Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts
June historically brings the most storms to WI
6/14/2023 (Permalink)
According to the National Weather Service, June is typically the month that tornadoes and severe storms hit the Upper Midwest. When storms hit your area, trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Ozaukee County to restore your home should the rain become too much!
We are available 24/7/365 for all of your water damage mitigation needs!
Tornado Warning vs. Tornado Watch in Ozaukee County
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
The United States experiences an average of 1,000 or more tornadoes every year. Out of those, roughly 20 are expected to be violent.
What’s the difference between a tornado warning and a tornado watch?
Both tornado watches and tornado warnings are issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)/ National Weather Service. However, there are critical differences between the two alerts.
Tornado Watch
Conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop. Be alert to changes in the weather, account for all family members, and listen to local radio and TV stations for updated storm information. Move cars inside and keep car and house keys with you. If time permits, move lawn furniture and equipment inside to minimize flying debris. If a tornado siren sounds, stay inside and take cover.
Tornado Warning
A tornado has actually been spotted or is indicated on weather radar in your area. This means danger is imminent and you may only have seconds to take cover.
In the event that your home or business sustains damage caused by the high winds of a tornado, SERVPRO of Ozaukee County can help! 24/7/365 emergency service is available for board up, tarp up, and water mitigation.
Being Prepared in Ozaukee County: Pack a Severe Weather Emergency Kit
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
The United States ranks highest as the country with the most tornadoes. Canada places second.
Despite the fact that meteorologists are now better able to predict them, tornadoes can strike with little warning. Therefore, it’s best to be prepared well before a tornado approaches. One way to be prepared is to compile an emergency kit. Here are some suggested items:
Water
Have a purification kit and enough water to last 72 hours
Food
Plan enough food to last 72 hours, plasticware, and some means of preparation
First Aid Kit
Include supplies to treat minor wounds and keep larger wounds under control
Medication
Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medication, and prescriptions
Waterproof Clothing
Boots, jackets, pants, and warm clothing
Flashlight
Don’t forget the batteries!
Blankets and Pillows
Protect your head, neck, and body from falling debris with a heavy blanket and fluffy pillow
Toilet Kit
Sanitation and hygiene is extremely important! Include some wet wipes
Extra Supplies
Remember to pack any necessary supplies for your babies, kids, elderly parents, or pets, if applicable
NOAA Weather Radio
Stay updated with the current conditions. Download the app too!
Important Documents
Make sure to keep all of your important documents in a sealed waterproof container away from an area that can flood
Things to Do
Books, crosswords, games, and other items to keep yourself and loved ones occupied while waiting out the storm.
When the storm is over, if you find that you have property damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Ozaukee County right away for help. We have crews available 24/7 for tarp up and board up as well as water mitigation services.
Sump Pump Maintenance Saves Ozaukee County Homeowners Thousands in Water Damage
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
Proper sump pump maintenance mitigates your risk of water damage, potentially saving tens of thousands of dollars.
A number of homes that SERVPRO of Ozaukee County personnel have recently inspected had flooded basements or other living areas. During the initial inspection process, it was often discovered that a sump pump failure was the culprit of the damage.
Here are some steps that homeowners and business owners can take to ensure their sump pump are operating properly and mitigating their risk of property damage:
Every 3-4 months
- Clean pump inlet screen
- Check power cord / make sure the cord is plugged in
- Make sure the pump turns on by dumping a bucket or two of water into the sump, this will also help to determine if the float is operating correctly up and down.
Annually
- Take the pump out of the sump to clean and inspect it for any obvious defects
- Clean out the sump
- Grease/lubricate any necessary bearings on the pump. Check the owners manual for maintenance instructions.
- Lower the pump back into its correct position in the sump
- Test the pump and float by dumping a bucket or two of water into the sump.
Most importantly, if you do not feel comfortable taking care of the maintenance or are not mechanically inclined, ask the company that installed it to do the maintenance or for a referral for a company that can. Regular maintenance of your sump pump will help keep your water prone areas safe from flooding and keep your home environment a safe livable space for years to come. A little maintenance will go a long way.
In the event you do suffer a property loss due to water damage, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888. We are here to help with your emergencies 24/7/365.
Using IICRC Classifications To Assess Ozaukee County Flood Damage
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
If you have sustained flood damage to your Ozaukee County home – SERVPRO can help. We are an experienced flood damage restoration company.
If you have sustained flood damage to your Ozaukee County home or business – SERVPRO can help. We are an experienced flood damage restoration and repair team, with access to sophisticated tools and the finest equipment. If your property needs saving, we are the right choice. The first step we take once on site, is conducting a full inspection. This is designed to help us determine the extent and nature of the damage. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) categorizes flood damage using four key classifications. The SERVPRO technicians will use this guide to shape their plan of action and decide which repairs are required.
