Winter Weather in Toledo West: How to Prepare Your Home

12/16/2024 (Permalink)

Winter weather in Toledo West can be unpredictable and harsh, often bringing heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and bitterly cold temperatures. While winter may create picturesque scenes, it also poses serious risks to your home if you're unprepared. Preparing for winter not only helps you avoid costly damage caused by snow, ice, and freezing temperatures but also ensures your family stays safe and comfortable during the cold months.

The Dangers of Winter Storms

Winter storms can lead to a range of issues for homeowners, from minor inconveniences to significant damage. Ice dams, caused by snow melting and refreezing at the edges of your roof, can result in water backing up into your home. Freezing temperatures can burst pipes, leading to flooding and water damage. Snow accumulation and ice can stress your roof and gutters, causing structural concerns. Taking proactive steps now can save you from the hassle and expense of dealing with these issues later.

Tips to Protect Your Home This Winter

1. Inspect and Prepare Your Roof and Gutters
   Check your roof for loose or damaged shingles and make necessary repairs to prevent leaks. Clear your gutters of leaves, debris, and any blockages to ensure proper drainage. When water freezes in clogged gutters, it can create heavy ice dams that damage your roof and siding.

2. Insulate Exposed Pipes
   Pipes located in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Wrap these pipes with insulation sleeves or heat tape and seal any drafts in these spaces to maintain warmer temperatures. Additionally, keeping indoor temperatures consistent—even when you're away—can prevent pipes from freezing.

3. Seal Windows and Doors
   Drafty windows and doors can allow cold air to seep into your home, making your heating system work harder and increasing energy costs. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal gaps and install storm windows or thermal curtains for added insulation.

4. Trim Overhanging Branches
   Heavy snow and ice can cause tree branches to snap and fall, potentially damaging your home, vehicles, or power lines. Trim back any overhanging limbs to reduce the risk of accidents during a storm.

5. Stock Up on Emergency Supplies
   Winter storms can bring power outages and make roads impassable, so it's essential to have an emergency kit ready. Include flashlights, batteries, a portable phone charger, non-perishable food, bottled water, warm clothing, blankets, and a first-aid kit. A backup heat source, like a generator or space heater, can also be invaluable.

6. Check Your Heating System
   Schedule a professional inspection of your furnace or heating system to ensure it’s running efficiently. Replace air filters regularly and clean your vents to improve air circulation. If you use a fireplace, have the chimney inspected and cleaned to prevent creosote buildup and fire hazards.

When Disaster Strikes, SERVPRO of Toledo West is Here to Help

Despite your best efforts, winter storms can sometimes lead to unexpected damage. Whether you’re dealing with water intrusion from an ice dam, burst pipes, or structural issues from heavy snow, SERVPRO of Toledo West has you covered. Our storm damage restoration experts are available 24/7 to respond quickly and efficiently, minimizing damage and helping you recover faster.

Don't let winter storms catch you off guard. Prepare your home today and rest easy knowing help is just a call away. Contact SERVPRO of Toledo West for reliable and professional assistance when you need it most.

Winter Storm Preparedness for Your Toledo West Home

12/5/2024 (Permalink)

Winter weather in Toledo West can be unpredictable and harsh, so preparing your home is essential to avoid costly damage from snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.

Winter storms can cause significant damage, from ice dams to burst pipes. Follow these tips to safeguard your home:

1. Inspect your roof and gutters to ensure proper drainage and prevent ice buildup.
2. Insulate exposed pipes and maintain consistent indoor temperatures to avoid freezing.
3. Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, and warm clothing.

At SERVPRO of Toledo West, our storm damage restoration experts are ready 24/7 to help you recover quickly. Contact us today for reliable and professional assistance.

Preparing Your Home for Winter Storms

11/26/2024 (Permalink)

Winter in Toledo West brings unpredictable weather, and it's essential to prepare your home for potential winter storms. From ensuring proper insulation to preventing frozen pipes, proactive measures can save you from costly damage.

Winter storms can cause significant damage to homes, from ice dams on roofs to burst pipes. To help homeowners in Toledo West, SERVPRO provides expert tips:

1. Inspect your roof for damage and clear gutters to prevent ice buildup.
2. Insulate pipes and keep your home’s temperature consistent to avoid freezing.
3. Have emergency supplies ready, including flashlights and extra batteries.

