Protect Your Property From Winter Damage

1/8/2024 (Permalink)

"Winter storms are the third-largest cause of catastrophe losses, behind only hurricanes and tornadoes" -Insurance Information Institute, Inc.

It is a known fact that winter weather trends can be unpredictable throughout the United States. Homeowners in colder climates, including the Northeast, Midwest, and mountain areas should now be weather-proofing their properties, preparing for the potential cold-weather storms ahead. 

Winter storms often bring with them an array of extreme cold, snow, high winds, and icy conditions, which can cause potential outages for days or even immobilize entire regions. Basic communication services, power and heat sources can be knocked out for days until usage is safe again. The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as "deceptive killers", as statistics highlight that most deaths around this period are indirectly related to the weather. 

The past five years have highlighted how towns and cities around the country can be completely shut down by the challenges of winter weather. Snow and ice dams can be large threats to the exterior structures of properties, so it is crucial to take steps to ensure your property is structurally sound. 

Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing

When the weather gets colder, unprotected water pipes can often freeze, leaving you without water (and in some cases without heating, too). Without steps to protect them during the winter months, water pipes can freeze and sometimes burst. Allowing heat to circulate around your home and having sufficient insulation can help ensure the pipes remain at a constant temperature.

If you do identify a frozen pipe, you can thaw it out slowly by using a hot water bottle or towels soaked in warm water. If you have a burst water pipe, turn off the water supply immediately, by turning the valve to stop the flow of water – this will prevent any further damage until you can get it fixed.

Monitor Ice Dams on Roofs

Ice dams are formed by layers of snow and ice building up in the eaves of your roof or guttering. This build-up of snow and ice then backs up and “dams” the natural flow of water off the roof. It is this damming that causes the water to run down the interior wall surfaces.

A constant increase in the amount of snow on a roof can lead to potential structure damage, as well as leaks or water damage in your home. Sturdiness and slope are all variables and can react differently in adverse winter weather conditions. You may seek professional help if you think your roof may need modifications.

After a storm and only when safe to do so, you can use a long-handed rake to remove snow from your roof. The amount of snow that your roof and gutters can take will depend on the type, age, and condition. Ensure that downspouts and gutters are clear in an effort to prevent flooding.

One of the best long-term methods for preventing ice dams is to install a water-repellent membrane in your roof. This is installed under the shingles and acts as an extra barrier, helping to prevent water from seeping into your property.

Winterize the Interior

Making updates to your home, including using silicone foam, caulking any holes, and adding insulation to walls can have a significant impact on your home’s energy bills. Make sure that your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is regularly serviced too, as a failing system can result in wasted energy and wasted money.

Doors and window-sills are also major culprits when it comes to letting heat escape. Caulking and weather-stripping can help to reduce the likelihood of heat loss, as well as the possibility of water seeping into your home due to ice dams.

You may want to consider installing a generator for emergency outages to help when your main power sources are disturbed. This will allow you to connect lights, refrigerators, and electrical heating devices and stay warm and safe in your home.

Inspect the Exterior of Your Home and Clear any Leaves and Branches

Make sure you clear any leaves and branches from your drain pipes before the winter season arrives. Safely cut away any branches that are hanging over your house and repair any damage to your gutters and roof. These issues could pose a risk to structures, people, and vehicles. Trimming trees can be dangerous in icy weather though, so try and get this done before the cold winter period begins.

Clear Pathways and Property Entrances

After a storm, it’s vital that you remove snow and ice from walkways and parking lots if you are a business owner. Use rock salt or grit to avoid any slips or trips. Removing snow and treating icy surfaces with a safe snow melting product will allow customers safe access to your business.

By following these few basic precautions, you can ensure that the interior and exterior of your home or business is safe this winter. Remember that snow and unpredictable weather patterns can potentially threaten your property’s structure, so be sure to seek professional advice if there are signs of damage.

Central Oregon and Severe Weather - Tips to Keep Your Biggest Asset Safe

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

They say that if you don’t like the weather in Central Oregon, wait 15 minutes. And while our weather doesn’t change that often, it can be unpredictable and intense. This year is no different. 

We've seen it all, from heavy rains and flooding to hail and thunderstorms, and it is only July. Despite our dry climate, we are highly prone to mold in Central Oregon homes and businesses. Mold can be dangerous, so it is essential to familiarize yourself with how water often makes its way into our beloved homes so you can prevent it from entering yours.

1. Perimeter Drain - Does your home have proper channels around its perimeter for water drainage? These channels are critical for diverting water away from your home’s foundation. These are located underground, and all homes today are built with them. That said, they can become clogged with dirt, roots, and underground debris, leading to flooding in your crawlspace. Sometimes you can see signs of perimeter drain issues—for example, water pooling in your yard or against your home.
2. Clogged Gutters - Fall leaves and other debris not cleared from gutters can lead to water flooding the home. Here’s how, during a heavy downpour, the gutters overflow with water; this can cause a trench to form next to your home, putting pressure on your foundation and walls. Clogged gutters can also result in roof damage, siding damage, erosion, and ice dams in the winter. 
3. House Wrap Moisture - Most homes built today are wrapped to protect them from various problems by preventing the air and water from getting inside your home. Some home wraps are less permeable to moisture vapor, which can lead to mold, mildew, and rot. This can trap water against your home in the event of a leak or flood. 
4. Moldy Crawlspace. Crawl space and basement mold are two of the most common areas in a home with mold growth. And at SERVPRO of Bend and SERVPRO of North Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson Counties, we see a lot of it in our local homes. Mold is everywhere and can hitch a ride into your home from unsuspecting pets and humans. But it can also enter through windows and your HVAC. Mold can enter your crawl space if it is not vented, sealed, or if a moisture barrier isn’t present. Mold needs moisture to thrive. As long as there aren’t any water issues in your home, mold is benign. But in the face of a storm or after water damage, trapped water can lead to mold growing and spreading. We recommend that homeowners have their crawl space inspected annually. Doing so will allow you to first and foremost know if you have mold. But it will also let you know if any issues could attract mold growth, such as leaking pipes, cracks, and decayed wooden joists and beams. 

