Safeguarding Your Home Against Winter Storms in Alliance, Ohio

1/15/2024 (Permalink)

Cold weather can cause a pipe to break in your home causing severe water damage. If you need storm or water damage cleanup, call SERVPRO.

Winter storms in Northeast Ohio can bring challenging conditions, and preparing your home is crucial. One major concern during this season is the potential for pipe breaks due to freezing temperatures. In this blog post, we'll guide you on how to safeguard your home against winter storms, with a focus on preventing and addressing pipe breaks.

Firstly, insulation is key. Ensure that your pipes are adequately insulated, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of pipes freezing and subsequently bursting during extreme cold spells.

Next, consider installing heat cables or tape on vulnerable pipes. These devices can provide additional warmth to prevent freezing. Pay special attention to pipes near exterior walls or in areas with poor insulation. Heat cables are an effective solution to keep the temperature above freezing, safeguarding your plumbing.

Regularly check for and fix leaks. Even minor leaks can lead to freezing in cold weather. Inspect your plumbing system for any signs of leaks and address them promptly. This not only prevents freezing but also conserves water and reduces the chances of more severe damage.

When a winter storm is approaching, take proactive measures to keep your pipes warm. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. Additionally, let faucets drip slightly during extremely cold nights. This constant flow of water can prevent pipes from freezing, providing a simple yet effective safeguard.

Invest in a reliable generator. Winter storms often come with power outages. A generator can ensure that essential appliances, including heating systems, continue to function during these outages. This is crucial for maintaining a warm and comfortable environment in your home.

Prepare an emergency kit. In case of a prolonged power outage or other unforeseen circumstances, having a well-equipped emergency kit is essential. Include items like flashlights, blankets, non-perishable food, and water. Being prepared will help you and your family weather the storm more comfortably.

Regularly maintain your heating system. A well-functioning heating system is your first line of defense against freezing temperatures. Schedule routine inspections and maintenance for your furnace to ensure it operates efficiently during the winter months.

Stay informed about weather forecasts. Keep an eye on weather updates, especially during winter. Being aware of upcoming storms allows you to take proactive measures to protect your home. Stay informed about potential power outages, extreme cold warnings, and other relevant information.

Finally, have a plan in place for emergency situations. Discuss evacuation routes, communication plans, and designated meeting points with your family. Being prepared for the unexpected ensures that everyone knows what to do in case of a winter storm emergency.

By following these guidelines, you can fortify your home against winter storms in Alliance, Ohio and minimize the risk of pipe breaks. Taking proactive steps and staying informed will help you navigate the winter season with confidence and keep your home safe and comfortable.

If winter storm damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of South & East Stark County at 330-823-4088. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Fire Damage Cleanup & Restoration Experts in Canton, Ohio

10/16/2023 (Permalink)

A fire caused major damage to this home in Canton, Ohio. Our crews were able to cleanup, restore and rebuild the home.

Fire damage in a home can be a devastating experience, leaving behind a trail of destruction and emotional turmoil. The aftermath often demands swift and comprehensive cleanup efforts to restore the property and provide a sense of normalcy to the affected residents.

Understanding the Extent of Fire Damage:

The first step in the cleanup process is assessing the extent of the fire damage. From charred walls to smoke-stained ceilings, each affected area requires careful evaluation. Professional restoration teams often conduct a thorough inspection to identify the severity of the damage and create a detailed plan for cleanup and restoration.

Safety First:

Before diving into the cleanup process, safety is paramount. The property must be deemed structurally sound before anyone enters. Protective gear, including masks and gloves, is essential to shield individuals from potential health hazards, such as lingering smoke particles and soot.

Smoke and Soot Removal:

Smoke and soot residues are pervasive and can infiltrate every nook and cranny of a home. Cleanup involves the meticulous removal of these residues from surfaces, furniture, and personal belongings. Specialized cleaning agents and techniques are employed to eliminate stubborn stains and odors left behind by the fire.

Water Damage Mitigation:

In many cases, firefighting efforts result in water damage to the property. The cleanup process addresses this issue by drying out the affected areas and preventing mold growth. Industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers are often utilized to expedite the drying process.

Content Restoration:

Fire damage doesn't only affect the structure of a home; it can also wreak havoc on personal belongings. Professional restoration services often include content cleaning and restoration. This involves carefully packing, cleaning, and restoring items that may otherwise seem beyond repair, such as furniture, clothing, and sentimental possessions.

