Recent Posts
Top 5 Household Areas Prone to Mold Growth and How to Prevent It
3/11/2025 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Reston-Herndon deals with mold damage in many different areas of the home. Mold growth is a common problem in many households, posing risks to both property and health. Mold thrives in damp, dark, and humid environments, often going unnoticed until it becomes a significant issue. Knowing where mold is most likely to grow can help you take preventative measures. Here are the top five household areas prone to mold growth and tips to prevent it.
1. Bathrooms
Bathrooms are a prime location for mold due to high humidity levels from showers, baths, and sinks. Moisture can accumulate on walls, ceilings, and tiles, providing the perfect conditions for mold to thrive.
Common Mold Hotspots:
Prevention Tips:
Use an exhaust fan or open a window during and after showers to reduce humidity.
Regularly clean and dry shower surfaces and curtains.
Fix any leaky faucets or pipes immediately.
Use mold-resistant paint and materials in bathroom renovations.
2. Kitchens
Kitchens also see frequent moisture from cooking, dishwashing, and refrigerator condensation. Leftover food crumbs and organic materials add to the problem, providing nutrients for mold.
Common Mold Hotspots:
Prevention Tips:
Wipe down surfaces regularly and clean up spills promptly.
Use a dehumidifier or exhaust fan to reduce humidity during cooking.
Check for leaks in plumbing and around appliances.
Empty and clean trash bins frequently.
3. Basements
Basements are notorious for mold growth due to their dark, damp conditions and proximity to the ground. Poor ventilation and occasional flooding make them especially vulnerable.
Common Mold Hotspots:
Walls and floors, particularly concrete
Around water heaters and HVAC systems
Stored items, especially cardboard boxes and fabrics
Prevention Tips:
Install a dehumidifier to maintain low humidity levels.
Seal foundation cracks and ensure proper drainage away from the home.
Elevate stored items off the floor and use plastic bins instead of cardboard.
Insulate pipes to prevent condensation.
4. Attics
Mold in attics often results from poor ventilation or roof leaks. Warm air from the home rises and condenses in the cooler attic space, creating moisture that can lead to mold.
Common Mold Hotspots:
Prevention Tips:
Ensure proper ventilation with vents or fans.
Inspect the roof regularly for leaks or damaged shingles.
Install proper insulation to prevent condensation.
Check and clean attic vents to keep airflow unobstructed.
5. Laundry Rooms
Laundry rooms are often warm and humid, especially if there’s inadequate ventilation. Washing machines, particularly front-loading models, can trap moisture and become breeding grounds for mold.
Common Mold Hotspots:
Prevention Tips:
Leave washing machine doors open after use to allow drying.
Clean washing machine seals and dispensers regularly.
Vent dryers properly to the outside of the home.
Fix any leaks promptly and wipe down wet surfaces.
Conclusion
Understanding where mold is most likely to grow in your home is the first step to preventing it. By addressing these high-risk areas with proper maintenance and preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of mold growth and protect your family’s health and your property. If mold does appear, act quickly to clean it or seek professional remediation services to prevent further damage.
The True Cost of Water Damage: Understanding Insurance and Restoration Expenses | SERVPRO of Reston-Herndon
3/11/2025 (Permalink)
Water damage is one of the most common and costly problems homeowners face. Whether it’s caused by a burst pipe, a leaky roof, or a natural disaster, water damage can lead to significant property loss, long-term structural issues, and health hazards like mold growth. While the immediate priority after water damage occurs is stopping the source of the problem and minimizing further damage, one of the biggest concerns for homeowners is the cost of restoration and the role insurance plays in covering those expenses.
Understanding the true cost of water damage and navigating the complexities of insurance claims can be overwhelming. In this post, we'll break down the typical costs involved in water damage restoration and how homeowners can manage their insurance claims to ensure they receive the compensation they need.
