Recent Storm Damage Posts
5 Instant Steps to Take When Handling Winter Storm Damage
1/18/2022 (Permalink)
Many inches of snow, up to a foot or more from time to time, fall in a Minnesota blizzard. A fast response lessens the damage and reduces cost.
Cold weather poses a difficult challenge to all property owners. Ice, snow, and sleet can cause havoc on your roof, siding, driveways, and walkways. Quick action to deal with winter storm damage is essential in protecting your precious property. If you're questioning how to handle storm damage, read the tips below for some guidance.
Types of Winter Storm Damage
Flooding - Cold snaps and freezes and damage pipes and cause them to burst. This expulsion of water can lead to severe water damage and flooded areas that will need immediate emergency water mitigation.
Roof Leaks - From ice dams to heavy snow and ice breaking through your shingles, winter storms can be harsh on your roof. With holes in your shingles or blockages in your pipes, it leaves your property exposed to moisture damage.
Fires - Whether your tree ignites or your fireplace is left unattended and gets out of hand, fires can often happen during a winter storm.
Tips For When a Winter Storm Strikes
- Remain calm. In times of emergency, it's hard not have your blood pressure raise. It's important to make good decisions when your property is under duress so that it can be repaired and taken care of properly.
- Take proper safety measures. If water damage has occurred, take the time to shut off the water. If a fire has gotten out of hand, use an extinguisher if possible or leave the premises immediately.
- Document Any Losses. Be sure to take notes and photos of anything that has been affected by winter storm damage. This list will be exceptionally useful in making insurance claims, smoothing out the process in the future.
- Contact Your Insurance Company - Call your agent to get the process of filing a claim started. Leave everything in place, except for what must be moved for safety reasons until the adjuster comes to document what happened.
- Make A Plan Now. Knowing what to do in a water storm damage emergency is essential for swiftly and smoothly restoring your property. By creating a plan you will be able to make smart and efficient decisions when storm damage occurs.
Disaster Recovery Team: Here When You Need Us
12/16/2021 (Permalink)
Our storm team does it all; everything from securing open areas from the elements to mitigating the water and wind damage from a storm.
Last Friday and Saturday alone, at least 39 tornadoes touched down in more than six states , as a powerful storm system moved across the central and southern United states. The National Weather Service estimates that at least 88 people have died, dozens have been injured, and caused billions in damage. The tornadoes were tracked in Kentucky, Missouri, Illinois, and Tennessee.
For SERVPRO, No Job is Too Large
Here at SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen, we are a part of SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team. Our elite large-loss specialists have been pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the U.S to handle any size disaster.
What types of major storms are we involved in?
- California Wildfires
- Hurricanes
- Massive Flooding
- Polar Vortexes
With our more than 1,800 franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. The benefit of having interconnected franchises through a network of strategically positioned storm teams means that we can access areas of extreme destruction as a team. With each franchise having the opportunity to combine together into a "Storm Team," we can work as an organization to mitigate damage in a large scale.
In times of extreme need, SERVPRO can organize local command centers for our Catastrophic Storm Response Teams. Our trained production professionals cut costs and aid local companies in restoration.
When you're caught in a national disaster such as a hurricane, tornado, flooding, extreme winds, or a snowstorm, we're the team you want! We're here to make it "Like it never even happened." Call 952-999-2435 today for any of your restoration needs!
Winter Storm Safety
12/14/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen offers comprehensive storm damage cleanup and restoration services in the Twin Cities and nearby communities.
Each year, hundreds of Americans are injured or killed by exposure to cold, vehicle accidents on wintry roads, and fires caused by the improper use of heaters. Read the following blog to learn how to stay safe during a winter weather storm!
Protect Your Family
- Talk with your family about what to do if a winter storm watch has been issued.
- Winterize your vehicle
- Check the status of your battery, antifreeze, wipers, and windshield washer fluid
- Check the integrity of the tread on your tires
- Pack an emergency vehicle kit
- Include a scraper, sand for traction, matches for a source of fire, warm clothing, etc.
