How to Managing Stress During Charleston's Storm Season

9/16/2023 (Permalink)

Charleston's picturesque beauty and rich history make it a captivating place to call home. Yet, alongside its charm, residents also experience the annual reality of storm season, which can trigger stress and anxiety. As clouds gather and winds intensify, it's essential to arm yourself with effective techniques for managing stress and maintaining a sense of calm. In this insightful guide, we'll explore expert strategies to help Charleston homeowners navigate storm season while prioritizing their well-being and peace of mind.

Stay Informed and Prepared

Staying informed about weather updates is crucial for minimizing stress during storm season. Regularly monitor reliable weather sources and mobile apps to track storm developments. Additionally, ensure you have a well-prepared emergency kit stocked with essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, and a comprehensive first aid kit. By taking these proactive steps, you can alleviate some of the uncertainty that often accompanies storm season.

Develop a Family Emergency Plan

Creating a comprehensive family emergency plan can provide significant reassurance during stormy times. Designate safe areas within your home where your family can seek shelter in case of severe weather. Establish a clear communication strategy, ensuring that everyone knows how to stay in touch, especially if power outages occur. This plan helps foster a sense of security and unity among family members, allowing you to navigate storm season with greater confidence.

Practice Stress-Relief Techniques

When the winds howl and the rain pours, practicing stress-relief techniques can be incredibly beneficial. Deep breathing exercises, for instance, can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm. Engaging in mindfulness and meditation can keep you grounded and centered amidst uncertainty. These techniques can provide a calming respite, allowing you to manage stress and maintain emotional balance during stormy weather.

Create a Comforting Safe Space

Designating a cozy and comforting safe space within your home can offer solace during storms. Furnish this area with comfortable seating, soft lighting, and calming décor to create an inviting ambiance. Stock the space with books, puzzles, or other relaxing activities that can help divert your attention from worries. Having a dedicated safe haven can serve as a retreat where you can find tranquility and reduce stress during storm season.

Maintain a Support Network

Staying connected with your support network is essential for managing stress during stormy times. Share your concerns and worries with friends, family, and neighbors. Expressing your feelings can provide a sense of relief and foster a sense of community. Be open to offering and receiving help from others, as this mutual support can alleviate stress and strengthen bonds within your community.

Limit Media Consumption

While staying informed is important, excessive media consumption can intensify stress levels. Set specific times to check weather updates and news to avoid constant exposure to distressing content. Engaging in positive distractions, such as hobbies or activities you enjoy, can help shift your focus away from stressors and create a healthier balance in managing storm-related information.

Focus on Preparedness, Not Panic

Shift your perspective from panic to preparedness by educating yourself about storm preparedness and safety measures. Learning about the steps you can take to protect your family and property empowers you to feel more in control. Repeat positive affirmations that emphasize your proactive efforts and reinforce your ability to weather any storm that comes your way. By focusing on preparedness, you can alleviate stress and approach storm season with a calmer mindset.

Charleston's storm season may bring challenges, but with these expert strategies, you can effectively manage stress and maintain a sense of calm amidst the tempest. By staying informed, developing a family emergency plan, practicing stress-relief techniques, and fostering a strong support network, you can navigate storm season with resilience and peace of mind. Remember, your well-being is paramount, and by embracing these techniques, you can weather any storm that comes your way in Charleston.

Safeguarding Your Business: The Benefits of Commercial Property Insurance

8/13/2023 (Permalink)

Commercial property insurance provides essential coverage that can help mitigate financial risks associated with damage, loss, and liability.

As a homeowner or property owner, you understand the importance of protecting your properties, but have you considered the need to safeguard your business as well? Commercial property insurance provides essential coverage that can help mitigate financial risks associated with damage, loss, and liability. In this article, we will explore the numerous benefits of commercial property insurance, giving you a better understanding of why it is an invaluable investment for your business.

Protection against Property Damage and Loss

Commercial property insurance offers coverage for property damage caused by perils such as fire, vandalism, natural disasters, and theft. Whether it's your building, equipment, inventory, or furnishings, this insurance provides financial protection to repair or replace these assets in the event of damage or loss. This coverage can help ensure a swift recovery for your business, minimizing downtime and allowing you to get back on track quickly.

