Frozen Pipes and Water Damage: Everything You Need to Know

Name: SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough
Address: 11 Turnpike Road Suite 7, Southborough, MA, 01772
Telephone: (508) 393-7898

2/14/2024 (Permalink)

Don’t hesitate to give our SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough a call today!

As temperatures drop during the winter months, the risk of frozen pipes in homes significantly increases. While frozen pipes might seem like a mere inconvenience, they can lead to severe water damage if not addressed promptly. Understanding the causes, signs, prevention, and necessary steps to take in the event of frozen pipes is crucial to safeguarding your home.

Causes of Frozen Pipes

Pipes tend to freeze when exposed to extremely low temperatures, especially in unheated or poorly insulated areas of the house such as attics, basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls.

When temperatures plummet below freezing, the water inside pipes can freeze and expand, causing pressure to build up and potentially lead to pipe bursts. Poorly insulated pipes are more susceptible to freezing. Lack of insulation in vulnerable areas leaves pipes exposed to harsh outdoor temperatures. Another common cause includes gaps or cracks in walls, foundations, or around pipes' entry points that can expose them to cold air. This increases the likelihood of freezing.

Signs of Frozen Pipes

Identifying frozen pipes early can prevent potential water damage. Look out for these signs:

Frost on Visible Pipes: Visible pipes in unheated areas might have frost on their exterior, indicating freezing.
No Water Flow: If faucets produce little to no water or only a trickle, it could indicate frozen pipes.
Unusual Odors: An odd smell could be due to a blockage in the pipes caused by freezing.

Prevention Tips

Taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes.

Properly insulate pipes in vulnerable areas using pipe sleeves, heat tape, or foam insulation.
Keep the thermostat at a consistent temperature, even during cold nights. Allow warm air to circulate pipes by opening cabinet doors.
Allowing faucets to drip can relieve pressure buildup in the pipes and prevent freezing.
Seal gaps or cracks in walls, windows, and foundations to prevent cold air from reaching pipes.

Dealing with Frozen Pipes

If you suspect frozen pipes, take immediate action:

Keep Faucets Open
Apply Heat
Call a Professional

In conclusion, preventing frozen pipes through insulation, adequate heating, and vigilance is key to avoiding potential water damage in your home during winter. Being proactive and knowing how to identify and address frozen pipes can save you from costly repairs and the hassle of dealing with water damage emergencies. Remember, in severe situations, seeking professional assistance is always advisable to ensure your home is protected. Don’t hesitate to give our SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough a call today!

Property Owners in Grafton Know There’s No Such Thing as a Small Water Disaster!

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

Call today 508-393-7898 SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough can help ensure the value of your property.

There is no such thing as a small disaster- especially when a small leak now could blossom into a big claim later. Unseen water can soak through walls, seep through carpet and pool on sub-floors, causing major problems over time. You need help fast.

SERVPRO^®of Shrewsbury/Westborough is Here to Help.

No matter the time of day or night, the professionals of SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough are available to begin emergency mitigation. Emergency mitigation means under normal circumstance, a SERVPRO franchise professional can be on-site within four hours to begin drying your building and restoring contents. The faster the water is removed, the less chance of serious damage to your facility.

Every SERVPRO professional is trained and understands how to manage the drying process. By utilizing state -of-the-art equipment and the latest technology, your structure will be quickly and thoroughly dried, which helps prevent secondary water damages. SERVPRO will remove moisture and any contaminants by disinfecting and deodorizing to safely clean and dry your building and contents.

Call today 508-393-7898 SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough can help ensure the value of your property.

It Just Makes Sense to Plan Ahead for Severe Spring Weather

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

One thing we can say about spring weather, it is unpredictable. It can swing between warm and cold temperatures, clear skies and storms- often within the same day. These quick and drastic weather changes can often lead to severe thunderstorms. Thunderstorms can bring lightning, flooding, and even the occasional tornado. We may not always know what spring weather has in store, but a little storm preparation can help to protect your home and commercial property from severe damage. Planning ahead just makes sense.

Hera are some tried-and-trues tips for being prepared for severe spring weather:

Being Forewarned Is Forearmed -Sign Up For Weather Text Alerts

The more information you have, the easier it is to plan and prepare. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sends text messages to keep you updated emergency situations. There is a FEMA app you can download to your phone.

Get to Know Your Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage is a great way to prepare for the unexpected. Review your policy. Not all home owner’s insurance covers flood damage, familiarize yourself with your coverage. Know that if more is needed, it can take up to 30 days to take effect.

