What To Do Before, During and After Water Damage in Langhorne

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

We cannot control Mother Nature; when she hits Langhorne area, we need to make sure we are ready to go for whatever damage she leaves behind. We can’t control the weather but we can control what we do to prepare for the before, during and after water damage.

Here are the things you should do before, during and after water damage to make the remediation process easy for you.

BEFORE:

• Make a list of all the things you own; furniture, clothing, valuables
• Fill out a Family Emergency Plan (list of all emergency contacts), or if you are a business owner/property owner - fill out our Emergency Ready Plan.
• Have a To-Go Bag that you can grab if you are rushing out in a hurry
• Be aware of what your insurance company covers when damage unexpectedly hits your home or business

DURING:

• Turn off water valves and electricity circuits 
• Call you insurance company to file a claim
• Stay away from any flood water whether it’s from a storm or a leaking pipe. You’re unfamiliar with where the water came from.
• Call your SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem, give them the insurance claim number. After communicating with the insurance company, our crews will be dispatched out to your home to assess the situation and discuss next steps.

AFTER:

• Depending on the damage will determine what happens after the damage is assessed by our professionals. We take pride in making sure the water damage remediation process is as smooth as possible for our customers. 

Flooding is the most common U.S. natural disaster, and Pennsylvania has the highest flooding rate of any state. 

If your home or business is suffering from water damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Society Hill now at 215-245-4855.

SERVPRO Host The First Responders College Bowl Game in December

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

It’s that time of year! Football season is upon us and SERVPRO hosts The First Responders College Bowl Game on December 27th in Dallas, Tx. SERVPRO takes pride in supporting their local first responders and SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem is proud to be a part of that initiative. 

SERVPRO has been sponsoring the bowl game since 2014 and has given our franchises the opportunity to honor local first responders on a national level. Rick Isaacson, CEO of SERVPRO, said, “The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is one way we celebrate these dedicated first responders and their families as the hometown heroes they are.” 

Each franchise will nominate a local first responder to be considered for special recognition at this year's game. One nominee will be selected to experience an all-expenses-paid trip to the game where they will be presented with an award. 

The SERVPRO First Responders Bowl also has a virtual Everyday Heroes Wall that honors these courageous people in our community. If you know someone who has committed to risking their lives every day, view the Everyday Heroes Wall page to submit a photo of your frontline hero!

Is Your Langhorne Business Emergency Ready?

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Hallway flooded in apartment complex

ARE YOU READY FOR WHATEVER HAPPENS?
    No one plans for disasters, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have too. Partnering with SERVPRO of LanghorneBensalem, ensures you’re ready for whatever happens to your business or commercial property. By preparing now, you demonstrate excellence in readiness planning by compiling a comprehensive information resource to use in case of a disaster.

WHY SERVPRO’S EMERGENCY READY PLAN?
     By having an immediate plan, you minimize potential business downtime when disaster strikes. Here’s why SERVPRO’s ERP is the way to go! 

1. 50+ years in disaster recovery experience
2. 2,000+ service provider locations
1. This means there is a SERVPRO in your area within a two-hour distance
3. 20,000+ SERVPRO Personnel
4. No Retainer/Upfront Costs
1. SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan is completely free to utilize. We will come out to do a free assessment of your property while storing all the property information in one place.
5. Largest Supply of Owned Equipment

     Our Ready Plan is designed to be a start-up approach that provides critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. 

If you and your business are interested in learning more about our ERP profile, please contact our offices at 215-245-4855.

6 Steps to Starting Water Damage Remediation

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

Property damage doesn’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Langhorne & Bensalem provides emergency cleanup and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. No damage is too big or small for our team! 

Why is immediate response time crucial?

The short answer: to keep an already bad situation from getting worse. In many cases an immediate response will help contain and minimize damage, thus reducing cleaning and restoration costs. The sooner the cleanup process starts, the better.

Here are a few immediate steps you can take to help speed up the process:

1. Call your insurance company as soon as possible. Once you have filed a claim with your insurance company, SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem can take it from there to determine next steps. 
2. Call SERVPRO, who provides 24 hour, 7 days a week emergency service by having a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you.
3. Document the damage by taking pictures or videos for the insurance claim. 
4. Shut off the water source so no further damage is created.
5. Turn off circuit breakers. 
6. Don’t enter affected areas! 

Use technology such as alarms and/or smart home monitoring systems that can be managed and monitored even when you aren’t home!

Pet Turtle Causes Smoke Damage in Levittown, PA

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

Pet tortoise causes smoke damage in Levittown, PA

One minute your pet tortoise is chilling and playing in their enclosure and the next minute, your entire house is damaged with smoke. Come to find out, your pet carelessly knocked over her heat lamp and caused a combustion of your bedding material. 

Our expert remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem jumped into action by doing a full clean wipe down of the entire property. 

As the odor was still present after cleaning, it was determined that the building materials outside of the framing needed to be removed and replaced completely in order to properly remove the odor. According to our professional contractors, they found the odor to be a rare type of chemical soot makeup caused by the additives in the bedding. So, further action was needed by our reconstruction team.

After the remediation phase was completed, our construction team removed all the windows, roofing and siding and the interior materials that needed to be replaced. 

Moral of the story, don’t leave your enclosed pets unattended; you never know what they could be up to! Thankfully, the family called SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem and our crew was able to reconstruct their house 'like it never even happened.'

WHY SERVPRO? | Operations Manager Sean Tells Us Why

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

In order to go into big mold restoration jobs or biohazard sites, you must have one of two things, one: a strong stomach and two: experience. Our operations manager, Sean Sormilich has both!

Sormilich has more than 10 years of experience in the industry and with SERVPRO specifically. He runs all day to day operations while assisting on larger losses, program work uploads and estimates.

Being in this type of industry for as long as Sormilich has, you can imagine he’s seen some pretty crazy losses. He has traveled all over the area for our storm team, helping people during hurricanes and flash floods. Making a difference in other’s lives from the moment they call in a panic, to the property being put back together, is what Sean loves the most about working for SERVPRO.

SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalemis equipped with a ton of experience in the cleaning and restoration industry. Along with our staff having experience, our equipment is the best in the business and is a huge advantage when it comes to picking a local restoration company.

Check Your Smoke Alarms

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

Emergencies are going to happen; that’s life. Having a plan in place is super important, especially when owning a house or business.Checking your fire alarms frequently is important to preparation.Here are somethings to keep in mind when it comes to your fire alarms:

BATTERY LIFE: According to the NFPA, you may need to change your batteries every 6 months (that’s what that little beeping noise is) and the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.
SAFETY: The placement of smoke alarms is very important. Placing them in all sleeping areas and outside bedrooms/outside of doors.
FEATURES: The NFPA suggests checking your alarm systems every month by pushing the “test” button and making sure the sound works.
BRANDS: The evolution of technology has changed our world in so many ways & smoke alarms are no exception. Google has their own brand of smoke alarms and it is listed as the most popular and reliable smoke alarm.

Have you checked your smoke alarms lately? If you’re thinking to yourself, “when was the last time we checked our smoke alarms?” then it’s time to do it!

SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plan

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem takes pride in building rapport, trust and strong relationships with property owners in their communities. This is why we are known for being, “faster to any disaster.” When disaster strikes, you better believe SERVPRO is there first to clean up the mess!

With SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan, your business will be able to minimize interruption because you’ll know what to do and what to expect if any-sized disaster strikes. This program includes, a free assessment of your facility, customized property profile, guides on how-to return to the office after a disaster, easier insurance claims process, and more.

Our crew is available 24/7 to respond to any type of emergency, small or big and we take our work very seriously. Last week, we received a call late on a Friday about a water heater leak in a vacant office space. Our crew was out there in about 20 minutes to begin soaking and drying the water. They worked throughout the weekend to make sure majority of the work was done by Monday.

If you are looking to improve your company emergency response plan or procedures, SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan is your answer!

Different Types of Smoke

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know there are different types of fire smoke, which in return, decides how you clean the damage?

There are a lot of factorsto take into consideration whendeciding on how to approach fire damage with soap and a brush.

Here are the types of smoke that can occur in any property:

• WET SMOKE: slow burning, low temp fire, most troublesome to clean, turns into foam of thick and sticky residue that latches to surfaces
• DRY SMOKE: high temp blaze, comes in a fine powder-like form. since its a fine form, it can be easily cleaned, all-purpose spray
• PROTEIN SMOKE: when food is burned, generally light in color & appearance unless comes in contact with painted surfaces or wood - becomes permanent discoloration
• PETROLEUM SMOKE: when oils are burned, very dark in color and can stain any surface or material, cleaned with agent designed to cut grease

Looking for a quote on smoke damage? Get a free inspection with us today by calling 215-245-4855!

Overheating Laptop

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Now that everyone is living the ‘working from home’ life, our devices are constantly running.

Here are some reasons why your laptop overheats:

1. The laptop is placed in a place where temperatures are high
2. The laptops’ air exhaust vents are blocked, preventing air flow & resulting in overheating
3. Software or a service could be consuming a lot of processing power
4. Dust could be clogged in the internal components, preventing clean airflow

Recently a couch became the victim of an overheated laptop. SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem responded to the aftermath of the couch blaze plus the fire being extinguished from the fire department.

According to our project manager, Eric, the fire itself was more or less contained to the couch. The vast majority of the damage to the unit is from the result of smoke and water from the fire department. The structure and contents within the unit were found to be non-salvageable.

Our team cleaned out all contents and removed all structural materials down to the framing. The next phase will be for our reconstruction team to step in to see if there needs to be any rebuild for the apartment unit.

Life Cycle of Mold

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem dressed in head to toe Tyvek suits, responded to a call of a vacant house saturated in mold. The vacant home suffered a leaking pipe in the bathroom causing moisture to build up. Because the home was vacant for two months, the mold grew throughout the entire house.

Here are 5 common places in your house where mold grows.

1. ATTIC: mold grows from the accumulation of moisture condensation in the gap between your warm house and the cold weather outside. Getting the proper insulation will reduce the amount of condensation.
2. HVAC & AIR DUCTS: A warm location with high water vapor content is particularly prone to mold buildup within the ducts. It forms the most conducive environment for mold growth.
3. INSIDE WALLS
4. BATHROOMS
5. CRAWL SPACE

SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem found out quickly that this mold grew in ALL 5 of these places and then some. Our mitigation team came in and tore down the walls to the studs. The insurance company needed to inspect the house prior to reconstruction to decide what our next steps would be in the rebuilding process.

If you suspect there is mold in your house, talking to a SERVPRO professional is the most effective course of action. Based on moisture levels in the affected area, our professionals will be able to tell you if a simple cleaning would work or if you need immediate remediation. Call us today for a quote!

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Before, water damage. After, mitigation and reconstruction

SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem is dedicated to helping companies be ready when disaster strikes, big or small. The majority of businesses that come out stronger from an emergency are the ones that pre-planned for one. SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) is designed to help you, your employees and customers peace of mind.

Why should you use SERVPRO's ERP? -

• A no-cost assessment of your facility
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
• Establishes your local SERVPRO as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information
• Easier insurance claims process

If you are interested in learning more, you can download the "SERVPRO Ready Plan" mobile app on your Android or iPhone device from the respective App Store. Or you can contact SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem to begin creating ERP's for all your properties at 215-245-4855.

How do we make 'Like it Never Even Happened' happen?

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

HOW DO WE MAKE 'LIKE IT NEVER EVEN HAPPENED' HAPPEN?      SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem is one of 2,000 SERVPRO franchises with highly trained professionals in the cleaning and restoration industry. Our crew is required to meet industry standards by completing certifications within the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, a non-profit organization.      We understand emergencies happen at any time of the day, unexpectedly and that's why we offer 24/7 emergency services, making SERVPRO faster to any disaster! We specialize in residential and commercial properties whether it's water damage, fire damage or a biohazard cleanup; we are here to help!       SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem takes pride in releasing the stress from our customers. We partner with insurance companies to deal with the claim process. From the paperwork to the completion of the restoration, we are next to you the entire process.       If you're suffering from damage due to water, fire, biohazard, sewage, etc., give us a call today at 215-245-4855!

Hurricane Season Preparation Tips

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO: Faster to Any Disaster

Hurricanes bring numerous threats to life and property each Hurricane season. With June 1st just around the corner, now is the time to prepare your home and family. Follow these Hurricane  tips:

Develop an evacuation plan. Check your county’s website to find out if you live in an evacuation zone. Select a safety destination and plan several alternate routes.

Determine your flood risk. FEMA’s Flood Map Service is a free online tool for determining your property’s flood risk by zip code or street address. 

Assemble a supply kit. Prepare enough nonperishable food, water, and medicine to last each person in your family a minimum of three days (or longer, if space allows).

Review your insurance policy. Contact your provider to check your coverage. Homeowner’s insurance does not cover flooding. Many providers offer separate flood insurance.

Prepare and strengthen your home. Simple upgrades and retrofits can be inexpensive and may help you protect your home and minimize potential damage.

SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem has helped PA homeowners recover from storm damage for more than a decade. Call the professionals at 215-245-4855 for emergency storm response services.

Ways to Secure Your Home during a Flood

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Ways to Secure Your Home during a Flood

The last thing you want to worry about when there is a flood in your area is whether or not your home will be safe. Floods can happen anywhere and at any time, so it's important to take precautions beforehand to make sure that you are fully prepared for the worst. That being said, here are some ways you can secure your house during a flood:

Grade your lawn away from the house

If you have a slope in your lawn leading up to the house then this will make it easier for water to enter. Take some time before the flood season begins and grade your yard away from your home so that there is less chance of water collecting around your foundation.

Install window well covers

Floods tend to happen quickly, which means that if there's anything obstructing windows on lower levels (like window wells) - they could prevent people inside the home from getting out safely when needed. To avoid any potential risks or problems, install window well covers that can be removed easily by anyone who needs them during an emergency situation. This way everyone stays safe while waiting for rescue teams arrive!

Create sand bags

Sandbags are great because they can be taken down and put back up again as many times as you need them, which is perfect if there's a flood season that follows multiple storms. When first approaching your home during a flood it might look like the only thing left to do is abandon ship in favor of higher ground - but by creating sand bags around entry points (like doors) you'll greatly reduce the possibility of flooding in the home when things finally start to recede.

Leave space between siding & mulch

In severe cases, flooding can even cause mulch to start decomposing which is a major risk for mold as well as other health problems. In order to avoid these risks, leave about an inch of space around the base of your house so that water has room to flow away from it instead of collecting at its foundation. This will reduce chances of damage and ensure that everyone inside remains safe during a flood!

Block All Entrances and leave no space for the water to come in

Make sure there is no space for the water to collect around your home's foundation or windows and doors. Put anything you can find to block entrances in front of all doorways. It is important that you do not allow any gaps between items as this will encourage flooding into the house when it occurs again. This also includes allowing plenty of room around windows so that they are able to open safely during an emergency situation! If possible - leave at least a foot gap from siding on the side of your house nearest where flood waters are likely to enter (like near garage doors) so that everyone inside has enough time to escape if necessary before water rises too high within the home.

Blanket all windows with plastic sheeting so the water cannot sleep in.

Once you have blocked off entrances, it is important to protect any openings that are left vulnerable by covering them up as much as possible. If there are glass windows on your home - use plastic sheeting or tarps over top of these until the flood waters subside and remove once problem has been averted! High winds can cause this material to fly away during a storm making it even more vital that everyone inside knows how best to secure their house properly before things get out of hand! Make sure all roof vents are securely covered just like other unprotected areas around your home's exterior too if at all possible because anything not protected will be especially susceptible during floods.

How to Stop Water from Entering Your House during a Flood

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

A flood is a natural disaster that can devastate your home. There are many ways to prevent this from happening, but one of the best is simply by getting a watertight door for your house. This will keep the water out and allow you to rest easy knowing that you won't be losing everything in the process. In this blog post, we will talk about how to stop water from entering your house during a flood!

Let’s take a look at some ways you can stop the water from entering inside your house.

Flood Prevention Door and Windows

The first thing you will need to do is find a door that has been specifically designed for flood prevention. These doors are designed to keep out water, but they can also be used as regular storm protection if needed! This means that it's the best of both worlds and you won't have to worry about sacrificing functionality. It should come with an airtight seal, so you can keep the water out for good. Make sure that your door is properly attached to its frame! You will need screws or bolts in order to do this. This way it won't be able to shift around with all of the pressure from the flood waters outside and end up letting them seep into your house anyway. It's also a smart idea to apply an extra layer of protection using waterproof caulk too! A little bit goes a long way here since you'll want as much resistance against water as possible.

Keep the Foundations A Little Higher When Getting the House Built

It's also important that the foundations of your home are a little higher. You will want to place them about six inches above where they would normally sit so that any water coming in can't reach up high enough to seep through anyway. This is because even if all of the other precautions were taken when building your house, this one simple step could save everything from being swept away during heavy rainfall or flooding conditions! Just remember not to make the foundations too tall either since they need certain levels of support for stability reasons as well.

Sump Pumps

The sump pumps are another thing to consider, as you will want these draining out properly so nothing gets backed up either way. If water can't escape your house, it's going to start pooling around indoors instead which could mean a whole lot more damage in some cases especially once flooding becomes involved at all. You might even consider adding an extra one or two just for good measure since heavy rainfall tends to increase over time as well no matter what kind of area you live in.

Once you have finished applying these flood prevention methods, your house should be completely sealed and ready to go!

SERVPRO: How Is SERVPRO Better Than Its Competitors In The Restoration Business

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a disaster restoration company that specializes in water damage, mold removal, fire and smoke damage, storm and natural disasters as well as general home services. We are in this business for many years now and offer our services in the Woodbury and Deptford area in New Jersey. These days you can find many different disaster restoration companies in the market so choosing one that fits your requirements can be tricky. But we are here to help you ease down your decision. Here are a few factors for why SERVPRO is better than its competitors.

Not Many Competitors Offer 24/7 Services Like SERVPRO

When it comes to the restoration business, time is crucial. SERVPRO has a fleet of crews and technicians that are standing by 24/hours a day, every single day of the year. All you have to do is call us and we will dispatch an expert within 30 minutes! Even if your home or office gets severely damaged due to some unforeseen event like fire damage, water damage etc., our experts can arrive quickly and start working on repairing and restoring your property as soon as possible so you don't miss out much work from life's routine.

Not Only Water and Fire Damage Restoration but Also Mold Removal Services Are Offered By Us

Mold growing inside homes is one problem most homeowners face but not many how hazardous it can be for human health. SERVPRO will send its experts who are trained in mold removal and the process is completed within a matter of days.

