Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts
Restoring Homes and More, One Tornado at a Time
9/21/2023 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO® of Indianapolis East at (317) 243-3149.
In the wake of a tornado that struck, our team at SERVPRO® of Indianapolis East demonstrated their unwavering commitment to helping a client in their time of need. When disaster struck, our dedicated team didn't stop at just rebuilding a damaged roof and garage; they went above and beyond to make a remarkable difference in the lives of our clients.
The Storm's Impact
The tornado brought devastation to a homeowner's property, causing a tree to fall onto their house. The result was a damaged roof and garage. This client faced not only the burden of repairing their home but also an unexpected twist involving their pond, but that's where SERVPRO® of Indianapolis East stepped in.
Going Beyond Expectations
At SERVPRO® of Indianapolis East, our professionals are known for their expertise in restoration and their commitment to customer satisfaction. In this case, our team used their skills to not only rebuild the damaged parts of the house but also to restore the peace and tranquility of the homeowner's pond.
Why SERVPRO® of Indianapolis East?
SERVPRO® of Indianapolis East isn't just a restoration company; we are a team of professionals who genuinely care about our customers and the community. When disaster strikes, our SERVPRO-certified technicians go the extra mile to ensure that homeowners not only recover from their losses but also experience the exceptional service and support that SERVPRO® is known for.
This story of rebuilding a damaged home and restoring a tranquil pond reflects the values and commitment that define SERVPRO® of Indianapolis East. It's a reminder that in times of adversity, there are dedicated professionals ready to make a positive impact and help communities get back on their feet.
Summer Storm Damage to Your Property
8/29/2022 (Permalink)
Storm damage cleanup and restoration professionals are here to help
Don’t leave your home or business to chance when thunderstorms, high winds, and showers hit. Severe storms can lead to extended power outages in your entire neighborhood. Power outages can be costly to homeowners and business owners. Call SERVPRO of Indianapolis East for help with storm damage restoration and clean-up. In the meantime, take the following steps to help protect yourself during a power outage.
The Impact of Power Outages:
- Can disrupt communications, water, and transportation
- Cause food spoilage and water contamination
- Cause closures of commercial businesses, gas stations, ATMs, banks, and other services.
What to do during a Power Outage?
- Keep refrigerators and freezers closed
- When the lights go off, use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from the windows
- If you need to heat your home, do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home
- If anyone has medical equipment that requires electricity, get them to a place with working electricity or get them to help
- Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges
Storm Damage In Your Property
SERVPRO of Indianapolis East specializes in clean-up and restoration for residential and commercial properties after a fire, water, or mold damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration, and we are an IICRC-certified firm.
Quick Response Around Indianapolis East
Our certified technicians respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs. Give SERVPRO of Indianapolis East a call today at 317-222-5068. Our team provides 24-hour emergency service. When fire and water damage take control of your life, we can help you get it back.
Source: https://www.ready.gov/power-outages
Flash Flooding in Indianapolis
8/4/2022 (Permalink)
Flooded streets can be very dangerous. "Turn around don't drown."
A "flash flood" is a sudden local flood, usually due to heavy rainfall from thunderstorms. Flash floods come quickly and sometimes with little to no warning. Flash flooding can happen so fast that people are caught off guard. If you encounter high or fast-moving water while traveling, stop, "Turn Around, Don't Drown."
Am I safe from flooding if I live Downtown?
Many people live in downtown Indianapolis and should be aware of possible flash floods. Flooding can happen almost anywhere, even in urban areas, because of the impenetrable ground. The rainwater cannot soak into the ground due to the impervious nature of concrete and the lack of open soil in urban environments. Massive amounts of water run-off can then overwhelm the sewer systems. Sewers can quickly become clogged by debris resulting in the water to backup and then flood. If you're caught in a flash flood, stay safe and in your car, and use your emergency kit.
Some items your emergency kit may include:
- Water- one gallon per person for at least three days.
- Food- at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio
- Flashlight.
- Extra batteries.
- Candles.
- Phone chargers.
- Road flares.
- Rain ponchos.
- Tarp.
- Wet wipes.
- A whistle to signal for help.
Don't take a chance you may regret.
