Weakening foundations: Unveiling the hidden structural damage beneath the surface

1/1/2024 (Permalink)

Wet roof with possible leaks.

While storms bring immediate visible damage to Corpus Cristi homes, one of the most concerning aspects is the hidden structural damage that can occur beneath the surface. Stormwater infiltration can weaken the foundation upon which your home stands, posing a significant risk to its stability and long-term integrity.

When excess water saturates the ground surrounding your home, it can seep into the foundation, causing soil erosion and compromising its structural support. Over time, this can lead to foundation settling, shifting, or even cracking, endangering the overall stability of the entire structure.

Furthermore, water-damaged foundations create an environment ripe for further deterioration. Moisture trapped within the foundation can contribute to the growth of mold and rot, further compromising its strength. The weakened foundation can affect the alignment of walls, floors, and even the roof, leading to a range of structural issues that require immediate attention.

At SERVPRO of Corpus Cristi, we recognize the gravity of weakening foundations caused by water damage. Our skilled team conducts thorough inspections to assess the structural integrity of your home. We employ proven techniques to address foundation issues, such as drainage solutions, waterproofing strategies, and reinforcement methods. By addressing the hidden damage beneath the surface, we ensure that your home stands on a solid foundation, ready to weather future storms with resilience.

The deluge begins: Unleashing the relentless power of heavy rainfall

10/31/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Trucks

When the heavens open up and heavy rain pours down, it begins a deluge that unleashes the relentless power of nature. Harahan homes, usually safe and secure, become vulnerable to the onslaught of water. The sheer force and volume of the rainfall can quickly overwhelm drainage systems, saturating the ground and infiltrating every possible opening in your home.

As the rain intensifies, the risk of water damage increases exponentially. Roofs, windows, and doors become the front line, facing the unyielding assault. Even the smallest cracks or compromised seals can allow water to seep in, finding its way into your sanctuary. Unrelenting in its determination, the water creeps through walls, ceilings, and floors, wreaking havoc in its path.

The immediate consequences of heavy rainfall are evident: standing water accumulating in basements, flooded rooms, and dampened carpets. The impact is not limited to visible areas alone; hidden moisture pockets can develop within walls, inviting mold growth and compromising structural integrity. The longer the water remains stagnant, the greater the risk of extensive damage and costly repairs.

SERVPRO of Corpus Cristi is here to help you with all of your water and storm damage.  Contact the professionals today.

Storm Damage Remediation Options for your Home or Business

10/28/2023 (Permalink)

Tornado damage to roof

Water damage can cause significant damage to your property and your health if not promptly attended to by water restoration professionals.

When water penetrates your walls, it can result in structural damage to your home. Not only that, it causes mold to form around your property. After a flood, a leak, or a general plumbing failure, it is advisable to inspect your home for potential water damage. Spotting water damage in the wall is possible if you know what to look for. In most cases, the damage may not be visible immediately.

To avoid potential damage to your home, it is important to enlist the service of a water damage restoration professional with the skills and knowledge to identify water damage and recommend an appropriate fix.

Wall water damage that happens behind your wall can cause long-term damage both to your home and your health. However a timely intervention of a professional can help prevent these issues.

If you need a professional water damage restoration service for water removal in the South Texas area, look no further than SERVPRO of Corpus Cristi.

The company has a dedicated team of water restoration specialists with experience in handling wall water damage, regardless of the size. They will come to your property to assess your water damage emergency and provide recommendations to fix the issue.

Here Are Some Storm Damage Resources That Are Available To You

10/28/2022 (Permalink)

We have all dealt with storm damage in the past, and since we live in an area affected by hurricanes, we will probably deal with them again in the future.  We all know what to do in order to prepare for a hurricane, but what do we do after the storm has passed?  It is just as important to have a post-storm plan, as one before.

Here are a few things to do immediately after the storm has passed and it is safe to do so.

1. Before you clean up, take pictures and videos of all of the damage, inside and out.
2. Start removing anything that is wet or holding water, followed by debris from your home.
3. Have your insurance policy and contact information ready to go so that you can contact them right away.  
4. Start making any repairs that you can in order to stop future damage.