At SERVPRO of Toledo West, we specialize in storm damage restoration and are here to help you 24/7. Contact us today for expert assistance.

Storm Damage: Minimizing Losses and Restoring Peace of Mind

4/11/2024 (Permalink)

When severe weather strikes, the aftermath can be devastating for homeowners and businesses alike. Storm damage can range from roof leaks and structural damage to flooding and debris cleanup. At SERVPRO of Toledo West, we understand the urgency of storm damage restoration and the importance of restoring peace of mind to our customers.

Here's how we help mitigate storm damage and restore properties affected by severe weather:

1. Rapid Response: Our team is available 24/7 to respond to storm damage emergencies promptly. We understand that time is of the essence, and we work quickly to assess the damage and implement mitigation measures to prevent further loss.

2. Comprehensive Assessment: We conduct a thorough assessment of the property to determine the extent of the storm damage. This allows us to develop a customized restoration plan tailored to the specific needs of each property.

3. Water Extraction and Drying: If flooding occurs due to heavy rains or storm surges, we utilize powerful pumps and extraction equipment to remove standing water quickly. We then implement drying techniques to restore the property to a dry and safe condition.

4. Structural Repairs: Our team is trained and equipped to handle a wide range of structural repairs, including roof tarping, board-up services, and reconstruction. We work diligently to restore the property to its pre-storm condition, minimizing downtime for homeowners and businesses.

5. Debris Cleanup: Severe storms often leave behind debris such as fallen trees, branches, and other debris. Our team safely removes debris from the property and disposes of it properly, ensuring a safe and clean environment for our customers.

6. Insurance Coordination: We understand the complexities of navigating the insurance claims process, especially during times of crisis. Our experienced team works closely with insurance companies to ensure a smooth and efficient claims process, relieving stress for our customers.

At SERVPRO of Toledo West, we are dedicated to helping our customers recover from storm damage and restore their properties to preloss condition. Contact us today for fast and reliable storm damage restoration services.

Preparation is Key: How to Effectively Prepare for Storm Season

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Every year, thunderstorms alone cause about $15 billion in property damage. As we approach hurricane and storm season, make note of these tips to protect your property.

1. Make an emergency kit with the following items that you probably already own: flashlight, battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic, non-perishable foods, lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, and any important personal items or documents.
2. Know the safest place to go in your home if a storm gets severe. This may be a basement, underground cellar, or even the most inner part of your home away from windows.
3. Get regular roof and foundation maintenance. Cracks in a roof are the number one leading cause to flooding damage.
4. Cut down unwanted or dead trees or limbs. Get your trees trimmed before storm season begins. Tree debris can damage siding, windows, and roofs.
5. Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy. Most home insurers do not cover flooding.
6. Keep all expensive and favored possessions off the floor and away from low ground in case of flooding. Invest in a water/fire proof container to keep important documents in.
7. Keep all patio furniture, grills, etc. in doors before a summer storm hits. Do not forget to park your vehicles in the garage.
8. Finally, take those summer storm warnings and alerts seriously, especially tornado warnings. Tornadoes can lead to total property loss and even death.

Safety First: How to Avoid Injury and Damages During a Storm

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

If storm damage gets you down, let us help pick you back up!

As storm season approaches, it is important to recognize the risk of personal and property damage. Here are a few steps to take to keep yourself safe during a storm:

• Go indoors and stay there. This can be inside of your own home, in a neighbors, or a friends. If you are outdoors somewhere without houses, like a park or the lake, try and find a public restroom. These are often storm proof. If there is no other options, the best thing to do is wait in your car until the storm passes.
• Move to somewhere away from windows. Almost every home has a basement, which is the safest place to wait out storms. If your home doesn’t have a basement, bathrooms are a good choice, too.
• Try to stay away from appliances. Avoid activities such as showering or talking on a wired phone. Lightning is able to travel through plumbing or wiring, so avoid using washers and dryers as well. If there is a lightning strike, it could cause appliances to short and catch fire.
• After the storm has passed, remember to be careful walking around, watch out for things such as downed power lines and possibly damaged circuit breakers. If you smell gas, contact authorities immediately.  

