Recent Water Damage Posts

Faster to your Omaha Disaster

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Faster to your Omaha water disaster!

Flooding and water disasters don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all emergency cleaning and restoration, including all holidays. 

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (402)408-0134

About SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Preventing Water Damages from Dishwashers

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

It is pretty common nowadays to clean your dishes using a dishwasher. Having a dishwasher in your business, home or office means there is a water line which can lead to potential water damage if leaking starts to occur. 

SERVPRO recommends all Omaha restaurateurs, home owners and offices take the following steps to take care of their dishwashers to reduce the risk of water damage.

Do Not Overfill

It is tempting to fill your dishwasher to the brim especially when there only a couple of dishes left in the sink. However, tell yourself and your staff not the crowd the rack, as an over filled dishwasher is much more likely to leak. It is better to do a couple of smaller loads rather than trying to fit everything into one big load.

Do Regular Maintenance on Doors

Dishwasher door hinges become loose, door latches become misaligned or door seals break, all of which can cause a leak. Sometime the problem can be solved with a tightening of a few screws and you can use an epoxy patch kit to remedy minor seal breaks. However, other times it is not possible to fix the door hinges, latches or seals on your own and that leads to buying a new dishwasher.

Check the Tub and Hose

The tub and hose can both develop faults over time. Consistent and constant use may corrode the tub and create a big hole, and aging hoses can become unstable or cease to fit properly.

Use the Correct Detergent

Always use a dish washing detergent and follow the manufacturer instructions. The incorrect dish washing detergent or too much of the correct dish washing detergent can cause suds and even a blockage. 

These leaks, if not dried fast or correctly, can lead to mold.

For help with water damage to your business or home give SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest a call at (402) 408-0134 to help remedy the situatio

The Aftermath of a Storm

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

The storm tore through the area, and now the aftermath remains. After a storm moves through, you may be left with wind damage, flood damage, and more. Storms can cause significant damage to your residence or business. Calling a professional restoration company can prevent secondary damage and help to restore any damage to your property. 

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has the expertise and skilled professionals with years of experience restoring homes and businesses. SERVPRO has state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to handle any storm damage that may happen. 

With flooding, can come significant water damage. Removing the water quickly is important, as mold can develop in 24 hours. 

Why SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest? 

1. Faster to any disaster. Our highly trained techs are available and ready 24/7/365. Our crews can respond immediately, as we understand timing is essential with any storm damage.

2. State-of-art-equipment. We have invested in specialized drying and cleaning equipment. This allows our crews to help restore instead of replace your property. Our equipment allows us to dry your property quickly and effectively, preventing secondary damage. This equipment saves you time and money when it matters most. 

3. Highly trained professionals. Our technicians are all WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified through the IICRC. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) sets the standards in cleaning and restoration. 

When the storm strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to properly and quickly restore your home or business. 

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Comes to the Rescue

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Kudos to the SERVPRO Omaha Southwest group that came to my home 9/17. This is the emergency crew that came to Milwaukee to help remove water from many flooded basements and buildings. Their timely help saved my lower level from being destroyed. I am so grateful for their service!! SERVPRO is the BEST!! Thank you Lathe for your team and your kind help getting things done. Miracles do happen!! 

Sincerely, Gretchen Burt

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

What are the Risks of Ignoring Water Damage

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

As vital as water is, it can also be incredibly dangerous to your home. If you notice any signs of water damage, it's a good idea to contact a local water damage restoration company in Omaha, NE so you can avoid expensive repairs in the future.

What Are the Risks of Ignoring Water Damage?

There are several risks to ignoring water damage. For example, while it may seem harmless to ignore a small leak under the sink or a leak that goes away when it's no longer raining, small leaks can turn into big problems in the future. All it takes is a little bit of water for a long period of time to cause structural and electrical damage to your home.

Structural and electrical damage to your home will involve costly repairs. If the wooden beams in your home need to be replaced or if your electrical system is so damaged by water that it's no longer safe to run electricity in your house, you can be looking at several thousand dollars in repair costs. In addition to potentially expensive repairs associated with structural damage and electrical damage, other risks of ignoring water damage can include:

Health Concerns

Untreated water damage can also be a cause of health concerns. For example, the bacteria associated with mold and mildew can trigger skin allergies, eczema, and asthma. Black mold in the walls has been known to make people very sick.

Mold and Mildew

Mold is bad for your health and mildew is bad for your senses. If your home smells like mildew, this is usually because there has been sustained water damage that is going untreated. It can be difficult to remove the scent of water damage. If you want to get rid of a mildew smell in your home, you may need to replace drywall and carpeting.