Remember that if a storm does damage to your property, it probably did to many others as well.  Get in touch with your insurance company as quickly as possible to get the claim started.    We all remember events in the past where it took weeks to get someone out to look at the damage.  Having a plan for after the storm can help keep you on a track to getting back to normal as quickly as possible.  The team at SERVPRO of Corpus Christi is here to help.  Contact us today with any questions on what we can do for you!

Preparing for the Corpus Christi Storm Season

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Storms are a common thing, no matter where we live. Sometimes they pass us right by, other times they leave a path of destruction in their wake. There are multiple classifications for thunderstorms, but the ones that we worry the most about are the ones that are considered “Severe”. We have all heard our local weather person tell us that there is a chance of “severe thunderstorms in our area”, but what does that mean? The National Weather Service considers any thunderstorm that can create hail that is 1 inch or greater in diameter or can create gusts of wind that are 58 miles per hour or greater to be severe.

Most modern shingles are created to withstand winds up to 90 miles per hour, but even the best ones will start to wear down over the years between all of the sun, rain, and possible hail. The best way to prevent roof damage and possible water damage is to make sure that your roof is in good shape. Do you know how old your roof is? If you built your home, you should know, but if you purchased it from someone else, the roof’s age should have been disclosed in the paperwork. In either case, you should have your roof inspected occasionally for any kind of damage. You can hire a professional, climb a ladder and do it yourself (be careful) or maybe grab a friend with a drone and have them do a few slow passes to look for damage.

If you are suffering from storm water damage, make sure to contact the professionals of SERVPRO Corpus Christi at (361) 596-8030.

The common signs of roof storm damage

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Your roof can be damaged without you knowing it. SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East highlights the telltale signs of roof storm damage.

Storm damage is one of the most prevalent causes of roof damage, leading to a repair or replacement before the roof has reached its expected lifespan. Wind, heavy rain, hail, and falling objects can all cause damage to a property’s roof. Although some damage is evident, others might be difficult or impossible to spot—especially from the street level.

Early discovery of the situation, on the other hand, is critical for reducing damage, especially water damage, to your home or business. The water restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East have outlined the following telltale signs of roof storm damage to look out for in your home or business space.

Signs of roof storm damage

1. Water Damage Signs

Some of the most obvious indicators of roof leaks inside the house are ceilings and wall damage. If you notice discoloration of any kind on your ceiling or walls, you have a leak somewhere.

These water stains could suggest a roof leak or a plumbing leak depending on the location. Leaks can ruin your home's infrastructure from the inside out, allowing harmful molds to thrive.

It’s essential to check for leaks regularly or hire a professional to inspect your roof and plumbing.

Other signs of a roof leak include wet insulation, mold, and water spots around the siding of your property.

2. Shingle Granule Loss

After a severe storm, keep an eye out for missing shingles; these are common signs of damage that leave the roof vulnerable to the elements. Due to high wind pressure, shingles can be shattered, totally blown off, or curl up with fractured edges. Similarly, fallen branches might dislodge sections carried away by the wind, exposing the underlying area to severe weather.

Ensure to replace damaged shingle as soon as possible to prevent water damage when the next storm hits.

3. Scattered Debris

Broken decking pieces, nails, leaves, twigs, and other debris discovered near a residence signal that the roof should be inspected. If left untreated, the piled-up garbage can attract pests and even turn into compost, encouraging weed growth.

This debris can cause clogs in the gutter and drainage system when carried over by rain, worsening the moisture and wetness on the roofs. Look for debris in every nook and cranny of the rooftop and enlist professional help to clear it regularly.

4. Cracked Chimneys

Strong winds can damage exterior components such as chimneys. Inspect the joints between the chimneys and the roof for cracks and holes. These joints typically deteriorate over time due to wear and tear. Nevertheless, a strong wind might blow away the mortar that joins the chimney to the roof. Additionally, keep an eye out for the missing chimney top. Any such holes or missing caps in chimneys should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid water leaks and structural difficulties in the interiors of the building or residence.

The Impact Of Storm Damaged Roofs

If not correctly handled, storm damage can lead to leaks that allow water into your home, damaging your property structure and belongings. But while there’s a lot you can do to prevent roof damage and leaks, water damage happens occasionally, and how quickly you act can make a significant difference.

Get Professional water restoration services in South Side Corpus Christi, TX

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East is your best choice for water damage restoration in South Side Corpus Christi, TX. They offer exceptional service to homeowners and businesses in need of emergency assistance and water damage restoration services.