Structural Repairs:

Once the initial cleanup is complete, structural repairs commence. This phase may involve rebuilding damaged walls, replacing charred woodwork, and restoring the overall integrity of the home. The goal is not just to erase the visible signs of damage but to ensure the property is safe and habitable.

Odor Elimination:

Smoke odors can linger long after visible damage is addressed. Professional restoration teams employ advanced techniques, such as ozone treatments and thermal fogging, to neutralize and eliminate stubborn odors. This step is crucial in ensuring that the home is not only visually restored but also free from any lingering reminders of the fire.

Preventive Measures:

In the aftermath of a fire, homeowners may choose to implement preventive measures to avoid future disasters. This could include installing fire-resistant materials, updating smoke detectors, and creating a comprehensive evacuation plan.


Fire damage cleanup is a complex and multifaceted process that requires expertise and precision. From the initial assessment to the finishing touches of restoration, each step plays a vital role in bringing a sense of normalcy back to the lives of those affected. While the scars of a fire may be lasting, with professional help, a home can rise from the ashes and become a symbol of resilience and renewal. Call the professional team at SERVPRO of South & East Stark County to restore and rebuild your home or business in Canton, Louisville, Alliance, Minerva and surrounding cities. 

Storm & Flooding Damage to your Canton, Ohio Home

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment drying a basement after it endured a water damage from a recent rainstorm in Canton, Ohio.

If you grew up here in Northeast, Ohio then you know how quickly a storm can suddenly happen. When the moisture levels, temperature and lift combine in just the right way, we get thunder, lightning, and wind – or worse, tornadoes. Storms can cause trouble inside and outside the house; flooding, fallen tree branches or hail can all cause potential damage.

Few things cause more destruction than water in a home, and your entire structure, along with many of your personal belongings, can be affected. The good news is that emergency restoration services are available to help you with the cleaning and drying process.

At SERVPRO, once we receive your call, we immediately dispatch one of our emergency crews of certified and experienced technicians to your property. Our project manager will assess the damage, identify all problems, document all damaged areas for you and your insurance company, and create a plan of action.

Here are a few things to do if your basement starts to flood before help arrives:

1. Move items that are on the floor to higher ground. Put larger items on blocks.
2. If water rises to electrical outlets, then turn off your power. If you can’t reach your electrical box because of the rising water, then evacuate immediately and contact an electrician.
3. Remove debris from your storm drains. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your property.

When dealing with a water loss, time is NOT on your side. The first 24 hours are crucial to prevent further damage to your property. Contact the team that is faster to any size disaster as we will make it our priority to restore your property. SERVPRO of South & East Stark County services include water restoration, fire restoration, storm restoration, mold remediation, roof tarps and board-ups. As a full-service disaster restoration company, we also offer repairs and reconstruction. SERVPRO of South & East Stark County is here to help you 24 hours a day to clean up and restore your water damaged home from flooding at 330-823-4088.

How Much Does a Water Damage Cost to Fix in Canton, Ohio?

5/12/2023 (Permalink)

During a recent storm in Canton, Ohio a basement flooded. The estimator determined it to be a Category 2 water loss.

Your first thought after finding water damage in your Canton, Ohio home is “How much is this going to cost to fix.” Unfortunately, this is not an easy answer, since every water damage is different from the type of water, the extent of the damage to the source of the cause of loss To determine the cost of a water damage is to call a professional cleanup and restoration company.

A restoration company will need to investigate the damage to determine the cost usually using an Xactimate insurance program.  Statistically, the average cost for flood damage restoration is $2,500. A small, clean water loss will often be around $1,000, while a large, black water loss (such as a flood) can be $5,000 or more. These costs are just for drying and restoring the property, it does not include any reconstruction such as replacing drywall, painting, or floor covering.

What does a water damage restoration company need to know before they can give a water damage estimate?

1. The restoration company will identify the category and classification of water damage: This will determing how to restore your property based on industry guidelines. The level of contamination of the water will affect the specific restoration processes we use.

• Category 1: "Clean Water" – The water contains little or no contamination. This type of water damage usually comes from a broken pipe, or other water source. Rainwater can also be considered clean water.
• Category 2: "Grey Water" – The water is slightly contaminated. Water from a malfunctioning or broken appliance like a washing machine or dishwasher. The increased contamination presents some health risks. Many things can be saved in a grey water loss, but not carpet pad.
• Category 3: "Black Water" - This form of water is highly contaminated and filled with bacteria, fungi chemicals and more. It requires the greatest care in handling. Black water is usually sewage damaged by flooding or any type of natural disaster. Porous materials damaged by “black water” cannot normally be saved.

