The Hill Country Water Removal

8/31/2023 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration in The Rim

Have you ever come home to standing water?
Perhaps you just enjoyed a long 3 day weekend out of town only to come home to find water gushing out of your front door?

Unfortunately, these things happen, and often times can come at the most inopportune times.

Fortunately, SERVPRO of The Hill Country is here to help.  We like to assure people that even if you aren't prepared for a water event to happen SERVPRO always is!

We have the knowledge and experience to help in whatever your situation is, so, even if your kitchen is flooded don't be afraid, give us a call and we'll take care of it all!

Even if a water damage is a very stressful event for any person be assured that when we arrive you can sit back and relax, we have it covered.  Let us take care of the work and hardships so you don't have to.  We'll be happy to make it "Like it never even happened."

Water Damage and Wood Flooring

8/28/2023 (Permalink)

It doesn’t require a disaster of the scope of a spring flood or hurricane to damage a wood floor. Plumbing leaks, fire hoses and the upstairs neighbor’s overflowing tub might pose problems for porous wood floors and substructures. Whatever the cause, water causes warping, and can trigger mold and mildew growth that can ruin wood. Major flooding creates problems in foundations and walls that must be addressed, but the first step in mitigating the damage done by water to a building -- including its wood floors -- is to gently but quickly ventilate and dry materials.

SERVPRO® of The Hill Country uses commercial-grade machines that extract the water from the wood flooring with a powerful force.  If we are called immediately following a water damage event, there is a good possibility we can save your wood floors from buckling using the high-powered water extractors.  Don't hesitate to call right away.

Source: Homeguides Online

Reasons Your Refrigerator is Leaking Water

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

Maybe your water alarm alerted you, maybe you see a puddle or some dripping, or maybe you see some signs of water damage (corrosion, water stains, etc.). Once you’ve discovered a leak, consider the possible causes.

Blocked defroster. A blocked defroster can stop defrost-cycle water from draining properly. Try clearing out the small drain by pouring hot water into it. Remove any debris with a pipe cleaner.

Drain pan. Sometimes the drain pan itself can leak. Check for cracks.

Filter. Refrigerators with filters can leak if the filter is the wrong size or not installed properly.

Water line. This is potentially the most problematic. Refrigerators with ice makers or water dispensers have water lines running between the main water supply and the back of the fridge. Feel to see if the water line is wet or dripping. Cracked hoses and loose connections are often the culprit.

Refrigerator leaks can damage the flooring and cabinets in your kitchen.  If you experience a refrigerator leak, please contact us right away to dry out the area and help to prevent any mold growth.

Source: ER Plumbing Online

Three Types of Contaminated Water

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO of The Hill Country also cleans up sewage backups?

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. Our professionals at SERVPRO of The Hill Country have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Water damage can be classified by the three types of contaminated water. Our team of technicians will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Did you know that SERVPRO of The Hill Country also cleans up sewage backups?

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. Our professionals at SERVPRO of The Hill Country have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Water damage can be classified by the three types of contaminated water. Our team of technicians will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Hour Emergency Service

Water contaminated with sewage backup should be considered an emergency situation and dealt with as quickly as possible. Our technicians at SERVPRO of The Hill Country are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for any emergency situations that arise. We have been a trusted name in safely and properly restoring homes and businesses for almost 15 years! We are here to help!

Toilet Overflow or Sewer Backup?
Call our office today (210) 361-3235

Slow, Undetected Water Leaks in Homes in The Hill Country

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a water leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.

It's not uncommon for us to get a call from a homeowner who has recently found mold behind their dishwasher or behind their sink due to a slow leak in a pipe in their walls. It's always a good idea to take care of any water leak as soon as possible in order to prevent mold from forming in addition to the water damage.  To learn more about water damage restoration from SERVPRO of The Hill Country, click here.

