Recent Storm Damage Posts

Water and Basements do not always mix

4/23/2024 (Permalink)

Basement with water damage Basement walls with water damage

Nevada Flooding and Basement Water Damage | SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City

Nevada is no stranger to flash flooding. Because the terrain is mountainous and the ground is dry for most of the year, a flash flooding situation can happen very quickly.

While many homes in the Las Vegas area don’t have basements because of the rocky caliche that makes up a hard sediment layer under most of the city that is difficult to dig through, some homes do. This can present a challenge as this water from floods can make its way into the underground part of a home.

Below, we’ll look at some of the ways that you can identify water damage in your basement, or other parts of your home.

3 Signs There Could Be Water Damage Present

Musky, unpleasant odors. Water that gets into a basement could be clean, like rain water, but over time, if it becomes stagnant, the scent that it can leave behind after it evaporates is quite pungent. There is a common misconception that all basements have a musty smell, but this shouldn’t be the case for all basements. The smell often associated with basements is only possible when mold and mildew are present .

Flaky paint. Walls and masonry are often the first place people notice water damage. Many homeowners and landlords, in an effort to proactively head this off, will apply waterproof paint to interior walls. However, if water gets behind the paint, it will begin to work away at this paint over time and can lead to peeling, cracking or bubbling on the surface, despite its intended design to mask the issue.

Foundation cracks. Certainly, homes shift over time, but cracks in the foundation can indicate a larger problem, particularly water damage. These cracks can show up anywhere from the floor to the ceiling or the walls and can be a sign that there is water putting undue stress on the home that is liable to cause cracking. While hairline cracks are not an immediate cause for concern, if they grow, they should be treated immediately.

If any of these signs appear in your home, let us take a look and determine the cause of the issues and how we can help you treat it properly. Contact us today to see how we can help.

Plan Ahead for Severe Storms | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City right away

At the end of the day, no one wants to interact with severe storms. These storms can bring about severe lightning, rain and wind that can damage your home or even worse, you. Unfortunately, it’s likely you will encounter severe storm damage in your time as a homeowner since there are around 100,000 thunderstorms throughout the United States every year.

In December 2021, Henderson saw severe winds that impacted structures around Las Vegas. Storm wind even knocked over a traffic light pole on Green Valley Parkway between Sunset Road and Cedarhurst Circle.

Everyone knows there is nothing we can do to influence the weather, but we do have the ability to prepare for it in a number of ways, which we will address.

Your Severe Weather Communication Strategy

If you are dealing with severe weather, you want to make sure you have a reliable way to reach your family. You should be able to receive messages from authorities and look out for weather watches and warnings. This will help you know what to do next.

You should also keep both a cell phone and an NOAA weather radio on hand to make sure you’re caught up on the latest updates.

Lastly, you should have a communication strategy for your household, which establishes a safe spot in your home and a communication plan in case some household members are away from home when a storm strikes. Everyone should know how to check in and mark themselves as safe.

Your Severe Weather Emergency Kit

Make sure you have an emergency kit stashed away in your storm shelter area. It should have all the essentials you need for at least 72 hours of sheltering in place.

The kit should include nonperishable food, water, flashlights and batteries, first-aid supplies, and anything else you might need in the event of a prolonged storm.

Your Severe Weather Aftermath Checklist

Even when the storm is over, your work isn’t done yet. You need to look at your safety plan and evaluate its effectiveness. As you’re working through the plan with your household members, gather feedback on your communications, emergency kit and any other elements so that you’re even more prepared for the next storm.

After the storm, when it’s safe to do so, go around and check your home for any damage, paying close attention to your roof and seals around windows and doors where water damage is likely.

In the event there is any damage, you know who to call! SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City has restoration experts available 247 that will respond quickly so that you can get back in your home in no time.

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO to handle the restoration. We’re here 247 to spring into action—get in touch with us today.

Springtime Showers and Storm Flooding

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Be prepared in a storm situation. We can help! Call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City today: 702-564-8508

Spring is on its way and that means showers. With those showers comes the potential for storm runoff flooding. Are you prepared? Here are a few tips to put your mind at ease as you enjoy the lovely spring weather

  • Never walk or drive down flooded streets. There are many roads that flood, due to outdated storm drain systems in our city.    Remember, it only takes 6 inches of water to be swept off your feet.
  • Check your insurance policy on a yearly basis, to see what type of flood insurance you have. The more you know, the better.
  • Lastly, it is always a good idea to have an emergency plan in place. Set one up with friends or family. It is also a good idea to make sure you have plenty of supplies for each member of your household to last at least 3-5 days in case of such emergency.

You can also download our app to help with emergency preparedness for your home or business! Call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City for questions about Flood Safety.

Call us today: 702-564-8508

Spring Brings Various Weather Events Across the U.S. | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to the possibility of severe weather. SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is a call away 702-564-8508

As one of the world’s largest nations, the United States has an incredibly broad and diverse landscape. With such a large territory under one umbrella, seasonal weather in the U.S. is not uniform—different parts of the country experience varying weather patterns, and thus varying degrees of weather threats.

Let’s take a look at the unique weather events that can be anticipated as spring approaches and warm and cold air masses clash throughout the country— and more particularly, what we need to consider here in Nevada.

The Pacific Northwest’s spring months are prone to severe rain, which may result in floods and water damage. Higher altitude areas will continue to have snow, and the melting and runoff from that will create issues of its own.

Winter’s chill lasts the longest in the Upper Midwest and Northeast, and frigid weather will persist there throughout the season. Residents from Maine to the Dakotas can anticipate bitterly cold temperatures and the potential of blizzards and heavy snow until late spring or even early summer.

On the other hand, here in the Southwest and throughout southern West Coast, we will have to look out for excessive heat waves that can endanger lives and safety. Wildfires and heat waves can cause serious problems. Following the national drought of 2012, western wildfires burned almost 10 million acres across eight states, including Nevada, causing more than $1 billion in damages.

The South Pacific, including Hawaii, will be on alert for possible tsunamis caused by tectonic activity.

The central United States, from Iowa to Texas, will need to be on watch for windstorms, derechos and the threat of wildfires as well, which may readily spread when winds are strong and conditions are dry. And, of course, a large portion of this area is Tornado Alley, an area with a high frequency of tornadoes.

Finally, the Southeast may be subjected to a variety of extreme weather events, ranging from thunderstorms and tornadoes in landlocked states spanning across to the coast where hazardous currents and early-season hurricanes can be expected later in the spring.

Wherever you reside in the United States, the possibility of severe weather exists. Yours may differ from that of a peer a few states away, but it never hurts to know the times and be prepared.

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.

We Are Here for You when STORM strikes | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City -

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Of Henderson/Boulder City knows all about Storm Damage and how to help. Call Today 702-564-8508

Severe storms occur with relative frequency, but it is important to remember how much damage they are still capable of causing. 2021's extreme weather cost 688 lives and $145 billion in the U.S., making 2021 storm damages the 3rd costliest on record in history.

The best thing you can do to mitigate storm damage is to plan ahead. Knowing your recovery plan and what restoration company to use will help you take action immediately and prevent further damages from occurring—which is why we are here 247 to respond.

