Winter is Coming

11/12/2024 (Permalink)

Old houses are beautiful but require special attention before winter sets in.

The Dearborn area has had an unusually warm and dry fall, but we know what is coming. Winterizing your home, especially an older house, is crucial for your comfort and safety. Here are some helpful tips to prepare your home for winter.

Clean gutters
Cleaning your gutters after the leaves fall prevents clogging and allows melted snow to drain.

Insulate pipes
Pipe insulation will help prevent freezing. The areas most at risk are unheated spaces like attics, basements, and garages. 

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Change the batteries when you change the clock with Daylight Saving Time. Be sure to test all devices are working properly.

Drain sprinklers
If you have a lawn irrigation system, hiring a professional to drain and winterize the system will help prevent freezing and bursting. 

Caulk windows and doors
Check windows and doors for drafts. Use a silicone caulk to seal gaps. Consider weather stripping around doors and windows for a more economical option.

Clean your chimney
Have a professional clean your chimney before you need your fireplace. Soot and blockages can cause a fire.

Prepare for power outages
Have emergency supplies at the ready. Be sure to have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.

Consider your options
If heating costs, weatherization, or energy-related issues are too taxing, you can contact DTE or THAW. Both agencies can direct you to help with keeping your home safe and warm.

At The Ready for Storms!

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

The stairs to this Dearborn restaurant's basement were completely covered by flood waters.

When Storms or Floods hit Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SERVPRO is ready!

SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Storms in our corner southeast Michigan have been known to flood basements to the top stairs. We are always prepared for these types of events. Our crews are highly trained and use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. 

Faster Response
Being locally owned and operated, allows us to respond more quickly and with the right resources. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration costs.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When flooding storms hit Dearborn and Dearborn Heights we scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States. Metro Detroit is lucky to have the Disaster Recovery Team just up the road in Saginaw.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 313-359-4357

Summer Storms in Dearborn & Heights

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Dearborn Heights firefighters suit up to rescue residents trapped by flood waters. Photo by Double Deuce Fireimages

Summer storm season is upon Dearborn and Dearborn Heights. We can most certainly expect heavy rainfall and floods at some point in the next few weeks. These storms have the potential to cause serious damage to your residential or commercial property.

Wind Damage
Wind damage typically results from a storm. Roof damage can range from loose flashing to a missing roof. Any type of damage to a roof can cause leaks in your structure which may result in moldy conditions inside.

Flooding Damage
Dearborn and Dearborn Heights, as well as the entire Downriver Area, frequently experience flooding during summer months. Even small storms can cause the Ecorse River and Rouge River to flood the streets.

Fire Damage
Storms can easily down our area’s overhead power lines. Occasionally these downed wire spark fires. Never touch a downed wire or anything in contact with the wire.

SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights has the experience to mitigate storm damage whether from rain, wind, or fire. Our team is always at the ready and here to help!

Wicked Winter Weather

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

We are always ready for any kind of winter weather disaster

Extreme cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause damage to your property. When these disaster strikes, immediate action is needed to prevent additional damage to your home or business. SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights has the expertise and resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather.

Frozen Pipes
Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Pipe in partially or unheated areas of a home such as basements, crawl spaces and garages are especially vulnerable to freezing. Outdoor pipes including sprinkler systems, hose bibs, and pool supply lines can freeze if they are not properly winterized and insulated.

Ice Dams
An ice dam forms when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes near the eaves. The dam prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles and leak into homes causing significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles - which can cause further damage to your structure.

Roof Damage
Snow and ice can cause damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. Water can get into cracks and small spaces then expand when it freezes causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Storms Hit Dearborn Area Hard

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

The below-grade, floor to ceiling windows of Dearborn's Historic City Hall gave way to flood waters.

SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE specializes in storm damage restoration. Five flooding storms in the summer of 2021 tested the mettle of our community and damaged more than 20,000 structures including Dearborn’s historic city hall. Our highly trained crews got right to work using specialized equipment to restore properties to their pre-storm condition.

