Recent Storm Damage Posts

Roof Tarp & Board Up Service

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

When a storm or other emergency leaves your home open to the elements, you must act quickly to help prevent further damage and protect your home’s interior.

Trust Us When Emergencies Strike

Roof damage to your home or business can be caused by a storm, fire, or other emergency. Damage needs to be addressed immediately to help avoid further harm by the elements or intruders. Our professional crews use roof tarping and board-up techniques to help keep your home or business secure while the roof is inspected and repaired. 

Our Emergency Board-Up Services

If your windows or walls are damaged, you will need professional board-up services to secure your property. We use approved board-up techniques to help minimize further damage and secure your home or business from weather, animals, and illegal entry.

Available 24/7 Call SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield for your Roof Tarping & Board-Up Needs 

270-443-4555

Water Damage from Storms in Western Kentucky

9/26/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage from a storm event is the most common emergency.  Water can come from several sources:

  • Busted pipes
  • Roof leaks from wind damage
  • Sewer backup

The cleanup and restoration begins with a phone call. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of damage.

A water damage event can be traumatic and when you call, we understand you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. Our specialist will lead you through a series of questions to better understand your needs.

Our SERVPRO Specialist will ask several questions.  Become familiar with these so you can have this information ready:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Call SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield for your Water Emergency Needs!

We can be contacted 24/7 at 270-443-4555

Tornado Season: Tips to Weather the Storm

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

A large percentage of the population looks forward to Spring for a number of reasons: spring forward, spring weather, college basketball, The Masters, Golf Season, Crappie Fishing, Easter, the best fruits are coming in season and more. Although all of those are positive things to look forward to for Spring, something negative we have to look out for is tornadoes. March through June is tornado season. Tips to weather the storm are crucial for your safety. If a tornado strikes your home or business and causes damage, SERVPRO of Paducah and Mayfield can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Here are three tactics, according to Ready.gov, you can implement to prepare now for a tornado:

  • Know your area’s tornado risk. In the U.S., the Midwest and the Southeast have a greater risk for tornadoes.
  • Pay attention to weather reports. Meteorologists can predict when conditions might be right for a tornado.
  • Identify and practice going to a safe shelter in the event of high winds, such as a safe room built using FEMA criteria or a storm shelter built to ICC 500 standards. The next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.

There are a number of other tips to help keep you safe before, during and after a tornado. To learn more click here https://www.ready.gov/tornadoes

Available 24/7/365 SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield is ready to tarp and board, clean, and restore your property damage. 

Call 270-443-4555

Storm Season in Ballard and McCracken County Kentucky

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

FLOODS

Preparing for a Flood:

  • Know your risks for floods
  • Make a plan for your household, including your pets
  • Check to see if you need Flood Insurance

Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry (bet you already knew that). Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Failing to evacuate flooded areas or entering flood waters can lead to injury or death.

Floods may:

  • Result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges and overflows of dams and other water systems.
  • Develop slowly or quickly. Flash floods can come with no warning.
  • Cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings and create landslides.

If you are under a flood warning:

  • Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
  • Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
  • Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.

Call SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield 270-443-4555 for Water & Fire Cleanup & Restoration

Available 24/7/365

Weather Changes Happening in McCracken & Graves County Kentucky

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

It's that day again - April 1st - April Fools Day!

Storm season in here again too, and they are no joking matter.  Two days ago wind gusts were reported of 40-50 miles per hour!  

At 50+ MPH winds are officially classified as “damaging”. Shingles will be blown off. Tree limbs and other debris will be picked up. Damaged or water-saturated trees will start to fall.

Often storms and high winds can weaken even the biggest tree limbs that one day come crashing down.  It's recommended to have a qualified person inspect your trees for dead or rotting limbs and have them removed. 

It is also a good idea to review what your homeowner's insurance covers so you know your responsibility if your tree falls on the neighbor's house. 

Be safe! 

Call SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield @ 270-443-4555 if you experience Fire or Water damage.

Available 24/7/365

Ever Heard of Thundersnow in Ballard and McCracken County?