Benefits of Choosing Us for Storm Restoration

All Your Damages Will Be Handled
The damage that storms cause is generally not a straightforward issue—structural damage and water damage often go hand in hand and must be repaired in tandem for a full restoration. This is why we make sure our technicians can handle whatever storm damages occur and are fully trained and certified in both structural and water restoration.

You Will Receive a Highly Trained Crew
Because of how important restoration technicians are to the quality of work delivered, we invest heavily in our training and education programs to be sure everyone is up to speed. We adhere to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification industry guidelines, and we offer many seminars, classes and online learning tools so we can offer you the utmost expertise.

Any Size of Disaster Is Doable for Us
We are fortunate to be a locally owned, community-focused business, but we also have the backing of a nation of SERVPRO® locations that we can call upon for help. In the event of highly destructive storms, we can enlist other locations to help us with restoration, ensuring that everyone in the community gets the quick and quality service they deserve.

A Reputation You Can Count On
In our many years of restoration in the community, we have seen many unsavory business practices pop up after severe storms. That is why we are proud of our reputation for quality and dependable service and will do everything we can to work with you and complete your restoration without hassle.

If you have experienced storm damage or want to learn more, call us at 702-564-8508 for more details

Preparing for a Storm-What you should know!

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Tornado Storm

Be Prepared when Spring Storms Become Severe

Each year a startling 10,000 thunderstorms and 1,000 tornadoes impact the United States. Potentially deadly severe weather impacts everyone. Here's what you can do to prepare yourself and your family.

Before Severe Weather Strikes

  • Keep an eye on the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of light or increasing wind. Listen for the sound of thunder.
  • Go to a safe shelter immediately!
  • Listen to Local/National Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for the latest weather forecasts.
  • Unplug appliances. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances.
  • Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.
  • Turn off the air conditioner. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressor.
  • Draw blinds and shades over windows. If windows break due to objects blown by the wind, the shades will prevent glass from shattering into your home.

Protecting Yourself Outside

  • If you are in the woods, go to a safe building. Make sure it is fully enclosed with a roof and four walls. Tents, shelters, pavilions, or dugouts will not keep you safe.
  • If you are unable to find a shelter, find a low-lying, open place away from trees, telephone poles, or metal objects.
  • Get low to the ground, on the balls of your feet in a crouching position. The goal is to get as low as possible, while minimizing your contact with the ground. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them.

After the Storm Passes

  • Stay away from storm-damaged areas.
  • Listen to the radio for information and instructions.

If Someone is Struck by Lightning

  • People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge and can be handled safely.
  • Call or have someone dial 911.

For more information on severe weather, please call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City at:  702-564-8508

How to Prepare for Summer Storms | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is on the line, ready to make things right.

How to Prepare for Summer Storms | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Summer is the time of year we make plans most often. We plan trips and vacations, sporting events and long weekends.

Sometimes we even plan to have no plans and enjoy a day outside doing absolutely nothing. It’s the warmest time of the year, so we anticipate all the days will be filled with sun and we can soak up as many rays as we want.

But have you ever noticed how often summer plans get derailed by thunderstorms?

If you’ve ever thought that storms are more likely to cause cancellations in summer, it’s not just you. July and August are the rainiest months of the last three quarters of the year, and the warmth of the summer air combines with the atmospheric moisture to turn regular rains into potential thunderstorms.

Be Storm-Alert

We often don’t give storms the credit they’re due because they’re the most common weather danger—but the threat they present should never be ignored. Tune into local forecasts or use weather apps for timely forecasts and alerts. An NOAA Weather radio can also be helpful, because it focuses on weather and stays on even if power and cell service goes out.

If flooding is predicted, you should rethink your travel plans and stay home, or get home quickly if you’re out on the road. If forecasters warn about heavy winds, check around your yard and store items that may get blown away or carried off by running water.

Yes, getting ready for a storm is a chore, and not the kind of task anyone wants to do, but we mustn’t ignore it. Storm-related deaths reach into the dozens every year, and a little prevention could save many of those lives.

Be Storm-Safe

During a storm, your greatest protection from danger is indoors. Stay inside until you haven’t heard any thunder for at least a half hour—that’s your signal that the storm has moved on and you’re outside the range of a lightning strike, which can occur up to 10 miles away from the storm.

Wait until after the storm to bathe or shower, as metal and water are hyper-conductors of electricity. And avoid windows as much as possible, as there’s always a danger of them being shattered by lightning, or even debris.

Keep an emergency kit stocked with food, water, medication and other supplies you may need if you’re forced to evacuate or go several days without power.

Stay away from flood waters, whether you’re on foot or in a vehicle. Rushing water can easily carry away full-size SUVs, and even touching floodwater is dangerous because it may be contaminated.

There are any number of dangers that can come into play in a thunderstorm, and it’s always best to be cautious and put things on hold until storms safely pass. If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is on the line, ready to make things right again.

How Thunderstorms Can Cause Serious Damage | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can pop up at any moment. Contact SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City if you experience any damage

How Thunderstorms Can Cause Serious Damage | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Warmer weather is a clear sign that summer is on its way, but it can also mean that thunderstorms are becoming a serious threat once again. Every thunderstorm has the potential to cause serious damages—even if it is not a severe thunderstorm, heavy rains and lightning strikes can be quite dangerous.

While thunderstorms may feel like a routine occurrence, it is wise to always take them seriously.

Whenever there is a thunderstorm, lightning is always present as well even if you can’t see it. Additionally, many thunderstorms contain high winds and hail, and a severe thunderstorm is declared when winds reach 58 miles per hour or more and hail is an inch or more in diameter. For thunderstorms of any severity, it is important to be sure you are heeding them with caution.

Why Thunderstorms Are Such a Dangerous Event

Damage and injury from lightning strikes. Lightning strikes are always a possibility, even with fairly minor thunderstorm incidents. Most lightning strikes between clouds, but it will often strike toward the ground as well—and this is responsible for over 300 bodily injuries each year. Lightning can also be dangerous due to property damages, as it can catch homes on fire and fell trees or power poles.

Property damage due to hail. Though every thunderstorm does not contain hail, it is always possible that it can form. Thunder clouds are quite cold inside, which can freeze precipitation, and hail can fall at alarmingly fast speeds which make it dangerous. Not only can hail lead to dents in unprotected cars, but it can also damage the roof and siding of a home, which will lead to water damage over time.

Harm from flash flooding. When a flash flood watch or warning is issued, it is vital to take it seriously as they can be so dangerous. Flash floods come about suddenly and can happen nearly anywhere, as heavy rains that overwhelm storm drains are a common culprit. Just a few inches of water can carry away a vehicle or knock a person off of his or her feet, so it is important to stay as far away from flood water as possible.

Thunderstorms are dangerous and can cause significant damage to homes or commercial spaces. If you have damage due to a thunderstorm, you can count on us to help. Contact us 247 for more information about our storm restoration practices.

Simple Projects to Protect Your Home from Storms | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

If you experience any property damage from spring storms, contact SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City.

