Preparing for Storm Season: Essential Tips from SERVPRO®

6/16/2024 (Permalink)

A multifamily storage room/basement floods after storms.

Storms can be unpredictable and potentially devastating, especially in Northeast Minneapolis where weather conditions can vary significantly throughout the year. At SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis, we understand the challenges that severe weather can bring, and we're dedicated to helping our community prepare and recover. Here are some essential tips to help you safeguard your home or business and minimize storm damage.

Understanding Storm Risks

Storms in our area can bring a variety of hazards, including:

• Flooding: Heavy rains can lead to flooding, particularly in low-lying areas or places with poor drainage.
• Wind Damage: Strong winds can cause structural damage, uproot trees, and cause debris to become projectiles.
• Hail: Hailstones can damage roofs, windows, and vehicles, leading to significant repair costs.

Being aware of these risks is the first step in effective storm preparation.

Storm Preparation Tips

1. Inspect Your Property

Regular maintenance can prevent many storm-related issues:

• Roof and Gutters: Check your roof for missing or damaged shingles and clean out gutters to ensure proper drainage.
• Windows and Doors: Consider installing storm shutters or using impact-resistant windows to protect against high winds and debris.
• Trees and Landscaping: Trim trees and shrubs to remove dead or overhanging branches that could fall during a storm.

2. Create an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is essential for handling the aftermath of a storm:

• Water and Food: Have at least a three-day supply of water and non-perishable food items.
• First Aid Supplies: Include a basic first aid kit, along with any necessary prescription medications.
• Tools and Supplies: Include items like flashlights, batteries, a multi-tool, and a portable phone charger.
• Important Documents: Store copies of important documents in a waterproof container.

3. Develop a Family Emergency Plan

Having a clear plan can make a significant difference in an emergency:

• Communication Plan: Decide on a way for family members to contact each other if separated during a storm.
• Evacuation Plan: Know the safest routes out of your area and have a plan for where to go.
• Safe Room: Identify a safe room in your home where family members can take shelter during severe weather.

During the Storm

• Stay Informed: Use a battery-powered weather radio or smartphone apps to receive real-time weather updates.
• Stay Safe: Avoid windows, use your safe room, and stay indoors during severe weather events.
• Power Safety: Be cautious with electrical appliances, and never use electrical devices if there is water damage.

After the Storm

1. Ensure Safety First

• Check for Hazards: Look for downed power lines, structural damage, and other hazards before leaving your home.
• Avoid Floodwaters: Floodwaters can contain hazardous materials and should be avoided.

2. Document the Damage

• Photographs: Take detailed photos of any damage for insurance claims.
• Inventory: List damaged items and structural damage to provide to your insurance provider.

3. Contact SERVPRO

If your property experiences storm damage, SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis is ready to help:

• 24/7 Emergency Response: We are available around the clock to respond to your storm damage needs.
• Comprehensive Restoration Services: From water extraction and drying to full-scale repairs, our team is equipped to handle all aspects of storm damage recovery.
• Expertise and Technology: Our trained technicians use advanced equipment and proven methods to restore your property effectively.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis?

• Local Expertise: As a local business, we understand the specific challenges posed by storm conditions in Northeast Minneapolis.
• Rapid Response: We prioritize quick response times to minimize further damage to your property.
• Customer Satisfaction: Our goal is to make the restoration process as smooth and stress-free as possible for our clients.

Storms can be overwhelming, but with the right preparation and support, you can navigate them successfully. SERVPRO is here to support our community with expert storm damage prevention and restoration services. Stay prepared, stay safe, and know that we're here to assist you through any storm-related challenges.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.

A Complete Storm Preparedness Guide for Pet Owners

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

Your pets are cherished family members, and protecting them from extreme weather can often feel daunting. We're here to make that job easier with our comprehensive guide, ensuring not just your readiness for the storm but also your pet's comfort and safety before, during, and after the storm.

1. Prepare a Pet Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is your first line of defense in stormy weather, and your pets need one just as critically as you do. Regularly restock pet food and water, aiming to have at least a five-day supply. Keep a bag of litter handy for indoor restroom needs. Up-to-date copies of your pet's medical records and a list of necessary medications are also important to include. Don't forget to add a comfortable leash, a familiar blanket – even a love-worn toy or two — to provide comfort in their cozy crate.

2. Create a Safe Space

Storms bring a lot of unsettling and scary noises that can distress your pets, making creating a safe, calm space essential. Designate a room in your house away from windows, preferably in the interior, as their storm-soothing sanctuary. Familiar items like their favorite bed, toys, or soft music can help suppress their anxiety.