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

We saw some crazy weather over the last few weeks.  It was in the 60's and 70's around Christmas.  Then we experienced freezing temperatures with 3 to 6 inches of snow in Western Kentucky, and heavier amounts south and east of us.  Predictions came true on Saturday with warming temperatures, unusual Lightning and loud Thunder with heavy rain in some places.  It didn't take long for the snow to disappear!  :(

Had the temperatures stayed cold we could have experienced the Thundersnow effect.  Never heard of it-Thundersnow, also known as a winter thunderstorm or a thundersnowstorm, is an unusual kind of thunderstorm with snow falling as the primary precipitation.  

We heard tremendous claps of Thunder and long streaks of Lightning across the sky last Saturday.  However the precipitation was Rain instead of Snow.  :(

The Rain on top of the Snow caused flooding in some areas.  Perhaps you experienced some water damage in your home or business from all the excess water.

Available 24/7 SERVPRO of Paducah and Mayfield is here to help.  Call 270-443-4555 for Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration.

Your Belongings and Storm Damage in Graves and McCracken County

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

Storm and water damage affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO®  understands that your home is more than a structure; your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings help transform a house into a home.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO specializes in restoring contents damaged by storms and other water damage events. Our expertise and our “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We'll pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored back to their condition before the water damage. We utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

  • Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to cleaning.
  • Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
  • Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand cleaning.
  • Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if cleaned.
  • Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
  • Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

  • A quicker remodeling process
  • Protecting items from potential damage
  • Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Available 24/7 SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield is Here to Help.  You can reach us at 270-443-4555

Protect Yourself From Winter Weather in Paducah & Mayfield Kentucky

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Know your winter weather terms:

Winter Storm Warning

Issued when hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring. Winter Storm Warnings are usually issued 12 to 24 hours before the event is expected to begin.

Winter Storm Watch

Alerts the public to the possibility of a blizzard, heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet. Winter Storm Watches are usually issued 12 to 48 hours before the beginning of a Winter Storm.

Winter Weather Advisory

Issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and sleet which will cause significant inconveniences and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to life-threatening situations.

In Case of Emergency

Be prepared for winter weather at home, at work and in your car. Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks. Keep a full tank of gas.

(Click here for more information https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather#prepare)

SERVPRO of Paducah is avaialble 24/7 for Fire & Water Cleanup and Restoration.  You can reach us at 270-443-4555

www.SERVPROpaducahmayfield.com

When Storms or Floods hit Graves, Ballard, or Fulton County Kentucky SERVPRO is ready!

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Graves, Ballard, or Fulton Kentucky we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

We hope you never experience Storm or Flood Damage but we're available 24/7 just in case!

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 270-443-4555

SERVPRO Storm Response Team - Paducah & Mayfield, Kentucky

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

No catastrophe or emergency is too big for SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield.  

Earlier this year, February to be exact, the jet stream pulled the arctic Polar Vortex farther south into Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.  This affected more than 120 million people across the United States with frigid temperatures, ice, and snow which resulted in blackouts and frozen pipes, causing significant damage to homes and businesses. Texas was the hardest hit state with almost all local SERVPRO franchises in the state needing help within a matter of hours.

This was by far, the largest Storm event in the history of SERVPRO and the largest event in the entire industry as a whole. SERVPRO was called to respond and help the local territories provide service to as many customers as possible in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas.

  • More than 300 franchises mobilized, sending over 600 crews.
  • For the first time ever we even had a franchise from Hawaii, SERVPRO of Kailua, travel with our Storm Response teams.
  • Through our Storm Response teams alone, SERVPRO produced over 5,500 jobs.

Be assured SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield can expect this same assistance if our area ever has a catastrophe or emergency situation.  

We can be reached 24/7 at 270-443-4555 for Fire, Water, or Mold cleanup and restoration!

High Winds

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Today is April 1st - April Fools Day! 

However, it was no joke when the couple living in this house was suddenly awakened by a loud noise at 5:30 one morning. They described it as sounding like an explosion. Fortunately, no one was injured. As you can see in the picture the huge limb fell within inches of the back door.