It's sometimes easy to underestimate the power and force of moving water. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep away a vehicle. People can be caught in their cars and swept downstream, causing severe injuries and death. Although many of these drowning deaths yearly are due to careless drivers, they can be prevented. Too many people ignore and drive around barriers that warn them of flooded roadways. Even driving through standing water can be dangerous. If the water isn't moving or cannot sweep your car away, it can stall your engine, leaving you stranded and causing long-term damage to your vehicle.
So, while I write this blog as content for our website, I also hope that by reading this, you will think twice next time you see a flooded roadway and turn around. Of course, it's best to take a few extra minutes and find an alternate route to your destination. So, remember to "Turn Around, Don't Drown," someone out there will be glad you did.
Storm Damage in Central Indiana
8/3/2022 (Permalink)
Storms can cause heavy damage to your home or business.
Severe storms are common in Indiana, especially during the spring and summertime. While they are usually short-lived and tend to blow through rather quickly, storms can leave a path of destruction for businesses and homes in Indiana. The worst part about severe storms is they have many ways to cause damage in Indiana with very few ways to prevent it. Here are a few of the ways storms can damage your property.
Damage from heavy storms
As the storms roll through your area, they can release a lot of water in a short amount of time. This quick accumulation of rain can cause flash flooding and overwhelm sump pumps. Flooded basements or water seeping through the basement walls is a common occurrence. With storms causing water damage inside homes and businesses, it’s essential to act quickly to get the water removed and the affected areas dried out. It only takes a short time before stormwater can cause even more damage by promoting mold growth in damp areas. Mold can grow in carpets, drywall, wood framing, furniture, and insulation. It can turn a bad situation into a much worse situation requiring mold remediation.
Damage from Large Hail
Golf ball-sized, baseball-sized, softball-sized...there are many ways to describe the size of the hale, and unfortunately, they are all quite destructive. Hailstorms tend to cause the most damage to cars and roofs. So, it’s not surprising to see dozens of roofing companies installing new shingles after a large hailstorm. Hail usually doesn’t cause further damage besides dents in cars and damaged shingles, but the larger hailstorms can break glass windows and doors and tear up roofs enough to cause water to leak inside.
Damage from Heavy Winds
The summertime seems to be the most popular for storms with heavy winds. They usually run in a vertical line and rip across the state from the west to the east. While they blow through quickly, their winds can reach up to 70+ mph. These damaging winds can tear shingles off roofs, rip trees out of the ground, pull siding off homes, and blow large debris through windows. Once they tear or blast a hole into a home or business, the rains can come inside and cause further damage.
Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration in Indianapolis, Indiana
If you should experience storm damage to your Indianapolis-area home or business, contact the storm damage cleanup and restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Indianapolis East at 317-222-5068. We have the specialized equipment, professional training, and certifications to clean up, repair quickly, and remediate damage from fire, water, mold, and storms to homes and businesses around central Indiana.
How to Prepare for Winter Storms & Frozen Pipes
2/4/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Indianapolis East
The winter season is here and snow and ice can create major issues for you and your home. As we prepare to support you, it’s best for every business and homeowner to review potentially problematic issues.
Whether it’s snow, ice, heating, thawing frozen pipes or unforeseen accidents, the combination of certain elements can destroy your property. Most people will know to be aware of frozen pipes in the house, but other issues may arise. Ice on your roof can prevent proper drainage, if heat isn’t evenly distributed, some areas may freeze, and water in frozen pipes will freeze causing secondary damage to other appliances or household systems.
Here are three preemptive ways to check in on your property.
- Insulate Your Roof
The best ice dam prevention solution is to properly insulate your roof. Heat escapes through ceilings and rises to the roof where it warms the wood and shingles above. To prevent this, check the depth of your insulation.
Anything less than 8 inches is usually not enough to prevent heat from escaping, and it's important to use foam or caulk to stop air leaks. This will not only stop roof issues, but it will also save you money on your energy bill.
- Remove the Buildup
If you notice a large amount of snow gathering on your roof, you might want to consider eliminating it. Houses that have poor ventilation can also have poor distribution of heat. By removing the snow with a push broom or shovel, you can clear any potential problem areas.
- Create Channels in the Ice
Ice dams can force water into your home through the attic. You can stop this by creating channels in the ice and draining the water into the gutters. Use a hose with warm water and melt the lower edge of the ridge. This solution is a temporary fix but could prevent a large amount of winter storm damage.
Winter storms will always be unpredictable and damaging in one way or another. Our only working defense is to focus on potentially preventable tactics.