3. Get Them ID’d

Proactive identification measures can be invaluable in case your pet goes missing during a storm. In addition to an ID tag with your current contact information on their collar, we recommend considering microchipping your pet. Most pet shelters and veterinary clinics can scan lost pets for microchips, increasing the odds of a reunion if you get separated.

4. Keep an Eye on the Forecast

Weather alerts are an indispensable tool for pet owners. Staying updated with the local forecast can help you anticipate severe weather conditions and give you time to move your pets to a safe location indoors. Mobile weather apps and NOAA Weather Radios offer real-time alerts.

5. Plan an Evacuation Strategy

Knowing where you can take your pets if you need to evacuate can save critical time during a storm. Research pet-friendly shelters and hotels in and around your area. Alternatively, you could also set up an arrangement with out-of-town friends or relatives willing to temporarily house your pets during weather emergencies.

6. Practice Makes Perfect

Stress-free evacuation starts with a well-practiced plan. Running regular drills, including your pets, familiarizes them with the process and eases anxiety during a real event. Remember, even pets can sense stress. If they're used to drills, they're more likely to remain calm during an actual evacuation.

As storm preparedness experts at SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis, we acknowledge that protecting your pets during a storm requires multifaceted preparedness. You're not just ensuring their safety; you're preserving their sense of security and peace. And remember, if your home faces any storm damage, our dedicated team is just a call away, ready to make it "Like it never even happened." Stay safe, alert, and pet-ready with SERVPRO®.

Storm-Proofing Your Landscaping: Trees, Shrubs, and Garden Tips

9/13/2023 (Permalink)

Severe weather conditions, such as storms, can wreak havoc on your landscaping. Trees and shrubs can cause damage to your house or your neighbor’s house, and wind and heavy rain can ruin delicate plants. However, there are plenty of steps you can take to mitigate these risks. In this blog post, we will discuss ways of storm-proofing your landscaping by offering tips to safeguard your trees, shrubs, and garden.

Prune Your Trees and Shrubs

Regularly maintaining your trees and shrubs is essential for many reasons, and storm-proofing is one of them. Overgrown branches and shrubs can easily snap or break off during high winds, causing damage to your property or your neighbor’s property. Properly pruned trees and shrubs can better withstand harsh weather conditions, helping them avoid damage.

Plant and Stake Trees Properly

Proper planting and staking are key to keeping trees strong and upright during storms. Make sure you plant your trees according to their specific needs and size. Use stakes to help them remain upright and rooted during heavy winds. However, be careful not to over-stake your trees or tie them too tightly. Over staking can cause damage to the roots and limit the tree’s ability to sway or move naturally, which is essential in strong winds.

Certain plant varieties are better suited to survive high winds. For example, small, dense trees such as dogwoods and hawthorns are less likely to lose branches than larger, more brittle trees like maples and oaks. Additionally, plants with strong stems and flexible branches, such as bamboo and ornamental grasses, are more likely to withstand heavy storms.

Install Drainage Systems

Large amounts of rainfall can wreak havoc on your property and your garden. Heavy storms can result in standing water, root rot, and damage to plants. Consider installing a French drain or other drainage systems to avoid water logging and prevent these issues.

Gazebos, pergolas, and garden arches are beautiful, but they can become deadly projectiles during high winds. To protect your property and prevent damage, reinforce these structures with cables or braces, or secure them to the ground. During warnings of anticipated storms, bring potted plants or small trees indoors to minimize any potential damage. This activity can also protect your investment in your gardening and landscaping.

Storm-proofing your landscaping can prevent damage to your property and conserve the beauty of your yard. By properly pruning your trees and shrubs, planting and staking your trees properly, choosing wind-resistant plant varieties, installing drainage systems for better water management, reinforcing garden structures, and bringing potted plants indoors, you can reduce the risks of damage during storms. Keep in mind, the aforementioned steps will not entirely eliminate all threats; however, they give your landscaping a greater chance of survival in inclement weather.

5 Common Causes of Sewage Backup and How to Prevent Them

6/15/2023 (Permalink)

Sewage backups are a common problem that homeowners face, especially in their basements. These backups can cause severe damage to your home and pose a risk to your health. In this blog post, we will discuss what can cause a sewage backup in your basement.

Blockages in the sewer line

One of the most common causes of a sewage backup in your basement is a blockage in the sewer line. Blockages can occur due to various reasons, such as tree roots growing into the sewer line, flushing inappropriate items down the toilet, or accumulation of grease and other materials in the sewer line.