Your home is your most significant investment. Treat it as such by taking the preventative measures mentioned above. If you identify issues that need to be addressed, the experts at SERVPRO are ready and willing to help, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Microbursts - The Storms You Never Expected Can Sometimes Cause the Most Damage

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

As we retreat from winter’s grip, the days grow longer, hinting at the warmer weather to come. And while snow can happen almost any time of the year in Central Oregon, most of us eagerly anticipate the change of season and the beauty that comes with it. But as winter turns to spring, the warmer gives way to a phenomenon called a microburst. 

According to the National Weather Service, a microburst is a “localized column of sinking air within a thunderstorm.” Do you recall the pounding hail storm we had a few years ago that seemingly came out of nowhere and destroyed hemp crops in Tumalo? That was a microburst, and they can be as damaging, life-threatening, and dangerous as a tornado. 

With wind speeds up to 100+ miles per hour, a microburst can cause significant damage to anything in its path, such as homes, commercial buildings, and crops. The damage can be pretty shocking when these storms come out of nowhere. We are used to advanced warnings of snowstorms and rain. But microbursts often appear with minimal warning, catching unsuspecting property owners off guard. The window left open in the house suddenly becomes the source of significant water damage to the home or commercial space. 

At SERVPRO of Bend, we are no stranger to microbursts or other types of storm damage. We understand the complexity and urgency of addressing storm damage and are ready to respond immediately - 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our team includes highly trained, and certified technicians and carpenters prepared to repair whatever property damage you experience. And while we are here for you, whenever or wherever you need us, we wanted to provide some tips for helping protect your property from storm damage this spring and summer. 

1. Prune trees. A lot of damage from storms comes from fallen trees and broken branches. Trim trees that are close to the home. Look for clustered or touching branches and trim branches to create stability in weight distribution. Hire an arborist to get the job done right. Double stake any newly planted trees to protect against getting uprooted in a storm. 
2. Inspect the roof for loose shingles and empty gutters of leaves, and any yard debris. We recommend hiring a professional for any repairs needed.
3. Check the seal around windows for cracks and repair them to prevent water from entering the home.
4. Close doors. In the event of a microburst, close all the doors to the home or business - including interior doors. Doing so will help prevent pressure build-up inside the structure, which could cause significant destruction. 
5. Inspect garage. Unless your garage has windows, you should see little light around the garage door. Wheels should fit securely in the roller tracks. The more opportunities for air to enter the structure, the greater the chance for the wind to lift off the roof.
6. Inspect siding. Changing temperatures can cause the siding to crack pull away from the foundation or gap. If gaps or cracks are identified, seal them. If damage is significant enough, replace the siding. 
7. Inspect outbuildings. If your home or commercial space has any outbuildings, ensure they are secured to the ground to prevent them from becoming projectiles. 
8. Secure lawn furniture, grills, and other items. Bring furniture cushions indoors to prevent them from becoming airborne if the weather service predicts significant thunderstorms. 

Microbursts and other damaging storms are a reality that you should account for. While your property can often be replaced, it is an asset most of us don’t want to risk losing. Take proactive steps now to mitigate your risk of significant damage in the event of a severe storm.

If you experience storm damage in Bend, Redmond, or anywhere in Deschutes, Jefferson, or Crook County, SERVPRO is here to help, whenever or wherever you need us. 

SERVPRO of Bend Storm Readiness

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Bend, we get a lot of questions regarding how SERVPRO gets information regarding storms, especially when there is a storm brewing in a region that we service. One huge advantage to all  SERVPRO franchises like SERVPRO of Bend is that SERVPRO HQ employs our very own meteorologist who continues to monitor the weather patterns nationally. Locally, we strive to stay ahead of the curve by observing weekly and monthly local weather patterns and gearing up to accommodate any size storm that may come our way.

Central Oregon weather patterns are finicky, and it is not uncommon during March, April, and May to have sunny skies one hour and then a torrential hailstorm the next. Regardless of what is coming our way, SERVPRO of Bend is ready to deal with what mother nature brings our way. SERVPRO can maximize production volume during a storm event because of our access to many other franchises who are ready to be dispatched within hours.

If you have questions regarding SERVPRO’s Storm team and how we can help during any size disaster, feel free to give us a call at 541-385-7044.

The DNA of an Ice Dam - How to Safely Prevent and Remove Ice Dams

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Does or did your house recently feature a beautiful display of icicles? Those icicles might be an indicator of a growing problem that any cautious homeowner should be aware of. You could have an ice dam, which is common to see in the Bend OR area–where we regularly experience snowy and freezing conditions from winter storms. 

An ice dam is caused by snow melting and refreezing on your roof, building into a layer of ice that becomes exactly what the term describes: an actual dam that traps water. This can be dangerous for your home and anyone living in it since a typical ice dam can weigh thousands of pounds. This weight can compromise the structure of your roof, which in turn can cause all kinds of damage to your house.

How to Prevent Ice Dams

The best way to deal with ice dams is to prevent them. There are several ways to keep ice from building up on your roof. Essentially, you want to keep your attic and your roof cold.

Clear off excess snow

Use a rake to clear snow off your roof after a winter storm. Specialized roof rakes usually come with an extension to make this process safe and easy. Remove the snow while it’s soft, and be sure to clear the eaves of any ice that might have already accumulated.

Add insulation

Ice dams form when hot air from your house is transferred to the roof. By adding insulation to your attic, you can prevent that heat transfer and help keep warm air inside your home where it’s more useful and energy-efficient. 

Seal off attic airflow leaks

Make sure your house isn’t leaking warm air through gaps and vents into the attic. Crawl up into your attic and pull back insulation. Check vents that allow air in from the outside and make sure they’re open. Intake vents are usually located on the underside of your roof and can help keep your roof from getting too warm.

How to Remove an Ice Dam

Once an ice dam has formed on your roof, it’s best to safely remove it to prevent damage to your house and injury to you or your family. Ice dams can wreak significant havoc on a building, tearing off gutters, damaging shingles, and potentially causing leaks that will only lead to more problems, like mold and mildew.

Can I remove an ice dam myself?