Often storms and high winds can weaken even the biggest tree limbs and one day come crashing down. 

It's the time of year when we get strong storms, tornadoes, and high winds. Have your trees inspected for dead or rotting limbs before this happens to you!  

You also need to check your homeowner's insurance to know what your responsibility is if your tree falls on the neighbor's house.

Call SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield anytime 24/7 if you need Fire & Water cleanup and restoration!

Educate Kids & Teens about Severe Weather

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Have little ones at home?  Most of them become frightened when they hear about severe weather on the news or hear the loud ear-piercing siren when bad weather is approaching. Often times knowledge will reduce fear and anxiety.

You can teach them about the weather using a free on-line game called Owlie Skywarn! Go on a severe weather preparedness adventure and earn a Young Meteorologists Certificate at https://www.weather.gov/owlie/

Your kids will learn about science and safety in a fun way!

Now let's talk about what we parents and grandparents can do. Each year, people in this country are killed or seriously injured by all types of extreme weather, despite advance warning. The National Weather Service provides so much information and warnings using technology, but they still rely on us to help on a local level. They ask everyone to “Be a Force of Nature”

Be a Force of Nature by knowing your risk, taking action and being an example in your community.  Click here https://www.weather.gov/wrn/force/ to learn more about this simple but effective program that can help keep hundreds or thousands of our family, friends and neighbors safe.

Call SERVPRO of Paducah and Mayfield at 270-443-4555 for our storm damage professionals to make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield are Ready When Storms hit

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit McCracken or Graves county, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today @ 270-443-4555 

Winter Weather

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

We just had our first taste of really cold temperatures! It could serve as a reminder to get prepared for possible winter storms. Dig out those scarfs, gloves, and boots stored away all summer! In Western Kentucky we can experience extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds - sometimes in one day! These conditions can last a few hours or a few days. 

In addition to frostbite and hypothermia, extremely cold temperatures and wind chill can cause pipes to burst, flooding your home or business.

For a complete guide to how to prepare and survive extreme conditons go to - https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield will be ready to help for any Fire or Water cleanup & restoration.  Contact us at 270-443-4555

When Storms or Floods hit the Paducah/Mayfield area, SERVPRO is ready!

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

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

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 270-443-4555

Getting Familiar with SERVPRO Storm Services

8/8/2020 (Permalink)

What types of storm damage can the SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield address?

Storm damage does not always occur from heavy showers or thunderstorms that we typically envision as "storms." In fact, there is a wide range of damage that can occur in any and all seasons of the year, especially in an area as unpredictable as Kentucky. These storms are included, but not limited to...

  • flooding caused by heavy rains
  • ice and hail storms
  • snow storms
  • tornadoes and wind damage 
  • wild fires
  • lightning fires

Here at the SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield, we have seen it all. We have helped homeowners recover from the most devastating circumstances. 

Necessary Immediate Response-- the SERVPRO way

FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASER: The SERVPRO of Paducah & Mayfield is equipped to arrive at the scene as soon as you give us a call. Storms can leave citizens with almost nothing in an instant, so it is very important that you are prepared with a team as ready as we are. 

Storms Cause Major Damage

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

Tree in Bathroom This is the tree that fell through the roof into the bathroom.

When a large tree fell onto the roof of this duplex, much of it ended up in the bathroom where it damaged plumbing lines, adding to the water damage already caused by the heavy rains accompanying the wind storm. The property owners knew to call SERVPRO of Paducah based on our word of mouth reputation. Our emergency crews immediately responded. The water was shut off, the tree was removed from the structure, and then it was secured with a tarp. Standing water was extracted, and wet non-salvageable materials were identified with a thermal imaging camera and moisture meters, and then removed. The structure was rapidly dried with our equipment, and reconstruction followed. This allowed the tenants to return to their homes, and the income loss for the property owners was mitigated.

Lots of Rain Brings Flooding

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

When heavy storms hit, they can bring flood damage with them and cause intense destruction to many homes. In the case of your home, the intense storm flooded the streets and backed up sewage drainage which we have seen in recent weeks here in Paducah. In just a few hours of storming, intense wind, and rain, your home had become the host to foul-smelling black water.