Damaged sewer lines

Another cause of sewage backups in your basement can be damaged sewer lines. These lines can become damaged due to age, wear and tear, or other factors such as ground movement, corrosion, or extreme weather conditions. Damaged sewer lines can cause sewage backups to occur, and it is essential to repair or replace them as soon as possible.

Heavy rainfall or flooding

Heavy rainfall or flooding can also cause sewage backups in your basement. When there is heavy rainfall, the sewage system can become overwhelmed, leading to sewage backups in your home. Similarly, during floods, sewage can back up into your basement through the sewer line, causing severe damage to your property and posing a health risk.

Malfunctioning septic systems

If you have a septic system, it is crucial to ensure that it is well-maintained and functioning correctly. A malfunctioning septic system can cause sewage backups in your basement, leading to property damage and health risks. It is important to have your septic system inspected regularly and have any necessary repairs or maintenance performed promptly.

Structural issues

Lastly, structural issues with your home can also cause sewage backups in your basement. If the foundation of your home is damaged, it can lead to a shift in the pipes, causing them to become misaligned. Misaligned pipes can cause sewage backups to occur in your basement, and it is essential to have these issues addressed promptly.

Take Action to Prevent Sewage Backups in Your Basement

In conclusion, there are several causes of sewage backups in your basement. Blockages in the sewer line, damaged sewer lines, heavy rainfall or flooding, malfunctioning septic systems, and structural issues with your home can all lead to sewage backups. If you experience a sewage backup in your basement, it is essential to contact a professional restoration company immediately to mitigate the damage and ensure that your home is safe and sanitary.

3 Tips for Driving on Flooded Roads

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Three Flooded Road Driving Tips

Encountering a flooded street in an unfamiliar area can be a harrowing experience. When attempting to cross a road with either standing or moving water, remember that a foot of water can float most vehicles, while two feet can carry away even a heavy truck. Also, a flooded road can hide dangerous obstacles such as potholes, debris, fallen power lines, and washed away sections of road.
Here are three travel tips that can help you safely cope with floods in Falcon Heights MN.

1. Be Prepared for Flooded Street Conditions

Know what the road conditions will be before embarking on your trip. Follow weather alerts and research area roads on Google Maps or other similar apps. Make sure the data is up to date.
If you encounter unexpected flooding, then stop and take a moment to evaluate the situation. Most disaster preparedness experts recommend that drivers never enter water that cannot be crossed on foot or water that reaches the midway point of a vehicle’s tires. Professionals also advise drivers to stay clear of moving water.

2. Drive Slowly in Low Gear

If you can’t avoid driving on a flooded street, then drive smart and stay alert. When entering water, keep your speed at one or two miles per hour, and never cross the water at more than four miles per hour.

Driving in low gear (first or second), keeping your foot on the gas and using the brake to regulate speed can protect your vehicle and provide more control.

Once you exit the water, dry your brakes by slowly and lightly tapping the brake pedal.

3. Drive the Road's Center in Single File

Keep in the center of the road, that being the highest point where the water tends to be shallower. Driving on flooded roads requires patience and concentration. Fall in behind others and drive in single file. Do not pass other vehicles.

Floods can create hazardous road conditions without warning. Following these tips will help you stay safe and arrive at your destination.

3 High-Tech Flood Prevention Strategies

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

3 High-Tech Flood Prevention Methods

Large cities that are located in coastal areas or near rivers and lakes can be devastated by high water from widespread flooding. As a result, some large cities have begun to replace traditional techniques, such as piling up sandbags, with more high-tech solutions. These are three examples of high-tech flood prevention strategies.

1. The Thames Barrier

English engineers designed a movable flood barrier to stop flooding along the Thames River. The barrier is constructed from hollow steel. Water gates installed in the barrier allow ships to pass through. These gates can be closed when water levels begin to rise. The gates, which were constructed between 1974 and 1984, have been closed for flood prevention more than 100 times.

2. Oosterscheldekering

60% of the population in the Netherlands lives below sea level, making high water one of the country's largest concerns. They constructed a network of sluices, locks, dams, storm surge barriers, and dikes, known as Deltawerken, from 1950 to 1997. The Oosterschelde also called the Eastern Scheldt Storm Surge Barrier, is one of their most impressive projects. It features a barrier with movable gates, called the Oosterscheldekering, which reduced the tidal height from 3.40 meters to 3.25 meters.

3. The Hagestein Weir

The Hagestein Weir is one of three movable weirs that was completed along the Rhine River in the Netherlands in about 1960. It has two massive arched gates that are used to generate power and control water on the Lek River. Dams such as the Hagestein Weir have become a model for cities around the world that hope to reduce the need for storm damage restoration by better controlling flooding.

