Malfunctioning Sump Pump Causes Basement Flooding in Oak Lawn Home?

9/17/2024 (Permalink)

We mitigate and restore storm damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local Oak Lawn team restores storm damage in Oak Lawn every year. A sump pump is a critical defense against basement flooding, especially during summer when heavy rains can overwhelm drainage systems. However, when a sump pump fails, the consequences can be devastating. Many homeowners rely on sump pumps to keep their basements dry, but these devices are not infallible.

Sump pump failures often occur due to power outages during severe storms, which are common in the summer months. Without a backup power source, the pump stops working, allowing water to seep into the basement.

Mechanical failures, such as a clogged intake or a malfunctioning float switch, can also render the pump ineffective. Additionally, if the pump is improperly sized or installed, it may not be able to handle the volume of water during heavy rainfall, leading to flooding.

Basement flooding can cause severe damage to floors, walls, and personal items, and it can also encourage mold growth. To avoid this, it's essential to regularly maintain and test your sump pump. Adding a battery backup system can further ensure that your pump remains operational during power outages, offering peace of mind and safeguarding your home against potential water damage.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business has storm damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

What You Need to Know About Electric Blankets and Fire Risks in Alsip?

9/10/2024 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local Oak Lawn team is highly trained and certified to restore fire damage in Alsip. Electric blankets provide warmth during cold nights, but they can also pose fire risks if not used properly. One significant risk is overheating, which can occur if the blanket is used for extended periods or is not designed for continuous use.

A common cause of electric blanket fires is the malfunction or wear of internal wiring. Over time, the wires inside the blanket can fray or become damaged, creating short circuits that can ignite surrounding materials. Additionally, using an electric blanket that is older or not certified by a recognized safety standard can increase the risk.

To minimize the fire risk, ensure your electric blanket is in good condition and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid folding or tucking in the blanket, which can cause overheating in localized areas. Regularly inspect the blanket for signs of wear and replace it if necessary. Proper maintenance and cautious use are key to enjoying the warmth of an electric blanket safely.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Alsip is damaged by fire, our local team in Oak Lawn is always Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Lightning Safety Tips: When Thunder Roars Go Indoors in Hickory Hills?

9/3/2024 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local Oak Lawn team restores storm damage “Like it never even happened” in Hickory Hills. Summer thunderstorms are common, bringing the awe-inspiring yet dangerous spectacle of lightning. Ensuring safety during these storms is crucial, especially when lightning is involved. Here are some essential tips to protect yourself and your loved ones.

First, the safest place during a thunderstorm is indoors. Avoid open fields, high land, trees, poles, or other tall objects. Once inside, stay away from windows, doors, and anything that conducts electricity, including corded phones, appliances, wires, TV cables, and plumbing.

If you find yourself outdoors during a storm without the option to take shelter in a building or vehicle, you can lessen your risk by adopting a safer posture. Crouch low to the ground on the balls of your feet, keep your head down, and cover your ears with your hands. Try to make your body as small as possible and limit your contact with the ground to reduce your exposure to lightning.

Remember, lightning can strike even when the storm is not overhead, so it's important to wait at least thirty minutes after the last thunderclap before going outside. Also, consider installing surge protectors in your home to protect your electronics and appliances from unexpected power surges caused by a lightning strike.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Hickory Hills has storm damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Professional Restoration Services for Cleaning Smoke and Soot Residue in Bridgeview?

8/27/2024 (Permalink)

We are storm damage restoration leaders in Cook County.

When a fire strikes, the immediate damage is often visible, but the aftermath, particularly smoke and soot residue, can be just as devastating to a home. Smoke and soot particles can permeate the entire structure, embedding themselves into walls, ceilings, furniture, and personal belongings. While it may be tempting to handle the cleanup yourself, the complexity of removing smoke and soot residue completely requires professional restoration services.

Our local Oak Lawn team is a top choice for fire damage restoration services in Bridgeview. We have the training, equipment, and experience to remove smoke residue and soot particles without causing further damage. It's crucial to understand that soot is acidic and can cause long-term harm if not adequately addressed. It can corrode metals, discolor fabrics, and weaken structural components over time. Also, improper cleaning techniques can push soot deeper into surfaces, making eliminating it more difficult.

