Always remember to play it safe and we are always here, if you need us. SERVPRO of Joliet 815-436-5735.

A Coordinated Response For A Large Disaster

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Not all disasters are created equal, and a catastrophic loss requires a large response. With a local presence in nearly 1700 communities, SERVPRO also has the ability to respond to large disasters. The disaster mitigation franchise has played a helpful role in many of the past decade's biggest storms, from Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans to the great floods in Houston and Texas. That's because the local franchise has access to corporate resources that can be deployed if necessary. It's the best of both worlds: rapid emergency response with arrival in four hours, and added expertise and equipment for large jobs.

The Benefits of Experience

Big problems such as flooding, tornadoes and rampant wildfires require knowledge and training. Each disaster has its unique set of problems to address and solve. That's what a successful recovery process calls for. A top remediation team offers the following solutions:

Trained technicians
Specialized equipment to address storm damage
A restoration process that limits expenses
Quick recovery
Knowledge to complete difficult tasks

A catastrophic loss in Romeoville, IL, has many aspects, from document damage to the prospect of computer systems being affected. Everything from water removal to soot and smoke damage may need to be addressed. Experience and training combine to meet these challenges.

The Advantages of Organization

Through it all, insurance adjusters and business owners can feel confident that detailed records are being kept to handle an insurance claim. This includes detailed estimates of loss, followed by an itemized list of damaged contents. Photo records of damages will be digitized and all paperwork will be available in hard copy. This information can be sent to all parties so a claim will be processed quickly.
It's important for business owners to know that a company is Here to Help during a catastrophic loss. Corporate resources mean no job is too big, and that recovery is right around the corner.

Driving In A Storm

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Since we are entering into spring showers and severe storm weather season, here is a refresher on driving in the rain!

Did you know nearly half (47%) of all weather-related car accidents — more than 700,000 a year — are due to rain? Read below for our tips on how to drive safely in the rain.

Here are 10 tips for driving in the rain:

Step 1. Exercise caution. Engine oil and grease build-up on roads and highways over time, and when combined with precipitation, you’ve got the equivalent of an automotive Slip ‘N Slide.

Step 2. Slow down. Wet pavement causes tires to lose traction and vehicles become more difficult to handle.

Step 3. Use headlights. Always use headlights in the rain – even if it’s just a sprinkle. Headlights help you see and be seen in wet weather.

Step 4. Keep your windshield wipers in tip-top shape. Summer can wreak havoc on your blades, so get them checked before fall’s showers arrive.

Step 5. Defog your windows. Precipitation can cause your windshield to quickly fog up, so use the front and rear defrosters to maximize visibility.

Step 6. Avoid pooling water. By splashing through puddles you can impair your vision and other drivers’. Additionally, standing water often shields potholes and debris from view and it can reduce the effectiveness of your vehicle’s brakes.

Step 7. If your car begins to hydroplane, do not brake or turn the wheel abruptly as this may cause your vehicle to go into a skid or spin. Take your foot off the gas and keep the wheel straight until your car reclaims traction.

Step 8. Increase your following distance. Slick roads, wet brakes and reduced visibility can lead to collisions. Give other vehicles plenty of room and brake early with reduced force.

Step 9. Don’t use cruise control. It can cause your car to accelerate when hydroplaning and reduces driver attentiveness.

Step 10. Drive in the tracks of the car in front of you. This allows the vehicle ahead to displace any standing water that’s on the road.

By employing these safe driving techniques you can keep yourself and your passengers safe during spring drizzles and downpours. Rainy roads can be dangerous, but if we all slow down and use extra caution, rainy days might actually be a little brighter.

