Navigating Flash Floods in Wichita, KS

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

Understanding the dynamics of flash floods is pivotal for protecting your home and loved ones.

Wichita, KS, with its diverse weather patterns, is not immune to the threat of flash floods. These sudden and intense floods can wreak havoc on properties, causing extensive damage and disruptions. To ensure the safety of your home and property, it's crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of flash floods and implement protective measures. In this blog, we'll delve into the dynamics of flash floods and offer practical insights for safeguarding your property against their potential impact.

The Nature of Flash Floods in Wichita

Flash floods occur when heavy rainfall overwhelms the capacity of drainage systems, causing rapid and intense flooding. In Wichita, the risk of flash floods is heightened due to its flat terrain and frequent thunderstorms. These floods can occur with little warning, making preparedness a necessity for homeowners and property owners.

Recognize High-Risk Areas

Identify the flood-prone areas on your property. Low-lying regions, areas near creeks, and places with poor drainage are particularly vulnerable. Understanding these high-risk zones helps you plan and implement protective measures effectively.

Maintain and Clear Drainage Systems

Regularly clean and maintain gutters, downspouts, and storm drains. Clear debris that could obstruct water flow and prevent excess water from pooling around your property. Well-maintained drainage systems are crucial for diverting water away from your home's foundation.

Elevate Electrical Systems and Utilities

Elevate electrical panels, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and other utilities above potential flood levels. This prevents damage to essential systems and minimizes the risk of electrical hazards during a flood.

Opt for Flood-Resistant Building Materials

When building or renovating, consider using flood-resistant materials for flooring, walls, and foundations. These materials are designed to withstand water exposure and minimize damage. Elevating the living spaces above the potential flood level is also a viable option.

Create Proper Grading

Proper grading of your property involves shaping the land to direct water away from your home. The land should slope downward and away from your foundation to prevent water accumulation. Consult with landscaping professionals for effective grading solutions.

Install Sump Pumps

Sump pumps are invaluable during flash floods. Install a sump pump with a battery backup in your basement or crawl space to swiftly remove excess water and prevent flooding. Regularly test the pump to ensure it's functioning correctly.

Secure Valuables and Important Documents

Elevate valuable items and important documents to higher shelves or storage areas. Consider using waterproof containers to protect items from water damage during a flash flood.

Understanding the dynamics of flash floods and their impact on properties in Wichita, KS, is pivotal for safeguarding your home and loved ones. By recognizing high-risk areas, maintaining drainage systems, elevating utilities, using flood-resistant materials, creating proper grading, installing sump pumps, and securing valuables, you can significantly minimize the potential damage caused by flash floods. Taking proactive measures ensures that your property remains resilient in the face of unexpected weather challenges.

Illuminate Your Space Safely: A Guide to Using Candles in Your Home

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Candle safety is a priority. Practice safety when burning candles for any occasion.

Candles can create a warm and cozy ambiance in your home, but it's important to use them safely to prevent accidents and fires. From practicing proper candle placement to extinguishing them correctly, there are various steps you can take to enjoy the beauty of candlelight while ensuring the safety of your home and loved ones. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to safely use candles in your home.

Choose the Right Candles

Opt for candles with a sturdy base and non-combustible containers or holders. Ensure the candle is the appropriate size for the holder and is made from high-quality materials. Avoid candles with loose wicks or damaged containers.

Always place candles on a stable and heat-resistant surface, away from any flammable materials such as curtains, paper, or furniture. Maintain a minimum distance of at least one foot between a candle and any other object.

Safety of the Wick

Before lighting a candle, trim the wick to a length of about ¼ inch. A long or curled wick can cause uneven burning and increase the risk of the flame becoming too large or flickering uncontrollably.

Never leave a candle unattended. Always stay in the same room as a burning candle and keep it within your line of sight. Never leave the house or go to bed with a candle still lit. Accidents can happen when candles are left unattended, and the consequences can be catastrophic. Ensure that candles are placed in areas where there are no drafts or gusts of wind that can cause the flame to flicker or spread. Air currents can lead to an uneven burn and increase the likelihood of the flame coming into contact with nearby flammable objects.