Following these steps may not be ideal, but the safety of yourself, your family, and your home should not be compromised. If you find that a storm has caused damage, feel free to call SERVPRO of Toledo West today and let the experts take care of it! 

Easy After Storm Cleanup Tips

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

Let our pros handle your storm damage!

A storm has just subsided. Luckily, your family took the necessary precautions to avoid injury, but there is still a chance that your home suffered from storm or water damages. Whether it be flooding, backed up sewage, or damage from fallen debris, if there is any major damage to your home, call SERVPRO of Toledo West and let our pros handle your stress. Before we arrive, there are a few things you can do to start fixing up your home.  

• Clean up tree debris from your yard and around your home. This one is by far the easiest, and the branches and sticks can easily be thrown away, or used for something like firewood or compost. Your kids and pets may even be able to help you with this one, too. If a branch or tree has fallen against your house and caused damage, go ahead and call SERVPRO of Toledo West to have it quickly, and expertly repaired.  
• Dry out your house. Mold can grow quickly after water has entered a home, so it is important to clean up any standing water and dry-off surfaces as soon as possible.
• If you see any damage involving sewage, live wires, or possible gas leaks, don’t try and fix it yourself! Immediately call the experts at SERVPRO of Toledo West to solve this issue for you.  

The most important thing you can do is be safe. If you feel unqualified, or you rather let the experts handle it, don’t hesitate to call in our pros.

Reacting to Unlikely Disasters: When Lightning Strikes

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

Nobody expects their home to be struck by lightning. The likelihood is almost zero, so why worry if it’s improbable? Surprisingly, between 2017 and 2020, the Insurance Information Institute reported just over 311,000 claims for lightning, with an average cost of $28,885 per claim! That’s a lot of claims, and a lot of money! So, what can you do if lightning does strike your home?

• First, check to make sure everyone in your family is okay before moving forward. It’s a bad idea to do things like wash dishes or shower during a lightning storm. If lightning does strike, make sure that no one is hurt, or call for help if someone is.
• Next, assess damages and check for fire. As you do this, make sure to check everywhere from the attic to the basement looking for things like smoke, charred electrical outlets, shorted appliances, damaged roof shingles, or fried wiring.
• If you find any sort of storm damage and need storm damage repair in Toledo, then it’s best to contact the experts at SERVPRO of Toledo West to mitigate your lightning or storm damage. We’ll take care of everything, so you don’t have to worry.

Call us today for your storm damage needs! 419-757-8643

SERVPRO of Toledo West's Storm Team is Ready for Disaster Anywhere

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

We have the equipment and expertise to handle any size disaster!

Have you experienced storm damage, whether it be from flooding or water damage? If so, call the experts on SERVPRO of Toledo West’s Storm Team to handle your disaster.

Although we are based in Ohio, we are prepared in advance for expected damages when a storm rolls through anywhere in the Unites States! We respond quickly because we know that immediate action lessens damages and reduces restoration costs.

Our professionally trained Storm Team have the equipment, resources, and knowledge needed to handle any size job, residential or commercial. With several certifications and over 50 years of experience, you can worry less knowing that SERVPRO of Toledo West has your back, even outside of Toledo.

We are Here to Help® and are ready to respond when Mother Nature strikes. 

Safety First: How to Stay Safe in a Storm

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

We have experienced quite the rainy and stormy summer so far, and with these storms comes a risk of personal and property damage. Keeping yourself and your loved ones safe during a storm is the top priority, so here are a few tips to help you for the rest of the summer:  

• Remain indoors. This can be inside your home or the home of a neighbor if need be. If you are outdoors, seek shelter at a local business, or a public restroom. Public restrooms in parks are typically built to be storm proof. Should there be no other options, sheltering in your car should keep you safe and dry as you wait out the storm.  
• Stay away from windows. The safest place to be during a storm is a basement. If your house doesn’t have a basement, bathrooms are a good choice as well. 
• Try to stay away from appliances. Avoid showering or talking on a wired phone during a storm. Lightening can travel through plumbing fixtures or home wiring, so avoid using your washer and dryer during a storm. Lightening strikes can cause those appliances to short and catch fire.  
• Once the storm has passed, be cautious when walking around, especially outside. Be alert for down powerlines and tree branches. If you smell gas, be sure to contact authorities immediately.