- Keep the gas tank full
- Keep warm clothing and extra blankets for everyone in your household
Protect Your Home
- Protect your exposes pipes from freezing
- Have a professional examine your HVAC system
- Consider purchasing emergency heating equipment
- Consider installing a portable generator
- Bring your companion animals indoors
- Be aware of local area radio updates
Stay Indoors
- Drink fluids such as warm broth or juice
- Eat regularly and keep a well-stocked pantry
- Conserve fuel by lowering your thermostat
- Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for updated emergency information
Here to Protect You
Take immediate precautions if you hear winter storm warning or blizzard warning on the news. Winter weather is unpredictable. If you are in immediate need of help, please contact your local Red Cross or call 9-1-1.
If your home suffers winter storm damage such as roof damage from wind, roof collapse from heavy snow, gutter collapse from ice, or water damage from snowmelt, contact us at 952-999-2435. We're "Faster to Any Size Disaster!"
What is Minnesota's Winter Storm Outlook?
12/7/2021 (Permalink)
As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back normal.
According to the Farmers Almanac, they're predicting a cold and snowy winter for Minnesota. "Numb's the Word, Just Shovelin' Along" to be exact. January should start fairly mild in temperature, but will then trend towards colder conditions during the middle and latter part of the month. Apparently there will even be a blizzard at the end of January.
How to Prepare for Cold Temperatures
Prepare Your Home
According to the CDC, it is highly important to winterize your home to keep it safe and warm during the winter months.
- Insulate water lines that run outdoors or along exterior walls.
- Clean out your gutters and repair roof leaks
- Install weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows.
Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Emergencies
Install a CO detector to alert you if you are in the presence of the deadly, odorless, colorless gas.
- Inspect any gas lines that you may have in your home. Often times your furnace or stove will be the culprit.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Get your vehicle ready for snowy, blowy roads and chilly travelling conditions.
- Keep your gas tank full to avoid ice buildup within the tank and fuel lines.
- Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer
Have You Found Yourself Unprepared?
Did you fail to insulate your pipes properly?
Has the cold weather burst one of your pipes?
Is water streaming everywhere?
Call SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen! We're here to help you 24/7 365 days a year. Winter storms and cold temperatures can be dangerous. Stay safe and healthy by planning ahead!
Examining Your Roof after Storm Damage
11/29/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen offers comprehensive storm damage cleanup and restoration services in the Twin Cities.
When a significant storm blows through your property, it's probably a great idea to inspect your property for any potential storm damage. Storm damage can stem from high winds, flying debris, hail, and heavy rainfall. Your main line of defense for your property is the roof and in these instances, it surely can take a beating. Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to things like dings and holes in your gutters, as well as tears in your window screens. These examples are telltale signs of hail damage.
After inspection, you may see missing tiles or other signs of roof damage from the ground. However, most leaks don't represent a need for a whole roof replacement. Usually the leak, coming from the roof damage, is coming from something requiring minor repair. Find the source of the leak, stop the leaking, and clean up the water damage that has occurred.
Finding the Source of the Leak
Wind damage, hail damage, and debris that crashes into your roof can create holes that lets rain into your property. By examining the ceilings and corners of the walls from inside, you may be able to identify stains that indicate a leak source and discover areas that need roof repair. There may be a chance that you discover water stains that run down the wall. If found, grab a light source and head over to that area immediately. Try to find the source of the water stain. Some examples include:
- Vent Pipes
- Chimneys
- Fans and vents
- Window Dormers
- Unsecured nails and nail holes
Fixing the Water Damage
When you find hints of water damage or a leak in your roof, it's time to complete a roof repair! Begin by looking for materials that have been damaged by water. Check for discolorations, rotting wood, wet drywall, and soggy insulation. When you find potential microbial growths, be careful not to spread it during cleanup. Complete drying of water damage and repairing of roof leaks is critical to preventing mold growth and secondary damages.
For any of your storm damage, mold damage, or roof leak repair needs, contact us at 952-999-2435! We have knowledgeable technicians to clean up water damage and a growing reconstruction division to fix any structural damages.
Be Prepared for a Power Outage
11/23/2021 (Permalink)
When electrical power goes out unexpectedly, it is considered a power outage. In today's society, it's hard to imagine functioning without any electricity. The tips below will help you be ready if you happen to lose access to power.
