SERVPRO® Team Davis Gets Back to School Faster!

9/13/2023 (Permalink)

Patrick, a Team Davis technician, extracting water from a Pre-School classroom rug after overnight water damage caused from a leak.

As we continue to progress through another September, it's time to embark upon a new school year. However, the last thing you want is for flooding to ruin your back-to-school process.

That's where SERVPRO® Team Davis comes in. As the premier cleaning, restoration, and reconstruction company in the Lehigh Valley, we're here to help ensure that your school is ready for students and staff alike. Whether you need water damage restoration, carpet cleanings, or mold remediation, our mitigation and reconstruction teams have the expertise and equipment to get the job done quickly and efficiently, truly making your disaster "Like it never even happened."

Don't let flooding put a damper on your back-to-school plans - contact SERVPRO® Team Davis today by call or text at 610-559-9380.

What to Do Until SERVPRO Team Davis Arrives

1/12/2023 (Permalink)

Fire related disasters can lead to serious soot buildup and smoke damage.

Fire & Smoke Damage in the Lehigh Valley

Has your residential or commercial property been impacted by fire or smoke damage? SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is on the way! However, until we arrive, there are some very important steps that you should follow to maximize the chances of a successful restoration.

DO:

• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can cause more soil damage to walls, woodwork, and upholstery.
• Limit movement inside affected area to prevent further embedding of soot particles into upholstery and carpet.
• Place dry towels or old linens on top of upholstery, rugs, and carpeted areas.
• Remove soot from any chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, appliances, and trim. Then apply a light layer of lubricant to protect these surfaces.

DON'T:

• Attempt to wash any walls or shampoo any carpeted areas without first reaching out to SERVPRO Team Davis.
• Consume any food or beverages stored near the affected area, as they may be contaminated.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances, like television sets, that may have been within range of fire or smoke.
• Send clothing or garments to be dry cleaned. Improper cleaning may lead to smoke odor being set in the garments.

Following these crucial tips will help prevent further damage to your residence and personal belonging, and will allow the highly-trained technicians of SERVPRO Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall to make your disaster like it never even happened.

If You Experience a Fire Related Disaster, Contact Us 24/7 at 610-559-9380

How to Prepare for Nasty Winter Weather

1/12/2023 (Permalink)

Winter weather in the Lehigh Valley can cause frozen pipes, ice dams, and puffbacks, leading to serious property damage.

Winter Weather in the Lehigh Valley Can Catch You Off Guard and Cause Serious Problems

Pennsylvania residents are far too familiar with the unpredictable, unexpected nature of winter weather in the area. One day the temperature could be 50 degrees and hope that spring will arrive soon is strong. Then a massive, unexpected winter storm can arrive, leaving a large trail of disaster behind it.

Frozen pipes, puffbacks, and ice dams can all cause serious damage to your residential or commercial property. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall has professional advice for preparing your home or business for winter storms.

Preparing Your Home for Winter Weather

• Open cabinet doors during cold spells to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Maintain a slow trickle of water flowing from faucets, especially if these pipes run through unheated areas of your home.
• To reduce the risk of puffbacks, ensure routine, proper maintenance of your furnace.
• Avoid ice dams and water damage by making sure gutters are clean of leaves and debris and secure to withstand winter weather. 

Preparing Your Business for Winter Weather

• Inspect all stairwells, handrails, and entryways to identify potential slippery and hazardous locations. 
• Ensure proper drainage to alleviate the potential of flood damage by inspecting property areas like walkways and parking lots.
• Check your commercial property for fallen tree limbs and branches. Winter weather like wind, snow, heavy rain, and ice can cause branches to fall, leading to potentially serious property or personal injuries.
• Contact SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall to start an Emergency Ready Profile for your business.

When Winter Weather Strikes... Strike Back with SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall.

24/7/365 Coverage For Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall

1/11/2023 (Permalink)

Our dedicated team is ready to make any size disaster "Like it never even happened." with our 24/7/365 service.

SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, & Whitehall provides around the clock service and is faster to any and all disasters across the Lehigh Valley. Our highly-trained and dedicated staff is equipped to handle your cleaning, restoration, and reconstruction needs. 

Questions? Call Us 24/7 at 610-559-9380

Residential Coverage

You can depend on SERVPRO Team Davis to handle any emergencies that your Easton, Bethlehem, or Whitehall home may face. Our crew of production technicians are extensively trained in the best cleaning and restoration practices to ensure your property will be back to new as soon as possible. Our residential services include:

• Fire, Smoke, and Soot
• Water Removal and Dehumidification
• Mold Remediation
• Move Outs and Content Restoration
• Deodorization
• And More!

Learn more about our residential restoration services by visiting our website at: https://www.SERVPRO.com/locations/pa/SERVPRO-of-easton-bethlehem-and-whitehall 

Why Water Damage Repair Is Needed After A Fire

8/14/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: This article by SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall explains why water damage repair may be necessary after a fire.

A fire is a disaster that happens in an instant. However, it can lead to damages and devastation that have long-term effects. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a home fire occurs every 89 seconds in the USA. Local fire departments are reported to have responded to 1,338, 500 fires across the country in 2020. 3,500 civilian deaths and $21.9 billion of property damage resulted from these fires.

Fires result in cosmetic and structural damage to buildings. Homes may be unsafe to be in after a fire until fire damage restoration is complete. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is a fire and water damage restoration company that is locally owned and operated, but with a national presence. This company has a network of franchises and is proud to serve several local communities including Whitehall, PA. In this article SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall explains why water damage repair may be needed after a fire. It is common to require water damage repair after a fire. In the aftermath of a fire, water is usually used to put out the fire. This water helps limit fire damage but necessitates water damage repair. 

Water Damage After A Fire

How much water damage occurs after a fire is dependent on how severe the fire was and where water was needed to put the fire out. It is important that the entire home or building be inspected for both fire and water damage. The cleanup process after a fire also needs water. Irrespective of high-pressure hoses being used to extinguish a fire or a less destructive home sprinkler system being operated during a fire, there can be extensive water damage that needs water damage repair after a fire. 

What Type Of Water Damage Is Found After A Fire

Drywall

Even if drywall is left standing after a fire, it can soak up water used after a fire. It can become swollen, soft, and weak after exposure to water. Moisture can lead to mold growth in the drywall. Fire and water damage may not suffice and drywall may need to be replaced. Water damage repair experts can help to determine if any parts of drywall can be dried and reused. They will remove and replace the remaining drywall.

Flooring and Carpet

Water can cause severe damage to floors if it is not dealt with soon enough. Wood can absorb water and warp, swell, or buckle. Hardwood floors can be affected by water damage. When moisture is left untreated on the floor for long, mold growth can also occur.

Water can collect beneath carpets. Sometimes carpets may be dried and disinfected and used. But very frequently, carpets may need to be discarded. This is because carpets can retain toxic substances after water damage. Moist carpets can also be an ideal place for mold growth. Inspecting and deciding if carpets can be salvaged and getting them dried and cleaned can be time-consuming. It is much easier if this is done by water damage repair specialists with the experience and skills to do so.

Ceiling

After a fire, if water damage affects the ceiling, it is critical as the compromised structural integrity can be dangerous. Fire on one floor can result in ceiling water damage to the floor below. Water accumulation on the ceiling can cause bowing, cracking, leaks, and problems like mold growth. Sagging or bubbling of the ceiling can indicate that water is trapped above and may cause the ceiling to cave in. The usual signs of water damage like water spots or staining may not be easy to identify after fire damage. Hence it is best for professionals from a water damage repair team to inspect and assess ceilings to ensure they are dry and structurally safe.

Damaged Wood

Wooden floors and furniture can soak a lot of water. When wood is soaked and damaged it may need to be removed and replaced. Cabinets, doors, floors, and any furniture must be checked for signs of water damage. 

