Here in Florida we have taken a cue from the past as well as hurricanes that have hit elsewhere.  No matter the planning ahead, we still cannot predict the storms and what damage they cause.  This is a new construction home on the east coast that was built "high and dry" according to historical storm facts.  During Hurricane Matthew they received a storm surge that brought water and muck over 2 feet high into their home.  Luckily, they were prepared and had SERVPRO of Alachua County West's number on hand because we are "Faster to any size disaster."

Hurricanes bring heavy rains and gusting winds that cause lots of damage, but in many coastal towns it is the storm surge that causes the most damage.  It can be overwhelming and leave you wondering where to start.  Just like this small coastal restaurant that came in to chaos and destruction in all areas of their restaurant due to storm surge.

The rising floodwaters from Hurricane Irma were catastrophic to many homeowners.  Many times it can be tempting to begin restoration by yourself, but as this photo shows, not having the correct tools or experience can leave you with even more damage.  These homeowners tried cutting out their own drywall, but had to replace more than what was damaged by flooding as they struggled with tear-out.  Do yourself a favor and call SERVPRO of Alachua County West to begin the process and save those extra dollars lost to good intentions.

Here in Florida we are used to moderate winter temps and plenty of sunshine, though we are no stranger to winter storms and sudden freezing weather at night and climbing temperatures the next day.  This is a recipe for frozen pipes which can burst with the sudden thaw from fast moving storm systems and rising temperatures.  This photo shows that sometimes these pipes are not easy to access and can cause lots of damage.

Living in Florida, many of us have become accustomed to violent storms and their aftermath, but when your home is affected it can become overwhelming.  Call SERVPRO of Alachua County West at the first sign of disaster not only to help you through it with our knowledge and expertise, but also minimize damage to affected and unaffected parts of your home.  This photo shows containment set up in a room that has an open roof due to a tree falling, minimizing damage to other rooms in the home.

Our Emergency Response Team is one of the reasons we are "Faster to any size disaster."  They are ready to mobilize and embark across the country at a moments notice in times of disaster that affect different states and regions.  Our mobile command unit ensures that we have the supplies needed as well as a comfortable place for our technicians to rest when they are away, helping families make it "Like it never even happened."