Faster Response
We are locally owned and operated, so we can respond quickly and with all the right resources. A fast response will lessen the initial damage, limit further damage, and help reduce restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Large Storms
When storms hit the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights area, we have resources to scale our response to handle any size storm or flooding. SERVPRO has a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country ready to mobilize to any disaster. We are especially fortunately to have the elite Disaster Recovery Team strategically located throughout in Saginaw.

Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO^© Franchise Professionals are prepared for the unpredictable.

Summer Storms Bring Floods

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

We have the right tools for any water damage to your home and business.

Spring and summer storms frequently bring flooding in the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights areas. The Rouge River is notorious for overflowing after even mild storms. Household fans and dehumidifiers may appear to do the job but water is absorbed by the drywall and settles behind trim and under base plates. SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights has the tools and certified professionals to properly dry your home. Proper drying after water damage is the only way to ensure your home is clean and sanitary.

Our team is IICRC-certified to mitigate any type of flood damage to your home or business with the equipment necessary to do the job right including:

• Moisture Sensors
• Truck-mounted extractors
• Commercial Air Movers & Dehumidifiers
• EPA-registered cleaning agents

We develop a plan to minimize drying time and prevent any secondary damages which can create costly repairs. Once dry, we clean and sanitize the space to prevent future microbial growth and odor. Our goal is to leave your home or business, "Like it never even happened."

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Winter Damage to Your Roof

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

These massive icicles measured more than 4 ft long. They caused damage to the roof, attic and drywall.

The threat of severe winter storms has passed for south eastern Michigan. Now  is the perfect time to take a look at your roof. If you experienced any significant icing during the winter there may be storm damage to your roof and attic.

Ice Dams

Ice dams form when roof snow melts unevenly then refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. The dam prevents melted snow from draining. The water can then back up under shingles, leak into your attic and residence causing significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and rafters. Ice dams and very large icicles can pull gutters and shingles loose.

Roof Damage

Dearborn’s rough winters can cause significant damage to your roof. While the extra weight of snow and ice can cause a roof to collapse, the damage to your roof is likely more subtle. Water can get into small cracks and spaces. As it freezes and expands the small cracks and spaces expand and cause damage. Have a roofing professional exam your roof for any potential winter damage. If they find any, carefully exam your attic for any signs of damage in the same spot on the inside.

SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE is always happy to help you identify any potential problems with roof or attic space.

Roof Tarps Prevent More Damage

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

This East Dearborn mosque's roof was covered in a tarp after storm damage.

The Detroit area has quickly changing weather. Sunny to stormy and back to sunny in a day in a common occurrence. Roofs often take the brunt of storms. Wild winds can cause shingles to lift or be dislodged. Falling trees and flying debris can do much more damage. It is important to quickly and properly cover any external damage to prevent further problems inside your property. 

SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE provides emergency roof tarps for all sorts of structures including residential and commercial properties, as well as places of worship. We recently secured the roof of this East Dearborn mosque after a storm damaged it. Never walk on or try to inspect a damaged roof. The damage may be more severe than it appears to the eye.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Summer Storms

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

Power lines felled by a Dearborn summer storm caused this garage fire in the Ford Historic Homes District. Photo courtesy of Double Deuce Fire Images

The Metro Detroit area has the occasional ferocious summer storm. Late spring, well into summer is prime time for tornadoes, floods, thunderstorms, and fires. The SERVPRO of Dearborn team is here for any natural disaster befalling our area.

• Tornadoes– Tornadoes are characterized by whirling winds and debris which can endanger life and property. They are common from spring until the middle of summer but can occur any time of the year.
• Floods– Floods are becoming more common in the U.S., with flash floods as the top weather-related killer. Heavy rains and overloaded storm drains can cause floods. A few inches of water could bring extensive damage to homes and buildings.
• Fires– The heat of the summer, ongoing droughts and lightning strikes can precipitate fire massive fires. Downed power lines are a frequent cause of summer fires.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Winter Storms and Broken Pipes

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Pipes can easily freeze and rupture during the bitter cold of Michigan winters

The Dearborn and Dearborn Heights area face a few serious winter risks, but the bitter cold of Metro Detroit can be a real threat to your home.

