Recent Posts

Why SERVPRO® Offers the Performance You Need

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

front porch of residential property SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett is your local restoration expert. Whether you've had a fire, flood or other disaster we are here to restore and clean-up.

Ever heard of a triple threat? In the show-business world, that’s someone who can dance, act and sing…an all-around performer.

Well, in the cleaning and restoration world, we’re proud to be a triple threat. We perform in every aspect of the business: our expertise, our teamwork and our rapid, round-the-clock service. Let us tell you more.

The Science of Cleaning

If you’ve spent hours of your life toiling with a mop and bucket, you may think cleaning is anything but a science. However, there’s a lot to learn about cleaning.

Just in terms of chemistry alone, there’s a whole field of knowledge studying which products work against which germs, such as COVID-19. Industries such as the CDC set standards for cleaning—standards which we follow.

We don’t just throw soap and water at your business. We study the science, then obtain the necessary certifications, so you’ll know we’re cleaning effectively for your particular situation.

Our Team Includes You

In earlier blogs, we’ve told you about our dedicated crews. Now let us add one more person: YOU.

Whether we’re creating an ongoing plan for your business or meeting an emergency need, we consult with you before a project and then circle back to make sure we’re doing a great job.

24-Hour Service

Our workers are here for you around the clock. Whether you’ve had a fire, flood or other disaster, we show up when you need us to take care of the clean-up and restoration. Our highly trained technicians will take your call, assess your situation and provide advanced services to get you back in business again with minimal time lost.

Now that you’ve learned why we’re a triple threat, keep SERVPRO® in mind. Whether you want a regular Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned visit or have an emergency need, you can contact us at any hour for assistance.

How Can I Detect and Correct Leaky Pipes? | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

metal water pipe with leaking water pouring out A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett team if you are dealing with any water damage.

Quick—can you name the sources of water damage in your home? You might easily name storms, old roofing, floods and even leaky appliances. One source of water damage that often falls out of sight/out of mind…leaky pipes!

If you do have leaking pipes in your home or business, you need to promptly locate them. Unlike storm damage, slow leaks are not usually covered by insurance.

Maybe you’ve never done a plumbing of any size. The prospect can seem scary. But if it’s in an accessible place, you can often fix a leaky pipe by yourself. This video and many others like it show you the basics of fixing a leaky pipe.

Find It. Fix It. Or Get Help.

Where is the leak? What should you look for when you suspect a leak…or feel actual dampness around your toes?

  • Ceiling stains
  • Damaged flooring
  • Loose, flaking caulking or grout
  • Looseness of your sink faucet or handles
  • Mold or mildew
  • Puddles (of course)
  • Tiles that keep coming up
  • Toilet that moves when you rock it

Pinpoint the exact source. Saying, “My bathroom plumbing is leaking” is just the first step. Any number of pipes might be causing your bathroom tile to come up. Now, it’s time to narrow down. Check the access panel behind your tub. Look under countertops. Try partially filling your tub or sink. See if you can find water welling up around any pipe joints you see. (Small leaks can be detected by wrapping a dry paper towel around the joint.)

DIY, or call an expert? If you can see and get your hands around a leaky pipe, you can likely repair it yourself. But plenty of leaks are just hard to get to. Or maybe you still can’t pin down a source. Call in a reputable plumber to take it from there. Even for small leaks, early attention will save you money down the road.

I’ve Fixed the Leak, But It’s Looking Moldy

Now that you’ve fixed the leak, does the spot need a clean-up? Call SERVPRO®. In business more than 50 years, we’re experts at cleaning up after water damage.

We’re a local franchise of a national company. That means we have the sense of urgency of a small business, but we can draw on national expertise.

Need to clean up some water damage? Contact us at any time, round the clock for quick service and great results.

Growing More So We Can Help More | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

steps up stairs Our SERVPRO team is climbing and growing together with pride in serving our community!

With continued mold services, commercial emergency services, and an increase in residential involvement, SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett has experienced a full circle of growth over the last year.  

Our depth of knowledge and service has grown to incorporate new abilities to impact our communities in a positive way and, just in time.
The significant rains we have received this spring have created a higher demand for water damage restoration as well as mold remediation than we have seen in the past. Our team is ready to step in and help the members of Rockwall and surrounding communities.  

From helping homeowners restore their properties after various types of damage, to assisting business owners in returning back to business "Like it never even happened," we celebrate our growth and look forward to continuing to grow in the years to come.  

If you've experienced water damage in your home or business, please give us a call - we'd love the opportunity to help.

Protect Your Home From Fire This Season | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

< img src =”tree.jpg” alt = "a small Christmas tree in front of a burning fireplace " > Should a fire issue pop-up during this holiday season, SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett will be on call ready to assist.