Storms can be scary to witness, but following these steps can help to put your mind at ease during the next one. If you find that a storm has caused damage, feel free to call SERVPRO of Toledo West today and let the experts take care of it! 

Contact us today! 419-750-6182

After a Storm: Cleanup and Prevention

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

When the damage after a storm is too big of a task, call the experts at SERVPRO to handle your mess!

Your family has taken the necessary precautions during a storm, but what do you do to deal with the aftermath? There is a chance that something happened to your home, whether it be flooding, backed up sewage, or damage from falling debris. If there’s any major damage to your home, it’s best to call the experts at SERVPRO of Toledo West and let the professionals clean up. But, there are still some things you can do yourself if you feel up to it.  

• Clean up tree debris from your property. Picking up sticks and leaves is by far the easiest step, and is something even your kids and pets can get involved in. These materials can be discarded, or saved for firewood or composting. If a branch or tree has fallen against your house and caused damage, make sure you call SERVPRO of Toledo West to have it quickly, and expertly repaired.  
• Dry out your house as soon as possible. Water that has entered your home, typically in a basement or attic, can lead to mold if left untreated. Mold can lead to severe property and health detriments, so it is important to get these areas dried as quickly as possible. If some time has passed and you suspect mold may already be growing, a bleach-based household cleaning solution can kill the mold and prevent further damage.  
• If you see any damage involving sewage, live wires, or possible gas leaks, do not attempt to fix these things yourself. Leave these types of cleanups to the professionals at SERVPRO

If you feel unqualified or just need a helping hand, be sure to call in professionals to handle your after storm clean up.

Contact us today! 419-750-6182

Staying Safe in Storms

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you need water or storm damage restoration after a storm, call the experts at SERVPRO today!

Over the past few weeks, there have been several storms in the Toledo area, and with storms comes a risk of personal and property damage. In order to keep yourself safe during storms, there are a few steps to take.  

• Go indoors and stay there. This can be inside your home or the home of a neighbor. If you’re outdoors somewhere without many houses around, such as a park or the lake, try and seek shelter in a nearby building. Parks should have public restrooms, and these are often built to be storm proof. Should there be no other options, the best thing to do is to shelter in your car and wait out the storm.  
• Once you’re indoors, move to somewhere away from windows. Many homes have a basement, which is the safest place to wait out storms. If your house doesn’t have a basement, bathrooms are often a good choice as well. 
• Try to stay away from appliances and avoid activities such as showering or talking on a wired phone. Lightening can travel through plumbing fixtures or home wiring, so it’s best to avoid using things like washers and dryers during a storm. Additionally, if there is a lightning strike, it could cause those appliances to short and catch fire.  
• After the storm has passed, remember to be careful walking around, watch out for things such as downed power lines and possibly damaged circuit breakers. If you smell gas, contact authorities immediately.  

It might be an inconvenience to follow these steps, but the most important thing is to keep you and your family safe. If you find that a storm has caused damage, feel free to call SERVPRO of Toledo West today and let the experts take care of it! 

Protect Your Home During A Storm.

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you need storm damage restoration in Toledo, call SERVPRO today!

Each year, thunderstorms alone cause approximately $15 billion in property damage. Summer and spring seasons are the most vulnerable to these destructive and frightening storms.

There are several ways to prepare your property for the summer.

1. Always have an emergency kit with these items that you probably already have in your house: flashlight, battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic, non-perishable foods, lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, and any important personal items and documents.
2. Know the safest structure of your home to go to during a severe storm such as a basement, underground cellar, or even the most inner part of your home away from windows.
3. Get routine maintenance on your roof and the foundation. Cracks in the roof are the number one leading cause to flooding damage.
4. Cut down any unwanted trees or limbs and get your trees trimmed before summer storm season. Trees and branches can fall on your property and damage the siding, windows, and roof.
5. Contact your insurance company to be more familiar with your policy. Most home insurers do not cover flooding damage.
6. Keep all expensive and favored possessions off the floor and away from low ground in case of flooding.
7. Keep all patio furniture, grills, etc. in doors before a summer storm hits. Do not forget to part your vehicles in the garage.
8. Finally, take those summer storm warnings and alerts seriously, especially tornado warnings. Tornadoes can lead to total property loss and even death.

What If Lightning Strikes Your Western Toledo Home?