Our professionals use advanced equipment, such as HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers, to remove airborne particles that can settle and cause additional damage. By relying on our highly trained teams, homeowners can ensure that their property is thoroughly cleaned and restored, preventing future issues and preserving the integrity of their home.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Bridgeview has fire, smoke, and soot damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Restoration Services for Summer Storm Damage in Oak Lawn?

8/20/2024 (Permalink)

We are storm damage restoration leaders in Cook County.

Oak Lawn, Illinois, is no stranger to dramatic summer storms, which can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and even hail. These storms often significantly damage homes and properties, making effective storm and flood damage cleanup essential for affected residents. Finding the proper help is critical when dealing with the aftermath of such storms.

Our local team in Oak Lawn is a top choice for storm damage restoration services. We are available to assist residents in recovering from storm impacts. Our highly trained storm and flood damage cleanup teams are on call to provide 24/7 emergency storm service. Their incredibly fast emergency response time, usually four hours or less, ensures the storm damage is assessed and addressed promptly, giving you the peace of mind that you are well taken care of. This rapid response is crucial in mitigating further damage and beginning the restoration process.

We also have established relationships with all major insurance companies and can assist you with the insurance claim process. Our team will guide you through the process, making it easier for homeowners to navigate the claim process and providing you with the reassurance that you are in good hands.

With the summer storm season often bringing unpredictable weather, having access to reliable storm restoration services can make a significant difference in recovering quickly and efficiently.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business has storm damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Staying Dry When Flood Conditions Are Present | SERVPRO of Oak Lawn

5/20/2024 (Permalink)

Has an unexpected flash flood taken your house by storm? Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn today so we can help get your home back in prime condition.

Suffering from a flood may feel like a situation that isn’t very common, especially in the suburbs of Chicago. However, floods are more common than you think! It doesn’t have to be raining intensely for a flood to happen in the city. 

Even something as simple as a broken water main or a busted pipe can lead to a serious flood situation that must be dealt with right away. 

Knowing what to do if you are faced with the potential of a flood can help keep you safe and dry no matter what situation is occurring. 

Tips for a Flash Flood 

Flash flood warnings can accompany any sort of severe weather situation where flood conditions could impact our community. It doesn’t even have to be raining at the moment for the warning to be issued. In any case, you should start preparing your home right away. 

Tidy up your yard, clear up child’s toys and other yard clutter and tie down anything that could potentially be swept away. Trampolines, propane tanks and patio furniture can all easily be swept away with just a few inches of fast-moving water. 

Get inside and locate your emergency kit. Consider filling up some bottles of fresh water for each member of your family since flood conditions can sometimes impact the safety of the water flowing through your pipes. Stay inside and stay above the water line if the water starts rushing into your home. 

Tips for a Manmade Flood

If your home or business becomes the unfortunate victim of a broken pipe or busted water line, you could find yourself with a basement full of water. Depending on if you are home when the incident begins, you can quickly shut off the connecting water valve to stop the flow of water. 

If you are unfortunately not home when it occurs, you could be faced with a seriously flooded space. 

In any case, do not walk through the water. If you don’t know what caused the water line to burst or you can’t pinpoint exactly what kind of water came out of the pipe, do your best not to touch it. Gray water and black water pipes are also flowing through your home and handling this type of water can make you really sick. Get us on the phone right away!

How We Can Dry Up Your Space 

A quick restoration is essential no matter what kind of flood situation happens on your property. The longer the water sits, the greater the chance that bacteria has started to grow or your home’s structure will suffer more damage. 

Over time, mold can even start growing. We will quickly and expertly remove the excess water, and we can also use our specialized equipment to identify hidden moisture behind your walls. 

Lingering water can also cause widespread damage, so when your home is dry, we will address any necessary repairs. We are experts in drywall repair, floorboard repair and carpet replacement, amongst other restoration needs. Call us day or night for immediate flood restoration assistance. 

Floodwater should always be cleaned up by professionals. Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn right away. 