High water can pose a major risk of property damage in cities without adequate flood protection. You can find out more about what is being done in St Anthony MN, to prevent flooding by talking to your local officials.

Effective Flood Removal from St. Anthony Basements

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Basement flooding is not match or SERVPRO. We equipped to handle any storm damage emergency.

St. Anthony Homes Contending with Flood Damage Need Fast Mitigation Solutions

When water begins to flow into your basement after a flood, the results can be devastating for your home. Even when this area of your home is not finished into livable space, it is often used as a storage space for seasonal supplies and keepsakes. It is essential to address flood damage as fast as possible.

Stopping the Intrusion of Water

The first step of managing flood damage in a St. Anthony home is identifying where water enters the household. Extraction and drying measures are not productive or successful if the source of the damage has not been resolved. When water is pushing through cracks and holes in masonry foundations, for example, a temporary solution is the application of hydraulic cement to get restoration underway.

Deep Extraction Options

Several inches of standing water is a considerable amount in the entire basement of your property. When several hundred or thousands of gallons of water need managing, we have fast extraction solutions like gas-powered trash pumps and truck-mount extractors that can eliminate water and small debris at a rapid rate.

Shallow Surface Water Removal 

Submersible pumps and truck mount extractors can only take the standing water down so far before the intake cannot maintain a prime. At this point, we must look to our extraction inventory for smaller and more versatile units to clear the rest of the surface water concerns. Some of the tools and products needed for this level of recovery include:

• Wet vacuums
• Light wands
• Toweling and mopping

Flooding is one of the most rapidly forming and destructive situations that your home is likely to face in its lifetime. Flooded basements must get resolved immediately between the standing water threats and the possibility of contamination and pathogenic hazards. Our SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis team can help with a prompt response when you call (612) 421-2040.

Why Falcon Heights Homes Need Thorough Flood Damage Restoration

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Delivers Effective Flood Restoration in Falcon Heights Eliminating All Issues 

The inconveniences and deterioration of materials from flood damage are the main reasons necessitating quick restoration of a property. It can help if you also thought of any long-term impact that such an incident might have on your property so that you can intervene where possible.

An incident that causes flood damage at your Falcon Heights home can have significant impact months or years after you resolve it. One likely case is when you want to sell the property and signs showing the property was affected by flooding scare away buyers or form their basis of negotiation for lower prices. Professional restoration by SERVPRO can eliminate signs of deterioration associated with severe flooding.

Some long term effects from poorly resolved flooding include:

• Stains near baseboard or ceiling
• Warped frames or other structural supports
• Dry rot or mold, especially subfloors

The effects of flooding can linger for various reasons. Failure to trace and remove all the moisture deposited in the building is one likely reason. Such wetness causes multiple deteriorations in materials like rusting, resin leakage, or mold development. Our SERVPRO technicians identify all traces of hidden moisture using tools like moisture meters and thermal cameras, thus paving the way for removal.

Since many problems caused by floodwaters are hidden beneath covers such as wall panels, floor materials, or ceiling panels, the thought of doing physical demolition to reach the affected areas can challenge you. However, SERVPRO uses controlled demolition approaches that limit the destruction of materials.

Simple steps that facilitate controlled demolition include:

• Drilling weep holes on ceilings to release trapped water
• Making wall flood cuts for water and material removal
• Punching vent holes to facilitate air circulation in cavities

SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis handles all aspects of flood damage that might prove challenging to you, eliminating traces of the incident "Like it never even happened." Call us at (612) 421-2040.

Is a Pack-Out a Reasonable Option During Falcon Heights Flood Damage Recovery?

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO helps Falcon Heights residents protect contents and speed flooding restoration through professional move-outs

Heavy precipitation from rain to ice to snow and high winds batter residences year-round in Falcon Heights, flood damage resulting in extreme circumstances. Many homeowners in this neighborhood of cozy bungalows use basements and attics as storage areas. When water pours inside through a leaking roof from storm activity or basement flooding due to saturated ground, household goods, furnishings, documents, and other personal possessions can be at risk of permanent water damage.

How Does a SERVPRO Managed Pack-Out Help with Flood Restoration of Wet Contents?

When stormwater floods through damaged roofing or seeps into your Falcon Heights basement, anything in the space is at risk of soaking, followed by deterioration and potential secondary damage such as mildew or mold. SERVPRO assessors gauge the damage done to contents and the availability of adequate dry and secure storage space for the wet items on your property. If safe areas are tight in a Falcon Heights home, a pack out to SERVPRO’s production facility is often recommended because:

• Our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) uses listings, barcoding, and digital photos to track all packed-out items for insurance purposes.
• Removing wet contents permits specialized restoration technicians to evaluate items and plan and implement remediation actions.

