Recent Posts

Burst Pipe Causes Water Damage to Home in Murrells Inlet?

9/30/2024 (Permalink)

A crack in a copper pipe has burst and is leaking water. We restore water damage 24/7 in Georgetown County.

Our local teams in Georgetown and Horry Counties are ready to respond to water damage emergencies in Murrells Inlet 24 hours a day. A burst or cracked pipe may start as a minor inconvenience, but it can quickly escalate into a significant problem, causing extensive property damage.

Cracks in pipes can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as freezing temperatures, corrosion, or physical impact. Even a tiny crack can allow water to seep out, damaging walls, floors, and ceilings.

Over time, constant exposure to moisture can weaken the structural elements of your home, promote mold growth, and damage electrical systems. In addition to the physical damage, a cracked pipe can significantly increase your water bill due to the continuous leak.

Identifying a burst or cracked pipe early is vital to minimizing damage. Look out for signs like unexplained damp spots, a drop in water pressure, or the sound of running water when no faucets are on. If you suspect a crack, it’s essential to turn off the water supply and contact a plumber immediately. Prompt repair of the cracked pipe can prevent further damage, saving you from costly maintenance and protecting the safety and comfort of your home.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Murrells Inlet has a water damage emergency, our local teams in Georgetown and Horry Counties are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 843-236-6278.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Mold Hitchhikers: How Pets and Clothing Can Lead to Mold Outbreaks in Plantersville?

9/24/2024 (Permalink)

A wet dog is shown. We are mold damage restoration leaders in Georgetown County.

Our local Georgetown and Horry Counties teams are leaders in mold damage remediation in Plantersville. Mold spores are notorious travelers, and your home could be their next destination without you even realizing it. Pets and clothing are common ways mold can sneak into your home. When you walk through a damp environment, such as a wooded area or a wet sidewalk, mold spores can cling to your shoes, clothes, and even your pets' fur. Once inside your home, these spores can settle in damp or humid areas, eventually leading to a mold outbreak.

Pets, beloved members of our families, can unwittingly become carriers of mold. Their outdoor adventures can lead to them bringing home more than just dirt. Mold spores can hitch a ride on their fur and paws, making them particularly effective at transporting mold. Similarly, your clothing and shoes can pick up mold spores, especially if you've been damp or near mold-prone areas like basements or crawl spaces.

Keeping your home well-ventilated and dry is crucial to minimizing the risk of a mold outbreak. Regularly clean your pets, especially after outdoor adventures, and inspect and clean your clothing and shoes when they come from potentially moldy environments. These small steps can help prevent mold from establishing a foothold in your home.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Plantersville has a mold problem, our local teams in Georgetown and Horry Counties are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 843-236-6278.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Safety Tips for Returning Home After a Hurricane Evacuation Lifts in Green Sea?

9/17/2024 (Permalink)

A hurricane evacuation route sign is shown. We are trained and certified to restore storm damage in Horry County.

Our local Georgetown and Horry Counties teams want everyone in Green Sea to return to their homes safely after a hurricane evacuation order is lifted. Here are some safety tips from the United States Department of Homeland Security:

If you evacuated for the storm, check with local officials both where you’re staying and back home before you travel.

  • If you are returning to disaster-affected areas, after significant events prepare for disruptions to daily activities and remember that returning home before storm debris is cleared is dangerous.
  • Let friends and family know before you leave and when you arrive.
  • Charge devices and consider getting back-up batteries in case power-outages continue.
  • Fill up your gas tank and consider downloading a fuel app to check for outages along your route.
  • Bring supplies such as water and non-perishable food for the car ride.
  • Avoid downed power or utility lines, they may be live with deadly voltage. Stay away and report them immediately to your power or utility company.
  • Only use generators outside and away from your home and NEVER run a generator inside a home or garage or connect it to your home's electrical system.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Green Sea sustains storm damage, our local teams in Georgetown and Horry Counties are Here to Help®. Call us today at 843-236-6278.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Severe Mold Infestation Discovered in Duford Residence?

9/10/2024 (Permalink)

A mold infestation that has eaten into insulation and drywall is shown. We are leaders in mold remediation services in Marion County.

Our local Georgetown and Horry Counties teams are trained and certified to restore mold damage in Duford, no matter how extensive the damage is. Mold damage in a home can range from minor to severe, and its impact evolves as time passes. Initially, mold growth might be barely noticeable, often manifesting as small, discolored patches on walls or ceilings.