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have lightning damage or storm damage in Toledo? Call SERVPRO today and we'll make it "Like it never even happened."

It’s one of those things that seems like it could never possibly happen to you. The chances of your house being struck by lightning seems to be basically zero, so why even worry about it? Well, would it surprise you to learn that between 2017 and 2020, the Insurance Information Institute reported just over 311,000 claims for lightning, with an average cost of $28,885 per claim? That’s a lot of claims, and a lot of money! So, what do you need to do if lightning strikes your Toledo home?

• The first thing to do is check on everyone in your house and make sure no one was hurt. It’s a bad idea to do things like wash dishes or shower during a lightning storm, but if lightning strikes, take a few minutes and make sure everyone is alright.
• The next thing you need to do is check for damage or a fire. As you do this, make sure to check everywhere from the attic to the basement looking for things like smoke, charred electrical outlets, sorted appliances, damaged roof shingles, or fried wiring.
• If you find anything storm damage and need storm damage repair in Toledo, then it’s best to contact the experts at SERVPRO of Toledo West to mitigate your lightning or storm damage. We’ll take care of everything, so you don’t have to worry, so call us today if you’ve experienced any storm or lightning damage!

SERVPRO of Toledo West Is Prepared For Storms

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

If you need storm damage repair near Toledo, be sure to call SERVPRO!

If you have experienced any type of storm damage, whether it be from flooding or water damage, the experienced Storm Team at SERVPRO of Toledo West will be there for you. Although we are an Ohio based franchise, we prepare in advance for expected damage from any storm weather anywhere in the United States! We respond quickly, too, because we know that immediate action and a fast response lessens damage, limits further damage and reduces restoration costs. Our professionally trained crews have the specialized equipment and resources needed to handle the job, large or small, residential and commercial. Our teams strategically prepare ahead of the storm and place equipment at the best locations in case of flood or storm emergency. With several certifications and over 50 years of experience, you can rest assured that we are the perfectly equipped to deal with any storm job no matter the size. Choose SERVPRO of Toledo West, a company that specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. We are Here to Help® and are ready to respond when Mother Nature strikes. 

Cleaning Up After a Storm

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

If you need storm damage restoration in Toledo, call SERVPRO today!

A storm has just blown through, but thankfully you and your family took precautions and no one was harmed. However, there is still a chance something happened in your home, whether it be flooding, backed up sewage, or damage from falling debris. If there’s any major damage to your Toledo home, call SERVPRO of Toledo West and let the professionals clean up, but there are still some things you can do yourself if you feel up to it.  

• Clean up sticks and branches that may have fallen during the storm. This one is by far the easiest, and the branches can easily be thrown away, or used for something like firewood or compost. If a branch or tree has fallen against your house and caused damage, go ahead and call SERVPRO of Toledo West to have it quickly, and expertly repaired.  
• Dry out your house as soon as possible. After a storm, if water has gotten inside your home, it will very quickly cause mold to grow, which will create many issues down the road. It’s best to clean up any standing water and dry off surfaces that may grow mold. If some time has passed and you suspect mold may already be growing, using a bleach-based household cleaning solution can kill the mold and prevent further damage.  
• If you see any damage involving sewage, live wires, or possible gas leaks, don’t try and fix it yourself! Immediately call the experts at SERVPRO of Toledo West to solve this issue for you.  

The most important thing you can do is be safe, and call someone for help if you feel unqualified for an after storm clean up.  

The Worst Storms can be Cleaned by SERVPRO

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

If you need storm damage repair near Toledo West, be sure to call SERVPRO!

If you have experienced any type of storm damage, whether it be from flooding or water damage, the experienced Storm Team at SERVPRO of Toledo West will be there for you.  Although we are an Ohio based franchise, we prepare in advance for expected damage from any storm weather anywhere in the United States!  We respond quickly, too, because we know that immediate action and a fast response lessens damage, limits further damage and reduces restoration costs. Our professionally trained crews have the specialized equipment and resources needed to handle the job, large or small, residential and commercial. Our teams strategically prepare ahead of the storm and place equipment at the best locations in case of flood or storm emergency. With several certifications and over 50 years of experience, you can rest assured that we are the perfectly equipped to deal with any storm job no matter the size. Choose SERVPRO of Toledo West, a company that specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. We are Here to Help® and are ready to respond when Mother Nature strikes. 