Prevent Wind Damage From Spring Storms

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

Booming thunder and howling winds that rattle your home are characteristics of severe storms, which are becoming more prevalent as we turn the corner into spring. Strong wind, in particular, can cause damage to homes by breaking shingles and sending tree branches flying. Wind strength varies from storm to storm, ranging from calm wind with speeds below 1 mph to hurricane-force when the strength exceeds 73 mph. FEMA states that doors, roofs, windows, and garages are the most vulnerable areas of the home. If any of these four areas become damaged during a storm, the structure of your home may also be negatively impacted, which may require major repairs. To make sure that your home is protected from wind damage before a severe storm even appears in the forecast this spring, consider the following three tips:

Maintain Landscape and Trees

Strong winds can wreak havoc on the area surrounding your home, resulting in fallen trees and broken tree branches, which can prove to be dangerous to your home if the trees are located close to your home. Be sure not to over-water trees because doing so can weaken the root systems of trees, decreasing their ability to withstand the overwhelming force of strong winds. Finally, be mindful of outdoor objects and equipment, such as outdoor furniture, grills, or sports equipment, as these objects can be moved or manipulated by strong winds, which can risk damage to your home. During storms with strong wind, keep such items either stored in a safe structure, such as a shed, or anchored to the ground if they must remain outside.

Inspect the Roof

Damage to our roofs often goes unnoticed unless it creates a major problem because we cannot see it Therefore, it is important for roofs to be surveyed at least twice per year, during the summer and winter, in order to identify any damage and make sure that it is repaired. When surveying the roof, be on the lookout for loose or missing shingles and water damage in the attic. Hiring a roofing professional may be beneficial in this sense, as he or she may be able to spot hidden damage due to their experience, which could save your roof from devastation in the event of a storm occurring with strong wind. When it comes time to replace your roof shingles, consider choosing weather-resistant shingles that would be able to further protect your roof from wind damage.

Reinforce Windows and Doors

During storms with strong wind, different types of debris, such as tree branches or other outdoor objects, can pound against your home’s windows and doors. In combination with the power of strong wind gusts, these objects can inflict serious damage on vulnerable areas of your home, including doors and windows. To limit the extent of the damage to these areas, install storm shutters as a protective barrier between debris and the window or door. Storm shutters can either be purchased or makeshift storm shutters can be created with plywood. Garage doors are also a vulnerable area of the home during strong wind, so it may also be beneficial to purchase a garage door bracing kit in order to protect your garage door during severe wind and weather.

After The Storm

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Immediately after a storm where there was heavy rain, strong damaging winds, and lightening consider the following:

Do not let children play near storm drains. Every year children are sucked into storm drains and carried away.
Do not touch metal objects outside, there may be power lines down on the object which energizes the object. This could be a fence, guard rail, or baseball stop.
Do not touch or pick up any wires that you see either laying on the ground or hanging low. They may be energized or could become energized at any time.
Do not walk in flooded basements if your power is still connected. You could become electrocuted should water make contact with an electrical source.
If your home is out of electrical power, use extra caution when using candles for light.
Be careful using a gas powered generator which could cause Carbon Monoxide poisoning if not vented properly.

Please remember to keep you and your family safe and remember that SERVPRO of Joliet is always available to help you with your restoration needs. 815-436-5735.

Storm Damage Tips

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Damage Tips

Listen to the radio for advisories
Do not venture outside until it’s declared safe
Stay away from downed power lines, standing water, and metal objects near downed wires
Watch out for snakes and wild animals
If you smell gas, turn gas off at the meter
Avoid using candles or open flames indoors
Operate generators outside
Be careful when entering or leaving buildings with structural damage. It is best to avoid entering until the damage has been assessed
Once things have been properly assessed, make sure you have plenty of pictures of storm damage to your property
Contact SERVPRO of Joliet to come out for board up and get started on water mitigation.
SERVPRO of Joliet will work with you and your insurance to get your property back to preloss condition

SERVPRO of Joliet 815-436-5735

Tornado Season

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

Call the experts at 815-436-5735.

Here we are, folks! Once again, we have reached Tornado Season. Spring and early summer attract tornadoes due to the temperature constantly fluctuating between hot and cold. Tornado season peaks in the Southwest region during April and May while the Midwest region peaks during June and July. The US, however, records the highest number of tornadoes occurring during May, with a whopping average of 1,200 tornadoes per year.