Breaking up an ice dam and removing it from your roof can be dangerous, not to mention difficult if you lack the proper tools. If you need to get on your roof, we recommend hiring a roofing company to help. But if you decide to get on your roof, or anywhere six feet up or higher, we recommend that you are tethered to protect your safety. 

After the ice dam is removed, our trained experts can recommend how best to repair your home, so it is like the ice dam never even happened. 

If you’ve noticed a rim of ice forming on your roof, have a roofing company take care of it as soon as possible! If you have any questions about repairing the damage caused by ice dams or other winter storm damage, or you’d like one of our professionals to take care of it for you, call us at 541-385-7044. 

Bend Oregon Weather Advisory Due to High Winds

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

A weather alert for Central Oregon was issued, warning that winds coming from the south will be coming towards the area at 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. The weather alert warned that the speed of these wind gusts could blow around unsecured objects, tree limbs and possibly cause some power outages.

SERVPRO of Bend was called out to a local neighborhood where high winds had blown some roof tiles off of a house. The high winds wreaked havoc in the area. The residential street, where the home was located had various obstacles such as trash cans roof tiles and tree limbs littering the street. 

SERVPRO of Bend Technicians found that about a third of the tiles on the main apex of the roof had blown off. Judging from the damage, it appeared that this part of the roof took the brunt of the high wind gusts. The homeowner said she heard a quick wind burst that shook her house. As the gusts went over the house, she heard a lot of debris hitting her car and the adjoining property. Upon going outside, she saw that that the debris were roof tiles that had blown off her house. 

SERVPRO of Bend Technicians climbed on the roof, using the proper retractable fall arrest protection and were able to tarp the roof to protect the inside from further damage.

If you have damage due to high winds or storm, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Bend at (541) 385-7044.

Know The Storm Patterns In Your Area

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Storm patterns in the United States vary based on one's geographical location. It is uncommon to have a Hurricane hit off the coast of California, Oregon, or Washington Just as it is uncommon to have snowfall on the coast of Florida, Georgia, or Mississippi.

With more than 1,700 franchises in the United States, there are many different storm patterns that that SERVPRO franchises are presented with. For instance, a temperature considered low in Orange County Florida may hover around 50 F or 10 C. In Bend Oregon, a cold temperature would be considered 15 F or -9.4 C. 

At SERVPRO of Bend, we are familiar with the average weather patterns in our area, but that doesn't exclude us from constantly monitoring the atmospheric changes. We do this to ensure that we're ready for most changes that may result in a storm event. We do this so we can be ready before drastic weather events occur. 

If you have any further questions about Storm events and how SERVPRO of Bend can help, feel free to give us a call at (541) 385-7044.

Protecting Your Home and Belongings During a Storm

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

The planet appears to be holding nothing back as storms rage across the United States. From hurricanes in the east, heavy rainfall and flooding in the southern plains, tornadoes in the midwest, and hail storms and wildfires in the west, the need to protect and insure your property is at an all-time high. And we haven’t even gotten to winter yet! Here are some tips to help protect your home from severe weather.

1. Know what your insurance covers. Check your insurance policy to see if your plan covers damage caused by a natural disaster. Damage caused by hurricanes, tornadoes, or flooding is typically not covered in a home policy and must be purchased separately. 
2. Make a list or videotape your possessions. Go through your home and make a list or videotape the items in it. Keep this in a safe place outside of your home, such as a safe deposit box. If something happens that requires you to file a claim, this documentation will prove very helpful in supporting your claim.
3. Seal your windows and doors. Not only does it help reduce your energy costs, but sealing your windows and doors will also help protect your home against water and wind damage.
4. Assess your roof. A roof is critical to keeping your home safe during a storm. Hire someone to check the structural integrity of your roof. Apply sealant around your pipes and chimney to ensure water doesn’t enter your home. 
5. Clear gutters and storm drains. Fall is coming, and with it, lots of fallen leaves. Be sure to clear your gutters to allow water to drain without obstruction. If your gutters are clogged, water can leak into your foundation and create damage to your home. In the winter, clogged gutters can cause ice dam buildup.
6. Trim branches away from your roof. Tree branches can damage your roof, break windows and scrape the side of your home. Ideally, no branches should touch your home. Trim any branches that hang over your roofline regularly. Hire a professional to remove or trim branches close to your home or do it yourself (if you can safely). 
7. Install a carbon monoxide detector. Oregon law requires that all homes either sold or rented have a working carbon monoxide detector installed. 

Intense Thunderstorms Bring Hail and Rain Followed by Record Heat

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Central Oregon is prone to Thunderstorms but Wednesday brought hail that piled up as if it were a winter day in Bend, OR. 

 The slow moving storm began dumping up to an hour of torrential rain and hail that flooded streets, stripped leaves off trees and flattened bushes while dropping dime- to quarter-sized hail and sending small rivers of bark mulch or dirt flowing from yards.

The storm did, however, provide a temporary respite from recent high temperatures that is due to soar into potentially record-breaking over-100 temperatures for several days, starting this weekend and continuing through July 1st.

Residents of Central Oregon should be "Heat Aware," limiting outdoor activities. Some things to consider are drinking plenty of fluids, staying in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the direct sunlight, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

Protect your Property from Hailstorms

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Although not as common in Central Oregon as other parts of the country, hailstorms, especially those that come without warning, can cause thousands of dollars of damage to your home, property and vehicle. Even with insurance, no one wants to file a claim and go through the hassle of having to make repairs to their car or roof. What, then, should you do?

The easiest and best advice when it comes to hailstorms is an obvious one: keep an eye on the weather report. As mentioned above, this may not always help you, though even a small mention of "possible hail" should be enough for you to take note of what is outside your home and the condition of your roof and any other structures on your property. When it comes to your vehicle, the best way to keep it safe is unsurprisingly to keep it under a carport or in your garage. If this is not a possibility, you will have to go the route of protecting your vehicle in other ways which could range from parking it below thick tree cover, layering blankets and car mats across the top (plywood can be added for increased protection), or purchasing a specialized "hail cover" online. Anything that can dampen the impact will be helpful, especially when the hail reaches sizes of one inch in diameter or more.

