Recent Posts

Tips for Keeping Pets Safe During a Tornado in Lake Catherine?

7/23/2024 (Permalink)

A tornado and lighting are visible during a severe thunderstorm. Lake County relies on us for storm damage restoration services.

Our Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help ® when you have storm damage. While tornadoes can occur at any time, the summer months are particularly conducive to the severe thunderstorms that can spawn tornadoes in Lake Catherine. And when severe weather strikes, it's crucial to ensure the safety of all family members, including pets. Here are some essential tips for keeping pets safe during a tornado:

Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit specifically for your pets. Include items such as food, water, medications, a leash, a collar with ID tags, and a photo of your pet. Keep this kit in your designated safe room or shelter.

Create a Safe Space: Identify the safest area in your home, such as a basement or an interior room without windows, where you and your pets can take shelter during a tornado. Make sure the space is comfortable and familiar to your pets by keeping blankets, toys, and their favorite bedding there.

Keep Pets Indoors: At the first sign of severe weather, bring your pets inside. Never leave them outside during a tornado warning. Ensure that all pets are accounted for and secure in the designated safe space.

Stay Calm and Together: Pets can sense anxiety and fear. Stay calm and reassure your pets with a soothing voice and gentle petting.

Call Us Today!

Lake Catherine residents and businesses rely on our local Northwest Lake County team to restore storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Antioch Home Flooded by Malfunctioning Kitchen Appliance?

7/16/2024 (Permalink)

Water leaks onto a kitchen floor. We restore water damage in Lake County “Like it never even happened.”

When your home or commercial business in Antioch has a water damage emergency, our Northwest Lake County team is on call and ready to respond. Kitchen appliances are essential for daily convenience, but they can also be sources of water damage if not properly maintained. Here are some common culprits:

Dishwashers: A dishwasher can cause significant water damage if its door seal, hoses, or connections fail. Leaks can occur due to worn-out seals, clogged filters, or damaged hoses, leading to water pooling on your kitchen floor and seeping into cabinetry and subflooring.

Refrigerators with Ice Makers and Water Dispensers: Refrigerators equipped with ice makers and water dispensers have water supply lines that can crack or become loose. These lines are often hidden behind the appliance, making leaks harder to detect until substantial damage has occurred.

Sinks and Garbage Disposals: Leaky faucets, under-sink plumbing issues, and faulty garbage disposals can all cause water damage. Slow leaks under the sink can go unnoticed for a long time, leading to mold growth and wood rot in cabinetry.

Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of wear or leaks can help prevent these kitchen appliances from causing water damage. To safeguard your home, check hoses, seals, and connections periodically and replace them as needed.

Call Us Today!

Antioch residents and businesses can count on our local Northwest Lake County team to restore water damage 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Why Do Lake Villa Businesses Rely On Us to Restore Water Damage?

7/9/2024 (Permalink)

A happy business person gives the thumbs-up sign. We are leaders in commercial water damage restoration services in Lake County.

When your Lake Villa business experiences water damage, fast mitigation is necessary to minimize the chances for secondary damage and more costly and time-consuming repairs. Our Northwest Lake County team has the training, equipment, and experience to restore water damage to preloss conditions quickly and efficiently.

Top Causes of Commercial Water Damage

Water damage can occur for several reasons. Leaking or burst pipes cause water damage, often resulting from aging infrastructure, extreme temperature fluctuations, or lack of maintenance. Plumbing system failures also contribute significantly, where malfunctions or defects in the plumbing system lead to extensive water damage. Roof leaks are another common cause, typically arising from poor maintenance, severe weather damage, or roofing materials' natural aging. HVAC system issues can also lead to water damage, especially if the system is not properly maintained or experiences a malfunction.

Powerful storms bringing heavy rainfall can cause severe flooding and water damage. These events can burden drainage systems and lead to widespread water intrusion. Addressing these issues proactively through regular maintenance and timely repairs is crucial to preventing water damage in commercial properties.

Call Us Today!

Water damage can happen at any time, and when you have a water damage emergency in Lake Villa, you can rely on our local Northwest Lake County team to restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Round Lake Beach Home Contaminated by Stormwater Runoff?