Meteorologists and weather services can sometimes provide advanced notifications of potential threats, but tornadoes can still occur with little to no warning at all. With the threat of tornadoes being the highest this month and the next for our community, SERVPRO of Joliet wanted to give you a few tips and tricks to prepare.

Stay Weather Alert

Have a reliable source for severe weather. It is a great idea to keep your cell phones charged when you know a storm is coming. However, there is a chance of power loss, and there is no telling when power will return. Use your phone sparingly to conserve battery life. Keep a weather radio and batteries on hand to be able to receive potential warnings. Often, the threat is not over after the first storm blows through, and you must prepare for what might come next.

Know the Difference Between Watches and Warnings

A Tornado Watch means severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes are in the area. Watches should be considered just as dangerous as a warning. A Tornado Warning means there is a confirmed tornado in the area. It was either sighted or indicated on radar. You should ALWAYS take shelter when there is a tornado warning and remain there until the all-clear is received.

What To Do and Not To Do During a Storm

DO:

Keep away from windows, doors, and open spaces
Take shelter in the innermost part of your home such as a pantry, bathroom, or closet
Watch the weather forecast and be aware of your surroundings
Ensure your safe space has flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and a helmet to protect you from potential falling debris

DO NOT:

Run outside to watch the storm
Think that you have plenty of time to get into your safe space when you hear the tornado coming
Leave your home during a storm unless you live in a mobile home or trailer. Seek shelter in another home or building before the storm.

What Should You Do After a Storm?

Be mindful of your surroundings when leaving your safe space. Downed power lines, fallen trees, and gas leaks pose a dangerous threat to your safety.
Do not turn on anything electric until you are positive there isn't a gas leak. Clean any flammable liquids if possible. Leave the structure if you smell gas or chemical fumes.
Listen for shifting or unusual noises around you. These noises could indicate a structure is caving and may collapse. Watch your step and guide your family to a safe location.
Receive first aid when appropriate. If someone is severely injured, do not move them unless there is a danger of further injury.
Take pictures of the damage to your home and contents for insurance purposes. Documenting on-site will go a long way in speeding up the restoration process from the insurance side.

Storm Safety Tips

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Lightning Safety Tips:

Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent. Lightning can travel 5-10 miles away from the thunderstorm and strike the ground with blue sky overhead.
Move to a sturdy shelter or vehicle. Do not take shelter in a small shed, under isolated trees, or in a convertible-top vehicle. Stay away from tall objects such as trees or towers or poles.
If in your vehicle when lightning strikes – don’t touch a metal surface. You are safer in a vehicle than being outdoors.
Remember that utility lines or pipes can carry the electrical current underground or through a building. Avoid electrical appliances, and use telephones or computers only in an emergency.
If you feel your hair standing on end – get down into a baseball catcher’s position and plug your ears with your finger tips so if lightning does hit it will not blow your ear drums out. Do not lie flat!
30/30 rule – if the time between lighting and thunder is 30 seconds or less, go to a safe shelter. Stay there until 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder.

For more information on lightning safety go to www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov.

Flash Flood/Flood Safety Tips:

Nearly half of all fatalities in a flash flood involve a person driving a vehicle. Do not drive into a flooded area – Turn Around Don’t Drown! It takes only 2 feet of water to float away most cars. It’s amazing how powerful we feel when we get behind the wheel – don’t do it!
It takes only 6 inches of fast-moving water to sweep a person off their feet – don’t walk through a flooded area!
If you are camping in a river valley, move to higher ground if thunderstorms with heavy rains are in the area. Do not attempt to drive away.
Don’t operate electrical tools in flooded areas.
Most flash flood deaths occur in the middle of the night when it is more difficult to see rising water levels judge the depth of water covering road surfaces.

Steps to Take Immediately After Storm Damage!

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding, and powerful winds can cause roof damage plus downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready immediately after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roof materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health issues. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact a reputable property restoration company to help secure your property and make it safe for your family’s use. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is being restored to safe living conditions.

Photograph the Damage

If it is safe to move around your property, photograph the damage so that you have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjustor to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.