Caulking and Seal

When water is left standing for long, the seals around bath fittings, toilets, bathtubs, and appliances can become weak and lose integrity. The cracks that develop in the sealing, as a result, can cause water damage. The seals should be checked, and the damaged parts must be repaired with caulk. Repair must be done after completing the cleanup of the area.

Electrical 

After a fire, and the use of water to extinguish it, electrical components and appliances can get damaged and lead to a risk of an electrical fire. Exposure to fire, smoke, and water can affect many electrical items and the electrical system. These may need to be replaced. When any electrical damage is suspected it must be left to professionals to handle to avoid any accidents.

Water Damage Repair

Water damage repair after a fire can take longer. The wet areas must be dried. A professional fire and water damage restoration service will have specialized equipment to handle the restoration process. The drying and dehumidification process can be completed swiftly using equipment like wet/dry vacuums, sump pumps, industrial air movers, dehumidifiers, etc. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is a fire and water cleanup and restoration company. This company is capable of handling both fire and water damage repair simultaneously. There might be areas in the home that are damaged by both fire and water, and some that may be damaged only by one of these elements. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall has a team of highly trained specialists who can manage both fire and water damage repair efficiently. These are personnel who are trained and certified and can follow established protocols to handle both fire and water damage. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall can assist those in need of fire and water damage repair in different areas including in Whitehall, PA. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall can be contacted by dialing the number (713) 906-5133 or visiting their website.

Roof Leaks and Water Damage

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall shares information on roof leaks and water damage.

With water damage, the need for water damage restoration and repair leads to huge expenditures. This is a cost many incur every year in the US. Industry estimates say that approximately 14,000 people in the US experience a water damage emergency on any given day. Data says that water damage and mold growth cost insurance companies $2.5 billion annually.

Water damage attracts staggeringly high costs. So it should be prevented as far as possible. Water damage restoration can be a long process depending on the extent. When water damage does occur, a professional water damage restoration company is the best option. Professionals carry out a quick and thorough repair and cleanup after water damage. In Stockertown, PA,  water damage restoration services are done by SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall. This article by SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall shares information on roof leaks and water damage.

Water Damage And Roof Leaks

Old roofs

As they age, roofs become weak. They may become brittle and break when exposed to changing weather over time. Tar holding shingles together can melt when direct sunlight falls on them for long periods. Roof leaks can occur through these faults in the roof that can lead to water damage in the building.

Structural Problems Of The Roof

When shingles break or fall away, there is a lack of sealant in valleys, ice dams form, gutters get blocked, moisture is present in the attic, there is wear and tear of the roof, then roof leaks develop. 

Roof Vents

Roof vents must be sealed well to keep water from leaking in during rainstorms. There must be no gaps or cracks in the gaskets around vent pipes. 

Debris

Debris, like leaves and twigs, can pile together and trap water against the roof, causing it to seep through the roof. 

Clogged Gutters

When gutters get blocked with debris, the flow of water falling off the roof slows. This allows the water to soak through the roof. Gutter blocks must be avoided by installing gutter covers, or by clearing gutters at regular intervals. 

Missing Shingles

Roof shingles may be pulled off roofs during strong winds and storms. These exposed areas leak and lead to water damage.

Other Issues

Roof leaks cause insulation damage, electrical damage, mold growth, and other issues. 

Avoiding Water Damage Related to Roof Leaks

Regular cleaning and maintenance of gutters and downspouts must be done to prevent clogs in them. This is especially important if there are overhanging trees. Roofs should be inspected regularly so that repairs are carried out before extensive damage occurs.

After every storm, roofs must be checked to identify and repair anything that might cause a leak.

Skylights must be inspected after rain to see if the seals are tight enough to prevent leaks.

Roof flashing must be assessed to see if it functions to prevent water from leaking into the chimney, vents, skylights, and other areas of the roof.