Whenever your home experiences flood damage, it is wise to reach out for help right away. After all, water-based damages get far worse as time goes on, as they become a breeding ground for mold damage. However, because of the black water in your home, the urgency to get help is even more pressing.

Black water is a categorization of standing water. It is water filled with potential contaminants, such as bio hazardous materials, sewage, and petroleum gas. Here at SERVPRO, our highly trained technicians know exactly how to combat black water.

Once we arrive at your home, our SERVPRO technicians can get to work straight away. Due to the sheer volume of black water, we must remove it to inspect the damages to your floors, furniture, and walls. We can use truck-mounted extractors and wet/dry vacuums to remove the water and then dispose of it safely away from your home. Once the water has been removed, we can investigate and begin to take inventory.

Due to the nature of black water, anything carpeted or upholstered cannot be clean, as it cannot be guaranteed safe. All affected carpets and fabrics must be thrown away, but SERVPRO can help you make an insurance claim. Once belongings are removed, we can focus on demolishing the damaged materials inside.

Our water damage restoration technicians can make cuts to drywall and remove any affected flooring. Afterward, before a rebuild, our technicians can set up ozone machines inside of your emptied home to combat the foul smell the black water brought into your home. Once finished, we can leave your home to you, as if the flood never occurred.

If black water spills into your home and causes flood damage, never wait. Immediately contact SERVPRO of Paducah at 270-443-4555.

When Storms Hit

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Fallen Tree on Home after Storm Fallen Tree that was uprooted from a storm on a home. SERVPRO Crew is trying to figure out how to get the tree off the home and were successful.

SERVPRO of Paducah is a strong, reliable and trusted leader in emergency response for our area. Our team is committed to informing our community on how to be better prepared for when severe weather hits. When a bad storm hits, it can cause mayhem and devastation. As a 24 hour emergency response team, SERVPRO of Paducah is here whenever you may need them. Our teams provide immediate and professional services to you, doing whatever they can to rectify such an unfortunate situation. Our crew members faced all kinds of storm damages in the past; including flooded basements, tree limbs falling down on homes and businesses & water damage in attics. Urgency is very important to us. We know how difficult and disastrous times like these can be. Our teams care not only about their work, but those who they are completing the job for. For any storm needs, call SERVPRO of Paducah!

SERVPRO is Storm Ready

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

While our area has not seen a major weather event recently, SERVPRO is always ready to jump into action. SERVPRO Storm Team works 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We have a network of strategically positioned teams all over the country on standby when a storm happens. Inclement weather can bring wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding that can devastate any home or business in a matter of seconds. There is never a good time for a water damage caused by these storms to happen. Every hour spent cleaning up after these events is hard on the home or business owners. So, when these emergency situations occur SERVPRO has the means and manpower to help in a quick and orderly fashion. There is no job too large. If a local franchise can’t assist, then other SERVPRO franchises will be contacted to come and save the day! The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team has provided help and assistance in many instances such as the 2017 California Fires and 2017 Hurricane Irma and Harvey just to name a few.

What is a Flash Flood?

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Here in Paducah during a storm season, we oftentimes find flash flood warnings pop up on our phone screens. But what really is a flash flood? And can it actually affect us?

What is a flash flood?

Flash flooding can be defined as flooding that begins within six hours, and oftentimes within three hours, of heavy rainfall (or other cause).

Where do they occur?

The intensity of the rainfall, the location and distribution of the rainfall, the land use and topography, vegetation types and growth/density, soil type, and soil water-content all determine just how quickly the Flash Flooding may occur, and influence where it may occur.

Flash flooding is possible anywhere. It can occur in urban areas due to the lack of land area for water to infiltrate. It can also occur in rural areas where water already has a head start in occupying, such as streams or creeks.

How can it affect me?

Flash Flooding occurs so quickly that people are caught off-guard when the situation arises. The instance can become dangerous if they encounter high, fast-moving water while traveling. If people are at their homes or businesses, the water may rise quickly and trap them, or cause damage to the property. 