Their IICRC-certified restoration technicians will work with you to repair your property within the shortest possible time. Their team is available 24-hour every day to provide emergency assistance when you need it.

Contact SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East at (361) 985-6444 to discuss your water restoration needs and get a free quote.

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East Outlines the Steps to Take After Experiencing Storm Damage.

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Knowing what to do after a storm can make all the difference in how things turn out. Everything from your carpets to furnishings, your insurance claim, and your vehicles could be affected, and if you don't act promptly, your property structure and belongings could be at stake.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East have outlined the steps to take after storm damage to minimize losses and save you money.

1. Safety First

Whether your home was flooded, wind-damaged, or struck by lightning, the result can be extremely dangerous. Depending on the level of damage, you're at risk from live electrical lines, mold, insects, pests, and rain entering through the open sections of your home.

It's a good idea to leave your home until you can assess the damage. Until you can get a water damage professional or inspector to your house, consider going to see friends and relatives, or staying in a hotel or emergency shelter.

2. Examine the Damage and Photograph it

When the storm has passed and it is safe to go outdoors, take out your camera or use your smartphone to take pictures and make videos of the damage.

Take note of any potential issues like mold and exposed power wires that are collapsing drywall. Always remember to stay safe. It's not worth endangering your life for images that you can take at a later, safer time, especially if the water is high or there are fallen power lines around.

If you're worried about another storm hitting your property, always take photos before the storm.

3. Get in Touch with Your Insurance Provider

If your home or car was damaged by the storm, it’s important to promptly inform your insurance agency. An agent will help with answering questions regarding your claims and determining whether or not the damage is covered by your policy.

It is recommended that you file a claim within the first 24 hours after the storm using images and videos showcasing the damage to your home.

The longer you wait, the further back you will likely be in line, slowing down processing and repairs. If you wait too long, you risk causing more harm to your home.

4. Hire Storm and Water damage Restoration Services

Waiting for your insurance policy provider to complete processing and approve your claim before making any efforts to repair your home is a waste of time and could lead to more damage.

Engage the services of a local repair company as soon as you submit the claim to your insurance provider.

The restoration company will help assist with the insurance claim procedure to ensure that the repair costs are fairly covered by insurance. Depending on the damage to your home, you may need to hire a roofer, siding installer, or others.

For every day you leave water-impacted items unattended, the more they get damaged. The best thing you can do after filing an insurance claim is to get the services of a storm damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East. These professionals are skilled and highly experienced at cleaning up after storms and can help you restore your property to its original state. They have specialized equipment to clean your home and clean and dry all absorbent materials like furniture, carpets, and others that have been polluted by floodwater.

They’ll dry out the walls and salvageable belongings in your home to return it to its previous habitable state.

Get Professional Storm Damage Restoration in Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East is your number one choice for any storm damage issues. Their restoration professionals are ready to help you get your home back to the way it was before it was damaged. You can rely on their emergency restoration services anytime you experience a disaster.

They are properly trained and use cutting-edge technology to complete each task. They can also help you with determining the full extent of the damage and performing services per industry best practices and standards.

Contact SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East today at (361) 985-6444 to speak to a water damage restoration professional.

Heavy Rain Storm Left Odor In My Business

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

The water damage from a heavy rain storm in your Corpus Christi East business often comes with odors and mold growth that can be hard to find. If you suspect you have mold but don't see any growth, we recommend finding an industrial hygienist who can find out what mold may or may not be in your home. Other measures you can take to help with the funk are below:

Air It Out

Open all doors and windows to allow air to circulate in your residence. This should help dissipate any lingering smells that remain and will also facilitate the drying of the affected areas.

Dry the Wet Areas

You may install dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process. Removing moisture from porous and absorbent surfaces such as carpet and upholstery can greatly reduce the chance of foul aromas remaining after the flood and can mitigate the appearance of mold.

Deodorize Your Business

There are natural methods that you can utilize to expedite the deodorizing process in your house. Baking soda sprinkled into carpets or other absorbent surfaces can be vacuumed up, greatly with getting rid of foul odors. On less porous surfaces, vinegar applied liberally can aid in combating persistent smells.

Keep an Eye Out for Mold

As with any area that has had prolonged exposure to moisture, mold growth can be a threat that, if not addressed immediately can become a huge problem. It is imperative that proper steps are taken to ensure that mold and spores do not have the opportunity to spread in your home.