The area around the chimney must be checked for obstructions.

It is better to keep plants away from the home. Moss and algae grow on them and they create moist shady areas around the home. 

Inspecting the interior of the roof regularly helps to notice damp spots, stains, or holes that happen after a roof leak.

Attics must be adequately ventilated and insulated to limit humidity and moisture retention. If indoor moisture levels are high water damage and related problems occur. 

As far as possible roof leaks should be prevented. Homeowners must be aware of what they should do to maintain roofs and how to avoid roof leaks. In case any water damage does occur water damage restoration professionals can be contacted. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall offers water damage restoration services in Stockertown, PA. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall provides residential and commercial restoration and cleaning services after fire, smoke, or water damage. Their highly trained staff with IICRC-industry certification assures quality service no matter the size of the disaster. This strategically located water damage restoration expert serves local communities including Stockertown, PA. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall can be contacted by phone at the number (610) 559-9380 or by sending an email to SERVPRO5770@SERVPROofeaston.com.

How Homes Are Affected By Flood Damage

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: An article by SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall on the effects of flood damage on homes.

Floods may seem less catastrophic than other disasters like earthquakes or fires. But though not always immediately water can rise with serious and devastating consequences. Apart from water damage, flooding can result in electrical fires and electrocution accidents.

Flood damage can be extensive and restoration and cleanup are time-consuming. Flood damage restoration can be expensive. It can also be difficult to access when floods affect vital infrastructure and many large areas are affected. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is quick to respond and has resources like trained personnel and specialized equipment to handle flood damage restoration needs. This company operates in local communities including in Quakertown, PA. In this article SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehalloutlines how homes can be affected by flood damage.

Floods are caused by water from a natural disaster like a hurricane or heavy rain. Homeowners must be able to differentiate flood damage from water damage. They must also be aware that they need a separate insurance policy to cover flood damage, especially if the area is prone to floods. Flood damage is devastating.

The following are the effects of flood damage that need to be addressed by flood restoration services.

Structural Damage

The sheer force of water moving during a flood can damage the foundation, walls, and siding of a home. The longer water is left standing, the more the structural integrity of materials like wood and drywall is compromised. The foundation can develop cracks due to hydrostatic pressure from the water below the ground. The longer the level of groundwater is high, the more the potential for flood damage.

Electrical Damage

Floodwater is an excellent conductor of electricity. To avoid danger the utility company is to switch off the power. Using electrically insulated gear must be used when working in a flooded area. Floodwater is also capable of corroding electrical equipment. Even after they dry, electrical switches, receptacles, and breaker panels exposed to floodwater can cause arcing. Some electrical equipment may need to be replaced after flood damage.

Mold

Mold growth can easily occur after floods, and can appear 24 to 48 hours after floodwater recedes and the surfaces are exposed to air. Spores released by mold can lead to allergic reactions. It is best to get professionals for mold removal. 

Damage to HVAC and home appliances

The components of electrical appliances and HVAC systems are easily corroded after exposure to floodwater. They can stop working or overheat or cause arcing when used. Appliances may need to be replaced after flood damage. 

Plumbing and Septic System Problems

Leaking pipes and damaged plumbing systems can cause floods. Once immersed in floodwater, fixtures may be repaired after disassembling and disinfecting them. If plumbing systems are blocked by contaminants carried by flood water they need cleaning. Floods can cause high pressure in water and sewage pipes causing them to burst. Septic systems can sustain flood damage. 

Economic Loss

Flood damage can be financially crippling. Flood restoration services can be expensive. In some cases, homes may be vacated and the occupants may need to find accommodation which adds to the costs. A company like SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall helps clients manage the insurance paperwork and process for an easier claims process. 

Emotional Damage

Anxiety, depression, and anger may follow after the trauma of a home being flooded. The emotions people feel can affect their relationships and functions. It may take time for people affected by floods to cope with their consequences.