While they may sound trivial, flash floods can be very dangerous if one is not prepared with knowledge on the nature of the flood. It is important to be prepared and pay attention to news reports and word-of-mouth accounts. 

Record Precipitation in Paducah Impacts Homeowners

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

The bolded blue line represents Paducah's precipitation for 2019 from Jan-May. Image credit via www.ncdc.noaa.gov.

In 2019, Paducah has faced record breaking precipitation rates. Nearly every day this summer, Paducah has faced long overcast hours and intense storms; enough to make a big impact on homeowners and their property. The SERVPRO of Paducah staff is cognizant of this and prepared to help McCracken county's citizens with their storm-defensive tasks. 

Fast Facts on Jan-May 2019 Paducah Precipitation Report

  • 2019's precipitation rates have surpassed records of 70 years
  • Paducah's 1981-2010 average was 21.22", while 2019's average has been 38.56".
  • Paducah's precipitation rates top many of the biggest cities in the surrounding area of the country, including Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Evansville, whose 2019 records only met 34.58" or less.

Information courtesy of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Further information can be found at their website.

How SERVPRO of Paducah can help

SERVPRO of Paducah's understanding and knowledgeable staff utilizes this information to help clients make informed decisions when it comes to storm restoration. When an influx of rain and jarring thunderstorms arises, Paducah's friendly SERVPRO staff is there to help, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

How to Stay Safe in a Thunderstorm

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Thunder roars loudly and can be very frightening – but by itself can’t really hurt anyone. Its two most fearsome companions however, can be very dangerous indeed:

  • Lightning killed an average of 31 people a year between 2006 and 2015, and injured another 279.1 Your estimated odds of being struck in an 80-year lifespan are 1 in 13,000.1 And yes, those are higher odds than winning a fortune in the lottery.
  • Hail can happen during any strong storm, hurling chunks of ice to the earth at speeds up to 120 mph – and they range in size from a pea to a grapefruit! That’s a hefty projectile.

So to protect yourself, your family and home from these real dangers takes a little bit of knowledge and preparation. Here are some hail and lighting safety tips: 

Protecting yourself

Know the “30/30” rule: When you see a lightning flash, start counting. If you don't make it to 30 before hearing the thunder, head indoors. Then stay indoors until 30 minutes after hearing the last boom of thunder.

If you’re already indoors

  • Avoid using corded phones and electronics such as computers or power tools. Electrical wires can conduct lightning.
  • Don't use your cell phone during a thunderstorm.
  • Don't wash your hands, shower, wash dishes or do laundry. Metal pipes in the plumbing can also conduct lightning.
  • High winds and hail can shatter glass, so stay away from windows, skylights and doors.
  • Keep drapes and blinds closed to prevent hail-shattered glass from blowing in or flying around.

If you're outside when a storm hits

  • Take shelter when you see dark clouds or lightning, hear thunder or feel hail.
  • Head for an enclosed building, rather than a carport or open garage.
  • No enclosed structure? Get inside a hardtop, all-metal car, truck or SUV. Avoid leaning against vehicles.
  • Get off bicycles and motorcycles.
  • If no shelter from lightning is available, squat down and put your hands on your knees with your head in between to make yourself a smaller target.
  • If you’re in the water, head for shore immediately and avoid metal objects. Water and metal can both carry an electrical current.
  • If you're in a group of people, spread out.
  • Take care of your pets by bringing them inside. Doghouses are not lightning- or hail-proof.

Storm and flood damage can be devastating. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. SERVPRO of Paducah’s Professionals have the expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Solar Panels vs. Nature: What Could Crack the Cells

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Solar panel damage is rare, but when it does happen, it’s usually as a result of a hard-hitting storm. There are a few things you can do to prepare if you know a storm is on the way to Murray, Benton, Cadiz, & Princeton, KY. The examples below of instances where panels stayed intact may give you peace of mind that yours could also stay safe.


When Nature Strikes 


Solar panels are usually built to hold up even in the most extreme of circumstances. However, there are some common causes to damaged panels. 