Examine the Exterior of Your Property

Be on the lookout for the following things:

Check the foundation of your basement and along exterior walls to see if there are signs of new or past leaks.
Consider having your roof inspected - make sure it hasn’t sustained winter damage and is ready for spring storms.
Check the siding to see if it’s firmly in place
Look for tree branches extending over your driveway or property that could fall in a storm.
Downspouts need to be in place, gutters should be firmly attached and free of debris- check for sagging or leaking.
Loose patio furniture should be secured or pulled inside when a storm comes.

Check Your Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump, now is the time make sure it working properly and perform any needed maintenance. Clear all debris and ensure your back-up is in working order.

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough knows being ready for severe spring weather means planning ahead, performing regular maintenance on your property and being watchful after weather events but should the unexpected occur we’re Here to Help® 24/7.

Floods and storms don’t wait for normal business hours, and neither do we. You can depend on SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough 24 hours, seven days a week. Faster to Any Size Disaster and just a phone call away (508) 393-7898

For more information on recovering from water damage caused by weather-related disasters,

https://www.SERVPROshrewsburywestborough.com/storm-flooding-restoration

Flooded Basement Problems in Shrewsbury? We Can Help!

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Here To Help (508) 393-7898

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Shrewsbury basement could flood, including:

A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
Storm sewer backup
Sanitary sewer backup
Foundation drainage failure
Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
And many more

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Here To Help (508) 393-7898

Corridor 9/ 495 Area 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in the Wachusett Area

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough 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 – (508) 393-7898

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 Shrewsbury/Westborough 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 Shrewsbury/Westborough

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough 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.

Meet Our Team: https://www.SERVPROshrewsburywestborough.com/employee-photos

Who Will You Call When Water Damage Strikes Your Westborough Area Property? Not to Worry- We Have a Pro for That!

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back. Call us today 508-393-7898

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. Within four hours of receiving a loss notification, a SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough professional will be on-site to help ensure a water damage is handled by completing the following steps.

Inspection

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough professionals will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning the work.

Emergency Services

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough professionals will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal property and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

Monitoring

To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, a SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough professional will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated with you.

Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough professionals will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets, and clean affected areas of your property and contents. A final walk-through of the jobsite will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to its preloss condition.

Emergency Water Damage Tips

Shut-off the water source, if possible or contact a qualified professional to stop the water source.
Turn-off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive valuables to a dry place.
Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water.
Always avoid electrical shock hazards. Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water! This could cause electrical shock or damage to the device.
Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

When water damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back. For more information on recovering from water damage, call us today 508-393-7898

When Water Damage Strikes Your Westborough Property, Restoration Through Mitigation Is Less Expensive Than Replacing!

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back. Call us today (508) 393-7898

When water damage affects your Westborough property, you want it restored as soon as possible. Mitigation requires quick action. The faster SERVPRO^® of Shrewsbury/Westborough Professionals arrives on-site to perform water cleanup, the better the results – including lower claim costs.

Lower Recovery Costs – The SERVPRO^® System Helps Save Money

Emergency Mitigation Services help minimize additional property damages.
SERVPRO^® of Shrewsbury/Westborough Professionals use specialized test equipment to determine hidden water.
Restoration versus replacement of contents saves heirlooms and money too.
By using advanced drying techniques, SERVPRO^®of Worcester Professionals monitor and ensure your property is properly dried.

Components of Proper Water Damage Restoration

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key components of a proper water damage restoration are Fast Action and Thorough Drying. It’s important to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property.

When water damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back. Call us today (508) 393-7898

When it Comes to Water Damage, No Job is Too Big or Too Small.

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (508) 393-7898

From Leaks to Floods, SERVPRO® is Here to Help.

When Damage affects your home or business, you want it to be restored as soon as possible. The first 24 hours following a water incident are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. Within four hours of loss notification a SERVPRO® professional will be on site to help ensure a water damage is handled by completing the following steps.

Inspection

We will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning any work.

Emergency Services

We will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal belongings and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and prepare the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

Monitoring

To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, a SERVPRO professional will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated to you.

Restoration Services

We will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets and clean affected areas of your property and belongings. A final walk-through of the jobsite will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to preloss condition

About SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough 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.

Meet Our Crew: https://www.SERVPROshrewsburywestborough.com/employee-photos

Ask A SERVPRO Pro | How Do I Prepare My Property for Severe Spring Weather?”