As for your home or other structures on your property, making sure your roofs are in good shape is the only way to be sure you are protected. As you probably know, roofs can be made with a variety of materials from wood shingles to asphalt or tile. Although this is not a top of mind concern in Central Oregon, looking for materials with a "class 4" rating can save you a lot of trouble down the road if a large storm does appear, and have the added benefit of being longer-lasting under normal circumstances. Always make sure to not wait until your roof has any kind of damage-- a somewhat costly roof repair will always pale in comparison to having a collapse or gaps which could allow hail and anything else to fall on your appliances and furniture. 

Your landscaping may suffer to some degree though the evergreen trees of our area are very resilient when it comes to bad weather and impacts from hail. If you have a non-greenhouse flower bed or garden you can similarly purchase a small pop up canopy or try to construct something on your own that will act as a shield when the time comes. Though flowers can be replanted-- not so much your car. Keep these things in mind and that one freak hailstorm every few years will be of no worry to you! 

What to Do if You Find Mold Caused by a Roof Leak

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Roof leaks can cause water to slowly drip into your house. The most obvious problem with this is the possibility of water damage to the interior of your home. What many people don't realize is that this water damage can create the perfect environment for mold growth.

If the mold growth isn't too extensive, you can remove it yourself. You just want to make sure that you take all of the necessary steps to do it safely and effectively.

Step 1: Identify the Mold

Once you have the cause of the leak repaired to prevent any further damage, you should start investigating the affected areas for any signs of mold growth. These can often include a discoloration of the wall or ceiling, a musty aroma, or visible mold that is usually green, black, or brown.

In addition to physically seeing the mold, you can also monitor your health. Mold can cause people to have trouble breathing, fever, sore throat, headaches, chronic fatigue and more.

Step 2: Determine the Extent of the Mold Growth

Sometimes mold might not look bad on the surface, but oftentimes mold can also get in the drywall, insulation, floorboards, etc. You'll want to make sure you do a proper inspection of the affected area to know the whole extent of the mold growth.

Step 3: Remove the Mold

Mold can produce toxins, so if you plan to remove it yourself you should take the proper safety precautions. Firstly, make sure that you have personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and a face mask. You should also wear long sleeve clothing to make sure your body is covered. 

Once you have all of your PPE on, you can use a fungicide on the affected area and scrape the mold from the surface it's on. Once you have removed as much as you can, let the area dry. You should check back on in a couple weeks to make sure that the mold hasn't grown back.

Contact Information:

If you have any questions about water or mold damage in your business or home, please do not hesitate to call the SERVPRO of Bend office at 541-385-7044.

How to Recognize an Ice Dam

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage from ice dams is one of the most prevalent problems that we hear about in the winter. Ice dams form when water pools against overhanging icicles on the eaves of your roof. Over time, this water can seep into your roof and cause water damage to your walls and ceiling.

How to Recognize an Ice Dam

The first step in avoiding water damage from ice dams is being able to spot them. Finding an ice dam is not as hard as you may think. The first thing that you should look for is icicles hanging from the eaves of your roof. Even if no visible icicles are present, you should take a closer look and check if there is a layer of ice at the base of your roof. If you don't see either of these, then you may be in the clear. 

Other signs that you can look for include:

• If your gutters are blocked/working properly.
• If there are water stains on your walls and ceilings.

If you notice either of these, it may be worth having a professional come in to investigate to prevent any further damages.

If you would like to learn more about preventing ice dams, please see our 3 Tips for Preventing Ice Dams article.

Contact Information:

If you have any questions about water damage from ice dams, please do not hesitate to call the SERVPRO of Bend office at 541-385-7044.

How to Safely Remove Snow from Your Roof

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Before removing snow from your roof, you'll want to be sure that you even have a valid reason to do so. If you're not sure how to determine this, please see our Should I Remove Snow From My Roof? article.

Before getting into the correct way of removing snow from your roof, here are a few things that you should NOT do to remove snow from your roof.

1. If you don't feel fully comfortable removing large amounts of snow yourself, you should not attempt to do so.
2. Do not use sharp tools. There are more effective ways to remove the snow, and this can actually damage your roof.
3. This may seem obvious, but is worth noting: do not use a flame to melt the snow from your roof. This is a fire hazard.

Tips for Safely Removing Snow from Your Roof

1. Start from the edge of your roof and work your way up from there.
2. Use plastic snow removal tools designed for roofs. Avoid using metal tools, as these can cause damage to your roof.
3. Try to avoid creating buildups of snow near any emergency exits, downspouts and ventilation openings.
4. Once again, if you don't feel confident that you can safely remove the snow yourself, you should contact a professional to remove the snow for you. A roofing professional will have the necessary training and equipment to remove the snow efficiently and safely.

Contact Information:

We provide water damage restoration for roofs and home interior, no matter the size of the damage. If you have any questions about water damage, please do not hesitate to call the SERVPRO of Bend office at 541-385-7044. We service all of Central Oregon, including Bend, Redmond, Sisters, Sunriver, Madras, La Pine, Prineville and all of the surrounding areas.

Should I Remove Snow From My Roof?

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

Typically, you shouldn't remove snow from your roof unless it's completely necessary. This is usually in two scenarios:

1. You think that your roof may collapse from the weight of the snow.
2. You have a recurring problem with ice dams and are attempting to prevent them from forming. 

If you have to remove snow from your roof for one of these reasons, you'll want to make sure that you take the necessary precautions to do it safely and correctly.

When is Your Roof at Risk of Collapsing?

The majority of roof collapses from snow occur on flat roofs. This is due to the fact that snow has nowhere to go on a flat surface, so it continues to accumulate. Over time, this can lead to an exceedingly heavy weight of snow. This is when your roof can possibly be at risk of collapsing. If your roof has a small pitch (i.e sloped, but still relatively flat) you should also be cautious about snow buildup.

