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 Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake, 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 952-403-1050 today for any of your restoration needs!
Winter Storm Safety
12/14/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake offers comprehensive storm damage cleanup and restoration services in the greater Twin Cities.
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 952-403-1050. 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 Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake! 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 Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake offers comprehensive storm damage cleanup and restoration services in the greater 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 952-403-1050! 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)
SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake professionals are available 24 hours/7 days a week and will respond quickly to a restoration emergency.
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 Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake at 952-403-1050. No matter what your situation, we are always "Here to help!"
Preparing for a Winter Storm
11/22/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake offers comprehensive storm damage cleanup and restoration services in the Twin Cities.
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 Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake. We have the ability to quickly dispatch our 30 IICRC certified technicians and 15+ service vehicles to anywhere in the greater Twin Cities area. 952-403-1050 today!
Living the Storm Team Dream
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 Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake offers comprehensive storm damage cleanup and restoration services locally and state-wide. If you're in need of services, call us today at 952-403-1050!
Shutt-ing down Storms
5/3/2021 (Permalink)
We can scale our resources to handle any size storm or disaster.
Most Common Types of Shutters
Protect Your Windows from Powerful, High Winds
When there's a storm on the radar, it's important to protect your home's windows from being damaged by strong winds and debris that is picked up. There are many ways to safeguard your windows, see the information below for some options.
Temporary Options:
Plywood: To be effective, the plywood must be thick enough and installed correctly. Here at SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake we're a licensed contractor with the state of Minnesota and can help with your board up needs. This would be the most inexpensive method of protection.
Fabric Screen: Created from storm-rated material, these sheets attach to the outside of your windows using clips or grommets. Although a little bit more pricey, these sheets are often lighter and easier to install than plywood.
Storm Panels: Made from aluminum, steel, polycarbonate, these panels bolt over the outside of your windows and are still typically lighter and easier than plywood.
Permanent Options:
Permanent options are more costly than temporary methods, but once they are installed they are much quicker to put into action if you're crunched in time.
Bahama: Similar to awnings, these shutters are permanently attached to the top of a window. They can be quickly bolted closed when high winds are predicted and are slightly decorative when not in-use.
Accordion: These window coverings are hinged and are typically made of aluminum, steel, or polycarbonate like storm panels. They fold up into a box that are forever attached to one side of a window.
Colonial: Similarly to the Accordion option, these are latched across the window, but are latched on both sides of the window.
Roll-down: With tracks along both sides of the window, the roll-down option is also very similar to the Bahama.
When you consider the possibility of extensive storm damage restoration, protecting your home's windows from high winds doesn't seem like the worst option. However, if you do happen to decide not to invest, be sure to call SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake today: 952-403-1050.
Tree branch down? Branch out to SERVPRO!
4/12/2021 (Permalink)
Our team has been repairing damage to homes and businesses from storms and flooding for three decades.
Heavy rains and strong winds can accompany just about any thunderstorm, which can cause a ton of storm damage! Our expert technicians at SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at your service!
When winds pick up debris and throws the debris around, there is a chance that it could damage your home. I think we've all had the small fear of a large branch going through your roof or a window!
SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake can handle your storm disaster needs!
Whether a large branch crashes through the roof or flies through a window, we're available to help you at any time. The first step is to ensure your safety!
SERVPRO is capable of storing your belongings in case the water damage becomes too severe. Along with drying anything that becomes water damaged, you as a homeowner are capable of using our cleaning services. From upholstery to drapes to carpets and walls, SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake will make it "Like is never even happened."
Post-Storm Solutions
After we clean up the mess from potential flying debris, we are a certified contractor within Minnesota and can help with any of your rebuilding needs.
Storm damage can happen fast, but we're faster.
If you need any assistance, feel free to give SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake a call at 952-403-1050.
Protecting Your Pets During a Storm
2/15/2021 (Permalink)
Torrential rains and thunderstorms can flood basements and, seemingly every year cause the Minnesota River to flood.
Precautions are necessary when a thunderstorm or flash flooding is upon us. Thankfully, as humans, we know the importance of having a plan of actions. However, our furry friends are not so capable. For some, your pets are your family and just like a family heirloom they hold importance. Preparing for a storm can be overwhelming and can be even more chaotic if you have a frantic animal around.
Protect Your Furry Little Friends
- Keep your pets inside. If left outdoors, they could be hurt by damaging winds or run away due to fear.
- Ensure you have proper supplies for your pet. Water, non-perishable pet food, their medications, leashes and ID tags, and a first aid kit.
- Microchip your pets. If your animal runs away, a microchip makes you reachable if they were to be found by an animal shelter or vet.
- Pet ID: Make sure that your pet has tags that are up to date and accurate. Always include a phone number as well as your name.
Keeping your best friends safe is always a priority. Make sure you are prepared to care for those who look to you for safety everyday.
Many of these tips are easily added to a precautionary plan that you might already have created. A few more simple steps can go a long way when disaster strikes. For all of your storm damage questions and concerns, please call 952-403-1050. We'd love to settle any anxieties you may have.
Preparing for a Blackout
1/18/2021 (Permalink)
We are proud to be an active member of the Shakopee community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.