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

Ask a SERVPRO PRO words on a black & green background

Here to Help® Our highly trained professionals are just a phone call away (508) 393-7898

In our April installment of “Ask a SERVPRO Pro” we speak with, Chuck Sargent, Business Development Representative & Senior Project Estimator at SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough. He is passionate about his work and holds multiple IICRC certifications including: Applied Microbial Remediation, Water Damage Restoration, and Odor Control.

The days are getting longer, temperatures are starting to climb, flowers are beginning to bloom. These are sure signs spring has sprung and with it comes spring weather. We asked Chuck, “How Do I Prepare My Property For Severe Spring Weather?” This is what he had to say:

Spring weather can be unpredictable, swinging between warm and cold temperatures, clear skies and storms- often within the same day. When warm moist air collides with cool, dry air thunderstorms can occur, making them a common spring offender. Thunderstorms can bring lightning, flooding, and tornadoes. Dealing with the unknown can be a daunting task but with a little storm preparation you can protect your home and commercial property from severe spring weather. Planning ahead makes sense.

Know Your Risks & Sign Up For Weather Text Alerts

The more information you have, the easier it is to plan and prepare. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sends text messages to keep you updated emergency situations. There is a FEMA app you can download to your phone. Additionally, your local weather channels, radio stations and power companies have similar services that let you know what’s happening in your region- being forewarned is forearmed

Get Familiar with Your Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage is a great way to prepare for the unexpected. Review your policy. Not all home owner’s insurance covers flood damage, familiarize yourself with your coverage. Know that if more is needed, it can take up to 30 days to take effect

Inspect Your Property

When you take care of your property it can take care of you.
Be on the lookout for the following things:

Check the foundation of your basement and along exterior walls to see if there are signs of new or past leaks. If you do find cracks or leaks, it would be wise to have them assessed and repaired by a professional specializing in foundation repairs and waterproofing. Taking care of them now can prevent further damage.
Consider having your roof inspected - make sure it hasn’t sustained winter damage and is ready for spring storms.
Check the siding to see if it’s firmly in place
Look for tree branches extending over your driveway or property that could fall in a storm.
Downspouts need to be in place, gutters should be firmly attached and free of debris- check for sagging or leaking.
Loose patio furniture should be secured or pulled inside when a storm comes.
Make sure unattached structures (gazeboes, sheds, etc.) should be bolted securely to their foundation.

Check Your Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump, now is the time make sure it working properly and perform any needed maintenance. Make sure to clear all debris so it doesn’t impede function and ensure your back-up is in working order.

Prepare For A Power Outage
Sometimes extreme spring storms can lead to power outages.
Here are some tips to prepare for when the lights go out the lights go out:

Fire up your generator and be sure it’s in good working order.
Plug all your electronics in to surge protectors just in case there’s a surge while power is being restored.
Charge your phones and any other electronic devices.
Fill the car and generator gas cans with fuel.

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough knows being ready for severe spring weather means planning ahead, performing regular maintenance on your property and being watchful after weather events but should the unexpected occur we’re Here to Help® 24/7.

Floods and storms don’t wait for normal business hours, and neither do we. You can depend on an immediate response from our highly trained technicians, who are available 24 hours, seven days a week. Faster to Any Size Disaster and just a phone call away (508) 393-7898

For more information on recovering from water damage caused by weather-related disasters,

https://www.SERVPROshrewsburywestborough.com/storm-flooding-restoration

About April’s Featured “ SERVPRO Pro”

Chuck Sargent, Business Development Representative | Senior Project Estimator
SERVPRO of Worcester & SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough

Chuck is a dedicated Business Development Representative | Senior Project Estimator at SERVPRO of Worcester | SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough.

He is passionate about his work and holds multiple IICRC certifications including: Applied Microbial Remediation, Water Damage Restoration, and Odor Control.

About SERVPRO^®of Shrewsbury/Westborough

The highly trained and certified professionals of SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough are experienced in cleaning and restoring a fire, mold or water-damaged building and its contents, including wall, ceiling and floor surfaces; furniture; fabric; fixtures and more. They also offer cleaning and restoration of special items, such as: HVAC duct systems; building exteriors; electronic equipment, including computers; and documents that have sustained water damage.

Additionally, SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough is highly trained and experienced in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination. Adhering to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry standards (CDC, RIA, IICRC) and using EPA approved cleaning products you can trust the professionals at SERVPRO® to deliver the highest standard of clean.