The holiday season is here! Cozy homes full of glowing lights, fresh pies and cookies, and our closest friends and family make this time of year so wonderful. Unfortunately, though, the coziness of this season actually leads to more home fires than any other time of year.

While you are busy writing out your letter to Santa or prepping for your first-ever Turkey Trot, it is important to remember proper safety practices when decorating and celebrating around the Allen area.

Fire risk is all around us during this wonderful time of year, so staying safe should be in the forefront of your mind as you plan for the holidays ahead.

Seasonal Hazards to Watch For

House fires due to decoration accidents are actually quite common. In fact, about 790 structural fires each year are due to decoration mishaps. Don’t let your beautiful home fall victim to a preventable accident!

If you hang stockings or garland, be careful to avoid any source of heat like space heaters or fireplaces. The consistent heat and flame can start a fire or melt your decorations.

If a real tree is your family tradition, have a responsible person in your home water it daily and sweep or vacuum up any dead needles on the ground around it. Your tree’s lights and other lighted decorations should also be unplugged each night before you head to bed.

Steps to Take

While classic decorations like hanging your stockings over the chimney are common and super cozy, they can actually be a fire hazard if you are not cautious. Try not to let them hang too close to the flames or choose a spot nearby instead.

Also be careful about your candle use! Candles start about 20 home fires every day in the United States, so it is especially important to only burn a candle while you are home and in the room. They should also only be lit in an area out of reach of children and pets.

Outdoor lights and decorations are also a great way to celebrate the holiday season! However, before you set up anything outside, make sure it is tagged for outdoor use and can withstand the elements. Don’t pierce any cords while hanging up your decorations, and avoid hanging anything right over a brush pile or wood.

Once you are finished decorating safely, make sure that your smoke detectors have fresh batteries and are working properly! Review your safety plan with your family and make sure your children know how to get out of your home quickly.

Finally, keep us in mind if you do end up suffering fire damage. Your SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett team is ready to help should you need us this holiday season.

Have smoke or fire damage in your house? Contact us today to get cleaned up fast.

How can I Detect and Correct Leaky Pipes? | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

< img src =”bustedpipe.jpg” alt = “metal water pipe with leaking water pouring out" > A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett team if you are dealing with any water damage.

Quick—can you name the sources of water damage in your home? You might easily name storms, old roofing, floods and even leaky appliances. One source of water damage that often falls out of sight/out of mind…leaky pipes!

If you do have leaking pipes in your home or business, you need to promptly locate them. Unlike storm damage, slow leaks are not usually covered by insurance.

Maybe you’ve never done a plumbing of any size. The prospect can seem scary. But if it’s in an accessible place, you can often fix a leaky pipe by yourself. This video and many others like it show you the basics of fixing a leaky pipe.

Find It. Fix It. Or Get Help.

Where is the leak? What should you look for when you suspect a leak…or feel actual dampness around your toes?

  • Ceiling stains
  • Damaged flooring
  • Loose, flaking caulking or grout
  • Looseness of your sink faucet or handles
  • Mold or mildew
  • Puddles (of course)
  • Tiles that keep coming up
  • Toilet that moves when you rock it

Pinpoint the exact source. Saying, “My bathroom plumbing is leaking” is just the first step. Any number of pipes might be causing your bathroom tile to come up. Now, it’s time to narrow down. Check the access panel behind your tub. Look under countertops. Try partially filling your tub or sink. See if you can find water welling up around any pipe joints you see. (Small leaks can be detected by wrapping a dry paper towel around the joint.)

DIY, or call an expert? If you can see and get your hands around a leaky pipe, you can likely repair it yourself. But plenty of leaks are just hard to get to. Or maybe you still can’t pin down a source. Call in a reputable plumber to take it from there. Even for small leaks, early attention will save you money down the road.

I’ve Fixed the Leak, But It’s Looking Moldy

Now that you’ve fixed the leak, does the spot need a clean-up? Call SERVPRO®. In business more than 50 years, we’re experts at cleaning up after water damage.

We’re a local franchise of a national company. That means we have the sense of urgency of a small business, but we can draw on national expertise.

Need to clean up some water damage? Contact us at any time, round the clock for quick service and great results.

Do You Have a Storm Safety Plan? | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

"a dark cloudy sky with lighting strikes off in the distance" If you discover storm damage to your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett right away.

The spring and summer seasons bring warm and sunny skies, but they also bring thunderstorms and severe weather! Seasonal thunderstorms can quickly turn severe when the unstable air produces heavy rain, damaging winds and tornadoes.

Plus, considering that there are around 100,000 thunderstorms throughout the United States every year, these severe weather events happen often in northern Texas, especially when we have one of the highest rates of confirmed tornadoes in the country.

We are off to a quick start this season so far in north Texas in terms of severe weather. We have had 17 reported tornadoes so far this year when our average for a typical storm season is 23. With the way that this storm season has begun here in Allen, being prepared will only help keep your family safe.