Pipes break when exposed to the cold weather anywhere - outside your house, near exterior walls or in cold areas such as basements, attics, and garages. Even under sink kitchen or bathroom pipes are vulnerable if the heat drops inside your home. A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located. More often the rupture is caused by the back flow pressure between the water source and the frozen blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed immediately. The American Red Cross offers a few tips to help prevent frozen pipes in your home.

• Completely drain water from swimming pools, sprinkler lines, and outside hoses
• Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air near the plumbing
• Let a very small amount of water drip from faucets that may come from exposed pipes
• Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night

If you are lucky enough to escape the Michigan winters, please do not lower the heat in your empty house more than a few degrees. Every winter we see several empty homes with broken pipes due to the heat being turned off or lowered to dangerous levels. The energy cost savings will not outweigh the insurance claim. For more information visit https://disastersafety.org/winter-weather/protect-your-home-from-severe-winter-weather/

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Ice Dams Are a Major Concern

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Icicles may be an indicator of ice dams

The frequently vacillating temperatures of the Dearborn area can be havoc for you roof. Ice dams are a little understood problem that can cause major problems during snowy weather. They form when heated air melts roof snow. The now liquefied snow runs downward to the gutters. Since the unheated gutters are still full of snow and ice. When the water cannot flow into the gutter system, it can seep under the roof’s shingles and into the structure’s interior.

Icicles may be an exterior indicator of an ice dam. Water stains or moisture along the exterior walls or in the attic may be an indication of ice dams and water penetration of the roof membrane. Eliminating the dam as quickly as possible is critical to prevent damage. This can be done with heated roof cables, a roof shovel, or a calcium chloride ice melter.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Ice Storm Tips

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Close to the street houses are frequently hit by cars leaving icy roads. Picture courtesy of Double Deuce Fire Images.

As autumn quickly becomes winter in the Metro Detroit area, we see a number of different types of storm damage. Especially dangerous are ice storms. The weight of ice can bring down power lines and tree branches causing a host of problems. Those downed lines can knock out power and heat for days.

Without heat the pipes in your house will quickly freeze and break. Frozen pipes are one of the most frequent calls we get in the winter. Broken pipes can happen anywhere in your house. Depending on where it happens it can affect every level of your home. If maintaining a constant temperature to avoid frozen pipes is beyond your control, try keeping pipes wrapped in pipe insulation (try a towel or blanket if you do not have pipe insulation) and keep cabinet doors to let what little warm air there may be circulate.

The icy, curvy roads of the down river area pose a unique challenge for winter driving. A less frequent, but still fairly regular post-ice storm call is for board up service. Cars sliding off roads and hitting houses, garages and commercial buildings is frightening occurrence. Our crews are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to secure your property after being struck by a vehicle or tree.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Summer Thunderstorms

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Damage resulting from rain is no trouble for SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast.

Dearborn and the surrounding Metro Detroit area can experience violent summer storms. Thunderstorms near the Ecorse and Rouge Rivers often cause flash flooding resulting in water damage to commercial and residential properties. Heavy winds capable of knocking down trees and power lines increase the potential for damages. While rare in southeastern Michigan, tornadoes and hail are most likely to happen during summer storms. 

Severe thunderstorms and their cause

Like all weather phenomenon, thunderstorms vary greatly in strength. The National Weather Service considers a thunderstorm “severe” if it is capable of producing one or more of these conditions:

• Hail one inch or larger in diameter
• Winds of 58 miles an hour or greater
• Funnel clouds or tornadoes

Checking weather reports or subscribing to a weather service for the Metro Detroit area is a great way to stay informed about expected weather. Another way is to keep an eye to the sky for certain types of clouds. Thunderstorms form when moisture in warm, unstable air starts to lift as it meets a cold front. Dense, vertical, cumulonimbus clouds frequently indicate thunderstorms are imminent.

If you are impacted by thunderstorms anywhere in the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights area, SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast is always available to help.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Prevent Storm Damage With a Sump Pump

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

This helpful diagram explains how a sump pump works.