Signs of Water Damage in Omaha, NE

Most people will recognize the most obvious sign of water damage in the home, which is visible water stains on the walls or ceiling. However, water damage can also present as bubbling drywall, streaking paint, and warping of your interior walls. You may also notice higher water bills when you have untreated water damage.

What Is Water Damage Restoration?

Restoration for water damage is a series of services that address the underlying cause of your water damage to prevent major problems down the road. For example, emergency building services after water damage can include placing a roof tarp, boarding up damaged parts of the home, and temporarily moving items out of the home until repairs are made.

As for repairs for the building itself, a local company may use techniques that can remove initial water damage, use dehumidifiers and fans to evaporate water that may be hidden, and repair drywall, tile, hardwood, carpet, and paint.

Ignoring the signs of water damage in your home is a major mistake, particularly because water can cause major damage to your home that is costly to repair. Need to restore your home after water damage? Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to get a quote on your restoration project today.

4 Steps Involved in Water Remediation

6/21/2023 (Permalink)

Water Damage Water damage from a leaking pipe

After a flood or extensive leak, quick water damage cleanup is essential because it minimizes long-term damage and eliminates health and safety issues. At SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest in Omaha, NE, we start by inspecting and characterizing the damage. Then, we remove the water, decontaminate the space, dry the affected rooms, and carry out the necessary repairs.


4 Steps Involved in Water Damage Cleanup in Omaha, NE

1. Inspection and Characterization

The first step is to accurately characterize the nature of the water damage to figure out what measures are necessary. We begin by determining whether there are any contaminants and if so, how they interact with each other. This helps us to understand the extent of your property damage and whether your health is at risk.

To characterize the contamination, we take samples of the water at locations where we believe the concentration of chemicals is highest. If there is a serious contamination issue, we work with emergency response partners. We might ask you to take certain precautions such as avoiding contaminated areas to prevent health and safety issues.


2. Water Removal and Decontamination 

Once we fully understand the risks related to the flood or leak, we can start the decontamination process. If there is still a large amount of water in your space, we use a sump pump to remove it. Then, we select treatment methods that disinfect your space, remove harmful chemicals, and allow you to use your space safely. Sometimes, infrastructure such as piping has to be dismantled and cleaned or replaced to avoid future issues.

In addition to decontaminating your space, we also handle the removal of wastewater and harmful objects. If some of your belongings are no longer safe to use, we'll dispose of them properly.


3. Drying 

After we've made sure that your space is no longer contaminated by pathogens or harmful chemicals, we can remove any remaining water and dry your space. The techniques we use depend on the extent and type of water damage and the location of the affected rooms. If there are a lot of windows and it is dry outside, we might start by airing the place out.

Additionally, we use fans, dehumidifiers, and desiccants to get rid of any remaining moisture. Some vacs can remove moisture from carpets and other soft surfaces. To minimize the damage, we'll help you to store wet items properly. Paper objects should be frozen because this prevents mold and mildew.


4. Cleaning and Restoration 

Finally, your space is ready to be deep cleaned and renovated. Again, the extent of the work we need to complete depends on the location of your room, its intended purpose, and the materials it is made of. Using the most advanced devices and products on the market, we'll remove any remaining odors and repair or replace all your structures, including the floors, walls, and ceilings.

Cleaning up water damage is a challenging and time-consuming process. To ensure your safety, it's important to work with professionals who can assess the situation, decontaminate your space, and carry out the necessary repairs. Get in touch with us at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to find out about our services and schedule your cleanup.

Commercial Water Damage...No Problem

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

Desiccant When you have a water problem we are here to help

Water damage in a commercial space is never a fun thing to deal with. Restoration professionals understand how crucial it is to act immediately when there is an emergency such as a pipe break or water in your business from plumbing failure. Recognizing that a flooded business causes a devastating setback to businesses, they do whatever it takes to get things back to normal as soon as possible.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County has the right equipment for large commercial water damages. Our trailer mounted desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water from a commercial space in 24 hours. This machine acts as a large dehumidifier drying out large spaces quickly. This helps to speed up the drying process, and saves you time and money when it matters most. 

No matter the size of the commercial water loss, SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County can handle it. Once on site, our highly trained professionals will do an initial assessment to assess the damage and form a scope of work to dry out the property. They have high tech equipment that shows moisture, and the path it has taken. 

SERVPRO will restore your property to pre-damage conditions. It is essential to call right away, to prevent further damage from water. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County to make your commercial water loss, "Like it never even happened."

402-408-0134

Commercial Water Damage...No Problem

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Water Intrusion Our Desiccant can remove 500 gallons of water from the air in 24 hours

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly offers commercial restoration services in Omaha,NE and surrounding communities. SERVPRO has invested in state-of-the-art drying equipment for any size disaster.

Large Loss? No problem.