SERVPRO production facilities offer a wide range of water mitigation and remediation strategies and equipment, including:

• Industrial washers and dryers
• Freeze-drying technology for wet papers, documents, and pictures
• Containment areas for accelerated cleaning, drying, deodorization, and disinfection
• Immersion and ultrasonic tanks to dislodge grime from non-porous items
• Climate-controlled storage 

Does a Pack-Out Help with General and Basement Flooding Cleanup?

The SERVPRO crews at your home can move without impediment throughout your home, allowing faster water clean-up after a pack-out. Contaminated waters need special attention, mainly if the flooding also necessitates cleaning up after a sewer backup. Clearing spaces of contents streamlines the containment and lawful disposal of Category 3 flood water. Wide-open rooms facilitate efficient structural drying, especially when the humidity load of wet household and personal goods dissipates during the pack-out.

Turn to SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis for professional flood and water damage emergency services, including our detailed and secure pack-out process. A single call to (612) 421-2040 gets the ball rolling.

Cleaning and Decontaminating After a Flood in St Anthony Homes

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Take a peek inside our warehouse. This is just some of the equipment at our disposal to restore your flood damaged home.

Fast Recovery and Restoration are Critical to Prevent Greater Tear-Out and Reconstruction of St. Anthony Properties

Flooding is a common occurrence in homes and businesses in lower-lying areas of Ramsey and Hennepin Counties. Because these disasters can spread damaging effects so quickly in a home, it is vital to have professionals respond rapidly to protect what matters most. Common causes of flood damage in residences include:

• Roof leaks
• Intruding flash floodwater
• Storm damage
• Sewage backup

Removing Bulk Materials and Clearing Standing Water 

The bulk materials and debris are among the most threatening aspects of flood damage to homes and businesses in St. Anthony. While standing water is a common occurrence restoration experts come to expect, the degree of structural damage varies to such significant levels that we prioritize any content relocation, debris removal, and bulk material discarding.

Clearing Dry Particles 

It is possible to overcome dry particles that might exist in the outer-lying areas of the flooded zone. HEPA vacuums can provide the final resolution of dust and dry debris. Removing soils in this manner can often prevent more significant harm to the building, as post-flooding effects leave the property vulnerable.

Wet Cleaning for Decontamination Purposes

Wet cleaning can also be possible and often gets used when contaminants impact exposed building materials after a flood. We have powerful cleansers in our inventory like Orange Plus and Industrial Cleaner that can act as a detergent. With some abrasive techniques, the solution gets scrubbed into building materials and cleans up post-flooding effects.

As rapidly as flood damage spreads in a home, it is critical to provide the property with suitable mitigation and surface cleaning strategies. Our SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis is here to help 24/7 at (612) 421-2040.

What Does SERVPRO Use to Clean & Disinfect St. Anthony Homes After a Flood?

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Uses Proprietary Disinfecting Agents That Defeats Flood Damage in St. Anthony

Stormy weather is sweeping across parts of the nation, bringing strong winds, heavy rains, and flooding. It can be a difficult time, with flash flooding arising rapidly and often with little warning. Not only can they sweep up everything in their path, including cars, people, and pets, but it carries along all sorts of nasty debris. When floodwaters rage through buildings, tree limbs, dead animals, bacteria, dirt, and chemicals enter your home.

Disinfecting & Sanitizing Homes with Black Water is Vital

When flood damage hits St. Anthony's homes, the highly contaminated water can is deadly. A crucial part of flood restoration is not only cleaning but disinfecting all impacted surfaces and content. SERVPRO produces many of the products we use, including:

• Cleaning products
• Deodorizing compounds
• Disinfectants

SERVPROXIDE is one of the products we use to restore your home to livable condition. It is a proprietary hospital-grade disinfectant. It is EPA registered and has the lowest toxicity rating the EPA offers. Not only does it do an exceptional job of sanitizing, but it is fragrant-free. We use SERVPROXIDE in many ways, including:

• Eliminates odors via disinfecting and oxidation
• Use directly on surfaces with towels
• Misting or spraying, especially for HVAC systems
• Electrostatic spraying for even application

SERVPROXIDE is a potent sanitizing tool that has EPA approval for claims against things such as E. coli, Rotavirus, staphylococcus, and other bacterial and virus concerns. With the potential for harmful organisms in floodwater, homeowners should never attempt to clean up the premises independently.