How to Test if There’s Too Much Snow

Fortunately, you don’t need to climb out on your roof with a ruler to measure the amount of snow. A simple test that you can do is try to open every door and window in your house. If they all open easily, then you’re likely good. However, if there’s any resistance then this could be an indicator that there’s an excessive amount of snow compressing the opening. This isn’t a sure sign that your roof is at risk for collapsing, but it is a sign that you should investigate the situation further.

When is it Necessary to Remove Snow to Prevent Ice Dams?

In most cases, you have a much higher risk of experiencing ice dams than roof collapses. There doesn’t always have to be a lot of snow for ice dams to form on your roof. A general rule of thumb is to remove snow from your roof if it exceeds six inches. You should never use a shovel to remove snow because it can be very dangerous. If you feel that you must remove the snow yourself, use a roof rake and get as much snow off the overhangs of your roof as you can.

Contact Information:

We provide water damage restoration for roofs and home interior, no matter the size of the damage. If you have any questions about water damage, please do not hesitate to call the SERVPRO of Bend office at 541-385-7044. We service all of Central Oregon, including Bend, Redmond, Sisters, Sunriver, Madras, La Pine, Prineville and all of the surrounding areas.

How to Clean Your Gutter

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning out gutters is usually not at the top of the list of priorities for most homeowners. Many people do not realize that clogged gutters can lead to a multitude of problems, including property foundation damage, wood damage, landscape damage and ice dams. It is recommended that you clean your gutters at least twice per year. 

Here are a few steps you can do to ensure that your gutters are clean and functional: 

1.) Start cleaning at the downspout of the gutter.

If your gutter has horizontal extension pipes, you can remove them to clean the downspout. You can check if the downspout is flowing by shooting water from a hose down it. If the water isn't coming out on the other side then there is likely some debris blocking the path of the downspout.

2.) Remove any debris trapped in the gutter (i.e leaves, sticks, etc.) using your hands or a trowel. 

Use your hands to scoop out any debris trapped in your gutter. If you don't want to use your hands, you can also use a gardening trowel to scoop out the debris.

3.) Flush the gutter with a hose. You can also use a gutter-cleaning attachment on the hose if the water doesn't drain.

A common method to clean the downspout of a gutter is to use a hose to flush out any debris that may be blocking the gutter. If this does not work, you can purchase tools (such as a plumber's snake) into the gutter and turn the crank to loosen up the blockage of debris.

Contact Information:

If you have any questions about inspecting or cleaning your gutter, please do not hesitate to call the SERVPRO of Bend office at 541-385-7044.

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Sources:
Angie's List
Lowe's

Gov. Brown declares 10-county winter storm emergency, including Deschutes County

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Gov. Kate Brown on Thursday declared a state of emergency in 10 Oregon counties, including Deschutes, due to severe winter storm conditions.

The counties included are: Coos, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Linn, and Marion.

The declaration comes at the request of local officials and is based on the recommendations of the Oregon Office of Emergency Management.

"As our state and local authorities continue to work hard to clear roads, reconnect power and ensure the safety of the community, this declaration will provide additional resources and the potential for federal highway system funds in the future," Brown said.

“I urge all Oregonians to follow the recommendations of local authorities, and avoid travel while ODOT crews work on the roads and restore core services."

The governor's declaration directs OEM to coordinate the deployment of the Oregon Department of Transportation, Oregon State Police and the Oregon National Guard to support local communities as needed.

source: KTVZ 21

Redmond Oregon Airport flights canceled until Wednesday

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Redmond Municipal Airport announced Tuesday that its reopening has been pushed back to Wednesday morning after heavy snowfall damaged a navigational aid system.

RDM officials had intended to reopen at noon Tuesday after a day-long closure. But airport officials said the Instrument Landing System (ILS), equipment owned and operated by the Federal Aviation Administration "is currently inoperable due to snow damage."

The ILS allows pilots to land aircraft in weather conditions that are not under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). Current winter storms require use of the ILS for landing at RDM.

The FAA plans to have the ILS in operation by 9 a.m. Wednesday -- weather permitting.

While there are no arriving or departing flights, RDM’s commercial air carrier passenger terminal is open. 

The airport recommended passengers contact their air carrier directly for flight information.

source: News Channel 21

Extreme Cold Weather Spreads East

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Midwesterners trudged ahead Thursday into a familiar, grim reality: temperatures well below zero, schools and businesses closed, stern warnings to wear extra layers or, better yet, just stay indoors.

The polar vortex that arrived earlier this week has for days disrupted life across an entire region. Deaths and injuries were reported. Decades-old records fell. And, for one more day, even stepping outside remained a painful, risky experience.

But the forecast finally suggested relief ahead. By Thursday night, temperatures across much of the Midwest were expected to poke above zero. By the end of the weekend, meteorologists predicted as much as a 70- or 80-degree swing, with balmy-for-February readings in the 40s or 50s and rain instead of snow.

Still, risks remained. A band of snow complicated travel on Thursday, and in the Northeast, officials warned of their own cold wave, with heavy snow in some places and subzero wind chills in others.

source: New York Times

Storm Watch for California

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA), A deep Pacific trough off the West Coast will remain in place over the next few days with a frontal boundary approaching southern California Monday night, and additional shortwave impulses arriving through Tuesday.

The result will be widespread rain with some localized flooding issues possible for the coastal mountain ranges.  Heavy snow is likely for the
Sierra Nevada and Siskiyou mountains of California, with amounts possibly exceeding a foot at the highest elevations.

This is especially critical for those areas such as Woolsey, who in the past year have suffered from wildfires. The excessive amount of precipitation added to an already loose soil base has already caused some mud slides on the Pacific Coast Highway. 

source: NOAA.org

2018 Had Many Destructive and Costly Weather Events

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

2018 has been another year of destructive and costly weather events. Here are some of the most costly for 2018:

Hurricane Florence:

Moody’s Analytics estimated on Sept. 21 that Hurricane Florence economic cost will fall between $38 billion and $50 billion. This same time last year, the country was reeling after Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria together cost the U.S. $270.3 billion.

source: Wall Street Journal

California Wildfires:

California’s fire agency has now exhausted its annual budget for 2018 of $442.8 million and now needs an additional $234 million to continue combatting the California fires, according to the Associated Press.