When drying interior spaces, humidity control is crucial.Our trailer mounted desiccantincreases your productivity and profitability. It can significantly reduce drying time and save you time and money when it matters most. This machine can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000+ sq ft. You can achieve faster and more consistent drying times. It’s also the most effective system on the market, outperforming refrigeration and convection-style heat-drying methods.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County is the ONLY restoration company in the Omaha area to own a trailer mounted desiccant! Our techs are highly trained to use this state-of-the-art specialty equipment. Call SERVPRO today for all your water restoration needs. 402-408-0134

Let our staff make your large water loss, "Like it never even happened."

When Water Invades, Call SERVPRO

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Water in a room, says SERVPRO If you suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to make it "Like it never even happened."

Do you know the right steps to take when you have a water damage? Timing is essential when it comes to water. When your home or business suffers a water loss, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest. Our crew is WRT (Water Restoration Technician) Certified. We have the expertise and state-of-the-art drying equipment to properly restore your property after a loss. 

Water Damage in Omaha, Nebraska?

Call Us Today- (402)408-0134

Even though there are no two water damages the same, the general process is the same.

Step One- Contact SERVPRO for Emergency Services

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our crew will take vital information to help us get the right equipment to you right away. Timing is vital to stop further damage from water. 

Step Two- Inspection

We assess the damage and form a scope of work to be done. Our crews use thermal cameras and meters to measure moisture. This helps us to determine how far the water has traveled, and to do a proper and complete dry out. Even though your carpet and walls may appear and feel dry, water can be underneath flooring or behind the wall. Our equipment helps to find all moisture.

Step Three- Water Extraction

Extracting and removing the water is vital. We have different methods of extraction, depending on the amount of water. This step is essential to help prevent any mold growth. 

Step Four- Drying 

We have specialized equipment to dry out your property. The techs are highly trained to use the right equipment and the right amount to dry out your property quickly and efficiently. 

Step Five- Clean and Sanitize

Our techs will clean and sanitize to restore your property to pre-damage conditions. We have specialized equipment to clean anything from carpets to contents. 

If you suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to make it "Like it never even happened."

Keep Your Pipes From Freezing

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

With temperatures dropping below freezing almost every night, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your home or business safe from freezing pipes. Here are some tips that can help you through the winter:

  • Insulate exposed water lines in areas that are not heated
  • Irrigation systems that are exposed should be taken out or insulated
  • Drain any outside faucets or water lines
  • Turn off inside drain pipes that lead outside
  • Shut off irrigation systems
  • Close doors and windows tightly so cold air does not find its way inside

If your pipes do freeze, don’t panic. Before this becomes a major issue, there are a few things you can try so they don’t burst.

  • Soak towels with warm water and wrap them around the frozen pipes
  • Use a hairdryer on a low setting and apply heat to affected pipes
  • Do not apply excessive or overpowering heat to the pipes

There is a chance even if you follow these precautions that your pipes could still freeze and burst. If this happens to you, please consider contacting SERVPRO® of Omaha Southwest for help. We have a team of trained professionals that will be there on the spot to help you in your time of need.

Water Damage Restoration in Omaha, Nebraska

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire or flood having a trusted team of professionals to call who can come in and get the work done quickly is critical. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest provides complete water damage restoration in Omaha, NE. It may be basement flooding due to a bad foundation or water damage cleanup in Omaha, NE after a flood occurs outside of the home. Rely on our team to help you.

When To Call for Water Damage Cleanup Services in Omaha, NE
There are many reasons to call our team to help you. Recognizing the signs of water damage in your home is the first step. That may include a musky smell, dampness in the basement, or areas of standing water. Consider a few answers to your most common questions:

Does water damage get worse over time?
Yes, it can worsen over time as the foundation becomes weaker due to the presence of water. Walls and other surfaces absorb the water, making them less stable, allowing more water in.

Does water damage happen immediately?
It can happen immediately if there is structural damage to the area. It can happen over time, too. That’s why it is so important to always pay close attention to changing conditions in your home.

What happens if you don’t fix water damage?
Water that remains in place will allow mold and bacteria to thrive, causing possible health effects to you and your family. Over time, this can also lead to structural damage of the home, making it more likely that you will have foundation problems.

Can water damage make you sick?
Yes, it takes just 8 to 12 hours for standing water to begin to grow mold, especially when there is a high amount of warmth present in the area. This can be especially harmful to those with allergies or asthma, but it can lead to health effects for many people.

What does water damage restoration include?
Water damage restoration begins with the removal of damaged and wet materials that cannot be cleaned. It includes cleaning all surfaces to minimize any potential mold buildup. In addition to this, all repairs can be made to restore the home in safe condition.