For more information on SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough please contact Chuck Sargent at (508) 393-7898

About SERVPRO^®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,800 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss situations. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Ask A SERVPRO Pro | How Do I Prepare for the Spring Thaw?

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Here to Help® Our highly trained professionals are just a phone call away (508) 393-7898

In this, our first installment of “Ask a SERVPRO Pro” we speak with SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough’s Manager of Business Development, Sean O’Neill. Sean is a seasoned cleanup and restoration professional, holding IICRC certifications in Applied Microbial Remediation and Water Damage Restoration.

We asked Sean, “How can we prepare for the spring thaw?” This is what he had to say:

It’ s been a long, cold winter. We are all looking forward to Spring, but with it comes its own set of challenges. With rising temperatures, melting snow, the potential for spring storms & flooding the possibility for water damage climbs. The best way to prevent water damage is to be prepared.

Spring is known for its unpredictable weather. The thawing of snow and ice in spring can lead to water damage. Follow these tips to protect your home or business:

Ensure drains take water away from your property and that they are not obstructed with debris.
Be sure to remove snow from around your property. This helps to prevent melting snow from draining into the building.
Consider having your roof inspected - make sure it hasn’t sustained winter damage and is ready for spring storms.
Check and maintain your gutters and downspouts. Backed up gutters and downspouts can overflow lead to water damage- make sure they are clear of debris and that water flows freely.
Check grading around home to ensure water is directed away.
Check your foundation for cracks. If you do find cracks, we would advise having them, assessed and repaired by professional specializing in foundation repairs and waterproofing.
Check that your sump pump is working. If your area is prone to floods, this can be your first line of defense against water damage caused by basement flooding.
Review your insurance. Not all home owner’s insurance covers flood damage, familiarize yourself with your coverage. Know that if more is needed, it can take up to 30 days to take effect.

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough knows being ready for spring means getting your property prepared for the spring thaw, but should the unexpected occur we’re Here to Help® 24/7.

Floods and storms don’t wait for normal business hours, and neither do we. You can depend on an immediate response from our highly trained technicians, who are available 24 hours, seven days a week. Faster to Any Size Disaster and just a phone call away (508) 393-7898

For more information on recovering from water damage caused by weather-related disasters,

https://www.SERVPROshrewsburywestborough.com/storm-flooding-restoration

About March’s Featured “ SERVPRO Pro”

Sean O’Neill, Manager of Business Development

SERVPRO of Worcester & SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough

Sean is the Business Development Manager for SERVPRO of Worcester and SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough. In addition to managing a team of Sales and Estimating professionals, Sean is responsible for the cultivation and maintenance of commercial and community relationships.

Sean is a business professional with over twelve years’ experience and has earned a 4-year Business degree from the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth. Well versed in the cleanup and restoration industry, Sean is IICRC certified in Applied Microbial Remediation and Water Damage Restoration.

About SERVPRO^®of Shrewsbury/Westborough

The highly trained and certified professionals of SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough are experienced in cleaning and restoring a fire, mold or water-damaged building and its contents, including wall, ceiling and floor surfaces; furniture; fabric; fixtures and more. They also offer cleaning and restoration of special items, such as: HVAC duct systems; building exteriors; electronic equipment, including computers; and documents that have sustained water damage.

Additionally, SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough is highly trained and experienced in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination. Adhering to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry standards (CDC, RIA, IICRC) and using EPA approved cleaning products you can trust the professionals at SERVPRO® to deliver the highest standard of clean.

For more information on SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough please contact Sean O’Neill at (508) 393-7898

About SERVPRO^®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,800 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss situations. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Sometimes April Showers Can Bring More Than May Flowers….Spring Weather Safety Tips

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

As we look towards spring, we’re reminded of the old proverb “April showers bring May flowers”. While it’s a poetic way of saying good things are on the way, it’s also a reminder that April can be a notoriously rainy month. In addition to those flower friendly showers, it can also be full of severe spring weather. This could include floods, heavy winds or even tornadoes.