The Immediate Financial Impact of Water Damage
When water damage occurs, the cost of restoration can vary widely depending on the severity and extent of the damage. In the initial stages, homeowners are primarily concerned with stopping the source of the water and preventing further damage, but even this initial response can come with costs:
Water Removal: If you’re dealing with a significant water incident, you’ll likely need professional water extraction. Industrial pumps, vacuums, and other equipment are often required to remove large amounts of water, which can cost between $500 and $1,500 depending on the amount of water and size of the affected area.
Drying and Dehumidifying: Once the water is removed, professionals will need to dry the affected areas to prevent further damage and mold growth. High-powered air movers and dehumidifiers are used for this, with the average cost ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. This can increase if the water has seeped into hard-to-reach areas, such as behind walls or under flooring.
Sanitizing and Cleaning: Depending on the type of water (clean water, gray water, or black water), the cost of cleaning can vary. For example, if your water damage is from a contaminated source like a sewage backup, cleaning costs can rise significantly due to the need for specialized cleaning agents and safety precautions. These services can range from $500 to $2,000.
Mold Remediation: If water damage is not addressed quickly, mold can begin to form within 24 to 48 hours. Mold removal and remediation can be particularly expensive, costing anywhere from $500 to $6,000 or more, depending on the size of the infestation.
These are just the immediate costs of addressing water damage, but there are often additional hidden expenses that can escalate the total restoration cost.
Hidden Costs of Water Damage
Beyond the visible damage, water can cause long-term structural issues that may not be immediately apparent. For example:
Structural Damage: Water can weaken the foundation, warp wood beams, and damage drywall, which could lead to expensive structural repairs. The cost of repairing damaged walls, ceilings, and floors can range from $1,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the extent of the damage.
Electrical Damage: Water can compromise your home’s electrical system, which poses a safety hazard and may require rewiring or replacement of electrical outlets, circuit breakers, or appliances. Repairing water-damaged electrical systems can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity.
HVAC System: If water reaches your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, the costs of repairing or replacing damaged components can be significant, ranging from $2,000 to $10,000.
These additional costs are why water damage restoration can become such an expensive endeavor. To minimize these expenses, quick action is critical, but so is understanding how your insurance policy works in the event of water damage.
What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?
The good news is that many homeowners insurance policies cover water damage, but there are important distinctions to be aware of. Understanding the differences between types of water damage and what your policy specifically covers can save you a lot of stress.
Covered Water Damage: Most standard homeowners insurance policies will cover water damage caused by sudden and accidental events. This can include things like:
- Burst pipes
- Accidental overflows (from appliances, toilets, etc.)
- Damage from roof leaks (provided the damage wasn’t caused by neglect)
- Storm damage, such as rainwater or wind-driven water entering the home due to damage caused by the storm.
Excluded Water Damage: However, many policies exclude certain types of water damage, especially if it’s due to neglect or lack of maintenance. Common exclusions include:
- Gradual leaks that were not addressed in a timely manner (e.g., a slow leak under a sink).
- Damage due to poor maintenance or old roofing.
- Sewer backups (unless you’ve specifically added this coverage).
- Flood damage (this requires separate flood insurance).
It’s important to read your policy carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered, and to consider adding additional coverage for things like sewer backups and floods, which are often excluded from standard policies.
Filing a Water Damage Insurance Claim
If your home has suffered water damage, filing an insurance claim can help you cover the costs of repairs and restoration, but the process can be complex. Here are the steps to follow:
Document the Damage: As soon as you notice water damage, take photos and videos of the affected areas. This documentation will be critical when you file your claim.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Many companies have specific time frames in which you must report the damage to be eligible for coverage.
Mitigate Further Damage: Insurance policies generally require homeowners to take steps to prevent further damage. This might involve temporarily patching a roof or using tarps to cover damaged areas. Failing to do so could result in your claim being denied.