Simple Projects to Protect Your Home from Storms | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Families living in Henderson enjoy the benefits of a mild climate. (In fact, the average yearly snowfall here is 0 inches!) So, it’s easy to see why people who live here enjoy it.

But that doesn’t mean we can’t get excited about the new season—spring. It’s March already, and that’s one of the best times to start thinking about new projects you can do around the house.

That might include simple things, like changing your landscaping to add new plants or painting. Other projects, like a new deck or gazebo, are more ambitious.

While all these projects can make your home look better, it’s a good idea to also consider sprinkling in some projects that can help protect your home when stormy weather strikes.

We can’t stop a thunderstorm from hitting our neighborhood. But we can do things to make our homes safer. Here’s what home maintenance experts recommend.

Ideas for Your To-Do List

Here are some simple projects you can knock out over a long weekend:

Ensure your roof is in good shape. You don’t want to let your roof become a problem, so inspect it. Look for missing shingles and signs of leaks. Repair what you find. This will stop roof damage that might go unnoticed until a heavy rain, when water could damage your home.

Check and clean your gutters, if needed. Gutters that aren’t maintained can lead to water damaging your home. You should consider cleaning them every season. It’s one of the best ways to protect your home, and it’s not a difficult project.

Look for problem tree limbs. Cut back overhanging limbs and branches that could cause damage during a storm. These limbs and branches can become projectiles during a storm. They can damage your roof, garage or your siding.

If a fire, flood or any other cause damage to your home, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We are available 247 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

Tips When Choosing a Company for Storm Restoration | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Choosing the right restoration company is crucial to getting things back to normal. Call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City to set up an appointment.

Tips When Choosing a Company for Storm Restoration | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Enduring a storm is something that may feel like a routine part of the summer, but if you sustain damage, it can turn into a headache quite quickly. In recent years, an increase in storm damage and its associated costs has been documented, so making sure you are able to take action as soon as you discover damage is key.

When you are searching for a restoration company to work with, it is recommended that you choose one that can give you peace of mind as you have the damage to your property taken care of. Working with a company you can trust is so important to making the process go smoothly, so here are some tips for making sure you are able to pick the right one for you.

Tips for Choosing the Right Restoration Company for You

Discover what their reputation is. As with anything you are purchasing for your home, it is best to do your research regarding what company will meet your needs for restoration. Check out their reputation and make sure they are actually a reputable provider of services to avoid post-disaster scams which are quite common. When you work with us, you can be certain you are getting a company that is well-regarded both on a local and national level.

Be sure they can handle an increase in restoration requests. When a large severe weather event occurs, the demand for restoration can skyrocket and lead to delays and long service times. With us, however, we have an entire network of SERVPRO® locations across the nation that can provide us with backup, so we can guarantee you will get the same level of service regardless of what demand levels look like.

Check that you can call whenever you need to. In our experience, storms do not happen at a time that would be considered convenient, but that is why we are committed to providing around-the-clock service. With our 247 emergency services, you can call us at any time that you discover damage—no matter the hour, we will immediately begin putting your restoration response into action to handle your damage as quickly as possible.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

When it comes to Storm Response-You can count on SERVPRO!

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Storm Emergency 1st Responders are ready to serve!

At SERVPRO no job too big, and no job too small for our Team of Professionals. When you need us to respond to your disaster, we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

What makes SERVPRO a different and unique company than other restoration companies, is our ability to mobilize teams to help with storm events. We have been boots on the ground during some of the most prolific catastrophic disasters in the United States when Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma hit. SERVPRO teams have been dispatched to serve as 1st responders for other events such as the California Wildfires, and the 100 year flooding in Texas. We strive to help in any way we can.

When it comes to a storm disaster, you can count on SERVPRO to show up and be well equipped to make it "Like it never even happened." We are always here to help.

Examining the Risks Associated With Flash Floods SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is your local water & storm restoration expert. We will get the job done right, contact us today. 702-564-8508

Examining the Risks Associated With Flash Floods | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Any scenario involving severe weather is one to be taken seriously, but in the event of flash floods, there are additional concerns on the table. In the United States, flood deaths are second only to heat incident deaths for weather-related fatalities, and flash floods are the most dangerous type of flood of all.

Flash floods get their name because they come about suddenly, and those in their path are rarely given an advanced notice period to react. Anything that carries water can also turn deadly in a flash flood, leading to neighborhood drainage ditches or storm runoff areas overflowing. To stay safe, it is wise to know the facts surrounding flash floods.

How Is a Flash Flood Differentiated From Other Types?

There are several different types of floods, but what makes a flash flood so dangerous is how quickly it can come about. When heavy rainfall occurs, flash floods will happen in less than six hours after they begin, often happening closer to three. These conditions create a scenario where people are not given enough notice and have very little time to evacuate or get to higher ground.

How Are People Alerted to Their Risk of a Flash Flood?

Anytime there is severe weather, it is vital to pay attention to your local weather station for the most updated alerts possible. Flash floods happen suddenly, so while a flash flood watch indicates that there may be conditions present for a flash flood, when a flash flood warning is declared, you will only have moments to react in many cases.

If there is a flash flood emergency issued, move to higher ground immediately.

How Can I Protect My Family From a Flash Flood Risk?

For a severe weather event that comes about as suddenly as a flash flood, it is so important to know the safety facts beforehand so you can think quickly under pressure. Here are some of the most important tips to memorize:

  • Always tune into local weather updates if severe weather is a possibility.
  • Have a household evacuation plan that everyone has practiced.
  • Never cross floodwater, even if you are in a car.
  • Avoid touching floodwater in any capacity, as it is often contaminated.
  • Have several evacuation routes in mind in case some become blocked by water.

If your home or business has been damaged due to a flood or other severe weather, you can depend on us. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our services or to report damage to your property.

Do All You Can to Prevent Storm Damage | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is here to provide you with a rapid response. Contact us right away if you experience any storm damage

Do All You Can to Prevent Storm Damage | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

The threat from thunderstorms and other severe weather events can be deceiving, as many pass through without ever causing damage. However, all it takes is one severe storm to cause extreme disruption in an area, often doing significant harm to homes and upending people’s lives.

Because it is impossible to tell when this will happen, we always recommend preparation as the primary method to prevent damage. Here are some tips for doing so:

Preparing for a Storm to Prevent Damage and Disruption

Prepare your home as much as possible. The types of damage that occur to homes from a storm generally involve high winds and projectiles. While you can’t control external sources of these things, you can mitigate risks from your own yard by trimming your trees often and securing any objects that could be picked up by wind. Installing a whole-house generator is an option for aftermath preparation, also.

Create a family communications plan. In an ideal scenario, your entire family will be safe at home when a storm begins, so everyone can shelter in place together until it passes. However, if you or another family member is away from home, having a plan for getting in touch and reconvening is important so that everyone is accounted for and can check in as needed.

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked. Having a household emergency kit is always recommended as the first step for any disaster preparations. Not only will they come in handy while you shelter from a storm at home, but in case the power goes out, having access to food and water will be extremely valuable. Make sure you take the needs of each family member into account as you pack yours so that nothing is forgotten.