We Offer Our Services to both Commercial and Residential Clients

SERVPRO is a company that offers its services to both commercial and residential clients. Whether you want us for your office or home we will provide the best solutions! We are a versatile company that can help you with a range of different restoration services for both your home and your workplace.

If You Are Looking For Services Which Are Timely and Affordable, We Offer the Best Solutions for Your Needs

SERVPRO offers top-notch services with timely completion of work at an affordable price. Our team ensures that they use only high quality equipment for restoration making sure your home or office doesn't sustain any further damage while under our care. We offer more value through our services for the money spent.

What Are You Waiting For? Call Us Now For A FREE Estimate!

For more information or to schedule an appointment, clients can call us on the phone number and you can also request for help online. We are open 24/hours so you don't have to worry about calling us during odd hours of the night for urgent matters. Our experts will be there at your doorstep in 30 minutes flat and start working immediately! So what are you waiting for? Call SERVPRO now!

Importance of Hiring a Professional Fire Damage Restoration Company

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

When you encounter a fire at your home, the last thing on your mind should be about making repairs. First and foremost, get out of the house and leave everything to the professionals. There are too many risks involved when it comes to dealing with water damage issues after a fire has occurred. The most important reason for leaving a recently burned home in a hurry is that all sorts of toxic smoke particles can linger around in the air for days if not weeks which potentially makes breathing inside very unsafe for people without proper protection.

When faced with such a horrible tragedy, many homeowners tend to underestimate the seriousness of the situation only because they do not have prior experience in handling such problems. In reality though, restoring your burnt back to its original state requires years of knowledge and technical expertise. This is why it is always better to leave your burnt home in the hands of fire damage restoration experts rather than trying to fix things up on your own.

1- Safety hazards:

The moment a fire breaks out, the first thing you should be concerned about is your family's safety. Before anything else, make sure that every member of the household leaves the premises as quickly as possible. The agency which has come to remove hazardous smoke particles from your house should provide each individual present at the site with full face masks and clothing that covers every inch of skin before allowing them back inside for cleanup.

Trying to clean up an aftermath yourself without proper protection can lead to consequences like mold poisoning which may even spread into the blood. So it is always advisable to look for professional help when restoring a fire damaged house since it can be quite risky otherwise.

2- Time constraint:

With every passing minute, you are allowing more time for mold spores and other hazardous particles to settle down in your house. This causes the overall air quality within the premises to deteriorate with each passing moment thus making it hard for people to live in such conditions for prolonged periods of time. The longer you wait before getting rid of these smoke particles, the harder it becomes to keep breathing inside your house safe and healthy which is why hiring experts immediately after a fire occurs is crucial.

3- Cost effective process:

If you are thinking that dealing with water damage issues after a fire is cheaper on your own, you are severely mistaken. It takes years of experience to learn the tricks of this trade which is why most insurance companies will know if you have tried to restore damage on your own without any prior knowledge of restoration work. This could lead to refused insurance claims in some cases thus proving financially burdensome for you in the long run.

4- Hurry up with clean up:

Another reason why one should prefer hiring water damage experts after a fire has occurred at home is that they understand the importance of time when it comes this kind of work. If not dealt with appropriate urgency, chances are your once healthy home may never be restored back again to its original state by any other company but fire and water damage experts. There are several methods of restoring a burnt home which is why hiring the right people for this job is crucial.

5- Extensive and deep clean up:

Burnt homes require an extensive cleaning process which involves removing things like rubble, clothing, carpeting and even furniture if it has not survived the fire. All these items must be disposed of properly in order to clean up your house properly. This is where water damage restoration experts come into play since they are well aware of the process that is needed to restore a burnt home back to its original state.

Tips for Protecting Your Windows from Storm Damage

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Staying safe during a storm can be challenging, but protecting your windows from damage is an easy way to ensure that you and your family are prepared for any emergency. Storms like Hurricane Harvey create dangerous conditions – often times shattering windows and flooding homes – which is why it's important to take precautionary measures now before the next big hurricane hits. With these tips, you'll be ready when the next storm comes!

Have High Impact Glass Windows on Your Property

Having high impact glass windows on your property can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your home during a hurricane. These days, there are many window options that will hold up against powerful winds and heavy rains – even if they shatter! It's always best to invest in these types of windows before an emergency arises; this way you'll be prepared for any situation that may happen.

Get Storm Shutters

Storm shutters are an excellent way to protect your windows from damage. These easy-to-install blinds can be attached directly over any window, and they will prevent dangerous storm debris like glass shards or branches from coming through the glass.

Purchase and Apply Hurricane Window Film

While storm shutters are great for protecting your windows from debris, they won't prevent the glass itself from breaking. To ensure that no dangerous shards of glass come through during a hurricane or any other high-intensity weather event, it's smart to invest in some type of window film. Hurricane window films work by filling up shattered windows with air bubbles – thus stopping them from shattering into pieces when hit with strong winds!

Avoid Open Windows during a Storm

As tempting as it might be to watch the rain pour down outside while enjoying a cup of tea, staying away from open windows is an important step to ensuring safety during storms and hurricanes. By opening your windows before a storm hits you're allowing wind gusts and heavy rains to penetrate your home, which can cause damage to the inside.

Do Not Use Tape On Your Windows

Taping windows with masking tape is a popular method of protecting homes from storm damage; however, it's not actually safe. The glue in regular masking tape will melt during high-intensity storms and become extremely dangerous for anyone who walks by – especially children! In fact, there have been many cases where people were severely injured after walking into pieces of melted masking tape that had fallen off their own window while they weren't looking.

Use Plywood and Wooden Panels to Protect the Windows

Plywood and wooden panels are another great way to protect windows from strong winds, heavy rains, and dangerous debris. They come in a variety of different sizes and thicknesses depending on the weather event you're preparing for – so make sure you purchase them before an emergency arises!

SERVPRO Doesn’t Just help you with restoration it makes your workplace safer

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a disaster restoration company that can help you with all sorts of problems in and around your workspace. From water damage to fire damage, they’ve seen it all--and more importantly, they know how to fix it. But SERVPRO does even more than just clean up the messes; they make sure your workplace is safe for employees and clients alike. SERVPRO's services don’t just help you with cleaning and restoration process after a disaster, we actually help you create a safer environment for your employees.

Let’s You Enjoy Clean Air

Your office is a place for work, not sickness. Floods and other disasters can bring in contaminants from the air outside your building. SERVPRO has specialized equipment that ensures deep cleaning of the air so you can have clean air to breathe while we make sure everything gets cleaned up properly--and quickly!

Offers 24-Hour Emergency Services at No Extra Charge

Lucky enough to be close by when disaster strikes? That’s perfect timing—for both you and us! We provide same day service or night services if needed during our business hours. You don't need an appointment; just give us a call, and we'll take care of it as soon as possible so you can get back to business ASAP! For emergencies after hours, weekends or holidays, we offer a call back service in case the need arises. When it comes to safety, a fast response is critical when dealing with water damage and other disasters, especially if your employees are working around the clock, or you’ve got clients coming through your doors within hours of an emergency happening. SERVPRO has a streamlined process to make sure the job gets done right, and we’ll be there when you need us!

Gets Rid Of Mold Which Can Be Deadly

Have you been hearing about the dangers of mold lately? SERVPRO can help! Mold can be harmful to your employees as well as your customers. However SERVPRO can keep you safe by getting rid of your mold problem in the best way possible. Not only will we help you get rid of the mold, the results will also be long lasting.

Prevents Future Damages Caused By Disasters

The longer you wait to clean up after a disaster, the more time contaminants have to settle in. SERVPRO can do anything from water damage restoration and fire cleanup so your space is safe for employees. We can also give you effective tips that you can use in order to create a safe workplace for your employees and clients, Our tips would help prevent damage in case of any similar disaster happens again. We would also help you find other vulnerable spots that might cause damage to your commercial building through different types of disasters.

SERVPRO takes great pride in not only restoring your commercial business after a disaster but also in creating a safe workplace for your employees.

Hire SERVPRO and Get Preventive Maintenance Tips for Disasters

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Hire SERVPRO and Get Preventive Maintenance Tips for Disasters

If you are a business owner in the United States, there is a chance that your business could be affected by natural disasters more often that you would anticipate. It's better to have an emergency plan in place before it happens so you can minimize any damage and quickly get back up on your feet. SERVPRO has tips for preparing for emergencies like floods, fires, storms and more!

Prepare a Detailed Plan for Different Types of Disasters

Being prepared for different types of disasters is crucial. The SERVPRO blog has suggestions on how to be ready for these events:

- Floods - If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, make sure your business plans include this possibility. Consider having flood insurance and adjust the location of sensitive items like computers or paper files off the ground floor if possible. Having a plan will help everyone know what they need during moments when time isn't available! You can find out more about knowing what steps to take before floods here.

- Fire - Business owners should always prepare their employees about fire safety procedures like not throwing away burning cigarettes without properly extinguishing them first. Make sure all members are aware where fire escapes are located so no one gets trapped. If there is a fire, everyone must be prepared for an emergency evacuation immediately! You can find out more about how to keep your employees safe in the event of a fire here.

- Storms - Limiting damage due to storms starts with preparation and planning. Make sure you know where all company vehicles are located as well as any important equipment that could get damaged from lightning or fallen trees/branches. Know what areas may need special protection like solar panels on the roof so nothing gets overcharged during electrical storms since this can result in costly damages! For more tips read our blog post about protecting properties before storm season begins.

Prepare Your Employees to Be the Best First Responders Possible

Being able to respond quickly will go a long way in minimizing the damage and getting your employees back to work as soon as possible. Make sure each member of staff has a copy of evacuation plans for various emergencies like fire or flooding so everyone knows what they should do if it occurs. You can read more about keeping all members safe during an emergency here.

Keep a Reasonable Amount of Supplies for Emergency Situations

Have enough supplies on hand such as battery powered lights, food bars and water bottles that will last you at least 72 hours (the time it takes for professionals to get things up and running again). Keep these items out of sight but somewhere close by where anyone could access them easily in case there is no time to grab anything before evacuating the building!

Don't Forget to Have a Backup Plan In Case Things Don’t Go according To Plan

After preparing employees and the building, don't forget to plan for any unexpected situations that could happen during an emergency. You never know when your backup power may go out or if flooding will damage some of the equipment you need! Have any necessary items on hand so no matter what happens there is still a way to get back up and running without any delays!

Always Be Ready For the Unexpected

You should always be ready and prepared for the unexpected. Preparation for any emergency is the key to a quick recovery process. By having a plan in place, you'll be able to get back up and running again faster by limiting damages as much as possible!

Why You Should Hire SERVPRO for Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most important things you can do to maintain a clean and safe environment for your family is to have professional carpet and upholstery cleaning done on a regular basis. The experts at SERVPRO know that these types of services can be expensive, which is why they offer affordable rates. In addition to having experienced professionals come out and do the work, they also take care of all the heavy lifting! Instead of hiring out this type of job yourself or paying someone else to do it, contact SERVPRO today for more information about their services.

Reasons You Should Hire SERVPRO for Carpet Cleaning

Let’s take a look at some of the reasons of why hiring a professional carpet cleaning company life SERVPRO can do wonders for you.

It Can Help You Remove Hidden Allergens and Bacteria from Your Carpet

One of the biggest reasons for having your carpet professionally cleaned is that it can help remove bacteria and allergens from deep within. Allergies are a common problem, especially during certain times of the year when pollen levels rise or in areas where there is an abundance of trees and plants to attract small insects. Bacteria typically thrives in damp environments such as carpets so by hiring SERVPRO they will use special equipment to extract all moisture which also kills any existing germs at their root source.

Your Carpet Will Be Smelling Fresh and Clean Longer

Over time dirt, dust, dander and other particles get trapped down into your pile - even if you vacuum regularly! So how often should you have this done? Usually every 12 to 18 months is the best time to have your carpets cleaned. SERVPRO will use a special type of cleaning solution so they can remove stubborn stains and deep down dirt, meaning it's more effective than using just water alone.

You Will Be Assured That the Job Is Being Done Professionally

There are many companies that offer carpet cleaning services out there but not all of them have had proper training or experience doing this work. This means some may even cause more harm than good if they aren't careful! By hiring SERVPRO you know their technicians undergo extensive training with an industry leader in order to make sure the job is done properly every single time -up to IICRC standards. They also take care of all heavy lifting for you which is another bonus!

Professional Carpet Cleaning Can Increase the Life of Your Carpet

By having SERVPRO come in and give your carpet a deep clean you will ensure that the fibers on your carpets are free of dirt and dust. This means they won't wear down as quickly over time, which is what causes them to look old or need replacing before their time. You can also reduce how frequently you need to replace them by having this done every 12-18 months!

When it comes to hiring someone for professional cleaning services in Woodbury there's only one company to choose- SERVPRO!

How to Pick a Water Damage Restoration Company

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Are you looking for a water damage restoration company? If so, then this blog post is for you! There are many factors to consider when hiring a water damage restoration company. Understanding these questions before making your decision will ensure that the right choice is made and all of your needs are met. Check out our helpful tips below to find out more about what questions to ask and how to make an informed decision on which company to hire.

See If the Company is certified

Get a quote from the company that you have chosen. Check their license number to ensure they have insurance coverage in case something goes wrong during restoration services. If you can’t get an estimate on site then ask for one over the phone or email before hiring them so that there will be no surprise fees at the end of it all! Be sure to do some research into every company by looking up their reviews (be wary of Yelp). Read consumer reports online where other people who were satisfied with these companies leave feedback about their experiences. The more information out there means better chances of finding someone reliable!  

Check the online reviews

See what other people are saying about the company. If you’re not sure who to hire, check out the reviews and ratings of each company. This can help guide your decision when trying to find a water damage restoration company in your area! The more positive feedback that is found online about the business means it will be much easier for you to choose them. You should always try and set up an appointment with these companies so they can give you better estimates on how long it will take to get this task done as well as their rates. If possible try and do some research into what other people have said beforehand too because then there won't be any surprises at the end of this process!

Check Out Their Reputation

It is important that we know where our money goes after hiring someone. We can look up the company's license number to see if they are insured. If you aren't able to get an estimate on site, ask for one over email or phone before hiring them so that there will be no surprise fees at the end of it all! Do some research into every company by looking up their reviews (be wary of Yelp). You should also check out consumer reports online where other people who were satisfied with these companies leave feedback about their experiences. The more information out there means better chances of finding someone reliable!

Check if they have insurance coverage in case something goes wrong during restoration services

See if the company is insured so in case there is any problem during the restoration process the insurance can take care of it. This is why it is very important to always hire an insured damage restoration company.

How Can SERVPRO Cleaning Services Help Your Business Become More Efficient

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Every business is looking for ways to become more efficient. It's a good idea to take care of the little details so that you can spend your time on what matters most: running and growing your business! One way to help with this is by outsourcing certain services, such as cleaning - for example, SERVPRO Cleaning Services. We offer many different cleaning services tailored to meet the needs of any business, from janitorial services and carpet cleaners to upholstery cleaning or window washing. But can such services help your business become more efficient? Well, the answer is actually YES! They can.

A Cleaner Workplace Will Make Employees More Productive

A clean and well-maintained work environment is proven to boost morale and keep employees happy, which leads them to be more productive. Employees will feel better about coming into the office if their desks are tidy and they don't have to worry about clogged drains or dirty bathrooms!

A Cleaner Workplace Will Make Your Business Look More Professional

All of your customers meet you at your place of business - whether it's a restaurant, retail store, hotel, etc. You want those people who come in contact with your company every day (your customer service staff) as well as potential new customers (those visiting for the first time), to experience an inviting atmosphere that makes a good impression on them. From receptionists greeting guests with a smile and a 'how may we help you?' to having clean carpets, updated bathrooms and tidy work spaces.

It Will Increase the Retention Rate of the Employees

When employees have to work in a less-than-sanitary environment, they're more likely to get sick and take off from work. Compared with companies that invest in services such as janitorial or floor cleaning, the ones who don't are going to lose their best people much faster than those who do. Employees want to feel appreciated by employers! By offering them a clean workspace where they can focus on what's important without worrying about being distracted by dirty bathrooms or cluttered desks is one way of showing your appreciation for them.

Your Employees Will Stay Healthy So There Will Be Low Absentees

When employees stay healthy and come to work, they're more productive. By providing them with a clean workspace that is free of hazardous germs like viruses or bacteria found on dirty floors and doorknobs as well as unhygienic bathrooms where they can stop by after lunch without worrying about catching the stomach flu from their co-workers, you'll keep your best people happy and coming back day in and day out!

More Clients Will Be Attracted To Your Business

A professional-looking office that's free of clutter and is kept in good condition will make your business more pleasant for employees, which makes it a comfortable environment to work in. A clean workspace with updated fixtures helps customers feel welcome, so they'll be happier about coming back if they have had positive experiences previously. When you combine all these benefits together, what do you get? An efficient workplace that boosts morale throughout the company as well as being presentable to potential new clients!

How to Prevent Mold at Your Work Place

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can be a big problem in the workplace. It is important to take preventative measures so that your employees are able to work in an environment where they are happy and healthy. The following article will give you some tips on how to keep mold at bay, no matter what type of business you have!

Keep Humidity Levels Low

Keep the humidity levels in your office at a relatively low level. This can be done by using an air conditioner or fan to keep the room cool and dry, especially during humid seasons like summertime. Since mold grows best in damp environments, keeping things as dry as possible will help you prevent it from growing! Ensure that employees do not use too many ice machines. These machines are notorious for producing excessive moisture which can lead to water damage later on down the line if employees don't play their part in helping out with lowering humidity.

Use Wall Paint Treated With Mold Inhibitors

Using a wall paint that is treated with mold inhibitors can help you in your fight against this nasty stuff. These paints, which often come in green and white colors, are resistant to fungi and moisture so will not hold onto it for too long when humidity levels go up.

Ventilate the Room Well During Humid Seasons

Make sure that there are windows or another way of ventilating areas where employees work during humid seasons like summer time. This allows fresh air into the room and reduces any chance of harmful gases such as methane building up due to excessive dampness. Employees should be reminded regularly about keeping their workspace clean by removing items from shelves before cleaning them thoroughly at least once per week (or more if needed).

Use Mold Inhibitor Cleaning Products for Every Day Cleaning of the Workplace

If the janitorial staff notices any mold or mildew on surfaces, they should use a cleanser with mold inhibitors in it. These can be found at most stores and come in the form of sprays and wipes. They are great for everyday cleaning since you do not have to wait too long before being able to continue using them - unlike other types of paint that require weeks upon weeks before being usable again!