For flood damage services that go above and beyond, contact SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis at (612) 421-2040.

What Obstacles Exist with In-Place Carpet Drying of Flooded St. Anthony Homes?

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

Wet carpeting can be quite tricky, call SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis for assistance.

Inspections and evaluations determine the viability of drying flooded carpets in St. Anthony homes. 

Carpeting is a popular flooring option in many of the area’s homes. However, with how fast flooding conditions can develop around residences and spread through the house, these flooring materials can become overwhelmed.

What Drying Obstacles Exist for Flood-Damaged Carpets? 

When flood damage in St. Anthony homes affects the flooring, it is wise to have these conditions addressed as soon as possible. Carpeting can quickly absorb flood damage, allowing for irreparable harm after only a day or two of exposure. Fast action by our SERVPRO team can help, but after some considerations like:

• Potential Contamination – Natural flooding can often introduce category 2 and 3 water damages, requiring the disposal of exposed materials. In these situations, in-place drying is not possible to meet cleanliness and hygienic standards after flood damages.

• Condition of Subflooring – If prolonged damage exists that ultimately damages the subflooring through means like warping or bloating of the materials, drying is not feasible. 

• Cost-Efficiency – Our SERVPRO professionals must consider the cost-effectiveness of drying and moisture removal efforts. In some situations, the time required to restore and dry damaged flooring becomes a costlier option for the customer than removal and replacement.

As threatening as flooding can be, fast action can sometimes prevent the carpet from being removed and replaced at all. Give our SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis team a call as soon as possible at (612) 421-2040.

Where Can Falcon Heights Residents Find Flood Damage Support?

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Heavy Spring Thunderstorms and High Wind Events Cause Basement Flooding SERVPRO Can Resolve

After a long, cold winter, spring’s warmth can be elusive in Falcon Heights. Yet the temperature can soar as the humidity builds, resulting in the perfect conditions for torrential rains, exacerbated by straight line winds, or even tornadoes. If a cold front collides with the warm and moist air, your Falcon Heights home can be in the path of considerable destruction needing professional mitigation and remediation.

How Does Overland Flooding Create Falcon Heights Water Disasters?

Although the Twin Cities straddle the Mississippi and lakes dot the metro area communities, the most common way residences in Falcon Heights sustain flooding is from rainstorms too heavy to drain efficiently through the sanitary sewage systems. If several days of rain occur the ground around your foundation can over saturate, permitting water to seep through and into your basement. Flooding risk increases with each shower. If surface water gathers and pushes in through windows the severity of the water damage grows. SERVPRO arrive fast and offers the following damage remediation:

• Basement Flooding Cleanup
• Water Clean Up
• Water Damage Restoration
• Water Damage Repairs

Rely on the trained and well-equipped crews from SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis if gentle spring showers transform into ugly downpours and flooding. Our team is ready for the quick weather fluctuations and await your call at (612) 421-2040.

How Does Late Snowfall Affect Flood Damage in Falcon Heights?

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s crews mitigate and remediate water and wind destruction

Mixed precipitation extraction is tricky, but SERVPRO has the skills and tools to manage the unique flooding risks posed when snow, ice, and rain combine to damage property. A winters-worth of snowpack on a Falcon Heights roof is heavy, the weight increasing when rain falls. Damage to the roof and additional exterior destruction when fierce winds blow allow water to pour inside.

What Steps Do Professionals Take to Restore a Storm-Damaged Home?

Late winter ice storms in Falcon Heights bring flood damage to some homes. SERVPRO responds by:

• Securing the exterior with boards and tarps
• Assessing the safety risks within 
• Limiting hazards with controls in the workspace:
• Turning off power temporarily
• Containing affected areas to preserve undamaged spaces
• Constructing supports and considering controlled demolition to reach trapped flood waters
• Using commercial grade equipment to remove flooding and dry out moisture:
• Pumps
• Truck-mounted and portable extractors
• Air movers
• Heaters
• Dehumidifiers

Reach out day or night to SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis when flood damage strikes. Call us at (612) 421-2040 for assessment and emergency services.

Seeking Falcon Heights Storm-Related Flood Damage Assistance?

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis is here for your Falcon Hights storm damage.

SERVPRO provides Falcon Heights flood mitigation and remediation

One of Falcon Heights' most famous and attended events is the "Great Minnesota Get Together," the annual State Fair. The Fair runs for twelve days, with the final day always coinciding with Labor Day. Located on permanent grounds adjacent to the University of Minnesota's St.Paul Campus, the Fair's official address is 1265 Snelling Ave North, St. Paul. Still, the footprint of the Fair is in Falcon Heights.