A power outage can:
- Cause food spoilage and water contamination
- Force retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks and other service businesses to close
- Disrupt communication, the ability to cook, use water, and utilize transportation options
How to Protect Yourself During a Power Outage
- Limit the amount of time you open your freezers and refrigerators. By keeping the cold air trapped inside, you food will keep from spoiling.
- Do not use a gas stove to heat your home as this could lead to extensive fire damage.
- If it is safe to travel, go to an alternate location for heat and cooling.
- Fuel may become an issue - only use generators outdoors and away from windows if you absolutely need it.
Prepare for a power outage sooner rather than later. By taking inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity, you will be able to determine what is absolutely necessary in the time of a power outage. Ensure that you have flashlights with extra batteries, a thermometer in your refrigerator to monitor temperature, electrical equipment charged, and gas tanks full.
If you experience storm damage, call SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen at 952-999-2435. No matter what your situation, we are always "Here to help!"
Preparing for a Winter Storm
11/22/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen offers comprehensive storm damage cleanup and restoration services in the greater Twin Cities area.
What does a winter storm look like?
Winter storms create a higher risk for car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Minnesota is notorious for its frigid and snowy winter seasons. A winter winter storm has many faces and can last only a few hours or up to several days. A winter storm can cut off heat, power, and communication services and put older adults, children, and sick individuals at greater risk. Follow along the following tips to help protecting yourself from winter weather.
How do you protect yourself from winter weather?
As the old saying goes, "Proper preparation prevents poor performance."
Be highly aware of weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Be on the look out for emergency information and alerts and sign up for your local community's warning system.
Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Keep your tank closer to full than empty in the winter so that if you experience a breakdown, you're able to keep your car running for longer. Include jumper cables, sand in case you get stuck, an additional layer of clothing, water, and maybe a few snacks.
Make a plan. Use a guide such as this one on Ready.gov to tailor your emergency plan and supplies to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities.
Prepare your home to keep out the frigid temperatures with proper insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. To avoid a water damage event like a burst frozen pipe, ensure that your property's insulation will suffice for your location and temperatures.
In the event that you experience water damage for any reason such as a burst pipe, gutter blockage, or outside water sources, call SERVPRO of Minnetonka. We have the ability to quickly dispatch our 30 IICRC certified technicians and 15+ service vehicles to anywhere in the greater Twin Cities area. Call 952-473-4837 today!
The Life of the Storm Team
11/10/2021 (Permalink)
The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood.
Calling Storm Team Wilson!
From August 26th to September 4th, 2021 Hurricane Ida ravaged the state of Louisiana. It became the second-most damaging and intense hurricane to make landfall in Louisiana, right behind Hurricane Katrina in 2005. It caused roughly $65.25 billion in damages and is considered the fourth-costliest Atlantic Hurricane in the United States.
How do you even begin to combat all of that damage?
Have no fear, SERVPRO is here! One of the most amazing things about our network of franchises is that we are able to compile our skills and abilities together to create a super team. Franchises from all over the United States came together to send out equipment and technicians to begin remediating this vast amount of storm damage.
Two of our technicians, Tucker and Jordan, were down in Louisiana for multiple weeks estimating and completing mitigation work for a small portion of the millions of lives that were affected. Tucker and Jordan spent a countless hours working through unsettling situations to help bring people's lives back to some sense of normalcy.
From inches of snow to downed trees to severe flooding, our Storm Team foes it all! We are extremely proud to send crew members to join forces with other SERVPRO professionals across the nation when severe weather elsewhere brings devastation.
SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen offers comprehensive storm damage cleanup and restoration services locally and state-wide. If you're in need of services, call us today at 952-999-2435!
SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile (ERP)
1/11/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen is Faster to Any Size Disaster.
How can you be prepared for a disaster when you never know when it will strike? SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen has just the tool for you!
Making a Disaster Plan with SERVPRO
SERVPRO is constantly looking for methods to make facility management easier for our customers. With the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP), you won't need to come up with a time-consuming plan from scratch.
Although a sprinkler malfunction or tenant fire seems hypothetical at some points, it's important to have a plan in place for when these accidents do happen. That's where our ERP's come in to save the day!
How does an ERP work?