Use Candle Snuffers or Tools for Extinguishing

Avoid blowing out candles, as this can cause hot wax or embers to scatter. Instead, use a snuffer or a candle extinguishing tool to smother the flame safely. Hold the snuffer above the flame and gently press down until the flame is extinguished. This method helps minimize the risk of accidental fires or burns. Place candles in areas where they are not accessible to children or pets. Consider using candle holders with covers or placing candles on high shelves or surfaces that cannot be easily reached.

Store Candles Properly

When not in use, store candles in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps prevent melting or warping, which can lead to safety hazards. Avoid burning candles for long periods. Pay attention to the recommended burn time listed on the candle's packaging. Excessive burning can cause the wick to become unstable and increase the risk of a fire hazard.

If you have concerns about open flames or are unable to closely monitor burning candles, consider using flameless alternatives such as LED candles or battery-operated tea lights. These provide a similar ambiance without the risk of fire.

By following these safety guidelines, you can enjoy the cozy glow and calming fragrance of candles in your home while ensuring the safety of your living space. Always remember that candle safety is a top priority, and never underestimate the potential risks associated with improper candle usage. Stay vigilant, practice safe habits, and create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home with peace of mind.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Replace a Toilet with Confidence

7/24/2023 (Permalink)

Removing an old toilet and replacing with a new can be a task, use this helpful blog to install a toilet properly.

Replacing a toilet may seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance and a bit of DIY spirit, it can be a manageable project that saves you money and gives your bathroom a fresh look. Whether you're upgrading to a more efficient model or addressing a broken or outdated toilet, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of replacing a toilet with confidence. So, roll up your sleeves and let's get started!

Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before diving into the replacement process, make sure you have all the tools and materials you'll need. This typically includes a new toilet, wax ring, toilet bolts, adjustable wrench, plunger, sponge or towels, putty knife, and a bucket.

Shut Off the Water and Drain the Tank

Locate the shut-off valve near the base of the toilet and turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply. Flush the toilet to drain the tank and remove as much water as possible. Use a plunger or sponge to remove any remaining water from the tank and bowl. Place towels or a bucket nearby to catch any drips during the process.

Disconnect the Water Supply Line

Using an adjustable wrench, loosen and disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the toilet tank. Have a towel handy to catch any residual water that may drip out. Set the supply line aside.

Remove the Toilet

Next, remove the nuts or bolts securing the toilet to the floor. These are typically located at the base of the toilet. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove them. Gently rock the toilet back and forth to break the seal created by the wax ring. Once loose, lift the toilet straight up and place it on the towels or in a bucket.

Prepare the Area for Installation

With the old toilet removed, clean the area around the flange and remove any old wax residue. Inspect the flange for damage or cracks. If necessary, repair or replace the flange before proceeding.

Install the Wax Ring and Toilet Bolts

Place a new wax ring on the flange, ensuring it is centered and properly aligned. Insert the toilet bolts into the slots on the flange. These bolts will hold the new toilet in place.

Position and Install the New Toilet

Carefully lower the new toilet onto the wax ring and align it with the bolts. Apply gentle pressure to compress the wax ring and create a watertight seal. Once aligned, press the toilet firmly onto the floor to secure it in place.

Secure the Toilet and Reconnect the Water Supply Line

Using the nuts or bolts provided with the new toilet, secure it to the floor by tightening them with an adjustable wrench. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the toilet or the flange. Reconnect the water supply line to the fill valve on the bottom of the toilet tank, ensuring it is tightened securely.

Test for Leaks and Reconnect the Water Supply

Slowly turn on the water supply by rotating the shut-off valve counterclockwise. Allow the tank to fill and check for any leaks around the connections and base of the toilet. If necessary, make adjustments to eliminate any leaks.