Don’t leave disaster prep to chance. Check out these Spring Weather Safety Tips from ready.gov

Ready.gov Spring Weather Safety Tips

Flood insurance takes 30 days to take effect. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Purchase and review your plan now to protect your family for the future! www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness
Heavy rain to areas that have been experiencing drought can cause flash flooding. Learn how to prepare: www.ready.gov/plan
Tornadoes can be extremely dangerous. Safe places include storm shelters and basements — but if not available, an interior room without windows can also be protective. If you receive a tornado warning, take shelter immediately! www.ready.gov/tornadoes
What does being Ready look like? When it comes to tornadoes, it means knowing your ‘safe place’ and practicing going there well before severe weather arrives. www.ready.gov/tornadoes
Severe weather can knock out power. Be prepared by gathering supplies for each household member.
Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
Backup power can keep you connected during an emergency. Have alternative power sources on hand to power your devices in case of a power outage.
Anywhere it rains, it can flood. Learn your risk level for floods by entering your address at https://msc.fema.gov/portal/search

When you get more than April showers, SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough will be your May Flowers. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened,” and we’re just a phone call away, (508) 393-7898.

HOW CRITICAL ARE THE FIRST 24 HOURS?

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Fire or water losses, even smaller incidents, can result in costly claims over time. The longer smoke, soot, or moisture have to permeate contents and structural components, the more secondary damage one can expect to encounter.

SERVPRO® professionals have been performing fire and water cleanup and restoration services for nearly 50 years. Experience has shown that fast, appropriate action delivered within the first 24 hours can dramatically reduce secondary damage. Smoke and soot have less time to chemically interact and damage or destroy contents, and moisture is prevented from spreading and breaking down structural components or promoting the growth of mold and mildew.

Offering 24-hour emergency services, SERVPRO® professionals are committed to responding to fire and water claims during the most critical time period following a loss. Usually onsite in less than four hours, SERVPRO® arrives prepared to begin emergency mitigation services to help prevent secondary damage to the structure and contents.

SERVPRO® utilizes specific industry technology designed for the collection and reporting of claims information for the insurance industry. SERVPRO® professionals can quickly gather the necessary information an adjuster will need to authorize the cleanup and restoration process. The end result is a better, more informed decision-making process, which can speed up the cleanup and restoration of the policyholder's property.

The objective of critical response is to help return homeowners and business owners' properties back to its preloss condition while also controlling claims costs. Your local SERVPRO® franchise can provide the emergency service, mitigation, cleanup and restoration experience and industry-specific technology to help you accomplish these goals. When a policyholder experiences a fire or water loss, even those that fall under the deductible limit or are excluded under their policy, reach out to your local SERVPRO® team to help protect their property and contents now and in the future.

Five Basic Tips for Preventing Water Damage in Your Home

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

The best way to deal with water damage is to prevent it from happening at all. Follow these Five Basic Water Damage Prevention Tips to help keep your home safe, maintained and free from water damage.

Keep a Watchful Eye on Your Water Bill

Your water bill can tell you a lot about what’s going on in unseen areas of your home. If your usage jumps significantly from one month to the next without explanation it could mean trouble. Is there a leak in your Perhaps a crack in a pipe in your front yard, a link in your crawl space or crawlspace? Or, is it a pipe in your front yard? Don’t leave mystery leaks unattended!

Get to Know Your Water Main

Make sure to know the location of your water main and shut it off if you leave for an extended amount of time. If water can’t get in, chances are faucet drips and burst pipes can’t wreak havoc on your home when you’re away.

Perform Regular Maintenance Checks on Appliances

Examine and maintain your appliances regularly for leaks according to manufacturer’s directions.

Replace Worn Washing Machine Hoses

Old, brittle or leaky washing machine hoses are a common cause of water damage and loss for homeowners. Make sure to replace yours regularly to help to avoid expensive damage.

Act Quickly -Investigate Leaks Right Away & Fix Promptly

Ignoring moisture damage, postponing necessary repairs, can lead to mold, mildew, dry rot, or even structural damage. It’s also worth noting that while homeowner’s insurance may provide coverage for sudden or accidental damage, damage resulting from neglect or lack of maintenance is not often covered in a standard policy.

When Water Damage does happen the professionals at SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough have the training and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Being prepared and practicing regular maintenance is always your strongest defense against water damage but when the unexpected or unpreventable does happen we’re here to help®.

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. We will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.
Learn more about Learn more about our training and certifications.

Water Damage Restoration Technician
Applied Structural Drying Technician
Odor Control Technician
Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician

Water Damage or Flooding? Call Us Today 508-393-7898

Floods – Know the Facts & Be Prepared

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Floods are the most commonly occurring natural disaster in the United States. They occur when there is a temporary overflow of water into land that would normally be dry.