Hire a Professional to Get Rid Of Mold and Prevent Any Future Mold Problems

If you really can't get rid of the mold in your office, or if it keeps coming back again and again despite preventative measures taken by employees, then consider hiring a professional to take care of things. Mold problems like this are serious business that should not be dealt with lightly! If there is any chance that health risks may come about due to exposure to toxic spores over time because the problem was left untreated, then prioritizing finding professionals who will do their job perfectly is essential. This article has given you some great tips on how to keep your work place safe from harmful molds - so make sure you put them into practice today!

How to Protect Your Commercial Building from Fire Damage

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

It's a sad fact, but fire is one of the most common causes for property damage. Whether you own a commercial building or are looking to purchase one, it's important to know how to protect your investment from this all-too-common risk! Here are some tips on how you can keep your commercial building safe and secure against fire damage.

1) Install smoke alarms in each room that has an exit door

Whether your commercial building has a history of fire damage or not, it is probably best to install smoke alarms throughout the entire structure. This will give everyone in the building time to evacuate safely before an inferno breaks out and reduces everything to ashes!

2) Use fire resistant materials for curtains and upholstery

Some materials are more flammable than others. Knowing which ones to use can be a lifesaver! For example, if you have heavy curtains or upholstery in your commercial building that catch fire easily, it would probably be best to replace them with something less combustible.

3) Keep cooking grease away from stove tops

This is especially important if you own a restaurant or cafe! Cooking grease, while it can be great for frying up all kinds of delicious foods, should never come into contact with open flames. This could lead to an explosion and extensive fire damage (and even the loss of lives!).

Be sure that your commercial stove tops are properly vented and that all of the grease traps are working properly. This will keep your commercial building safe from both fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.

4) Get an inspection done from relevant services to identify potential fire hazards and eliminate them

For example, there might be a faulty wire in your commercial building that is getting warmer and warmer until it finally sparks an electrical fire. Getting this fixed before the problem gets out of hand will keep you from losing everything to flames! An experienced inspector can also look at other potential sources for fires such as overloaded circuits or cluttered storage spaces with paper.

5) Keep the server room cool

If your commercial building is hosting a server room, it's important to keep the temperature of the room cool. Not only will this prevent damage from overheating and malfunctioning servers, but also fire! Servers can be damaged by heat as well as power surges. Keeping them in a comfortable temperature range helps ensure they operate properly and without issues for longer periods of time.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your commercial building is well protected against fire damage! These ideas are just the beginning too; there's always more to learn when it comes to restoration for your commercial building after a fire or any disaster for that matter. SERVPRO can help you with the restoration process after your commercial building has been struck with fire damage.

How to Respond To the Damage Caused By a Storm to Your Commercial Building

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

A storm can cause a lot of damage to your commercial building. It's important to take care of the problem quickly, before it becomes too big and expensive. The aftermath may seem very daunting. So it is important to understand how to respond when you have been hit by a storm and what steps you need to take in order to get back on your feet. If you're not sure where to start, we've got some tips that will help!

Contact Your Insurance Company

Call Your Insurance Company Immediately! You've probably heard this before, but it's the most important step to take when you have been struck by a storm. If your building is hit by an unexpected weather-related event such as hail or wind damage and there was no warning (such as a hurricane), then you may be able to file for damages with your insurance company. Be sure that any contractors who come out to look at the property will also contact the insurance company in order to make sure everything gets taken care of quickly.

Check For Leaks and Other Damage to the Roof before It Gets Worse

Many times roofing problems are not detected right away because they go unnoticed until further water leaks occur on different levels of the commercial building which can be very dangerous. So, if you notice that there is water leaking inside the building or it smells like mold, then you'll need to get up on your roof and check for damage right away! If necessary, call a contractor immediately in order to help take care of this problem before things get worse.

Inspect the Damage Done To the Building

Once you've inspected your roof to make sure that there was no damage done, then it's important to take a good look at the exterior of the commercial building. If any windows or walls were damaged by hail or wind and they will need repair, be sure to document this before fixing anything so that later on if something happens with an insurance claim you'll have some solid evidence about what happened during the storm! This is also very helpful because when you call out for scaffolding rental companies in order to get new glass installed (for example), having pictures will make finding one much easier after such a major event like a storm.

Hire a Storm Damage Restoration Service like SERVPRO

If you need help with the damage caused by water leaks, mold removal, or cleanup of your commercial building after something like a storm has hit it, then call in professional restoration services to take care of everything. They can also work alongside insurance companies which are always good for speedy repairs without having any issues!

Get Back To Business

Now that you know what to do in the aftermath of a storm, it's time to get back up on your feet and continue running your business.

Identifying the Damages in Your Commercial Building and Determining a Restoration Plan

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

The damages done to your commercial building are not always easy to identify. There are many factors that can contribute to the severity of a damage, so it is important you have one or two experienced professionals take a look at it before determining whether or not restoration needs to be planned. In this blog post, we will discuss how you can identify the damages in your building and determine if they need professional help!

Identify The Damage By Taking A Walk Around Your Property And Evaluating Exterior Elements:

Examine windows for signs of breakage and water infiltration. If there's anything suspicious about them—even small things like cracks—it could mean bigger issues inside the structure leading up to compromised insulation and mold growth. Check out all sides of the building for structural damage that may be compromising its integrity. You can also look at trees and utility poles around your property to determine if they might have caused any of the damages, or if there is new construction nearby which could be affecting it.

Unfortunately, not all types of commercial buildings are created equally when it comes to identifying damages on their exterior! If you own a manufactured home in particular, some issues—like water infiltration—can go undetected after just one rainfall because of how quickly our weather changes here in Oregon. This makes regular inspections even more important than before so that these kinds of problems don't become major concerns down the road!

If you're unsure what kind of professional help you need to undertake restoration efforts, call an expert to take a look at the building. They will be able to identify damages and work out an appropriate restoration plan for your business!

Hire a Professional Restoration Service

The best way to go about restoration is to hire a professional restoration service like SERVPRO. They will be able to not only identify the damages, but also help you plan for restoration efforts like cleaning up mold and water damage. If there's any structural damage that needs to be repaired, they can also help you with that!

A professional service will always make a plan on how they want to go about the restoration process so you know when you entire building will be ready for people to start returning to work. Working with a professional is the best way to ensure you are restoring your building back to its pre-damaged state safely.

Once the restoration has been done it is important to be vigilant and have preventive measure in place that may protect your commercial building from any sort of damage in the future. Take care of any damages when they occur, and do not let them build up! A little damage can lead into more issues that will require much larger restoration efforts if left alone for too long. Schedule regular inspections and work with professionals who know how to properly identify all types of commercial property damages!

Does Fire Restoration Actually Work?

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

It's a scary thought to have your home or office burn down. It is even scarier when you find out that the fire was caused by something as simple as an electrical wire being too close to combustible materials. The reality is, however, that it can be devastating for buildings and contents alike. But do not fear! There are ways to get things back up and running again after a fire has happened.

Can Fire Damage Restoration Companies Actually Restore Your Goods?

The reality is that there are many different degrees of fire damage. Everything from a scorch to an actual burn can make items unusable or even irreparable. The restoration company you work with should be able to give you an accurate estimate on the costs and time it will take for each individual piece after they have made their initial assessment. This way, if your things cannot be restored then at least you know up front rather than waiting weeks upon months only to find out that nothing can be done!

Does Restoration Work Change Depending On What Was Destroyed?

Yes, in fact it does change depending on what was destroyed by the fire. Different types of materials require different kinds of treatments because some elements may not react well together. For example, if your things are made of metal then you need to make sure that the restoration company has experience in dealing with this material. If they do not, then it can cause further damage and be more costly than it needs to be!

What to Do After a Fire?

If there is anything at all that was destroyed by fire or heat damages don't try cleaning up yourself no matter how much you may want too. You could actually end up doing worse harm when trying to clean something like a television screen because chemicals on your cloth might react even more aggressively than the flames did originally. This way you will know exactly what kind of treatment each individual damaged item requires which also means lower costs for every single one of them!

Is There Anything I Can Do To Help The Restoration Process?

No matter how much you may want to help in the restoration process, do not try and fix anything on your own. This is especially true when it comes to electrical wiring because this can be just as dangerous for someone attempting a repair than it was before the fire even happened! Let professionals handle all of that so that they know what needs done and also if there is any chance of danger involved with an item or room itself.

Can You Really Restore Things After A Fire Damage?

Yes, companies like ours specialize in making sure everything returns back to normal after such a disaster strikes. So whether you need new drywall put up or appliances restored we have got professional technicians who will take care of it all for you. All of our workers are fully insured and licensed so that we can ensure your safety as well as the quality of materials used in making sure everything looks just like new!

Eliminate Odor after a Fire: Why Hiring A Professional Service Is Important

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you have just experienced a fire in your home, then the last thing on your mind is what to do about the terrible odor that lingers. It's important to get professional services for odor removal after a fire because it can affect how much insurance will pay out after an incident like this. By using these steps below, you'll be able to quickly and easily eliminate odors from smoke or other smells left behind by fires without having to spend money for costly services.

Use a Scented Cleaning Solution

A scented cleaning solution will mask the smell of smoke or other smells left behind. The smoke can stick to almost all items in the house which will keep the odor lingering on. So in order to get completely get rid of the odor, you need to clean all things in your house with a scented solution. You can make this solution at home as well using soap, water and vinegar.

Give it Time to Air Out

Leaving windows open, using fans and opening up doors for thorough ventilation can help get rid of odors in a short amount of time? You want to avoid cooking or smoking during this process as these activities may only worsen the situation by adding new smells into your home that are even worse than what you're trying to eliminate!

Use Odor Eliminating Pouches

There's also an option available if you don't have enough time for ventilation - place odor eliminating pouches around rooms with lingering odors. These should be replaced every couple weeks so they working effectively at getting rid of the smell.

Use Air Freshener

There are also air fresheners available that can help get rid of the smell in a short amount of time. These come in many different

Five Steps to Fire Restoration the Best Practices

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Fire restoration is a process that can take weeks or months to complete. That's why it's important to have the right fire restoration professionals on your side from the beginning of the process. Here are five steps for getting started with fire restoration

1. Assess any damages before moving anything, and then contact a professional team to help you remove debris and secure damaged materials.

 The first step is to assess the damage caused by the fire. You may be tempted to try and move or clean up damaged items yourself, but this can damage even more of your property. The right restoration professionals know how to move things safely, and they will have the proper equipment.

2. Remove smoke damage by cleaning walls, ceilings, furniture, carpets, drapes and other items using specialized products designed for this purpose.

 The second step in fire restoration is removing smoke damage. This can be done by using a water-based cleaner to remove soot from walls, ceilings and any other surrounding surfaces. You must also clean all fabrics thoroughly, including furniture, carpets and curtains.

3. Clean out all vents and ducts in your home or business as soon as possible after a fire has occurred

 The third step in fire restoration is to clean all vents and ducts. If you leave this for too long, it can cause more damage to your property. Cleaning out these areas will ensure that smoke does not continue to spread throughout the home or business.

4. Take care of any lingering odors with an air purification system or by opening windows daily to get fresh air

 Once you have addressed all smoke damage, the last step in fire restoration is to address any lingering odors. This can be done with an air purification system or by opening windows regularly so that fresh air flows through your home or business for at least a few months after the fire occurred.

5. Keep your home or business dry by using fans, dehumidifiers and other systems to reduce humidity

 The final step in fire restoration is to keep your home or business dry at all times. This can be done by using fans, dehumidifiers and other equipment that reduces humidity levels in the air. However, you should only use these when necessary since they may damage wood floors if used too often.

You need to hire a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO to help you with the restoration process. We are fully equipped to take care of your fire damage restoration need. A professional company like SERVPRO can assess the damage, remove smoke and other odors, clean vents/ducts, repair any fire or water damage to your home or business, take care of lingering odors with an air purification system or by opening windows for fresh air.

5 Ways to Protect Your Belongings during a Storm

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

We've all been there. You're sitting in your home, anxiously waiting to hear if the storm that is heading towards you will be a Category 2 or 3. It's not until hours later when it has passed do you go outside to survey the damage. If you were lucky, only some of your property was damaged and everything else was still intact; but if you weren't so lucky, then this article may help stop future disasters from happening again! Here are five ways to protect your belongings during a storm.

Store important documents In a Safe Place

One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your belongings during the storm is to place them in a safe place. This will not just save your belongings from getting damaged but it will also be great if you have to rush and evacuate due to the storm warning. A great option for this would be an Under Bed Safe, which you can easily store underneath any bed or heavy piece of furniture so that no one will ever think twice about it being there. This type of safe has been known not only to lock away documents but also jewelry, money, cameras, laptops, etc.

Place any items that can be blown away, such as plants or decorations, inside of the house

If you have any items in your yard that are not too heavy, then it is best to bring them inside the house or into a garage. This includes plants, decorations, and furniture. It may be fine for these types of objects to get damaged during just one storm but if they're outside when multiple storms happen back-to-back then there's no telling how much damage can occur!

Keep appliances unplugged

If you have any appliances that are not in use, then it is best to unplug them during the storm. If they get damaged due to power surges caused by lightning or rain/snow entering through poorly-sealed doors and windows, then this can become very costly! It's also a good idea to keep all of your electronics plugged into surge protectors so that if there does happen to be an electrical problem, these items will still remain safe (just make sure they're turned off).

Make sure you have multiple flashlights/lanterns around for when there is no power available due to storms which happen often lately

This is an essential item to have in any house, especially if you live in a rural area. There are many times where the power goes out for days at a time due to storms and it can be very annoying when there's no light or heat available! To solve this problem, make sure that you always keep flashlights/lanterns with candles on hand so that you won't ever have to worry about feeling completely powerless during a storm again.

Park the Car inside the Garage So the Storm Does Not Damage It

This is a relatively small but very effective way to protect your car from damages caused by the storm. If you live in an area that gets heavy storms then it might be best just to always park inside of your garage during such times so that there will no longer be any chance of water, hail, and/or fallen branches damaging it!

These are some great ways for how to care for your belongings during a storm which should hopefully stop future disasters from happening again.

How to Fix Your Roof after a Storm

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

It's not often that disaster strikes but when it does, you want to make sure you are doing everything correctly, from start to finish. When the roof has been severely damaged by wind or hail, it can be one of the more costly repairs on your home. The main concern during this time period is safety from falling objects such as tree branches or other debris. This article is a guide for homeowners on what they should do after a storm has passed and left its wake of devastation in the form of shingles, shingles debris, and leaks that have sprung into their ceilings due to storm damage.

Now what? Whether you had a little damage or a lot of damage, a quick response is very important if you want to save your roof and reduce the potential for more leakage.

First make sure that it is safe to enter your home. If there are any toppled trees or limbs, remove those before entering the house. Once inside, if there is water in your ceilings and/or walls then it is time to call a professional roofer.

For minor damages like blocked gutters or missing shingles caused by wind gusts, wait until it stops raining and immediately check your roof with binoculars for any immediate danger of further damage such as loose tiles or hanging parts of the structure. If you have a partial shingle loss, be sure to nail down the tiles that are still attached. If your roof is in need of replacement, call for an estimate before performing any repairs or replacements yourself.

Soaking up water - Blocked gutters are the main cause of water damage when there is heavy rain over time

Removing debris - If you come across any loose tiles caused by high winds then remove them and nail down any metal ridge caps that might have popped out of place during the storm

Checking your shingles - Check with binoculars for blown off parts of the structure including missing shingles and loose tiles

Assessing the damage - Generally speaking, if there has been any shingle loss then it is time to call a professional roofer for an estimate. A restoration company will be able to tell you if you need to get a new roof or just get the one you already have restored. The restoration services like SERVPRO will tell it to you how it is. If we feel that the roof may not stand another storm we would recommend getting a new roof otherwise we will restore it for you.

Making temporary repairs for leaks in between rafters until the restoration company arrives. It is important to hire a storm damage restoration company if you want to get your roof in good condition. Don’t forget to contact your insurance company as well so you don’t have to pay much for the restoration or repair of the roof.

The Top 5 Reasons Why Insurance Companies Deny Your Claim for Storm Damage

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

As a homeowner, you assume that your home is covered by insurance against a variety of threats and losses. Whether it's the threat of fire, water damage from a busted pipe or even theft, you hope insurance will be there for you when disaster strikes. But what happens if your insurer refuses to pay for damages because of an exclusion in the policy? Just because you don't have clear title to your property doesn't mean it can't be insured. In many cases, insurers will cover these types of conditions as long as the buyers have been made aware before closing on the house.

When you’re foreclosed on and Still Owe Money to the Lender

If you're foreclosed on and still owe money to a lender who holds a lien on your property, most policies won't cover damage to the structure. Before you buy a foreclosed house, get advice from your insurance agent about what types of coverage are available for you before buying it.

There can be several reasons for why insurance companies may deny your claim. Here are the top five reasons why an insurer may deny your claim for damages caused by a storm or other casualty:

1. You didn't have sufficient homeowners' insurance coverage in place at the time of loss.
2. You don't have clear title to your property can be another reason for why your insurance company may deny your claim.
3. You didn't follow the proper procedure for reporting a loss, such as notifying your agent or insurer immediately after a storm hits.
4. The damage occurred due to neglect on your part, such as failure to cut down a tree that threatens your house's structural integrity.
5. The damage was caused by an excluded peril, such as faulty repair work done on your home following a prior loss.

As frustrating as it can be insurers refuse to pay for damages, it's important to remember that their denial doesn't mean the damage didn't occur. It simply means that you couldn't prove, with your policy in place, that they were obligated to cover the loss. This is why it is very important to take photographs of your house when you know that there is a storm coming

When You Can Sue Your Insurance Company for Denial of Coverage

If your insurance company denies coverage for storm damage or any other kind of disaster, you may have recourse through state law. Check with a local attorney about whether you can file a claim based on breach of contract if the insurer refuses to pay out on your homeowners' insurance policy. Also contact your state department of insurance for more information about what remedies are available under the law if an insurer denies your claim.  

6 Simple Ways to Assess Total Damage after a Storm

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

6 Simple Ways to Assess Total Damage after a Storm

When a storm hits your property, it can be difficult to assess the total damage. You want to know what needs repairing and how much it will cost you. The following is a list of 6 simple ways that you can assess the damage from a storm:

1) Check for structural integrity

Does your building have any cracks in the foundation or leaking pipes? If so, then there may be more extensive repairs needed. It is very important to check the damage to the structure for timely repairs and restoration. If you don’t check the building for any damages then it can create a very dangerous living environment.