While we know that we cannot dictate the weather, we can do our best to be prepared for it when it occurs. By doing small things like building an emergency kit, developing a communications strategy and having a plan for how to deal with post-storm damages, you can be prepared to conquer severe weather and reduce the impact it can have on your home.

<h3severe-weather-communication-strategy">Your Severe Weather Communication Strategy

The first thing you need to do when bad weather is in the forecast is to come up with a communication plan with your household members. You also need to be able to receive communications and instructions from your local news and authorities.

It is important to know the difference between watches and warnings so you can understand when to stay vigilant and when to move inside and locate your safe area.

You must also have a reliable way to ** receive alerts** from officials, such as your cell phone or an NOAA weather radio.

Finally, having a storm strategy for your household is incredibly important in order to keep your family safe. Have a safe area in your home that everyone is aware of and is instructed to get to in the event of bad weather, and have a way to communicate with family members that are not home when the storm rolls through. That way everyone knows when and how to check in and mark themselves as safe, regardless of where they are.

<h3your-severe-weather-emergency-kit">Packing Your Severe Weather Emergency Kit

Your emergency kit should be packed with the basics that your family members need to comfortably live for at least 72 hours of sheltering in your safe area. That should include non-perishable food, water, flashlights and extra batteries, and a full first-aid kit. This kit should always be stocked and ready to use in your designated safe area location.

<h3after-the-storm-checklist">Your “After the Storm” Checklist

After the storm has passed, you should always do a recap of your safety plan and then check your property for storm damage. Once it is safe to do so, check your property for damage.

Make sure that your roof, doors and windows are your priority after any storm, as these areas are the ones that are susceptible to water damage most easily.

If you do find damage in your home, know that SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett will be there to fix your problem. We provide quick responses from our trained technicians, and we have a passion for what we do.

When the storm is over and your household members have all been marked as safe, you should do one final audit of your safety plan. Gather feedback about what worked and what needed improvement, and make any necessary adjustments so that you are ready and more prepared for the next storm.

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO to handle the restoration. We’re here 247 to spring into action—get in touch with us today.

A Partner Your Business Can Trust | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

"a workspace and cubicle showing signs of water damage" SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett are your local commercial restoration experts. Contact us today should you experience any damage

Owning a business means that each day there will be new challenges, exciting opportunities and on occasion, there could be accidents or disasters. All these challenges fall on you, and you need to be prepared. As you know, any type of disaster or accident can become a devastating loss.

You can rest assured that with SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett right here to help you, you will be better prepared for any of these events. We will work with you to restore your business or help you get it clean. We strive to see our community grow and thrive, so we have a vested interest in helping take care of your business.

Large loss recovery. Fires, storms and flooding are the top causes of financial loss for U.S. businesses. These things can cause much damage, especially if action isn’t taken quickly. You should know that when you call SERVPRO, we will handle the situation promptly and thoroughly.

Emergency Ready Plan. Recovery can start before a disaster strikes, as long as your business is prepared. We can work to help you establish an emergency plan, so that when the time comes, you can roll it out with ease. This plan should outline basics such as an emergency chain of command, alternative work sites and temporary vendors, along with so much more!

Cleaning of All Kinds. We can handle specialty cleaning needs such as trauma site cleanup and biohazard removal, along with more general cleaning needs such as carpet and upholstery cleaning. We have a solution for mess you may encounter

Restoration Services. There are things that happen in life that are beyond our control sometimes! Storms can flood your office, an electrical fire could break out in the kitchen or an appliance hose may leak. Regardless of the incident that happens, you will need to have your business restored and cleaned. You can trust SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett to get it done.

Industry Specialization. We have spent decades learning the ins and outs of commercial enterprises so that we can provide business owners with the best service. Whatever specific needs you might have for your company, we can tackle the cleaning and restoration. We will also do our best to enclose our work area so that you can continue business as normal.

Timing Matters When Your Home Is Damaged| SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

black glasses and pen sitting on top of white insurance policy If your home is damaged due to a disaster, Contact SERVPRO of Allen. From start to finish, we will be here to help.

If you have to file an insurance claim for home damage in 2021, you won’t be alone. In fact, millions of Americans every year have to file claims on their homeowners insurance to have their homes restored and repaired.

The reasons for these claims can vary. Some are the result of natural disasters. Accidents cause others.

They’re sometimes caused by severe weather issues, like wind, hail and rain. Other common causes include home accidents and appliance malfunctions.

Of course, the damage levels vary, too. Some homes only need a little work and remediation to return to their original state. Others need more intensive repairs and remediation work.

But they all have one thing in common. The sooner they begin the process of repairing their homes, the better the results are.