Carr Fire had cost more than $25 million.

Ferguson Fire had suppression costs soar above $64 million.

Mendocino Complex and Carr, victims have filed more than 10,000 claims so far. The total amount of those claims so far exceeds $845 million.

In 2017, the state received more than 45,000 claims totaling more than $11.8 billion. To fight all the 2017 California fires, which were less costly than the 2018 California wildfires, the state fire agency ended up spending well above the initially approved budget of $427 million, with total spending for 2017 reaching $773 million.

source: Fortune Magazine

Some Preventative Ideas for Your Central Oregon Home During Winter

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Winter in Central Oregon can be fun, but it's also a time to be extra careful both in and out of the house. Frigid temperatures can make water freeze and expand, causing pipes to burst. Ice buildup on the roof, if unnoticed, can damage both the roof and gutters. Slick black ice between the house and your car can turn that short walk into a hazard.

Here are a few things you can use to prevent damage to your home during the winter months: 

1. Heat Tape

Homeowners often shut off the water supply to outside spigots in late fall, but some indoor pipes—such as those located in unheated basements, crawl spaces, or even under sinks in poorly insulated houses—can still be at risk of freezing.

2. Radiant Heat Mats

Icy driveways and sidewalks lead to wintertime falls—and visits to the emergency room. Fortunately, safety doesn't have to involve spreading toxic chemicals or plant-killing salt on paved surfaces. Approved electric radiant heat mats can be used outdoors not only to save time shoveling, but also to create safer environments with less ice, fewer slips and falls, and less need to salt and condition the surface.

3. Roof and Gutter De-Icing Cables

An accumulation of snow on the roof can pose a risk if it begins to melt and then refreezes, resulting in heavy ice buildup along the edge of the roof and in the gutter. These accumulations, known as ice dams, can damage roof shingles and lead to leaks, and cause the gutter to tear away from the house.

4. Frost-Free Sillcocks

Exterior faucets are notorious for freezing and breaking in winter. One solution is to turn off the water supply to the faucets and bleed the lines so they can’t freeze. A better solution would be to replace your standard outdoor faucets with frost-free sillcocks. In a frost-free sillcock, unlike a standard exterior faucet, the valve that shuts off the water sits at the end of a long pipe so it's situated inside your house.

Hurricane Chris Poses No Direct Threat to U.S.

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

According to the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Chris formed late Tuesday afternoon off the U.S. East Coast, becoming the second hurricane of the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season. 

Other than churning up some rough seas along the coast, Chris poses no direct threat to the USA as it races out to sea. It could clip Newfoundland, Canada, later in the week. 

As of 5 p.m. EDT, Chris had winds of 85 mph, making it a Category 1 hurricane. The center of Chris was 205 miles east-southeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, and was moving to the northeast at 10 mph.

Central Oregon snow brings crashes; DCSO patrol car in one

2/27/2018 (Permalink)

BEND, Ore. - A few to several inches of snow fell over much of Central Oregon again Saturday morning, leading to several slide-offs and crashes around the region, none with serious injuries reported -- including a collision east of Bend that damaged a Deschutes County sheriff's patrol car.

In a Facebook post, sheriff's office Sgt. William Bailey said the deputy at the wheel was slowly approaching the stop sign on Deschutes Market Road at Hamehook Road "but was unable to stop on the icy roadway and slid into the path of another vehicle." The deputy was not identified.

"We are relieved to report that no one was injured in the crash," Bailey wrote, adding, "Even with regular driving training, accidents can happen. Even driving extremely slow, accidents can happen. If you have to go out, drive carefully!"

Bend-area observers reported 2-4 or more inches of new snow by Saturday morning, while Sisters and Redmond had about two inches, Prineville over an inch and Madras about a half-inch 

The National Weather Service reduced Sunday's expected snow amounts a bit, but still predicts over a foot in the Cascades and 2-5 more inches possible in the Bend area by Sunday night, though a mix of rain and snow is predicted during the daytime as temperatures climb to near 40 degrees.  Below-normal temperatures and a chance of snow showers linger in the area through the coming week.

Weather, climate threats top list of 2018 Global Risks Report

2/6/2018 (Permalink)

Weather and climate threats are among the top risks that will have the biggest global impact in the next 10 years, according to a report by the World Economic Forum.

The report is an assessment by 1,000 experts and decision-makers on the likelihood and impact of global risks over a 10-year period.

Following a devastating year for weather and natural disasters in 2017, the Global Risk Report highlighted the environment as an area of particular concern this year.

Behind weapons of mass destruction in the top spot are extreme weather events, natural disasters, failure of climate change mitigation and adaptation and water crises.

"Extreme weather events have ranked in the top two future risks since 2014. It should be alarming to the general public," AccuWeather Meteorologist Brett Anderson said.

Meanwhile, extreme weather events and natural disasters claimed spots one and two for risks most likely to occur in the next 10 years.

Hurricane Maria cripples Dominica as it churns toward Puerto Rico

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane Maria

Hurricane Maria has pounded Dominica with "widespread devastation" as it barrels toward St. Croix and threatens catastrophic damage to Puerto Rico.

Hurling winds of 160 mph (257 kph), Maria shredded the Dominica Prime Minister's house overnight and left much of the island -- population 73,000 -- in ruins.

"Initial reports are of widespread devastation," Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit posted on Facebook early Tuesday.

"So far we have lost all what money can buy and replace. My greatest fear for the morning is ... news of serious physical injury and possible deaths as a result of likely landslides triggered by persistent rains."

A few hours earlier, the Prime Minister posted, "My roof is gone. I am at the complete mercy of the hurricane. House is flooding."

Maria is now the strongest hurricane on record to make landfall in Dominica, a former French and British colony with an economy heavily dependent on tourism and agriculture.

Now, it's taking aim on Puerto Rico and Islands already crippled by Hurricane Irma.

'Don't go out under any circumstances'

As of 11 a.m. ET Tuesday, Maria was centered about 150 miles (240 kilometers) southeast of St. Croix and was headed west-northwest at 10 mph.

While Maria moves closer to St. Croix, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, preparations against life-threatening storm surge, flooding and destructive winds "should be rushed to completion,' the National Hurricane Center said.