Liability Coverage

One of the significant benefits of commercial property insurance is liability coverage. Accidents can happen, and if someone is injured on your business premises, you may be held responsible. Commercial property insurance can provide protection against liability claims, including medical expenses, legal fees, and potential settlements or judgments. This coverage offers peace of mind, knowing that you have financial protection in case of an unfortunate incident.

Business Interruption Coverage

When unexpected events cause a halt in your business operations, the financial impact can be significant. Business interruption coverage, included in many commercial property insurance policies, provides reimbursement for lost income and additional expenses during the period of downtime. This coverage can help you cover ongoing expenses like payroll, rent, or loan payments, allowing your business to survive and recover from the temporary setback.

Coverage for Business Assets in Transit

If your business involves transporting goods or equipment, having coverage for property in transit is crucial. Commercial property insurance can extend coverage to protect your assets while they are on the move. Whether it's via land, air, or sea, this coverage ensures that your valuable business assets are protected against theft, damage, or loss during transportation.

Flexibility and Customization

Commercial property insurance policies can be tailored to suit the specific needs of your business. Whether you operate a retail store, office, warehouse, or any other type of commercial property, you can select coverage options based on the risks unique to your industry and location. With the flexibility to add additional coverage or endorsements, you can ensure that your policy provides comprehensive protection for your specific business assets.

Commercial property insurance is an essential investment for business owners, offering a range of benefits to safeguard your business against property damage, liability claims, and interruptions. Choosing the right coverage can provide peace of mind, knowing that your business assets are protected under unforeseen circumstances. Evaluate your business needs, consult with insurance professionals, and select a policy that best suits your requirements. With commercial property insurance in place, you can focus on growing your business, knowing that you have a safety net to rely on when the unexpected occurs.

Understanding Insurance Coverage for Different Types of Floods

7/13/2023 (Permalink)

Flooding can cause extensive damage to your property, leading to significant financial burdens. Understanding what types of floods your insurance policy covers is crucial for ensuring adequate protection. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of floods and shed light on the insurance coverage available for each, empowering you to make informed decisions to safeguard your home or business.

Natural Floods

Most standard homeowner's insurance policies do not cover natural floods caused by external factors such as heavy rainfall, hurricanes, or overflowing rivers. To protect your property from natural floods, you need separate flood insurance. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers flood insurance coverage, and some private insurers also provide flood insurance policies. It is essential to evaluate your flood risk and consider purchasing flood insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Plumbing or Appliance-Related Floods

Insurance policies typically cover water damage resulting from sudden and accidental incidents, such as burst pipes or malfunctioning appliances. If a pipe bursts in your home or your dishwasher leaks, causing a flood, your homeowner's insurance may cover the resulting damage, including water removal, repairs, and damaged personal belongings. However, coverage may vary, so it's important to review your policy and understand the specific terms and limitations regarding plumbing or appliance-related floods.

Sewer or Drain Backup

Sewer or drain backups can cause significant water damage to your property. While standard homeowner's insurance policies may not automatically include coverage for sewer or drain backups, you can typically add a sewer backup endorsement to your policy for an additional premium. This endorsement provides coverage for the damage caused by water backup from sewer or drain systems, helping you mitigate the financial impact of such incidents.

Water Damage from Roof Leaks 

Roof leaks resulting from covered perils, such as storms or falling objects, may be covered under your homeowner's insurance policy. If the water damage is a direct result of a covered event, your insurance may pay for repairs to the roof and any resulting damage to the interior of your property. However, it is essential to review your policy and understand the specific terms, exclusions, and deductibles associated with roof leaks to determine the extent of coverage available.

Insurance coverage for floods depends on the type and cause of the flood. While natural floods require separate flood insurance, homeowner's insurance may cover water damage resulting from plumbing or appliance-related floods, sewer or drain backups, and roof leaks caused by covered perils. It is crucial to review your policies, assess your flood risk, and consider appropriate coverage to ensure comprehensive protection for your property.

Flooded Streets: Compelling Reasons to Avoid Driving Through Waterlogged Roads

7/10/2023 (Permalink)

Don't drive through flooded streets to reduce hazard to your vehicle and potential life threatening situations.

When heavy rain or a severe storm hits an area, it's not uncommon to see streets and roadways transformed into temporary waterways. While it may be tempting to navigate through flooded streets, doing so can be extremely hazardous. In this blog post, we will explore the compelling reasons why you should never drive through flooded streets. Understanding the risks associated with such actions is crucial for personal safety and preventing potentially life-threatening situations.