Here is some additional information on the IICRC classifications and what they might mean for your property.
Class One: Limited Intrusion
This is the least severe type of flood damage. A small amount of water has entered the home. There is minimal damage to walls and soft furnishings. Depending on the size, shape, and location of the affected space, large fans can likely be used to dry it out.
Class Two: Intrusion With Some Spread
Here, flood water has started to spread. If your house was impacted by a storm, the damage is almost going to have advanced beyond small pools of water. It may have risen into the walls and started to soak into timber, concrete, and insulation materials. The water has reached the subflooring beneath carpets. Industrial drying machines (and carpet lifters) will be brought in to absorb the excess moisture.
Class Three: Invasive Liquid
The walls, ceilings, soft furnishings, and floors are all damp and need to be dried quickly. Most are fully saturated with water. Water lines on the walls extend more than two feet above the floor. This tends to occur when ceilings leak (during heavy rainfall), and water seeps through the walls. Dehumidifiers and dryers can be used to restore the home, but some materials may be unsalvageable.
Class Four: Severe Invasion
In the most severe cases, objects not usually affected by flooding have been compromised. For instance, paintings high up on walls, attics (if the danger is from natural flooding), and crawl spaces. At SERVPRO, we’re committed to saving as many of your possessions as possible, but extensive damage can render some items irreparable. We will, however, inform you before disposing of any materials. Serious flood damage may require you to move out of the property while we secure its structural safety and install heavy duty drying machines.
If your home has been damaged by a storm or a burst pipe, assessing the damage is an important part of formulating a response. SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is a locally based service, which means that our response is always fast. Call us for help 24/7/365 at 262-242-8888.
Ozaukee County Insurance Coverage for Spring and Summer Storm Damage
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
Understanding your property insurance can help protect you in the event your home sustains damage from a storm.
Spring and Summer weather in the Midwest is welcomed with open arms each year. It can, however, bring storms that could cause a wide variety of damage to your home. Fortunately, much of this damage is covered by your homeowner’s insurance. This insurance protection depends on what type of damage was caused and what caused it.
Here are a few common events that are often covered on a standard home policy:
Wind Damage
Wind almost always damages the weakest areas of a home. After a storm, indications of damage would include:
- Shingles in the yard
- Creased or broken shingles from wind
- Loose or missing siding and trim on your home
- Loose or broken downspouts and gutters
Hail Damage
If hail causes damage to the exterior of your home, your dwelling coverage helps cover the cost to repair or replace the damage.
However, your home’s detached structures, such as a fence, garage, gazebo or swimming pool, may only have limited coverage from your base policy. In order to properly protect them from hail damage, you may want to consider adding coverage for your detached structures.
Lightning Damage
Lightning can cause serious damage to your home, including fire and damage to your electronic devices. Fortunately, your home insurance covers lightning-damaged electronics and other personal property, and your dwelling coverage protects the structure of your home if lightning causes a fire.
Here are a few coverages that can be added for extra protection:
Flood Insurance
Floods are a natural disaster that aren’t covered by your homeowners policy, but many companies offer flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program. If you live in a flood-prone area or just want peace of mind, consider purchasing flood insurance to protect your home and personal property.
Roof Replacement Cost Coverage
Your home insurance is designed to help cover the replacement of your roof if it’s damaged by a covered loss. But the amount you’ll receive for your damaged roof depends on if you have actual cash value (ACV) or replacement cost value (RCV). Having roof replacement cost value coverage means you’re covered for what it’d cost to replace your roof today without worrying about depreciation.
Matching Siding Coverage
Homeowner’s insurance replaces siding damage from specific types of losses, like damage from wind. However, it only covers the parts of your home that are damaged. By adding matching siding coverage, you’ll be covered for a higher amount to compensate for replacing additional siding to match.
Sump Pump Coverage
Your sump pump is designed to remove excess water that accumulates around your home’s foundation. If the system ever fails or the power goes out, water overflow may occur. And you're typically not covered for this type of damage with your homeowners insurance. Having water backup and sump pump overflow coverage gives you that important layer of protection that is so important during these Ozaukee County spring and summer rains.
In the event you do suffer damage from a storm, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888 for your restoration or repair concerns. We are here to help 24/7/365.
Storm Preparedness
2/28/2022 (Permalink)
Disasters impact you and your family. The trouble is that we don't always know when a disaster will strike. PLAN AHEAD!
Know the risk of disasters and hazards that could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate.
Visit: www.ready.gov/be-informed.
Is your area prone to flooding? Know what your risks are, and prepare for those. Check your insurance coverage. Know what your plan covers. Some plans may only cover minimal damage, or damage excluding certain areas. Know what you're liable for.
Learn how to make your home stronger. In the face of storms and other common hazards, act fast if you receive a local warning or alert. Prepare your home to withstand the coming disaster as best as you can. Planning ahead could prevent further damage from disaster. Prepare Now!