7/1/2024 (Permalink)

Contaminated stormwater runoff is shown. We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team restores storm damage in Round Lake Beach every year. After a storm, stormwater intrusion is a common cause of property damage. Water can be mixed with sewage, chemicals, and other harmful substances, creating a hazardous environment that can't be safely managed without professional expertise. The restoration process in these cases goes beyond simple drying and cleaning—it involves ensuring the property is free from harmful residues and is structurally sound.

Our professionals are trained to handle and dispose of biohazardous materials safely. They use industrial-grade equipment to extract the water and thoroughly dry the affected areas. Our restoration methods ensure that the water-damaged areas of the property are returned to normal humidity levels and that water-borne contaminants that might pose health risks are eliminated.

We also help property owners navigate the insurance paperwork and process, providing detailed reports and assessments that document the extent of the damage and the necessary repairs. Opting for professional restoration services ensures that the property is restored to a safe state quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime and reducing the risk of future complications.

Call Us Today!

Handling stormwater damage on your own is not only risky but could also lead to more significant problems down the line, so if your Round Lake Beach home or commercial business has damage from stormwater contamination, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flying Firework Ember Starts Fire on Roof of Grayslake Home?

6/25/2024 (Permalink)

A public firework display lights up the night sky. Lake County trusts us to restore fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Our Northwest Lake County team wants everyone in Grayslake to have a safe, fire and injury-free 4th of July celebration. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for getting into the patriotic spirit without fireworks:

  • Use glow sticks, they glow in the dark and are a safe alternative to a sparkler. Fun for all ages.
  • Loud and proud. Noise makers are sure to make a statement. They can be found at local party supply stores or make your own.
  • Outdoor movie night. Set up a screen and projector. Don’t forget the bug spray!
  • Red, white and blue silly string…fun for all ages.
  • Make a patriotic craft with the family.
  • Throw a birthday party for the USA, and don’t forget the cake.

Consumer Product Safety Commission 2018 Fireworks Annual Report Facts

  • More than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually.
  • Half of the fireworks injuries seen in emergency rooms were extremities: hand, finger, or leg. One-third were to the eye or other parts of the head.
  • Sparklers account for roughly one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries.
  • Children ages 10 to 14 has the highest rate of fireworks injury, with more than one-third (36 percent) of the victims of fireworks injuries under age 15.

Call Us Today!

When your Grayslake home or commercial business has a fire damage emergency, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help®. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Clogged Rain Gutters Cause Water Damage in Lake Villa?

6/18/2024 (Permalink)

A clogged rain gutter holds water and debris. We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team witnesses firsthand the damage clogged rain gutters can cause to a home or business. When debris, such as leaves, twigs, and sediment, accumulates in gutters, it obstructs the flow of rainwater, leading to damaging consequences, as follows:

Water overflow can occur, causing it to spill over the sides of the gutters and cascade down the exterior walls of the building. This can result in water infiltration into the walls, leading to moisture damage, rot, and deterioration of the building's exterior surfaces.

Additionally, stagnant water in clogged gutters provides a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests, posing health risks to occupants and creating nuisance conditions around the property. Also, the weight of the accumulated debris and water can strain the gutter system, leading to sagging, detachment, or damage to gutter components and roof edges.

Neglecting to maintain clean gutters can result in many costly and potentially hazardous issues, including water intrusion, structural damage, pest infestations, and compromised building integrity. Regular gutter cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent these problems from occurring.

Call Us Today!

When your Lake Villa home or commercial business has property water damage from rainwater intrusion, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help®. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Protecting Your Home: Preventive Measures for Minimizing Property Damage During Power Outages in Venetian Village?

6/11/2024 (Permalink)

A backup generator is shown. We restore property damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team is a leader in property damage restoration services in Venetian Village. By taking proactive measures, homeowners can mitigate potential damage from power outages and keep their properties safe. Installing surge protectors is crucial to safeguard electronics from power surges when electricity is restored. These devices divert excess voltage away from devices, preventing damage and ensuring their longevity.

Backup generators are another invaluable investment. They provide emergency power during outages to keep essential appliances running and maintain comfort and safety in the home. With a backup generator, homeowners can avoid heating, cooling, and refrigeration system disruptions, minimizing the risk of property damage and discomfort during extended outages.