Unpredictable Water Depths

One of the most significant dangers of driving through flooded streets is the uncertainty of water depths. It is challenging to determine the actual depth of the water covering the road. What may appear shallow could quickly turn into a deeper, more treacherous section, leading to vehicle submersion or loss of control. It only takes a few inches of moving water to sweep away a car, putting your life and the lives of passengers at risk.

Hidden Hazards

Flooded streets often conceal numerous hazards beneath the water's surface. These hazards may include debris, downed power lines, open manholes, road damage, or even submerged vehicles. Driving through the water increases the likelihood of encountering these hidden dangers, which can cause accidents, vehicle damage, or severe injuries.

Loss of Traction and Control

Driving through waterlogged roads significantly reduces traction and vehicle control. Water creates a slippery surface, causing tires to lose grip and compromising your ability to steer, brake, or accelerate effectively. This loss of control can result in accidents, collisions with other vehicles or objects, or even hydroplaning, where the vehicle skids uncontrollably on the water's surface.

Mechanical and Electrical Damage

Driving through flooded streets poses a serious risk of damaging your vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems. Water can infiltrate the engine compartment, exhaust system, and other sensitive components, leading to expensive repairs or even rendering the vehicle inoperable. Furthermore, the water's corrosive nature can cause long-term damage to the vehicle's internal systems, reducing its lifespan and resale value.

Water Contamination

Floodwaters are often contaminated with various pollutants, including sewage, chemicals, and other harmful substances. Driving through flooded streets exposes you to these contaminants, which can pose significant health risks. Contact with contaminated water can lead to skin infections, respiratory issues, and other waterborne diseases.

Emergency Response Delays

Driving through flooded streets not only endangers your safety but also hampers emergency response efforts. Your vehicle may become stranded or require assistance, diverting resources that could be used to help those in immediate danger. It's crucial to prioritize your safety and allow emergency services to focus on critical situations during flooding events.

While the temptation to drive through flooded streets may arise during inclement weather, it is essential to recognize the significant risks involved. The unpredictable water depths, hidden hazards, loss of traction, and potential damage to both vehicles and health make driving through flooded streets an incredibly perilous decision. To prioritize personal safety and avoid life-threatening situations, it is strongly advised to never drive through flooded streets. Instead, wait for the water to recede or seek alternative routes to reach your destination. Remember, your safety and the safety of others should always be the top priority when faced with flooded roadways.

Beyond Bleach: Why it's Ineffective for Removing Mold

5/17/2023 (Permalink)

While bleach may seem like a quick and easy solution for cleaning & removing mold, it's important to know that bleach is not an effective method.

Mold growth can be a major problem for homeowners and businesses alike. When mold growth occurs, many people instinctively reach for bleach as a solution to remove the mold. While bleach may seem like a quick and easy fix, it's important to understand that bleach is not an effective method for cleaning or removing mold. In fact, using bleach to clean mold can actually make the problem worse. Here's why:

Bleach can't penetrate porous surfaces

Mold can grow on a variety of surfaces, including drywall, wood, and carpeting. However, many of these surfaces are porous, which means that mold can penetrate deep into the surface. Bleach is only effective at killing surface mold, which means that it can't penetrate deep into porous surfaces to kill the mold at its source. This means that even if you use bleach to clean the surface mold, the underlying mold growth will still be present and will continue to spread.

Bleach can actually feed mold growth

Another reason why bleach is not an effective method for cleaning or removing mold is that it can actually feed mold growth. Bleach is primarily made up of water, and when you apply bleach to a mold-infested area, the water can seep into porous surfaces and provide the moisture that mold needs to grow. This means that by using bleach, you may actually be making the problem worse by providing a favorable environment for mold growth.

Bleach is harmful to certain surfaces

Bleach is a harsh chemical that can cause damage to certain surfaces. For example, bleach can cause discoloration or damage to fabrics, upholstery, and carpets. Additionally, bleach can cause corrosion on metal surfaces, and can even cause damage to certain types of flooring. This means that using bleach to clean or remove mold can potentially cause damage to your property.

There are safer, more effective methods for mold remediation

Fortunately, there are safer, more effective methods for mold remediation than using bleach. Professional mold remediation companies like SERVPRO of South & West Charleston use specialized equipment and techniques to safely and effectively remove mold growth. These methods may include using air scrubbers to remove airborne mold spores, applying specialized antimicrobial treatments to kill mold at its source, and removing and replacing mold-infested materials.