2. The length of time the water has affected the area: A clean water loss or a grey water loss will degrade to a black water loss over time, depending on the temperature. Mold can begin to grow in 24-48 hours, so the longer a water loss goes before it is restored, the more likely mold will develop, which may bring additional problems and costs.
3. The size of the affected area: The cost is determined by the total square footage of the water-damaged area and surfaces which include floors, walls, and ceilings.
4. The affected surfaces: The costs are related to the varied materials damaged: floor coverings, furniture, wall materials, etc. A loss on an upper floor will often impact the floors below.
5. The extent of the damage: How much water affected the total area.
6. The type and amount of equipment:  To properly dry the property, the type of water and extent of the damage determines what tools and equipment are needed to restore your property.

Do all restoration companies charge the same rates?

• If the loss is covered by your insurance company, then professional restoration companies use a standard pricing system and prices will be similar for the same amount of work.
• If the loss is not covered by insurance or if you decide not to file a claim, the restoration company may change the pricing to best fit the situation and your specific needs.

It is always important to call a restoration company to classify and clean up all water damage. SERVPRO of South & East Stark County, your locally owned and franchised SERVPRO team in Canton, Ohio can be reached at 330-823-4088 and is available 24/7 hours a day for emergency clean up and restoration.

Visit http://www.SERVPROsoutheaststarkcounty.com for more information on water damage and cleanup.

Why a Flood Cut is Necessary After a Water Damage

3/10/2023 (Permalink)

A flood cut was performed on the drywall in this bathroom after a sewage backup in Alliance, Ohio.

When you experience a severe water damage in your home or in your commercial building, it could leave your property in a state of disarray. To get the room back to preloss condition, a professional restoration company in Alliance, OH may need to cut out the drywall known as a flood cut. The reason this is called a flood cut is because the cut is made 12-18 inches above where the flood damage stops. It is done to facilitate drywall tear out. This will allow proper air flow to ensure thorough drying.

When a Flood Cut Is Necessary

• When the Water Is Contaminated by raw sewage, fecal matter, chemicals, or other forms of contamination.
• The water damage is too severe to save the wall.
• It isn't practical to dry out the wall without removing sections.
• When the walls contain insulation, because insulation cannot be dried out and still function properly as insulation.

How to Perform a Flood Cut

Step 1: Mark a straight line: Measure from the floor to a decided upon height. Make a mark at this height at various areas along the affected walls. Using a chalk line, connect the marks on the wall to create a straight line at the decided upon height.

Step 2: Using a utility knife cut along the chalk line. Score the line through the surface of the drywall all along this chalk line, cutting one half or three quarters of the way through the thickness of the drywall.

Step 3: Carefully loosen and remove the damaged drywall. Using a hammer carefully knock a small hole in the drywall below this line. Gently remove the drywall, by using the drywall as a handle. Move the drywall back and forth to loosen it from the studs behind.

Step 4: Remove any wet insulation. After all drywall is removed, completely discard any damp insulation. It is easy to be fooled by the moisture content of insulation. It may seem only slightly damp when in actuality it should be removed. If in doubt, remove all the insulation in the walls. It is one of the least expensive things to replace and it is worth removing it now to avoid the potential of leaving some moisture behind the walls.

Step 5: Place fans for 48-72 hours. After all the damaged material has been removed, place industrial fans strategically to increase air flow behind the walls. Leave the fans running for at least a few days so the studs and flooring can completely dry.

When doing any type of demolition work, including that described above, it is important to wear proper personal protective equipment, which include gloves, safety glasses, hard soled footwear, and hard hats. Remember to turn off all electrical circuits in the area that you will be removing drywall. It is good to consult with an electrician in any cases of flood damage since water and electricity can cause potentially serious dangers.

Call SERVPRO of South & East Stark County for Water Damage Restoration

When it comes to extreme water damage, calling a professional restoration company insures that your home will be properly dried to ensure your house is safe to live. If your home or business in Alliance, OH ends up flooding, call SERVPRO of South & East Stark County to evaluate, cleanup and remediate the water damage or visit www.SERVPROsoutheaststarkcounty.com for more information.

3 Top Causes of Winter Water Damage in Alliance, Ohio

1/12/2023 (Permalink)

Cold temperatures can cause winter storm and water damage to your Alliance, Ohio home.

Strong winds, snow, rain, and ice during the winter months can take a toll on a home. Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst. It can also damage property by allowing moisture to enter and cause water damage and mold growth.