2) Check for water damage

Look around your house at all of the wet surfaces and make sure that no mold has grown anywhere yet. If you see any signs of mold growth, then this could lead to further complications down the road with respiratory illnesses and allergies.

3) Take pictures

One of the most important steps in assessing a storm's damage is to take pictures. It will help with getting insurance claims and also reminds you of what needs repairing or replaced.

4) Check for Damages to the Doors and Windows

Are your windows loose or cracked? How about your doors, are they damaged too? Take a special look at the glass windows. Sometimes even the protective wooden panels aren’t enough to save the windows from breaking.

5) Check the Utilities, Gas lines and Electricity Lines

If you smell gas, turn off your appliances and open doors and windows. Get outside immediately! If there is a power outage or the electricity lines have been damaged then this will need to be addressed as soon as possible so that they do not catch fire. It can also cause serious damage to any electronic devices in your home which you may want to address quickly before more problems arise down the road.

6) Take an Inspection Round outside Your House

Inspect things outside the house including your car, trees, lawn and most importantly your house's roof. Roof of a house is the most vulnerable thing during a storm. Strong storms can break off shingles and expose your roof to a lot of serious damage. You may need to replace your roof if it is very damaged. If you find any tree that is in a bad condition and may fall down any minute then you need to get away from the house and call a tree maintenance company as soon as possible.

It is very important to assess the total damage after a storm. There are many things that you can do at home before calling in an expert. By taking pictures, checking for water damage and structural integrity, as well as assessing the damages to doors and windows you will be able to figure out what needs repaired quickly. Then call up someone with experience when it comes time for more extensive repairs!

Can You Do DIY Home Restoration after a Storm?

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

Can You Do DIY Home Restoration after a Storm?

If you are living in a house that gets damaged because of a storm, or something similar to it, do not be alarmed. Whether someone else is doing the repairs for you or you are doing them yourself, there are things to keep in mind. The tips will help make your home restoration go smoother and more quickly.

Steps for DIY Home Restoration:

1.) Consider an insurance policy if one has not been obtained already. If there is damage, this should help out with costs involved with the restoration process.

2.) Before beginning any kind of repair work always wear protective gear including safety goggles and gloves so that no dust particles get into your eyes or worse enter your body through open cuts on hands etc. If possible wear breathing masks as well.

3.) Start by removing furniture if it had not already been done. If there is damage on the floor remove it before putting the furniture back in its place.

4.) Next, cover all windows and exterior doors with plastic sheeting. This will keep any moisture from entering your home which could cause mold or mildew to begin growing in places that were not damaged such as under carpets and sinks.

5.) After everything has been covered then use a vacuum cleaner to clean up any debris left behind after cleaning up water stains etc...The next step would be to remove any wet items such as clothes, bedding and blankets and run them through a washing machine several times so that no mold grows on them while they are stored away.

6.) You should look to see if the roof has been damaged and determine whether or not you want to fix it yourself or have someone who knows more about roofs do the work for you. It is possible to patch up a roof, but this does depend on where the damage is and how big it is because sometimes roofs will need to be replaced all together due to too much damage.

7.) If everything has dried out enough so that mold will not begin growing, take out all floor boards in affected areas so that they can be sanded down and treated with fungicide before replacing them back into place. Then cover area around walls with plastic sheeting again to keep dust from entering other areas of the house while new boards are being put back into place.

8.) Now that everything has been repaired it is time to start cleaning again and get rid of any lingering moisture in carpets and under sinks by using a dehumidifier.

So all of this can be done by you however if you want an ideal restoration process then it is better to hire a storm damage restoration service. A professional storm damage restoration service can do wonders for you and make your house look as good as new.

Choosing the Right Storm Damage Restoration Company

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

Choosing the Right Storm Damage Restoration Company

In the aftermath of a tornado, hurricane or other major storm, one of the most important tasks facing homeowners is finding a reputable and reliable emergency restoration contractor to get the job done.

A number of factors need to be considered in order to choose a company that can do an effective job without taking advantage of stressed-out clients who are not thinking clearly during a disaster.

Preparation:

It's important for people to plan ahead and get several estimates from local companies before a major storm hits. Then, homeowners should get references and check them so they know who they can trust when an emergency happens.

The business of restoring homes hit by disasters such as tornadoes is highly competitive. That's why unscrupulous restoration contractors might cut corners or otherwise take advantage of their clients in the aftermath of a disaster. Getting multiple bids beforehand will help a homeowner avoid a dishonest company that focuses on profits over quality workmanship. If there isn't time to gather several proposals, it's wise to at least ask neighbors or friends for referrals rather than going with the first contractor who comes knocking on the door during a crisis situation.

Proper Licensing

Typically, the most effective way to find a quality restoration contractor is by word-of-mouth from satisfied clients. It's wise to ask the company for references and speak with those they have worked for in the past.

In addition, homeowners should check whether they are properly licensed, bonded and insured. There might be a cost associated with this process but it could provide a degree of protection against fraud or shoddy workmanship if something goes wrong. For example, insurance companies typically will not pay out claims unless a restoration company is properly licensed and insured as required by law in that area. If an insurer refuses to pay up when problems arise after work has been done, having licenses and insurance will help make sure contractors do everything possible to make things right.

Experience of the Storm Damage Restoration Company:

A homeowner should also consider the number of years a restoration company has been in business. An established and respected organization is more likely to do quality work than a fly-by-night outfit that might not be around after the storm damage is repaired.

Time the Restoration Company Devotes To Your Property

The amount of time an emergency contractor devotes to customer satisfaction is another important factor, particularly with companies that often deal with crisis situations such as hurricanes and tornadoes. Satisfied clients can provide invaluable referrals, which usually helps generate new business opportunities.

It's wise to avoid restoration companies that pressure their customers into signing contracts on the spot during a time of stress and chaos. A responsible company will allow home and property owner’s sufficient time to review all terms and conditions before making any decisions about hiring them.

A written contract should include an itemized list of all work to be done, along with the estimated cost. It's in a homeowner's best interest to make sure the agreement also covers any additional expenses in case repairs are needed later on that might not have been foreseen by the restoration company or homeowner at the time of signing.

5 Ways to Protect Your Belongings during a Storm

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

5 Ways to Protect Your Belongings during a Storm

We've all been there. You're sitting in your home, anxiously waiting to hear if the storm that is heading towards you will be a Category 2 or 3. It's not until hours later when it has passed do you go outside to survey the damage. If you were lucky, only some of your property was damaged and everything else was still intact; but if you weren't so lucky, then this article may help stop future disasters from happening again! Here are five ways to protect your belongings during a storm.

Store important documents In a Safe Place

One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your belongings during the storm is to place them in a safe place. This will not just save your belongings from getting damaged but it will also be great if you have to rush and evacuate due to the storm warning. A great option for this would be an Under Bed Safe, which you can easily store underneath any bed or heavy piece of furniture so that no one will ever think twice about it being there. This type of safe has been known not only to lock away documents but also jewelry, money, cameras, laptops, etc.

Place any items that can be blown away, such as plants or decorations, inside of the house

If you have any items in your yard that are not too heavy, then it is best to bring them inside the house or into a garage. This includes plants, decorations, and furniture. It may be fine for these types of objects to get damaged during just one storm but if they're outside when multiple storms happen back-to-back then there's no telling how much damage can occur!

Keep appliances unplugged

If you have any appliances that are not in use, then it is best to unplug them during the storm. If they get damaged due to power surges caused by lightning or rain/snow entering through poorly-sealed doors and windows, then this can become very costly! It's also a good idea to keep all of your electronics plugged into surge protectors so that if there does happen to be an electrical problem, these items will still remain safe (just make sure they're turned off).

Make sure you have multiple flashlights/lanterns around for when there is no power available due to storms which happen often lately

This is an essential item to have in any house, especially if you live in a rural area. There are many times where the power goes out for days at a time due to storms and it can be very annoying when there's no light or heat available! To solve this problem, make sure that you always keep flashlights/lanterns with candles on hand so that you won't ever have to worry about feeling completely powerless during a storm again.

Park the Car inside the Garage So the Storm Does Not Damage It

This is a relatively small but very effective way to protect your car from damages caused by the storm. If you live in an area that gets heavy storms then it might be best just to always park inside of your garage during such times so that there will no longer be any chance of water, hail, and/or fallen branches damaging it!

These are some great ways for how to care for your belongings during a storm which should hopefully stop future disasters from happening again.

How to Save Your Belongings from Water Damage

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

How to Save Your Belongings from Water Damage

Water damage can be a really scary thing to experience. What do you do if your belongings get wet and moldy? The answer is simple: don't panic! We have put together this blog post to help give you some tips and tricks for saving your possessions from water damage. Read on for more information about what to do in the event of a flood, how to prevent water damage, and more.

Keep Your Valuable at a High Point during a Flood

During a flood, the first thing you are likely to think about is what valuables can be saved. If there isn't an immediate threat of your home being flooded, try moving them to higher points in order to keep them safe from water damage. The main things that should be moved would be anything digital or electronic-based because these could easily become destroyed by moisture in the air. You also want to make sure any important documents and photos are kept out of harm's way since they contain sensitive information which needs protecting! Keeping items at high points will help ensure they stay dry during a flood so don't forget this step if one becomes imminent!

Seal Your Belongings in Zip lock Bags before Putting Them Away

If you feel like there's a chance of your belongings getting wet, it is important to seal them up in zip lock bags before putting them away. This will help ensure they stay dry during the flood and any furniture or other items won't get damaged by moisture either! If something does happen, at least you can be more confident that your valuables are safe inside their packaging.

Remove All Your Belongings from the Basement

If you have a basement, it is best to remove all your belongings from that area. This might seem like an extreme way of preventing water damage, but basements are known for being susceptible to flooding so there's no point in taking any risks! If you don't want anything getting wet or damaged because of the flood, this is one simple step which will go a long way toward keeping everything nice and dry during the event.

Avoid Keeping Anything outside the House during Flood Warning

If you live in a flood-prone area, it is best to avoid keeping anything outside the house during a flood warning. This means that if you have something like an outdoor fridge or freezer, leave them where they are because there's no point putting your belongings at risk of being damaged by water. If the items do get wet and moldy, you will still be able to use them but discarding them might not even be necessary!

Don’t Put Your Furniture near Pipes or Drainage Systems

If you have a lot of furniture in the house, it is best to put them away from pipes or drainage systems. If they get wet, these items can cause water damage and moldy smells within your home which no one wants! Try placing all heavy pieces further back against walls where they won't be near anything that will cause problems when there's a flood. This simple step could save several possessions from being damaged by moisture during floods so make sure any big pieces are kept well clear of problem areas!

Why Every Homeowner Needs Professional Cleaning Services

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

Why Every Homeowner Needs Professional Cleaning Services

Maintaining your property can be a difficult task, especially if you have a large or complicated property. If you own an apartment building or rental complex with many units, keeping on top of the cleaning and maintenance is no easy feat. Professional cleaning services are in demand because they provide quality work at affordable prices. Whether it's for residential homes or commercial properties, professional cleaners will make sure that your home gets the care it deserves!

People often underestimate the value of a professional cleaning service. It is true that you can hire a maid or do the work yourself, but it isn't always possible to keep up with this type of work in your busy life. If you want to make sure your home looks and feels clean and well-maintained, then hiring professionals for regular upkeep is an excellent idea!

Benefits Of Hiring A Professional Cleaning Service Like SERVPRO

Saves You Time

Cleaning your home can be a time-consuming and difficult job. If you're like most households, then there is never enough free time in the day to worry about cleaning up after yourself! Professional cleaners take over all of that work for you so that it's done right and on schedule.

Save Money

Professional cleaners charge reasonable rates because they have streamlined their business processes. Instead of paying each individual worker, professional services outsource their jobs to independent local contractors who specialize in one type of service (i.e., window washing). By doing this, they are able to make sure every client gets top quality results while also cutting costs without sacrificing any value or satisfaction from their customers' perspective .

Improve Your Home Value As A Result Of Professional Cleaning Services

A clean and well-maintained home is a valuable asset. A professional cleaning service will make sure your home looks as good on the outside as it does inside, which can increase its resale value or appeal to potential renters looking for more space! Whether you're planning to sell soon or just want a cleaner space that's easier to maintain, hiring professionals is an excellent way of going about this process .

Healthy Indoor Air Quality

It's important to keep your home clean, but it is also vital to ensure that you are breathing in healthy air. Many household cleaning products contain chemicals and other ingredients that can be harmful for the respiratory system. Professional cleaners use eco-friendly solutions so that your indoor air quality remains pristine! You'll breathe easier knowing what type of impact professional cleaners have on the environment .

Offers Deep Cleaning Which Your Maid Can't Do

You can hire a maid to clean your home, but they will never be able to provide the same level of work as professionals. Professional cleaners come equipped with all of the necessary supplies and equipment that allow them to get deep into every nook and cranny. They are also trained in effective cleaning methods which guarantee results!

Why Do You Need The Services Of A Professional Company For Mold Remediation?

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Why Do You Need The Services Of A Professional Company For Mold Remediation?

Mold is a highly dangerous fungal growth that can cause a variety of health-related effects and should be handled accordingly. In fact, with the number of spores that mold can produce, one can develop serious health effects if steps are not taken to remove it. However, deciding to remove mold is the easy part as you will then have to decide on whether you should remove it yourself or should you hire a professional. Although, when it comes to mold remediation, it is vital that you hire a professional to come to do the job for you, and here are all the reasons why. 

Mold Growth Assessment

As with anything in the world, there are a variety of factors that can lead to the growth of mold on your property. One of the most common causes includes humidity and air conditioning. So, while you may have the goal to only remove the mold, a professional will begin by assessing what it is in your property that led to this growth. This will also allow them to help you prevent it from growing again. 

Proper Treatment Of The Mold 

Every professional, of course, has to go through some amount of training before they can really begin their work. Of course, they do this for a living, which is why a professional will always be better equipped with all the tools and knowledge they will need in order to go about the mold remediation process in a safe and effective manner. So, a professional will always be able to treat the mold along with the affected areas much more efficiently. In fact, the process can be quite overwhelming for someone inexperienced as it involves tasks, such as sealing the mold off, keeping the humidity on the property controlled, having to physically remove the mold, and even having to clean up afterward. If you do plan on doing all of these tasks yourselves, you could easily miss minute details that could have a significant impact on the regrowth of a mold. 

More Economical 

Of course, no one likes spending money unless they have to or want to. In fact, one can easily assume that people are always looking for more economical options that can help save their money. However, what they can overlook is the fact that they could be saving money now, but this action could cost them a large amount of money in the future. When it comes to mold, it has the ability to digest the surface that it grows on, which is why, if it is not removed and prevented now, you could end up having to spend a large amount of money on mold remediation and renovations. That is not all, if you fail to remove the mold properly, you might end up having to spend heaps of money on medical bills as mold can lead to several health effects.

All in all, in order to save you and your family's health, your property, and even your money, hiring a professional for the job is the safest and best option you have got.  

Why Your Home Needs A Professional Storm Cleanup Service

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Why Your Home Needs A Professional Storm Cleanup Service

A storm causes a lot of destruction in its wake. The chaos it creates is too much to deal with. This is why residential owners need extra help to restore their homes after a storm.

For this, you will need the service of a professional company that deals in storm damage restoration and cleanup such as us. After all, your home is your sanctuary and it needs to be protected so you can be safe.

Here are the many reasons why your home will need a professional storm damage restoration service.

Quick Cleanup And Repair

The damage that storms can cause can be extensive. You and your family can't possibly repair it in time and you will need a few days or a week to restore it yourself. However, because of this, you may feel unsafe in your own home.

Hiring a professional storm cleanup service means that your house will be restored to its original form in no time. This is because we are experts at what we do and we can quickly and effectively repair any damage caused by the storm around the house.

Professional Evaluation

As a layman, you will not know where to look for damage. You might miss out on a few things that should be repaired so your house can function well and live a long life.

Hiring a professional service will mean that they will do a full evaluation of your house first. This means that the experts will search every corner of the house to see the extent of the damage.

Apart from that, they will figure out what needs to be fixed through a detailed inspection and evaluation of your property. They will then come up with a solution to fix all the damage.

Clean And Sanitized Home For Optimal Health

Storm damage can cause contamination, infections, parasites, and diseases. These are serious issues that need to be addressed as soon as possible. If these issues exist then they will come to light when the experts do the inspection and evaluation.

As a professional cleanup service, our main priority is your health and we will do everything to ensure that it is not harmed. This is why your home will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to get rid of any contamination and infection. You can then go back to enjoying a safe and healthy home.

Flooding Will Be Taken Care Of

Storms can cause flooding in basements and other areas. However, we will clean it up through the use of our flood pumps to get rid of all the water and to prevent it from seeping into your walls.

As a professional cleanup service, we have all the equipment and expertise to execute the restoration effectively.

Final Words

Please don’t attempt to restore the house yourself after storm damage. Instead call professionals and experts such as us to effectively clean and restore your house to its original form.

For more information, feel free to get in touch with us now.

Avoiding Fires While Grilling

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Grills must be kept clean; remove all fats and grease to avoid a grill fire.

Keeping Fires At Bay While Grilling

People in Trevose, PA and all over the country enjoy a good barbecue, and frankly, what’s not to love? Besides the traditional hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, ribs and steak, veggies, fruits, and even pizza have found their way to flame cooking. By following some simple tips, you can stay safe and avoid the inconvenience of a grill fire.

Tips for Safe Charcoal Grilling

A bbq fire that gets out of control could cause damage to a home by engulfing flammable materials near the grill. In that case, there are professionals who stand ready to help with the remediation of bbq smoke damage to your home. However, grilling with charcoal or propane gas without drama is easy to do if you heed the following safety tips.

• All grills must be used only outdoors and be constantly attended.
• Place the grill away from the house, railings, or overhanging vegetation or structures.
• Keep children and pets away from hot grills.
• Grills must be kept clean; remove all fats and grease to avoid a grill fire.
• Neither charcoal lighter fluid nor matches should be kept near a grill in use.
• Wait until coals have completely cooled before disposing of them in a metal container.

Tips for Safe Gas Grilling

Inspecting the tank, hoses, connections and the grill itself for leaks should be routine. To check any of these areas for leaks, before grilling apply a light solution of soap and water to connections and check for bubbles. If bubbles are seen, tighten connections and recheck. If the bubbling persists, have the grill serviced by a professional. If a leak is detected while grilling, turn off the tank and burners. If the smell of gas persists, call the fire department without delay.

Cooking outdoors for friends and family is a special treat. Eliminating the risk of a grill fire will make your next barbecue safe and enjoyable.

Keep Mold From Spreading Using These Five Easy Steps

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can grow in any commercial space.

