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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts

Strategies for Dealing with Water Damage Post-Storms

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

Drying equipment in a room. Don't let water damage from storms overwhelm you.

Storms bring not only heavy rains and powerful winds but also the potential for water damage to your property. Whether it's a minor leak or significant flooding, dealing with water damage after a storm can be overwhelming. At SERVPRO of Northeast Tucson, we understand the challenges homeowners face in such situations, and we're here to guide on coping with water damage effectively.

1. Safety First

Before assessing the damage, prioritize safety. Ensure the area is safe to enter, turn off electrical power if necessary, and wear protective gear such as gloves and boots to prevent potential hazards.

2. Assess the Extent of Damage

Survey your property to evaluate the extent of water damage. Check for standing water, soaked belongings, wet walls, ceilings, and flooring. Take photographs or videos to document the damage for insurance purposes.

3. Promptly Remove Standing Water

Remove standing water using pumps or wet vacuums to prevent further damage and mold growth. Ensure proper ventilation to aid in drying out the affected areas.

4. Salvage What You Can

Attempt to salvage items that are not extensively damaged. Move wet belongings to a dry area to prevent further deterioration. However, exercise caution with items that may have been contaminated by floodwaters.

5. Dry Out the Affected Areas

Thoroughly dry affected areas using dehumidifiers and fans. Pay attention to hidden spaces like wall cavities and under flooring to prevent moisture retention and mold growth.

6. Prevent Mold Growth

Act quickly to prevent mold growth by applying antimicrobial treatments to affected areas and ensuring proper ventilation. Monitor for any signs of mold and address them promptly.

7. Contact Professionals for Restoration

For extensive water damage or if you're unsure about handling the situation, it's advisable to seek professional help. SERVPRO of Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley/Marana East offers specialized water damage restoration services, utilizing advanced equipment and expertise to efficiently restore your property.

8. Work with Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance provider to report the damage and initiate the claims process. Document the damage and keep records of all communication with your insurer. Our SERVPRO® team can assist you in navigating the insurance claims process.

9. Take Preventative Measures

After restoration, take preventive measures to avoid future water damage. Regularly inspect your property for leaks, ensure proper drainage, and maintain gutters and downspouts.

Coping with water damage after storms requires swift action and attention to detail. By following these strategies, you can mitigate the impact of water damage on your property. However, for comprehensive restoration and peace of mind, enlisting the help of professionals like our SERVPRO® team is invaluable.

Don't let water damage from storms overwhelm you. Contact SERVPRO of Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley/Marana East for expert assistance in restoring your property to its pre-damaged condition. We're here to help you navigate through the challenges and restore your home to normalcy.

The Environmental Impact of Storm Debris in Tucson, AZ

9/17/2023 (Permalink)

Green SERVPRO van outside of a home. Our desert ecosystem is a delicate balance of plants, animals, and microorganisms adapted to survive in challenging conditions.

As residents of Tucson, we're well-acquainted with the unique charm and challenges that come with our local weather patterns. In this blog, we'll dive into a topic that concerns us all – the environmental impact of storm debris in our region. Join us as we explore the effects of storm debris on our ecosystem, learn how to mitigate its impact, and embrace sustainable practices to safeguard our homes and the environment we hold dear.

Storm Debris and Its Ripple Effect

Tucson's weather, while often sunny and dry, can experience intense storms that bring rain, winds, and occasional flash floods. These events can leave behind a trail of debris, impacting our surroundings in ways we might not always notice. From soil erosion to disruption of local wildlife habitats, we'll uncover the interconnected web of effects caused by storm debris in our unique environment.

Understanding Debris's Toll on Water Bodies

Tucson's arid landscape makes water a precious resource. When storm debris accumulates in water bodies, it can clog drainage systems and lead to contaminated runoff, affecting the quality of our water supply. We'll delve into the potential consequences for our local aquifers, rivers, and lakes, and discuss strategies to prevent debris-related water pollution.