<h2timing-makes-a-difference">Your Timing Makes a Difference

Home damage can spread and worsen much faster than you might expect, and the results can make the repair and remediation process much more intensive.

Water warps wood in a few days. Mold signs can start to show up just as quickly. And the longer these problems persist, the more intense (and costly) the remediation services can become.

We know it’s important to start the home restoration process fast, so our team makes it easy to get in touch with us. We’re always here when you need restoration and repair work. You can get in touch with our team at any time.

We’re here 247, so we’re available on nights and weekends, too. You can trust that we will be ready when you need help.

Beyond speed, there are plenty of other reasons, so many residents trust us to do their restoration work.

We are locally owned and operated. When you call our team, you’re reaching out to your friends and neighbors. We take pride in what we offer to our community and always do our best to meet your needs.

Our technicians are educated experts. Our technicians are passionate about providing the best services and work possible. That means they’re consistently going through training and earning certifications. They bring that knowledge to work on your home.

Our teams use the latest technology. Our connection to SERVPRO nationally means we have access to the types of technology that are only available to large, established companies. We use that technology and those methods to work you on 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 247 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

How Can I Detect and Correct Leaky Pipes? | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

metal water pipe with leaking water pouring out A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett team if you are dealing with any water damage.

Quick—can you name the sources of water damage in your home? You might easily name storms, old roofing, floods and even leaky appliances. One source of water damage that often falls out of sight/out of mind…leaky pipes!

If you do have leaking pipes in your home or business, you need to promptly locate them. Unlike storm damage, slow leaks are not usually covered by insurance.

Maybe you’ve never done a plumbing of any size. The prospect can seem scary. But if it’s in an accessible place, you can often fix a leaky pipe by yourself. This video and many others like it show you the basics of fixing a leaky pipe.

Find It. Fix It. Or Get Help.

Where is the leak? What should you look for when you suspect a leak…or feel actual dampness around your toes?

  • Ceiling stains
  • Damaged flooring
  • Loose, flaking caulking or grout
  • Looseness of your sink faucet or handles
  • Mold or mildew
  • Puddles (of course)
  • Tiles that keep coming up
  • Toilet that moves when you rock it

Pinpoint the exact source. Saying, “My bathroom plumbing is leaking” is just the first step. Any number of pipes might be causing your bathroom tile to come up. Now, it’s time to narrow down. Check the access panel behind your tub. Look under countertops. Try partially filling your tub or sink. See if you can find water welling up around any pipe joints you see. (Small leaks can be detected by wrapping a dry paper towel around the joint.)

DIY, or call an expert? If you can see and get your hands around a leaky pipe, you can likely repair it yourself. But plenty of leaks are just hard to get to. Or maybe you still can’t pin down a source. Call in a reputable plumber to take it from there. Even for small leaks, early attention will save you money down the road.

I’ve Fixed the Leak, But It’s Looking Moldy

Now that you’ve fixed the leak, does the spot need a clean-up? Call SERVPRO®. In business more than 50 years, we’re experts at cleaning up after water damage.

We’re a local franchise of a national company. That means we have the sense of urgency of a small business, but we can draw on national expertise.

Need to clean up some water damage? Contact us at any time, round the clock for quick service and great results.

What Does Homeowners' Insurance Cover for Mold Damage?

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Blue icon with house above hand Homeowners' Insurance coverage of mold can be tricky. Do you know what your plan covers?

You should check with your insurance agent as to the specifics of what your personal homeowner's coverage plan provides - this isn't extensive or a guarantee of coverage, just what is most common.

Homeowners' insurance usually covers mold if a "covered peril" caused the mold. In that case, your insurance policy will likely pay for repairs and clean-up.

Here are some of homeowners’ insurance covered perils:

  • Fire
  • Lightning
  • Vandalism or malicious mischief
  • Damage caused by vehicles
  • Theft
  • Falling objects
  • Weight of ice, snow, or sleet
  • Accidental discharge or overflow of water or steam from plumbing, heating, air conditioners, sprinkler systems, or household appliances
  • Frozen pipes

Some real world examples when homeowners’ insurance will likely cover you in the event of a loss:

  • An ice dam forms in a roof gutter during a rough winter, and water backs up under your shingles. The water leaks into your attic, soaks your attic floor and insulation, and creates mold.
  • A pipe bursts in your home and dumps gallons of water on the floor and saturates drywall while you're at work. Mold begins to form before you call.
  • A washer hose springs a leak and damages behind your washer. The washer hose isn't old, you stop the leak, and report the damage immediately, but not before mold forms.

These are "sudden and accidental" incidents. Insurance companies typically cover this type of damage. In fact, non-weather related water damage is one of the most common home insurance claims and one of the most expensive.

SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett has experience working with insurance providers, and can help navigate the mitigation of your home damage with your insurance company.