Consider getting a weather radio. Cell phones have totally changed the way we get information, but it is still wise to keep the less digital information sources around in case of emergency. We recommend having at least a weather radio in the home, so that way you can still receive any local alerts even if your cell phone battery has died and the power is out.

If your home is damaged by a storm, you can depend on us to take care of any damages. Contact us at any hour to report damage and receive a rapid response.

Tips to Increase Your Safety in Advance of Severe Weather | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City will respond quickly to assist in any repairs.

Tips to Increase Your Safety in Advance of Severe Weather | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Any storm has the potential to cause serious destruction and should be taken seriously, and when severe weather is on the way, those in its path will often only have moments to react and seek shelter from the storm. The best thing to do is to work to increase your safety in advance of a severe weather event so that when one is possible, you are already certain you are prepared.

Having an awareness of what watches and warnings mean, stocking up on disaster supplies for your home and having a backup method to get weather alerts are all ways that you can be certain you are adequately prepared for severe weather.

Be Aware of What Watches and Warnings Mean

When severe weather is on the way, local officials will generally issue watches and warnings to keep the public informed about the current conditions, so it is important to know what they mean. A storm watch is issued if conditions are particularly favorable for a storm to develop, but one has yet to occur in the area. A storm warning is more serious, as it means storms have been spotted on the ground and are a threat to the area. During a storm watch, you can simply stay alert, but during a storm warning, you should take cover immediately

Stock Up on Disaster Supplies for the Home

The advice when severe weather is on the way is to almost always stay where you are until it moves through the area, which is where the recommendation for stocking up on disaster supplies at home stems from. Power will often go out during storms, so having flashlights (with batteries), food and water for every person in your family will help keep everyone comfortable until the threat is gone. Additionally, have a first-aid kit and a designated area to wait out the worst of the storm that is protected within the home.

Have a Backup Method for Weather Alerts

Though our primary form of communication has now become cell phones, they are not always the most reliable method of receiving weather alerts. Storms can knock out cell phone reception and electricity to charge them, so having a secondary method to receive alerts is wise. A NOAA Weather Radio is commonly recommended by experts as the most reliable.

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, we are here for you. You can contact us 247 to get a quick response to your home’s damages.

After a Storm Damage - Steps to Take Immediately

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Team Trailers ready to roll.

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health issues. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City, to help do basic tasks to secure your property and make it safe to use. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is being restored to safe living condition.

Photograph the Damage

If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.

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.

When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home, and your life, to normal. At SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City, we provide 24-hour emergency disaster service. We specialize in the stabilization and restoration of homes and businesses that have suffered small or large loss from water, flood, wind, storm, fire and smoke disaster.

Call us today, we can help! 702-564-8508

Mitigate Storm Damage With Weatherproofing | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Window being prepped for weather stripping installation

Mitigate Storm Damage With Weatherproofing | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Houses are built to withstand all sorts of weather, but when it comes to severe storms, even the sturdiest of homes can use some help standing up to the rain and winds. Taking these efforts in advance can also save you money in the long run—around half of homeowners’ insurance claims are weather-related, but many can be prevented by being vigilant against damage ahead of time.

Boosting your home’s ability to resist weather is not a big or expensive project and can have serious benefits. Read on to discover our top recommended weatherproofing tips to keep your home safe.

Weatherproofing to Mitigate Storm Damage

Keep Your Shingles in Shape
Roof leaks can happen for many reasons, and even new roofs are not immune to wear and tear. Because roof leaks can lead to so much auxiliary damage, doing regular checks can go a long way. Shingles that are loose, cracking or missing can be replaced easily to have a dramatic increase in your roof’s ability to keep water away.

Beat the Weather With Weatherstripping
Making an effort to add weatherstripping to your home can prevent leaks and save on your electricity bill. Weatherstripping enhances the seal between exterior openings and your walls, so it can keep water and drafts outside where they belong.

Gut Debris From Your Gutters
Cleaning out your gutters is recommended at least twice each year to clear out all the debris and leaves that can build up. In addition to these cleanings, watch closely for any issues. Going outside during the next rainfall can alert you to any standing water or inconsistent draining, which might indicate that there is an issue at hand.

Pick the Right Paint
Technology has infused the paint market with extremely useful developments that have to do with more than just visual appeal. Many exterior paints are now equipped to block out moisture and UV rays, reducing the wear and tear your home must withstand over the years and preventing storm damage from being able to work its way in.

If you have issues with storm damage to your home, we are always here to help. Contact us 24 hours a day for a rapid response.

When Storms Strike, We Are Here for You | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Storm is Coming!

When Storms Strike, We Are Here for You | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Severe storms occur with relative frequency, but it is important to remember how much damage they are still capable of causing. Homeowners experienced $2 billion in storm-related losses in 2018, making storm damages one of the most common reasons for household insurance claims.

The best thing you can do to mitigate storm damage is to plan ahead. Knowing your recovery plan and what restoration company to use will help you take action immediately and prevent further damages from occurring—which is why we are here 247 to respond.

<h3of-choosing-us-for-storm-restoration">Benefits of Choosing Us for Storm Restoration

All Your Damages Will Be Handled
The damage that storms cause is generally not a straightforward issue—structural damage and water damage often go hand in hand and must be repaired in tandem for a full restoration. This is why we make sure our technicians can handle whatever storm damages occur and are fully trained and certified in both structural and water restoration.

You Will Receive a Highly Trained Crew
Because of how important restoration technicians are to the quality of work delivered, we invest heavily in our training and education programs to be sure everyone is up to speed. We adhere to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification industry guidelines, and we offer many seminars, classes and online learning tools so we can offer you the utmost expertise.

Any Size of Disaster Is Doable for Us
We are fortunate to be a locally owned, community-focused business, but we also have the backing of a nation of SERVPRO® locations that we can call upon for help. In the event of highly destructive storms, we can enlist other locations to help us with restoration, ensuring that everyone in the community gets the quick and quality service they deserve.

A Reputation You Can Count On
In our many years of restoration in the community, we have seen many unscrupulous business practices pop up after severe storms. That is why we are proud of our reputation for quality and dependable service and will do everything we can to work with you and complete your restoration without hassle.

If you have experienced storm damage or want to learn more, you can call us 247 for more details.

Is Your Family Ready for Severe Weather-4 Tips to Assist

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Weather Map

Preparing for severe weather is always a good idea. Even though we may have advanced warning for some types of severe weather, there are also those occasions where severe weather can catch us off-guard.

Fortunately, there are things you can do and safety tips to follow that will ensure your family is prepared for any type of severe weather occurrences.

Have you created a family emergency plan? One of the best ways to stay ahead of the weather is to create a family emergency plan and have it available at all times.

If your family does have an emergency plan in place, be sure to discuss and practice it at the start of various weather seasons so everyone knows exactly what is expected of them and what to do.

