Recent Posts

How Can I Avoid Frozen Pipes?

1/19/2024 (Permalink)

pipe bursting Taking proactive steps to winterize your home can save you from the hassle and expense of dealing with frozen pipes.

Frigid temperatures are upon us, to avoid frozen pipes its essential to prepare your home for the colder temperatures to prevent the inconvenience and potential damage caused by frozen pipes. Frozen pipes can lead to burst pipes, water damage, and costly repairs. Here are some helpful tips to winterize your home and protect your plumbing system.

  • Insulate Exposed Pipes: One of the most effective ways to prevent pipes from freezing is to insulate them. Insulation helps retain heat and keeps the pipes at a stable temperature. Use pipe insulation sleeves or wrapping material to cover exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as the basement, crawl spaces, and attics.
  • Seal Leaks and Gaps: Inspect your home for any gaps or cracks that could allow cold air to enter and affect your pipes. Seal these openings with caulk or insulation to prevent drafts. Pay special attention to areas where pipes enter your home, as these are common points for cold air infiltration.
  • Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses: Before the winter freeze sets in, disconnect all outdoor hoses and drain the water from them. A frozen hose can lead to back pressure in the pipes inside your home, increasing the risk of freezing. Store hoses in a dry place to prolong their lifespan.
  • Locate and Shut Off External Water Sources: If you have external water sources, such as sprinkler systems, make sure to turn off the water supply and drain the pipes. This will prevent water from freezing and causing damage to the system.
  • Keep Interior Temperatures Consistent: Maintain a consistent temperature inside your home, especially during extremely cold nights. Set your thermostat to a temperature that will keep the interior warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing. Even when you're away, avoid turning off the heating system completely.
  • Let Faucets Drip: On exceptionally cold nights, allow faucets to drip slowly. This continuous flow of water helps prevent freezing by relieving pressure in the pipes. Focus on faucets located along exterior walls and those in colder areas of your home.
  • Use Heat Tape: For added protection, consider using heat tape on vulnerable pipes. Heat tape is designed to provide a constant source of low-level heat, helping to prevent freezing. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation.
  • Open Cabinet Doors: In kitchens and bathrooms, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes located under sinks. This is especially important for pipes along exterior walls, as these are more susceptible to freezing.

Taking proactive steps to winterize your home can save you from the hassle and expense of dealing with frozen pipes. By insulating, sealing gaps, disconnecting outdoor hoses, shutting off external water sources, maintaining consistent interior temperatures, letting faucets drip, using heat tape, and opening cabinet doors, you'll be well-prepared to face the winter months without the worry of plumbing issues. Stay warm, stay dry, and enjoy a worry-free winter in your well-protected home.

If you experience water damage in your home or place of business SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh / Team Dobson is Here to Help®. We are a locally owned and operated company with national resources, so we can handle any size job. We will respond immediately, and we have the expertise and equipment to restore your property as quickly as possible.

Give us a call at (412) 474-0911 or visit our website for more information!

How to Handle a Snowstorm in Pittsburgh

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

house covered in snow To handle a snow storm, it is essential to prepare ahead of time.

To handle a snow storm, it is essential to prepare ahead of time. Have plenty of supplies, such as food, water, and medication, on hand. Clear driveways, sidewalks, and walkways as soon as possible. Dress warmly when venturing outside, and avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. Stay updated with weather alerts and road conditions. In case of power outages, use generators and alternative heating sources safely. Never leave candles or open flames unattended. Finally, check on your vulnerable neighbors and elderly relatives to ensure their safety.


To prepare your home for a snow storm, you can wrap your pipes in pool noodles to help keep them insulated. You can also leave your kitchen cabinets open to allow warm air in. In addition, you can keep the faucet dripping to keep a steady flow of water happening to ensure the pipes don’t freeze. If you experience water damage in your North Shore, Downtown Pittsburgh, or surrounding areas home, don’t hesitate to reach out and give us a call. For immediate assistance, call (412) 474-0911 or visit our Website to learn more.

Fire Damage Solutions for Your Pittsburgh Property

10/28/2023 (Permalink)

soot and smoke damage to home Your local SERVPRO® is Here to Help® to turn chaos into peace. There is no damage that is too bad for us to fix.