• Hail (especially when it hits the same spot repeatedly)
• High winds (uplift can happen when wind blows between your roof and panels)
• Roof damage (if your roof wasn’t built well to begin with, the panels can fly off with it)


Where Solar Panels Stayed Intact


Storms have tested panels with much success in recent years:

• Hurricane Maria: 180 mph winds didn’t even leave a scratch on a 645 kW solar array on a VA hospital in San Juan. It operated well after the storm, even though nearly all of the island was without power.
• Hurricane Sandy: panel damage was few and far between in New Jersey when this hurricane hit in 2012, days after the state installed dozens of panels. 
• Severe hail in Denver: only one out of more than 3,000 panels on the National Renewable Energy Laboratory campus was damaged in this rare storm. 


What To Do Before and After the Storm


Prepare for a storm the same way you would without solar panels. Don’t try to remove them, as the racks are built to handle the storm. You may want to take pictures of the system just in case. If the storm does cause an issue, you can show those pictures to your insurance agent. Most providers cover panels, but you may want to double check before it’s too late. 

When you do experience panel damage, don’t try to fix it yourself. Always call a professional in Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton, KY, first.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROmurraybentoncadizprinceton.com/

Are you “Weather Aware”? Tips for Being Prepared as Storm Season Approaches

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paducah has been involved in emergency storm assistance for many years now and during that time has actively worked with local insurance companies and emergency management teams to assist people in extremely difficult and dangerous situations. With severe weather season fast approaching our area, it is important to be reminded of some basic safety tips in order to stay prepared and alert during our ever changing weather patterns.  

From the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management:

“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!” 

  • Before a thunderstorm arrives, know the key warning signs: dark clouds, lightening, and thunder

  • Get informed with a weather radio or by watching the news

  • Have an emergency kit on hand that includes flashlights, battery operated weather radio, first aid kit, food and water, and essential medicines

  • Stay inside and sheltered. If outside, move indoors or into a vehicle. Get out of water immediately. If trapped outside, make yourself as small as possible in a low lying area

  • Make sure to wait at least 30 minutes after the storm has passed before going outside 

In addition, in order to be prepared for a tornado:

  • Have a family tornado plan in place and practice a family tornado drill

  • Watch for weather signs like dark greenish skies, large hail, dark low clouds and load roaring sounds

  • Put as many walls and floors between you and the tornado as possible

  • Flying debris is the greatest danger during a tornado

  • If in a mobile home – GET OUT! Find a neighbor, underground shelter, or permanent structure for safety

As a trusted leader in emergency response for our area, SERVPRO of Paducah is committed to helping our community be prepared for weather emergencies. As a 24 hour emergency response partner, SERVPRO is dedicated to providing immediate and professional services to you and your family should the need arise during this severe weather season. 

Storm Season is Here in Paducah, Kentucky - Be Ready!

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help with your storm damage!

It's that time of year again when storms can appear out of nowhere with forceful winds and torrential rains. We all want to keep our homes and families safe during this time. The best way to keep your family safe is through an at home kit. It's all about safety first, and having a storm plan in place before it hits.

FEMA gives us great tips on how to get started preparing our families and ourselves for storms:

  1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?

  2. What is my shelter plan?

  3. What is my evacuation route?

  4. What is my family/household communication plan?

Have a family meeting and discuss these steps to see what works best for you. 

We hope you don't need us, but when the storms pass through --remember SERVPRO of Paducah is here 365 24/7! 

Solar Panels vs. Nature: What Could Crack the Cells

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

Solar panel damage is rare, but when it does happen, it’s usually as a result of a hard-hitting storm. There are a few things you can do to prepare if you know a storm is on the way to Paducah, KY. The examples below of instances where panels stayed intact may give you peace of mind that yours could also stay safe.


When Nature Strikes 


Solar panels are usually built to hold up even in the most extreme of circumstances. However, there are some common causes to damaged panels. 