Once you've confirmed that there are no leaks, give the toilet a test flush to ensure proper operation. Clean up any excess water or residue and dispose of the old toilet following local regulations. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can confidently replace a toilet and give your bathroom a functional and aesthetic upgrade. Remember to gather the necessary tools and materials, shut off the water supply, disconnect the water supply line, remove the old toilet.

Storm Preparedness: A Guide to Inspecting Your Building's Exterior

7/10/2023 (Permalink)

Inspecting your buildings exterior is vital for storm preparedness.

When it comes to storm preparedness, inspecting and assessing your building's exterior is a critical step in ensuring its resilience against severe weather conditions. By identifying vulnerabilities and addressing potential issues before a storm strikes, you can minimize damage and better protect your property and its occupants. In this blog, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on inspecting your building's exterior to enhance its storm readiness.

Roof Inspection

Inspect the roof for any loose, cracked, or missing shingles. Replace or repair them promptly to prevent leaks and water damage during heavy rainfall. Ensure that flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is intact and properly sealed. Repair or replace damaged flashing and reapply sealants as needed to prevent water infiltration.

Gutters and Downspouts

Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow during heavy rains. Clogged gutters can lead to overflowing water, causing damage to the building's foundation and exterior walls. Inspect gutters and downspouts for loose or damaged sections. Reinforce connections and repair any leaks or cracks to prevent water from seeping into the building.

Windows and Doors

Check for Proper Sealing: Inspect windows and doors for gaps or cracks that may allow water or wind to enter. Caulk or weatherstrip as necessary to maintain a tight seal and improve energy efficiency. Strengthen windows and doors in areas prone to strong winds or flying debris by installing impact-resistant glass or storm shutters.

Siding and Exterior Walls

Look for signs of damage. Inspect siding and exterior walls for cracks, holes, or loose panels. Repair or replace damaged sections to maintain the building's structural integrity and prevent water penetration.

Evaluate Sturdiness

Assess the stability of any outdoor structures, such as fences, awnings, or sheds. Reinforce or secure them properly to prevent damage from high winds.

Trees and Landscaping

Prune tree branches that are close to the building, ensuring a safe distance to prevent potential damage during storms. Remove Dead or Weak Trees. Identify and remove any dead or weakened trees that could pose a risk to the building or nearby structures during strong winds.

Exterior Utilities

Inspect and Secure HVAC Units, ensure that HVAC units, rooftop equipment, or other exterior utilities are securely fastened and protected against high winds. 

Document and Maintain. Check the stability of exterior light fixtures, signage, antennas, or satellite dishes. Reinforce their attachments to prevent damage or dislodging. Document the building's exterior, take photographs or videos of the building's exterior, focusing on vulnerable areas and potential risks. This documentation can be helpful for insurance claims and assessing storm-related damages.

Regular Maintenance

Establish a routine maintenance schedule for inspecting the building's exterior, and address any issues promptly. Regular upkeep can prevent minor problems from escalating during a storm.

Inspecting your building's exterior is a vital component of storm preparedness. By conducting a thorough inspection, identifying vulnerabilities, and addressing potential issues, you can enhance the resilience of your property against severe weather conditions. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and reinforcing critical areas will help safeguard your building and its occupants during storms. Remember, a proactive approach to inspecting and maintaining the exterior is key to mitigating damage and ensuring the safety of your property.

Protecting Your Business and Its Future: The Importance of Business Interruption Insurance

4/28/2023 (Permalink)

It is safe to consider business insurance to ensure your business is protected.

As a business owner, the thought of an unexpected event disrupting your operations is a nightmare. Whether it's a natural disaster, fire, theft, or any other unforeseen event, the impact on your business can be devastating. The costs associated with business interruption can be astronomical, including lost revenue, ongoing expenses, and potential lawsuits. This is where business interruption insurance comes in, providing a safety net for businesses during these trying times.

Business interruption insurance, also known as business income insurance, is a type of insurance that covers the loss of income a business suffers after a disaster. This type of insurance is designed to get businesses back up and running as quickly as possible, minimizing the impact of the interruption. It covers ongoing expenses such as rent, employee wages, and utilities, allowing businesses to focus on getting back to normal operations.