One of our technicians will come to your building and perform a walkthrough. During this walkthrough, you will create a reference document that will details all of the vitals of the property, including contact information.
How is an ERP used?
That is entirely up to you! You may use our ERP as a standalone document or as a supplemental plan to any existing scheme you might have in place. As we know, timeliness is extremely important when it comes to any water, fire, or weather-related disaster to your business. As unpredictable as a disaster can be, our ERP is one thing you can set up before disaster hits.
By setting up your ERP, you will have experience professionals right by your side. Contact SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen to establish an ERP for your property.
No matter how big or small, SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen will be ready to ensure that damage occurred to your business will seem "Like it never even happened."
Call 952-999-2435 today for any inquiries!
We Weather Any Storm
1/7/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen is Faster to Any Size Disaster.
As a 24/7 essential service business, we're here for you through any disaster.
Our capabilities range from water & fire to mold & storm damage.
SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen has been serving the entire region of Scott County for over two decades. We're locally owned and operated by Scott and his team of over 30 trained and certified technicians are here to help you.
What sets SERVPRO apart from others?
We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week because we know that disasters don't follow the classic 9-5 schedule.
- We have advanced technology - from infrared cameras to 3D Property Scanning you can be confident that the damage to your home will be repaired correctly.
- We are capable of traveling anywhere - our Disaster Recovery Teams are strategically positioned around the U.S should a disaster strike near you. Our expertly trained technicians will be there when you need them.
- We provide aid from start to finish - when you call SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen for services, we pick up and respond promptly. Our main service is restoration, but we're capable of aiding in insurance claims and working with you to ease the stress - we know you're already going through a lot.
SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen provides Residential and Commercial Cleaning services.
Our standard of clean cannot be matched by any other company. We've created a specialty cleaning program called Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned that can help ease your mind during these uncertain times of a pandemic.
Have Questions? Call Today (952) 999-2435
Tips to Survive Winter and Storms
1/5/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen technicians are highly trained to properly clean and restore your house so that it feels like home again.
Everyone has had the moment where they realize they are not prepared for the events at hand. Being unprepared for Winter is not only uncomfortable and miserable, but can be extremely dangerous. Listed below are a few hints on how to handle Winter and Storms.
Tips to Handle Winter & Storms
1. Frozen locks? Isopropyl alcohol, used in hand sanitizer, has the ability to lower the freezing point of water. Spray a little bit of this smelly substance on your lock and it should work to melt the ice within the lock in seconds.
2. Don't puff a cig or slam coffee before you go out shoveling. Stimulants such as coffee and cigarettes can add extra stress on the heart, raising blood pressure and your heart rate. These two stimulants, in addition to the exertion required to shovel, can lead to an increased chance of a heart attack.
3. Prepare your vehicle for cold weather. In case you get stranded, it is important to have supplies prepared to keep you warm. Matches, a candle, blankets, and some snacks will help aid in the process of avoiding disaster. Put extra clothing in your trunk as well as a flashlight, batteries, and a phone charger.
4. Are your shoes wet? After coming in from shoveling, your feet might be soaked. Stuff your shoes with newspaper in order to dry them faster so that you can have them for tomorrow.
5. Gas up. To keep the water in your gas tank from freezing it is recommended to keep your tank at least half full. This will help prevent you from becoming stranded and keep the fuel pump healthy.
6. Help! My car is stuck in the snow! Never cry for help again by keeping a bag of clay kitty litter in your car. Adding non-clumping cat litter to the base of your tires when you're stuck in deep snow or when you are slipping on ice will help your wheels gain traction.
7. Use your ceiling fans. As most of us know, heat rises. Flip your fan so that it pushes the hot air downwards, keeping you warm and your bill lower.
With these tips you'll be 7 steps ahead of the game this winter! Remember, if you come across any issues, SERVPRO of Chaska/Chanhassen is here to help 24/7. Call 952-999-2435 today!
Storm Damage Cleanup Chaska & Chanhassen
11/30/2020 (Permalink)
Why Call a Local Chaska and Chanhassen Storm Damage Restoration Service?