Using These Five Simple Steps, You Can Prevent Mold From Spreading

Mold spores are ever-present in the world. If given the right conditions, these small seeds can land in warehouses, businesses, or offices and grow into full-fledged blooms. Mold outbreaks should be addressed immediately. Mold cleanup can be done by owners of commercial properties in Feasterville, PA, who wish to undertake the task by themselves. If you notice mold growth in your commercial space, take the following five measures in order to ensure that you do not cross-contaminate clean and unaffected areas when removing your business’s mold contamination.

Wear Old Clothes When Removing Mold. Mold spores will cling to the clothes you wear. Don an old shirt, pants and shoes that you won’t mind throwing away after the cleanup.

Cover Air Vents. Your air conditioning and heating systems are great conduits for spreading spores throughout your commercial space. Be sure to fully cover your ventilation systems before undertaking any mold cleanup.

Hide the Vacuum. Keep your vacuum far from your work area to ensure that this spore-sucking machine doesn’t convert itself into a spore-spewing machine.

Spritz Mold Patches. It may seem counterintuitive to add humidity to the water-loving organism that you are trying to kill. However, a quick aqua spray will reduce the number of spores that are released into the air as you work.

Dispose of Affected Materials. Tainted carpet, flooring, rugs, curtains and clothing should be placed into a heavy-duty plastic garbage bag and disposed of immediately. Be sure to seal the bag by taping it closed before tossing.

Given the right conditions, mold can grow in any commercial space. If you decide to tackle your commercial property’s mold problem on your own, be sure to take a note from mold-removal professionals who take special precautions to avoid cross-contamination when conducting their mold cleanup. By taking the above simple yet important measures, owners of commercial spaces in Feasterville, PA, can prevent the cross-contamination of mold in their businesses or offices when removing their mold outbreak.

What To Do After Your Toilet Overflows

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Overflowing toilet

What To Do After Your Toilet Overflows

Indoor plumbing is a wonderful amenity that most of the world has become accustomed to — and very grateful for — but that doesn’t mean it’s a flawless system. Sometimes you’ll find yourself dealing with a flooded toilet, which can be the result of a minor clog or even major sewer damage. No matter what problems you’re experiencing, it’s good to know what to do to minimize the potential damage to your home in Cornwells Heights, PA after your toilet spills over.

A Simple Clogged Toilet

Most of the time, the issue is simply a small clog, and you’ll probably be able to take care of it with a plunger. If the toilet is currently overflowing, the first thing you’ll want to do is shut off the water supply using the valve that's usually found just behind the toilet. If you can’t find this, open the water tank and rig the float into a position that allows it to stay in place so no more water flows in.

Any water that made it to the floor is contaminated, especially if it’s from a bigger sewer backup. It’s very important to clean this up and disinfect the area, then disinfect any rags used for the cleanup.

Major Sewer Damage

If it seems like the toilet is still clogged or wants to keep overflowing, there’s a chance the clog is larger and deeper in the pipes. Alternately, there may be damage down below, such as a break or crack in the sewer system.

If you’re experiencing more serious sewer damage, the kind that can't be remedied with a plunger and elbow grease, it will more than likely become worse over time; it is definitely not a problem to put off. Contaminated water can back up not only into your toilets, but also into sinks, bathtubs, and showers, which can become a health hazard for you and your family. Contacting your local sewage system experts to diagnose and fix your sewer problems will give you peace of mind and prevent more costly damage from occurring in your home.

3 Ways the Pros Get Rid of Smoke Smell

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

A thermal fogger is designed to condense smoke and soot into a form that’s easier to clean.

Smoke Odor Removal

Smoke odor removal typically isn’t one of those things that you can just do on your own with a little elbow grease. Smoke is an extremely pesky substance that can infuse itself into any even slightly porous surface, and it’s difficult to get rid of later on. Fortunately, smoke cleaning professionals in Feasterville, PA, have a number of ways to combat this issue:

• Air purifiers
  
• Ozone machines
  
• Thermal foggers
  
  

These machines are designed to not only deodorize a space but to remove the smoke itself to keep the area smelling and looking fresh.

Air Purifiers

These machines can be purchased in almost any hardware store and are already used by homeowners across the world to deodorize. However, when they’re used by professionals, they are often heavy-duty models that work alongside a number of other techniques to remove smoke damage from space.

Ozone Machines

These machines produce ozone, a gas that can eliminate dangerous or unwanted airborne particles in your home, including smoke. This smoke cleaning device uses ozone itself to push smoke out of its place, replacing it with a clean, aerosol-like scent over time. Of course, this method may not be the best option if you have pets or young children, as ozone is toxic in high doses.

Thermal Foggers

A thermal fogger is designed to condense smoke and soot into a form that’s easier to clean. The machines release a hot mist into space, which seeps into fabrics, porous counters, and more to soak up the smoke particles that have made themselves at home there. Because the smoke particles are contained in this way, they’re simpler to remove or wipe away.

Smoke cleaning can be a tough, lengthy process, but working with professionals can help you get the job done faster and more effectively. In the end, it’s worth it to get your home back to its old self.

Tax Deductions for Storm Damage

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Ceiling damaged due to storm in Trevose, PA.

Rough weather in any season can lead to storm damage to your home or business in Trevose, PA. In some cases, losses that are not covered on your homeowners or business policy are tax-deductible if certain criteria are met.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maintains a list of areas declared disaster zones, and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) posts announcements regarding tax relief programs for victims within them. A quick online check can ascertain your eligibility for federal assistance. The silver lining of your natural disaster just might be a tax break.

How to Deduct Losses

The general rule regarding deductions is that any loss that has already been reimbursed by insurance is not deductible. However, if for any reason you do not file an insurance claim, the loss may be deductible. While losses as the result of normal deterioration or accident are not deductible, the following natural disasters would likely qualify:

• earthquakes
  
• tornadoes
  
• hurricanes
  
• floods
  
• blizzards
  
• wildfires
  
  

To deduct a storm damage loss related to your home, nonbusiness property or vehicle, you must file an itemized tax form. Two offsets apply; $100 must be subtracted, and the balance must be more than 10% of your adjusted gross income. The deduction is recorded on Schedule A of your federal tax return on IRS Form 4684.

To deduct a loss to your business, neither the 10% of adjusted gross income nor the $100 reduction comes into play, and you may claim the deduction even if you do not itemize your tax return. Businesses located within presidentially declared disaster areas may be eligible for federal tax relief.

No location is immune to the sometimes epic forces of nature that are more than capable of wreaking havoc in the lives of its inhabitants. However, homeowners can take comfort in knowing that in the unwelcome event of a natural disaster, reimbursement for storm damage from an insurance policy or the federal government is available.

Are Your Employees Ready To Handle a Fire?

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Create an effective evacuation plan in your Bensalem, PA business.

What Should Your Employees Do When A Fire Strikes?

Do they know how to quickly evacuate the premises? While many people believe that adults should know how to protect themselves, the reality is that during emergency situations it's not always that simple. It's best for business owners in Bensalem, PA, to develop a contingency plan, understanding the best methods for swift departure and immediate cleanup.

1. Establish Escape Routes

Working with a team, create an effective evacuation plan. You should all walk the grounds, thinking about potential areas where issues might arise. Then, brainstorm how best to get others out. Walk several routes, noting any obstacles or complications. Remember, you should have multiple paths, and each should be handicap accessible. Once your walk is over, write up the map and make sure everyone has it. Then, practice. Fire drills don't stop in elementary school.

2. Have Structured Leadership

No matter what calamity strikes, you should have a contingency plan for who takes control. Have someone level-headed to manage the chaos. Allow this person to have control over when to send out alerts as well as running the dismissal. Another staff member should gather evacuation materials from the office. Essentially, this is your emergency response manager.

3. Delegate Tasks

As people follow the evacuation plan, you'll have some who have responsibilities for the office. Who has personnel contact information? This person coordinates with others to ensure safety. Who is medically trained? This person can attend to workers who necessitate more assistance? Who has the role of working with a fire restoration company? This person discusses repairs and sanitation. Your business leader should access backed-up files and begin locating a secondary place for temporary work.
With the right contingency plan, you can give staff the support they need. In addition, you can keep the company up and running from a different place.

3 Indoor Environmental Hygiene Services for Mold

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

Mold containment in Feasterville, PA.

Hygienists Services

An indoor environmental hygienist is an air quality technician who is trained to take samples of mold spores for lab analysis and interpret the results of testing for mold cleaning. Here are three helpful services hygienists can offer to the owner of a home located in Feasterville, PA.

1. Take Samples for Analysis
An indoor environmental hygienist has all of the equipment necessary to take batch, surface, or air samples. Depending on where mold growth is suspected in a residence, one or more of these methods may be useful. Samples that are taken by these trained technicians are likely to be more accurate and comprehensive than any DIY kit that requires a homeowner to take and send in samples for lab analysis.

2. Report Back on Lab Results
Indoor environmental hygienists are also trained in interpreting the results returned by laboratory analysis. Whether spores are cultured and grown in a lab or any other methods are used to identify the species of mold growing in a home, these experts can give a positive identification of mold, interpret the concentration of volatile organic compounds and confirm whether mycotoxins are present.

3. Make Mold Cleaning Recommendations
If a homeowner has testing done in advance of mold cleanup, an indoor environmental hygienist can suggest the best approach to mold remediation. For minor mold damage, this may involve limited containment and the use of fungicides. For major damage that affects many square feet of a home or involves toxigenic mold, remediation may require full containment.
When homeowners or mold cleaning professionals need to know which species and subspecies of mold is growing at a residence in Feasterville, PA, they contact an indoor environmental hygienist. This technician should arrive at the location as soon as possible to take samples. It may take several days up to a week for the results of the analysis to be available.

How Business Interruption Insurance Differs From Other Insurance

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

Interruption insurance usually starts when a business is closed due to a covered event.

For your company to remain strong in difficult times, it will need a good insurance plan. The complete mix of insurance products will depend upon many things, but your company will require a comprehensive policy that protects against property damage and liability concerns. A complete or partial rebuild could cost many thousands of dollars. A major disaster could also cause your building in Cornwells Heights, PA, to shut down for days or even weeks. In these situations, your company could face a significant loss of business income, resulting in the inability to pay creditors, vendors and employees. Fortunately, there is insurance available for a business shutdown.

The Basics of Business Interruption Insurance

This type of insurance is typically added to your primary policy, which pays for such things as storm damage, fire damage, a rebuild or other covered perils. Interruption insurance usually starts when a business is closed due to a covered event. It typically helps with the following operational costs:

• Loan payments
  
• Loss of business income
  
• Expenses as a result of the closed business
  
• Employee payroll
  
• Taxes
  
• Rent or lease payments
  
  

Once your company is able to operate again, this type of insurance is no longer in effect. In some cases, depending upon your policy, you could get reimbursed for efforts to set up a temporary place of business.

The Basics of Successful Remediation
No matter what type of disaster your company faces, it might need the services of a professional storm remediation franchise. This highly-trained team can remove standing water from your facility caused by storms or floods. An assortment of technicians can remove excess moisture, clean and sanitize the building and restore damaged materials. They can return your building to its original condition.
If a rebuild is necessary, experienced professionals can complete the work efficiently. This allows your company to get back to work again in a timely manner.

Staying Safe in a Commercial Fire: Here Are 3 Things Business Owners Should Do

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

A business fire can spread rapidly.

Three Things Business Owners Should Do

Owners already face enormous responsibility. Tasked with the daily function of the company, management has an eye on operations and profit. There is another vital side to the position: the safety of staff and the building. If a business fire occurs, it could harm both employees and the ability to work. For this reason, it's essential to craft a fire readiness plan and annually evaluate safety devices. Here are three things commercial owners in Bensalem, PA, should do.

1. Ensure There Are Adequate Escape Paths
Each year, have a fire preparation committee meet and review the current protocols. At this time, the group should discuss if emergency exit paths are functional or require any changes. Start by checking data of fire drills. Are people getting out in good time? If not, why? What could be changed about it? If you continue to have struggles, contact a fire restoration company to offer suggestions.
Update the maps, remove any obstacles and provide this new information to staff. Be sure all fire lanes are labeled clearly.

2. Purchase and Test Fire Extinguishers
During a business fire, flames may block exits. In this circumstance, employees should have access to fire extinguishers. One should be located every 75 feet and in rooms with heat sources or chemicals. Be sure they are in reach, not blocked. Hold classes on how to operate one, and check the expiration date annually.

3. Avoid Electrical Hazards
A leading cause of fire damage is an electrical malfunction. Be vigilant about checking on appliances and machinery, ensuring that devices are in compliance with regulations and are in good condition. Have regular inspections of the equipment, and repair any concerns immediately.
Don't block outlets or electrical plates. Use cover plates, and keep wires hidden. Also, be sure employees are not stringing electrical cords. While electrical cords are helpful, they are dangerous when used long-term.
A business fire can spread rapidly, consuming hallways and rooms. Protect yourself and others by being proactive with preparation. Ensure those fire safety devices are available and that people know how to get out.

Preparing Your Commercial Building for a Flood

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial cleaning and restoration services in Langhorne, PA.

Flood Prevention Techniques

If your business in Langhorne, PA, is located in or near a high flood zone, flood insurance is a must. Flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and can be added to your commercial building insurance plan. There are some flood prevention techniques you should also consider to reduce the risk of flooding.

1. Determine Your Base Flood Elevation
This calculation, known as the BFE, determines if your lowest floor is above or below the acceptable flood level. If it is below acceptable levels consider elevating the building at least 3 feet above the BFE, if possible. Contact your county's floodplain administrator for details in determining your BFE.

2. Install Flood-Resistant Materials
Use materials that are flood-resistant wherever possible. Water-resistant wall coverings, flooring and wall insulation will reduce the risk of water damage. Most of these materials can handle contact with water for about 72 hours before extensive damage occurs.

3. Utilize Dry Floodproofing Techniques
Flood prevention techniques, such as dry floodproofing, help to make your building watertight and keep floodwaters from invading your building.
Water-resistant shields should be placed over doors and windows located at or below the BFE. Water-absorbent sandbags, plastic tarps and sheeting should be placed in strategic areas around the building before the storm hits. These devices help to stave off shallow floodwaters.
Permanent swing flood doors or temporary flood gates can be installed to prevent deeper water from entering your building.

4. Invest in Backup Electrical Power
Consider purchasing backup power for your mechanical equipment and air conditioning system. Humidifiers and blowers help dry out materials quickly. If you find yourself in need of flood cleaning after a storm, however, don't attempt to tackle the problem yourself. Contact a water restoration service as soon as possible.
By implementing some smart flood prevention techniques, you can reduce the risk of severe damage to your building.

Is Your Home Affected With Category 3 Water? Here Is How To Find Out

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in an Oakford, PA residential home.

Not all water is the same. Authorities class the fluid into three categories, clean, gray and black water. These degrees have to do with the hazardous impact of the fluid and how they enter the premises. While homeowners in Oakford, PA, shouldn't want to suffer from any of these to infiltrate the property, the last one is of utmost concern, requiring thorough and meticulous cleanup. Here is how to know if you have dirty water in your home and how to clean it.

Where Did the Water Come From?

When you start to evaluate your flood impact, think about the following factors to determine if you require sewage cleanup:

• Where did the water originate?
  
• Could it contain bacteria?
  
• What is the level of possible contamination?
  
  

A busted clean pipeline is unlikely to bring in harmful microorganisms. The dampness could trigger mold, but it isn't introducing any waste product. A gray line occurs from an indoor leak, often an appliance. Washing machines and dishwashers have hoses that carry away the dirty water. This fluid houses food and organisms. While not overly fraught with bacteria, cleaning is needed.
Black water arises from places that have human waste, animals or dirt. The impact from an external water source such as the ocean, river, or sewer line falls under this zone. Leaving category 2 water alone, such as in standing puddles or without proper cleanup, may also turn into this group as bacterial levels fester and spread.

What Can Owners Do About This Concern?
When category 3 breaches the home, immediately contact a water and sewage restoration company. Specialists should assess moisture saturation and contamination, taking samples from the walls and air, determining the type and extent of the flooding. Then, the team puts together an action plan to restore the residence using scientific studies and awareness.
The crew evaluates porous and nonporous materials, dictating what may be salvaged and what must go. They set to work reducing the humidity levels and securing the rooms from further harm.
Don't ignore black water. Because of its hazardous nature, it's prudent to work with professionals to sanitize the home quickly and effectively.

Follow These Tips To Safely Use Your Space Heater

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid having a burned space heater.

Follow These Tips To Safely Use Your Space Heater

A burned space heater turns a convenient way to warm a single room into a major fire hazard. Not only can you lose money on the purchase of a new device, but the costs can pile up if the fire damages your Fox Chase, PA, home. You can avoid this danger by using the device properly and safely with the help of these tips.

Keep Combustible Materials Away
Any room has many potential combustible materials around. When positioning the space heater, keep it away from:

• Paper items (books, notebooks)
  
• Fabrics (blankets, curtains, bedding)
  
• Wooden furniture and items
  
• Gas cans
  
• Paint containers
  
• Matches
  
  

All these materials can either burn fast when they are exposed to heat or react violently to it. You can prevent these interactions by placing the heater flat on a flat floor with no objects near it.

Clean the Air Filters
Another common cause behind a burned space heater is filthy and overstuffed filters. A space heater is usually left idle for long periods of time and eventually gathers dust that can clog up the air filters, causing them to overheat and start a fire. You can stop this incident by cleaning the filters at least twice a year. Wear protective gear, turn off the device and carefully clean the filters and other internal components with compressed air, a vacuum or a duster.

Unplug Heater When Necessary
A space heater requires minimal operation when you use it to warm a single location. Its simple use and its effectiveness over time can tempt you to leave it on while you do to another room or go to sleep. However, it can overheat or malfunction, lighting a fire without your knowledge. Unplug the device before leaving the room or going to sleep. Alternatively, look for a heater that has advanced safety features like automatic shut-off.
Reliable emergency restoration services can help you with fire damage and smoke cleanup, but you can prevent this situation with enough prevention. Follow these safe use practices to avoid having a burned space heater.

How SERVPRO Can Help With Emergency Response

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can provide comprehensive pretesting services.

How SERVPRO Can Help With Emergency Response

When you are in an emergency, time matters. Fortunately, you can make this process easier by going through a damage remediation company in Eddington, PA. They provide a variety of claim services to help you get back on your feet quickly. They do this by working with your insurance company while performing cleanup services.