Storms are extremely unpredictable. The conditions created by thunderstorms or tornadoes, such as damaging winds, can result in loss of power for your property. It is important to prepare for the possibility of a power outage before it occurs to ensure safety for both you and your property.
Preparation Strategies for a Power Outage
Take inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Ensure that these items are connected to a source of power, such as a generator, to guarantee that they will be in working condition if the power were to go out.
Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. If bad weather is on the way, you can already be a step or two ahead of the game and enact these practices sooner rather than later.
Review the supplies that you have handy in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries and ensure you have nonperishable food and water.
Be sure to read and follow all manufacturer directions if using a generator for electricity. It is imperative that your generator is properly set up. If the power goes out and the generator fails, you're in for more issues.
Install carbon monoxide and smoke detector with battery backup in central locations on all levels of the property.
As with tornado and flood preparation, power outage preparation is essential to take care of your property. If recent storms have caused damage to your home or business, the experts at SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake are Here to Help. Call us at 952-403-1050 - We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.
Preparing for a Blackout
1/4/2021 (Permalink)
We are proud to be an active member of the Shakopee community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.
Storms are extremely unpredictable. The conditions created by thunderstorms or tornadoes, such as damaging winds, can result in loss of power for your property. It is important to prepare for the possibility of a power outage before it occurs to ensure safety for both you and your property.
Preparation Strategies for a Power Outage
Take inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Ensure that these items are connected to a source of power, such as a generator, to guarantee that they will be in working condition if the power were to go out.
Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. If bad weather is on the way, you can already be a step or two ahead of the game and enact these practices sooner rather than later.
Review the supplies that you have handy in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries and ensure you have nonperishable food and water.
Be sure to read and follow all manufacturer directions if using a generator for electricity. It is imperative that your generator is properly set up. If the power goes out and the generator fails, you're in for more issues.
Install carbon monoxide and smoke detector with battery backup in central locations on all levels of the property.
As with tornado and flood preparation, power outage preparation is essential to take care of your property. If recent storms have caused damage to your home or business, the experts at SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake are Here to Help. Call us at 952-403-1050 - We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.
Storm Damage Cleanup in Shakopee, Savage, and Prior Lake
11/30/2020 (Permalink)
Storm Damage Potential You May Not Have Considered
Massive storms are a danger all over the Midwest, and when they tear through places like Shakopee, Prior Lake, and Savage, they can leave sheer devastation behind. Most people worry about flood and water damage from storms, but there are other kinds of damage that you may not realize are common. Check out some types of storm damage you may not have considered and learn how a Prior Lake and Shakopee storm damage cleanup and restoration service can help.
Flood and Water Damage
Flood and water damage are the obvious concern after a severe storm. Storms bring driving rain and can cause water levels to rise as well as pipes to burst. The right storm damage and cleanup service can come in, remove standing water and dry out your space with industrial-strength pumps and air movers so that your place is dry as a bone once more.
Mold Damage
Moisture can cause terrible damage to your structure, but along with moisture comes mold. Mold remediation requires specialized, expert touches to take care of the visible patches and control the clouds of spores on which it travels.
Fire Damage
Few people consider the harm that can be caused when a lightning strike or broken wire from powerful wind results in a fire. When this happens, you need a service that can clean up the soot, smoke and structural damage and rebuild your home or business back to the way it was.
Call SERVPRO
When you've suffered water, mold, fire or wind damage in the Prior Lake, Shakopee or Savage area, call SERVPRO at 952-403-1050. We're the locally owned and operated company with expert service to get you on your feet again.
Heavy rains and Flooded Basements
9/20/2016 (Permalink)
Heavy rain can potentially cause flooding in your basement when you least expect it. One of the worst incidents a residential property owner can experience is water damage. SERVPRO is dedicated to helping families to quickly address these emergencies. Our team is certified and trained to deal with all kinds of water damage removal, and they will work with you quickly after your initial call. We also advise you on how to minimize the flood damage until our crew arrives.
How to Reduce the Damage:
- If possible, stop water at its source.
- Do NOT walk on wet carpeting.
- If the area is safe to approach, remove any small electrical devices from area(s) with excess water and turn off the electricity in your home.
- To avoid the risk of electric shock, do NOT use a home or shop vacuum in attempts to remove water.
- Remove any high-value, breakable, and/or moisture-sensitive items.
- Remember to constantly wash your hands after handling any items.
- Plan for the restoration crew to move furniture to safe, dry areas.
- Do not be tempted to turn on heating, fans or air conditioning units as they could potentially spread contamination if the situation is related to sewage.
Our Process:
- We will immediately bring extraction equipment into your home to remove any freestanding water.
- We use professional grade dehumidifying and drying equipment to treat the effective area(s) in order to bring the humidity levels in your home back to normal. Additional tools are used to find pockets of water that could be hidden.
- Proper drying and extraction techniques will help minimize secondary damage, such as potential microbial growth.
- Saturated, damaged carpeting and padding will need to be removed and replaced.
- Our professionals will monitor the drying process and reposition the drying equipment as needed.
Once your belongings and home are dry, we will put everything back as it was. If necessary, we are able to work directly with your insurance company to help process the insurance claim. Flood damage can cause severe damage in your home, but SERVPRO of Scott County and Chaska can help avoid additional damage when you call us right away at (952) 403-1050. We will act quickly to begin the process of flood damage remediation.
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