If you’ve not yet created a family emergency plan, here are some things to take into consideration when putting one together:

1. Emergency Alerts

Warnings and alerts are always broadcast over radio and TV, but thanks to today’s technology, it is easy to receive emergency alerts and warnings on your smartphone. If you have a weather app or Google on your smartphone, emergency alerts can literally be at your fingertips, which can provide you with valuable time in severe weather situations.

2. Storm Shelter Options

In areas where tornadoes are common, you’ll want to be in the lowest part of your home, preferably a basement if you have one. If that is not possible, locate an interior room on the lowest level that is away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls. Tornadoes aren’t the only weather circumstance that require shelter, and you can learn about more of the situations that call for them by visiting ready.gov.

3. Evacuation Routes

You should always have multiple evacuation routes mapped out, since things such as hurricanes, flooding and fires can force you from your home in a hurry. Also, be sure to take your pets into consideration and find out if there are places to stay with your pets along the way if you have furry family members evacuating with you.

4. Communication Methods

We all rely on cell phones to keep in touch with family, but that will not always be possible in some circumstances. Cell phone towers can be damaged in storms, phones could be lost or left behind, and where no power is available, recharging them will be impossible.

Have an emergency communications plan in place for your family and also designate a safe meeting place for your family in case you become separated.

If a storm does cause damage to your home or business, don’t hesitate to call your friends at SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City at 702-564-8508 to get the cleanup and restoration process started.

Staying Safe When Lightning Is Near

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Storm and lighting damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your home, you need the company with experience

Lightning is one of the most dramatic aspects of a thunderstorm—and also one of the most dangerous. Lightning strikes can start fires, ruin electronics and cause structural damage, in addition to all the safety hazards they pose to those who are outside during a storm.

Being aware of what lightning is and how it causes damage are important components of staying safe.

How Lightning Occurs

Thunderstorms all form an electrical charge, which is what causes thunder and lightning. In technical terms, a lightning bolt is the storm dispelling some of this energy, either into another cloud or to the ground.

When lightning does strike toward the ground, it will usually select an object to pass through, as the atmosphere is a poor conductor. Because of the power and charge behind lightning, this is what can lead to damages.

What Damages Can Lightning Cause?

As lightning travels through a home, it will mainly fuel its energy into the electrical wiring and water pipes, as those make for the best conductors. That is why there are three main types of damages associated with lightning:

1. Fires can break out. Lightning, at around 500,000 degrees, is hot enough to ignite most buildings on impact. Additionally, the damage it causes to wires within the home can lead to electrical fires either right away or later on. If your home has been struck, an electrician or the fire department will typically be able to assess the damage and make you aware of any risks.

2. Electronics may get overloaded. As lightning transfers its charge to the home’s electrical grid, it also channels that energy up any cables connected. This intense burst of power can cause a surge, ruining some electronics. Using surge protectors can prevent this from happening.

3. Shock waves can damage foundations. A shock wave in the clouds is heard as thunder, but a shock wave when lightning strikes the ground can cause serious damage. The force of these waves is strong enough to compromise masonry and shatter windows, so after the storm passes, a thorough home inspection is recommended.

If your home has been affected by storm damages or lightning-related fires, give us a call today! We are experts in damage cleanup and can restore your damage quickly.

Common Types of Thunderstorm Damage

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Large Hail Stones can cause extensive damage to a home or business

Thunderstorms are a common occurrence during the warm spring and the summer months. However, with these thunderstorms comes a chance for storm damage caused by those thunderstorms.

How much do you know about the different types of damage that can come from thunderstorms?

How Thunderstorms Form

An estimated 16 million thunderstorms occur across the world each year. The U.S. typically sees an estimated 100,000 thunderstorms each year, with around 10% of those being included in the severe range.

There are certain conditions that must be met for the development of a thunderstorm. Moisture and rising unstable air must be accompanied by a “lifting” mechanism. This could be caused by hills or mountains that force air to rise, or where warm/cold or wet/dry air come together, causing a rising motion.

The life cycle of a thunderstorm goes through three different stages—the developing stage, the mature stage and the dissipating stage. The mature stage is where things like hail, heavy rain, strong winds and even tornadoes may come into play.

Differing Types of Damage

Thunderstorms can be dangerous for many different reasons, but one of the most serious risks is the opportunity for high winds to send debris airborne.

It is possible for wind speeds to reach an excess of 57.5 mph during a thunderstorm. This is more than enough wind to create property damage.

Thunderstorms are also responsible for causing the following types of damage besides wind damage:

Hail damage. The cost of hail damage can reach $1 billion a year per the NOAA. From small hail to large, it doesn’t take long for damage to add up.

Lightning damage. With a lightning strike can come fire and electrical damage. The lightning can move through the wiring of your home, which will result in damage to anything that is plugged in.

Tornado damage. With wind speeds that can reach an excess of 200 mph, tornadoes are an extremely destructive force. They can do a large amount of damage in a rather short amount of time.

Flood damage. Heavy rain is a common companion for a thunderstorm, which means there can be a risk for flooding. Flash floods can do a large amount of damage to structures and even rip trees out of the ground.

If a thunderstorm has resulted in damage to your home or business, know that the team at SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City is available 247 to help with cleanup and restoration.

Hail Causes the Most Storm Damage Costs Across North America

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

The icy weather phenomenon leads to more than $10 billion in damages each year. Nonetheless, research on hail is lacking, scientists say.

Gregg Cruger holds hailstones in an egg carton, collected from a storm that damaged his family’s home in Louisville, Colo., on 18 June. Cruger and his wife, Katy Human, witnessed the storm from their front porch. Credit: Helen H. Richardson/Contributor/Denver Post/Getty Images

By

On 18 June, Katy Human and her family watched as tiny chunks of ice fell from the sky.

At first, Human and her family, of Louisville, Colo., were delighted.

“Hail is cool and relatively rare, so we all went out on the front porch to watch it,” she said. However, “Over the next 10 minutes, it got bigger and bigger.” The family backed up, pressing against the wall of their house as golf- and tennis-ball-sized hailstones pummeled their yard.

Leaves and hailstones litter a car that was smashed in a hailstorm on 18 June in Louisville, Colo. Resident Katy Human said that her family’s two vehicles, which were parked outside during the storm, were totaled. Credit: Katy Human

“We have a garage, but both cars were out,” she said. “It went from ‘Oh, my God, isn’t this beautiful’ to ‘Holy crap, this is doing a lot of damage.’”

Human’s family was witness to something that people in the insurance industry have long known. Tornadoes and hurricanes may grab headlines, but when it comes to property damage, the biggest extreme weather culprit is an often overlooked weather phenomenon: hail.

Hailstorm destruction exceeds $10 billion each year across North America, accounting for almost 70% of the property damage in insurance claims from severe storms, said Ian Giammanco, lead research meteorologist at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety’s research center in Richburg, S.C. But, he said, funding for hail studies is limited, and the phenomenon is often treated by the public as a curiosity.

“It’s the Rodney Dangerfield of perils,” he said of hail. “It just doesn’t get any respect.”

Giammanco spoke Tuesday on a panel of scientists at the North American Workshop on Hail & Hailstorms. The 3-day symposium, the first of its kind in the United States, was hosted by the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colo.