Impact on Desert Flora and Fauna

Our desert ecosystem is a delicate balance of plants, animals, and microorganisms adapted to survive in challenging conditions. Storm debris can disrupt this balance by altering habitats, introducing invasive species, and causing harm to native flora and fauna. We'll explore how debris can affect biodiversity and discuss ways to preserve our local ecosystem's integrity.

Erosion, Soil Health, and Landscaping Challenges

Tucson's terrain is a blend of unique rock formations and desert soils. Storm debris, especially in the form of floods, can trigger erosion and compromise soil health. We'll examine the connection between storm debris and soil erosion, and offer insights into maintaining resilient landscaping practices that minimize erosion risks and promote soil conservation.

Tucson's enchanting landscapes, rich biodiversity, and tight-knit community make it a truly remarkable place to call home. By understanding the environmental impact of storm debris and embracing sustainable practices, we can ensure that our city continues to thrive for generations to come. Together, we can navigate the challenges, protect our environment, and create a more resilient Tucson, preserving its beauty and vibrancy through every storm.

Battling the Aftermath: Effective Strategies to Prevent Mold After a Home Flood

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

flood waters Take proactive steps to ensure your home is safe and secure after a flood.

Experiencing a home flood can be a distressing event, and one of the most significant challenges that follow is the risk of mold growth. Mold thrives in moist environments and can cause structural damage if left unchecked. However, by taking prompt and proactive measures, you can prevent mold growth and safeguard your home. In this blog, we'll explore essential strategies and practical tips to help you prevent mold after your home floods, ensuring a safe and healthy living environment.

Prioritize Safety

Before entering the flooded area, ensure you wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, masks, and waterproof boots, to minimize exposure to contaminants and mold spores. Turn off electricity to the affected areas to reduce the risk of electrical hazards. If you're unsure or uncomfortable doing this, contact a professional electrician.

Remove Standing Water and Moisture

Use pumps or wet/dry vacuums to remove standing water as soon as possible. The longer water sits, the greater the chance of mold growth. Set up dehumidifiers and fans to enhance air circulation and reduce humidity levels. Aim for a relative humidity of around 30-50% to inhibit mold growth.

Dry Out and Clean Affected Areas

Discard or properly dry and clean water-damaged porous materials such as carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, insulation, and drywall, as they can promote mold growth. Thoroughly clean and disinfect non-porous surfaces, including floors, walls, and furniture, using a solution of water and detergent or a specialized antimicrobial cleaner. Rinse with clean water and dry completely.

Inspect and Address Hidden Moisture

Inspect wall cavities and ceilings for hidden moisture. Use moisture meters or thermal imaging cameras to detect any lingering moisture that may lead to mold growth. If necessary, consult professionals for proper drying techniques. Check HVAC systems, air ducts, and filters for water damage or excessive moisture. Clean or replace filters, and consider professional inspection and cleaning to prevent mold dissemination through the air.

Promote Proper Ventilation

Create adequate cross-ventilation by opening windows and doors, weather permitting, to facilitate drying and improve air circulation. Turn on exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms to remove excess moisture from these areas during and after flood recovery.

Monitor and Maintain

Keep a vigilant eye on the previously flooded areas for any signs of mold growth, such as musty odors, discoloration, or visible mold. Promptly address any issues to prevent further mold development. Ensure your home's exterior is properly maintained to prevent future water intrusion. Regularly inspect and maintain gutters, downspouts, and foundation drains to ensure proper water management.

Preventing mold growth after a home flood requires immediate action, thorough drying, and diligent maintenance. By prioritizing safety, promptly removing standing water, drying out affected areas, inspecting for hidden moisture, promoting ventilation, and monitoring for mold growth, you can minimize the risk of mold-related issues. Remember to consult professionals if you encounter extensive mold growth or if you need assistance in the restoration process. By taking proactive steps, you can restore your home to a safe and mold-free environment for you and your family.