The role of business interruption insurance cannot be overstated. It has the potential to save businesses from financial ruin, allowing them to weather the storm and come out the other side stronger. Without this type of insurance, businesses may be forced to shut down permanently or struggle to stay afloat, putting jobs and livelihoods at risk.

One of the main benefits of business interruption insurance is its ability to provide coverage for lost income. This type of coverage can help businesses pay for ongoing expenses during the interruption, such as rent or mortgage payments, payroll, and utilities. It can also cover the cost of temporary relocation or the cost of setting up a temporary location to keep the business running.

Another benefit of business interruption insurance is that it can help businesses recover quickly from the interruption. This type of insurance provides funds to cover the costs of repairs and replacement of damaged equipment or inventory. This can help businesses get back to normal operations as quickly as possible, minimizing the impact of the interruption on their bottom line.

Business interruption insurance can also protect businesses from potential lawsuits. In the event that a customer or employee is injured during the interruption, the insurance can cover the cost of legal fees and any settlements or judgments that may be awarded.

In conclusion, the role of business interruption insurance cannot be overstated. It provides a safety net for businesses during times of uncertainty, allowing them to weather the storm and come out stronger on the other side. Without this type of insurance, businesses may be forced to shut down permanently or struggle to stay afloat, putting jobs and livelihoods at risk. As a business owner, it's important to consider the potential impact of an interruption on your operations and invest in business interruption insurance to protect your business and its future.

How To Clean Up After Sewage Damage

3/16/2023 (Permalink)

If you experience sewage problems, give SERVPRO a call!

A sewage backup is a very serious issue and can cause a lot of damage to your home. It's important that you take the time to clean up after sewage damage in your home or business as soon as possible, but it's also important that you do so safely. We always recommend calling in professionals to deal with the aftermath of a sewage backup. Below are the steps they will take.

Prevention is better than cure.

Prevention is better than cure. It's a saying that's been around for ages, and it holds true when it comes to sewage damage in your basement. The best way you can prevent this disaster from happening is by checking your plumbing system regularly and making sure that everything is working properly. If you have any concerns about the state of your plumbing, don't hesitate to call in a professional plumber who can inspect it for problems before they become serious issues.

Safety First

Before you begin the cleanup process, it's important to take a few precautions. First and foremost, make sure that everyone is out of the affected area.

Next comes personal protective equipment (PPE): rubber boots, gloves, and eyewear are essential items here--don't touch anything without these on! You'll also want a mask over your mouth so you don't breathe in any sewage-related bacteria or viruses that might be present in the water.

Locate The Source

When you're dealing with a sewage backup, you'll want to do is locate the source of the problem. If there's no main shut-off valve in your basement or crawlspace, look for it on an outside wall near where water flows into your home. Then turn off all water sources (including toilets) from there until everything stops flowing into the area where sewage backup occurred.

Clear The Affected Areas

Once you have removed all of the water, it is important to remove any damaged materials. Anything that has been saturated with sewage should be discarded as it could cause further damage to your home or basement. In addition to removing any damaged items, be sure to remove any debris that could cause further damage if left behind after cleanup. It's also advisable for homeowners who are unsure whether something is contaminated to not touch it at all until professionals can asses the affected materials.

Remove Sewage Water

Now that you've removed the sewage water, it's time to begin cleaning up your basement. The first step is using a wet/dry vacuum to remove as much of the remaining liquid as possible from your basement flooring and walls. After removing as much water as possible with a wet vac, soak up any remaining moisture in hard-to-reach areas like corners and edges of rooms.

Clean & Sanitize

You should also clean and sanitize the affected area. If you have sewage damage in your basement, use a disinfectant to clean the affected area. A disinfectant will kill any bacteria that might be present in the water or on surfaces where it has been touched and prevent mold and bacteria growth. Professionals will also use special equipment and cleaning solutions to remove any odor left behind.