Making Hail

The workshop occurred just a week after a severe hailstorm pelted Colorado Springs, about an hour’s drive from Boulder, with hailstones reported to be as large as softballs. The storm caused millions of dollars in property damage, injured more than a dozen people, and killed five animals in the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

Colorado and the central United States are hot spots for hailstorms, explained panelist Andreas Prein, an NCAR project scientist expert on climate modeling with a focus on severe storms. Colloquially called “hail alley,” the area has the right conditions for severe thunderstorms that can produce large hailstones.

A severe hailstorm needs unstable air with a strong updraft, differing wind speeds and wind directions, air that’s humid close to the ground and dry at higher altitudes, and a freezing point that’s relatively close to the ground.

These conditions work together to form the largest hailstones, by drawing moisture up from the ground and quickly cooling it into hailstones; circulating those hailstones around and around within the storm, allowing them to pick up moisture and grow larger; and giving them a short distance to fall back to Earth, so they don’t melt on the way down, Prein said.

Climate Effects Unclear

Hail damage is expected to increase in coming years, largely driven by population growth and suburban sprawl. Sprawl means more buildings, and thus “bigger targets for hailstorms to hit,” Giammanco said.

But humans are also thought to be influencing hail itself, through climate change. The effect, however, isn’t straightforward, influencing hail-forming conditions in varied and sometimes contradictory ways, Prein explained.

For example, climate change is expected to increase air buoyancy for strong updrafts, but at the same time it appears to be causing the freezing level to move higher above the ground. “The question is, How are these things interacting, and how are they affecting hail frequency?” Prein said.

He noted that whereas most of the country has seen hail decrease over the past 100 years, certain areas, including the central United States and the mid-Atlantic states, have seen it become more frequent and severe.

“We need more research on that to really understand how climate change and climate variability [are] changing hail hazard,” Prein said.

Efforts to Study Hail

Hail expert and panelist Andrew Heymsfield, NCAR senior scientist and cochairman of the workshop, noted that a hailstorm-penetrating aircraft that had been used to gather important data since the 1970s was decommissioned in 2003, leaving scientists without an important tool for research for the past 15 years.

Another panelist, Kristen Rasmussen, an atmospheric scientist at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, hopes to help reset the scales. She travels to Argentina later this year to study one of the most hail-prone areas in the world.

Storms producing hail the size of oranges and grapefruits are a yearly occurrence in areas like Mendoza, and hail causes significant monetary damage to the region’s many vineyards. But the area lacked any storm forecasting ground radar or warning systems—such as those provided by the National Weather Service in the United States—until about a year ago, she explained.

For her field project, funded by the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy, Rasmussen plans to bring a suite of ground-based radars, hydrological gauges, lightning mapping instruments, and other equipment to learn more about the science of severe storms and hail formation. “We’re trying to study the whole convective process from beginning to end,” she said.

Extensive Damage

For Human, who works with storm researchers as communications director for the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder, the science of hail is now personal.

After the 18 June storm, she and her family stumbled out into the street; it was difficult to walk because they kept slipping on the smooth spheres of ice that littered the ground. There they joined their shocked neighbors in inspecting the damage. “Both cars were totaled,” she recalled. Her home’s solar panels were smashed and the roof was battered. Human would later learn that the whole roof had to be replaced. Human estimates the total damages at around $50,000, which will be covered by insurance.

Still, Human didn’t lose her sense of wonder for hail. “They’re beautiful when they crack open,” she said. “There are these intricately layered concentric circles, like tree rings. They’re gorgeous.”

Want more information of Storm Damage. Call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City today at: 702-564-8508

Spring Storm Preparedness

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

Be Prepared when Spring Storms Become Severe

Each year a startling 10,000 thunderstorms and 1,000 tornadoes impact the United States. Potentially deadly severe weather impacts everyone. Here's what you can do to prepare yourself and your family.

Before Severe Weather Strikes

  • Keep an eye on the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of light or increasing wind. Listen for the sound of thunder.
  • Go to a safe shelter immediately!
  • Listen to Local/National Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for the latest weather forecasts.
  • Unplug appliances. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances.
  • Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.
  • Turn off the air conditioner. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressor.
  • Draw blinds and shades over windows. If windows break due to objects blown by the wind, the shades will prevent glass from shattering into your home.

Protecting Yourself Outside

  • If you are in the woods, go to a safe building. Make sure it is fully enclosed with a roof and four walls. Tents, shelters, pavilions, or dugouts will not keep you safe.
  • If you are unable to find a shelter, find a low-lying, open place away from trees, telephone poles, or metal objects.
  • Get low to the ground, on the balls of your feet in a crouching position. The goal is to get as low as possible, while minimizing your contact with the ground. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them.

After the Storm Passes

  • Stay away from storm-damaged areas.
  • Listen to the radio for information and instructions.

If Someone is Struck by Lightning

  • People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge and can be handled safely.
  • Call or have someone dial 911.

For more information on severe weather, please call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City at:  702-564-8508

Are you Prepared? Storm Preparedness Tips

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding due to Storm Event

April showers bring May flowers is a popular saying, it is also a reminder to make sure your home is safe from unpredictable rain and wind storms. 

A good rule of thumb is to perform inspections on your home before a storm hits. Sit down and go over some questions to ask yourself, such as, do all of your windows and doors fit to create a tight seal? When was the last time you had the roof inspected? Are the trees in the yard trimmed and cut back enough, so they are not hitting your dwelling repeatedly should high winds surface? 

In the event of a bad storm do you have an emergency plan in place? Do you have an emergency ready bag for you and all family members living with you, in case you need to leave your home? Is there a designated meeting spot secured? Having an emergency plan for communication may be a good idea as well. 

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is here to help for any of your storm damage needs. We do board ups, roof tarpings, water damages, as well as fire damages that may result from storm damage. We are always ready and #HereToHelp. 

Call today at 702-564-8508 and ask about our FREE Emergency Response Profile for your home.

The Basics of Wind Damage

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

High Powered Winds Tore Roof Shingles Off Of House

There are many concerns that come with severe storms, with the threat of damaging winds being one of them. These winds can come with little to no notice and have long-term structural impacts.

An Intro to Damaging Winds

While many think of damaging winds as a result of a tornado or a hurricane, those are not the only times when they can occur. Traditionally, damaging winds are considered those with wind speeds exceeding 50–60 mph and can stem from a strong thunderstorm. You will often hear damaging winds referred to as “straight-line” winds, differentiating them from the winds caused by a tornado.

The damage from these winds can be especially destructive. Straight-line winds can pick up loose objects in your yard and cause those objects to become projectiles.

Windows and the roof can take the brunt of this damage, and the wind damage is extensive enough, water damage can result as the outside elements are able to come indoors.

Anyone who lives in a thunderstorm-prone area can be at risk from damaging winds, but some structures are more susceptible to damage and are especially at risk. Mobile homes, even anchored mobile homes, can sustain extensive damage in wind gusts over 80 mph.