How long does it take to repair water damage?
This really depends on what is involved. Most of the time water damage begins with the removal of water and the drying out process, which can take hours to days. The cleaning and restoration work can take longer depending on how extensive it is.

What are the top benefits of water damage restoration?
Water damage restoration ensures your home is safe again for your family to live in. It also helps to protect the structural integrity of the home.

Mold Damage Remediation in Omaha, NE
Our mold damage remediation services in Omaha, NE provide the relief you need from mold. That includes removing all areas of mold, drying out and cleaning the space, and working closely with you to avoid recurrence.

Why Trust Us with Water Damage Restoration in Omaha, NE?
SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers everything you need, including 24-hour emergency service and highly trained restoration technicians that can handle even the worst situations. You can depend on us as a locally owned and operated company. We use the most advanced restoration and cleanings services. Call us today for immediate help.

Categories and Classes of Water Damage

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

A hallway with wet carpet that says Our goal is to help make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO The category and class of water damage decide what type and the amount of equipment needed.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/ Saunders County are known as the leaders in restoration. Our techs follow the IICRC's (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) S500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration. The techs will assess the damage, and determine the category and class. These help determine the amount and type of drying equipment needed.

Category 1: Refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. A broken water supply line would be an example of this category. Note: A Category 1 can become a Category 2 after 48 hours.

Category 2: Water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Overflow from toilet bowls, or an appliance leak would be category 2.

Category 3: Water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options.

Class 1: is limited water intrusion in a room. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Water intrusion were wet, represents less than 5% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling in the space.

Class 2: has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. 5%- 40% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling are affected.

Class 3: has the great amount of absorption. Over 40% of the floor, walls, and ceiling are affected.  

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your water restoration needs.  

Large Water Damage in a Condo Complex

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

A condo unit experienced a large water loss from a roof leak. Once on site, our production manager and crew assessed the damage, and put together a scope of work to be done. Each unit's damage was a little different, and required a different amount of drying equipment. 

Drying Equipment

Air Movers- These are energy efficient, high velocity, and can drastically speed up the drying time. Our air movers can chain together, and only use 1.9 amps. There are different types to use depending on where and how extensive the damage is.

Dehumidifiers- These work by removing excess moisture and humidity from the air. Dehumidifiers are commonly used along side of the air movers. This helps to prevent secondary damage, such as mold.

Desiccant Dehumidifier- Our trailer mounted desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water per day. It can dry spaces 50,000 SF+. This is ideal for large commercial spaces. It dries quickly and efficiently to save time and money. 

With our arsenal of state-of-the-art drying equipment, we were able to dry this condo complex out quickly! Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your water damage restoration needs. 

Commercial Water Damage in Omaha, NE? No problem.

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

A green machine on a trailer Our desiccant can remove over 500 gallons in 24 hours! This saves you time and money!

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly offers commercial restoration services in Omaha,NE and surrounding communities. SERVPRO has invested in state-of-the-art drying equipment for any size disaster.

Large Loss? No problem.

When drying interior spaces, humidity control is crucial.Our trailer mounted desiccantincreases your productivity and profitability. It can significantly reduce drying time and save you time and money when it matters most. This machine can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000+ sq ft. You can achieve faster and more consistent drying times. It’s also the most effective system on the market, outperforming refrigeration and convection-style heat-drying methods.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County is the ONLY restoration company in the Omaha area to own a trailer mounted desiccant! Our techs are highly trained to use this state-of-the-art specialty equipment. Call SERVPRO today for all your water restoration needs. 402-408-0134

Let our staff make your large water loss, "Like it never even happened."

When Water Invades, Call SERVPRO

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

One man on the left using an extractor, and another man on the right carrying two green fans. When water invades, call SERVPRO!

Do you know the right steps to take when you have a water damage? Timing is essential when it comes to water. When your home or business suffers a water loss, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County. Our crew is WRT (Water Restoration Technician) Certified. We have the expertise and state-of-the-art drying equipment to properly restore your property after a loss. 

Water Damage in Omaha, NE?

Call Today- (402)408-0134

Even though there are no two water damages the same, the general process is the same.

Step One- Contact SERVPRO for Emergency Services

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our crew will take vital information to help us get the right equipment to you right away. Timing is vital to stop further damage from water. 

Step Two- Inspection

We assess the damage and form a scope of work to be done. Our crews use thermal cameras and meters to measure moisture. This helps us to determine how far the water has traveled, and to do a proper and complete dry out. Even though your carpet and walls may appear and feel dry, water can be underneath flooring or behind the wall. Our equipment helps to find all moisture.

Step Three- Water Extraction

Extracting and removing the water is vital. We have different methods of extraction, depending on the amount of water. This step is essential to help prevent any mold growth. 