A hurricane warning is in effect Tuesday for Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, the US and British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Culebra, and Vieques.

"A dangerous storm surge accompanied by large and destructive waves will raise water levels by as much as 7 to 11 feet above normal tide levels in the hurricane warning area near where the center of Maria moves across the Leeward Islands and the British Virgin Islands," the hurricane center said.

Guadeloupe's regional government tweeted a stern warning to residents Tuesday: "Don't go out under any circumstances."

Puerto Rico says Maria 'will be catastrophic'

After crossing St. Croix, Maria will head toward the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico on Tuesday night and Wednesday as "an extremely dangerous Category 4 or 5 hurricane," the National Hurricane Center said.

That would make Maria the first Category 4 or 5 hurricane to make landfall in Puerto Rico in 85 years.

Hurricane Harvey

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane Harvey was the first major hurricane to make landfall in the United States since Wilma in 2005, ending a record 12-year drought in which no major hurricanes made landfall in the country. In a four-day period, many areas received more than 40 inches (1,000 mm) of rain as the system meandered over eastern Texas and adjacent waters, causing catastrophic flooding. With peak accumulations of 51.88 in (1,318 mm), Harvey is the wettest tropical cyclone on record in the contiguous United States. The resulting floods inundated hundreds of thousands of homes, displaced more than 30,000 people, and prompted more than 17,000 rescues.

The eighth named storm, third hurricane, and the first major hurricane of the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season, Harvey developed from a tropical wave to the east of the Lesser Antilles, reaching tropical storm status on August 17. The storm crossed through the Windward Islands on the following day, passing just south of Barbados and later near Saint Vincent. Upon entering the Caribbean Sea, Harvey began to weaken due to moderate wind shear and degenerated into a tropical wave north of Colombia early on August 19. The remnants were monitored for regeneration as it continued west-northwestward across the Caribbean and the Yucatán Peninsula, before redeveloping over the Bay of Campeche on August 23. Harvey then began to rapidly intensify on August 24, regaining tropical storm status and becoming a hurricane later that day. While the storm moved generally northwest, Harvey's intensification phase stalled slightly overnight from August 24–25; however, Harvey soon resumed strengthening and quickly became a major hurricane and attained Category 4 intensity later that day. Hours later, Harvey made landfall near Rockport, Texas, at peak intensity.

Harvey caused at least 71 confirmed deaths;] Economic losses are preliminarily estimated at between $70 to $200 billion,]with a large portion of the losses sustained by uninsured homeowners.

Multiple SERVPRO Storm team members are on site and already assisting with the clean up.

Naming a Tropical Storm

8/7/2017 (Permalink)

Since 1953, Atlantic tropical storms had been named from lists originated by the National Hurricane Center. They are now maintained and updated through a strict procedure by an international committee of the World Meteorological Organization.

There are six lists that are used in rotation and re-cycled every six years, i.e., the 2017 list will be used again in 2023. The only time that there is a change in the list is if a storm is so deadly or costly that the future use of its name on a different storm would be inappropriate for reasons of sensitivity. If that occurs, then at an annual meeting by the WMO committee (called primarily to discuss many other issues) the offending name is stricken from the list and another name is selected to replace it. Several names have been retired since the lists were created. Here is more information the history of naming tropical cyclones and retired names.

If a storm forms in the off-season, it will take the next name in the list based on the current calendar date. For example, if a tropical cyclone formed on December 28th, it would take the name from the previous season's list of names. If a storm formed in February, it would be named from the subsequent season's list of names.

In the event that more than twenty-one named tropical cyclones occur in the Atlantic basin in a season, additional storms will take names from the Greek alphabet.

Ice Dams and Hidden Damage

1/24/2017 (Permalink)

Infrared photo of hidden ice dam damage

ICE DAMS AND HIDDEN DAMAGE

Ice Dams form when snow or ice  accumulates on the surface of your roof, causing a “dam” at the edge of an in-insulated part of a roof, such as an overhang or eve. As the heating system heats the home and attic space throughout the day, snow and ice begin to melt from the heated areas and drips off of the roof.

Though beautiful, icicles form and begin to build up ice on the edge of the uninsulated part of the roof. Beneath this top layer water runs down into the gutter and then refreezes then continues over time to cause a large amount of ice build up over the top of the gutter. Water then starts to pool on your roof and seep back under your shingles, metal roofing or any other roofing system. 

As the ice melts again, it seeps into your attic and eventually comes through areas of the structure, resulting in water damage. This can cause damage to drywall, insulation, and framing materials. It can also be an incubation point for mold inside the wall cavity or external walls, ceiling, and even the attic. It can even potentially cause dry rot to the framing materials and reduce the structural integrity of the structure. Wet building materials can start to have a strong musty odor as well.

Ice dams can cause a large amount of damage to a commercial or residential structure. They can cause mold damage and even dry rot. If ice builds up too much it can even rip off rain gutters from the weight of the ice.

Here are a few easy preventative measures to reduce the potential for ice dams:

1.Check the attic for proper insulation. Building code requires a minimum of 14 inches deep of insulation in the attic.
2.String waterproof electric heat tape through your gutters to keep them from freezing and building up with ice.
3.Keep the snow off of your roof. If snow is building up on your roof, get it shoveled off to eliminate the melting of the bottom layer.

It is a really good idea to carefully and safely remove icicles from overhangs and eves. This will not only help prevent ice dams but also prevent any danger to kids or neighbors walking beneath the roof. Icicles can become very heavy and can hurt someone very badly if they fall.

If you have any questions about ice dams, water damage or mold feel free to call us at 1-800-SERVPRO.

Oregon flood concerns rise as memory of 1996 disaster lurks

1/16/2017 (Permalink)

If you lived in northwest Oregon in 1996, this week's weather and the forecast of what's to come may feel ominously familiar.

In late January of 1996, just like last week, heavy snowfall blanketed the region. Then a week-long cold snap set in, just like it did over the past few days.

In the first week of February 1996, an atmospheric river of moisture took aim at the state, bringing with it warm temperatures that melted the snow, and catastrophic flooding quickly followed suit.