A sump pump can be an effective method for preventing basement flooding and subsequent storm damage. Whether it is rain or snow melt, a sump pump can give you protection all year long.

Typically, sump pumps are installed in a pit in the basement floor to sense when water levels begin to approach floor level. The potentially damaging water is then pumped outside before it can affect anything inside. Sump pumps are fairly low-maintenance devices, but a regular inspection of yours will keep it in good working order.

Follow this simple steps for your regular maintenance:

• Check the discharge line is not stopped, frozen or clogged.
• Check the inlet screen is free of residue and debris. Remove any visible debris, mud or stones from the pit.
• Be certain the float component is unobstructed and moving smoothly.
• Test the pump by slowly pouring water into the pit. The float should rise and trigger the pump to start working. It the pump doesn’t kick on, confirm the unit is plugged in. Then check to confirm float switch and valve are working properly.
• Check at the discharge site outside the house to be certain the water is flowing.
• If your unit has battery backup, consult the owner’s manual for instructions on checking and replacing the battery.

In the event of sump pump failure, SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE is available 24/7 to dry, clean and sanitize your basement and any affected personal items.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Winter Storm Damage

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

A tree fell on and damaged this Livonia, Michigan garage. Our crew tarped the roof until repairs could be made.

Southeast Michigan has crazy weather all year long, but winter storms are particularly dangerous. Even without heavy, wet snow we can experience especially damaging storms. With so many mature trees in the area, wind felled trees are not uncommon in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights.

SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE is always ready to help if a tree falls on your structure. Whether it is your home, garage, shed, or commercial building we have a crew ready to secure your property. We can board up windows, tarp roofs, and padlock doors. During the rough Detroit winters we will winterize the property if it not inhabitable during the repairs.

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Minimizing Storm Damage

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

Roof tarping is the first step in repairing storm damage

The Dearborn and greater metro Detroit area may not need to worry about hurricanes and landslides, but we do get severe weather. Damaging storms are especially common at the change of seasons. Whether storm damage affects your residential or commercial property, SERVPRO of Dearborn is here to help you keep your structure safe. It is vital to secure your damaged property quickly to prevent any further damage. Our board up and roof tarping services are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. We are locally owned and operated so we can respond to your call anytime. We work directly with your insurance company to ease your troubles.

If any type of wind or severe storm damage affects your home or business SERVPRO of Dearborn is always at the ready.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Board Up Service

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Secure your property with our board up services./

Board-ups are not just for hurricanes! There are many reasons you may need a board up or a roof tarp to protect your property. SERVPRO of Dearborn will board-up your building whether the damage was caused by fire, wind, vandalism, animal infestation or even if vehicle hits your structure – we did this for a beloved Downtown East Dearborn business! Proper board-ups secure your property from looting or vandalism. They also protect your property from any weather-related damage. Most insurance policies require homeowners or property managers to protect against secondary damage; not securing the property can result in a claim being denied. We can also provide fencing to secure your property and protect people who may enter the area.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

FEMA Mobile App

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Download this free app today!

It may not feel like it, but spring has officially sprung! With the beauty of a Michigan spring comes severe weather.

SERVPRO of Dearborn relies on the FEMA app for accurate weather reports and alerts. This free cell phone app is available for both iOS and Android devices. It is loaded with features to help keep you safe in any kind of weather or disaster.

The app helps you prepare should a disaster strike the Metro Detroit area. It provides emergency safety tips, checklists for building an emergency kit and allows you to set up an emergency meeting place with your loved ones. The Emergency Safety Tips feature even gives instructions for what to do before, during and after any conceivable emergency including biohazard, chemical spills and explosions. In the event of an emergency, the app has features allowing you to apply for assistance online and find a shelter in the Dearborn area.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Winter Storms

1/25/2018 (Permalink)

Winter storm damage is no match for SERVPRO of Dearborn

Southeast Michigan weather can cause severe damage to homes or businesses. Immediate action is needed when weather disasters strike. SERVPRO of Dearborn has the expertise and resources to mitigate damage caused by any winter weather. 