Securing outdoor items is equally important, especially in high winds or storms. Loose objects like patio furniture, grills, and garden decorations can become dangerous projectiles, causing damage to property and posing safety hazards. By securing or storing these items before severe weather strikes, homeowners can prevent them from becoming hazards and reduce the risk of property damage.

By taking these preventive measures, homeowners can effectively minimize property damage during power outages and ensure the safety and security of their homes and belongings. Investing in surge protectors, backup generators, and outdoor item security can provide peace of mind and protect against the unforeseen challenges of power disruptions.

Call Us Today!

When your Venetian Village home or commercial business has property damage from a power outage, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help®. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Stormwater Runoff Damage Averted by Fast Emergency Response Team in Round Lake Beach?

6/4/2024 (Permalink)

Muddy stormwater runoff flows downhill. We mitigate storm damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team knows that fast mitigation is key to minimizing costly and time-consuming repairs. One area of Northwest Lake County that is prone to flooding is Round Lake Beach. Located near Round Lake and the Chain O'Lakes, Round Lake Beach faces flood risks from lakefront flooding and inland rainfall events. The numerous lakes, ponds, and wetlands can exacerbate flooding, especially in low-lying neighborhoods.

Our team has the training, specialized equipment, and experience to mitigate and restore flood damage quickly and efficiently. Here are some examples of the industrial-grade water extraction and drying equipment we use:

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment is used to speed the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

  • Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
  • Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

Industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers are used to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

  • High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
  • Industrial-grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us Today!

When your Round Lake Beach home or commercial business has a flooding emergency, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help®. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Water Leak Causes Significant Damage to Fox Lake Home?

5/28/2024 (Permalink)

A copper pipe has sprung a leak. We are leaders in water damage restoration services in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team witnesses firsthand the damage water can do to a property in Fox Lake in as little as one day. Water can spread rapidly throughout the affected area, infiltrating building materials, furniture, and personal belongings. Here's how the damage can escalate:

Structural Damage: Water can seep into walls, ceilings, and floors, weakening structural components such as wooden beams, drywall, and insulation. In hours, this can lead to warping, buckling, and even collapse of building materials, compromising the home's integrity.

Mold and Mildew Growth: Moisture creates an ideal mold and mildew growth environment. Within 24 hours, mold spores can begin to colonize and spread to other areas of the home or building.

Electrical Hazards: Water intrusion into electrical systems poses a significant safety risk. Water can corrode wiring, outlets, and electrical appliances within a day, increasing the likelihood of electrical fires and shocks.

Damage to Belongings: Water can ruin furniture, carpets, clothing, and personal belongings. Within hours, items can become waterlogged, stained, and irreparably damaged.

Costly Repairs: The longer water damage goes untreated, the more extensive and expensive the repairs become. Within 24 hours, the financial burden of restoration and remediation can skyrocket, potentially exceeding thousands of dollars.

Call Us Today!

When your Fox Lake home or commercial property has a water damage emergency, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Unusual Weather Phenomenon: Tornado Touches Down Near Lake Catherine?

5/21/2024 (Permalink)

A sign that reads “Tornado Warning Ahead” is seen with dark, menacing thunderclouds in the background. We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in storm damage restoration services in Lake Catherine. Severe thunderstorms are powerful weather phenomena characterized by intense convective activity, capable of producing a variety of hazardous conditions such as strong winds, large hail, heavy rainfall, and occasionally tornadoes. While most thunderstorms do not spawn tornadoes, certain conditions can increase the likelihood of their occurrence within severe thunderstorm events.

Rare tornadoes within severe thunderstorms typically occur when specific atmospheric conditions align. These conditions often include a combination of strong wind shear, instability, moisture, and a triggering mechanism such as a frontal boundary or outflow boundary. When these factors converge, they can lead to the formation of rotating updrafts within thunderstorms, known as mesocyclones, which can subsequently produce tornadoes.

Although tornadoes are relatively rare compared to other severe weather hazards associated with thunderstorms, they can pose significant risks to life and property. They can produce extreme wind speeds and cause widespread destruction along their paths. Therefore, communities must have access to reliable weather forecasts and warnings and emergency preparedness plans in place to mitigate the potential impacts of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Call Us Today!

When your Lake Catherine home or commercial property sustains storm damage, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.