Discovered a Puddle? Common Reasons for Water Damage | SERVPRO of Oak Lawn

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage sneaks into our homes when least expected. That's why SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is Here to Help®. Call us today!

How often do you think about the pipes flowing through your home and whether your gutter system needs some TLC? We would imagine that these thoughts don’t pass through your mind on a regular basis. You are busy enough keeping up with your busy family!

However, everything can come grinding to a halt if you come home one day to water all over your kitchen floor or a flooded basement. Knowing where to look when it comes to finding the source of the leak can help you stay in control of the situation. 

Your Trusty Appliances

We use appliances like water heaters, ice makers, fridges and dishwashers on a daily basis, and for the most part, they are reliable machines that help us accomplish our daily tasks. Unfortunately, all it takes is a single malfunction or faulty appliance to cause water to leak out of it and onto your floor.

Check your appliances and the water lines that lead to and from them regularly, and consider pulling them away from the wall to check for puddles or water spots behind each machine. In addition, you should check all the caulk lines and water connections from around tubs, sinks, toilets and showers. Even a single drip could leak gallons of water a day. 

The Force of Mother Nature

Storms can be brutal at any point in the year. The spring and summer seasons can cause heavy rain to fall that can infiltrate our homes, and the winter season can bring intense snowstorms that lead to ice dams, clogged gutters and roof damage. 

Clear out your gutters regularly during the spring and summer, and make sure they are clear again before the snow falls. While snow won’t melt down your gutters in the winter, it will eventually need to in the spring and a single clog or blockage can be disastrous for your home.

Floods can also be destructive and cause significant water damage. If your home is located in a flood zone, professionally grading your yard to slope down and away from your home can help you stay dry no matter what is going on outside. If that is not a possibility, investing in a sump pump can help keep water away as well. 

The Water Damage Restoration Process
Whether your kitchen is flooded due to an overwhelmed dishwasher or the last seasonal storm led to water leaking down your walls, we have you covered. Our team will jump into action to dry out your home and address repairs right away. The longer water sits, the higher the risk for mold growth and long-term structural issues, so we get right to work!

Our industry-leading drying equipment will remove the water while our talented team will fix warped floors, soggy walls and even tackle carpet replacement. We proudly do it all so you can get back to your regular life as soon as possible.

Got water damage? Give SERVPRO of Oak Lawn a call for immediate restoration assistance. 

Ways to Reduce Your House Fire Risk | SERVPRO of Oak Lawn

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

Is your home left with the devastating aftermath of a fire? Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn immediately. We are Here to Help®.

We all love our homes and take pride in the space we have created for our families. While we are busy getting through our days and managing everyone’s schedules, it can be easy to overlook important homeownership tasks like reducing your risk of suffering a house fire. 

House fires are almost always unexpected situations, but unfortunately, most of them could have been prevented. By knowing what causes house fires, you can take steps to reduce your risk every single day. Read on to learn how to stay safe!

Your Kitchen and Cooking

The vast majority of house fires start in the kitchen—and with good reason. All of the frying, baking, broiling and boiling that we do uses heat and flame, which directly increases your house fire risk whenever your oven or burners are on.  

Stay close by whenever you are cooking, and try to reduce the number of flammable materials near your stove. Even just one kitchen towel placed too close to the burner can ignite and cause a quickly intensifying situation.

If you grill often, be sure to extend these same principles outside, while also ensuring your equipment is safe to use. If you have a charcoal grill, inspect it before each use to look for dents or cracks in the drum and lid, and be sure the vents can easily slide into place if you need to snuff out a fire quickly. 

Propane grills should also be checked for dents, and be sure the gas lines and connections are tight and not leaking. A single leaking tank can become a huge fire risk. 

Electrical Safety and Candles

Electrical fires are also a serious risk in homes. With all of the electronics and screens at our disposal nowadays, it can be easy to leave too many things plugged into one outlet. 

Only have one cord plugged into each outlet, and do not plug extension cords into another extension cords. This is called daisy-chaining and can easily overwhelm your outlets. 

Candles are a great way to make any home cozier, but they can also be dangerous in the right circumstance. Keep them out of reach for little hands and pets, and never leave a room when a candle has been lit. A single forgotten candle can quickly burn too hot and high, catching anything around it on fire in seconds.  