As mold continues to thrive, especially in moisture, its severity increases. Over time, the mold can spread extensively, penetrating deeper into structural materials like wood and drywall. This advanced stage can lead to more significant structural damage and requires more invasive remediation efforts, including replacing affected materials.

In the most severe cases, mold damage can compromise the structural integrity of a building. Prolonged exposure to moisture allows mold to affect not only the surfaces but also the underlying infrastructure. This can lead to costly repairs and significant disruptions.

Addressing mold damage promptly and effectively is crucial to preventing the progression of minor issues to major problems. Regular inspections and maintenance, especially in moisture-prone areas, can help mitigate long-term damage and maintain the integrity of your home.

Call Us Today!

When you find a mold outbreak in your home or commercial business in Duford, our local teams in Georgetown and Horry Counties are Here to Help®. Call us today at 843-236-6278.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

When Pipes Break: Managing Water Damage in Commercial Spaces in Litchfield?

9/3/2024 (Permalink)

An old cast iron pipe breaks and floods a basement in a building. We restore commercial water damage 24/7 in Georgetown County.

Our local Georgetown and Horry Counties teams are leaders in commercial water damage restoration services in Litchfield. A broken pipe in a commercial business can lead to extensive water damage, disrupting operations and causing significant financial strain. Such incidents often occur unexpectedly and can quickly flood premises, affecting equipment, inventory, and the building's structural integrity.

The risk of pipe breakage increases with factors like aging infrastructure, fluctuating temperatures, and inadequate maintenance. A burst pipe can release gallons of water within minutes, soaking floors, walls, and furnishings. If not addressed promptly, this cannot only halt business activities but also lead to mold growth and long-term property damage.

Businesses must have a rapid response plan to minimize damage and downtime. This includes knowing the location of the main water shut-off valve and having contact information for emergency repair services. Regular maintenance of plumbing systems and insulation of pipes can also prevent such incidents, especially in areas prone to cold temperatures.

Additionally, businesses should consider investing in water leak detection systems that can alert managers to the presence of moisture before the damage becomes severe. By combining proactive maintenance with a solid action plan, businesses can take control and better manage the risks associated with water damage from broken pipes.

Call Us Today!

When your Litchfield commercial business or home has water damage, our local teams in Georgetown and Horry Counties are Here to Help®. Call us today at 843-236-6278.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Myrtle Beach Homes Damaged by Powerful Summer Storm?

8/27/2024 (Permalink)

A powerful storm surge sends waves crashing along the coastline. We are storm damage restoration leaders in Georgetown County.

Our local teams in Georgetown and Horry Counties restore storm damage in Myrtle Beach every year. Storm damage can severely damage your property when severe weather strikes, requiring prompt and professional restoration services. Our storm damage restoration services are designed to address the destruction caused by high winds, heavy rain, and flooding, ensuring your home is returned to its pre-storm condition.

We offer 24/7 emergency storm service because we understand storm damage doesn’t wait for business hours. Our teams are available around the clock to assess the damage, secure your property, and begin restoration immediately, minimizing further damage and reducing recovery time.

Homeowners trust us for our comprehensive storm restoration services. Whether your property has suffered from fallen trees, water intrusion, or structural damage, our highly trained storm and flood damage cleanup teams have the skills and experience to handle any situation. We use specialized equipment and advanced technology to remove debris, dry out water-damaged areas, and repair your home, ensuring a thorough restoration.

We also can assist with the insurance paperwork and process. Our team makes the claim process easier by working closely with your insurance company.

Call Us Today!

When your Myrtle Beach home or commercial business has storm damage, our local teams in Georgetown and Horry Counties are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 843-236-6278.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Broken Pipe Floods Georgetown Business Overnight?

8/20/2024 (Permalink)

A damaged pipe sprays large amounts of water. We are commercial water damage restoration leaders in Georgetown County.

Imagine arriving at your business one morning only to discover that a broken pipe has caused significant flooding overnight. Water damage can disrupt operations, cause structural damage, and lead to costly repairs. Immediate mitigation is essential to minimize the chances of secondary damage and get your business back on track.

Our local teams in Georgetown and Horry Counties offer 24-hour emergency service to handle such unforeseen disasters. Our fast emergency response time ensures that our highly trained technicians can be on-site promptly, minimizing the extent of the damage. As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, we bring extensive experience and a reputation for excellence to every job.