Frozen Pipes
Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Of particular concern are pipes in areas with outdoor exposure or in unheated/partially heated areas like basements, crawl spaces and garages. The damage from broken pipes can be quite extensive.

Ice Dams
Ice dams formed when snow melts then refreezes at the edge of the roof near the eaves. The trapped water can back up under shingles and leak into homes. This can cause significant water damage rafters, ceilings and walls.

Roof Damage
Quickly rising and falling temperatures happen often in the Dearborn area. Sudden thaws can cause water to get trapped in cracks and small spaces. When the temperatures drop, the trapped water freezes and expands causing larger cracks and greater damage.

Why Choose a SERVPRO of Dearborn? 

• We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.
  SERVPRO of Dearborn is dedicated to responding immediately to water emergencies. A fast response lessens damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost. 

• We're Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists.
  SERVPRO of Dearborn specializes in water damage restoration. All our responding technicians are certified in Water Damage Restoration and Applied Structural Drying techniques.

Whatever winter storm befalls the Metro Detroit area, SERVPRO of Dearborn is just a phone call away.

About Us
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, wind and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Two Simple Steps Before Fall Arrives

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

Keeping gutters clear can prevent water damage to your home

The cool, crisp days of fall are upon Dearborn; winter’s snow and ice are not far behind. There are two important steps you should take to prepare your home for the upcoming seasons.

1. Inspect your roof
   Are you certain your roof can handle the heavy rains, snow and ice Dearborn winters bring? Before the weather turns, take a look at your roof for missing or damaged shingles, weak spots, or other indications of trouble. If anything looks suspicious, contact a professional roofer for a thorough inspection and repair estimate.
2. Clean your gutters
   Falling leaves can slow the flow of water in your gutters. Enough of them can even block the gutters completely. To prevent clogs and subsequent water damage to your home, clear your gutters and drainpipes. Be certain to clear the areas in front of the drainpipe outlet too. Remember to keep checking the gutters as more leaves fall. Outside water damage, especially damage caused by lack of maintenance, may not be covered by your insurance.

These two easy steps can prevent big problems in the fall and winter seasons.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from water, flood, wind, storm, fire and smoke damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Summer Storm Damage

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

Summer storms sneak up on us in Dearborn.

The dog days of summer are upon Dearborn, Michigan. The hot days and cool evenings often create sudden, violent summer storms. A little planning can go a very long way toward keeping your family safe. A fully stocked and accessible Emergency Supply Kit will make any disaster a little easier. Keep in mind, depending on the severity of the storm, it may take days for help to arrive. The America Red Cross recommends stocking a 3-day supply of essentials.

Recommended Items to Include in an Emergency Supply Kit:

• Water, one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and can opener
• Battery-powered or hand crank NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Prescriptions, contact lens, glasses and hearing aids w extra batteries
• Copies of personal documents including medication lists, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates and insurance policies
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust masks to filter dirty air
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Tool kit and work gloves
• Local maps
• Phone chargers with car adapters
• Extra car and house keys
• Matches
• Pet supplies

If you suffer storm damage to your home or commercial property, SERVPRO of Dearborn will take immediate action to minimize secondary damages caused by severe storms.

We are always available at 313-359-4357.

For a complete list of our services visit us at www.SERVPROdearbornmi.com

Historic Wind Storm in Dearborn

3/19/2017 (Permalink)

Dearborn lost many of its beautiful trees during the March wind storm.

Tropical storm force winds whipped through Dearborn in early March leaving a wake of destruction and days-long power outages. Spring storms can cause tremendous harm to your Dearborn and Dearborn Heights property. Heavy winds and rain can cause roofs and walls to collapse, damage windows, even fell trees and power lines creating fire hazards. Heavy rain can cause storm drains to fail, backing up water into homes. Excess moisture soaking into furniture, carpeting, and building materials creates ideal conditions for mold growth, which can cause health problems. 