Preparing For Inclement Weather

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

Inclement weather is common here in Joliet, IL during the summer months, so as a smart business owner we know you’re already thinking about keeping your business investment safe ahead of an event like this. Lots of rainwater can be devastating to a commercial building, causing damage that can take a significant amount of time and expense to repair.

Today we here at SERVPRO of Joliet are sharing some preventive measures you can take that will reduce the amount of flood damage your business sustains, as well as the time and costs it can take to get your operations back to normal.

STORM DRAINS: The storm drains on your commercial property need to be maintained properly at all times, but most especially this time of year. Storm drains are in place to move excess water away from buildings and parking areas. Your local government is usually responsible for this, but keeping an eye on them around your property will allow you to be able to report a problem right away and to be ready for storm waters.
GUTTERS: Well-maintained gutter systems are going to divert excess water to proper drainage areas. If your gutters are clogged with dead leaves and debris, rainwater can overflow and saturate the ground around the foundations, causing damage there while backed-up water can spill into wall structures. A regular cleaning schedule for your gutters is a good idea, as well, since mold spores thrive in damp areas and can begin to grow rapidly if left alone in just 24-48 hours.
RESPONSE PLAN: Have a plan ready for your business employees before any inclement weather comes to your area. In the event of flooding, make sure you have a communication plan for everyone as to their safety and are able to let them know whether it’s safe to come into work or not. Your staff should not feel as though they should be driving through floodwaters or other potentially dangerous areas. Listening to weather updates will tell you what you need to know. Make sure you have an emergency kit on site for any emergencies that contains first aid materials, batteries, radios, flashlights, and snacks.

SERVPRO of Joliet is always standing ready to help if your business does sustain storm damage. We handle water damage, fire damage, and mold prevention, and we can get your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, too.

Storm Damage? SERVPRO of Joliet can Help.

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the Storm Damage, We Can Help

Storms occur with little warning and can be especially devastating, so you’ll need the company that you can trust to rise to the occasion. Regardless of the type of storm, SERVPRO of Joliet can handle any size disaster. During catastrophic storms and major events, our Disaster Recovery Team can respond quickly with additional resources.

Flooding caused by heavy rains
Tornadoes and wind damage
Wild fires

Here in Joliet we can get severe weather any day of the year, but spring and summer bring more opportunities for severe thunderstorms. SERVPRO of Joliet professionals are highly trained and prepared for all storm related damages. Give us a call at 815-436-5735 if your home or business has been affected by a storm.

Storm Damage? SERVPRO of Joliet Can Help

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the Storm Damage, We Can Help

Flooding caused by heavy rains
Tornadoes and wind damage
Wild fires

Storm, Storm Go Away: How SERVPRO Can Help When it Comes To Storm Damage

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Ice damage, hail damage, storm damage, flooding and wind damage all have the potential to cause far-reaching damage when they strike. However, not all is lost. Storm restoration can help salvage most of the items in a house. Homeowners count their losses too quick before engaging the services of storm restoration experts.

It is important to know the effects of harsh weather so that homeowners understand the need for storm remediation. Wind damage, for instance, can cause heavy roof damage. Roof damage is mainly from loose tiles or shingles. Wind damage after winter can also cause moisture from ice damming or formation of ice dams to sip through the roof. Homes with wooden roofs can experience wood swelling. This leads to further roof damage necessitating immediate repair.

There are various strategies that homeowners can take as measures of storm remediation. For instance, those who live in areas more prone to winter damage or wind damage can consider installing roofs with a higher slope. This goes a long way in reducing the cost of regular roof leak repairs. It also minimizes roof leaks.

Postponing roof repair especially from ice dams and ice damming only leads to more costs. A simple roof leak repair can turn into a roof replacement if not handled immediately. It is also crucial to conduct roof inspection, especially after a storm warning. This minimizes the costs to be incurred in roof repair after the storm damage happens. A roof inspection will identify all the damaged places, and the roof repair will be handled in time. All roof leaks are also sealed to ensure that the roof is able to withstand the coming weather damage.