Step Four- Drying 

We have specialized equipment to dry out your property. The techs are highly trained to use the right equipment and the right amount to dry out your property quickly and efficiently. 

Step Five- Clean and Sanitize

Our techs will clean and sanitize to restore your property to pre-damage conditions. We have specialized equipment to clean anything from carpets to contents. 

If you suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make it "Like it never even happened."

402.408.0134

Omaha Temperature Drops to Lowest in 25 Years

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Pipe bursting in action. This pipe burst was caused by a frozen pipe thawing.

Last week with Omaha temperatures dropping to the lowest they have been in 25 years, residents should be aware of precautions they need to take in order to stop frozen pipes from bursting when they begin to thaw. Temperatures dropped below -23°F in a cold snap that the metro has not seen in years, and this week we will see temperatures rise to greater than 60°F. This is a weather pattern that is bound to see pipe bursts across the city.

                If one of your pipes burst, don’t panic. The first thing you should do if this happens is turn your water main off and call a plumber. Make sure the burst pipe is fixed to minimalize any damage that may have occurred from the water running into your home or business. Try to let in warm air and turn your heat up to prevent further damage from additional pipes freezing. Getting air to circulate is a big step in the drying process and will help you minimalize your damage.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your commercial restoration needs. Our crews are highly trained and available 24/7- including all holidays. We are able to respond to your water damage quickly and our state-of-the-art equipment sets us apart from the rest! Call us for a quote today at 402.408.0134.

Keep Your Pipes Safe This Winter

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipe This pipe break was caused by freezing cold temperatures.

With temperatures dropping below freezing almost every night, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your home or business safe from freezing pipes. Here are some tips that can help you through the winter:

  • Insulate exposed water lines in areas that are not heated
  • Irrigation systems that are exposed should be taken out or insulated
  • Drain any outside faucets or water lines
  • Turn off inside drain pipes that lead outside
  • Shut off irrigation systems
  • Close doors and windows tightly so cold air does not find its way inside

If your pipes do freeze, don’t panic. Before this becomes a major issue, there are a few things you can try so they don’t burst.

  • Soak towels with warm water and wrap them around the frozen pipes
  • Use a hairdryer on a low setting and apply heat to affected pipes
  • Do not apply excessive or overpowering heat to the pipes

There is a chance even if you follow these precautions that your pipes could still freeze and burst. If this happens to you, please consider contacting SERVPRO® of Omaha Southwest for help. We have a team of trained professionals that will be there on the spot to help you in your time of need. Call us at 402-408-0134 for a free quote today.

Large Water Damage in a Condo Complex

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

A brick building with large white tubing on the outside, with a green van. This condo complex suffered a water loss from a roof leak. Our trailer mounted desiccant was able to dry it out quickly and efficiently.

Large Water Damage in a Condo Complex

This condo unit experienced a large water loss from a roof leak. Once on site, our production manager and crew assessed the damage, and put together a scope of work to be done. Each unit's damage was a little different, and required a different amount of drying equipment. 

Drying Equipment

Air Movers- These are energy efficient, high velocity, and can drastically speed up the drying time. Our air movers can chain together, and only use 1.9 amps. There are different types to use depending on where and how extensive the damage is.

Dehumidifiers- These work by removing excess moisture and humidity from the air. Dehumidifiers are commonly used along side of the air movers. This helps to prevent secondary damage, such as mold.

Desiccant Dehumidifier- Our trailer mounted desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water per day. It can dry spaces 50,000 SF+. This is ideal for large commercial spaces. It dries quickly and efficiently to save time and money. 

With our arsenal of state-of-the-art drying equipment, we were able to dry this condo complex out quickly! Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your water damage restoration needs. 

Categories and Classes of Water Damage

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

A living room with lots of water The category and class of water damage determine the type and amount of drying equipment needed.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/ Saunders County are known as the leaders in restoration. Our techs follow the IICRC's (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) S500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration. The techs will assess the damage, and determine the category and class. These help determine the amount and type of drying equipment needed.

Category 1: Refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. A broken water supply line would be an example of this category. Note: A Category 1 can become a Category 2 after 48 hours.

Category 2: Water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Overflow from toilet bowls, or an appliance leak would be category 2.

Category 3: Water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options.

Class 1: is limited water intrusion in a room. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Water intrusion were wet, represents less than 5% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling in the space.

Class 2: has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. 5%- 40% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling are affected.

Class 3: has the great amount of absorption. Over 40% of the floor, walls, and ceiling are affected.  

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your water restoration needs.  

Commercial Water Damage in Omaha, NE? No problem.

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

A green and orange pickup truck hooked to a silver trailer with a large green machine sitting on the trailer bed. Our large loss desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water per day! This saves you time and money when it matters most!