Have you experienced a fire in your Pittsburgh, North Shore, or surrounding areas home or business recently? Fire damage can look like:

  • Soot and smoke damage to walls, floors, ceilings, and belongings
  • Structural Damage
  • Effects to plumbing and electrical systems

Fire damage can be devastating. Your local SERVPRO® is Here to Help® to turn chaos into peace. There is no damage that is too bad for us to fix. We have a cleaning and a construction department that comes together to make your home or commercial property fire damage look, "Like it never even happened."


SERVPRO® of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson has the capabilities to restore the fire damage that has occurred in your home or commercial property. Our team of experts restores belongings and properties by cleaning soot and smoke damage. We have the proper equipment to restore your property and your belongings. We offer free estimates if you have experienced fire damage. For immediate assistance, give us a call (412) 474-0911 or visit our Website to learn more.

Who to Call When Water Damage Strikes Your Pittsburgh Home

10/23/2023 (Permalink)

pipe burst in wall Frozen pipes can cause them to burst, leading to water damage in homes and buildings.

Winter water damage to Downtown Pittsburgh, North Shore, and surrounding area homes is a common problem due to freezing temperatures, ice dams, and burst pipes. Frozen pipes can cause them to burst, leading to water damage in homes and buildings. Ice dams can also cause water to seep into walls and ceilings, leading to mold growth and structural damage. It's important to take preventative measures such as insulating pipes, sealing windows and doors, and clearing gutters to prevent water damage during the winter months. If water damage occurs, it's essential to quickly remove standing water and properly dry out affected areas to prevent further damage and mold growth. 


If you experience water damage in your home SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson is available 24/7 to help you. We offer water damage testing to detect water in your ceiling, floors, and walls. Our team is made up of experienced and skilled professionals that are ready to help whenever emergency disasters strike. If you ever need immediate assistance, don’t hesitate to give us a call, (412) 474-0911 or visit our Website to learn more.

4 Tips to Restoration After a Fire in Pittsburgh

9/27/2023 (Permalink)

fire alarm SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson is available 24/7 for fire damage disaster emergencies.

Building fire restoration can be a challenging task, but there are several tips to help restore the building back to its pre-fire condition. 

  • Firstly, assess the extent of the damage and call in professionals to help with the restoration process. 
  • Remove all debris and damaged materials, and clean all surfaces thoroughly to remove soot and smoke damage. 
  • Use dehumidifiers to dry out any moisture and eliminate the risk of mold growth. 
  • Finally, replace any damaged or destroyed systems such as plumbing, electrical or HVAC to ensure safety.


It's important to work methodically and systematically to ensure a successful restoration. SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson is available 24/7 for fire damage disaster emergencies. We are Here to Help when the job is too big for you to handle. If you have experienced a fire in your Downtown Pittsburgh, North Shore or surrounding areas home or business, we can make it look, ‘Like it never even happened.’ For immediate assistance, call (412) 474-0911 or visit our Website to learn more.

How to Prevent Water Damage in Your Pittsburgh Commercial Building

9/15/2023 (Permalink)

pipe water damage If you detect leaks in the ceiling or walls, you may want to repair them immediately to avoid long term damage.

Commercial water damage can occur when you experience heavy rains. Water can come in through drains, walls, and ceilings. It is important to make sure your plumbing and pipes are working correctly in order to avoid water damage. If you detect leaks in the ceiling or walls, you may want to repair them immediately to avoid long term damage. SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson is Here to Help. 

There are several ways to avoid commercial water damage:

  • Regularly inspect and maintain all plumbing systems, including pipes, fixtures, and appliances.
  • Ensure proper drainage around the building and maintain any exterior landscaping that could contribute to excess water buildup.
  • Install sturdy, leak-proof roofing materials and keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris.
  • Be prepared for emergencies by having a plan in place and educating employees on proper response procedures.
  • Consider investing in commercial water damage insurance to provide added protection and peace of mind.

If you happen to experience water damage in your Downtown Pittsburgh or surrounding areas commercial property, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call (412) 474-0911 for immediate assistance or visit our Website to learn more.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

servpro team in front of truck Here at SERVPRO, we specialize in training our employees to be the best specialist they can be when they go out on the field.

SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson is a leading fire and water restoration and cleanup company. We are highly trained water damage specialists, and we use advanced drying equipment and techniques. To find out how we are highly trained and what type of equipment we use, read below!