Hurricane damage, flood water damage, hail damage, wind damage, ice damage, storm damage and river flooding experts are trained to handle such harsh weather conditions. The water restoration arrive at the scene of the damage immediately. Water restoration efforts must be done promptly so as to prevent further damage. These activities are done after an assessment of the extent of flooding, ground water levels, and the flood water. An assessment is what informs their actions to deal with the storm damage, ground water, and flooding.

Homeowners need to explain the type of damage so that the home restoration experts can come with the right tools and gear to carry out storm remediation. One such tool is a flood pump. These flood pumps are used to drain water after a flooding or water damage. A flood pump can also work automatically. It can be left in a room to drain the ground water. The pumps are able to handle the ground water even as it rises. Commercial flood pumps are also available to deal with massive flood water situations such as river flooding. In a home application, the flood pumps can be used with vacuums.

Another common issue is frozen pipes, especially after a winter damage. Frozen pipes prevent a free flow of water through the pipes. If the temperatures are still low, it may take time before the frozen pipes unfreeze. It is not advisable to apply heat to the frozen pipes. Handling of these frozen pipes should be left to the storm restoration or home restoration experts.

So give us a call today! We are faster to any disaster and ready to make things "Like it never even happened."

What about Lightning?

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

During a storm, a lot of things have the potential to cause some pretty serious damage.

Besides wind driven rain, a few other things can play a role.

Today, let’s talk lightning!

Some people think lightning never strikes the same place twice. However, lightning often strikes the same place twice, especially if it’s a tall, pointed object. Reportedly, the Empire State Building is struck nearly 25 times a year!

It is also believed that lightning only poses a threat when it is cloudy or raining. The truth is lightning often strikes more than three miles outside of a storm and has been known to travel as far as ten to fifteen miles before it even strikes the ground.

Many people are confused by the term “heat lightning” and think it only occurs as a result of a very hot summer day. The term “heat lightning” is used to describe lightning from a thunderstorm too far away to be heard.

Lightning can be scary and has the ability to do more than just make a loud noise. Keep SERVPRO of Joliet in mind the next time a storm comes your way!

Storm Damage Tips

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can occur with little warning in Joliet, IL and have devastating effects on your home or business. If your property has been damaged by a sudden storm, follow these helpful tips to minimize damage and keep your family safe:

What To Do After Flooding

Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
Don't use television or other household appliances.
Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Call the restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Joliet, IL if you have experienced storm damage. We will respond quickly and begin the process of expertly restoring your property. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 815-436-5735.

Flood watch or warning. What is the difference?

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm hits your home, SERVPRO of Joliet, IL has storm damage experience and expertise with the capabilities and professional personnel to quickly respond to your storm damage concerns.

Here is some descriptions of flood terminology to help you better prepare.

Flash Flood Watch:A Flash Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flash flooding. It does not mean that flash flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Flash Flood Warning:A Flash Flood Warning is issued when flash flooding is imminent or occurring.

Flood Watch:A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Flood Warning: A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

When Winter Weather Strikes, Be Prepared to Strike Back

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial. You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. SERVPRO of Joliet can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. Here are some helpful tips that better prepare your home and business during these harsh winter months. And remember to add our phone number to your contact list as your choice for emergency fire and water damage cleanup; 815-436-5735. PREPARE YOUR HOME:

Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pips for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it off.
If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.

PREPARE YOUR BUSINESS:

Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
Inspect walkways, and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potentials.
Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas.
Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
Ask SERVPRO of Joliet about starting a Disaster Recovery Plan for your business.

Preparing For A Storm

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Sometimes a storm can bring some serious water damage, even a flood. Are you prepared for a flood? Most people aren’t, so here are a few tips to be storm and flood ready!