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly offers commercial restoration services in Omaha,NE and surrounding communities. SERVPRO has invested in state-of-the-art drying equipment for any size disaster.

Large Loss? No problem.

When drying interior spaces, humidity control is crucial.Our trailer mounted desiccantincreases your productivity and profitability. It can significantly reduce drying time and save you time and money when it matters most. This machine can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000+ sq ft. You can achieve faster and more consistent drying times. It’s also the most effective system on the market, outperforming refrigeration and convection-style heat-drying methods.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County is the ONLY restoration company in the Omaha area to own a trailer mounted desiccant! Our techs are highly trained to use this state-of-the-art specialty equipment. Call SERVPRO today for all your water restoration needs. 402-408-0134

Let our staff make your large water loss, "Like it never even happened."

The Water Damage Restoration Process

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

A white couch in a house, with water throughout the living room. Image says water damage and SERVPRO. When water invades your property, timing is everything. Call the professionals at SERVPRO today.

Do you know the right steps to take when you have a water damage? Timing is essential when it comes to water. When your home or business suffers a water loss, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County. Our crew is WRT (Water Restoration Technichian) Certified. We have the expertise and state-of-the-art drying equipment to properly restore your property after a loss. 

Water Damage in Omaha, NE?

Call Today- (402)408-0134

Even though there are no two water damages the same, the general process is the same.

Step One- Contact SERVPRO for Emergency Services

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our crew will take vital information to help us get the right equipment to you right away. Timing is vital to stop further damage from water. 

Step Two- Inspection

We assess the damage and form a scope of work to be done. Our crews use thermal cameras and meters to measure moisture. This helps us to determine how far the water has traveled, and to do a proper and complete dry out. Even though your carpet and walls may appear and feel dry, water can be underneath flooring or behind the wall. Our equipment helps to find all moisture.

Step Three- Water Extraction

Extracting and removing the water is vital. We have different methods of extraction, depending on the amount of water. This step is essential to help prevent any mold growth. 

Step Four- Drying 

We have specialized equipment to dry out your property. The techs are highly trained to use the right equipment and the right amount to dry out your property quickly and efficiently. 

Step Five- Clean and Sanitize

Our techs will clean and sanitize to restore your property to pre-damage conditions. We have specialized equipment to clean anything from carpets to contents. 

If you suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make it "Like it never even happened."

402.408.0134

Large Water Loss in Omaha, NE? No problem.

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

Trailer Mounted Desiccant SERVPRO's trailer mounted desiccant is at it again.

The temperatures dropped drastically in Omaha, NE causing havoc for multiple home and business owners. This commercial space in Omaha, NE had a large water loss caused by a frozen pipe. The building was saturated from the top floor to the basement, and was full of contents. Our 5000 CFM trailer mounted desiccant will cut down drying time significantly. This will save everyone time and money when it matters most. This desiccant is capable of drying 50,000 sqft+ spaces. This machine can remove 500 gallons of water in a 24 hour period. With SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & SERVPRO of Omaha West/Saunders County's state-of the-art equipment and highly trained professionals, we can make this large water damage "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO today at 402.408.0134. 

Leaky or Frozen Pipe Causing Problems in Omaha, NE?

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

A frozen pipe with icicles hanging down Water damage can cause serious damage to your home or business. Call SERVPRO, we are here to help 24/7.

Leaky or Frozen Pipe Causing Problems in Your Omaha, NE Home or Business?

The greater Omaha area’s forecast is low temperatures in single digits for the next several days. Winter can be a difficult time for pipes in any home or business, especially during the extreme cold temperatures. If you are going away, never leave your thermostat below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. It is crucial to respond immediately to any frozen or leaky pipe concern. Did you know, even an 1/8” hole in a pipe can leave your house flooded with gallons of water?

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County are your IICRC certified water damage technicians. Water damage doesn’t wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. Our highly trained technicians are ready 24/7 including all holidays, to return your home or business to preloss conditions.

How SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County Can Help

The first thing you should do If you suspect a frozen pipe is turn off the water at your main water valve. Water needs to be removed quickly to prevent further damage. Our technicians can measure moisture behind visible surfaces, for example studs, drywall, and insulation. Your floors and walls may visibly appear dry, but water may be trapped behind. Contact your trusted IICRC frozen pipe water damage repair specialists at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County. Even minor flooding can cause serious damage if not handled properly. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has the state-of-the-art equipment, along with our highly trained professionals to help dry out and restore any water damage, big or small. Our green team is faster to any size disaster! Let our team make your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call 402-408-0134 for cleanup and restoration services 24/7!

Categories and Classes of Water Damage...Knowledge is Power

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

room full of water, white couch covered in water, large orange letter saying WATER DAMAGE, SERVPRO logo at the bottom Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today if your property has been damaged by water 402-408-0134

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is known for water restoration. Here is how we asses your water damaged property. First, we determine what category of water your property has:

Category 1: Refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows.