Having a plan before the storm will help you manage after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions
Familiarize yourself with the placement and function of all mechanicals in your home – furnace, hot water heater, air conditioner, etc. Know how to turn them on and off. Keep your insurance and identification papers in a secure, waterproof place. A copy of your photo ID should be included with this, as you may need it to access other documents, bank accounts or insurance benefits. Create a system to notify all members of your household of emergencies and have a designated meeting place.

After the Storm
If you smell gas, immediately leave the area and call your gas company from a remote location. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Trees and building materials may continue to fall well after the storm has passed. Do not attempt to move branches or debris, there may be unseen power lines electrifying them.

Contact SERVPRO^® of Dearborn to help secure your property and make it safe for your family’s use. Unscrupulous companies have been known to take advantage after mass damage. Be sure to check the credentials of anyone you hire.

Photograph the Damage
If it is safe to be in and around your property, photograph the damage so you have a record for your insurance company. This will make the claim process easy and help ensure correct compensation.

Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage. This helps facilitates restoration of your property. Your adjuster and restoration company will develop a plan to get you back in your home as quickly as possible.

Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance
Depending on the magnitude of the storm, the federal government may declare the affected area a disaster. This action may make you eligible for low-cost loans or reimbursement to help restore your property. The cities of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights, as well as Wayne County, have resources to help facilitate this.

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from water, flood, wind, storm, fire damage, and smoke disaster. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 service is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Ice Dams are Common in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights

1/19/2017 (Permalink)

A visual aid for understanding ice dams.

Ice dams are sneaky. Unless you are a frequent visitor to your Dearborn or Dearborn Heights attic you may not even know they are forming on your home. Temperatures above freezing in your attic will likely cause snow on the roof to melt. The melted snow refreezes when it reaches the colder eaves causing it to form a dam behind which water pools. The pooling water can back up under your roofing, leaking into your attic and along the interior walls causing wood rot and mold growth.

Mold is a great concern with ice dams. Preventing ice dams from forming can keep your family safe from potentially dangerous mold growth and costly repairs.

Prevention

Here are a few simple steps that can help prevent ice dams and condensation in your attic:

• Always discharge bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, and dryer vents, outside. Never into the attic. Even a properly ventilated attic cannot tolerate an exhaust fan pumping warm moist air directly into it.
• Proper attic ventilation is key to keeping the attic cool, while adequate insulation is key to keeping your house warm. Keep soffit vents free from obstructions to allow the cool outside air into the attic space to replace the warmer attic air that flows outside ridge and roof vents. This air exchange will keep the attic cool and free of moisture build-up.
• Consult a professional for the best way to avoid ice dams and water damage in your home.

Does and Don’ts

• Be certain vents are not blocked by attic insulation nor covered by any finishes outside the home.
• Verify all openings, access panels, and electrical fixtures are properly sealed and insulated while maintaining manufacturer’s required clearances.
• Check all exhaust fans and dryer vents are discharging outside.
• Keep gutters clear of debris.
• Do not “chip away” the ice of an ice dam. This can lead to shingle damage.
• Do not install mechanical equipment or water heaters in attics. This is a fire hazard and will increase the temperature in your attic.
• Do not use salt or calcium chloride to melt snow on a roof. These corrosive chemicals can damage metal gutters, downspouts, and flashing as well as nearby grass and plants.

If an ice dam forms on your house, consult a roofing professional. If you suspect mold has grown anywhere in you home, call your neighbors at SERVPRO^® of Dearborn. Our highly trained technicians are available 24/7 to help restore the cleanliness and safety of your house.

Be Prepared For Summer Storms

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

Summer storm damage can be catastrophic

Michigan is notorious for sudden, violent spring and summer storms. You can be one step ahead of Mother Nature with a well-stocked Emergency Supply Kit. Your kit should be assembled and easily accessible in the event of an emergency or evacuation.

The America Red Cross recommends stocking a 3-day supply of essentials. Keep in mind it may take that long for help to arrive.

Recommended Items to Include in an Emergency Supply Kit:

If you suffer storm damage to your home or property, SERVPRO of Dearborn will take immediate action to minimize secondary damages caused by severe storms. We are always available at 313-359-4357.