When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® of Ozaukee County is there to clean up the mess. Call SERVPRO® of Ozaukee County for all your disaster recovery needs. From Fire to Water and Debris removal, we are there to assist you.
Call us at: 262-242-8888 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.
Dangers Lurking in Flood Waters
7/9/2021 (Permalink)
- After the storm has passed, you never know what may be lurking in the flooded basement. Be aware that snakes and other animals may be in your house.
- Understand that there is a huge risk of electrocution. Make sure that no one touches any electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Check to make sure that someone has turned off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so. Do not go in the water unless you are sure that the power is off. Have an electrician check it.
- Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and also contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
- Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows.
Tips to Stay Safe during a Storm
7/9/2021 (Permalink)
Here are tips to stay safe during a storm:
• Find safe shelter right away.
• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
• Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
• Evacuate if told to do so.
• Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
• Stay where you are.
• Pay attention to authorities for information and instructions.
• Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Avoid driving except in emergencies.
• Wear heavy work gloves, protective clothing and boots during clean up and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.
• People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Preparing for a Flood
7/9/2021 (Permalink)
There are certain things you should do to prepare for a flood. First of all, consider signing up for your local community’s warning system. You can also get alerts on your smart phone.
Find out if you are in a flood zone. You can visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to know what type of flood risk you are in. If you are in a flood zone, you should consider buying a flood insurance policy. Regular homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. It can take a month or so for a policy to go into effect so make sure you buy the flood insurance BEFORE there is a disaster! You can buy flood insurance under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
To be really prepared, you should make an emergency plan for your household. Don’t forget about your pets. Your family needs to understand what the plan is. Review the plan on a regular basis. They will need to know where to go, and how to protect themselves from the flood. Set up and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and a flash flood response. Make sure you have ample supplies, that you have prepared in advance, including non-perishable food, cleaning supplies, and water for several days.
If you have a flood, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888 and we will take care of all your water loss needs. We will dry and restore your home to pre-flood condition.
When Stormy Weather Hits!
3/26/2021 (Permalink)
When stormy weather hits, be prepared! Our SERVPRO of Ozaukee County staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial hiring and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following and much more:
- IICRC Training
- Employee Certification Training
- Initial Franchise Training
- e-Learnings
- Continuing Education Classes
We are available to stabilize your structure to prevent further damage and dry it out quickly to prevent any suspected mold. SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is locally owned and operated. We are ready to respond to any storm, fire or water damage day or night.
Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County Today at (262) 242- 8888.
Severe Weather Can Happen Anytime.
3/26/2021 (Permalink)
Severe weather can happen at any time here in Wisconsin. Storm Damage includes hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, strong winds, large hail, & flooding. Develop an emergency plan based on your local weather hazards and practice your plan. Know who to call for cleaning and restoration.
If your home or business suffers damage from a storm, remember to call SERPVRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888.
When you are dealing with a storm, a flood, or any kind of water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERPVRO of Ozaukee County has storm damage experience. We also have the expertise and the resources and equipment to handle the job.
We have the ability to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of Ozaukee County can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. Call us 24/7 at 262-242-8888.
How Timing Sets Quality Restoration Services Apart at SERVPRO® of Ozaukee County
2/19/2021 (Permalink)
Wisconsin residents know severe weather, especially with our cold, wet and snowy winters. These weather hazards can certainly lead to water damage at home.
But do you know why homeowners across the country end up needing water (or fire) damage restoration during the course of a year? Severe weather, including wind, hail and rain, is one of the top reasons homeowners need restoration help.
What’s another major reason? Home accidents and appliance malfunctions can also cause damage to homes.
We know that no two home restoration projects are identical. After all, each home and family is different. Even the damage done by a burst pipe is different, depending on the home. But we have noticed a common theme and all of these jobs actually do have one thing in common.
What is it? It’s the importance of getting started quickly.
Your home can begin to show signs of mold damage, including a musty odor, within 48-72 hours. Water will begin damaging wood just as fast. Upholstery will begin to show water damage signs by fading and staining.
Choose a Team That Can Move Fast
We have an in-depth understanding of how the damage process works, so our teams are available to assist you 24⁄7.
You can reach us at any time, and we’ll begin restoring your home. Our teams are always available to assist during an emergency.
The technicians you’ll meet when you work with our team are highly trained experts. They’re ready to assist you with the knowledge and experience from high-level training and the best certifications.
Additionally, SERVPRO of Ozaukee County uses advanced technology that you would expect when working with a national brand. We’ll bring that knowledge and equipment to our work at your home.
If your home is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available 24⁄7 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at 262-242-8888 to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.
When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is ready
12/18/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Ozaukee County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,800 Franchises across North America and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the Country.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at SERVPRO of Ozaukee County, 262-242-8888.