Flood damage has many undesirable consequences. Homeowners must take steps to prevent flood damage to their homes. But once there has been a flood, a professional flood damage restoration service is the best bet to get the place to pre-damage condition. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is an expert in fire and water clean-up and restoration. They have 24/7 emergency services, are strategically positioned to serve any size emergency, and trained personnel. In Quakertown, PA SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall can be called on (610) 559-9380 for flood restoration work.

The Water Damage Restoration Process

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The process of water damage restoration is explained by SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall.

Water damage is one of the most common causes of property damage in the US. To limit the spread of water damage and avoid mold, a commercial water damage restoration company can be extremely helpful. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is a company that understands how a disaster like water damage disrupts life and it has a goal to make it "Like it never happened." The staff at SERVPRO  trained at their corporate training facility, they also get IICRC -industry certification. In this article, SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall explains what the process of water damage restoration entails.

What Is Water Damage Restoration?

Water damage restoration is the complete water cleanup process from beginning to end. Water damage restoration specialists focus on restoring the property and all objects and belongings within it to their original condition. 

The following are the steps taken after water damage:

1. Calling A Water Damage Restoration Expert

After ensuring that occupants of a building are safe and their whereabouts are confirmed, emergency services may be contacted. Water damage restoration professionals guide initial steps for safety. After documentation, contents of the property can be moved to protect them from further damage.

2. Inspection and Assessment

The location of water damage is identified and the severity is assessed by water damage restoration specialists. After locating the source of water causing damage, it must be stopped if possible. Based on the size, extent, and source of water damage the class or category of water damage is ascertained. Based on this, restoration specialists formulate timelines and budgets that can be expected for water damage restoration.

3. Water Removal

Submersible pumps, truck-mounted vacuums, or portable wet or dry vacuums, are used to remove standing and surface water. What equipment is used depends on the amount of water in the building. This is called water removal. Specialists like SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall have advanced equipment for quick water removal. The longer water or moisture is left unattended in the building the more the risk of mold growth. So water removal is very important. The property is assessed again following water removal to determine the residual moisture levels. During this inspection, restoration specialists decide if building materials like drywall, furnishing like carpets, or flooring can be salvaged or need replacement.

4. Dehumidification and Drying

Water damage restoration professionals can dry areas that are difficult to access. They use industrial-quality dehumidifiers and fans to dry moisture. Drying and dehumidification will help prevent mold growth. They also help to limit residual moisture that causes materials like drywall and wood to warp and break.  

5. Clean and Sanitize

The next step is to clean the area by spraying, wiping, dry cleaning, and wet cleaning. Several cleaning techniques may be used like foam, abrasion, or immersion cleaning. At this stage items that are not salvageable must be discarded.

6. Restoration

Finally, water damage restoration personnel execute repairs to restore the property to a pre-damage condition. Damaged floors and walls are replaced if needed, and repainting is done as required.

Several terms are used to refer to water damage restoration. The following are some of the terms used in relation to water damage restoration:

a) Water Remediation 

All actions taken to remedy or reverse water damage come under water remediation. Cleaning, drying, sanitizing, and restoration of damage due to exposure to water are all part of water remediation. 

b) Water Mitigation

Water mitigation is done to prevent further damage due to water in a building. Water removal or extraction, drying, removing damaged objects and building materials, cleaning and disinfection, using a tarp to protect the building, boarding up windows, etc are all processes in water mitigation. 

c) Water Removal

Using high-velocity air movers and industrial dehumidifiers to remove water is water removal. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall uses submersible nad gas-powered pumps to pump away high-level water. Their truck-mounted and portable extraction units ensure efficient water removal. 

d) Water Extraction

Using specialized equipment to remove large quantities of water in an external environment is termed water extraction.

e) Water cleanup

The removal of water, sanitization, and drying of areas affected by water is water cleanup. Especially when the source of water is considered to be contaminated (like in flood damage), this is vital.

