As spring ushers in periods of freezing and thawing, Newtown Square, PA, residents need to prepare their homes to weather the unpredictable weather.

2/24/2023 (Permalink)

This window endured severe water damage and extreme freezing weather conditions.

When a storm damage disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Media is prepared and ready to assist clients in Newtown Square, PA, and surrounding areas with water and flood restoration services, as well as storm cleanup. The damage restoration company’s rapid response helps homeowners and businesses recover from severe weather quickly and efficiently.

Early spring is that time of year when the weather is sometimes warm and calm and at other times cold and turbulent. Temperature variations can be extreme, and it is hard to predict when the shift will occur. The collision of warm air and cold air in the atmosphere can produce some of the most violent weather conditions, including tornadoes, large hail, and flooding.

In addition to producing storm activity, the freeze/thaw cycle is notable for making Pennsylvania roads more treacherous because the fluctuating temperatures create potholes. According to a Pennsylvania DOT publication, the freeze/thaw cycle is defined as “The calendar period between approximately February 15th and April 15th…” During the months of February through April, Pennsylvania residents would do well to not only pay more attention to the roadways but to also pay attention to their homes in preparation for potential water damage brought about by the storms and flooding of spring.

Listed below are some vital tips for the homeowner to prepare a home for unpredictable spring weather that can bring water damage, storm damage, and flooding. Many of these tips can also be useful for business owners.

Tip one: Inspect the grade around the foundation of the home.

When the home’s foundation is properly graded, water adequately drains away from the structure. The optimal slope is one inch per foot for the first five to ten feet. Re-grade any areas where the slope angles toward the foundation. Remove any obstructions such as timbers, bricks, or other debris that could hinder the free flow of water away from the foundation.

Tip two: Ensure flood drains around the home flow freely.

Leaves, grass, pine needles, mulch, and paper can build up on top of a drain grate, restricting the flow of water. A heavy thunderstorm can overwhelm the clogged drain, turning the yard into a shallow pond. The water can flood into the garage or seep into the crawl space. Even though the home or business may not be in a flood plain or qualify for flood insurance, insufficient grading and clogged drainage systems can create a situation that results in a micro-flood involving only one of two properties.

Tip three: Remove any obstructions from floor drains inside the home.

A floor drain can limit the scope of a water intrusion from a burst pipe, tub overflow, or roof leak, saving the homeowner time and money for a water damage restoration. However, if the drain is covered with items that restrict the flow of water into the drain, the results could be disastrous.

Tip four: Perform seasonal maintenance on gutters and downspouts.

Leaves, sticks, pine needles, and dirt can clog gutters and downspouts. When gutters are neglected over a prolonged period, the buildup of organic matter and sediment can foster the growth of saplings in the gutters. Overflowing gutters can cause structural damage to the home, promote mold growth, and lead to a flooded crawlspace.

Tip five: Consider installing water alarms and flood sensors.

Certain factors expose the home to flooding, and some homes are more flood-prone than others. Check the local flood map to see if the house falls in a flood plain.

Trust SERVPRO of Media for water damage restoration services in the event of a water damage disaster from storm damage, flooding, a burst supply line, or a sewage backup in Newtown Square, PA, or surrounding areas. Crews are available 24/7, 365 days a year, including holidays. A rapid response avoids advanced secondary damage from exposure to water and moisture. Trained, experienced, and certified technicians utilize the latest equipment and cleaning techniques to restore a home or business to its pre-disaster condition. Homeowners receive a detailed estimate with photo and video documentation. The staff at SERVPRO can handle the insurance claims process from beginning to end. The property damage professionals can also manage and coordinate all aspects of the project from start to finish, removing extra work and stress from the client’s shoulders.

For more information about SERVPRO of Media’s flood damage cleanup services, contact the team by email at office@SERVPROmedia.com. A customer representative can also be reached by phone at (610) 566-5720.