Sewage

Sewage loss can lead to your home being contaminated by sewage contents when floodwater finds its way past your threshold. This can leave behind an overpowering smell even after the moisture has been removed due to the bacteria in the water. These horrendous smells often cannot be removed by household cleaners and require the services of a professional flood restoration company.

Eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call at (361) 985-6444 and leave the restoration to us!

Preparing for Tornadoes | SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

We have seen an influx in tornadoes in the southern region lately. It is always good to be prepared when dealing with storms that could potentionally turn into a tornado. 

Prepare:

• Know the signs of a tornado, including a rotating funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar similar to a freight train.
• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. Become familiar with your community's sirens.
• Pay attention to weather reports. Meteorologists can predict when conditions might be right for a tornado.
• Identify and practice going to a safe shelter for high winds, such as a safe room built using FEMA criteria or a storm shelter built to ICC 500 standards. The next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room in a sturdy building on the lowest level.

Survive:

• Immediately go to a safe location that you identified.
• Take additional cover by shielding your head and neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around you.
• Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle. 
• If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket, if possible. 

Recover:

• If you are trapped, cover your mouth with a cloth or mask to avoid breathing dust. Try to send a text, bang on a pipe or wall, or use a whistle instead of shouting.
• Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
• Do not enter damaged buildings until you are told that they are safe.
• Save your phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often down or busy after a disaster. Use text messaging or social media to communicate with family and friends. 
• Be careful during clean-up. Wear thick-soled shoes, long pants, and work gloves.

In the event your home or business is damaged by a tornado or high winds, SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East is available 24/7/365 to assist in securing your property.

Our reconstruction team is experienced in restoring properties from this type of damage, working in conjunction with your insurance company to bring your home or business back to life. Call us today at (361) 985-6444!

Should You Inspect Your Roof After a Thunderstorm?

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

The thunderstorms down south are on another level compared to many areas of the United States. After a thunderstorm, you might be concerned about damage to your home and especially your roof. After a storm, here are some tips for inspecting your roof for water damage so you can get it fixed before the next storm.

Check For Leaks

The obvious way to know if you have roof damage is if there is water leaking into your home. Look along the seams where the wall meets the ceiling, corners of rooms, and in the attic for any kind of moisture or dampness. If you find any, you will know where to make repairs and can help to mitigate to prevent further damage.

Check Your Roof

If you don't see any internal damage, you should try to get up on your roof and check for any missing shingles, cracks, or other damages. Carefully go over each section to find any kind of wind or water damage. Make sure any seals around grates, vents, or windows are intact and have not weathered.

How To Use Your Garden Hose To Check

The most thorough test you can do for your roof to ensure there are no leaks is to test it out by simulating heavy rain conditions. With someone inside watching for leaks, pour water from the garden hose over sections of your roof to look for leaks. You can also do this to make sure your gutters are properly draining. This test will give you a firsthand look at how water is draining off your roof and let you know of any repairs that need to be made.

If you do find any damage to your home or roof, immediately contact your home insurance provider and make sure to document any damage with pictures so that you can get a claim submitted for repair costs. Our team is on standby 24/7 to help mitigate any issues. We also have a phenomenal construction team that can help with roof repairs! 

How To Clean Build-Up In Your Corpus Christi Home's Gutters After a Storm

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East knows that we get our fair share of sunny days throughout the year, however, it also brings the occasional rainstorm. Our rainstorms are often accompanied by heavy wind and very strong rain. By dumping a high volume of water in a relatively short amount of time, it’s important to take precautionary measures to prevent building that can affect your drain pipes.
 
One measure you can take is cleaning out your home’s gutters and storm drains after a storm hits, and you can do it in three easy steps:
 
First, start by scooping out debris. Find a ladder and securely place it against your home so you are able to reach the gutters comfortably. Start at the end closest to the drain outlet and gradually work your way to the other end, removing loose debris as you go.
 
Second, use a hose to spray a steady stream of water through the gutters towards the drain outlet. This will help remove any stubborn dirt and debris that may still be holding on from when you were scooping.
 
Third, be sure to check your drain pipes for any blockage. In some instances, rainstorms can force material into the pipes, causing potentially severe damage. A good way to detect if your drain pipes are blocked is if you see a trickle of water rather than a flow coming from them. If this is the case, try using a hose at the top of the gutter and spray directly into the outlet to help clear any congestion.
 