Dry Out The Area

The last step of removing moisture after a loss is to dry out the area. To do this effectively, you'll need to use powerful fans and dehumidifiers. Fans will help circulate air throughout your home, which helps with drying out the affected area. Dehumidifiers are another way of removing moisture from the air, as they pull water from their surroundings and store it in a tank for later removal from your home.

Sewage Backups Can Be Cleaned

Sewage backup can be cleaned up, but it takes a lot of work by trained professionals. If you're not careful, you could make your problem worse or spread it to other parts of your home.

In order to prevent sewage backups in the future, we recommend that you call a professional plumber to check out your pipes and drains regularly. They will be able to tell if there are any problems with them and fix them before a loss occurs.

If your home or business has suffered from a sewage backup, it is important to call in professionals who have experience dealing with this type of damage. They will know how best to handle the situation and get your property back up and running again!

6 Reasons You Should Call a Water Damage Specialist

2/14/2023 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, be prepared to ensure your business will resume regular operation hours.

If you’re like most property owners, you probably haven’t considered the importance of hiring a water damage specialist. You may think that it won’t be necessary unless a flood or pipe break occurs, but there are many reasons why you should call one even if your property only sustains minor flooding. These include:

An expert knows exactly what is needed and isn't needed.

If you are in the middle of a water emergency, it can be hard to know what needs to be done and what can wait. This is where expert help comes in handy. Experienced technicians have seen it all before and know what steps need to take place immediately, and which ones can wait until later. They will also know how best to handle your belongings so they aren't damaged during the drying process.

Experts also understand that sometimes there isn't any visible sign of water damage while hidden areas still have it. Hidden mold spores are especially dangerous because they're not visible and can cause long-term damage if not treated properly right away!

They have the right equipment to extract and dry.

Having the right equipment to extract and dry is essential. If you have a professional come in, they will have the right equipment to extract and dry. This is important because it will help you get your job done faster.

When it comes to water damage repair services, hiring an experienced company that has been around for many years is always best. Finding a local business with reviews online can be helpful when determining which companies offer these services at affordable rates while also offering quality service (and not just cheap prices) — this way you'll know that your needs will be met by someone who knows what they're doing!

They know the best method of drying to prevent secondary damage.

It's important to understand that there are various drying methods and the best way to dry depends on the type of material, the extent of damage, and the size of the area. For instance, if there is mold growth due to standing water and humidity, you may want an expert like us who has experience in eliminating mold as well as drying out your property after a flood or storm.

While some people believe that using fans will be enough to dry out their home after a flood, this isn't always true. In fact, using fans can lead to secondary damage because they can blow around debris or other items throughout your home and cause more damage.

They can identify hidden water damage and mold.

You can’t see mold, but it can be in places that are hard to spot. Mold can grow behind walls and under carpets, so it’s important that a water damage specialist inspects these areas as well. When you call us for help with your water cleanup, we will perform thorough inspections of all of these areas before making any repairs or replacements.

They can save you time, which saves you money.

A pro is trained to handle the situation quickly and efficiently, which will save you time and money. Water damage can cause a host of problems that may not be immediately apparent. For example, mold growth is a common side effect of water damage that can cause significant damage if not addressed properly.

An expert knows how to properly document their work for insurance claims.

If you're thinking about making a claim, a water cleanup specialist knows how to properly document their work for insurance claims to ensure that you get the proper compensation. Documentation is also important for future reference so that if any problems arise in the future, the issue can be fixed quickly and with the least amount of hassle or expense. Documentation is needed for upgrades and maintenance work as well because it will help determine what needs to be replaced or repaired before fixing it.

It's always better to call an expert!

In the event of a water disaster, it's always better to call an expert! The pros are trained in handling your situation and have the right equipment on hand to help you get back on track quickly. They can save you time, and money and even prevent secondary damage.

A water damage specialist is the only person who can properly clean up the mess and make sure that your home or business is safe to occupy. The more you know about how these professionals do their job, the more confident you will be when hiring one for your own needs. If you need help finding a water damage expert in your area, please contact us today.

What is Water Extraction and Why is it Necessary?

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

Water extraction is a necessary service for those who have had water damage in their home or business.