• Hail (especially when it hits the same spot repeatedly)
• High winds (uplift can happen when wind blows between your roof and panels)
• Roof damage (if your roof wasn’t built well to begin with, the panels can fly off with it)


Where Solar Panels Stayed Intact


Storms have tested panels with much success in recent years:

• Hurricane Maria: 180 mph winds didn’t even leave a scratch on a 645 kW solar array on a VA hospital in San Juan. It operated well after the storm, even though nearly all of the island was without power.
• Hurricane Sandy: panel damage was few and far between in New Jersey when this hurricane hit in 2012, days after the state installed dozens of panels. 
• Severe hail in Denver: only one out of more than 3,000 panels on the National Renewable Energy Laboratory campus was damaged in this rare storm. 


What To Do Before and After the Storm


Prepare for a storm the same way you would without solar panels. Don’t try to remove them, as the racks are built to handle the storm. You may want to take pictures of the system just in case. If the storm does cause an issue, you can show those pictures to your insurance agent. Most providers cover panels, but you may want to double check before it’s too late. 

When you do experience panel damage, don’t try to fix it yourself. Always call a professional in Paducah, KY, first.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROpaducah.com/.

Keep Calm During the Storm with SERVPRO of Paducah

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

With severe weather season here in our area, it is important to be reminded of some basic safety tips in order to stay prepared and alert during our ever changing weather patterns.  

From the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management:

“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!” 

  • Before a thunderstorm arrives, know the key warning signs:  dark clouds, lightening, and thunder

  • Get informed with a weather radio or by watching the news

  • Have an emergency kit on hand that includes flashlights, battery operated weather radio, first aid kit, food and water, and essential medicines

  • Stay inside and sheltered.  If outside, move indoors or into a vehicle.  Get out of water immediately.  If trapped outside, make yourself as small as possible in a low lying area

  • Make sure to wait at least 30 minutes after the storm has passed before going outside 

In addition, in order to be prepared for a tornado:

  • Have a family tornado plan in place and practice a family tornado drill

  • Watch for weather signs like dark greenish skies, large hail, dark low clouds and load roaring sounds

  • Put as many walls and floors between you and the tornado as possible

  • Flying debris is the greatest danger during a tornado

  • If in a mobile home – GET OUT!  Find a neighbor, underground shelter, or permanent structure for safety

As a trusted leader in emergency response for our area, SERVPRO of Paducah is committed to helping our community be prepared for weather emergencies.  As a 24 hour emergency response partner, SERVPRO is dedicated to providing immediate and professional services to you and your family should the need arise during this severe weather season.

Strong Wind Event in Western KY

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

Storm Damage to Local Home

Western Kentucky and the Paducah community have witnessed many dramatic weather events in the last decade. These events have ranged from crippling ice storms to torrential rains and devastating tornadoes. Many home and business owners are able to escape free of damage and frustration. However, there are many who do not get off as easily and must deal with the headache of storm damage.

High winds can create more damage than one might expect. This customer was forced to deal with significant roof damage after a wind event. Strong winds caused a large tree to fall on the roof of the home. SERVPRO of Paducah swiftly responded and secured a tarp over the damage to protect the home from further harm. In the days following, SERVPRO of Paducah completed the reconstruction necessary to put the home back together, "Like if never even happened."

If you experience storm damage at your Paducah home or business, call SERVPRO of Paducah to help! 

When Storms or Floods hit Paducah, SERVPRO is ready!

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Paducah.

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

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

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

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 270-443-4555.

When Storms or Floods hit Paducah or Murray, SERVPRO is ready!

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

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

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

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

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (270) 443-4555

Crazy July Storms in Western Kentucky

9/12/2016 (Permalink)

July 4th is usually the premier weekend of summer In Western Kentucky, but this past July proved to be very different.  Storms took over the area with torrential rain and excessive winds which led to major flooding and uprooted trees.  The area was faced with severe wind damage and several roads were washed away.  With the phones ringing off the hook, our crews hit the pavement in full force to take care of our community.  Many homes and businesses were faced with large tree limbs through their roofs, allowing heavy rain to enter their attics; others encountered flooded basements. All of these concerns are important to SERVPRO.  We know how urgent the need is to respond to these kinds of emergencies! It’s your home---your business--- our concern. When it comes to our community we stand together!