How Quickly Does Mold Grow After Water Damage

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Maybe you had a water leak from a plumbing problem or from a leaky refrigerator. Maybe we had a major storm, hurricane, or tornado sweep through the San Antonio area. Either way, now your home has water damage. Depending on how severe the water damage, you are probably asking yourself, “Should I clean up the water damage myself or hire a professional?”.  The following are a couple things to consider. First, hopefully, the water damage will be covered by your insurance company. SERVPRO of The Hill Country works with all insurance companies in the area and knows what each company is looking for (this will make things easier on you). Second, if the area is not properly and completely dried out, even in the areas you cannot see, the structure will more than likely suffer secondary damage. What is secondary damage? Mold growing in your home is known as secondary damage after a water damage event. Mold needs moister to grown and it can grow within 24-48 hours.  Time is a factor after a water damage. If mold is already growing in your home after a water damage, SERVPRO of The Hill Country can remediate that as well. We are here to help. Give us a call today!

The Hill Country Water Removal Experts

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Have you ever came home to standing water?
Perhaps you just enjoyed a long 3 day weekend out of town only to come home to find water on your tile, carpet, or hardwood?

Unfortunately, these things happen, and often times can arrive at the most inopportune times.

Fortunately, SERVPRO of The Hill Country is here to help.  We like to assure people that even if you aren't prepared for a water event to happen SERVPRO always is!

We have the knowledge and experience to help with whatever your situation is, so, even if your kitchen is flooded don't be afraid, give us a call and we'll take care of it all!

Let us take care of the work and hardships so you don't have to.  We'll be happy to make it "Like it never even happened."

What Secondary Damage can occur after water damage in your home or commercial building?

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

After water leaks or flood damage, if not properly dried and treated, a home or business can develop mold from the moisture left on: wood, tile, carpeting, windows, concrete, and/or other materials/items that were affected by the water.  SERVPRO of The Hill Country strives to prevent secondary damage every time we remediate water damage. Building material and flooring are dried and treated to prevent mold and other contaminates using specialized equipment and cleaning products.

If water damage is not properly treated, the perfect environment is created for mold spores to grow in your home and to contaminate the air that is breathed.

Should you ever suffer water damage due to: a water heater leak, sink overflow, fire, refrigerator leak, excessive rain, storm damage, leaky roof, flood damage, or any other reason water has invaded your home or business, please know that SERVPRO of The Hill Country is here to help.  Faster to Any Disaster and Here to Help.

The Water Damage Timeline

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

How long do I have before mold forms after a flood?

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Be sure to call SERVPRO of The Hill Country right away if you encounter a water damage to your home or business. Here to Help.

Outside Chores to do in order to Prevent Water Damage

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

1. Be careful where you plant

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

2. Clean out roof gutters

You know it’s on your to-do list anyway, so if you can, take a safe climb up to your roof next Sunday and check out your gutters. If you’re seeing lots of leaves, birds’ nests, sticks, and whatnot up there, your gutters may not be doing the job you hired them for. And on a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some serious water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. And if your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check them.

Water Damage to Wood Flooring

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

It doesn’t require a disaster of the scope of a spring flood or hurricane to damage a wood floor. Plumbing leaks, fire hoses and the upstairs neighbor’s overflowing tub might pose problems for porous wood floors and substructures. Whatever the cause, water causes warping, and can trigger mold and mildew growth that can ruin wood. Major flooding creates problems in foundations and walls that must be addressed, but the first step in mitigating the damage done by water to a building -- including its wood floors -- is to gently but quickly ventilate and dry materials.

SERVPRO® of The Hill Country uses commercial-grade machines that extract the water from the wood flooring with a powerful force.  If we are called immediately following a water damage event, there is a good possibility we can save your wood floors from buckling using the high-powered water extractors.  Don't hesitate to call right away.

Source: Homeguides Online

Hot Water Heater Leak Causes Damage in San Antonio Kitchen

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Hill Country responded to an emergency water damage call in this San Antonio home. Summer had just begun, and mom along with her two children were enjoying the slower pace of life. The three had spent the morning in their pool and worked up quite the appetite. Mom decided to step inside to get food started for lunch while the kids stayed outside and dried off. Mom opened the backdoor and there in front of her was a flood in her kitchen and a hole in her ceiling. She shut off the water, called her children in to help, and then called us -- SERVPRO of The Hill Country to mitigate the rest of the water damage. The woman had discovered that her hot water heater was to blame for this disaster. The hot water heater, which was located in the attic above the kitchen, had sprung a leak. As more and more water was absorbed by the drywall, water began to pool and the kitchen ceiling started to bow. Eventually the ceiling couldn’t hold the weight of the water any longer and the water flooded the kitchen. Our technicians cleaned up the ceiling debris and extracted the standing water. They also cut and removed additional drywall that had been affected by water damage. It is important to get rid of drywall that has gotten wet as soon as possible because when it gets wet, it loses its structural integrity, and it will help minimize the potential of mold growth. After several days of drying, the moisture levels had met our dryness goal. Another home back to normal after experiencing a water damage emergency. With the help of our team at SERVPRO of The Hill Country, the disaster was "Like it never even happened."