When Storms or Floods hit Lucas County SERVPRO is ready!

8/16/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ofSylvania/West Toledo specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Lucas County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (419) 473-0561

Toledo Residents:Snow Emergency Classifications

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

With winter upon us I thought it would be a good time to put out our reminder about staying safe on the road this winter.

Pursuant of Ohio Attorney General Opinion 86-023, the sheriff of a county may declare a snow emergency and temporarily close county and township roads within his jurisdiction for the preservation of the public peace. Attorney General Opinion 97-015 allows the sheriff to close state and municipal roads.

Snow Emergency Classifications

LEVEL 1: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be icy. Motorists are urged to drive very cautiously.

LEVEL 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be very icy. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roads. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work. Motorists should use extreme caution.

LEVEL 3: All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. No one should be driving during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel or a personal emergency exists. All employees should contact their employer to see if they should report to work. Those traveling on the roads may subject themselves to arrest.

The Wonderful World Of Weather Lore

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

Let's face it if you follow the weather in any way at all we know that it is not an exact science. Yes there are satellites to observe cloud patterns around the world, and radars are used to measure precipitation. All of this data is then plugged into super computers, which is how they come up with an educated guess.They do not control the weather. So how do we know if we are in for a mild winter or a winter filled with snow storm and cold temperatures? My Papaw always said to look to Nature, It would tell you all you need to know. Living on a farm in the Midwest he would often say a severe winter had many tell tell signs. A simple sign like an over abundance of acorns was natures way of preparing Gods creatures for a rough winter. If there weren't many acorn then winter would be mild. He also said "onion skins very thin, mild winters coming in; onion skins thick and tough, coming winter is gonna be rough." I am not sure who is more accurate the weatherman or my Papaw, but the  acorns were abundant and my onions in the garden this year were tough. My Papaw would be happy that my snow boots and snow shovel are ready! 

What To Do When The Storm Subsides

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

2017 has had no shortage of severe weather hit around the globe. We have seen major Hurricanes such , Harvey, Irma, Jose, and Maria.  The Atlantic  alone has had 17 Named storms so far in 2017!

On top of the major named storms we have had sever thunderstorms, heavy rains and we are just barely into the winter season!

So what steps should you do after the storm is gone and you are left with damage to your home?

There are steps that you should be aware of, steps to make the process smother and less Complicated.

1. Take the proper safety precautions! If your property is heavily damaged contact a reputable restoration company such as SERVPRO of Sylvania/West Toledo to secure your property.

2. Contact your insurance company.

3.  Photograph damage, if it safe for you to do so. This is important to be sure you have an accurate record to give to your insurance company.

4. If the damage is from a storm such as a hurricane, look into Federal Disaster Assistance.The federal government may have declared the area affected by the storm as a disaster area that is eligible for low-cost loans to help restore your property to normal. You will be required to file documents to receive these loans.

Hurricane Irma 2017

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane Irma made landfall in Southwest Florida on September 10^th as a Major Hurricane. Widespread flooding and wind damage had been reported across most of the Florida Peninsula and southern Georgia.

SERVPRO mobilized our Disaster Recovery Teams to assist the 94 SERVPRO Franchises in Florida as more restoration personnel and equipment were needed. 

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately to hurricane damage with experienced cleanup crews. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

SERVPRO of Sylvania/West Toledo was more than happy to be called in by one of SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Teams To assist in the clean up efforts.

Our Franchise spent a little over six weeks in Florida, helping to restore some sense of normalcy to their residents and businesses.

It is great to be a part of the SERVPRO Family and be able to help make a difference in peoples lives.  

Prepare Your Home Before The Storm

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Living in Northwest Ohio we often experience severe winter weather. That means our homes should be winterized sometime during the fall season. There are many things that can be done to prepare your home for winter including insulating attics, basements, and walls to help heat your home more efficiently, and putting plastic over windows. Heating systems should also be cleaned and serviced each year before they are used to ensure they are safe and working properly. Any drafty areas should be caulked, or otherwise repaired and the roof should be checked to ensure that there are no leaks and it will be able to bear the weight of the snow.