Following these steps will help prevent your gutters and storm drains from taking on damage from blockage and build-up. If you experience any major damage like indoor flooding give SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East a call at (361) 985-6444 and our experts will be there to help you resolve and repair the issue!

Your Generator Maintenance Guide | SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Typical Standby Generator Maintenance

With the crazy weather patterns in Corpus Christi the past year, it is important to be prepared in the event of another disaster. We recommend having a generator handy in the event the storm impacts last days on end. In order to ensure your generator is functioning properly take these maintenance tips into consideration. 

The typical life expectancy for a generator is between 20,000 and 30,000 hours, serving a crucial role while waiting for a storm restoration company to come to your business. 

Weekly
You are going to need to perform small maintenance tasks every week. These include:

• Running the engine
• Checking for alarms or warnings
• Ensuring adequate fuel levels for an emergency
• Setting the engine to auto mode
• Checking that the circuit breaker is closed
• Ensuring there are no leaks
  

Monthly
On a monthly basis, you will need to spend more time checking fluid levels, such as the coolant and oil. You should also check the battery to ensure you are ready for a disaster.

Bi-Annual
You are going to want to check the thermal protection levels every six months. At the same time, inspect the drive belts to ensure they have the proper tension and are in good condition.

Annual
A certified technician will need to come out every year and perform crucial tasks, such as changing the engine oil, fuel filter, air filter, and spark plugs. If any extra maintenance is needed, like a coolant system flush, your technician will perform these items at your annual service. 

Taking precautions like this can have many benefits for your home or business. The primary one is that you put off replacing your equipment longer. If you are looking to push the maximum number of hours and avoid generator problems, you need to consider required preventative maintenance.

For any storm related damage, call the storm professionals at (361) 985-6444.

3 Things You Should Not Do After a Flood in Your Corpus Christi East Home

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

When dealing with floodwater, many homeowners are tempted to put themselves or their families at risk in an effort to save their home or their possessions. These are three things you should not do after a flood.  

Don't Stay in Your Home 
After a flood, there is not much you can do to prevent damage by staying. If you have time, you can place sandbags, move possessions to higher ground, board up windows and take other precautions, but once flooding is imminent, it is best to evacuate to a shelter. Attempting to remain in your home puts you at risk of drowning, electrocution, and contact with contaminants in the water. It also puts the emergency workers who will have to assist you if you get in trouble at risk.  
  

Don't Rely on Do-It-Yourself Solutions 
You may be able to repair the water damage from a minor flood yourself, but when major flooding occurs, by the time it is safe to re-enter buildings, the damage is usually too severe for most do-it-yourself attempts to be successful. Have a plan in place to deal with the floodwater. Contact your insurance company. Don't count on being able to obtain equipment, such as generators, protective gear, and pumps, that you would need to attempt to dry out your property yourself.  

Don't Walk or Drive Through Standing Water Downed power lines can electrify standing water, posing an electrocution risk. As little as six inches of water can damage your car and cause traction issues. Flood water poses significant risks to homeowners attempting to salvage their property after a flood. It is best to let your insurance company and restoration professionals take the lead and avoid putting yourself at risk, in most cases. 

Flooding Can Happen Anywhere | SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Cities all across America experience flooding to some extent. According to the National Weather Service, common sources of floods include: 

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Although Corpus Christi is not known to experience heavy snow, residents often travel to where it does snow and should be wary of the potential flooding impacts. On the contrary, Corpus Christi residents do experience large amounts of rainfall, flash flooding, river flooding, and systems. 

After a flood, you should tune in to your local news for updates and pertinent information. Always avoid floodwater and any damage such as fallen trees. Be sure to contact loved ones that might have also been affected by the flood to make sure they are fine.

If your home or business experiences a flood, SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East can assist! We can get your back to your preloss condition in no time. We help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Using Technology During a Storm | SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Technology can cause stress and sometimes is more of a burden than helpful. However, in the case of emergencies such as natural disasters, it can be extremely helpful for keeping you updated and letting friends and family know where you are. You more than likely already have the technology in your home to keep you and your family safe during a disaster, so follow these tips to use it effectively!

Remember, always be sure to keep portable charges ready in your emergency kit so you can always access your technology when you need it most.