Air Conditioner Causes Water Damage to Ceiling

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

The homeowner of a house in San Antonio, Texas noticed round, yellowish, water spots had appeared on the ceiling of his master bedroom. Realizing that the cause of the water damage was likely the air conditioner located in the attic above the room, he climbed up to take a look. Sure enough, that was the culprit of the damage. He called out an HVAC repair company to fix the problem with the air conditioner, and then he called us at SERVPRO® of The Hill Country to mitigate the water damage done to the floor of the attic and the ceiling of the bedroom. Our technicians removed all affected drywall, and set up several of our air movers to dry out the wet areas. After a few days of drying and daily moisture checks, the moisture levels were low and back to normal, so our crew pulled the equipment and packed up. The floor of the attic and ceiling of the bedroom were repaired, and it was like this water disaster never even happened! If you feel your AC unit has leaked and caused water damage to your home, call us today.

Keeping Gutters Clear to Prevent Water Damage

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Keeping Gutters Clear to Prevent Water Damage

Ideally, gutters clear the water from your roof and move it safely away from your home. Healthy gutters help prevent leaky roofs, water damage to the attic, and water coming in through your home’s foundation.

Twice a year, it is very important to clear your home’s gutters. Leaves, twigs, mud, nests, and other debris can clog the gutters and restrict the water flow.  When water has nowhere to go, it pools and can seep into areas it should not, which can cause water damage to your home. If you do not feel you can safely perform the job yourself, please hire out the job to a professional.

If your home has suffered water damage, please call SERVPRO of The Hill Country today to remove the water and dry out the area in order to prevent further damage.

What to Do When your Toilet Overflows

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

Overflowing Toilet – What to Do

An overflowing toilet is a problem everyone will likely deal with at some point. When water overflows from the bowl, chances are the culprit is a clogged toilet drain—usually an easy fix with some basic tools.

First, turn off the toilet’s water supply, on the wall behind the toilet. If you can’t find the water supply to stop the toilet overflowing, take the top off the tank and lift the float ball or cup high enough to stop the water from running. If that does not work, the shut off valve for the water supply to the house is generally located near the water heater.

Should overflow continue once the main water supply is off, you’re dealing with sewage backup, a serious situation due to the hazardous nature of the sewage water. If you are on a municipal septic system, you may need to call the city. If you have a septic tank, you’ll need a plumbing company that can flush out your system.

 Call SERVPRO of The Hill Country today if you've suffered water damage due to an overflowed toilet. (830) 995-4102

Why is My Refrigerator Leaking Water?

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

Why is My Refrigerator Leaking Water?

If your refrigerator is leaking water and causing water damage to your flooring it’s usually because if one of two reasons.

Reason #1 your fridge is leaking

A blocked defrost drain is one of the most common causes of water leakage. This happens when food particles or other debris clogs up the drain hose, which can lead to ice buildup and, eventually, water leaking out of the freezer and refrigerator.

Fix: First, try flushing the drain from inside the freezer with warm water, using a turkey baster or a small funnel. You can also try using a pipe cleaner or a straightened coat hanger to forcibly remove the clog. If this doesn't fix the problem you may need to manually remove the debris that is clogging the check valve at the end of the drain hose.

Reason #2 your fridge is leaking

From time to time, a clogged or frozen water supply line will cause water to puddle beneath the refrigerator. It will also affect ice production from the ice maker and slow or stop water flow from the dispenser.

Fix: First, unplug the refrigerator and locate the shut-off valve, typically underneath the sink, behind the refrigerator, or below the refrigerator in the basement. Make sure this valve is closed, and look for any leaks, kinks, or clogs in the plastic supply line.