You do not need to figure out how to prevent pipes from freezing or fix frozen pipes on your own. Feel free to reach out to us at SERVPRO of Indianapolis East for additional information on how to protect your home, we're always here to help!
SERVPRO of Indianapolis East Protects you from Flooding.
8/30/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Indianapolis East
Water is incredibly damaging, and most people would be surprised at what water can do once it sneaks its way into your home. SERVPRO of Indianapolis East is here for you for suggestions and life saving tips.
Our crews are highly trained and licensed to work in these situations. It is important to us to get out there and protect your property as quickly and professionally as possible, as we ensure the water will not migrate and cause additional damage to the surrounding areas.
Flooding can be dangerous and scary. Be sure to have emergency kits with you at all times in case of a storm.
Water intrusion for a home or business is always a traumatic event. Effectively restoring a fire or water damaged property is such a valuable service to any homeowner or business owner. This type of disruption creates stress and uncertainty for many individuals and can be very costly.
Excessive water and moisture in any indoor environment can pose health risks for occupants and if it is not resolved properly. Water intrusion can cause severe damages to both your structure and contents, as well as risking the need for mold remediation.
Properly mitigating, drying, and restoring a water damaged structure requires training, expertise, and specialized equipment with trusted leaders. With hands-on experience and coaching in the field, we are the best in the industry.
If for any reason, you and your family are unable to make it out of your home or town when a storm is coming, there are ways to be Storm Ready.
Follow the steps below to feel better prepared when a storm hits:
1.) Have a home emergency plan. Know all your safe exit points of the home, what to do with pets, keep on hand at least 2 Emergency Kits, and let your neighbors know you are still at the home.
2.) Stock up on the easy essential foods, water, toiletries, candles, lighters, and flashlights. Have plenty of blankets and pillows handy.
3.) Keep some games and toys for the children handy--Waiting for the storm to pass over might get boring in some cases.
4.) Secure loose things on your property.
5.) Make sure there are no branches hanging over your home or garage.
6.) Stay indoors when the storm is upon you.
7.) Ensure your home, contents and car insurance is adequate and current.
8.) Learn how to safely turn off your power, water, and gas.
9.) Keep a battery powered radio nearby so you can keep up with warnings and updates on the storm.
10.) Keep water containers, a camping stove and fuel safely on-hand.
Stay safe and prepared for storms in your area.
What to know when there's an Indianapolis Tornado Risk
7/25/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Indianapolis East
Tornadoes can strike without warning and destroy a community in seconds. A tornado is a rotating column of air that occurs during a thunderstorm and can have wind speeds that reach up to 300mph. Because wind is invisible, it is hard to see a tornado unless it forms a condensation funnel made up of water droplets, dust, and debris.
Know The Signs And Be Prepared
Before a tornado warning is issued for your area, here are some things to keep in mind.
- Know the signs of a tornado, a rotating funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar similar to a freight train. Many people have reported that when a tornado is approaching, the sound they hear is like a train barreling down the tracks.
- Know your community's warning system and understand the difference between a tornado watch and warning through the national weather service.
- A warning means a tornado is already occurring or will occur soon and to go to a safe place immediately. A watch means conditions are favorable, and a tornado is possible.
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or your local news channel for current emergency information and instructions. With advanced technology in weather forecasting, meteorologists can pinpoint circling winds and inform the public like never before.
Assemble An Emergency Kit
Assemble an emergency kit for you and your family. Put these items in zip lock bags and store them all in a plastic tub. Many different times can make up a kit, but here are a few of the basics to keep in mind.
It's recommended to have one gallon of water per person for at least three days, drinking and sanitation. At least a three day supply of non-perishable food per person. Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert. A flashlight, first aid kit, and extra batteries are all essential to keep in your kit.
Where To Go
Preparation is essential, and something we should all take time to do. It's a great idea to plan ahead of a disaster and chose a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way.
It could be your basement or storm cellar, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest level. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.
Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Always remember to stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
Understanding The Risk
Know your area's tornado risk. In the U.S., the Midwest and the Southeast have a higher risk for tornadoes. If you lived on the west coast, you probably would read about mudslides and wildfires preparedness rather than thunderstorms and tornadoes.
The infamous Tornado Alley, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska, still leads in the number of tornadoes. While Indiana is not one of the states that make up the region known as Tornado Alley, tornadoes aren't unusual in Indiana. Indiana averages 22 tornadoes each year, and that's why it's crucial to plan ahead to help keep your family safe.