Highly Trained Specialists

Here at SERVPRO, we specialize in training our employees to be the best specialist they can be when they go out on the field. We are confident that when a customer calls on us for help, we can efficiently and effectively take care of their needs with experts in tow. Our employees receive the training listed below:

  • IICRC Training
  • Employee Certification Training
  • Initial Franchise Training
  • e-Learnings
  • Continuing Education Classes

Advanced Equipment

Here at SERVPRO we have the latest technology equipment so that we can better serve our customers. Better technology equipment means faster turnaround times, lowers costs, and creates a satisfaction for the customer and us knowing that the job is getting done quickly and correctly. Below is a list of some of the new technology equipment that we have:

?  Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

?  Water Extraction Equipment

?  Drying Equipment

?  Odor Removal and Deodorization

?  Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Anti-Microbial Treatments

SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson are fire and water damage restoration specialists. We are always Here to Help, 24/7. Give us a call at (330) 392-6355 for immediate assistance or visit our Website!

Commercial Water Mitigation in Downtown Pittsburgh

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

flood outside of building In a large commercial facility, when there is a flood, a major pipe burst, or a water loss of any kind, it typically takes a professional to clean and

In a large commercial facility, when there is a flood, a major pipe burst, or a water loss of any kind, it typically takes a professional to clean and restore. Since the facility is so large, they typically do not have the equipment or time to get the property back to its pre loss condition. SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson is a Large Loss Response Team and we have the capacity, equipment, and experience to efficiently get your business back to “Like it never even happened.”

Is There a Job Too Large?

It is the water you don't see that does the most damage to your property. As a commercial business owner it is important to be aware of the water damage occurring and call our team of highly trained technicians to restore it. After water damage, you can expect damaged drywall, baseboards, and carpeting, all of which must be removed. Now the property is all set for a rebuild! Water mitigation is just one way we help bring peace of mind to your Downtown Pittsburgh property.

SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson are fire and water damage restoration specialists. We are always Here to Help, 24/7. Give us a call at (412) 474-0911 for immediate assistance, or visit our Website!

How You Can Prevent Fires in Your North Shore Home?

8/10/2023 (Permalink)

smoke alarm he most important thing to know to help prevent a fire in your home is to recognize the various sources in which a fire can start.

There is no doubt that we never know when a fire disaster can occur. However, there are many things you can do to help prevent the chance of a fire in your North Shore home. The most important thing to know to help prevent a fire in your home is to recognize the various sources in which a fire can start.

How Can a Fire Start in My Home?

Fires can start from all sorts of places. Below are the most common to start:

  • The Kitchen
  • Heating Equipment
  • Household Appliances
  • Electronics and Outlets
  • Storage Areas

To prevent a fire from occurring in the places listed above, make sure to check them frequently to see if they are in safe working order. Make sure to keep dust out of these areas and clean them frequently. Give the appliances in your kitchen and the items listed plenty of space so they do not catch anything close to it on fire. For more detailed information on how to prevent a fire, check out this Article from The Red Cross.

You are not alone when taking back your home after a fire disaster. SERVPRO of Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson are Here to Help. For more information and immediate assistance, give us a call at (412) 474-0911 or visit our Website.

Signs of Spotting Mold in Your Downtown Pittsburgh Home

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

mold on wall Water damage in Downtown Pittsburgh homes can present some harmful consequences. One of the more dangerous ones is mold.

Water damage in Downtown Pittsburgh homes can present some harmful consequences. One of the more dangerous ones is mold. Mold can spread quickly through your Erie home or business in as little as 48 hours.

Sometimes mold in your North Shore home can be disguised and is not in plain sight. What do you do then? With some help from Moldpedia.com, here are some signs that you may have mold in your Erie home!

Odor

We all know that smell of moisture that sits a little too long. This can be one of the biggest tellers of mold in your home. Do not ignore odors even if you cannot see mold. You can call SERVPRO for a mold test today.

Signs of Water Problems

When you have a leak, flood, or any long-term moisture problem in your home, mold is almost inevitable. Some of the most common ways water problems make themselves visible include bowed walls, peeling or bubbled paint and wallpaper, discoloration on walls and ceilings, or damp surfaces. 

Downtown Pittsburgh, North Shore, and surrounding areas homeowners should act fast when they notice mold in their home. Mold spreads fast and can be destructive. Call SERVPRO Downtown Pittsburgh/Team Dobson at (412) 474-0911 or visit our Website when mold is present in your Pittsburgh home.