Lightning Safety Tips for Tucson Residents?

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Pima County.

Our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East technicians are certified to restore storm damage quickly and efficiently in Tucson. 2022 has been a year of above-average lightning strikes in Arizona. As of August 10, 307,873 lightning strikes touched down across the state. Here are some lighting safety tips from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:  

  • Avoid isolated tall trees, hilltops, utility poles, cell phone towers, cranes, large equipment, ladders, scaffolding, or rooftops
  • Avoid open areas, such as fields
  • Never lie flat on the ground
  • Retreat to dense areas of smaller trees that are surrounded by larger trees, or retreat to low-lying areas but watch for flooding
  • Avoid water, and immediately get out of and away from bodies of water
  • Avoid wiring, plumbing, and fencing. Stay away from all metal objects, equipment, and surfaces that can conduct electricity.
  • Do not shelter in sheds, pavilions, tents, or covered porches, as they do not provide adequate protection from lightning
  • Seek fully enclosed, substantial buildings with wiring and plumbing. The interior wiring and plumbing in modern buildings will act as an earth ground.
  • A building is a safe shelter as long as you are not in contact with anything that can conduct electricity (e.g., electrical equipment or cords, plumbing fixtures, corded phones). Do not lean against concrete walls or floors (which may have metal bars inside).

 Call Us Today!

Our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East can help when your home or business in Tucson has storm damage. Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Visible Signs of Storm Damage in Redington?

10/11/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Pima County.

Now that the Monsoon Season is over for the year, it’s an excellent time to inspect your home or business in Redington for visible signs of storm damage. Our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East teams have the training, equipment, and experience to restore storm damage quickly and efficiently.

After any major storm, high wind, or hail event, your home or business should be inspected for visible signs of damage. Here are some of the indicators of storm damage:

  • Debris on the roof
  • Dents in your siding
  • Clogged or broken rain gutters
  • Visible damage to the roof facia
  • Visible signs of the roof flashing
  • Water spots on your ceiling or walls
  • Cracked, dented, or lifted roof shingles
  • Missing roof shingles

Storm damage can happen anytime, and when it does, our recovery specialists can respond quickly to storm emergencies in your area. We provide each of our customers with the same care and consideration and work to return properties to their original condition. With flooding, we have a broad inventory of water removal equipment like extractor trucks, wet-vacs, and portable pumps to prepare a home or business for drying and recovery efforts.

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help ® when your Redington home or commercial business has storm damage. Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooding Safety Tips for Willow Canyon?

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Pima County.

Willow Canyon residents can rely on us to be there when you have a storm damage emergency. Here are some tips from our website for things you can do while waiting for our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East teams to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

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

What NOT To Do After Flooding

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

Call Us!

When your Willow Canyon home or commercial business has storm damage, our team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Worst Monsoon Season Storm in Pima County?

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Tucson.

Our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East teams respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. We typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call for help. One of the worst Monsoon Season storms to ever hit the Tucson area happened 60 years ago, between September 25 and 27, when Tropical Storm Claudia dropped up to seven inches of rain in the desert just west of Tucson near the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. The storm caused flash flooding, and the waters inundated Marana and Sells.

Here is some of the equipment we use to mitigate and restore flooding damage:

Water Extraction Equipment

We use powerful extraction equipment to speed the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

  • Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
  • Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

  • High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
  • Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us Today!

When your Tucson home or commercial business has a storm damage emergency, our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

After the Storm Home Inspection and Maintenance Tips for Willow Canyon Residents?

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Pima County.

Although Arizona’s monsoon season has brought only .55 inches of precipitation to date for the 2022 season, a new forecast from the National Weather Service predicts more rain than normal. Our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East teams are trusted leaders in storm damage restoration services in the willow Canyon area. Once a storm passes, it is good to inspect your home’s exterior for visible signs of storm damage. Any damage should be repaired right away to minimize the potential for secondary damage.