When a storm tears through your business or your house, it's a tragic event that can cost you everything from memories to livelihood to your very shelter. It's vital that you have a service that knows how to help you get back on your feet. Learn why you should look for local Chaska and Chanhassen experts in storm damage cleanup and restoration to help you get your life back again.
Local Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration
When you call a local storm damage restoration and cleanup service, you're getting not just expert work, but work from people who genuinely care. After all, a locally owned and operated company is part of your community. They're not just expert restoration technicians; they're your friends and neighbors and they have a vested interest in protecting the community.
Faster, More Personal Service
A local company also tends to offer faster, more personalized service than big conglomerates. At a service like SERVPRO, we can respond to any call, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and be there with lightning speed to assess the damage and get you back on your feet in no time at all. That's because we live and work right around the corner.
Don’t Skimp on Expertise
You're not sacrificing ability or technology by using your local service, either. SERVPRO has expert, certified technicians in water, fire, mold and storm damage control, and we're ready to help you get back on your feet.
From drying out and cleaning the area to full reconstruction, we're ready to help. Call us today at 952-999-2435 to get your life back.
Prepare Your Chaska Property To Withstand Winter Storm Woes
11/23/2020 (Permalink)
Winter Damage is Costly
The relentless advance of sleet, snow, and ice can mean disaster for poorly-prepared property owners in Chaska, Chanhassen or the surrounding areas. Insurance experts note over half of all yearly claims presented in areas prone to wintery weather relate to damage caused by freezing forms of precipitation and cold temperatures.
Winter Damage Has Specific Manifestations
The "big three" types of weather events causing property loss, hurricanes, tornadoes, and snowstorms, trace much of the damage to high winds. We caution customers that winter storms and general seasonal conditions add significant condition-based risk factors.
- Extend exposure of plumbing and fixtures to freezing temperatures causes burst pipes and subsequent water damage.
- Snow-clogged gutters and downspouts plus warm air seepage due to inadequate insulation and incomplete joint seals create ice dams that allow meltwater to enter the roofline.
- The cumulative weight of snow and ice leads to the weakening or collapse of roofing and other structural components, especially when the snowpack is dense and has high water content.
Winter Damage Can Fall Outside Coverage Parameters
Of concern to property owners digging out after a winter storm is whether your insurer covers the damage presented. Basic "named peril" policies limit claim coverage to specific causations, including windstorms, hail. fire, lightning, or explosions. A careful review of the base policy and additional coverage provided thru riders needs completion long before the winter winds blow. The examination of the insurance documents line by line reveals whether damage due to the weight of frozen precipitation or the migration of moisture into a building following repetitive melting and freezing cycles is underwritten.
If winter weather damages your property despite your best efforts to prepare, one call to SERVPRO of Chaska Chanhassen delivers a high-qualified team of disaster recovery specialists fast. Our technicians are prepared to secure your property after a snowstorm, and then mitigate and remediate the harm quickly and to the highest industry standards. Call us at 952-999-2435.
Winter Damage Prevention Strategies in Chaska/Chanhassen
11/23/2020 (Permalink)
Winter Damage Prevention Strategies
Even with the most comprehensive insurance coverage possible, being proactive with property maintenance and repairs is much preferable to proceeding to repairs and restoration. Home and business owners in the Chaska or Chanhassen area can use a range of strategies to minimize or avoid winter storm damage.
- Keep gutters clear year-round.
- Check or upgrade insulation in attic/upper levels.
- Seal cracks in exterior walls and weather-strip drafty windows and doors.
- Trim trees and other vegetation around the building.
- Wrap insulation around pipes on exterior walls and in basements and crawl spaces.
- Open closets and cabinets to facilitate the circulation of warm air during cold snaps.
- Allow water to drip from faucets to maintain flow.
- Monitor the depth of rooftop snow and make arrangements to remove excess.
Extreme & Changing Weather Patterns are Everywhere
Snow-related concerns are not always limited to the traditional cold-weather belt. Record breaking low temperatures and unexpected snowfall totals are in the news constantly. We recommend that property owners everywhere be aware of and prepare for the risks of unusual bouts of freezing and snowy weather.
A trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Chaska Chanhassen has the expertise needed to undo the damage done by winter storms. For questions or to schedule service call us at 951-999-2435. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
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