3 Top Causes of Winter Water Damage

1.) Burst Pipes - Most people believe pipes burst from expanding ice. Rather, pipes break and burst due to buildup of water pressure between the faucet/outlet and the ice blockage. Causes of this include uninsulated pipes or pipes that run along unheated areas of your home.

2.) Gutters - Gutters that have not been cleaned of their Fall debris hold water which in turn freezes and adds additional weight and ice buildup to the gutters. This prevents water on warmer days to naturally go into the gutter and down into the downspout. This is known as an ice dam, when you see those large icicles hanging from the gutter it's usually a good sign you may have an issue. When ice dams become worse the melted snow on warm days gets backed up on the ice dam causing water to pool up and go back up under your shingles into the interior of your home.

3.) Outdoor Water Sources - Remove all outside hoses, drain them and store inside. Shut off all valves that supply water to the outdoor spigots. Make sure after turning off the water supply shutoff valves you flush any remaining water out of the line to prevent a frozen and ruptured outdoor water spigot when you turn water on in the Spring.

It is important to clean and dry your home and any materials that become wet after a water damage. Calling a professional water mitigation company can dry out your structure quickly and effectively. After 24 hours mold can begin to grow if the water wasn’t properly removed. If mold is found it can sometimes be removed from non-porous areas, but if it grows on porous materials it may have to be replaced.  Removing these materials in properly could spread the mold throughout a house. The team at SERVPRO of South & East Stark County have crews that are highly trained and IICRC certified in water and mold cleanup. Call us today at 330-823-3088.

Water Damage Restoration & Cleanup in Alliance, Ohio

11/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment drying out a kitchen that had a pipe-break that caused major damage to a home in Alliance, Ohio.

Many of our water mitigation jobs are the result of interior, man-made, breaks or failures. Take a moment and consider all the areas in a home that may have a water damage in some capacity. Bathrooms have toilet and sink overflows, kitchens under the sink pipe-breaks, major appliances like a dishwasher or refrigerator can have a water line mishap, and do not forget your outside water spigots breaks - just to name a few.

It is important to know where your main water shut-off valve is in your home or business. When a water damage occurs, it is essential to turn off the main switch. Water can cause major damage and the quicker you can stop the easier and less costly the water cleanup and restoration will be. Local restoration companies have the knowledge and equipment to clean up the water damage. Trying to repair extensive water damage yourself could make the problem worse or not drying your areas completely could cause secondary damage such as the growth of mold.

Water damage in your home can cause damage to your structure. The following may need to be repaired or even replaced:

• Tile
• Wood
• Laminate
• Electrical wiring
• Drywall
• Wallpaper
• Paint

For Water Damage Cleanup in Alliance, Ohio

When you choose SERVPRO South & East Stark County, you have a full-service restoration, cleanup, and construction company to help you through a water damage. With years of experience and training, they will quickly get your life back in order. Our crews follows a highly regulated processes to ensure that the water damage restoration not only is effective, but also provides a safe place for homeowners during the restoration process. Emergency services are available 24 hours a day – 7 days a week to restore your home to "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO of South & East Stark County your local water restoration and cleanup company in Alliance, Ohio at 330-823-4088!

3 Things to Do After a Home Fire in Alliance, Ohio

9/8/2022 (Permalink)

A fire in Alliance, Ohio caused severe damage to this home. The SERVPRO team cleaned and restored the home to preloss condition.

A home fire can be an emotionally and financially devastating event. There are many things to accomplish after disaster strikes. If you're unsure where to begin, consider these three crucial fire restoration tasks. Completing these steps can get you started on recovering your livelihood and peace of mind.

1. Call Your Insurance Company

If you have homeowners insurance, your plan might cover some of the costs involved in getting your home back to livable condition. Fire insurance on top of a general policy can be even more beneficial. Before attempting any repairs, call your insurance company to let your agent know about the fire and inquire about potential financial assistance.

2. Consult With the Experts

Enter your home alone and you might encounter heavy fumes and unsanitary debris. Recruiting professional fire restoration experts in Jackson Township, Ohio is a great way to stay safe and ensure the repair of your home is in good hands. Professionals can work on homes after all types of fires, accurately assess the damage and utilize advanced methods to get your residence back to pre-fire condition.

3. Board Up Windows

During the smoke cleaning process, you probably won't be staying at your residence. This leaves it vulnerable to threats, especially theft. Troublemakers might see a fire as an opportunity to loot your property, and they might look for ways to enter other than your front door. Boarding up your windows is a quick and effective way to keep them out.