Category 2: Water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause category 2 water damage.

Category 3: Water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options.

Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation.

Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage.

Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture. Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete.

Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal. 

Get the mold outta here after water damage

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

a teal wall covered in mold spores coming from behind a white trim Mold Can Spread Quickly! Let SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Help!

THE AFTERMATH OF WATER DAMAGE

After your home experiences water damage you are at risk of mold infecting your home! Whether the water damage is the result of a storm surge or a leaky faucet, when water is trapped behind walls or paneling, the elements needed for mold growth will most likely be present. It is best to take action at this time to mitigate the damage and prevent mold growth from occurring. If there is moisture still present--under ideal conditions (optimal temperature and level of humidity), it takes 24 to 48 hours for mold to germinate and grow. Typically, the spores begin to colonize in 3 to 12 days and become visible in about 18-21 days.

How to Prevent Mold Growth After Water Damage:

It is best to take action at this time to mitigate the damage and prevent mold growth from occurring.  

Dry areas immediately. Try to clean and dry areas subjected to water within 48 hours to help prevent mold growth.

Be aware or warning signs. After cleaning and drying, continue to be sensitive to musty odors in the affected area.

Take look outside. Check the exterior of homes and buildings regularly for accumulating ground water. When the ground is saturated mold can begin to form outside and find its way inside. If water is accumulating against your foundation, take measures to drain the water away from your building. Keeping things dry is the key to preventing mold growth.

Remove damaged materials. If materials are wet and can’t be cleaned or completely dried, remove them from the building and replace them with new materials which may be more mold resistant. Fiber glass doesn’t have the food needed for mold growth but often when insulation gets wet, the water which intruded into the cavity was dirty and brought food along with it. If you have wet insulation, replace it with new mold resistant materials. 

That is why it is important to call on professionals like SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to make sure your water damaged property is properly taken care of to prevent mold growth from occurring. Call our team today at 402-408-0134!

More Flooding May be Coming 9/20/2019! Here Are Some Ways to Be Prepared and Prevent Water Damage.

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

flood waters in distance, road block with Flood Waters Signs and road closed to through traffic sign posted Flood Warning, Be Prepared!

Check out This article from KNBN NewsCenter1:

https://www.newscenter1.tv/third-round-of-flooding-in-2019-likely-along-missouri-river/?fbclid=IwAR2U-XJh8L1_lNXRPKDIwFTngBtDBXvEIi0fDXhC_1n7UxEiAq2YjzyQv00

Federal Officials and The US Army of Engineers are saying Omaha may be hit with more flooding and parts of Interstate 29 and 680 could be under water again! Be prepared and safe this weekend!

What should you put in your emergency kit? 

1. A waterproof bag containing important documents like birth certificates, passports, ID and insurance documents.

2. Portable, battery operated AM/FM radio

3. Waterproof flashlight

4. New, spare batteries

5. First aid kit

6. Medications, toiletries and sanitary supplies

7. Special requirements for infants, elderly, injured, disabled people, and pets

8. Mobile phone and charger

9. Cash and bank cards

10. Emergency contact numbers

11. Spare house and car keys

12. Combination pocket knife (Swiss army knife)

13. Drinking water

14. Canned food

15. A can opener, cooking gear and eating utensils

16. Portable gas stove

17. Water container for storing, washing, and cooking water. 

Once you have your emergency kit prepared, try and prepare your property.

1. Secure hazardous items, Roll up rugs, move furniture, electrical items and valuables to a higher level to prevent further water damage.

2. Turn off gas, electricity, and water

3. Put fuel in your vehicles

4. Place sand bags around your home

5. Evacuate when advised to do so

If your property sustains water damage call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134. We are here to help!

TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN!

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

large highway covered in deep water so vehicles cannot drive through An Omaha highway under water due to the 2019 flooding

During a flood you may be asked to evacuate. It doesn’t take much water to carry you away, whether you’re on foot or in a vehicle. NEVER drive or walk into floodwaters. Turn Around Don’t Drown! The water may be deeper than anticipated, have an undercurrent, or have debris that can cause you injury. It can also damage your vehicle cause you to become stuck or the current can also cause your vehicle to be swept off the roadway. Seek an alternate route if flood water cover the road and evacuate when the proper authorities tell you too. Also abide by the posted road-closed signs and barricades. In many instances, drivers have put themselves and their passengers in danger by driving around such signs and ending up stranded in floodwaters.

If you do find yourself stranded in your vehicle in floodwaters, here are basic safety tips to remember.