When Was the First Minnesota State Fair?

The first State Fair dates to 1859, but it settled into its long-time grounds in Falcon Heights in 1885. Yearly fairs occurred since 1859, with a few exceptions due to logistics, armed conflicts, or disease:

• 1861 Civil War
• 1862 Civil and Indian Wars
• 1893 Columbian Exposition
• 1945 World War II fuel shortage
• 1946 Polio Outbreak
• 2020 Viral Pandemic

How Have Weather Extremes Impacted the Falcon Heights Fairgrounds?

Because the Fair has many permanent buildings, they must withstand all the severe weather for which Minnesota is famous. Sleet, snow, high winds, and below zero temperatures ravage the grounds in later fall through early spring. When the late summer fair dates arrive, weather challenges accompany the transition to school days and autumn -- temperatures that can exceed 90 degrees, elevated humidity, thunderstorms, and, on occasion, the threat of tornadoes.  

What Levels of Precipitation Is Common During the Run of the Fair?

Falcon Heights can expect three or four days of rain during the 12 day State Fair duration. Depending on the year, the amounts that fall vary widely:

• Wettest Fair -- 1977 at 9.48 inches over the 12 days
• Driest Fair -- 2003 at .02 inches over the 12 days

Has the Falcon Heights Site Experienced a Record-Breaking Storm During Fair Time?

During the State Fair's over 150-year history, the most significant storm event not surprisingly occurred during 1977, August 30 to be precise. Torrential rains commenced at 8:20 pm. Staff University of Minnesota's climate observatory a mile north of the Fairgrounds measured 4.06 inches of rain between 8:20 pm and midnight. Vehicles leaving the Fair on that date encountered flooding, particularly under interstate bridges, that rose to the top of their hoods. Other notable summer storms affecting the Falcon Heights site both during and before the Fair were:

• August 17, 1940 -- high winds blew over tents, including one that was a block long, and damaged equipment on Machinery Hill a week before the Fair opened.
• August 31, 1989 -- golf ball-sized hail pummeled the Fairgrounds in the afternoon.
• August 11, 2007 -- winds estimated over 67 miles per hour hit the Twin Cities area, including Falcon Heights. 
• The Grandstand and many exhibition buildings sustained severe roof damage.
• Dozens of vendor trailers and booths exhibited damage.

Where Can Homeowners Find Reliable Flood Recovery Services?

Falcon Heights residents facing flood damage during the Fair, or any other time, can have confidence in the trained and certified team from SERVPRO. Our workforce is ready to go with:

• Fully-stocked service vehicles on call 24/7
• Experienced project managers to assess your unique circumstances
• Crews poised to provide emergency services:
• Securing damaged exteriors
• Removing muck and water with pumps and truck-mounted extractors
• Tracing water migration and codifying data about moisture levels
• Cleaning and disinfecting
• Using research-based best practices to dry out flood-damaged spaces

Any day of the year, SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis is ready to respond to your storm-related flood damage. Call (612) 421-2040 for a prompt assessment and development of a flooding relief plan for your residence.

Change of Seasons Exposes St. Anthony Residences to the Risk of Storm-Related Flooding

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO takes care of the storm damage from snowmelt and flooding as you enjoy your day at the Village of St Anthony's Community Center

SERVPRO to the Rescue When Severe Winter Weather in St. Anthony Creates Snowmelt Flooding

The Village of St. Anthony looks back on over 100 years of history and change before its municipal incorporation in 1945 and its gradual transformation into an inner-ring suburb of Minneapolis. Approximately four and a half miles northeast from the Mississippi River Falls with which it shares a name, the current St. Anthony is but a part of a much larger tract of land with a complicated past.

What Was the Allure of St. Anthony Falls in the Mid-1800s?

In 1838 a half-mile of riverfront adjacent to St. Anthony Falls was claimed by a Fort Snelling storekeeper named Franklin Steele. Steele was born in Chester County, Pennsylvania, but was encouraged by his brother-in-law and first Governor of Minnesota, Henry Hastings Sibley, to try his luck on the frontier. Steele beat out the Fort Snelling commander Joseph Plympton, staking his claim to the land next to the falls before dawn on the first legal settlement day. Steele's claim controlled half of the water power of St. Anthony Falls. Ten years later, he completed a dam and began using the hydro-power for a sawmill and building his fortune. The town developing on Steele's east side of the mighty Mississippi was called St. Anthony. Steele bought the land upon which Fort Snelling stood in 1858. After acquiring more land in the area, Steele donated four acres of the settlement of St. Anthony to the brand-new University of Minnesota in 1851. The University still stands downriver from the falls and location of Steel's mills, that topography soon to include the flour mills owned by the Washburn, Crosby, and Pillsbury families.