Don't Panic, Prepare!
7/23/2020 (Permalink)
If you live in Wisconsin, you know that we have a lot of storms. In Southeast Wisconsin, the weather forecasters seem to delight in all the possible weather scenarios that we may experience.
When we get storms, we usually have warnings... lots of warnings. Whether it's rain or snow, the weather men and women give us lots of warnings.
The main thing to remember is not to panic, but to prepare. If it is winter time, make sure that you have a good working snow shovel and container of "snow melt." Keeping your walks free of snow and ice is important for safety reasons. Keep up with the shoveling when you can but don't over do it. Of course, if it is a really bad snow storm, wait until it is over to get out there. Also be sure to have extra blankets in case the heat is off.
If it is a rain storm, make sure that you have extra supplies in case the power is out for a couple of days. Always have extra water. You need more drinkable water than you think. You should also have a first aid kit, extra flashlights and batteries. If you have little kids, be sure to keep extra diapers, baby formula, etc. on hand.
If you need help during a storm event, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888. We will help in any way we can. Remember, don't panic, PREPARE!!!
SERVPRO is Ready for Stormy Weather
7/22/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County keeps on top of storms and their destructive nature. We follow the weather reports and prepare for upcoming storms in our area. In fact, we specialize in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are not only highly trained in storm and flood damage, they know how to use specialized equipment to ensure that your property is dried and restored to its pre-storm condition as soon as possible.
Since SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is locally owned and operated, we are able to respond faster and come to your home or place of business with the right resources. This is extremely important because a quick response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
We are able to scale our resources to handle a large storm or a flooding disaster. We can get equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country. We also have access to Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888 if a storm comes your way. We will take care of all your storm damage and have you smiling in no time.
When Storms or Floods hit Ozaukee County SERVPRO is Ready
2/11/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response:
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms:
When storms hit SERVPRO of Ozaukee County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County Today at 262-242-8888.
Storm Damage Cleanup
2/11/2020 (Permalink)
If you live in Mequon, Thiensville, Grafton, Cedarburg, Fredonia, Port Washington, Belgium, Saukville, Ulao, Hamilton, Holy Cross, Lake Church, Decker, Lakefield, Knellsville, Little Kohler, Dacada or any nearby area, you are in luck! The reason is because SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is as close as your backyard and ready to assist you with Storm Damage. Just call 262-242-8888 and we will come out to your property and assess the damage that the recent storm caused. We will coordinate with your insurance company to make sure that the paper work goes smoothly.
Storms can wreak havoc on your home or property and you’ll want the damage cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent any secondary damage. SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is experienced in Storm Damage. We have the right people, the right equipment, and because we live in the neighborhood, we understand what you are going through because we went through it too. When you hire SERVPRO of Ozaukee County, you’ll find people who care and who have the right resources to assist with any size job. We will be there for you day or night. Just call 262-242-8888.
A Storm is Coming
2/6/2020 (Permalink)
The TV Weather Forecasters are pretty good at predicting stormy weather. Pay attention to the areas where the storm is going to hit and take all the normal precautions.
When the storm is really big and there is a chance that you may have to evacuate, make sure that you have your cell phone charged up and your cell phone charger with you. You should also have a contact person who can receive phone calls from you and distribute your important information to others who may need it. The contact person should be someone who is not in the affected area.
If you don't have to evacuate, make sure that all your windows and doors are closed properly. You may want to get some sand bags and put them in places that will keep the rain from coming in. If your home has a sump pump, check it to make sure that it is working and is plugged in.
You might want to make up an emergency bag with equipment like flash lights and batteries. Make sure that each person in the house has a flashlight and that there are lots of batteries. You should make sure that you have enough water for a couple of days for you and your family. You may need water to drink, cook, or even bathe. If you have prescription drugs that are running low, check with your pharmacy to see if they will let you refill them ahead of the storm.
The best thing you can do is to be prepared. If you need help after the storm, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888 and we will help you dry out your structure.
Storms, Storms Everywhere
12/30/2019 (Permalink)
The TV channel you watch says that a storm is coming. What should you do? First of all, don't panic. Second of all, listen to all the warnings and follow directions. If you are asked to evacuate, don't hesitate. Evacuate!
If it looks like a lot of rain is coming, do all the obvious things first: make sure that all your windows and doors are closed properly. You may want to get some sand bags and put them in places that will keep the rain from coming in. Be sure to check your sump pump to make sure that it is working and plugged in.
This would be a good time to check your flash lights and batteries. Make sure that each person in the house has a flashlight and that there are lots of batteries. Make sure that you have supplies, especially water, for a couple of days for you and your family just in case you can't get out right away. If you have prescriptions that are running low, you may want to fill them ahead of the storm.
The best thing you can do is be prepared. If after all that preparation water still gets into your house, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888 and we will dry out your structure.