  1. Remove your seatbelt.
  2. Remove the seatbelts of all occupants starting oldest to youngest.
  3. Roll down windows.
  4. Climb onto roof of the vehicle.
  5. Call 911 from the vehicle roof

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is just a quick phone call away. Whether you are dealing with a the aftermath of flood waters or mold from your home or business being flooded, we are here to help. Emergencies do not work on a set schedule and can happen at any hour of the day or night. That’s why we are here 24/7, 365 to assist you should the need arise.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at (402)408-0134

Water Extraction

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

green SERVPRO water extractor machine Weighted Extraction with the Rover HVE

Storms can cause your Omaha home or business severe water damage. The carpet can be saturated with gallons of water after heavy rain.

Did you know that weighted extraction is 80% more efficient than air drying alone? The Rover HVE maximizes water removal from all types of carpet to accelerate drying in water damage restoration projects. Large amounts of water can be removed quickly by our SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest team armed with our Rover HVE.  The weight of the tech and the Rover causes the layers of carpet to pinch against the surface underneath, in turn, water is suctioned out making the carpet easier to dry after with our air dryers and dehumidifiers.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134. If your home or business has been affected by water damage our team is here to help! We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, including holidays.

Faster to Your Water Disaster

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Three SERVPRO vans parked side by side. SERVPRO takes pride in the work we do, and the equipment we use to do it.

Faster to your Omaha water disaster!

Flooding and water disasters don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all emergency cleaning and restoration, including all holidays. 

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (402)408-0134

About SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Spring Rain Can Mean Flood Pain in Omaha

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Omaha SW helped restore this Omaha basement with over 8" of water. The homeowner was grateful for our crews fast response and hard work.

The Omaha Metro typically sees periods of heavy rain in the spring months. In fact, Fall and spring tend to be our wettest seasons making our homes most susceptible to the backup of sewer or drain lines. While these events don't occur often, when they do, the problem can be a small disaster. Did you know a standard homeowner's insurance policy excludes coverage for such an event?
It's true. The backup of sewer and drains as well as the failure of a sump pump is excluded. The damage you sustain from either of these problems will not be covered and you'll be responsible to pay for the loss and the cleanup. If you have a finished basement, or use your basement area for storage, you shouldn't go without this coverage endorsement.
Heavy rains can trigger a backup. A storm sewer backs up into your home and usually comes in through a sump well, washtubs in the basement, or toilets in the basement. However, the damage can happen anywhere in the house. Sump pump failures normally occur from power outages or motor failures. Sump pumps run on electricity and during a bad storm many times the power goes out. That's when you need the sump pump the most, to pump the heavy water from the rain out of the basement.
The damage can be quite costly. Normally damage occurs in the basement, which houses the mechanical systems of the house such as: washer and dryer, furnace, hot water tank and the numerous items people store there. Water or sewage usually destroys anything it comes in contact with. For the thousands of dollars in damage, it would be well worth purchasing the additional coverage with your homeowner's policy to cover such an event.
Be sure to ask your agent about this coverage to make sure you already have it on your policy or to purchase it. This coverage can often be purchased as an endorsement on its own, or with an endorsement that will expand/increase other coverages on the policy. The additional cost typically runs between $25 and $50 annually. Well worth the peace of mind. The key is to ask your agent or company what your best option is.
If you experience sewer or water damage at your home, SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is here to help 24x7. Call us at 402-408-0134.

Water Damage Tips - What To Do Until Help Arrives

12/19/2016 (Permalink)

A break in a small pipe like this can lead to a big problem. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest 402-408-0134. We are here to help 24x7.

Winter has officially arrived in Omaha and it has brought sub-zero temperatures to prove it.  The deep-freeze typically ushers in a high volume of frozen pipes, sometimes leaving property owners waiting days instead of hours for help to clean up their property.  


At times like these, we receive several calls seeking advice on what to do until help arrives.  The answer depends on whether the water is clean or contaminated.  Generally speaking, water from a supply line is considered clean, while water from drains is considered contaminated.  There are exceptions to this general guideline.  


If you are unsure of the classification of water affecting your property, consult your water damage experts at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134 and we will help as best we can.


CLEAN Water Damage Tips


DO:



  • Shut off the source of the water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.

  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

  • Remove as much excess water as possible my mopping and blotting.

  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

  • Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

  • Place aluminum foid or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

  • Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.

  • Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.

  • Hang draperies with coated hangars to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.

  • Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.


DO NOT:



  • Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.

  • Enter affected areas of electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water.  Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

  • Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.

  • Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.

  • Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.

  • Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.


CONTAMINATED Water Damage Tips


DO:



  • Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.

  • Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.


DO NOT:



  • Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.

  • Turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.

  • Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.

  • Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.


The most important thing to remember is that if you have any questions or require help; call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134.  We are here to help 24x7.