Social Media for News

Using social media is a great way to get up-to-date news straight to your smartphone. Almost all local and national government has social media pages that are updated regularly, especially during a natural disaster. 

Mark Yourself Safe

Another way to use social media is to mark yourself safe. Facebook offers a feature called Safety Check that allows you to mark yourself safe if you are in the area of a dangerous situation. Marking yourself safe lets friends and family know that although you are in the area of disaster, you are safe. The Red Cross offers a similar feature called Safe & Well which is both an app and website where you can mark yourself as safe for friends and family. 

Use Online Storage

Services like Google Drive and DropBox are a great way to store personal information online in a safe manner. Keeping copies of identification cards, passports, insurance policies, medical records, and pet information is important if your documents get lost in a disaster or you forget them when you are evacuating. You can also access DropBox and Google drive on any computer or phone, just make sure you remember your password!

Create an Emergency READY Profile

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East  offers an Emergency Ready Profile or ERP for free. Creating an ERP will help prepare your property or business in the event of a disaster.  Creating this profile will help prevent interruption by having an immediate plan of action and setting SERVPRO® Corpus Christi East as your main point of contact in the case of an emergency. We will have all the information on file needed to make sure mitigation and restoration go smoothly. 

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East  should be your first choice for any residential or commercial restoration due to our experience and 24/7/365 service. Contact us today if you are interested in signing up for an ERP or have questions or concerns about a recent property disaster. 

How to Use Technology During a Natural Disaster | SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Technology can cause stress and sometimes is more of a burden than helpful. However, in the case of emergencies such as natural disasters, it can be extremely helpful for keeping you updated and letting friends and family know where you are. You more than likely already have the technology in your home to keep you and your family safe during a disaster, so follow these tips to use it effectively!

Remember, always be sure to keep portable charges ready in your emergency kit so you can always access your technology when you need it most.

Social Media for News

Using social media is a great way to get up-to-date news straight to your smartphone. Almost all local and national government has social media pages that are updated regularly, especially during a natural disaster. 

Mark Yourself Safe

Another way to use social media is to mark yourself safe. Facebook offers a feature called Safety Check that allows you to mark yourself safe if you are in the area of a dangerous situation. Marking yourself safe lets friends and family know that although you are in the area of disaster, you are safe. The Red Cross offers a similar feature called Safe & Well which is both an app and website where you can mark yourself as safe for friends and family. 

Use Online Storage

Services like Google Drive and DropBox are a great way to store personal information online in a safe manner. Keeping copies of identification cards, passports, insurance policies, medical records, and pet information is important if your documents get lost in a disaster or you forget them when you are evacuating. You can also access DropBox and Google drive on any computer or phone, just make sure you remember your password!

Create an Emergency READY Profile

SERVPRO® of Corpus Christi East offers an Emergency Ready Profile or ERP for free. Creating an ERP will help prepare your property or business in the event of a disaster.  Creating this profile will help prevent interruption by having an immediate plan of action and setting SERVPRO® of Corpus Christi East as your main point of contact in the case of an emergency. We will have all the information on file needed to make sure mitigation and restoration go smoothly. 

SERVPRO® of Corpus Christi East should be your first choice for any residential or commercial restoration due to our experience and 24/7/365 service. Contact us today if you are interested in signing up for an ERP or have questions or concerns about a recent property disaster. 

Quick Tips for Storm Safety with SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Cooler weather in Corpus Christi is a great time to enjoy the great outdoors, but when sudden storms pop up, staying safe is of paramount importance. Thunderstorms may come and go quickly, but while they are in the area, they can cause flash flooding and a concerning amount of damage.

While the safest place to be during a storm is at home, if a sudden storm pops up when you are away, here are some practical tips for safety.

Practical Tips for Staying Safe From Sudden Storms

Know your options for shelter. When you are made aware of a severe weather scenario and are safely at home, remaining there is the best thing you can do so you can wait out the storm. However, this is a luxury that will not always be present. If you are caught out in a storm, you can shelter in your car as long as you can pull over safely and cut off your engine. Remember to park your vehicle on high ground when possible.

Practice electrical safety. A lightning strike can hurt a structure in many ways, but the most common way is via a power surge. As the lightning travels through the home’s electrical system, the wires will become overwhelmed with charge and transfer that to anything plugged into an outlet. If you can, go through the area you are in and unplug everything before a storm. In general, it is best to also have surge protectors throughout your home and office.