On Saturday, the National Weather Service said a similar atmospheric river -- the meteorological term for a warm, moisture-rich storm system -- was headed our way so it appeared that all the pieces were in place for a repeat.

"With the heavy snowfall we got last week, added to the heavy rain we're expecting, the potential for impactful flooding is high," Will Ahue, a meteorologist with the weather service, said Saturday.

Unlike 1996, however, the region's largest rivers -- the Willamette and the Columbia -- aren't predicted to surpass flood stage and, weather being as unpredictable as it is, no one is sure yet exactly where the jet stream will make landfall and exactly how much rain it will drop.

***

When the rains came in early February of 1996, they were carried on a warm jet stream from the tropics. That warm air sent snow levels soaring and accelerated snowmelt in the mountains. The mix of rain and snowmelt inundated nearly every body of water in the region and sent rivers to flood stage and beyond in a matter of hours.

Eighteen of Oregon's 36 counties were declared disaster areas as Corvallis, Oregon City, Portland and other communities along the Willamette River were overwhelmed with water at levels not seen since the Christmas Floods of 1964.

At least eight people were killed, including an 8-year-old girl who drowned when she slipped into a culvert on her way to collect mail at her home in Scio. Another 21,000 were evacuated.

In Oregon City, the river flowed at such a torrent that Willamette Falls all but disappeared in the deluge. Water lapped at the sidewalks of RiverPlace in Southwest Portland and came within inches of cresting the harbor wall in downtown.

Some 40,000 sandbags and 600 plywood boards were deployed along the river in what came to be known as "Vera's Wall" after then-mayor Vera Katz.

The flooding was severe enough that President Bill Clinton visited Portland in the aftermath and commended the efforts of its citizens in helping fend off the flood from downtown.

"If you look at this wall behind us, it seems to me that it is a symbol of what our country does when everybody pulls together and works together and forgets about their differences and focuses their attention and their hearts and their minds," he said.

Prevent and Respond to Flooding

1/16/2017 (Permalink)

Prevent and Respond to Flooding

Be prepared to deal with flooding in your area by following these suggestions before the storm hits, once flooding has occurred and after the waters recede.

Before the storm

Prevent flooding problems

1. Keep storm drains clear of leaves and debris by raking or sweeping materials away from the drains. Drains near street corners and low areas of streets and parking lots are particularly key.
2. Dispose of fallen leaves and other yard debris properly - in compost areas, gardens, or take to the landfill.
3. Direct downspouts to at least 10 feet away from your home or business and clear gutters of any debris.
4. If you're in an area where flooding is known to occur, keep sandbags on hand and put valuables in a safe place.
5. Make sure your insurance policy covers flooding.

Prepare for flooding with family members or business associates.

1. Figure out the safest route from your home or business to safe ground. You may have to leave in a hurry so make sure everyone understands the plan and agree on a meeting point just in case people get separated. Don't forget about your pets.
2. List all valuables in your home or business, including all personal property. Keep the list in a safe location.
3. Put supplies of canned food and drinking water, medicine, and first aid supplies in a safe and accessible place, away from flood waters. Include flashlights, radio, extra batteries and cooking equipment.
4. Fill up your gas tank. Keep food, water, flashlights and medications in your car.
5. If you have lawn furniture or other items outside your home or business, put them inside.

When the water begins to rise

1. Monitor radio and TV stations or the National Weather Service for updates, particularly for your area.
2. If local officials advise evacuation, then evacuate quickly and safely. You may be directed to go to a specific location. Please follow instructions.
3. If water begins to rise around your home, evacuate to higher ground or a shelter, even if officials have not advised evacuation.
4. As you travel, watch for washed-out roads, areas where streams or rivers may be flooding the area, and for downed power lines. Also assess low areas, such as dips in the roadway, or areas below water level. Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. Turn around and drive another way.

After the flood

1. Drinking water can become contaminated by material carried by the flood to wells, and clean up is important to prevent illness from mold and mildew.
2. The Health Department recommends that anyone using water from a well in a flooded area should disinfect the water by heating it to a rolling boil for three to five minutes, then let cool before drinking. Water used for brushing teeth, washing dishes, or food requires the same treatment as drinking water. An alternative method of disinfection is to place eight drops of household liquid bleach into a gallon of water if the water is clear, or 16 drops of household liquid bleach into a gallon of water if the water is cloudy. After adding the bleach to the water, let the mixture stand for 30 minutes. Otherwise, bottled drinking water should be purchased from a local market.
3. Once the flooding has receded, chlorination and flushing of the well is recommended. If you decide to test your water for the presence of bacteria, the testing should be done by a certified laboratory to determine if bacteria levels are safe for human consumption.
4. Also after the floods, check for moisture on walls, floors, carpets and furniture. The dampness can support mold and mildew, which may cause asthma and other problems. To prevent mold growth, remove as much moisture as possible immediately after a flood. Dry the inside of your home by opening windows and doors and warming the house at least 15 degrees higher than the outside temperature. Mop up any standing water from floors. If furniture, clothing and other items have been dampened by floodwaters, remove them.
5. Hand washing is important during clean up to prevent illness. Wash your hands frequently even if you wear gloves. When the only water for available is contaminated, wash your hands with soap and water and then use an antibacterial hand sanitizer.
6. Protect yourself during clean up by wearing gloves and boots. Check with your medical provider to be sure your tetanus vaccine is up-to-date. A booster is needed every 10 years.

If you have any questions regarding Flooding or other water damage, feel free to call SERVPRO of Bend at 541-385-7044.

10 Things You're Not Doing To Prepare For A Disaster

9/8/2016 (Permalink)

1. Storing Enough Food.

2. Setting aside Cash.

3. Have an Out of Area Contact.

4. Storing Enough Water.

5. Have a Plan Ready for Your Family.

6. Haven't Figured Out Where You'd Go (Including Pets).

7. Your First Aid Kit is Incomplete or Nonexistent.

8. You are not Trained in CPR or First Aid.

9. You're not Practicing for a Disaster.

10. Your car is not in tip top shape.