Where Our Team Comes Into Play

Even if you do everything right to safeguard your home against fire disasters, the unexpected can happen at any time and you could be left with significant fire damage. Call us as soon as the flames are out so we can start on your recovery plan.

We are here 24/7 to respond to your call and we will arrive at your door right away to start cleaning, removing debris, and sanitizing your space. Once your space is prepped and ready to be rebuilt, we will deodorize it and start on your repairs. We can handle everything from minor fire damage repairs to full reconstructions of rooms or sections of your home. 

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn can help you recover faster after a house fire. Call us right away.  

Preparing for Illinois Storm Threats | SERVPRO of Oak Lawn

10/2/2023 (Permalink)

Need help restoring your home or business after a recent storm? SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is "Here to Help" 24/7!

We are in the heart of storm season here in Oak Lawn, and we have already seen our fair share of severe weather! Storms can bring us much-needed rain and relief from a humid day, but they can also bring the potential for home damage.

Damage can come in many shapes and sizes. Three main damage threats usually accompany severe storms: wind, water and impact damages.

In the summertime, our community is at risk of experiencing severe thunderstorms, tornadoes and potential flash flooding events. By understanding these threats and preparing for them, you can reduce your risk of damage significantly.

Wind Damage

We all know when a storm is coming to town because the wind starts to pick up. Regular thunderstorms produce wind between 30 to 40 miles per hour, but the stronger the storm, the faster the wind can blow. Straight-line winds can blow up to 100 miles per hour and cause widespread damage in a single, powerful burst.

If a tornado is in the area, these winds can easily get up to 300 miles per hour and can level homes and businesses. When the wind is this strong, trees can be uprooted and thrown around your yard. Backyard equipment, children’s toys and other outdoor objects can also be easily tossed about, and shingles and siding can be peeled away with ease.

As soon as a weather watch is issued, head outside and take a look at your yard. Tie down patio furniture, clean up dead branches or limbs and try to remove as many loose objects as possible to give the wind less to work with.

Water Damage

If water infiltrates your home during a storm, it can cause significant water damage or even flooding conditions in your basement. Once the water is present, it can be hard to dry up completely, which can lead to mildew and mold growth even just after a couple of days.

A simple fix to keep water moving down and away from your home is to install a gutter system or ensure your gutters are clear and free of blockages. Gutters keep water from pooling on your roof and also from seeping down into your foundation.

If you consistently are finding water in your basement or home after a storm, your property might need to be graded to slope away from your home. This helps encourage any rain that does fall to flow away instead of backward toward your home.

Impact Damage

Impact damages may be one of the scarier forms of damage when storms come to town. They typically occur when something heavy lands or falls on your home. Falling trees, upturned trampolines and even overturned cars can cause widespread damage.

Try not to keep yard clutter out when storms are predicted, and try to tie down whatever you can before the wind starts to blow. Move your cars into the garage to help protect them from damage as well.

Severe weather is by nature unpredictable, so even if you do everything right, damage is still possible. If that happens to you, SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is here to help you recover quickly and efficiently.

Don’t let storm damage keep you down. Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn for a fast restoration.

Water Damage Doesn't Stand a Chance When SERVPRO Is On The Job!

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

Chances are you take great pride in your property, whether you own a business, apartment complex, small business, or home.  Suppose you arrive home one evening after work and come across a burst pipe, sewer backup, or leaky water heater in your home. Whichever the case may be, a continuous trickle or a large amount of water damage can lead to a disaster and requires immediate cleanup. SERVPRO of Oak Lawn specializes in extraction and water damage restoration. 

In these situations, always try to remember safety first.  When water damage happens it can be very stressful and sometimes even dangerous.  

If not acted upon quickly, any amount of water accumulation can lead to larger problems such as mold and mildew, further damage to walls, ceilings and floors, or even the outer structure of your home or property.  

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn strives to provide the best possible service all of the time.  No matter how big or small your water damage may be, we have the proper training, equipment, and products to restore your home or business to preloss state.  

Call us today (708) 239-1444