Avoid direct contact with concrete. Concrete structures are so sturdy in part because of how they are built. As concrete is poured around metal, it creates a great structure—but also causes a concern if there is lightning nearby. The metal in concrete can disperse electricity if the building is struck by lightning, so avoid touching these surfaces directly if possible.

Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes. If you are out enjoying the day when a storm rolls in, make sure you are not rushing back out too soon and putting yourself in danger. Lightning strikes can travel tremendous distances, causing officials to urge people to stay inside for at least half an hour after the last clap of thunder. 

If your home sustains damage due to a storm, you can count on us to help. Contact SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East to learn more about our storm restoration process.

Hurricane Pet Safety Tips

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricane Safety

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East wants to help you and your furry friends stay safe during this hurricane season. Being prepared for hurricane season is a must when living in South Texas and its always better to know your course of action sooner than later. Having a hurricane safety supplies set aside for your pet is a great way to start preparing. Make sure you have a picture of your pet, proof of vaccinations, and ID tags on your pets’ collars or harnesses. Looking up Pet-Friendly shelters and hotels can save you trouble in the long run.  Hurricane season can be a stressful time, but being prepared and having an emergency plan can help with unnecessary accidents. For more information visit https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/evr_multi_hurricane_safety_tips.

“A disaster is a chaotic time for humans; just imagine how your pet may feel! Your dog or cat or any companion animal is bound to be stressed and/or scared,” says Burke.

Do you have an Emergency Ready Profile?

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East

Hurricane season is only a few weeks away, and it's time to start thinking if your business is ready. The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it NOW. 

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it's a small water leak, a large fire, or a hurricane.  No one ever plans on a disaster, but pre-planning gives you the peace of mind that you are ready for whatever happens.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  It's a guide designed for your business to help you get back into your building following a disaster.  It serves as a quick reference of important building and contact information, such as where water or electrical shut-offs are-or your emergency contacts.  Having a quick reference for what to do, how to do it, and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

This assessment has no cost to you and contains only the critical information you need in the event of an emergency.  The ERP has all your important information electronically and can access it 24/7 on a desktop or app on your phone. We will also provide a hard copy for your records.

Call us today at (361)985-6444 to get started on your free profile!

Hurricane Season 2020

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East

Hurricane season is right around the corner, and SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East wants to help you be better informed for this upcoming season. Hurricane hazards can include tropical depressions, tropical storms and of course hurricanes. These hazards can bring destructive tornadoes, winds and even rip currents and high surf.  Here are 5 lists of things to know. Please follow the link for more information.  weather.gov/safety/hurricane-plan

1. Storm surge is a large amount of water generated by a storm’s wind and is one of the leading causes of hurricane-related deaths in the USA. These surges can cause a massive amount of destruction along the coast and can travel miles inland.
2. Flooding from the heavy rain is the second cause of deaths from tropical cyclones. This can potentially be destructive due to the number of days the rain persists after the storm has passed.
3. Winds from a hurricane can be destructive due to signs and any outdoor furniture or materials left outside.
4. Tornadoes can accompany hurricanes making landfall. These tornadoes typically occur in rain bands well away from the center of the storm.
5. These waves contain rip currents and can cause damage to structures along the coastline.

Stay safe this hurricane season.

This Is Our Storm

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East

Unfortunately, these times are comparable to a storm disaster, but this is a storm the entire world is experiencing at once. This deadly pandemic has reminded us that hurricanes or other storms all have a common element that can ultimately help guide us in how to respond to the chaos around our life.  Like our city leaders and other officials, they prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, and have taken guidance and noticed what other hard-hit cities are doing to prepare for possible cases of the virus. COVID-19 is like a storm disrupting our way of living. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t be prepared. According to cdc.gov here are some helpful tips below.

• There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease in 2019.
• The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
• The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
• Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
• Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
• These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
• Some recent studies have suggested the COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.
• Consider whether you can work from home
• Wash hands for at least 20 seconds
• Stay home if you’re sick
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Wear a facemask if you are sick
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces

Stay safe and healthy from SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East.

Disasters are Unpredictable

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding in the garage due to a storm.