In addition to using these specialized methods, professional mold remediation companies can also help identify and address the underlying causes of mold growth. This may include identifying and repairing sources of moisture, such as leaky pipes or damaged roofs, to prevent mold growth from recurring in the future.

While bleach may seem like a quick and easy solution for cleaning and removing mold, it's important to understand that bleach is not an effective method for mold remediation. Bleach can't penetrate deep into porous surfaces, can actually feed mold growth, and can be harmful to certain surfaces. Instead, it's best to leave mold remediation to the professionals, who have the specialized equipment and techniques to safely and effectively remove mold growth and prevent it from recurring in the future. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your home or business is safe and healthy for everyone who enters it.

How Fire Damage and Water Damage Are Connected

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

The damage caused by a fire is not limited to the flames themselves.

Fires can be devastating, causing significant damage to a building's structure and contents. However, the damage caused by a fire is not limited to the flames themselves. Water damage is a common side effect of firefighting efforts and can compound the destruction caused by the fire. In this blog, we will explore how fire damage and water damage are connected, and how the water used to fight fires can cause damage of its own. We will also discuss the steps that must be taken to address both types of damage to ensure the safety of the building's occupants and prevent further harm to the structure.

Fighting Fires with Water

When firefighters respond to a fire, they use large amounts of water to extinguish the flames. The water is often directed toward the source of the fire, but it can also spread throughout the building, causing water damage to areas that were not affected by the fire.

Damage from Water

The water used to put out the fire can also damage the building's infrastructure, including the walls, floors, and ceilings. Over time, the water can cause wood to warp, metal to rust, and electrical systems to short circuit. This damage can create significant safety hazards and can be expensive to repair.

Creating Toxic Slurry

Additionally, the water used to put out the fire can mix with any chemicals or other hazardous materials present, creating a toxic slurry that can further damage the building.

Mold Growth

In addition to the damage caused by the water itself, the moisture left behind can also lead to mold growth. Mold can cause a wide range of problems and it can also weaken the structural integrity of the building, making it unsafe to inhabit.

Cleaning Up the Damage

Cleaning up after a fire can be a complex process that requires specialized equipment and expertise. The water used to extinguish the fire must be removed, and the affected areas must be thoroughly dried to prevent mold growth. Any damaged materials, such as drywall or carpet, must be removed and replaced. The process can be time-consuming and expensive, but it is essential to prevent further damage to the building and ensure the safety of its occupants.

In conclusion, fire damage and water damage are often intertwined. When a fire occurs, the water used to put it out can cause significant damage to the building's infrastructure and create safety hazards. If you have experienced a fire, it is essential to work with a professional restoration company that can address both the fire and water damage to ensure your property is safe and habitable once again.

5 Reasons Your Toilet Is Leaking

3/10/2023 (Permalink)

There are many reasons why your toilet might be leaking—and we're here to help!

The toilet is one of the most basic parts of your house. It's where you go to do your business, so you probably don't think too much about it. However, if you have a toilet that's leaking, you'll want to repair it as soon as possible. Locating the cause of a leak can be frustrating and fixing the issue could be expensive. There are many reasons why your toilet might be leaking—and we're here to help!

1. Tank or Bowl is Cracked

If you think your toilet is leaking, check the tank and bowl for cracks. A crack in either of these areas can cause water to leak out of your toilet. Cracks are often caused by pressure from the water in the tank or bowl, so if you see any cracks around either area, it's time to replace it!

2. Malfunctioning Flapper

If you're having a problem with water leaking from your toilet, it could be due to a malfunctioning flapper. The flapper is the rubber piece that keeps the water in the toilet bowl and its part of the flush valve. When you flush, the flapper lifts to let water out of the tank so that everything goes down smoothly.

3. Loose or Worn Out Seal

There could also be a problem with the seal. The seal is that rubber ring around the base of your toilet that keeps water from leaking out when you flush or refill it. Over time, they can become worn out or torn by repeated use. A cracked or ripped seal will also allow water to flow into other areas of your bathroom where it doesn't belong and cause damage to those surfaces, such as mold growth.

4. Rusted or Cracked Pipes

Pipes can be damaged by freezing or overheating. They can also be damaged by corrosion from chemicals, physical damage to the pipe itself, or water pressure pushing on the pipe. If you see any signs of rust around or behind your toilet, call an expert plumber immediately.