Get Professional Estimates: Once you’ve contacted your insurer, they may send out an adjuster to assess the damage. It’s also a good idea to get independent estimates from water damage restoration professionals to ensure that the adjuster’s estimate is accurate.
Work With Your Insurance Adjuster: The insurance adjuster will evaluate the damage and provide an estimate for repairs. Make sure you discuss all the areas of damage, including any hidden or long-term issues that might arise.
Keep Receipts and Invoices: Keep all documentation, including receipts for temporary repairs, invoices from contractors, and any other related expenses. You’ll need these when negotiating your final settlement.
How to Avoid Unexpected Out-of-Pocket Costs
Even with insurance, it’s common for homeowners to face unexpected out-of-pocket costs when dealing with water damage. Here’s how to minimize those expenses:
Review Your Deductible: Make sure you understand how much your deductible is. The deductible is the amount you’ll need to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in.
Ask About Depreciation: Some insurance policies only pay for the depreciated value of damaged items, rather than the cost to replace them. Make sure you know what type of coverage you have—Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV).
Consider Supplemental Insurance: If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider purchasing flood insurance. Similarly, if you’re worried about sewer backups, ask your insurer about adding that to your policy.
Conclusion
The true cost of water damage can be staggering, but with the right insurance policy and a clear understanding of the restoration process, you can minimize both your expenses and the stress involved. Being proactive about home maintenance, understanding your insurance coverage, and acting quickly in the event of water damage are all key to reducing both immediate and long-term costs.
While insurance can help offset many of the costs of water damage restoration, there can be out-of-pocket expenses that can catch homeowners off guard. By reviewing your policy carefully, ensuring you have the right coverage, and taking quick action when damage occurs, you’ll be better prepared to handle the financial impact of water damage.
Fire Damage of Reston - Herndon
3/5/2025 (Permalink)
SERVPRO's fire cleanup services involve more than just cleaning up debris. The process is designed to address all aspects of fire damage, including structural, cosmetic, and health-related concerns. Their team is trained to handle the full range of fire damage, including smoke damage, soot removal, odor mitigation, and structural repair.
Here’s a breakdown of what SERVPRO's fire cleanup services typically involve:
1. Emergency Contact and Assessment
After a fire, time is of the essence. SERVPRO offers 24/7 emergency services, so their teams can arrive quickly to begin assessing the damage. This initial assessment involves identifying the fire's impact on the structure, materials, and belongings, as well as the specific challenges posed by smoke and soot damage.
2. Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Services
If necessary, SERVPRO can provide board-up and roof-tarp services to secure the property. This helps prevent further damage from the elements or vandalism while the cleaning and restoration process begins. Boarding up windows, doors, and other openings keeps the building secure until repairs can be made.
3. Smoke and Soot Damage Cleanup
One of the most challenging aspects of fire cleanup is dealing with smoke and soot. Smoke can spread quickly and penetrate deep into materials, leaving behind lingering odors and staining. SERVPRO's team uses advanced cleaning techniques and specialized equipment to remove soot and smoke residues from surfaces, including walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture.
Different types of smoke require different approaches:
- Wet smoke: The residue from slow-burning fires, often sticky and pungent, which can cause significant damage to surfaces.
- Dry smoke: Residue from fast-burning fires, which is lighter and easier to clean but can still stain and cause damage.
- Protein smoke: Typically from burning food, it leaves a fine, invisible residue that can discolor paint and walls.
- Fuel oil smoke: Typically a concern in industrial settings, this smoke residue can be greasy and difficult to clean.
SERVPRO’s technicians are skilled in identifying the type of smoke residue and applying the appropriate cleaning methods.
4. Odor Removal and Deodorization
Fire-related odors are particularly stubborn. Even after visible soot and smoke damage is addressed, lingering odors can remain for days, weeks, or even longer. SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art odor removal techniques to eliminate smoke odors, including air scrubbers, thermal fogging, and ozone machines. These methods help neutralize odors at their source rather than just masking them.