Water extraction is the process of removing water from a building, whether it's a single room or an entire mansion. Extraction can be necessary for everything from homes to offices to factories and warehouses. There are many reasons for this, including floods, storms, leaks, and other types of water damage. Extraction is also necessary in cases where there's been a broken pipe or burst pipe that has resulted in flooding throughout a structure.

Water Extraction

Water extraction is a process that removes water from a building. It is often necessary after flooding or fires because it removes the water and helps prevent mold and mildew growth. Water removal also prevents structural damage to homes.

Another reason why water extraction is needed: when you think about the amount of time it takes for water to dissipate from your home, you may be surprised at how much moisture remains in the walls and on surfaces such as floors and ceilings after all this time. If left unchecked, these residuals can cause mold and mildew growth - which can worsen if not properly addressed.

Water removal will help prevent all these issues so that your property returns back to normal quickly!

How To Find A Water Extraction Company?

Water damage restoration is a complex process, so it's important to find a company with experience in this field. If possible, ask for references from other clients who've used their services. You can also look at online reviews and ratings to get an idea of how they're viewed by previous customers.

Look for reliable companies with great reputations in the water damage restoration industry, as well as those that are licensed and insured (you will likely be required to have the same coverage).

Steps In The Water Extraction Process

When you need water extraction services in Wichita, KS, we follow a four-step process. The first step is to determine the extent of the damage. Then, we will extract the water from your carpet. Next, we will clean and disinfect the area. Finally, we will deodorize the area to remove any lingering odors

Why Is It Important To Contact A Professional?

Water extraction is a powerful tool, but it's not something to be taken lightly. The process of removing water from a home or business must be done with care and precision. A professional will have the training, equipment, and certification needed to do the job right. They also have insurance that covers any damage caused by their work (if you're hiring an independent contractor).

SERVPRO offers professional water extraction and carpet cleaning services.

If you have flood damage or water damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of NW Wichita is here to help. SERVPRO of NW Wichita can begin work immediately following your emergency event and can provide 24/7 services for water extraction and carpet cleaning services. We are also certified by the IICRC as Water Damage Restoration Specialists, which allows us to train our employees in the proper procedures for handling water removal and mold remediation.

Water extraction is a necessary service for those who have had water damage in their home or business. SERVPRO is the best option for water extraction and carpet cleaning services. If you need help removing excess moisture from your home or business, contact us today!

Questions You Might Be Afraid to Ask About Mold

12/7/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can be found anywhere including walls.

Frequently Asked Mold Questions

Mold, mold spores, and mold growth are not something to take lightly. If you think that you have a problem with mold in your home, it is important to know what types of mold might be growing in your house and how to prevent the growth of these fungi. Here are some frequently asked questions about indoor molds:

What is mold?

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp areas. It can be found indoors and outdoors, but it's most common in basements, crawl spaces, and other parts of your home that are consistently damp. Mold spores exist almost everywhere—in the air we breathe, on surfaces we touch—but they need moisture to grow into colonies.

Mold growth is typically related to moisture problems such as leaky pipes or condensation from a humidifier or dehumidifier. These conditions allow mold spores to thrive wherever there is access to water.

Mold can also spread through dust particles carried by air currents throughout your home or workplace; this means you could have mold growing inside without realizing it until symptoms start showing up such as coughing fits when exposed for prolonged periods of time

How do I know if I have a mold problem?

Mold is a common problem in homes and businesses. It can be found anywhere there is moisture, including walls, floors, and carpets. Mold grows on surfaces where water has been trapped for several days or more. The most common sign of mold is a musty odor that lingers in the air despite ventilation efforts.

If you suspect you have a problem with mold or mildew in your home or office building, it's important to act quickly to prevent further damage. You may choose to clean up your own property without calling an expert first—but be sure to do so safely!

How can I prevent mold growth?