What Happened to the St. Anthony Settlement?

Meanwhile, the town of Minneapolis was growing on the west side of the river. The two municipalities physically connected in 1854 with a suspension bridge above the falls -- the Mississippi's first bridge at any point of its course. Minneapolis absorbed the smaller, east bank community of St. Anthony, with an official annexation by 1872. This area of Minneapolis was home to mill workers who were often immigrants from Eastern Europe. The area became known as Northeast Minneapolis, a designation that stands to this day. Near the river, the old town of St. Anthony still lives on in neighborhood names, blocks filled with boarding houses, dozens of Catholic and Orthodox churches, and breweries -- historical and the new wave of craft endeavors. Working mills and ruins of abandoned or damaged mills decorate the riverbanks.

How Is the Current Suburb of St. Anthony Connected to Old St. Anthony

After the annexation of the river town St. Anthony by Minneapolis, approximately 1,000 acres of agricultural land north and east of the growing city continued to be called St. Anthony. Farms and cemeteries were the primary use of this land into the mid of the 20th century.

• Lewis Stone, a prominent citizen of the original St. Anthony, homesteaded land just to the south of the space occupied by the below-described St. Mary's Russian Orthodox Cathedral Cemetery.
• He determined to donate some of that real estate to provide a potter's field, called St. Anthony Township Cemetery.
• According to a plaque on the location, he desired that the land be "used exclusively for ... the public as a common and free burying ground forever ... "
• Post-WWII homes encroached the potter's field edges, but some graves are still tended, although the last burial was in the 1920s.
• Artist and architect Elizabeth Gleason Thompson crafted a piece called "Generation," commissioned and dedicated in 1979 by the city of St. Anthony, installed on the knoll of the cemetery.
• Mary's Russian Orthodox Cathedral is eight blocks from the Mississippi River amid the oldest part of Northeast Minneapolis.
• Mary's began as an eastern-rite Catholic church, attended by Carpatho-Rusyn immigrants. Most of them came from Becherov, Komlosa, Stebnik, and Regetovka in an area north of Presov in eastern Slovakia.
• Founded in 1887, it located its still manicured and well-administered cemetery two and a half miles away, off of today's Stinson Boulevard, in what is now part of the modern Village of St. Anthony.

Can St. Anthony Homeowners Limit Snowmelt Flooding Risk?

Although the Village of St. Anthony is several miles away from the Mississippi River, plenty of other seasonal flooding risks impact the community. The average annual snowfall in the region is 45.3 inches. We can expect at least 100 days yearly of at least 1 inch of snow cover. Snow is also often mixed with ice, sleet, and rain, increasing the possibility of flood water incursion.

How Does Melted Snow Make Its Way Inside?

Flood damage in St. Anthony due to snowmelt traces the variety of pathways the water found through vulnerable spots in your home. One prominent type of leak is through cracks in the foundation, as water pools adjacent to the house and is held in by banks of unmelted snow. Another significant variant of snowmelt flooding comes topside when ice dams form:

• Poorly sealed and under-insulated attic or top levels permit warm air to escape.
• Snow on roof eaves and in gutters begin a thaw and freeze cycle (warming sign -- those "beautiful" icicles).
• Liquid water seeps inside and drains down walls, sometimes between the interior and exterior surfaces.
• Water flooding through this way can:
• Destroy drywall and plaster.
• Warp wood framing.
• Create a perfect environment for mold growth.
• Can direct a substantial amount of snowmelt to pool in lower levels -- it is not uncommon for an ice dam to damage a dining or living room floor two or three stories below the roof.

What Can SERVPRO Do to Resolve the Flood Damage?

Our workforce holds certifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) focused on rapid water removal and structural drying. Our experience with snowmelt flooding also supports practical recommendations to mitigate or altogether avoid snowmelt flooding in the future:

• Remove snow from your house's perimeter and create drain "ditches" in the snowbanks so water moves away from your foundation.
• Keep gutters and downspouts cleared of leaves and other debris to minimize ice dam development.
• Upgrade insulation and seal roof edges to limit the escape of warm air.

Reach out to SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis when the surrounding snowpack floods your dwelling as the weather warms or rain and sleet adds to the mix. Our service vehicles are ready, and our trained crews are poised to respond after your call to (612) 421-2040.