Pretesting
SERVPRO can provide comprehensive pretesting services like:

• Assessing the damage
  
• Stopping problems before they get worse
  
• Taking an accurate account of what needs to be done and when
  
  

Each of these services can prove vital to you resuming your normal business operations.

Emergency Response
They are available during an emergency and have a local emergency response team. This helps to mitigate any incidental damage. They will be able to get to you quickly and are trained to deal with almost every type of emergency. Whether it is a storm, fire or flood that left your business damaged, you can count on them to be there for you quickly.

Claim Services
They can help you with the complicated process of filing the correct insurance claim. They offer services like electronic filing and online access to your claim files. They also work with a vast network of insurance companies, so there is a good chance that they understand any particular company's claims process. This can be invaluable when you just want the problem handled.

Trained Teams
SERVPRO trains all of its response teams in all aspects of fire, water, storm, cleanup and restoration. Their technicians have an Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration certification. This means that you are getting the absolute best service and people who know what they are doing when it comes to various restoration situations. They also know how to speak with insurance companies and agents to achieve the best result.
When it comes to claim services, you want a company that has a good reputation with insurance companies. Only someone who knows the ins and outs of damage restoration and insurance can give you the best service possible.

Common Water Issues In Commercial Buildings

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

A damaged building foundation can cause a damaged plumbing system or other plumbing issues.

Three Of The Most Common Water Issues For Commercial Buildings

If you own a commercial building in Woodbourne, PA, there are many things you need to keep in mind to keep your building and employees safe. One of the most common causes of building damage is water damage such as leaking pipes. This type of water damage is preventable if you know the signs of common water problems. 

1. Foundation Problems
If your commercial building's foundation is damaged, it can lead to major issues, especially if you do not address it promptly. Foundation issues caused by plumbing problems can cause drainage issues and soil displacement. These are issues that can cause your building's foundation to shift, crack or otherwise become damaged. A damaged building foundation can cause a damaged plumbing system or other plumbing issues. It may also lead to a loss of structural integrity, leaving your building vulnerable to further issues such as ceiling or wall cracks.

2. Deteriorated Sewer Lines
If your building has cast-iron sewer lines, you should be on the lookout for deterioration, excessive wear, or failure of these lines. A sewer line issue can present itself in many ways, including gas odors in the sewer or excessive drain clogging such as toilet backup or leaking pipes. Additionally, unusual indentation and deformation in landscape areas of your building can indicate a sewage problem. If you suspect that your commercial building has deteriorated sewer lines, you should call in an emergency water damage company to fix this issue before it becomes a bigger problem, as leaving deteriorated sewer lines can cause further issues down the line.

3. Water Pipe Damage
A pipe break, burst pipe, or leak can quickly become a costly issue. By dealing with this issue promptly, you can avoid the consequences of water pipe damage such as damaged walls, floors, or ceilings. Additionally, leaving these problems unattended makes your building vulnerable to mold and mildew. Be on the lookout for signs of leaking pipes, such as bulging walls or water stains.
It's important to act quickly if you notice any type of water issue to prevent lasting damages and call in a professional water restoration company.

How Do You Estimate Fire Damage to a Commercial Building?

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Oakford, PA

After a commercial fire in Oakford, PA, you’ll need to get an estimate for the repairs to your building. Depending on your insurance company and the policy, this will most likely be developed by the restoration company in conjunction with your insurance adjuster.
However, having some knowledge about what’s involved can help you understand the process and note anything that’s of concern. Some insurance companies can try to reduce the payout, so it’s best if you know your rights.

What Are the Basic Factors Impacting Your Estimate?

Your insurance policy may have limitations, exclusions and riders that will alter your payout. The deductible, or the portion of the damages you’re required to pay, will also vary. Overall, there are three causal factors that impact the cost to repair fire damage:

• How much of your building was damaged.
  
• The type and purpose of the building.
  
• The market value of your building.
  
  

How Bad Is Smoke Damage?
A major part of the appraisal is based on smoke damage. Smoke is insidious; it gets everywhere, finding tiny gaps and embedding itself into anything remotely porous.
Cleaning up the odor and toxic residue requires very specialized equipment and disinfectants in Oakford, PA. Always choose a local company with plenty of experience in deep cleaning and odor removal. They’ll have high-volume air scrubbers and heavy-duty odor absorbers that strip the oily residue away. Highly absorbent items such as carpet and drywall far removed from the flames still may have to be fully replaced.

Do New Repairs Have to Match Existing Areas?
When you receive the estimate, make sure the adjuster has allowed for repairs to appear uniform. The new portions must have a consistent appearance with new materials and paint matching what already exists. New construction shouldn’t be noticeable to the casual eye.
Some policies will also include lost possessions. Also, you can get a rider to cover your loss of normal business during repairs or other interrupting events. This type of insurance can be expensive, so talk with your agent to determine what’s best for you.

Is Fire a Covered Peril?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Eddington, PA

Expenses associated with fire damage cleanup and restoration damage can add up to tens of thousands of dollars. Business or building owners who have commercial property insurance should be able to file a fire insurance claim to cover most expenses associated with restoring fire damage and replacing losses. Policy details including endorsements, exclusions, or limits determine the amount of coverage.

Commercial Property Coverage

Commercial property insurance policies cover most fire restoration costs. Fire damage may not be covered if this peril is excluded or any of the following factors apply:

• Arson or intentional fire
• No property insurance coverage
• Vacant property
  
  

As long as a property is covered by an insurance policy, some funding should be available to mitigate, clean, and restore fire damage. The amount of coverage available depends on policy limits, endorsements, and exclusions.

Exclusions and Limits
Some types of coverage may be cut out of commercial property insurance policies. Exclusions are more likely for issues such as mold, which tends to originate as secondary damage due to primary water damage that was not properly restored. An insurance policy may only provide a limited amount of coverage for smoke cleanup and other supplementary cleaning and restoration procedures.

Additional Fire Coverage
A business that uses combustible or flammable substances on a regular basis along with other risk factors such as heat may want to obtain additional fire insurance. Depending on the property insurance policy, this coverage may be available as an endorsement or rider. Additional policies may be necessary for specific risks.
All of these factors determine how much coverage is available for fire damage mitigation, cleanup, and restoration. It may be necessary to tear out damaged materials and rebuild portions of a commercial building in Eddington, PA. Assessing risks, prioritizing safety, and maintaining a sufficient level of fire insurance coverage gives building and business owners more peace of mind.

6 Tips to Avoid a Grill Fire

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Every time the grill is used the grates should be cleaned

Six Grilling Tips

For many people in Hulmeville, PA, warm weather creates the urge to fire up the grill. Enjoying good food and your backyard oasis with friends and family can quickly become a bad memory if a grill fire breaks out. In the right circumstances, even a small flare-up could lead to needing a fire and smoke damage restoration expert to get your home back to how it should be. To help keep the memories good ones, below are six grilling tips to keep in mind.

1. Only Outdoors
No matter if using charcoal or a gas grill, this method of cooking should only take place outdoors.

2. The Right Location
Ensure grills are located away from the home or other structures, including near covered porches, sheds, or garages. Verify that there is nothing above the grill, such as an overhang or branch. Keep flammable decorations away from the grilling area.

3. Trim the Fat
Grease is the main culprit in a grill fire. Although good marbling gives meat tenderness, ensure there isn’t any excess fat. Keep a spray bottle filled with water when cooking extra fatty meat.

4. Stay Alert
Grilling requires focus. Leaving a lit grill with food cooking on it can easily lead to a barbeque fire. From flare-ups to it accidentally getting knocked over, tending to your duties as the grillmaster should take the top priority.

5. Clean Counts
Every time the grill is used the grates should be cleaned. Deep cleaning should happen a couple of times a year. When grill time is over, let it cool. Placing a cover over it while it still hot could lead to a fire.

6. Inspect Before Using
If using a gas grill, inspect the tank, knobs, and hoses for any damage or potential leaks.
There is nothing quite like backyard fun, so make sure to keep safety on your mind when grilling to avoid a grill fire.

Hidden Mold Locations in Commercial Facilities

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

If your wallboard has been damaged by mold, you will have to discard it

Inspect The Following Locations

Mold growth does not always occur in obvious places. All the fungus needs is a dark and moist surface with organic nutrients. Unfortunately, most parts of a facility include these ingredients. You should thus regularly check your Hulmeville, PA, property for signs of the fungus. Mold commonly appears in the below areas, so be sure to inspect these locations vigilantly.

1. Wallboard
A flood or leak can quickly soak the wallboard in your building. Even condensation can create the moisture that encourages the spread of mold. If you remove the excess water in your building within two days, you may be able to salvage the wallboard. However, if the water physically damaged the wallboard, you will have to discard it.

2. Paper
You probably have storage rooms full of paper documents. Perhaps the paper is piled up in your hallway or closet, as well. Many of these locations feature the high humidity that mold loves. A leak that soaks these papers could cause mold growth, as well.
Any papers that have been wet for more than 48 hours may require professional drying and cleaning. Papers that were exposed to the water for two days or fewer should be dried and photocopied before you discard them.

3. Ceiling Tiles
The tiles in your ceiling are fairly porous. This means they absorb the dirt and moisture that mold needs to grow. During your inspection, pay special attention to the tiles above HVAC vents. They often accumulate more moisture since they are in a humid part of the building.
Tiles may also sustain water damage following a roof or pipe leak. Stains are evidence that the tiles have gotten wet. Any stains that you discover during your inspection should be investigated right away.
If you find even a small amount of mold on your property, call restoration and cleanup professionals immediately. They can clean the affected areas and help prevent future mold growth.

Preserving Your Memories After Flooding

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration in Feasterville, PA

Preserving Your Memories After Flooding

Water in the home can be a terribly destructive force. Not only can it cause damage to the structure of your home, but it poses a great risk to your possessions. While many items are replaceable, the restoration of heirlooms, photographs, and documents can be the longest and hardest part of the recovery process. Salvaging these begins with cleaning the items, then drying them, and sanitizing if needed. Sanitizing can be required if the water is contaminated but is usually not necessary if the water came from a clean source like a broken pipe. Cleaning is largely limited to wet cleaning — rinsing or immersing in water and cleaner — and dry cleaning for fabrics and textiles. Drying is the most important part of the process for preserving the longevity of the items, and can be done in several ways:

• Dehumidification
• Vacuum Thermal Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Air Drying

All but the last require specialized equipment and should be done by a trained restoration specialist in Feasterville, PA.

Air Drying
Air drying is accessible for most people after discovering water in the home. It can be done indoors, with fans and good air circulation. It is important to properly support any fragile documents during this process, so they are often laid out on or packed with an absorbent fabric. It is important not to do this outdoors, as temperature fluctuations and sunlight can cause further damage. Consumer dehumidifiers can help speed this process as well. Many items can be air-dried without loss of integrity, but it is very important to ensure they are completely dry before packaging for storage.
The aftermath of unexpected water in the home can be a chaotic time, and the hardest part can be worrying about your prized possessions. With knowledge of the options for cleaning and drying, you can alleviate some of the stress of the recovery effort.

3 Tips for Dealing With Water Damage After a Fire

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Fires can be extremely destructive, with the heat and flames

These Three Tips Will Help You Deal With Water Damage After a Fire

Fires can be extremely destructive, with the heat and flames causing large amounts of damage that are compounded by the smoke and soot damage left behind. Additionally, the water used to combat fires can further damage your property and contribute to future problems, such as mold growth. Prompt water cleanup after a fire can reduce the amount of property damage caused.

1. Contact Your Insurance Company
Before you begin to address the fire damage, water damage, and smoke cleanup, contact your insurance company to file a claim. You can make some temporary repairs on your own, but wait for the insurance company to give you the go-ahead to begin permanent repairs. The insurance company will probably want to send someone out to inspect your damage before authorizing any repairs or restoration services in Trevose, PA.

2. Dry Out Your Property
Once you get the go-ahead from your insurance company, begin the process of drying out your property. The earlier you start water cleanup, the better chance you have of avoiding problems, such as mold growth, and salvaging your property. Most businesses lack the equipment and expertise to mitigate water damage on their own. You may want to contact a professional water mitigation service. In the meantime, if the weather permits it, open as many doors and windows as possible to start the drying process.

3. Document the Damage
When the fire department deems it safe to reenter the building and begin fire cleanup, take photographs and make note of property that was damaged as a result of the fire. Include any items that have mold growth that may have resulted from water damage.
Fire, smoke, and water can combine to wreak havoc on your business when a fire occurs. Prompt water cleanup can help you mitigate your damages and avoid future problems.

Dangerous Scenarios During and After a Storm

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

People should not travel during bad weather

News reports are full of the many dangers that come with violent storms. Oftentimes these events lead to injury or even death for people caught in the middle of severe weather. A flooded street poses dangers for both pedestrians and drivers, while flooding is a problem for many homeowners in the area, so keep these tips in mind during a storm

Travel Tips

When at all possible, people should not travel during bad weather. Lightning, hailstorms, and flooded roads all pose serious dangers to travelers. Drivers should heed the following precautions during a storm:

• Only go out when absolutely necessary
• Carry a cell phone at all times
• Let loved ones know the travel itinerary
• Call 911 in an emergency

Never drive through a flooded street. It can be difficult if not impossible to determine the depth and strength of water over roadways. If the water is moving quickly, it can easily sweep a person of his or her feet. Experts state that as little as 12 inches of water can carry away a small vehicle, while 2 feet of moving water will wash even bigger cars down the road.
Persons who get trapped in high water in a vehicle should vacate the car or truck if it is safe to do so and immediately head to higher ground. If the water is moving swiftly, they should remain with the automobile.

Flood Cleanup
In addition to flooding the streets, it is more than likely the water will spill into the basements and ground floors of businesses and homes. When this happens, the services of a storm mitigation franchise can be indispensable. Trained technicians come to a property and work to bring a home back to normal. They use specialized equipment such as fans, vacuums, and air dryers to remove standing water, and know advanced techniques to get rid of odors, stains, and other forms of water damage.
Flooding in Penndel, PA, is bound to cause many problems, from a flooded street to a flooded basement. Take care to stay safe in such a disaster, both at and away from home.

Top 4 Commercial Mold FAQs

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Langhorne, PA

Why The Problem Occurs And How To Address It

There are many misconceptions about mold growth and remediation. These four frequently asked questions about mold in commercial buildings can help you gain a better understanding of the topic and use that knowledge to control mold issues in your buildings.

1. What Is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that can be black, orange, white, green or purple and grow in almost any indoor or outdoor space. Mold occurs naturally in the environment and does not usually cause problems in small amounts. However, mold can reproduce rapidly in moist, poorly ventilated indoor spaces, leading to stains and other property damage.

2. How Do I Know I Have a Mold Problem?
If you have water damage in your building, there is a good chance you may also have mold growth. Signs to watch for include a musty odor, clusters of black, white, gray, green or brown spots that may have a fuzzy or thread-like appearance, water leaks and flooding.

3. What Causes Mold in Commercial Buildings?
The cause of mold in commercial buildings is usually the same as the cause in most indoor spaces. Moisture from a leaking roof, plumbing leaks, condensation, high humidity or flooding promotes mold. You are even more likely to have a problem if the moist space is poorly ventilated.

4. How Should I Remove Mold?
There is so much mold in the environment, you can not completely eradicate it and you do not need to. However, problematic amounts should be addressed. Most do-it-yourself solutions are not very effective. A professional mold remediation company in Langhorne, PA, can effectively clean and remove mold and reduce the chances of the mold coming back.
The key to an effective mold growth control strategy is understanding why the problem occurs and how to address it when it does. These four frequently asked questions can help you formulate an effective strategy for dealing with mold in your commercial buildings.

3 Steps To Cleaning Up Your Wood Floor

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

COmmercial water mitigation

3 Steps To Cleaning Up Your Wood Floor

If you suffer from a pipe burst in your building, you should act quickly to resolve the problem to prevent any severe damage to your property. Water and wood are the perfect recipe for mold and mildew, and if left unattended for too long, the situation could result in structural damage in Bensalem, PA.
Here are three basic steps you should take to clean up your flooded floor:

1. Find the problem and fix it. Before you do anything else, you should find the source of water and stop the leak. A pipe burst will continue to leak water onto your floor unless you do something to stop it. Do not spend your time trying to remove water before stopping additional water from flooding in.

2. Remove any standing water. Now that you have stopped the leak, start removing water from the floor. The longer the water sits on a wet floor, the greater the risk of damage, as water can absorb through the cracks, seams and fibrous material of the wood, making it susceptible to mold, mildew and other damage. Towels and absorbent materials are great for pulling water off the surface of the floor.

3. Hire a professional to help. Do not try to save money and attempt the cleanup and repairs on your own. This is not the time to gamble with your own amateur knowledge of water cleanup. It is in the best interest of your business to ensure that your wood floor is properly dried, cleaned, and disinfected. A professional water damage and restoration service will send specialists that are highly trained in these processes and will ensure that any risk of mold and additional damage has been eliminated. With their professional equipment, they will also get the job done faster than if you attempted to do it yourself.
A pipe burst can really dampen your day, but if you act swiftly and call for help as soon as the problem starts, you can reduce the loss and damage to your business and also decrease the downtime while repairs are handled.

What Causes Natural Gas To Explode?

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

A gas leak can quickly reach unsafe levels of concentration in a residence

What To Do As Soon You Feel The Smell Of Natural Gas

A gas leak can quickly reach unsafe levels of concentration in a residence. Under these circumstances, any heat or sparks can ignite and cause a gas fire that has the potential to destroy a home and cause damage to surrounding structures in Cornwells Heights, PA. Learn more about the dangers posed by gas leaks and what to do as soon as you smell the methyl mercaptan added to indicate the presence of odorless natural gas.

High Concentrations of Gas
Whether an appliance or a gas connection is leaking, the concentration of gas particles in air make an explosion more likely. Any of the following actions may pose an elevated risk of combustion:

• Flipping switches
  
• Unplugging electronics
  
• Using devices
  
  

Average gas concentrations in the air of a home that has a gas range and oven hover between 5 to 15 parts per million. If this level passes 30 ppm, a residence is at elevated risk of a gas fire.

Ignition From High Heat or Sparks
Electrical plugs and the devices indicated above can release a spark that ignites gas. Any source of heat, fire, or electrical sparks is potentially dangerous in the event of a gas leak. For this reason, ventilation and evacuation are recommended.

Evacuate and Call Emergency Services
Place a call to emergency services from outside a residence with a suspected gas leak. Gas company employees can arrive on site, determine the leak location and complete a repair. The area where leaking gas was accumulating must be thoroughly ventilated before it is safe for occupants to return and use electricity.
The sulfurous odor associated with natural gas is not naturally occurring. This scent is added as a safety measure to make it possible to detect leaks prior to a gas fire or gas explosion. Homeowners should act quickly to report a leak, ventilate and evacuate a household in Cornwells Heights, PA.