5. Cleaning and Sanitizing Personal Belongings
Fire damage often extends to personal belongings, including furniture, clothing, electronics, and documents. SERVPRO offers contents cleaning services to clean and restore items that can be salvaged. For sensitive items, they may use specialized cleaning methods, such as ultrasonic cleaning, to gently remove soot and smoke residues without causing further damage.
6. Water Damage Restoration (if applicable)
In many cases, fires are fought with water, which can lead to additional water damage to the property. SERVPRO provides water damage restoration services, including water extraction, drying, and dehumidification. Their advanced equipment helps to prevent mold growth and minimize long-term water damage to your property.
7. Structural Cleaning and Restoration
Fires can cause significant structural damage, whether it’s from the heat, smoke, or water used to extinguish the flames. SERVPRO offers full structural cleaning and restoration services. They remove charred materials, repair structural damage, and rebuild any areas that were severely impacted. They can also address issues with HVAC systems, which may have been contaminated by smoke or soot.
8. Document and Artwork Restoration
Documents, books, and artwork are often damaged during a fire, either by smoke, soot, or water used to extinguish the flames. SERVPRO’s contents restoration team can help restore these items using specialized techniques like freeze-drying, which preserves them without causing further damage.
9. Reconstruction Services
In cases of significant fire damage, SERVPRO offers reconstruction services. Their team can handle major repairs, from structural rebuilding to finishing touches like painting and flooring installation. This allows for a full-service restoration, bringing your property back to pre-fire condition.
Why Choose SERVPRO for Fire Cleanup?
3/5/2025 (Permalink)
Rapid Response
SERVPRO’s team is available 24/7 and can respond quickly to minimize further damage. A fast response helps reduce the overall impact of fire damage and can save you money in the long run.
Comprehensive Services
SERVPRO offers a one-stop solution for fire cleanup, including board-up services, water damage restoration, smoke and soot cleanup, odor removal, and reconstruction. This ensures that every aspect of the cleanup and restoration process is handled with expertise.
Industry Expertise
SERVPRO’s technicians are highly trained in fire cleanup and restoration. They have the knowledge and experience to handle even the most complex fire damage scenarios, using advanced equipment and techniques to restore your property.
Insurance Assistance
SERVPRO works with insurance companies and can help guide you through the claims process. Their documentation and detailed reports can assist in filing claims, making the entire process smoother and less stressful.
Advanced Equipment and Techniques
SERVPRO uses the latest technology, including air scrubbers, industrial vacuums, and thermal foggers, to provide the most effective fire damage cleanup. Their techniques are designed to restore your property to its pre-fire condition as efficiently and thoroughly as possible.
Compassionate, Professional Service
Dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be emotionally overwhelming. SERVPRO’s team approaches each project with empathy and professionalism, helping you navigate this challenging time.
September is National Storm Preparedness
8/30/2024 (Permalink)
September is National Preparedness Month! We here at SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon know that fall storms can be unpredictable and devastating, so being as prepared as possible is key.
Here are some tips to make sure you’re ready for storm related emergencies:
- Make A Plan. Make sure your family has a set plan on what to do in different storm situations. It is also good to have plans in place at your business to ensure the safety of your employees.
- Build A Kit. Storms are unpredictable, and you never know if you might get trapped. Be sure to have non-perishable food items, bottled water, blankets, medication, flares, anything you may need if stuck for several days or longer.
- Prepare For Disasters. Knowing the condition of your home, the severity and timing of past storms, and having a plan will help you be prepared for a storm disaster. You want to know any risks your property has in advance if possible.
- Teach Youth About Preparedness. Make sure your kids know exactly what todo in different storm scenarios. It is possible you will be separated from them, so they need to have an idea of where to go and what to do in order to be safe. There are lots of resources available to help you have these conversations.