5. Malfunctioning Connections

It is also possible that the connections between your tank and bowl are loose or corroded. A connection that is not properly sealed can cause water to seep out of them and into your bathroom floor, creating a mess in seconds.

Connections can become loose over time due to age or poor installation at initial construction stages, so it's important to check on all areas where these pipes meet each other regularly (at least once every six months).

If you're experiencing a leaky toilet, it's important that you address the problem as soon as possible. If left unchecked, a leaking toilet can lead to damaged flooring and walls as well as an increased water bill. If this is something that has happened in your home recently or ever before, we recommend calling an expert technician from a plumber who will come out and assess the situation.

Water Damage Restoration Cost

2/10/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, give the professionals a call!

Water damage can be a devastating experience for any homeowner. The cost of water damage cleanup varies greatly depending on several factors, including the source and extent of the damage, local labor rates and the type of materials affected. A professional restoration company will have experience restoring different kinds of surfaces and building materials, as well as determining the most effective dehumidification and drying methods for your property.

Water Damage can be a Devastating

Water damage can be a devastating experience for any homeowner. Water damage can cause excessive damage to your property. The cost of water damage restoration depends on several factors: how much water was involved, how much time it takes to dry out the area and remove damaged materials, how much structural repair is required after drying out the site, etc.

Hiring a Professional

When you're dealing with water damage, the last thing you want to do is skimp on the cost of repairs. You'll have to pay for professionals, and that can be expensive. Repairing your home or business will require a large amount of time and effort from people who are trained professionals.

The consequences for not hiring professional water damage restoration services can be severe, if you try to repair things yourself, there's a good chance that you won't get them right.

Two main Categories of Water Damage

The two main categories of water damage are clean water and gray or black water. Clean water is the clear liquid that falls from a broken pipe or toilet tank, while gray or black water refers to contaminated liquid containing some degree of contaminants such as bacteria or chemical waste.

Clean water

Clean water is water that comes from a sanitary source such as a burst pipe, toilet tank, or tub drain. Clean water is not as contaminated as gray or black water (described below) and can be restored by drying the area and replacing damaged materials.

Gray or Black Water

Gray Water: Gray water contains some amount of soaps and detergents that have been used in the house. In general, you should call us when you see any sign of gray water coming out of your pipes—for example, if you notice your toilet running constantly or notice faucets on full blast during periods where there’s no one using them for an extended period of time.

Black Water: Black water is defined as waste material from toilets (including urine), sinks (including vomit), kitchen drains (food scraps), bathtubs and showers, dishwashers and washing machines. We will come out to assess the damage once we receive notification from you about blackwater issues within your home or business property

If you're experiencing clean water damage, SERVPRO of South & West Charleston provides a 24-hour emergency response from the initial call to clean up. Our crawl assess the damage, removes all affected materials and equipment, and can restore your home or business back to preloss condition. If you need help with the cost of water removal services in Charleston, South Carolina contact us today!

How to Avoid Cooking Fires

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

It's important to remember that cooking fires are preventable.

Cooking fires are a real danger in the home. They can happen when you least expect it, so it’s important to be prepared for any situation. Cooking fires can be caused by grease or oil, foods that are left unattended on a stovetop or grill, and even towels and potholders that get too close to heat sources.

Never leave cooking food unattended. 

Ensure that you are always aware of what is going on in the kitchen, especially when it comes to stoves, ovens, and other appliances. 

If you have a small child who is not old enough to understand how dangerous hot or boiling liquids can be, then do not allow them to use these items at all. Make sure they cannot reach them or go near them without your supervision.

Keep towels and potholders away from heat sources.

A towel or potholder can post a risk if left too close to flames. So, keep towels and potholders away from heat sources. Don't use them to move hot pans, and don't use them to open the oven door.

Also, don't leave them on the stovetop as they can get caught in a flame or if something falls over onto the stove and starts a fire!

Do not let children handle hot foods or liquids.

If you have children, it's important to remember that they shouldn't be allowed to handle hot foods or liquids. This is because new research has shown that both children and adults have a higher risk of burns when handling these items.

Children should also not be allowed to play with matches or lighters — nor should they be permitted to use the stove or oven.

Do Not Move Pots or Pans

If a fire starts in a pot or pan on the stove, do not move them. Turn off the burner then cover it with a lid and never put water on it.