Three Common Places for Toilet Leaks

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Toilet leaks can cause damage in your home

Three Common Places for Toilet Leaks

Toilets are highly reliable household appliances that could last up to 40 years. It is no wonder that toilet parts can become worn and develop leaks. In most instances, a leaking toilet can be fixed by simply replacing a few parts. Where you find the leak will help you determine what parts need replacing. Here are three common places homeowners in Fox Chase, PA, find toilet leaks:

Leaking From the Base
If the toilet is leaking from the base, it could signal:

• A broken wax seal
• Loose closet bolts
• Cracks on the toilet bowl

The wax seal keeps water from seeping out of the pipes when you flush. This can be replaced with a few tools. Likewise, loosened closest bolts can be tightened easily with a wrench. If it is small enough, a crack on the toilet bowl can be fixed with a porcelain sealant.

Leaking From the Shut-off Valve
A leaking shut-off valve can cause water to puddle around the base of the toilet if the packing nut has become loosened. To fix this, simply find the packing nut under the handle and tighten it with a wrench. If this does not stop the leaking, the shut-off valve must be replaced.

Running Inside of the Tank
A toilet that continues to run after it has finished filling the toilet bowl indicates a misadjusted float, a tangled chain, or a broken flapper. If you are experiencing this with your toilet, first check that the float is not adjusted too high. If you find that the float is set up properly, check that the chain is untangled and allowing the flapper to close. If water continues to run after readjusting the float and the chain, you should replace the flapper entirely.
Water damage caused by a bathroom or toilet leak is an attraction for mold and can ruin your flooring. If you have water damages in your home due to a bathroom leak, contact a water damage cleaning and restoration service to repair it.

Answering Your Questions About Mold

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Fox Chase, PA

Here Are Four Of The Most Common Questions Regarding Mold Growth

The vast majority of homeowners do have to deal with a black mold issue at some point. Mold has the potential to grow nearly anywhere in your Fox Chase, PA, home, provided the correct conditions exist. If you suspect that your home has fallen victim to a mold problem, yet you still don't know where to begin, then you have come to the right place. Here are four of the most common questions regarding mold growth:

1. Does Mold Go Away By Itself?
Mold is a living organism, so it's natural to assume that depriving it of its vital nutrients could cause it to die off on its own. Unfortunately, this isn't the case. Cutting off the mold's access to water and organic matter might temporarily halt its spread, but it will not kill the existing mold.

2. Where Does Mold Grow?
Black mold can grow anywhere the correct conditions exist. It's most commonly found in areas of your home that come into frequent contact with moisture, such as your kitchen, bathroom, basement, laundry room and garage.

3. How Do You Get Rid of Mold?
The size of the mold issue ultimately determines which approach you should take. You can address smaller mold cleanup projects using homemade cleaning mixtures that consist of equal parts water and white vinegar. Larger problems might require professional assistance, however.

4. How Can You Prevent Mold?
Mold needs water to grow, so cutting down on any existing moisture problem is your best course of action. You should also carefully monitor your indoor humidity levels to ensure that excess condensation isn't the root of the problem. Lastly, performing regular home inspections can help you catch mold problems before they spiral out of control.
Just because black mold is a common household affliction doesn't mean that you need to put up with it. Learning what causes the mold growth in your home and taking action to resolve the issue can help prevent future issues. Contact mold remediation experts for professional assistance.

How To Choose a Generator for Your Small Business

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

A commercial generator will automatically power on within minutes of a utility failure

How Do You Choose A Suitable Commercial Generator?

When the power goes out in Fox Chase, PA, there’s a small time window during which perishable items can be saved. Having backup power is critical for any business, but how do you choose a suitable commercial generator? Here are three tips to help you get started.

1. Determine What Kind You Need
What are the power needs of your business? Depending on how you operate, you may need a portable or stationary unit. If you need power on the go, a towable unit makes it easy to do business at remote locations. Traditional businesses usually benefit from having a unit installed outside the building. Each kind of unit is connected differently but offers the same ability to back up your business's power.

2. Learn How To Use Your Machine
Once installed outside your property, a commercial generator will automatically power on within minutes of a utility failure. An electrician hardwires the unit into the building so you won’t have to worry about turning it on yourself. These machines can run off existing propane or natural gas lines, which makes refueling unnecessary. Alternatively, towable units run on diesel fuel and need to be manually connected to the site on arrival. Read the owner’s manual for these units so you know what to do when on location.

3. Provide Proper Maintenance
Check your machine after every major weather event or utility failure, especially if you’ve had an emergency that required professional water cleanup. Prolonged use with improper loads can cause generator problems, so consult your electrician for the correct sizing for the expected load. This, along with a regular maintenance schedule and high-quality fuel, can help your engine last for 10,000 to 30,000 hours (or 20-30 years).
When you have the right generator for your business, you don’t have to worry that a utility failure will cause irreparable damage to your assets. This critical unit keeps your business running until power is restored.

Everything You Need To Know About Business Interruption Insurance

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Woodburne, PA

Learn More About How This Plan Can Benefit You After A Business Fire

When fire affects your Woodbourne, PA, business, you will need comprehensive insurance coverage. Business interruption is one of the most common additions you might see. While it initially seems like commercial or incident-specific insurance, it has major differences that determine the recovery efforts.

Areas Covered by Insurance
Stopping operations after a fire causes a stop on profits until recovery and reopening. An interruption plan accounts for this loss. Additionally, it covers charges that emerge during this period, including:

• Lease or rent bills
  
• Moving costs
  
• Continuing utilities (electricity, water, etc.)
  
• Taxes
  
• Employee payroll
  
  

Notice that it only covers money potentially lost from business shutdown and regular monthly costs. Other factors such as fire damage repair are covered by traditional commercial insurance policy.

Coverage Length
Another feature that differentiates business interruption coverage is the time limit. This type of plan takes between 48 to 72 hours to go into effect after the claim. The length depends entirely on how long the recovery of your business takes. Once the fire cleaning and repairing process is complete, your business can resume operations and you will no longer need this insurance. The coverage can last for several days, weeks and even months depending on the severity and extent of the damage.

Interruption Preparation
Even though interruption protection ensures your organization survives this incident, you can always minimize both the overall damage and the pause length with the right preparations. Besides the addition of this protection to your insurance strategy, you can thoroughly inspect the property and fix any potential issues that can escalate after a business fire. Work with a remediation company to create an emergency plan that is specifically designed for your commercial building.
While regular commercial property insurance can help you cover the costs of repairing fire damage, it does not include other aspects like profit loss and regular expenses. Add business interruption to the existing plan to keep your establishment strong during this time.

5 Common Water Issues for Commercial Buildings

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

Leaking faucets can drive up your monthly water bill

Here Are Five Common Water-Related Problems You Can Find In Your Building

Staying on top of smaller issues in your commercial building is one of the best ways to prevent them from snowballing into larger problems. Remaining vigilant is especially important when it comes to plumbing issues, such as leaking pipes or backed up toilets. Make sure you regularly check your building in Eddington, PA, for the following common water-related problems.

1. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can indicate several different issues, such as leaking pipes. Any water that escapes through the leak naturally won't come out of the faucet where it's supposed to, leading to suboptimal water pressure.

2. Damaged Building Foundation
Structural damage in your building, such as cracked, bulging or otherwise warped foundation, can signal the presence of a serious leak. These deformities are often a result of flood water accumulating within your building's structure and can indicate a hidden pipe break.

3. Clogged Drains
Customers are much less likely to treat your commercial bathrooms with the same respect that they'd treat a residential one. This can lead to many undesirable items getting flushed down your pipes, resulting in clogs. At the very least, this leads to an unsightly bathroom. In severe cases, it can result in toilet backup or sewage overflow.

4. Pinhole Leaks
Pinhole leaks are especially common in older buildings, where the copper or cast-iron pipes aren't built to last as long. These tiny holes can cost thousands in wasted water. Keep an eye out for these silent leaks by watching for a spike in your monthly water bill or a drop in your building's water pressure.
5. Leaking Toilets and Faucets
Much like pinhole leaks, dripping faucets and toilets can slowly, yet steadily, drive up your monthly water bill. Make sure you take the time to inspect your commercial bathrooms to make sure none of the appliances are dripping or leaking. Repair any problems you come across.
Leaking pipes, dripping faucets, and clogged drains are all common plumbing issues for commercial building owners. Staying on top of the issue can help reduce the amount of damage your building suffers and keep your business running smoothly. Contact water restoration experts for professional help.

4 Ways To Prepare for Flood Damage

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Tune in to local news stations for weather reports

Here Are Four Ways To Prepare For Flood Damage

Hurricanes and tropical storms can cause a devastating amount of damage, often leaving many people with costly repairs for their damaged homes, in Hulmeville, PA. Severe winds and heavy rains can cause flooding to occur rapidly, and it is important to take the necessary steps to prepare your home and mitigate any possible damage.

1. Stay Informed. Make sure you keep abreast of current weather conditions in your area. A weather radio is good to have on hand, but if you are unable to purchase one, you can tune in to local news stations for weather reports. You can also research your area to see if text or email alerts are available for inclement weather and emergency notifications.

2. Check Outside. Inspect the outside of your house for any areas that could leave your home susceptible to flash flooding. Clean gutters and storm drains and keep them free of any debris that could cause water backups. Check window seals and doors for any cracks that can allow water to seep in.

3. Prepare Inside. Protect your belongings by moving any documents, valuables and furniture off the ground. Move them to the highest floor in the house if you can. Install battery backups for your sump pumps to keep water out of the house if you lose power.

4. Know Who To Call. Be sure to have emergency contacts ready. In addition to having phone numbers of close friends and family to notify during an emergency, you should also keep the number of a professional storm cleanup and restoration company. These professionals are highly trained in storm damage and will help restore your home as quickly as possible and prevent any additional damage from occurring.
Flooding from storms and hurricanes can be terrifying and costly if you are not prepared. Proper planning and knowing who to call after the storm passes can help mitigate any losses or damage to your home.

5 Ways To Avoid a Cigarette Fire

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

A cigarette fire can quickly lead to disastrous results

Avoid a Cigarette Fire By Following These Tips

Cigarettes and other smoking-related materials are a leading cause of home fires in the United States. Unattended or improperly discarded smoking materials are particularly hazardous. Avoid a cigarette fire by following these tips for smoking safely around your home.

1. Always Smoke Outside
Smoking outside is generally a lot safer than inside. There are usually many items inside a residence that will easily catch fire by merely brushing against a lit cigarette.

2. Properly Extinguish Smoking Materials
Always fully extinguish burning cigarettes and matches. Even an ashtray fire can potentially lead to a disaster. Make sure your ashtray is deep enough to contain the debris. Smoking outside is much safer than inside, but it’s critical that you still take the proper precautions. Never throw a lit cigarette in the grass or on around any other flammable materials. A sand-filled bucket is a good option.

3. Don’t Smoke Sleepy
Whether in bed, on your sofa or reclining outside by the pool, never smoke while you’re sleepy. If there’s any chance that you might fall asleep, avoid lighting up until you’re fully awake.

4. Avoid Smoking in Bed
Smoking in bed is a poor decision whether you’re sleepy or not. A cigarette fire in bed can result in one of the more dangerous fire scenarios. Sheets and blankets can easily be set ablaze by brushing against a lit cigarette, or ash can fall off the cigarette into the bed. You might not realize it’s on fire until it’s out of control.

5. Never Smoke Near Medical Oxygen
NEVER smoke in the vicinity of a medical oxygen device. Even a tiny spark can set off a massive explosion. Shutting off the oxygen won’t guarantee that it’s safe to light up.
A cigarette fire can quickly lead to disastrous results. If your Feasterville, PA, home experiences fire damage of any kind, you can count on fire cleanup experts. They’ll return your home to its preloss condition as quickly as possible.

Tips for Controlling Your Mold Issue

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

Desinfecting area with mold growth

Use The Following Prevention Tips

Where there's moisture, mold is sure to follow. While many homeowners find peace in a bit of rain, others know that the weather is simply a harbinger for water damage and, consequently, black mold. If your home in Trevose, PA, experiences frequent mold growth after it rains, utilize the following prevention tips.

1. Implement Proper Home Ventilation.
Oftentimes, your home's moisture problem is a result of inadequate ventilation. After all, if the water vapor can't escape then it has no choice but to sit around and wait for mold to form.

2. Dry All Puddles and Standing Water.
This is a trick you need to be especially vigilant for, especially if your household has young children or pets. Tracking water into the house is a recipe for unwanted water damage, which eventually leads to black mold if not dried quickly and properly.

3. Disinfect Wet Spots.
If you believe that you didn't clean up a puddle quickly enough, give yourself some peace of mind by disinfecting the area. This can help discourage fungal growth and expedite your mold cleanup efforts.

4. Purify the Air.
Mold spores are everywhere, even if you can't see them. Investing in an air filter that's specifically designed to trap and eliminate mold spores can aid significantly in your mold prevention efforts.

5. Search for Signs of Leaks.
Leaks aren't always easy to find, especially if you don't take the time to look for them. Water stains in your ceiling often indicate the presence of a roof leak. Likewise, you should inspect your basement to make sure water isn't running down the walls. This could be a sign of a leaky foundation.
Implementing the above tactics can certainly help prevent water damage from causing unwanted mold growth, but they can't guarantee absolute safety. Next time you're faced with a significant mold problem, contact mold remediation experts for additional assistance.

4 Signs You Have a Leaky Shower

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

Stained ceiling in a Penndel, PA bathroom

Indicators That Can Help If You Suspect You Might Have a Leaky Shower

A shower or bathtub leak might seem like a relatively insignificant issue, but it can actually cause catastrophic damage if left untreated for too long. Unchecked water damage can cause subsequent issues, such as flooding and unwanted mold growth. Check your home in Penndel, PA, for the following indicators if you suspect that you might have a leaky shower.

1. Stained or Warped Ceilings
Before you head into the bathroom to begin your investigation, check the ceilings on the floor directly below your shower or bathtub. Any brown, coffee-colored stains on the ceilings are indicative of water damage. In extreme cases, you may notice that your ceiling is warped or bulging. This is a sign that water is accumulating in your ceiling and you need to contact professional help immediately.

2. Damaged Bathroom Walls
Look at your bathroom walls for similar signs of damage. You might notice that the paint or wallpaper is beginning to chip or peel, which is indicative of water damage caused by a shower or bathtub leak. Again, if your walls are bulging or warped, contact professional assistance as soon as possible.

3. Cracked or Broken Bathroom Floor Tiles
Your bathroom comes into frequent contact with water, so your floor tiles are naturally able to withstand moderate amounts of moisture. Any cracked or otherwise broken bathroom floor tiles are a sign that you might have a shower pan leak.

4. Mold or Mildew Growth
Mold and mildew both love moist environments, and it's not uncommon to find them growing in your bathroom from time to time. While occasional mold growth isn't necessarily indicative of a larger issue, you might want to investigate the problem if you notice that the fungus has been reappearing regularly.
A shower or bathtub leak is not an issue that should be taken lightly. You need to take immediate action if you notice one or more of the above water damage indicators. Contact water remediation professionals for help diagnosing and resolving the issue.

What To Do About Mold Odor

9/5/2020 (Permalink)

A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold

Mold growth in your Langhorne, PA, business can cause a multitude of problems, including an unpleasant odor caused by mycotoxin emission. Fortunately, this smell is not permanent and can usually be addressed fairly easily.

Identifying Mold Odor

Some mold species do not smell, but others produce a very strong smell. The type and location of the mold will determine its smell. The following adjectives are commonly used to describe the odors associated with mildew:

• Musty
  
• Wet
  
• Old
  
• Dank
  
  

If you suspect that you smell mold, the surest way to confirm is to locate the mold itself. Inspect your building for signs of an infestation. In addition to visible growth, these signs can include warping floors or walls, peeling or cracked paint and other types of deterioration. If you suspect the musty odor is coming from the HVAC system, you may be able to tell by turning the system off for a little while. If the odor weakens or disappears, it is likely that you have mold in your air ducts. If you cannot locate the source of the odor, professionals can be hired to inspect the property.

Addressing Mold Odor
Mold remediation will often eliminate the moldy odor. However, in some cases, the mold problem and mycotoxin production may have continued long enough that the odor has permeated the area. In this case, you can run an air purifier with a HEPA filter to trap the mycotoxins and mold spores. If possible, open windows and doors to let in fresh air. If the musty odor has set into fabrics, you may need to clean them using baking soda or vinegar.
The best way to eliminate the odor associated with mycotoxin emission is to remove the mold. Depending on the severity of the infestation, you may need to enlist the help of an experienced restoration service. They can help you get your business back to normal quickly and safely.

Tips on Troubleshooting Your Commercial Irrigation System

9/5/2020 (Permalink)

Check the irrigation system at your property

The irrigation system at your facility plays an important part in keeping your property aesthetically pleasing. Since a professional-looking property is inviting to visitors and prospective customers, you want to make sure your sprinkler system is working at top capacity. There are a few potential irrigation problems that can occur over time, so it's helpful to know a few troubleshooting tips.

Controller Doesn't Function Properly

If the water doesn't begin to spray when you turn on the system, a faulty controller may be the issue. Each spring before you turn on your sprinkler system in Bensalem, PA, make sure that all of the wires connected to the controller are in excellent condition. The wires inside the valve boxes should also be inspected, since they are the most prone to weather damage.

Water Pressure Is Too Low or Too High

In the case of low water pressure, make sure there isn't any blockage in or around the sprinkler head. If there isn't, you may have an underground leak that requires a professional to inspect.
If sprinkler heads begin to mist rather than spray a constant flow of water, this could indicate water pressure that is too high. If the pressure is too high, it can wear out the irrigation system quickly.

Sprinkler heads that help regulate water pressure are available if pressure is an issue.
Sprinkler Head Won't Pop Up
There may be something preventing the sprinkler head from popping up. Inspect for dirt or debris causing the head to stick.

Water Accumulates on the Lawn
Water that pools on the lawn can indicate a leak in the system, but improper drainage may also be the problem. If adjusting the watering schedule doesn't solve the problem, you should call a professional water repair service as soon as possible to avoid further water damage to the property.
Check the irrigation system at your property periodically so that it works at maximum efficiency.

Ways to Prevent Flooding in Your Building

9/5/2020 (Permalink)

Inspect the outside of your building

When flooding occurs in a commercial building, the costs can be devastating. In addition to property damage, employees may become displaced. Loss of profits can be monumental while renovations take place. While you can't protect your Cornwells Heights, PA, property in every circumstance, you can follow some smart flood prevention tips to help reduce the risks.