Floods Facts:

Result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges and overflows of dams and other water systems.
Develop slowly or quickly. Flash floods can come with no warning.
Cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings and create landslides.

What You Should Know About Flood Safety

Make a family emergency communication plan and include pets.
Have emergency supplies in place at home, at work, and in the car.
Check on your neighbors to make sure they’re okay.
Know what to do before, during, and after a flood.
Flood insurance takes 30 days to take effect, so purchase now to protect your family!
Listen to local officials by radio, TV or social media.
Evacuate when advised by authorities or if you are in a flood or flash flood prone area.
If you are on high ground above flooded areas, being prepared to stay where you are may be the best protection.
Never drive or walk through flooded streets; Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Do not go through flood waters.

Learn More About Flood Safety & Preparation

Learn what to do before, during & after a flood Visit: ready.gov/floods #FloodSafety
Heavy rain to areas that have been experiencing drought can cause flash flooding. Learn how to prepare: ready.gov/plan

When it comes to Water Damage- There’s No Such Thing as a Small Disaster.

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Team Working in warehouse, cleaning water damage

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough When You Need Help-Fast!

Restoration Newsline July 2020: CALL THE CLEANUP TEAM THAT IS FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASTER

There’s no such thing as a small disaster—especially when a small leak now could blossom into a big claim later. Unseen water can soak through walls, seep through carpet and pool on sub floors, causing major problems over time. You need help—fast. No matter what time of day or night, contact your local SERVPRO® franchise professionals to begin emergency mitigation. Emergency mitigation means under normal circumstances, a SERVPRO® franchise professional can be on-site within four hours to begin drying your building and restoring contents. The faster the water is removed, the less chance of serious damage to your facility. Every SERVPRO® franchise professional is trained and understands how to manage the drying process. By utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technology, your structure will be quickly and thoroughly dried, which helps prevent secondary water damages. SERVPRO® franchise professionals will remove moisture and any contaminants by disinfecting and deodorizing to safely clean and dry your building and contents. Help ensure the value of your property by calling your local SERVPRO® franchise professionals today. As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise to help ensure your business is taken care of as the economy begins to reopen.

It’s the Water You Don’t See That Can Cause the Most Problems!

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Tech and Customer in kitchen testing for water damage

SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough has the training and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call Us Today (508) 393-7898

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough professionals have the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss.

When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. Your SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough franchise professionals will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by your local SERVPRO® franchise professionals.

Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.

Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO® franchise professionals to monitor the drying process.

Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO® franchise professionals can calculate and create an environment most

conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.

Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.

Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor-causing particles to deodorize structures, garments, automobiles and other places where cleaning cannot reach.

The bottom line? Your SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough professionals have the training and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. We will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.
Learn more about Learn more about our training and certifications..

Water Damage Restoration Technician
Applied Structural Drying Technician
Odor Control Technician
Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician

Water Damage or Flooding? Call Us Today (508) 393-7898

Faster to your Westborough Water Damage Event

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/ Westborough provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Westborough

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/ Westborough provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/ Westborough arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 508-393-7898

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/ Westborough

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/ Westborough 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.

Click Here to meet our crew.

Learn More about our Water Damage Repair & Restoration Services

The SERVPRO® Do’s & Don’ts of Water Damage

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough leaders in Fire & Water Cleanup & Restoration.

Follow these Do’s & Don’ts to help reduce water damage and increase the chances of successful mediation until your SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/ Westborough professionals arrive

Water Damage Emergency Tips

Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution is safe from electrical shock.
Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
Place aluminum for wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other sensitive valuables to dry place.
Don’t enter affected areas if electrical outlets , switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
Don’t use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water; this could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
Don’t turn on ceilings fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

When water damage takes control of your life, we help take it back. SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/ Westborough make it “Like it never even happened,” and we’re just a phone call away, 508-393-7898.

Water Damage has Different Classes, What Class are You?

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is categorized as one of three levels by how polluted the water source was that caused the damage.

Category 1: Water from a clean water source, like a fresh water line for a dishwasher. This water will not cause illness or any Water damage is categorized as one of three levels by how polluted the water source was that caused the ill effects.

Category 2: Water that may cause illness through contact. It may have bacteria in it,

Category 3: Water that is highly contaminated. Contact can cause severe illness or death. Think sewage backup, an overflowing toilet, or storm waters.