Download the FEMA app for disaster resources, weather alerts, and safety tips. If you have any questions regarding National Preparedness Month, please call 703-471-6040.
https://www.ready.gov/september
The Dangers of DIY Sewage Cleanup
8/21/2024 (Permalink)
Experiencing a sewage backup in your home or business can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. While it may be tempting to try to tackle the problem yourself to save some money, attempting a DIY sewage cleanup can be hazardous and ultimately, more costly in the long run. In this blog post, we will explore the dangers of attempting to clean up sewage on your own and explain why it's best to call in professionals like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon for water damage restoration and sewage cleanup services.
Understanding the Health Risks Associated with DIY Sewage Cleanup
Sewage backups can be both hazardous and potentially deadly when homeowners attempt to address the issue themselves. Sewage can consist of greywater (from utilities like sinks, tubs, showers, and dishwashers) or, even worse, black water, which is the water used to flush toilets mixed with the human waste that it flushes away. Besides human waste, chemical compounds and cleansers in sewage produce phosphorus and nitrogen pollution that can damage waterways and pose serious risks when entering your home. Sewage backups in your home can result from various causes, such as clogs in the home's drain pipes, tree roots, damaged sewer lines, and more.
Sewage contains up to one million microorganisms per millimeter of waste, some of which are vital for breaking down solid waste. However, pathogenic bacteria are also present and can cause health problems such as Hepatitis A and Encephalitis. Due to its ability to seep into porous materials, sewage is challenging to clean up by hand.
Furthermore, sewage contains parasitic microorganisms, such as polio, adenovirus, and enteric cytopathic human orphan (ECHO) viruses, which can cause severe health issues in humans. While the ratio of viruses to bacteria is relatively small, they are still harmful to your health. Wastewater also hosts pathogenic and saprophytic bacteria, including E. coli, Giardia Lamblia, Salmonella, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Direct exposure to these toxins can lead to intestinal diseases, typhoid fever, cholera, and dysentery. That is why coming into contact with sewage without wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and following proper procedures can pose a severe threat to your health.
Mold growth is another significant risk when attempting DIY sewage cleanup. Mold exposure can worsen allergy and asthma symptoms, especially in children and individuals with compromised immune systems. Flooding provides ideal conditions for mold to develop, as it only needs moisture, organic material, and optimal temperature. Alarmingly, mold can grow within just 24 to 48 hours of the incident.
However, the greatest danger is sometimes not the risk of disease, but the risk of electrocution or explosion. Never enter a flooded area or light matches until the utility companies have shut off the electric and gas service. If you detect or smell gas, immediately evacuate your home and notify the gas company. You should also enter your home with caution if you did not turn off the main power switch before the flooding occurred. Touching electrical lines, wires, equipment, and fixtures during and after a flood can be dangerous.
Addressing the underlying plumbing issue is crucial to prevent future sewage backups. Failing to fix the problem correctly can lead to recurring spills and increased costs. It's worth noting that most home insurance policies cover sewage cleanup, so hiring professionals like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is a practical and cost-effective solution.
The Importance of Proper Protective Gear and Equipment in Sewage Cleanup
8/21/2024 (Permalink)
Handling human waste or sewage comes with an increased risk of illness from waterborne diseases. Anyone involved in sewage cleanup must follow proper hygiene practices and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize the risk of contracting diseases such as the ones mentioned earlier in this article. SERVPRO® restoration technicians are trained to prioritize health and safety while dealing with sewage cleanup tasks.
Basic Hygiene Practices for Restoration Technicians
- Always wash hands with soap and water after handling human waste or sewage, before eating or drinking, and before and after using the toilet.
- Avoid touching your face, mouth, eyes, nose, or open sores and cuts while handling human waste or sewage.
- Keep open sores, cuts, and wounds covered with clean, dry bandages.
- Use waterproof gloves to prevent cuts and contact with human waste or sewage.
- Wear rubber boots at the worksite and during transport of human waste or sewage.
- Refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco or gum while handling human waste or sewage.
- Gently flush eyes with safe water if human waste or sewage contacts them.
Restoration techs who handle human waste or sewage are always provided with proper PPE, training on how to use it, and handwashing facilities. The following PPE is typically required for restoration technicians handling human waste or sewage:
- Goggles: to protect eyes from splashes of human waste or sewage.
- Protective face mask or splash-proof face shield: to protect nose and mouth from splashes of human waste or sewage.
- Liquid-repellent coveralls: to keep human waste or sewage off clothing.
- Waterproof gloves: to prevent exposure to human waste or sewage.
- Rubber boots: to prevent exposure to human waste or sewage.
To further protect restoration technicians from exposure, employees are typically required to have their Tetanus vaccinations up to date, and in most cases polio, typhoid fever, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B vaccinations as well. Adhering to these best practices and procedures ensures the health and safety of workers handling sewage cleanup tasks. That is also why sewage cleanup and related water damage restoration can become more expensive and dangerous for a DIY restorer.
Carpet Cleaning | Reston/Herndon
4/9/2024 (Permalink)
When you have a business that your clients walk into on a daily basis, presentation is everything and having nice clean carpets goes a long way. It doesn't matter if it's commercial or residential we can do it all.
SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Contact us today at (703)471-6040.
Commercial Water Damage Experts Explain Drying Methods
4/9/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Works Hard to Mitigate Storm Damage to Your Place of Business
If your office complex in Reston/Herndon has multiple floors, problems like pipes breaking in other parts of the building could cause damage to your business as well. When water flows into your office from the ceiling, many problems can result. Moisture can cause ceiling tiles or drywall to become weak and fall onto the floor.
Water coming from the ceiling starts there and then spreads down the walls. Many commercial water damage projects involve removing moisture from ceilings, walls, contents, and flooring. Any time moisture stays inside a building more things get ruined, and foul odors develop as time passes.
The goal when SERVPRO works on any restoration project is to get all of the moisture out of the structure most quickly and efficiently. When working with businesses measures are taken not to hinder your routines. Depending on what happened, procedures can get changed so that you maintain your standard flow of revenue or activity.
In the cases where water invades your office from a floor above any water that is found on furniture or carpeting is removed with extraction equipment, a simple mop, and bucket or maybe just cloths and sponges. Our restoration technicians may be able to complete water extraction around your employee's cubicles and desks while they keep working and maintaining ordinary business procedures. After the extraction stage, the next step is to dry out moisture that cannot necessarily be seen.
Our technicians, beyond visual inspections, use monitoring devices to determine which materials in the office got wet. Once the location of the damaged areas is determined, air- moving and dehumidification systems get placed around the affected area. Our crew can position the drying tools around work areas inside your company's office, so disruptions are kept to the minimum.
The correct placement of this equipment is vital to speedy drying. Air movers are set up so that they blow air in a counterclockwise motion hitting all of the walls at a 45-degree angle. Air movers get placed against walls pointed upwards to dry out ceiling tiles. When moisture levels are higher than usual in the wall materials, the baseboard gets removed, and holes are drilled into the wall so that air can flow into the wall cavity and dry out the studs, any present insulation, and drywall cardboard backing.
Drying out moisture damaged materials inside an office complex can be more difficult than other buildings. Calling SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon at (703)471-6040 can save your business time and money
Do's & Don't | Reston/Herndon
4/8/2024 (Permalink)
DO:
- Shut off the water or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
- Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
- Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
- After removing lamps and tabletop items, wipe excess water from wood furniture.
- Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
- Remove any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive items to a safe, dry place.
- Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting and draperies off damp floors.
DON'T:
- Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
- Leave colored rugs/items on wet carpets or floors which mat cause staining.
- Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water.
- Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially wet concrete floors.
- Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
If services are needed please don't hesitate to contact us! 703-471-6040