It is good that property owners have a basic understanding of what water damage restoration is. It is helpful for them to know how professionals can handle certain aspects like water removal more effectively as they are skilled and equipped to do so. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall provides fire and water damage restoration services in Schnecksville, PA. The company has highly trained professionals to begin water removal immediately. With an immediate response to emergencies, SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall keeps damage and the cleaning and restoration costs to a minimum. Residents of Schnecksville, PA who need water damage restoration services can contact SERVPRO by phone on (610) 559-9380.

Commercial Water Damage Prevention

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: In this article, SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall shares information on commercial water damage prevention.

Water damage is caused by water intrusion leading to the destruction of building materials. This causes weakening to the building structure and damage to the objects in the building. Something like water that is such an important part of life and seems harmless can cause devastation to humans and their property.

Around 73,000 retail, office, and multi-unit residential properties are at risk of flood damage every year in the US. 2021 reports said that flood damage would cost commercial estates $13.5 billion in 2022. Commercial buildings can sustain water damage due to natural disasters or issues like faulty plumbing and leaks. Commercial water damage differs from residential water damage because it causes an impact on business and profits. In this article, SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall shares how commercial water damage can be prevented. This property damage restoration company responds to water damage emergencies of any size 24/7. 

No business owner would want a situation of commercial water damage. They would need to have some preventive measures in place. 

Some things that can be done to prevent water damage

1. Be Informed Of Weather Updates

Business owners can be better prepared if they know when a storm is predicted and how strong it is expected to be. Sandbags can be useful to stop flood water from entering a building. It is safe to board up windows and doors so that they are not broken and water will be prevented from entering.

2. Know The Location Of Shut-Off Valves

Frozen pipes that burst cause water damage. They have to be shut off as soon as possible to limit the extent of water damage. Hence business owners and stakeholders should know where the shut-off valves are.

3. Store Inventory Safely

At least the valuable items must be stored in an area that is least likely to get flooded or affected by water damage. This will cut the costs incurred by water damage.  Storing essential documents in watertight containers that protect them from water damage.

4. Facility Inspection

Commercial buildings or properties can be large. They still need to be inspected periodically for any problems that can cause water damage. Leaky roofs or appliances or faulty HVAC systems can lead to commercial water damage. If spotted early, such issues can be identified and dealt with so that they do not cause water damage. Bigger establishments or large businesses have a facility management department that looks into this. 

While predicting when commercial water damage will occur is not always possible, being prepared always is helpful to limit the extent of water damage. Very small amounts of water that cause very little damage can be dealt with and cleaned up by staff. However, if there is excess water intruding a professional water damage restoration company needs to be called in. Time is crucial as immediate action minimizes further water damage. Water retained for more than 24 to 48 hours is more likely to cause mold growth. This would be an issue that adds to the damage restoration costs and also can cause other complications. Water damage restoration experts like SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehalalso do a faster more thorough job. This will help the establishment to be back in business as soon as possible with minimum inconvenience to customers. This reduces the risk of losing customers and limits the impact on business profits.

SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is a company with the training, experience, and equipment to handle any commercial water damage emergencies. They are available round the clock and have highly trained water damage specialists experienced in water removal, cleanup, and restoration. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is quick to respond to a disaster of any size and prides itself on serving local communities throughout the country. For any kind of commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall can be contacted on the number (610) 559-9380.

Repairing Water Damaged Kitchen Cabinets

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: This article by SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall describes how kitchen cabinets can be repaired after water damage.

The kitchen has always been an important part of a home. It is referred to as the heart of the home sometimes. Even today it is where families gather together, cook and share meals, and spend time together. Even after the pandemic kitchens have become more important as they are also used as workstations and study nooks. This is why kitchen design is very important and homeowners always try to maintain a neat and bright kitchen.

Kitchens are at risk of water damage as chances of faulty plumbing, leaky sinks, and malfunctioning appliances can expose the kitchen to water. Though the kitchen is designed and constructed to prevent water damage as far as possible, this can always happen. In case of water damage in the kitchen or anywhere else, SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is a water damage restoration company that communities across Pennsylvania can turn to. In this article, the water damage restoration company gives some information on the causes of water damage in the kitchen and how it can be repaired.