Even though water may start out as Category 1, that doesn’t mean it will stay that way. Any contamination that the water touches, such as dirty carpeting or soil from the ground, can change water damage Category 2 or even Category 3. And since standing breeds bacteria, the longer the water is around, the worse the contamination of your property.

More contamination can mean that the restoration team will have to use more aggressive measures to clean your structure and property, and it might mean that soft furnishings, like your carpet and the carpet pad, may have to be discarded for your safety.

Water damage can be dangerous and expensive, so preventing water damage is an important part of home maintenance. But if you know the basics of what to do once it happens, you can prevent it from doing its worst.

Also if at any time your home or office has water damage call the professionals, we are only one call away. SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough is here to help (508)757-7885.

Count on US When Its Time to Tackle Water Damage in Your Home

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians are on Call to Remediate Water Damage on Your Property

With the sheer amount of situations involving water damage and natural disasters on the rise, water related cases soar throughout the area. It is becoming more and more meaningful for homeowners to locate a quality restoration company near them to reduce problems involved in water incidents.

While having water damage in your home is bad enough, the effects of water damage on your living environment should be more concerning. Several types of microorganisms spread throughout your home over time. Given the right conditions, these organisms pose a severe health concern, especially after making their way into your ventilation system, carpeting, and the indoor living environment.

Locating a company, like SERVPRO, in your area can give you access to air duct, carpet cleaning, and water damage services that make handling areas of vital importance easier. It is important to keep your living environment free of contaminants, ensuring that everyone in your family enjoys the best indoor environment quality possible.

Waterproofing is serious business, providing you with a way to keep the structure of your home intact while also maintaining a healthy living environment. SERVPRO can help you perform waterproofing services on your home and be there to provide you with emergency plumbing, water extraction, carpet cleaning, and a way to locate hidden moisture in your home.

SERVPRO makes every effort to provide 24-hour emergency services to all customers. With an array of advanced equipment, expertise, and other resources available, there is not much they cannot do. For those specialty items like electronics, we have contacts within the industry to provide you with restoration services that exceed your expectations.

We want to be the partner in home protection that you can count on to help during an emergency, someone you trust to protect the environment that you and your family call home. Our technicians care about your situation and provide you with the attention you deserve.

Contact SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough for additional information about available services or to schedule your home restoration, today. We will be ready for your call (508)757-7885

Time to Tackle Water Damage In Your Home?

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

We make sure to change the pad under your carpet as part of our protocol. This can prevent mold from setting in. Contact SERVPRO to see our method.

SERVPRO Technicians are on Call to Remediate Water Damage on Your Property

With the sheer amount of situations involving water damage and natural disasters on the rise, water related cases soar throughout the area. It is becoming more and more meaningful for homeowners to locate a quality restoration company near them to reduce problems involved in water incidents.

While having water damage in your home is bad enough, the effects of water damage on your living environment should be more concerning. Several types of microorganisms spread throughout your home over time. Given the right conditions, these organisms pose a severe health concern, especially after making their way into your ventilation system, carpeting, and the indoor living environment.

Locating a company, like SERVPRO, in your area can give you access to air duct, carpet cleaning, and water damage services that make handling areas of vital importance easier. It is important to keep your living environment free of contaminants, ensuring that everyone in your family enjoys the best indoor environment quality possible.

Waterproofing is serious business, providing you with a way to keep the structure of your home intact while also maintaining a healthy living environment. SERVPRO can help you perform waterproofing services on your home and be there to provide you with emergency plumbing, water extraction, carpet cleaning, and a way to locate hidden moisture in your home.

SERVPRO makes every effort to provide 24-hour emergency services to all customers. With an array of advanced equipment, expertise, and other resources available, there is not much they cannot do. For those specialty items like electronics, we have contacts within the industry to provide you with restoration services that exceed your expectations.

We want to be the partner in home protection that you can count on to help during an emergency, someone you trust to protect the environment that you and your family call home. Our technicians care about your situation and provide you with the attention you deserve.

Contact SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough for additional information about available services or to schedule your home restoration, today. We will be ready for your call (508)757-7885

The Grafton Area's Go-To for Water Damage!

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Take No Chances, Call in SERVPRO for Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration

Having a flood of any type occur on your property can leave behind overwhelming amounts of damage. Everything in your home that comes into contact with water requires special handling that you may need help with for cleanup.