Source: CNET online

Never pour grease down your sink

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Never pour grease down your sink

You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious damage and blockage.

Some people use detergent to break up grease before pouring it down the drain…and that may help sometimes. But there’s no guarantee that it’ll keep the grease from sticking to your pipes, so why take the risk?

The safest thing to do is just to pour your grease in an empty can, and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. Done and done.

Pipe leaks from clogged pipes can cause water damage to your home as well as mold damage if the water damage is not soon addressed.

Source: Farmers Insurance

If Your Pipes Clog, use a drain snake instead of unclogging chemicals

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

If your pipes clog, use a drain snake instead of unclogging chemicals

No matter how crazy clean you are, from your shower to your kitchen sink, clogs are going to happen. And chances are at some point in your life you’ve used one of those powerful chemical drain cleaners to get things moving again. But as convenient as they may be, most folks don’t realize those caustic chemicals are also eating away at their pipes. If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is a good solution to clear away clogs. They’re pretty inexpensive, you can get them at your local hardware store, and they can cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes.

Source: www.farmers.com

Leaky Dishwasher Wrecked Havoc on Wood Floors

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

The homeowner of this Bandera home was at home doing housework. Her last task was to load up the dishwasher and run it. So she did just that. She made herself a quick lunch and went into the living room to enjoy it and a little well-earned time in front of the TV and a quick nap.

When she woke up, she went to return her dishes to the kitchen and she saw a massive puddle taking over her kitchen floor. Her precious wood floor. By this time, the dishwasher had already run its full cycle. She set up towels to help retain the water and prevent it from damaging neighboring rooms. Then she called us, SERVPRO of The Hill Country, to handle the existing damage. By the time our technicians arrived on scene, the wood floors had already started warping and, unfortunately, we were unable to save them. Time is of the essence when it comes to mitigating water damage!

If you experience any type of water damage, SERVPRO of The Hill Country is here to help! We have been proudly helping the community since 2002!

Water Damage at Kerrville, TX Retail Store

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

Another pleased customer for SERVPRO of The Hill Country!

Back in April, the Texas Hill Country definitely experienced those "April Showers". Most storms are short lived, but when they roll in, one can expect bouts of heavy rain and strong winds. 

When SERVPRO of The Hill Country was called out to this cell phone retail store in Kerrville, Texas, it had recently stormed. The rain was hitting the front door and began seeping through the bottom seal of the door. SERVPRO was called immediately and our highly-trained team of technicians were able to get on the scene fast to reduce the amount of water damage done to this commercial building. Our professionals set up air movers and in a few short days, the carpet around the door was dry and equipment was ready to be removed. 

Flooding in The Hill Country

6/3/2017 (Permalink)

Has your Texas home been affected by flood waters?

Did you know that flooding is the most common natural disaster? Here in Texas, we are no stranger to floods. The sky grows dark; the ominous clouds roll in. You see the wind tousle the branches in the trees. The lightning flashes, thunder rumbles, and the next thing you know you hear the rain hit the roof of the house. You listen to the rain get heavier and heavier. You watch the water accumulate across your property and then, what seems like a split second, the water in now intruding into your home. Take the measures to prevent additional damage to your home or office, then call SERVPRO of The Hill Country to properly take care of the damage that has already been done. We have a team of highly-trained professionals who have been helping us serve our community for almost 15 years! Let us help make it "Like it never even happened."

If your Hill Country home or commercial building is affected by a flood, give us a call day or night! SERVPRO of The Hill Country is always "Here To Help"! (830) 995-4102

Flooding Can Occur In Your Hill Country Home When You Least Expect It

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

If this is your reality, call SERVPRO of The Hill Country! We are here to help mitigate flooding and water damage! (830) 995-4102

Although it is something that none of us ever want to deal with, flooding will happen at one point or another in your home. Flooding can occur many different ways in your Hill Country home -- a malfunctioning appliance, a pipe that burst, a family member who walked away from a filling bath tub for a little too long. When your Hill Country home experiences water damage, immediate action is crucial in minimizing the extent of the damage done to your property. SERVPRO of The Hill Country responds quickly; we make it a priority to get your life back to normal as soon as possible. Our highly-trained professionals use advanced equipment and techniques to remove water efficiently. SERVPRO of The Hill Country will make it "Like it never even happened!"