If You Have Storm Or Tornado Damage
SERVPRO of Indianapolis East is here to help as your water damage company for Indianapolis. We offer emergency services as a restoration company for homes or businesses after a storm has passed. Some of these restoration services include roof tarping, basement flooding, water removal, covering broken windows, water damage repair, sump pump, structure dry out, and any flood damage repair in Indianapolis.
We're always available 24/7/365, even on holidays. You can expect an immediate response day or night (317) 222-5068.
Tornadoes In Central Indiana
6/26/2020 (Permalink)
Be alert, stay alive! Tornadoes are possible anytime there are strong storms.
Tornadoes can strike without warning and destroy a community in seconds. A tornado is a rotating column of air that occurs during a thunderstorm and can have wind speeds that reach up to 300mph. Because wind is invisible, it is hard to see a tornado unless it forms a condensation funnel made up of water droplets, dust, and debris.
Know The Signs And Be Prepared
Before a tornado warning is issued for your area, here are some things to keep in mind. Know the signs of a tornado, a rotating funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar similar to a freight train. Many people have reported that when a tornado is approaching, the sound they hear is like a train barreling down the tracks. Know your community's warning system and understand the difference between a tornado watch and warning.
A warning means a tornado is already occurring or will occur soon and to go to a safe place immediately. A watch means conditions are favorable, and a tornado is possible. Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or your local news channel for current emergency information and instructions. With advanced technology in weather forecasting, meteorologists can pinpoint circling winds and inform the public like never before.
Assemble An Emergency Kit
Assemble an emergency kit for you and your family. Put these items in zip lock bags and store them all in a plastic tub. Many different times can make up a kit, but here are a few of the basics to keep in mind.
It's recommended to have one gallon of water per person for at least three days, drinking and sanitation. At least a three day supply of non-perishable food per person. Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert. A flashlight, first aid kit, and extra batteries are all essential to keep in your kit.
Where To Go
Preparation is essential, and something we should all take time to do. It's a great idea to plan ahead of a disaster and chose a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or storm cellar, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest level. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Always remember to stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
Understanding The Risk
Know your area's tornado risk. In the U.S., the Midwest and the Southeast have a higher risk for tornadoes. If you lived on the west coast, you probably would read about mudslides and wildfires preparedness rather than thunderstorms and tornadoes.
The infamous Tornado Alley, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska, still leads in the number of tornadoes. While Indiana is not one of the states that make up the region known as Tornado Alley, tornadoes aren't unusual in Indiana. Indiana averages 22 tornadoes each year, and that's why it's crucial to plan ahead to help keep your family safe.
If You Have Storm Or Tornado Damage
We can help! Call SERVPRO of Indianapolis East. We offer emergency restoration services after a storm has passed. Some of these services include roof tarping, covering broken windows, water removal, and structure dry out. We're always available 24/7/365, even on holidays. You can expect an immediate response day or night. 317-222-5068
Springtime Rain Can Cause Flooding
5/18/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry.
Flooded Basements
With all this rain recently in Indianapolis and more on its way, sump pumps are being overworked and overwhelmed. Some pumps seem to be working correctly but still allows water to back up in the basement or crawlspace.
If you have standing water (flooding) in your basement, disconnect the main electrical switch or call a professional to help. If you are in doubt about your basement's electrical safety, it's best to stay out of it! Remember safety first!
Certified Training To Get The Job Done Right
Call SERVPRO of Indianapolis East, and our Certified Water Restoration Technicians will make it "Like it never even happened."
The water removal and water cleanup process are completed by our highly-trained technicians who will document the drying process, and this validates that your property has was dried thoroughly and accurately.
We are routinely called to homes and businesses all across Indianapolis to clean up after a flood has happened. We feel like we've seen everything and can handle any Fire-Water Restoration job that comes our way. When Indianapolis experiences heavy rains like we're currently having, homeowners and business owners trust SERVPRO to arrive fast and make it "Like it never even happened." Our highly trained crews have the experience, equipment, and resources to handle the job, large or small, residential, and commercial.
One Call Away To Save The Day
When water damage strikes, a fast response is critical. Day or night, Indianapolis residents and business owners can expect us to respond immediately to your water emergency. Call us, SERVPRO of Indianapolis East 24/7 for emergency services 317-222-5068.
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