Before cold weather approaches, you should also spend some time cleaning gutters and trimming any tree branches that could fall on your home in the event of a bad storm. Pipes should also be insulated to prevent them from freezing which can result in burst pipes and flooding.

SERVPRO of Sylvania/West Toledo wants you to be prepared, but by chance you find yourself with a burst pipe, We are here to service all your mitigation and restoration needs. (419) 882-1144

Blizzard in Toledo Ohio: 40 years Later

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

This January 26th - January 27th 2018 will make the 40th anniversary of the blizzard of 1978. This Storm has been referred to by some as "White Hurricane". The blizzard was the worst in Ohio history; 51 people died as a result of the storm. Over 5,000 members of the Ohio National Guard were called in to make numerous rescues. Police asked citizens who had four-wheel-drive vehicles or snowmobiles to transport doctors to the hospital. From January 26 to 27, the entire Ohio Turnpike was shut down for the first time ever.The total effect on transportation in Ohio was described by Major General James C. Clem of the Ohio National Guard as comparable to a "Nuclear Attack". Forty years later the "Great Blizzard Of 1978" is remembered by many as the time when the city of Toledo came together and took care of our neighbors. We checked on the elderly, made sure they had food and heat.  Through all of the devastation, this city came together! These are the memories some of us have from the "Great Blizzard of "78" . 

Storm Damage in Toledo Ohio

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

The last couple of months have not been exactly the warmest in northwest Ohio, but now that May is here things are finally thawed. Even though snow is thankfully, no longer in the forecast that does not mean we have all sunshine and blue skies ahead of us! This is the time of year we gear up for spring storms!

 Remove winter’s debris from your gutters, drains and downspouts so that heavy rains can flow freely off your roof. Be sure that downspouts are secure and that water is draining well away from your home and not toward your foundation—add extensions if necessary.

Trim the trees. Prune lanky limbs and branches so they don’t snap off in a windstorm and land on your home or a power line.

Check the pump. If your home has a sump pump, test it to make sure it’s clean and operable and that the outflow is draining properly. Consider adding a battery-powered backup sump pump to keep the system working if the power goes out. Stow your gear. When strong winds are forecast, secure patio furniture and other yard items or put them in your garage or a shed so they don’t become dangerous projectiles. Cover up. Close and secure storm shutters if your home has them. Keep blinds and shades drawn, tape or tack window coverings around the edges to help protect you from broken, flying glass. Tie thick blankets over vehicles that are exposed to the elements to diminish damage from hail. If power outages are common in your area, prepare an emergency kit and keep it in a central location in your home.

 Basic supplies should include

• Flashlight and fresh batteries Battery- or solar-powered weather radio and/or transistor radio

• First aid supplies Hand sanitizer or wipes

• Three-day supply of canned or dried food and water

Make sure your insurance policy is up to date and that you adequately covered in the event you have damage from the effects of a storm. Do not assume.

If your home suffers damage during storm season and you find yourself in need of a professional, SERVPRO of Sylvania/West Toledo is here to help 24/7. With our highly trained, IICRC certified Technicians you can trust you and your home are in good hands. Call us today @ 419-882-1144

How Spring Floods can Affect you in the Toledo Ohio Area

3/30/2016 (Permalink)

Spring Floods

Spring is here and with that comes the rain. Sometimes more rain than what our storm sewers can handle.  Rivers and streams rise above their natural boundaries causing the water to overflow. Flooding occurs and as the water travels across the ground it picks up all kinds of contaminates such as soil bacteria, decaying insects, animal droppings, fertilizers from fields, oil and roadway debris, and the list goes on. It is for this reason that even after the flood waters recede, what is left behind poses a host of health issues. Therefore it is very important that when cleaning up after flood it is imperative that certain precautions should be taken.

First on the list is to assess the situation before entering a building. Water and electrical don’t tend to mix very well. It is best to make sure the power is shut off.   

Call in a professional who has been IICRC certified such as SERVPRO®. SERVPRO® is a professional water damage restoration company that has highly trained, certified technicians, specialized cleaners and antimicrobial agents to makes sure your home or building is properly disinfected. We have the extraction equipment to remove the water and the drying/dehumidification equipment to make sure the building is drying out in a timely manner. Certified restorers have the knowledge to test the materials and apply the restoration techniques required to return the structure and salvageable items back to their pre-loss condition.