If your home experiences flooding or water damage, don't delay - Call SERVPRO of The Hill Country! We service most areas of San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country, including Boerne, Frederickburg, Kerrville, and Bandera.

(830) 995-4102

Hill Country Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

9/12/2016 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Hill Country basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 830-995-4102

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of The Hill Country and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 830-995-4102

Hill Country 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/8/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Hill Country is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 830-995-4102 

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of The Hill Country has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of The Hill Country

SERVPRO of The Hill Country 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.

Customer Satisfaction is Our Top Priority in the Hill Country

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

We recently performed a water remediation at a home in Boerne for Kathy W.  She kindly wrote this review and we wanted to share it with all of our potential and current customers:

SERVPRO of the Hill Country was fabulous! They were always timely and very professional; Patricio was very helpful in guiding us what we needed to do; Garrett and Byron were efficient and focused on making sure everything was done correctly. Sherese in the office graciously helped us with paperwork and payment. We could not be any happier with the professionalism and quality of work that was performed. Ours was a water leak and damage; in those situations, one does not always think clearly to make decisions but SERVPRO of The Hill Country was a bright light in a cloudy time. A great big thank you to the entire team!- Kathy W., Boerne, Texas

SERVPRO of The Hill Country responds faster to any flood disaster in Kerrville, TX

4/27/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Hill Country is here for all of your flood damage needs

 When the flood waters rise ...so do we.

In the last few weeks, many Hill Country residents experienced flood damage and SERVPRO of The Hill Country was ready and able to help.  As the rainy season approaches we wanted to make sure that the Hill Country community is prepared for any floods that may happen with some tips.

Before the Flood:

Tips from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) for Preparing Your Home or Business for a Flood.

• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.

• Disconnect electrical appliances.

• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water. Even six inches of moving water can make you fall.

During the Flood:

• Listen for news reports to learn if the community’s water supply is safe to drink.

• Avoid floodwaters. Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged.

• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.

• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

After the Flood:

Flooding is still possible. Listen to weather radio, commercial radio, or TV for information.

Know the terms:

Flood Watch:

 Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to weather radio, commercial radio, or TV for information.

Flash Flood Watch:

 Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.

Flood Warning:

 A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.

Ask SERVPRO of The Hill Country about setting your business up with an Emergency Response Profile.

Hill Country, TX Most water damage occurs from the water you don't see. SERVPRO of The Hill Country is ready to help!

4/4/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Hill Country is here to help with all of your water damage restoration needs

 Oftentimes homeowners will try to remove water themselves, but with any leak it's the water you don't see that causes the most damage.  Your home should be your place of rest.  But when water begins leaking- even small leaks in areas you can't see- your home could quickly become a source of stress.  The possibility of harmful mold, rot and unseen damage may affect the value of your home and the health of your loved ones. There are several areas of the home that can be affected by a small water leak that you cannot see.  These areas include the sheathing, wall studs, drywall, insulation, interior area, carpet, baseboard, carpet padding, bottom wall plate, sub-floor, floor joist, sill plate, and even foundation. 

SERVPRO of The Hill Country professionals understand how disruptive water damages can be for your entire family and will help ensure the water is identified, regardless of where it hides.  That's why we offer 24-hour emergency responses by trained, uniformed restoration professionals.  With top-of-the-line equipment and time-tested cleanup and restoration techniques. SERVPRO of The Hill Country professionals have the expertise to help make your house feel like home again.

After all, when it comes to your home and your family, even small disasters can feel like huge problems. So if a water damage occurs in your home, just call SERVPRO of The Hill Country at (210) 267-2159.  We are ready to help.

SERVPRO of The Hill Country Professionals are trained to safely clean and restore your home, utilizing the following procedures:

Northwest San Antonio residents know that SERVPRO of The Hill Country professionals have the training and equipment needed to detect moisture levels and validate drying.

What should I do if I experience a water damage at my home or office?