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East understands that disasters are unpredictable.  As we all know hurricane season can be very stressful especially when there are tropical storms brewing. However, we want to help relieve some of the stress with a few helpful tips. It's important to protect your home ahead of time so that you can limit the damage. One way is to purchase hurricane shutters or have plywood cutouts for all your windows. Another important tip is to make sure you secure your outdoor items, this can prevent any items such as potted plants, and lawn chairs to cause damage to your property due to high winds. If you are evacuating a storm, and are leaving a vehicle behind, it's important to park your vehicle on higher ground. It only takes two feet of water to carry a vehicle away.  Another important tip is to record or video all your belongings. This could potentially be a helpful way to provide information to your insurance company if a disaster should strike your property. Let's hope South Texas doesn't have another Harvey, but if we do let's be better prepared for tomorrow.

Flood Cut

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Flood cut

Did you know that the storm surge and flooding from a hurricane can cause the most damage to properties?  When your home or business is damaged by rising water, the drywall and other building materials affected by that contaminated floodwater need to be removed.  It's common practice to remove all the drywall and insulation that is wet, usually two foot up from the floor.  When you hear a company or your insurance adjuster, recommending a two-foot flood cut - this is what they are referring to.  Of course, if the floodwater was higher, anything contaminated needs to be removed.  Our technicians are trained and have the equipment to know what materials need to be removed, and then what it will take to dry the wood framing exposed by those cuts.  We are at the peak of hurricane season, so your friends at SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East are always here to help. 

Hurricane Peak Season

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

For more information please follow this link: https://www.wunderground.com/weather-infographics/hurricane-formation

Did you know that mid-August and September are the most active months of the hurricane season? Hurricane Harvey made landfall on August 25th - almost to the day of Katrina Hurricane Katrina made landfall.  According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), we seem to experience a spike in hurricane activity during these months.  NOAA is anticipating 2019 to be a near-normal hurricane season. They predict 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes for this year. Don't wait to have an evacuation route or a hurricane preparedness kit on hand at your home or office. If you are interested in an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP), don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East at (361)-985-6444. We are happy to help.

Disaster Recovery Team

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East

During a large storm response, SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East is not alone when it comes to deploying resources to serve the community. We have multiple Disaster Recovery Teams (DRT) strategically positioned throughout the United States ready to assist should a disaster strike the Corpus Christi area. The Disaster Recovery Teams are composed of the best of the best in restoration. During the recent events due to Hurricane Harvey, many of these teams helped serve Corpus Christi and the surrounding areas. Disaster Response Teams are ready for whatever happens should a tornado, flood or hurricane strike. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, our highly trained professionals are ready to assist. As the storms roll out, SERVPRO rolls in to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Storm Update for the Month of August

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

The 2018 Hurricane Season outlook has been updated w/ lower numbers predicted, due to developing El Nino, cooler Atlantic water temps & several other factors. Regardless, you should still have your hurricane plans in place as we approach the peak of the season. It only takes one!

In a separate analysis, atmospheric scientists at Colorado State University forecast an “average” season with 13 named storms, six becoming hurricanes. They find that the Atlantic has cooled a bit in the last two months, making it less conducive to fueling strong storms.

It is very difficult to predict when a hurricane may occur, however it isn’t difficult to prepare for a disaster such as a hurricane. SERVPRO offers literature through blogs and brochures that deal with hurricane preparedness. We also provide an Emergency Readiness Profile for businesses to have a plan if a disaster ever occurs.

Storm Readiness

6/24/2018 (Permalink)

Storms have the potential to destroy anything in its path.

2017 was a tough year when it came to storms. Most of Texas felt the danger that storms possess and can cause. Storm season, in Texas is June through November with August and September being the worst months for storms. For 2018, NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting a 75-percent chance that the hurricane season will be near- or above-normal.  The best ways to stay safe is to be informed. Today there are many outlets for news whether its: news channels, weather apps, social media or radio. It’s always best to listen to your local news because the city government can release information faster that way.

If a local government is giving orders to evacuate make sure to follow the best you can. Plan accordingly for the trip and make sure all priority belongings are with you.  If you are in an area that does not have evacuation orders, be sure you have your supplies ready.  Visit www.ready.gov to get information on how to prepare for a hurricane.  Your home and belongings can be replaced, however you can’t. It is best to stay alert and be willing to relocate if necessary.

After the storm has passed, SERVPRO of Corpus Christi East is here to help – give us a call at 361-985-6444.