How to Protect Your Home From Damaging Winds

Here are some of the ways you can help protect your property from damaging winds. Always keep the “Two R’s” in mind: reinforce and remove.

  • Ask a professional to reinforce your garage door.

  • Remove or anchor loose objects on your property that could easily turn into projectiles by the wind. Don’t forget trash cans, grills and outdoor furniture.

  • Hire a professional to remove large or dying trees and branches that may fall on your home.

Not all high wind circumstances come with forewarning, but incorporating some of these suggestions keep your prepared for that “just in case” moment.

Also, if you are building a new home or renovating an older home, check to be sure the windows, walls and doors are up to code for your area.

Should your home be hit by damaging winds and resulting water damage, our highly trained specialists at SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City are here to help with the cleanup and restoration of your home.

Making Sure Your Family Is Ready for Severe Weather

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Preparing for severe weather is always a good idea. Even though we may have advanced warning for some types of severe weather, there are also those occasions where severe weather can catch us off-guard.

Fortunately, there are things you can do and safety tips to follow that will ensure your family is prepared for any type of severe weather occurrences.

A Severe Weather Plan for Your Family

Have you created a family emergency plan? One of the best ways to stay ahead of the weather is to create a family emergency plan and have it available at all times.

If your family does have an emergency plan in place, be sure to discuss and practice it at the start of various weather seasons so everyone knows exactly what is expected of them and what to do.

If you’ve not yet created a family emergency plan, here are some things to take into consideration when putting one together:

1. Emergency Alerts

Warnings and alerts are always broadcast over radio and TV, but thanks to today’s technology, it is easy to receive emergency alerts and warnings on your smartphone. If you have a weather app or Google on your smartphone, emergency alerts can literally be at your fingertips, which can provide you with valuable time in severe weather situations.

2. Storm Shelter Options

In areas where tornadoes are common, you’ll want to be in the lowest part of your home, preferably a basement if you have one. If that is not possible, locate an interior room on the lowest level that is away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls. Tornadoes aren’t the only weather circumstance that require shelter, and you can learn about more of the situations that call for them by visiting ready.gov.

3. Evacuation Routes

You should always have multiple evacuation routes mapped out, since things such as hurricanes, flooding and fires can force you from your home in a hurry. Also, be sure to take your pets into consideration and find out if there are places to stay with your pets along the way if you have furry family members evacuating with you.

4. Communication Methods

We all rely on cell phones to keep in touch with family, but that will not always be possible in some circumstances. Cell phone towers can be damaged in storms, phones could be lost or left behind, and where no power is available, recharging them will be impossible.

Have an emergency communication plan in place for your family and also designate a safe meeting place for your family in case you become separated.

If a storm does cause damage to your home or business, don’t hesitate to call your friends at SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City at 702-564-8508 to get the cleanup and restoration process started.

When Storms or Floods hit Henderson/Boulder City, NV. SERVPRO is ready!

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded River during a storm event

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City 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 Clark County, NV., we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams 

https://www.SERVPROhendersonbouldercity.com/disaster-recovery

that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 702-564-8508

Spring Storms Preparedness

3/23/2018 (Permalink)

April showers bring May flowers is a popular saying, it is also a reminder to make sure your home is safe from unpredictable rain and wind storms. 

It's always a good idea to perform inspections on your home before a storm hits. Some good questions to ask yourself may be, do all of your windows and doors fit to create a tight seal? When was the last time you had someone take a look at your roof? Trees are also something that could cause damage during high winds. 

In the event of a bad storm do you have a plan in place or even a ready bag in case you need to leave your home. A meeting spot or emergency for of communication may be a good idea as well. 

SERVPRO of Henderson and Boulder City. Is here to help for any of your storm damage needs. We do board ups, roof tarpings, water damages, as well as fire damages that may result from storm damage.

Las Vegas Rain Storm Causes Roof Damage

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Rain causes ceiling damage in Las Vegas home.

Living in fabulous Las Vegas we are lucky not get the kind of natural disasters the rest of the country has to face. The worst we get is rain. Although when it does rain, it pours. It can cause flooding and as you can see from the photo, damage in your ceiling if you have a leaky roof.

Luckily this customer caught it in time and we were able to assist before the loss got any bigger. To find wet spots in the ceiling we had a couple different tools we can use to help find moisture. 

Moisture meters are what we use to determine where moisture is and how saturated building material is. We can also use thermal cameras to find moisture. Thermal cameras pick up temperature and not necessarily moisture but we spots tend to be a good amount colder than dry spots. These tools on a roof leak help ensure we find all the moister that has entered your home from a rain storm.

Record Low Temps Could Lead To Pipe Bursts

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

These past two weeks have been record lows for the valley. We even had snow for the first time in 8 years. When temperatures dip that low that could lead to an increased risk in pipes freezing and bursting. Anytime the temperature gets below 32 degrees, which is the freezing point for water, you should follow these tips.

If you are leaving town always check the weather in your area in case of freezing temps. 

  • Make sure outside exposed piping is properly insulated with foam.
  • Turn off the water to your home.
  • Put a slow drip on your faucets to avoid pressure build up.
  • Open cabinets where water pipes are to circulate warm air if you are planing on keeping your house cooler to avoid wasting electricity.

If a pipe does burst there are a few things you can do before SERVPRO arrives.

  • If a pipe is still leaking, do what you can to catch the water. Put a bucket down or absorb the water with towels.
  • Turn off all electronic appliances in the area.
  • If you have a leak in under cabinets, keep the doors open to help circulate air to promote faster drying.
  • Put foil under any wooden furniture to prevent staining or damaging the legs of the wood.

Storm Damage Devastates Customers Home and Contents

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

Television getting covered with water and insulation from roof leak.

As you can tell from the photo the ceiling collapsed and blew insulation all over the house. The cause of loss was from rain water coming in through a ceiling with broken or missing tiles.

Having a damaged roof can cause real problems. Not only did this customer have to deal with moisture in building materials, She had a lot of contents that were affected as well. Rain doesn't happen too often here, but when it does it can be devastating. This customer had to move out of her home because so much of the roof was affected and blew insulation all over her home.

Did you know we, at SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City did roof tarpings. In the event that your roof may be susceptible to leaks, we can come out tarp it to protect your home from a potential water damage.

Missing Shingles or Broken Tiles? You may need a roof tarping.

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

Roof tarping before heavy rains in Henderson, Nevada

It doesn't rain a lot here in Las Vegas, so you might not know the condition of your roof. Rain water can cause sizable damage if you aren't prepared. 

This photo is from a roof tarping we did in January from the big rains we had. This customer had a leak and couldn't get it fixed right away so to prevent further damage, we tarp it off with plastic.

This is only a temporary fix to prevent further damage. If you notice missing or broken tiles, that may be an indication of future water damage during rain storms. It may also be a good idea to get your roof inspected after long periods without rain.

Remember SERVPRO of Henderson and Boulder City next time you need a roof tarping. 

Longest Drought In Vegas History Ends and Brings Water Damage Throughout The Valley

1/17/2018 (Permalink)

Water bubble formed from roof leak

After 116 days of drought, record breaking rains brought down 1.33 inches last week as reported at McCarran Airport. Along with the extremely high number of auto accidents, there were also a high number of claims from roof leaks. 