If you have to move the pan, use oven mitts or potholders because they are made to be used in high-heat situations.

Use an all-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher.

Do not use water or flour to put out a grease fire. A dry chemical fire extinguisher can be found in most kitchens and is relatively inexpensive to purchase at your local hardware store if yours does not have one available.

Stay Calm

Stay calm and get everyone out of the house. If you're alone, call 911 from a neighbor's phone or from outside your house as soon as possible. Do not go back inside until cleared to do so by emergency responders.

Install Smoke Detectors

A smoke detector should be installed on each floor of your home and inside every bedroom. 

• Install smoke alarms in your house. Smoke alarms are a must-have for any house. It is critical to have working smoke detectors installed throughout your home as well as in bedrooms to allow for an early warning when a fire starts.
• Test them regularly: The best way to ensure that your smoke alarm works are to test them regularly, especially after power outages or long stretches without use.

How to avoid cooking fires

There are a few simple things you can do to prevent cooking fires in your home, including:

• Keep towels and potholders away from heat sources, especially if they are made of materials such as terry cloth that may melt or catch fire easily.
• Do not leave the stove unattended.
• Do not let children handle hot foods or liquids.
• If a fire starts in a pan on the stove, do not move it; turn off the burner then cover the pan with a lid, and never put water on it!

It's important to remember that cooking fires are preventable. If your home or business suffers from a fire, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of South & West Charleston team a call today! Our team can take care of all your fire damage cleanup and restoration needs.

Preventing a Water Damage Disaster from Your Washing Machine

12/19/2022 (Permalink)

If your washing machine is more than 10 years old, it's a good idea to check the seal.

Preventing a Water Damage Disaster from Your Washing Machine

Water damage is the most common type of home damage. It's also one of the most expensive to repair. But there are ways you can prevent it before it happens. And one of those ways is by keeping your washing machine clean and in good working order—especially if you have an older model that doesn't have a moisture sensor or automatic water-level control. In this article we'll show you how to do just that!

A washing machine can cause a lot of damage in the home.

If you want to prevent any future water issues, here are some steps you can take:

Read your manual. Each washing machine has its own set of instructions that should be followed exactly as written by the manufacturer. If you have not used your machine before or do not know how to operate it properly, then follow these guidelines carefully! They will save both you time and money in the long run by preventing any potential expensive repairs down the line due out of ignorance on your part when using new appliances such as these without understanding how they work beforehand.

Faulty Drain Hose

If a piece of the drain hose breaks off or debris blocks the drain, then it could cause a flood. This can happen if the hose is old and brittle or if you don’t clean out the drain vent often enough.

To check your drain hose, remove it from the washing machine and look for cracks or holes in it. You can also check along its length for any signs of wear or damage (such as fraying). If there are any problems with the hose, you should replace it immediately.

Don’t Overload the Washer

To avoid flooding, it’s important that you don't overload your machine. The best rule of thumb is: if it doesn't fit into the tub with room for water around it (about 2 inches), then don't put it in there.

Check the Seal of Your Washer

If your washing machine is more than 10 years old, it's a good idea to check the seal. The seal's job is to prevent water from leaking out of the washer and into your home. If it's damaged, this can lead to flooding and other serious dangers in your home.

If you're not sure how to check for damage or need help replacing the seal on an older model of washing machine, contact a professional.

A Flood Clean-Up

If you have a flood, it’s important to call a professional for cleanup. A flooding washing machine is an emergency, and you want to make sure that your home is left in good condition as soon as possible. Here’s what you should do:

• Remove any wet materials from the area. This includes clothing, shoes and other personal items — anything that could be contaminated with standing water or sewage.
• Remove excess water from the area with a wet vac or sponge if necessary; make sure to always wear protective gear when cleaning up liquid spills (goggles and rubber gloves). Dampen dry portions of carpeting with fans if possible; this will help them dry more quickly than forcing them into areas where there may still be standing water after cleaning efforts have been made elsewhere around your house during this period.
• Clean up any remaining dirt/mud residue left behind.

If you follow these steps, you should be able to prevent a water damage disaster from your washing machine. The consequences of a flood due to a break in the seal can be severe and costly. If you already have experienced such an incident, it is important that you know how to move forward with professional guidance.

If you follow these steps, you should be able to prevent a water damage disaster from your washing machine. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with us, please give SERVPRO South & West Charleston a call!