Causes of Water Damage In The Kitchen

• Water can spill in many instances in a kitchen, and it can be of different temperatures. Splashes of water can flow and if left for long moisture can lead to water damage.
• Kitchen appliances like refrigerators or dishwashers can malfunction and leak.
• Kitchen sink faucets can be leaky with wear and tear.
• Pipes can burst when frozen or when old. There can be small leaks that are not visible easily. 

How To Dry and Repair Kitchen Cabinets After Water Damage

Once there is water damage in a kitchen cabinet the following steps can be taken.

1. Empty The Cabinets

The cabinets that have been exposed to water must be emptied. Paper goods, dish towels, and other fabrics may need to be discarded depending on the type of water damage. All food stored in boxes or bags may need to be discarded as moisture might be present in the. Glass or plastic containers that are airtight and watertight might be safe. 

2. Removing Water

As much of the water in the cabinet must be removed as soon as possible. If water is left for long, the extent of water damage will be worse. After wiping the cabinets down with thick towels, they can be dried with kitchen towels till the cabinets feel dry to the touch.

3. Remove Doors

Removing cabinet doors speeds up drying and limits the water damage. Sagging and crumbling of particle board can happen due to the weight of the cabinet door. If the doors are removed they can be kept flat to prevent warping. High-volume fans can help to dry them faster.

4. Drying Out Cabinets

Once the doors are removed the kitchen cabinets can be dried. Unless the water damage is very minimal, household fans may not be efficient enough to dry the cabinets. High-volume fans and structural drying dehumidifiers get the job done. This equipment can be rented. Alternatively, a water damage restoration expert can be contacted for water damage repair. Such companies have all the specialized equipment to deal with water damage safely and efficiently. The fans may need to be repositioned periodically to cover all areas including behind and underneath the kitchen cabinets.

5. Repair

Kitchen cabinets might be repaired depending on the extent of water damage. Delaminated layers of the cabinet may be fixed with carpenter's glue and clamps. 

6. Cleaning up

When cabinets are repaired after water damage, they might have water stains. Cabinets will have to be cleaned. They can be sanded down for a neat appearance. A sealant and a stain coat followed by a top coat to protect the wood will help make the kitchen cabinets look good.

7. Disinfection 

After drying, cabinets may need to be disinfected. Homeowners who prefer DIY methods may use a bleach solution to remove bacteria, mold, and odors. Keeping the kitchen windows open to promote ventilation can help eliminate odor. Water damage restoration professionals will have specialized equipment and supplies to clean and disinfect the area after water damage. 

8.  Replacing Damaged Cabinets

Once kitchen cabinets show signs of crumbling after water damage. Especially if the cabinet is made of particle board, it is damaged after exposure to water. Beyond a certain extent of water damage, cabinets may not be usable. They will have to be discarded and replaced. 

Flooding or leaking in the kitchen can turn cabinets into a soggy mess. Cabinets are made of wood, MDF, or particle wood. When particleboard gets wet, it absorbs water and can swell up. The glue that holds the cabinet dissolves when water comes in contact for a long time. The longer the kitchen cabinet is exposed to water, the faster it gets damaged. When there is prolonged exposure to moisture the risk of mold or rot is more. This is why water damage must be handled in a time-sensitive manner. Unless the water damage is minimal, the safer option is to hire a water damage restoration company to get things back to a pre-damage condition. 

SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall is a damage restoration company offering fire and water damage restoration services for residential and commercial property owners. With a focus on local communities in PA, USA, and a nationwide presence, this water damage restoration company handles water damage of any size and is available at all times in emergencies. For any water damage restoration needs they can be contacted by email at SERVPRO5770@SERVPROofeaston.com or by dialing the number (610) 559-9380.