Water removal services are key to restoring your Grafton area property after leaks or flooding; they often help eliminate a variety of secondary damages that develop over time. You might not understand it, but ignoring it is totally out of the question. Do yourself a favor, locate a qualified restoration company to help get things under control.

Small floods with less than 2-inches of water in any location of your home often have a pretty basic solution. SERVPRO technicians enter your home, assess the damages, and explain their services. If their tests show that the water does not contain contaminants of any kind, they bring in a variety of portable extraction equipment and remove water from your home safely. More or less a straight forward job that may or may not lead to repairs, painting, or general construction work in your home. Drying out all wetted materials is crucial to controlling any need for replacement.

Large area floods often bring dirt and muck along for the ride, leaving large amounts of unknown waste throughout your home. These types of flooding incidents may not allow such an easy, simple solution. SERVPRO technicians run into more contaminants, biohazards, and safety issues with this kind of flood. Safe and secure services with specifically trained personnel accomplish the task. However, once they have taken care of the contamination, the restoration continues just like any smaller job would.

The amount and type of water exposure you experience in your home have a severe impact on the results you receive. However, SERVPRO technicians have years of experience performing water removal services, obtain IICRC industry certifications, and have access to the equipment and resources necessary to handle any size job that occurs on your property.

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough can respond to your call for help, anytime, day or night. With 24-hour emergency services and expertly trained technicians, you could not receive a more qualified solution. (508)-757-7885. We stand ready, willing, and able to help!

Here to help Westborough's Homes and Businesses

4/19/2019 (Permalink)

Placing carpet blocks under furniture leg

Carpet blocks prevent water from wicking up furniture and staining carpets

When water leaks in a business or home it can quickly seep into, walls, baseboards, flooring and carpet. This ultimately can cause havoc to the home or business owner. SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough knows how troublesome water damages can be. Not only are water leaks disruptive, but they can possibly disrupt a business for days and even weeks. Having your business closed can also effect revenues which could lead to a business closing.

The first 24 hours after a water loss is the most critical time to prevent damage. Our professionally trained technicians will be at your site quickly to ensure your water damage is handled properly. Until help arrives, listed below are a few helpful safety and damage prevention tips.

Turn off circuit breakers near saturated areas
Do not use a vacuum cleaner to remove water
Place blocks of aluminum foil under furniture legs to prevent indents
Move all valuables to a dry area

About SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough 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.

Meet Our Crew:https://www.SERVPROshrewsburywestborough.com/employee-photos

Need Help? Call Us Today – We’re here for you. 508-393-7898

Water Removal for Your Flooded Basement in Grafton

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

Quick and Thorough Water Removal Services

Your basement can flood for various reasons, including faulty drainage, broken pipes, or another leak. Unless the water is extracted right away, the damage to your property is imminent, and the potential for mildew and mold growth is a genuine concern for you and your family in Grafton.

There is no time to shop around when your basement floods. You need professional water removal immediately to protect your Grafton home. SERVPRO can handle your emergency as safely, quickly, and efficiently as possible. We are always committed to a fast response time and extraction which is quick and thorough, plus complete drying and cleaning afterward so your basement is restored to its original condition.

SERVPRO is a full-service water damage restoration company. We treat each call with the urgency it deserves, and we begin the water removal process in a short amount of time. Our professionally trained crew takes specific steps to ensure your basement is taken care of properly.

Upon arrival to your home, we conduct an initial assessment of the area affected and shut down the power if necessary. A detailed inspection is performed to figure out how severe the water damage is, then we identify the entry point or source of the leak and categorize the water type. Once the scope of the water damage is determined, we go over our plans for remediation before we begin anything. We want you to feel comfortable with all that is going on.

Our equipment and submersible pumps are state-of-the-art and remove water quickly. Since moisture can stay hidden inside walls and under floors, we also inspect further for dampness and damage using moisture meters and other specialized equipment. Industrial-grade dehumidifiers and high-speed air movers make sure that your basement is fully dry and safe, and all the air-borne contaminants are eliminated.

Water in your basement can weaken your foundation, warping and cracking the walls it supports. Dampness from the water and humidity in your basement can cause mold growth, and you can experience electrical problems as well, making your basement very unsafe.

Allow SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough to take care of your water removal needs in your basement in the regions of Northborough, Shrewsbury, and Grafton. We return it to a safe place to work and play in a short amount of time when you call us at (508) 757-7885

Visit https://www.grafton-ma.gov/ for more information about the town of Grafton.

What Level Is Your Water Damage?

8/24/2018 (Permalink)