3/30/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Hill Country is here for all of your water damage restoration needs

1.     SAFETY: SERVPRO of The Hill Country’s number one priority and what you should do first

                a.      Ensure that it is safe to enter into the premises.

                b.      Electricity is one of the most dangerous situations in regards to water. An electricity check should be made to ensure that the water is not in direct contact with any electricity. DO NOT enter the premises until this is resolved.

                c.       Slip/ fall dangers: remember that water makes floor surfaces incredibly slippery, so ensure that you are wearing the proper shoes to prevent slips

               d. Use caution when trying to move items that are saturated with water as they will be heavier than usual

    2.    Turn off the water source- as water is allowed to continue running it is continuing to damage your home or office

    3.    Contact SERVPRO of The Hill Country at (830) 995-4102- the faster we arrive, the faster we can make it like “it never even happened”

    4.      Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.

    5.      Wipe excess water from wood furniture

    6.      Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting

    7.      Turn the air conditioner off

    8.      Remove colored rugs and/or drapery from wet carpeting

    9.      Gather loose items from the floors

    10.  Remove art objects to a safe, dry place

It is our hope that you never have to use these tips, but it is always better to be prepared. If you have any questions please feel free to call us at (830) 995-4102.

What can SERVPRO of The Hill Country do for those who live in the greater Hill Country, TX area?

3/28/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Hill Country is always ready for whatever happens

 Oftentimes we are asked how exactly can we help you?  For the fully detailed explanation, please head to our website at: http://www.SERVPROthehillcountry.com/

Here are some answers to commonly posed questions:

We can help with your water event; but what is a water event anyways? 

  A water event is any time that water is in a place within your house that it is not supposed to be.  Some common examples include: dishwasher overflow, pipe burst, flood water, roof leak, washing machine overflow, toilet overflow, washing machine line break, AC leak, refrigerator/ freezer leak, etc.  If you see water that is not supposed to be there, give us a call at (830) 995-4102.

So, what exactly will you do for my water event?

  We will have certified, background cleared professionals that come out to scope (inspect) your home within four hours of your call, day or night, to determine where the water has caused damage.

But won't this inspection cause further damage?

  We use non-invasive moisture meters and a thermal imaging camera to find the hidden water and hidden damage, so no additional damage is caused to your home.

Well, then what will you actually do?

  We will then, per IICRC guidelines (our governing body) and our 46 years of experience as the industry leading water mitigation company, dry your home to make it "like it never even happened."  We work with all insurances companies and will make sure that both you and your insurance know what is going on to help put your mind at ease.

I didn't have a water event, so how else can you help me?

  We also help with fire damages and smoke damages.  A fire is a traumatic event in anyone's life and we work with you to get your life back to normal as soon as possible.  We will come into your home to perform a scope (inspection) of your home and let you know what needs to be done within four hours of your initial call.  At a minimum, fires typically require soot removal/ cleaning of all affected areas and deodorization.  We make sure that everything is done completely so that the trauma is as short lived as possible. 

What else do you do?  I have never experienced a water event or a fire at my house, so why should I call you?

  We also do:

•  Air duct cleaning
• Bio-hazard clean-up
• Crime scene clean-up
• Sewage clean-up

What areas do you service?

   On a day to day basis we work primarily within 50 miles of Comfort, TX

When are you available?

  We have someone available for water and fire damages twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Understanding Water Types in Kerrville Texas

3/4/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Hill Country drying a water damaged home in Boerne, TX

When your home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup.  SERVPRO of The Hill Country has technicians that have undergone IICRC training on water damage including water types.  There are three types of water.  Clean water is from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean.  The term gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water.  Clean water becomes gray water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous.  Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more.  Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster.  Black water should always be handled by trained professionals.  When you have a water damage, don't leave your property to chance.  Call SERVPRO of The Hill Country Professionals at (830) 995-4102. 

Hill Country Residents: do you know what to do if you experience water damage in your home or office?

5/6/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the Hill Country is always here to help on any size water damage

SERVPRO of the Hill Country would like to help the Hill Country residents and business owners with helpful tips for dealing with a water damage.

If you have water damage from clean water:

DO:

• Shut off the source of 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 by 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 foil 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 hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
• Contact SERVPRO of the Hill Country

DON'T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if 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 carptes or floors to cause staining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall0-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TV's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

If you have water damage from contaminated water:

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.
• Contact SERVPRO of the Hill Country

Don't:

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

SERVPRO of the Hill Country knows how to help with water damage and is a phone call away at 830-995-4102