Visible signs of storm damage

  • Debris on the roof
  • Dents in your siding
  • Clogged or broken rain gutters
  • Visible damage to the roof facia
  • Visible signs of the roof flashing
  • Water spots on your ceiling or walls
  • Cracked, dented or lifted roof shingles
  • Missing roof shingles

After the storm, preventative maintenance

  • Caulk and seal windows
  • Unclog rain gutters and remove any debris
  • Check your downspouts and clear any clogs and make sure they are draining away from the house
  • Gutter guards prevent clogs and water intrusion into the house

Call Us Today!

When your Willow Canyon home or commercial business has a storm damage emergency, our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is on call and ready to respond to your emergency day and night. Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

2022 Monsoon Season Predictions for Tucson?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Pima County.

Our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East technicians have the training, equipment, and experience to mitigate and restore storm damage quickly and efficiently in Tucson. According to the National Weather Service, Arizona is going to have a very wet and active monsoon season this summer, with a 70 percent chance of precipitation expected to reach near or above normal across the Southwest. Here is some information from the Pima County website on monsoon safety:

  • Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. The roadbed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
  • Six inches of water can cause most cars to lose control
  • Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-up trucks
  • Don't drive around barricades. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.
  • Treat non-working or flashing traffic signals at intersections as a four-way stop. Proceed with caution.
  • If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.

Call Us!

When your Tucson home or business has storm damage, our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Rare Hail Storm in Tucson?

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Pima County.

The end of March brought rare weather to Tucson. Heavy rain, hail, and thunderstorms were reported in parts of the city. Backyards on the west side of Tucson were blanketed by hail, covering the landscape in white.

Our team in Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East is trained and certified to restore storm damage quickly and efficiently. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hailstone sizes are classified by comparing them to a known object. Usually, hailstorms drop a mix of hailstone sizes, and only the really large ones pose any serious risk to people when caught outside in a storm. Here are some hailstone measurements from the NOAA:

  • Pea = 1/4 inch diameter
  • Mothball = 1/2 inch diameter
  • Penny = 3/4 inch diameter
  • Nickel = 7/8 inch
  • Quarter = 1 inch — hail quarter size or larger is considered severe
  • Ping-Pong Ball = 1 1/2 inch
  • Golf Ball = 1 3/4 inches
  • Tennis Ball = 2 1/2 inches
  • Baseball = 2 3/4 inches
  • Tea cup = 3 inches
  • Softball = 4 inches
  • Grapefruit = 4 1/2 inches

Call Us Today!

Water storm damage happens, fast action is necessary to prevent further damage. When your Tucson home or business needs storm damage restoration services, our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help ® We’ll restore your storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Please call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Dust Storm Safety Tips for Tucson Residents?

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Pima County.

Our team in Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East restores storm damage each year in Tucson. The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) cautions that dust storms, or "haboobs," can occur at any time of the year. Dust storms can reduce visibility to near zero in seconds, often causing deadly car crashes. Here are some suggestions for driving on wet roads or during a dust storm from the AZDPS:

  • Wear your seatbelt!
  • Immediately check traffic around your vehicle (front, back, sides) and begin slowing down.
  • Completely exit the highway if you can. Do not wait until poor visibility to pull off the roadway.
  • DO NOT STOP in a travel lane or emergency lane. Pull completely off the paved portion of the roadway.
  • Turn off all vehicle lights. You don't want others to follow you by using your lights as a guide.
  • Set your emergency brake and take your foot off the brake
  • Stay in your vehicle with your seatbelts buckled
  • Be patient and wait for the storm to pass
  • Visit Pull Aside-Stay Alive

Call Us Today!

When your Tucson home or commercial business has storm damage, our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help ® Please call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Haboob Storm Damage in Tucson?

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration in Pima County.