As you can see in the photo, these customers had a massive bubble where the moisture got trapped between the paint and drywall. In situations like this if a bubble isn't visible, you may see staining on the ceiling. This is also a result or moisture being present.

The rains can bring a lot of headache and frustration. SERVPRO of Henderson and Boulder City can help make it, "Like it never even happened."  Call us for your next roof leak, flood, or even if you just need a moisture inspection.

Storms hitting valley only to get worse

5/30/2017 (Permalink)

Crews go out before storm to perform roof tarping

This past spring the Las Vegas valley has seen the winds come though and rip things apart. Trees, power lines and roof shingles. When the wind damages your roof and causes shingle damage, which in turn can cause water damage if it rains. 

Most people don't know that SERVPRO provided roof tarping as a service. As a 24 hour service we have crews on standby ready to go out at a moments notice when storms or disaster hit. 

This customer was so pleased that we could come out so quickly and prevent any damage that the rain may have caused. 

Incase you didn't know SERVPRO of Henderson and Boulder City provided roof tarping, you probably didn't know we did move outs and packing, document drying, as well as many cleaning services like biohazard, and vandalism. 

Storm Damage? Call Us

3/24/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Henderson and Boulder City has been working for the Southern Nevada community for 20 years this summer.

We have seen it all, but we are extremely proud of our emergency preparedness. We understand that things happen at the worst possible times. For that reason we have crews on standby 24/7/365. We have equipment ready to be used where and whenever we need it.

When storms roll through and you need an emergency tarp up for your roof or you need to use our board up services, we are ready when you need us. 

When we had heavy rains during the winter we were filling up sand bags for tarp ups faster than the rain was falling.

Keep SERVPRO in mind so you can maintain your peace of mind the next time a storm comes through and disrupts your life.

Storm Damage Causes Problems

3/23/2017 (Permalink)

Special containment to help protect against storm

The problem with having a leaky roof is that you don't know you have one until its too late, and if it happens to be in a room you don't use often, it can be really bad. This room had a balcony on top and because it wasn't covered on the top we had to completely contain the walls and ceiling with plastic. You can see we used wood and nailed it to the studs to keep the plastic from falling down. Putting something this elaborate can be challenging enough but when you are on the job on a Friday and the forecast over the weekend says rain you really have to work extra hard to protect the structure. We took extra crews out there with production managers to make sure everything was taken care of before the rain hit.

Spring Floods

3/3/2017 (Permalink)

Spring is on its way and that means showers. With showers comes flooding so we have a few tips to put your mind at ease and enjoy the beautiful, warm weather. 

  • Never walk or drive down flooded streets. We have a lot of roads that flood because our city was not set up with with rain floods in mind. It can only take 6 inches of water to be swept off your feet.
  • Check your insurance policy to see what type of flood insurance you have. You never know what mother nature is up to, the fewer intrusions in your life, the better.
  • Lastly, it is always a good idea to have an emergency plan in place. Set one up with friends or family. It is also a good idea to make sure you have plenty of supplies in your car in case of such emergency.

You can also download our app to help with emergency preparedness for your home or business! Call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City for questions about Flood Safety.

Weep Screed. Know What It Is.

2/22/2017 (Permalink)

Moisture Meter

This little device is called a moisture meter. It is used to detect moisture in such things as flooring, wall, and ceiling. During a week when we had some bad rain storms this customer had flooding in his home.

The water came in from under the weep screed. The weep screed is an object to prevent water from entering your house from underneath. That is why you see landscaping stop short of the foundation a few inches under the slab. This is to prevent water in storm events or irrigation going under that and flooding your house. For any questions or concerns call and have your local SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City representative come check it out. 

Are You Prepared For Natural Disasters?

2/22/2017 (Permalink)

Natural disasters can strike anywhere

Natural disasters can strike whenever but being prepared on your part can save you time, money and effort. How fast your company can get back to business after a tornado, fire or flood often depends on the emergency planning done today. Though every situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place, and practice for all kinds of emergencies.

Be informed

- Do you know what kind of emergencies might affect your company? Do you know what you will do in an emergency situation?

Develop a Business Continuity Plan

- Do you know which staff, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep operating? Do you have back-up pans for those operations? Do you know what you will do if your building or plant is not accessible? Do you know what you will do if your suppliers are impacted by disaster? Are you ready for utility disruptions?

Prepare your Emergency Plan

- Do you have an evacuation and shelter-in-pace plan? Do you have a plan to communicate with employees before, during and after an incident? Do you have copies of building and site maps with utilities and emergency routes marked? Are your employees trained for medical emergencies?

Practice the Emergency Plan

- Have you practiced your plan recently? Do you practice and coordinate with other businesses in your building or industrial complex? Have you reviewed your plans in the last 12 months?

Review Insurance Coverage

- Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you’re covered in a disaster?

Secure Your Facility and Equipment

- Have you secured all the ways people, products and supplies get into your building? Have you conducted a room-by-room walk through to determine what can be strapped down?

Improve Cyber Security

- Do you regularly install patches to your software? Have you installed a firewall on your computer? Do you regularly update your anti-virus software?

Promote Family and Individual Preparedness

- Do you encourage employees to have a personal emergency supply kit and a family communication plan?

Ceiling falling due to storm

2/14/2017 (Permalink)

This home affected by hurricane Sandy had a taken a lot of water in the ceiling.This home was in the main path of the storm. This was the basement, and the majority of there belongings and contents were stored in that room. So SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City came in moved the items, cleaned and packed out her belongings, removed wet insulation and placed drying equipment. the end result is a dried home ready for the rebuild teams to come in and finish out the home and make it once again whole. 


When facing a catastrophe do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City. Big or small we do it all. As the premier restoration company we have the tools and abilities to accomplish anything to help you put your life back together

Helping the Victims of a Hurricane

1/23/2017 (Permalink)

Having a storm come through your neighborhood can be a trying time and stressful for everyone around. Let SERVPRO be your contact and give you peace of mind when disaster strikes. With the quickest response times and crews constantly on stand by, "Faster to any Disaster" is more than just a motto. The benefit of being apart the national SERVPRO brand is we have the resources to be as big or as small as we need to be. 

When we got the call that there was help needed in New York when hurricane Sandy hit we packed up our trucks and drove out with crews for a few weeks to help out. After speaking with crews after they returned they found it very rewarding to help people in such need.

Disaster Response Team: Waiting on Standby

8/25/2015 (Permalink)

Emergency Response from SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City

At SERVPRO there is no job too big, no job too small, and when you need us to respond to your disaster, that is exactly what we will do 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Part of what makes SERVPRO a unique company is our ability to mobilize teams to help with large scale catastrophic event response.

SERVPRO teams have been dispatched to serve as responders for major catastrophic storms and other events such as Hurricane Sandy, California Wildfires, Hurricane Katrina, and many more.

When it comes to a disaster contained inside your home or business the team that responds to your private disaster will be well equipped to make it "Like it never happened."