Here are some tips for preventing mold growth: 

• Reduce moisture levels. Mold growth is an insidious threat, and you may be able to take steps to prevent it from happening. A key factor in mold growth is humidity. You can reduce the amount of available moisture by:
• Using a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air in your home.
• Keeping windows closed when it rains or snows outside, and keeping them open only in cooler seasons when the weather allows for it (for example, closing them during winter but opening them during spring).
• Don’t use fans in bathrooms or other rooms where you sweat frequently, such as kitchens or laundry rooms (sweat-soaked clothing may also contribute to higher humidity levels).
• Not leaving dishes full of water on countertops overnight—instead wiping off any spills before bedtime each night!

What should I do if I find mold in my house?

If you find mold in your home, it's important to clean it up quickly. 

Mold tends to grow on things like wood, fabric and paper products that are damp for long periods of time—basically anything that has been wet for more than 48 hours. These materials should be removed from the house as soon as possible and disposed of properly (i.e., not just tossed into a dumpster).

If there's visible mold on hard surfaces like walls or windowsills, use a household cleaner and scrub it away using a stiff brush or sponge until all signs of discoloration are gone; then dry thoroughly with a towel before allowing them back into contact with moisture again.

The best option for a large mold problem is to call the professionals at SERVPRO of NW Wichita. You will definitely need professional help if there's hidden mold behind walls or ceilings where you can't see what's going on. 

Where should mold be tested?

Depending on where the mold is located, it's important to test for it there as well as in other areas of your home. Even if you don't see any visible signs of mold, it's still possible that some may exist somewhere else inside of your home and not just on the surface of something like floorboards or walls.

If you think you may have a problem with mold in your Wichita, KS home or business, call SERVPRO of NW Wichita. We have the training and expertise to safely remove mold and resolve the issue. Our technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) which is important because it means that they know how to properly clean up water damage from all kinds of messes, including those caused by flooding or fire damage.

Can Drain Cleaners Damage Pipes?

11/12/2022 (Permalink)

Drain cleaners are a quick and easy way to clear a clogged drain, but they come with risks.

Drain Cleaners and Damaged Pipes

Drain cleaners work by filling your pipes with powerful chemicals that break down clogs. However, these same chemicals can damage your pipes if you don't take proper care. The best way to protect your pipes is to avoid using drain cleaners altogether—but if you do use one anyway, here's what you need to know:

Choosing a Drain Cleaner

If you have a drain clog, you're probably looking for a quick and easy solution. While there are plenty of options out there that will get the job done, some can be harmful to your pipes and septic tank. So before you run out and grab the first bottle you see in the store aisle, take some time to read the label and make sure it's safe for your home.

Drain cleaners contain sodium hydroxide, also known as lye. In addition to the chemical reaction that allows drain cleaners to dissolve clogs, they also cause corrosion in pipes and fixtures. The corrosion causes erosion of metal surfaces, which can lead to water leakage or blocked drains.

Drain Cleaners Damage Septic Systems, Tanks, and Pipes

Drain cleaners can damage pipes. Drain cleaners can also damage septic systems, as well as septic tanks. If you have a drainage system for your home or business, it's important to understand how drain cleaners work and what their effects are on the pipes, pumps, and other equipment that make up your system.

Alternative Options

The alternative solution is a plunger or plumber's snake. Plungers work by creating a vacuum suction that can break down blockages in sink drains and shower drains. You just have to stick the plunger over the drain opening and plunge up-and-down until you've cleared your clog! Plumbers' snakes are long flexible rods with small hooks on one end which are inserted into your pipes so they can pull out debris from within them like grease buildup from cooking oils (a common source of clogs). Both methods take more time than using chemical drain cleaners but will save you money on repairs later down the road when those corroded pipes start leaking water everywhere!

Drain cleaners are a quick and easy way to clear a clogged drain, but they come with risks. If you have any concerns about the safety of using them in your home or business, it’s best to avoid them altogether. There are other ways to remove blockages from your pipes that won't damage them—such as using a plunger or hiring professional plumbers—and these methods are usually much safer for both humans and their surroundings than harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach or lye-based products.

If you have a water leak from a clog, give SERVPRO of NW Wichita a call! We will have your Wichita home back to normal in no time!