Our independently owned and operated franchise takes pride in serving the local Georgetown community with personalized care. We understand that every minute counts in a flooding emergency, so we utilize advanced restoration and cleaning equipment. This high-tech equipment allows us to efficiently remove water, dry affected areas, and restore your property to its pre-damage condition, giving you confidence in our ability to handle the situation.

Our team is committed to delivering the highest level of service from initial assessment to complete restoration. We work diligently to ensure your business can resume normal operations quickly. Trust our team of professionals to manage all phases of your water damage emergency with professionalism and efficiency, providing peace of mind during a challenging time.

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home has a water damage emergency, our local teams in Georgetown and Horry Counties are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 843-236-6278.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

4 Tasks Property Managers Should Do to Prepare for a Storm

7/24/2023 (Permalink)

4 tasks to help property managers storm prep.

Commercial property can't be completely ignored when inclement weather comes through, and business owners can't control all elements of storm preparedness, especially if they lease space. With that in mind, managers must take action, doing what they can to protect the assets. Here are four things they can do to help.

1. Establish Communication

Regular updates are important. People need to know if the area is safe or whether evacuation and boarding should occur. Furthermore, everyone should be on the same page about how to prepare for the storm and who has what responsibility. Therefore, property management should compile a list of everyone's phone numbers and email addresses. Send messages often, ensuring that everyone is aware of your progress. 

2. Have a Plan

Well before a storm appears, sit down and discuss the protocols for storm preparedness. Gather together and upload online important legal and financial documents: This includes contracts, mortgage papers, bank account numbers, and insurance policies. In addition, think ahead of whom to call in an emergency. 

3. Prepare the Grounds

Once a watch is issued, property management should begin looking at the facility. Are the shingles loose on the roofs? If so, have them secured or covered. Does the pool area require attention? Have employees clear the deck of any furniture. Also, walk around. Trim tree branches, and pick up any loose debris. Eliminate objects that could become projectiles from the high winds. 

4. Record the Property

Before the gales hit, grab your phone and videotape the building. Make sure this has a timestamp, verifying for insurance that you did attend to the location. Should leaks or structural problems occur, this evidence may help expedite the approval for a storm restoration company's services.

Be proactive. Management companies should consider storm preparedness early, mapping out their tasks and establishing a strong line of contact. Protect the space. It's valuable to many.

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialist Can Restore Your Property

6/9/2023 (Permalink)

We are faster to any size disaster!

SERVPRO of Horry & Georgetown County is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration, and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace

To Be IICRC Certified Firms must

  • Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
  • Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
  • Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
  • Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
  • Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

About SERVPRO of Horry & Georgetown

SERVPRO of Horry & Georgetown specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial properties 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.

Among being IICRC certified, here are some more certifications of SERVPRO of  Horry & Georgetown

Call us if your property experience any fire, smoke, or water damage at 843-236-6278.

Why Are Your Pipes Freezing?

3/15/2023 (Permalink)

When temperatures drop, water freezes and expands causing pipes to burst.

Temperatures outside must drop to 20 degrees or lower in order for a pipe to freeze. Homes built in southern climates can face problematic hard freezes due to homes not being built to accommodate cold temperatures.

Which Pipes Are Vulnerable to Freezing?

  • Pipes located on the outer walls of the home
  • Pipes located in unheated garages, attics, and crawl spaces
  • Copper pipes
  • Galvanized pipes
  • Uninsulated pipes

So What if Your Pipes Freeze?

When temperatures drop, water freezes and expands causing pipes to burst.

A burst pipe can result in a water leak. Ruptured pipes and water damage can cost thousands of dollars to repair. The amount of damage depends on where the burst occurs, how long it takes to catch the problem, and how much water is leaking from the pipe.

Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing.

  • Install Insulation
  • Insulate pipes on the outside of your home
  • When temperatures drop, open your faucets to a slow dribble
  • Open cabinets for warm air to circulate through your home
  • Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during the night and day
  • If you leave your home for extended periods of time leave your heat on at 55 degrees

What Do You Do if Your Pipes Freeze?

  1. Turn off the main water valve
  2. Call a professional plumber
  3. Call an IICRC-certified restoration & mitigation company

SERVPRO of Horry & Georgetown Water Restoration Process

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and remove odors and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call us at (843)236-6278 if you have any questions or concerns.