Last year, a massive dust storm, also known as a haboob, moved through Tucson, followed by the first big rainstorm of the Monsoon season. Dust storms can happen anywhere in the United States, but they are more common in the Southwest. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), Haboobs occur due to thunderstorm outflow winds, and these strong winds can start a dust storm that can drastically reduce visibility.

SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East offer these tips from the NWS for staying safe while during a dust storm:

  • If dense dust is observed blowing across or approaching a roadway, pull your vehicle off the pavement as far as possible, stop, turn off lights, set the emergency brake, take your foot off of the brake pedal to be sure the tail lights are not illuminated.
  • Don’t enter the dust storm area if you can avoid it
  • If you can’t pull off the roadway, proceed at a speed suitable for visibility, turn on lights, and sound horn occasionally. Use the painted center line to help guide you. Look for a safe place to pull off the roadway.
  • Never stop on the traveled portion of the roadway

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East have been restoring storm damage in Tucson for years. Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Dingy Drapes and Upholstery in Ventana Canyon?

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

We provide a full range of deep cleaning services in Pima County.

Ventana Canyon needs to know.

Are your upholstery and drapes beginning to look a little tired? Although we are more commonly known for restoring fire and water damage, SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East’s technicians also provide deep cleaning, deodorizing, and sanitizing services that your routine cleaning or janitorial service does not.

Drapes and Blinds

We excel at cleaning fine fabrics and intricate pieces using wet or dry-cleaning methods. We inspect and pretest to ensure we are using the best cleaning method.

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

We remove the dirt you see and the dirt you don’t. A professionally cleaned carpet and furniture may make all the difference in brightening up a room and freshening up your home.

Air Duct Cleaning

Regular duct cleaning can increase your home’s heating and cooling efficiency and improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe.

Odor Removal

We have the expertise to deodorize your home effectively. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors.

Call Us!

Ventana Canyon residents and businesses can count on the professionals at SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East to deep clean your home or office, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Storm Damage Preparedness Tips for Tucson?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Our technicians are trained and certified to restore storm damage in Pima County.

Although the monsoon season is about four months away, it is never too early to prepare your home for severe weather. SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East’s technicians respond to storm damage emergencies each year and offer these tips from the Insurance Information Institute for protecting your home:

Exterior Inspection and Repair

Water can be prevented from entering a structure’s exterior through routine inspection and maintenance and making repairs as needed.

  • Caulk and seal windows
  • Inspect the roof for missing and aging shingles
  • Check rain gutters and drainage systems and remove any debris
  • Check downspouts and clear any clogs and make sure they are draining away from the structure
  • Check sprinkler systems and make sure the sprinklers are not spraying water onto the structure and that water is not pooling around the structure’s foundation
  • Make sure water drains away from the building.Water is invasive and will easily find its way into a structure when water is allowed to pool around the foundation. After a storm, or when the ground is already saturated by rainwater, the water may enter into the foundation wall through any cracks.

Call Us!

Tucson residents and businesses can count on the professionals at SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East to restore storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooding in Tucson?

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm damage restoration in Pima County.

At SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East, we know that our fast emergency response time saves our customers money by reducing the potential for secondary damage and more time-consuming repairs. The National Weather Service lists January 1993 as one of the top ten weather/water/climate stories to impact the Tucson metro area during the 20th century.

The Two Week Flood of January 1993

Between January 5 and 19, several Pacific storm systems caused widespread flooding across the metro area. Between four and seven inches of rain fell across the metro area and the surrounding mountains. Runoff from snowmelt from the Santa Catalina Mountains added to the flood woes. Damage to public transportation and flood control facilities, private property, and inconvenience totaled around 14 million in emergency repairs and long-term improvements. Improved design and construction practices developed in response to the October 1983 flood helped minimize the amount of damage incurred and saved lives. No lives were lost during this flood event.

Call Us Today!

When your Tucson home or commercial business has storm damage, SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore the storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.