Water (A 3+ day supply; one gallon per person per day.)
Food (3+ day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food.)
Flashlight
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
Extra batteries
First Aid Kit
Medications (7 – day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
Multi-purpose tool
Sanitation/personal hygiene items
Copies of personal documents
Cell phone with chargers
Family and emergency contact info
Extra Cash
Emergency blanket
Map(s) of the area
Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
Pet supplies
Tools/supplies for securing your home
Extra set of car keys and house keys
Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes
Rain gear
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Camera for photos of any damage

SERVPRO of Joliet Always Ready To Respond

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm or disaster strikes your home or business, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team is poised and "Ready for whatever happens." With a network of more than 1,900 franchises nationwide, the SERVPRO system strives to be faster to any size disaster. Strategically located throughout the United States, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team is expertly trained and readily equipped to handle the largest storms and highest flood waters. Providing experience, manpower, equipment, and other resources, the Disaster Recovery Team is always on call and available to assist SERVPRO of Joliet. SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team has responded to hundreds of disaster events. In the aftermath of a disaster, there is only one objective: to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Insurance Tips For Making a Storm Claim

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Joliet we work closely with many Insurance companies. One in particular is American Family Insurance. Here are some tips from them on making a storm damage claim.

Act Quickly. Filing a claim with your insurance company in a timely matter is very important. Most insurance policies limit your time to file a claim, so being quick is essential. You will want to repair the damage before it has a chance to get worse.

Review your policy. Every insurance policy and claim is different. If you know what your policy covers, you will be better prepared to plead your case.

Document everything. Keep a log of the storm and the damage. Do NOT start to clean up until you have documented as much of the damage as is safe and wait to handle the big messes until a claims adjuster has assessed the situation.

Mother nature likes to shake things up and if your home didn't weather a storm as well as you'd hoped it would, keep these tips in mind to help you along the way.

If you have experienced storm damage in your home or business call SERVPRO. We specialize in finding, assessing and repairing damage from storms!

Ways to Prevent Wind Damage Due to Spring Storms

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

Maintain Landscape and Trees

Inspect the Roof

Reinforce Windows and Doors

STORM DAMAGE RESTORATION

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

5 Steps of Flood Damage Restoration

Assessing the extent of the water in the home or business. Through the use of our advanced technology, our technicians will be able to determine if there is water in the structure that has seeped in to the point past what the naked eye is capable of seeing. If the water stems from a pipe break or supply line break, the flow will be stopped.
Remove the water. The faster the water is removed from the picture, the better. Moisture can lead to mold growth and can compromise the strength of the material it exposes itself to.
Begin the drying process! Our industrial-strength drying equipment is placed in a pre-planned manner so that the area is dried in the most efficient way possible. Fans are used to circulate the air and dehumidifiers are used to remove the water from the air.
Ensure the property is dried. Depending on the severity of the water damage, drying can take anywhere from 2-5+ days. Once our experts believe that the area is dry, they will check again using our various tools.
The cleanup team moves in for the kill. Any items that were removed from the property will be thoroughly cleaned. We will use environmentally friendly and safe chemicals that are capable of cleaning a wide variety of items from photos to books to furniture. In addition to cleaning items, our technicians will sanitize the area. This product will eliminate any nascent mildew or mold growths that commonly occur after water logging.

Our goal is to restore, not to replace. Once the cleanup process is complete, the property will be restored to its pre-disaster condition. Most often this process will take less than 24 hours as hour technicians are capable of arriving to any storm damage situation within an hour from your phone call.

What is a Storm Team?

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

When you call SERVPRO of Joliet, you are calling on the resources of a network of strategically positioned "storm teams" that will jump into action and come to your rescue if your home or business is damaged in a storm. Although each franchise is independently owned and operated, we work together closely to bring equipment, manpower and expertise wherever it is needed.

Recent mobilizations of the Catastrophic Storm Response Teams include:

2017 California wildfires
2017 Hurricane Irma
2017 Hurricane Harvey
2016 Hurricane Matthew
2015 Carolina floods
2014 Polar Vortex
2012 Sandy
2010 Nashville floods
2008 Ike
2007 Chicago floods
2007 Ohio floods
2007 California wildfires
2005 Katrina/Wilma/Rita

If your home or business is damaged by a storm, no matter how big or small, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Joliet want to make your property "Like it never even happened." We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 815-436-5735.

Driving in a Storm Tips

10/6/2020 (Permalink)