Professionals can use plywood and clamps to cover your windows. Intruders won't be able to unscrew the material to enter your home. If you are still worried after getting your windows boarded, you might also consider temporarily removing all valuables from your home.

Following these three tips can eliminate stress resulting from a home fire. Proper fire restoration can get you on the road to living comfortably again in Alliance, Ohio in a short amount of time. Visit www.SERVPROsoutheaststarkcounty.com for more information on fire damage.

Tips To Help Prevent Mold Damage in Canton, Ohio

9/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO team remediated mold damage in a Canton, Ohio home.

Water damage and mold growth in Canton, Ohio are two problems that are common in homes. They can cause damage and be very costly to fix. Because of this, you want to do everything in your power to prevent them. Knowing the signs of their existence are also important so that you can catch them before they get too bad.

Quick Tips To Prevent the Growth of Mold

Preventing mold is a priority that every homeowner should have, and there are a number of tips that you can use to reduce the risk of mold happening in your home:

Keep humidity levels under control
Fix any plumbing issues as soon as you notice them
Make sure that you control all of your clutter
Ensure that your home has proper ventilation and air flow
Immediately cleanup any water or other wet items when a spill happens.

Knowing the Signs of Water Damage

Since water damage is a very common cause of mold, it is important that you know how to spot it. Remember that this type of damage is not always obvious. The following are considered to be common signs of this issue:

There are unpleasant odors due to stagnate water somewhere in your home
You can see mold growing somewhere
You notice that paint is peeling somewhere in your home, especially on drywall since moisture can make the paint lose adhesion
You start to notice stains on your ceilings and walls
The flooring in your home is wet, has an odd smell or is starting to lose its integrity
Your ceilings or walls are sagging

Make sure that you make note of this information. If you notice any water damage or mold growth, it is imperative that you immediately take action. With mold, preventing it from happening in the first place is the easiest way to help protect the integrity of your home. Visit https://www.SERVPROsoutheaststarkcounty.com for more information on mold damage.

Why Call SERVPRO of South & East Stark County for Insurance Damage Claims?

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of South & East Stark County when you need immediate cleanup, restoration and construction after a disaster to your home or business.

When a home or business owner in the Stark County area needs clean up and restoration after a disaster the company you can trust is SERVPRO! Here are our services:

Water Damage Cleanup, Restoration and Repair

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO South & East Stark County is close by and ready to respond to your flood or water damage emergency. As leaders in the water damage restoration industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience with water damage. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-water-damage condition. Our process includes documentation of the drying process to validate your property is dry.

Fire Damage Restoration & Repair

When fire and water damage strikes, a fast response is critical. We are dedicated to responding immediately, day or night, to your Louisville home or business. A faster response helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce cost. The aftermath of a fire is always devastating to your home or business. In many cases, your property and contents will experience more than just fire, soot, and smoke damage. Due to the firefighting efforts and the fire sprinkler system, your home is likely to suffer from water damage as well. Our team is qualified to restore and rebuild after a fire and water disaster.

Mold Remediation & Restoration

Mold has the potential to grow in less than 48 hours after a water damage. A minor mold issue can quickly spread through a home or business. Once you contact us, our team is dedicated to starting the remediation process quickly. This fast response will lessen the mold damage which will stop additional damage and will reduce the remediation cost. Mold can produce irritants and allergens that can be very harmful to you and the people around you. That is why it is crucial to call us as soon as you discover or suspect mold on your property

Storm Damage Cleanup & Restoration

Storm and flood damage require a quick response and our team of highly trained technicians will quickly get your Alliance property assessed, properly dried and back to pre-storm condition. Using advanced equipment and scientific drying techniques, we document the drying process to validate your home or business is ready.

Biohazard Remediation

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances.

Commercial Services

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment to get your Canton business back up and running. Our services include fire, water, and storm damage restoration, including electronics restoration and document drying.

Building and Reconstruction Services

When your home or business has been damaged by fire, water, or storm damage, the immediate concern should be temporary protective measures such as placing roof tarps to prevent additional damage and boarding up to secure the building and remove water and debris. After protecting and securing the structure, our team can begin the restoration a reconstruction work to get your property back to its preloss condition.

Our team is available 24 hours a day and we can cleanup, restore and rebuild any disaster to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call SERVPRO of South & East Stark County at 330-823-4088 or visit: www.SERVPROsoutheaststarkcounty.com.