How To Protect Your Monetary Investment

The first step is to discuss your concerns with your insurance agent. Most commercial property insurance policies don't protect in the event of a flood or flood damage. Flood insurance is separate coverage that can be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program. Your insurance company should be able to give you the contact information.

How To Keep Your Employees and Building Safe
If your commercial building is located in a flood plain or low-lying area, it is likely at a higher risk for flooding. Even buildings on higher ground can be susceptible, however. Listed below are some smart flood prevention ideas to protect your employees and your property, no matter where the building is located.

Set up a routine maintenance schedule to periodically inspect the outside of the building and the roof. Look for cracks or weaknesses in the foundation and seal any suspect areas right away. Carefully inspect the roof for damaged or missing shingles and other roofing materials. Replace any damaged materials as soon as possible. Gutters and drains must be cleaned of any dirt and debris. Sump pumps and generators should be inspected frequently to ensure that they function properly when needed.
Create an emergency action plan and train all employees in how to handle any type of emergency. The plan should include evacuation routes and meeting places for employees and visitors, as well as the location of emergency kits.

Even the business owner who implements the best flood prevention techniques may still have flooding in their building. If you are in need of flood cleaning, make sure you call a water damage expert as soon as possible.

What to Do About Mold Odors in Your Home

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

HEPA filters are rated to remove 99.9% of particles .03 microns in size from the air that passes through

Mold Odor In Your Home? What To Do?

If you have noticed a persistent, musty odor in your home, you should find out if the odor is caused by a mold infestation that requires your attention. Mold is a common type of microscopic fungus that releases airborne spores as part of a reproductive cycle. While spores can be relatively innocuous, some types of mold release spores that contain a hazardous mycotoxin.

1. Determine if Your Home is Affected
Locating mold in your home can be relatively simple. Many forms are clearly visible as blotchy growths that form in warm, moist areas. While black mold is the most feared form of mold, it is advisable to remove any significant mold buildup whenever practicable. Black mold can actually refer to green or brown varieties, so you should never limit your search only to black colored types. Both mycotoxin and related volatile organic compounds cause a distinct, musty odor that can help you determine whether or not you have a problem.

2. Clean Your Home
While many common household afflictions are relatively simple to fix, mold remediation is tricky when attempted without expert help. Contact a cleanup professional who can provide you with the knowledge, equipment and personnel you need to restore your home quickly. If your problem is caused by a localized moisture problem, an expert may want to measure the moisture levels of your affected spaces so that freely traveling spores do not recolonize the places you just cleaned.

3. Use an Air Filter
After your living spaces are cleaned with an anti-fungal solution, you may still detect a musty odor. Make sure that the air in your house is thoroughly filtered with a HEPA filtration device. Increased airflow can also help to dehumidify environments that might otherwise collect moisture.
If you have had a mold infestation in Oakford, PA, you may be wondering if unpleasant odors will ever go away. Luckily, HEPA and other devices that improve air quality are better suited now than ever before at removing mycotoxin odors and preventing further damage to your home.

What is a Nor'easter?

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

The nor'easter is among the most infamous winter storm patterns in the United States

What Makes These Storms So Damaging?

The nor'easter is among the most infamous winter storm patterns in the United States. If you live in the eastern states, you are likely familiar with some of the downsides of having a home in the collision path of two opposing air currents, but you may still be wondering what makes these storms so damaging.

1. A Combination of Opposing Pressure Systems
Between the months of September and April, cold winds from Canada blow southward toward the Atlantic Ocean. Simultaneously, a warm ocean current heats the air, causing a low pressure system to form. The resulting clouds and precipitation soon move up the East Coast as a raging storm. Depending on the origin of air being redirected on the coast, experts refer to patterns as either Miller Type-A or Miller Type-B.

2. A Variety of Winter Weather
Chief among unknown nor'easter facts it that these events do not always produce the same weather phenomena. An infinite number of variables are responsible for winter storms, so snow, wind, rain, sleet and hail are all possible results of different conditions. You and your family should have a plan for flooding, extreme snowfall or high wind events. If you are not sure how to do this, ask a neighbor who has lived in your area for a long time.

3. An Event to Prepare for
Because a nor'easter can result in both damage to property and public infrastructure, it is advisable to keep plenty of supplies on hand during a storm. Some experts recommend keeping at least 3 full days of food stocked in your home in case snow or flooding leaves you stranded.
Read up on storms as much as you can. The more you know about winter weather patterns, the better you can prepare for the next weather event. If your Fox Chase, PA home has already been damaged by a nor'easter or winter storm, do not attempt complex restoration tasks on your own. Contact a storm restoration professional who has experience returning homes to working order.

How SERVPRO Helps Companies After Basement Floods

7/11/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration in Bensalem, PA

A basement flood can cause lots of damage to a commercial building in Bensalem, PA. Your clients will use their insurance coverage to pay for emergency restoration services. However, it is up to you to decide which cleanup company your clients use.

You should choose a restoration business with both corporate reach and local franchises that understand the challenges of a particular city. SERVPRO fits this description. In fact, it is a preferred vendor for most insurance agencies.

SERVPRO experts have the necessary experience to remove water from a flooded basement safely and efficiently. Here are the steps they follow:

1. Drain the Water

SERVPRO professionals know that a basement flood can be dangerous if it is not handled properly. If the water is higher than the outlets in the basement, electrocution could occur. The experts use a vacuum or pump to remove the water while staying outside the basement until it is safe to do so.

2. Remove, Replace and Restore

Items SERVPRO experts will do what they can to clean and restore the items in the basement. However, they also know that not everything is salvageable after a flood. They will help your clients remove and discard any mechanical or electrical equipment in the basement. They can also repair or replace carpet, wood trim and drywall affected by the water.

3. Implement Prevention Strategies

Once the cleanup is complete, your clients should take steps to prevent future floods. SERVPRO experts can provide helpful tips and guidelines for securing the property against water. For starters, clients should install foundation drains and properly discharge gutter downspouts.

The professionals from SERVPRO know the proper way to handle a basement flood. They will remove the water, dry damaged items and help your clients prevent future disaster. Follow the lead of other insurance agencies and use SERVPRO as the restoration company for your clients.

Potential Mold Damage in Commercial Building

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage to floor and potential mold

We received a call the other day about a basement that needed to be aired out at a nearby establishment because we had bad rain over the weekend.  We got there just in time because there was some mold starting to build up as well.  We needed to take out part of the floor to get to the damage.  While the business was not closed down due to the damage, the owners were still very thankful that we got there when we did.  They said that they've experienced severe water damage in the past and just wanted to be sure that this did not end up the same way.  If your business ever experiences water or mold damage, please do not hesitate to give us a call.

Friendly's Water Damage

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

A nearby Friendly's gave us a call recently about a pipe burst in their restaurant.  When the pipe burst it destroyed the entire carpet and even some of the seating in the building.  Being a larger establishment, the owner found it in their best interest to give us a call.  They mentioned they have used SERVPRO in the past at one of their other locations, and said they wouldn't trust anyone but us to get the job done.  In total, the work took about 3 days to complete.  Everyone was very happy, thinking the job was going to take much longer due to the amount of damage.

If and when a problem arises, please don't hesitate to give SERVPRO a call--we're here to help!

Preparing Your Business for a Flood

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

This Bensalem, PA commercial property was flooded after a rain storm. SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem and Fox Chase/Torresdale was quick to the scene!

Storms can be unpredictable. A small rain shower can cause major flooding in a hurry. If you are not properly prepared, this disaster could destroy your business. That is why you should follow the below steps to mitigate any potential harm.

1. Be Aware

Some areas are more prone to floods than others. You can use FEMA's flood map to determine the risk in Bensalem, PA. This will help you prepare accordingly. While some flash floods are unpredictable, meteorologists can alert you when other floods are coming. To stay informed, sign up for a national and community emergency notification system.

2. Protect Your Assets

Any valuable electronics should be placed on higher levels where they are less likely to be affected by flooding. You likely have plenty of important documents in your commercial building, as well. Store them in waterproof containers and consider creating cloud or digital backups.

3. Get Supplies

If the flood occurs during business hours, you need to have certain supplies on hand for your employees. Have your workers create emergency kits in case they have to evacuate the area. The kits should include first aid equipment along with batteries and chargers.

After the Storm Even if you follow the above suggestions, you could still sustain some flood damage to your property. Avoid checking out the destruction in person until authorities say it is safe to do so.

In the meantime, you can contact a commercial building restoration company. You should call the cleanup pros as soon as possible so they can remove any dangerous black water. If you or your employees do go back in the building, keep an eye out for any snakes or other wildlife. Make sure that everyone knows to stay away from any wet electrical equipment, as well. Flooding can cause incredible damage in a short amount of time. While you cannot always predict when the next flood will occur, you can make sure your assets and employees are protected.

How the Pros Respond to Widespread Disasters

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Carpet removal due to storm damage in Woodburne, PA

As a business owner, you do your best to prepare for emergencies. When the unexpected happens, it's nice to know you can call on experienced professional cleanup companies to restore your office and help return things to normal. The team at SERVPRO is equipped to handle even the most widespread disasters, thanks to a large network of resources. When you need disaster recovery services, the right help is just a call away.

What the Professionals Offer

SERVPRO employs skilled professionals who are accustomed to cleaning up after mold outbreaks, fires, flooding, and storm damage. There are many advantages to hiring SERVPRO, including:

• Same-day response
  
• Industrial-strength equipment and processes
  
• Excellent communication and reliable
• professionalism
  
  

All the Right Tools
Not all disasters in Woodbourne, PA, will be limited to your property. The worst incidents can affect neighborhoods, communities, and entire cities. Some companies wouldn't have the equipment to handle storm response of this magnitude. Some cleanup and restoration crews would be overwhelmed by the scope of the job. At SERVPRO, the team can call upon the corporate office to send additional supplies and tools to properly handle a task of any size.

Calling for Backup
If a job calls for more hands-on deck, SERVPRO can ask for more technicians on site. Local franchises are equipped to clean up after most disaster recovery calls. However, in the most widespread incidents, the team can request additional help to tackle the problem.

Processes You Can Count On
In order to clean up after a large storm, you need to know the technicians can do the job right. SERVPRO uses proven techniques to remove water, clean up damage, and restore building materials and belongings. You can rely on the technicians and their thorough approach.
Disaster recovery is not something you should have to face alone. Calling SERVPRO is your best bet for restoring your building and overcoming even the most disastrous emergencies.

Emergency Ready Profile

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it now.  

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research.  Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.  Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.  

Are you ready?  Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it's a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood.  The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.  No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it.  Now is the time to ask yourself, "Are you ready for whatever could happen?"

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services.  To schedule your free ERP, call SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem today!

What To Do About Noisy Water Pipes

6/7/2020 (Permalink)

If you do experience a pipe break, you will likely be dealing with water damage

If your water pipes are making a banging noise, you are at risk of a pipe break and flooding. However, it is possible to stop the banging and keep your pipes from bursting.

What Causes Noisy Pipes?

There are several reasons your pipes might make a banging sound. The following are some of the most common:

• malfunctioning air chamber
  
• excessive water pressure
  
• loose pipes
  
  

The air chamber works to absorb the shock caused when a valve closes. If the air chamber does not work, the shock can cause the pipes to bang. Water pressure being too high can also lead to a banging sound. If the pipes are loose, they may be noisy even if the pressure within the pipes is not very high. All of these issues can stress the pipes and lead to damaged connectors, leaks, or even a pipe break.

How To Fix Noisy Pipes?
To avoid a pipe burst or other serious problem, it is important to address the cause of the banging sound. If the problem is a waterlogged air chamber, emptying the water from the plumbing system should clear out the air chamber and allow it to work properly again. If this does not work, try installing water hammer arrestors between the supply lines (both hot and cold) and the shut-off valve. In cases where the problem is caused by excessive water pressure, it is important to lower the pressure in the pipes. Many homes have a pressure reduction valve that can be adjusted to reach the optimal water pressure level. If your home does not have such a valve, you can ask your municipal water authority to check the pressure for you. If loose pipes are causing the banging, make sure the stabilizing straps are secure and that none are missing.
If you do experience a pipe break, you will likely be dealing with water damage in addition to having to fix a broken pipe. Fortunately, an experienced restoration company can help you get your Penndel, PA, home back to normal quickly and safely.

Is There a Standard for Cleaning Mold?

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Mold found in a local Langhorne, PA home.

If you find mold in your commercial building in Langhorne/Bensalem, PA, you should call a mold remediation specialist to assess the situation. The professional you choose must be trained to properly and safely clean up the mold, following strict mold standards.

What Is ANSI/IICRC S520?

ANSI/IICRC S520 is the standard for the safe remediation of mold. When creating the mold standards, experts combined the principles of science, along with the practical knowledge of mold remediation specialists, to safely tackle the problem of mold cleanup. Experts from many fields were consulted when developing the standards, including:

• Public health professionals
• Scientists, including microbiologists
• Industrial hygienists
• Remediation professionals, including contractors and restoration service companies
• Cleaning and restoration trade associations and training schools

What Are the Three Components of ANSI/IICRC S520?

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) oversees the establishment of standards created for products, services and systems. They are a non-profit, private organization.

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) develops procedures that are designed for cleaning and restoring materials safely. The institute is also non-profit and provides helpful information for consumers.

S520 is the standard, developed by the IICRC, for the safe cleaning and remediation of mold.

Why Should You Call a Professional if You Have Mold in Your Building?

Professionals who have been trained in the ANSI/IICRC S520 procedures know where to look for hidden mold and any dormant spores in your building. They have the technical equipment needed for a thorough mold clean, and they can remove black mold from areas that are hard to reach. They can also prevent future mold growth by applying special cleaning products to surfaces. If you are looking for mold cleanup in your building, make sure the people you call are trained in the proper mold standards. They will quickly and safely remove the mold so that you can keep your operations running smoothly.

What Not To Do After a Flood

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

A local neighborhood flooded in Langhorne, PA

When floodwater invades your Langhorne/Bensalem, PA home, it can be overwhelming. Keeping a cool head is essential to a speedy recovery for your residence. Here are four things not to do after a flood.

1. Don’t Refuse To Leave
   From crunchy peanut butter to your favorite football team, there are plenty of things that are worth taking a stand for. Your flooded home is not one of them. It may be a cliché, but it’s true: Things can be replaced. People can’t. When the water starts to rise — and especially if officials order you to leave — get moving. Ride things out with friends or relatives, or stay at a hotel.
   
   
2. Don’t Walk on Wet Carpet
   Walking on carpeting that’s wet or completely underwater only forces the water deeper down and further afield from its point of origin. In order to prevent the spread of water and mold-causing contaminants below the surface, avoid carpeted rooms altogether if you can.
   
   
3. Don’t Try To Vacuum Up the Flood Water
   Your vacuum may be great at sucking up spilled pretzels or pet hair, but it’s not meant for water. At best, you can ruin your vacuum. At worst, you can subject yourself to an electrical shock.
   
   
4. Don’t Try to Clean Up the Water Damage Yourself
   After all members of your household are safe and sound, one of the first calls you should make is to a flood damage restoration company. Its technicians will have the tools and expertise required to safely return your home to normal.

 Generally speaking, you can expect the company to come to your home, perform an assessment to determine the full extent of the damage, and clean and sanitize your home. Many companies also perform repairs.
It’s easy to make rash decisions in the face of floodwater. You may be tempted to hold firm despite repeated warnings or to start cleanup with whatever you have on hand. Ultimately, however, the best — and the safest — way to begin the recovery process is to exercise caution and leave the heavy lifting to the professionals.

4 Situations To Watch for Regarding Mold in Your Building

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Mold found in a kitchen in Bensalem, PA

The best outcome for your business in Langhorne/Bensalem, PA, is to prevent a mold infestation from occurring in your building in the first place. This can be done with a bit of mold prevention. These actions only require a little bit of education about how mold spreads, and a bit of vigilance on the part of all workers. Here are four situations that can prevent mold growth or catch it early.

1. Watch for Water Leaks. Mold thrives in warm and moist conditions. This often is caused by a form of water damage, such as from a leak in the roof during a storm or from a plumbing problem. Excess water creates fertile conditions for mold spores to form into colonies. A swift repair of the leak, and a drying out of the area, is a standard protocol for mold prevention in a commercial building. Mold spores, almost always present in low levels, are unlikely to proliferate in a dry environment.
   
   
2. Heed Musty Odors. The presence of a stale, musty odor is one of the telltale signs of mold growth. It is not unusual for mold to be hidden, but the odor can still be detected. If you can smell the mold, you likely already have a problem and it is time to call in a qualified mold remediation team.
   
   
3. Watch for Discolored Patches. Mold oftentimes forms into patches or blotches on walls or ceilings. This will probably occur in moist rooms that have experienced a water leak or that have high humidity. Once these patches are found it is time to take action.
   
   
4. Get Testing. A reliable mold test should be conducted by a trained technician and analyzed by a professional lab. This is the most accurate form of mold prevention and will tell you if you have a mold infestation. Catching the problem early makes mold cleanup quicker and less expensive.

Make Sure That Your Solar Panels Can Withstand Storms

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

A tree falls on a local home during a storm in Langhorne, PA

Solar panels are a great way to reduce energy usage in your home. Since they are installed on the outside of your house, they also take a beating from harsh hail and wind storms in Langhorne/Bensalem, PA. To reduce the risk of panel damage, keep these suggestions in mind.

How To Ensure My Panels Are Strong

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) released a report in which they had conducted annual surveys of panel systems that had been installed from 2009 to 2013. Of the 50,000 systems surveyed, only 0.1% had shown damage or malfunctions. Part of the success can be attributed to the extensive testing conducted by panel manufacturers. Check to make sure your manufacturer has followed these guidelines.

Hail testing - Most panels are certified to resist panel damage caused by hail of up to 1 inch in diameter at 55 mph.

Hurricane testing - Most panels are tested to ensure they can withstand winds of up to 140 mph. The glass or aluminum castings that hold the panels are also waterproof.

How To Conduct Routine Maintenance on Panels

In order to ensure your panels continue to function properly, you should conduct routine maintenance.

Keep them clean - Dirt and debris can build up over time, so you should clean your panels on a regular basis with water. Also, brush away any tree branches that can hamper their functionality. While you are up there, check for roof damage and call a professional for repairs.

Install a panel cover - Even though panels are very sturdy, some come equipped with a cover. If so, make sure it is installed correctly by a professional.
Add a monitoring system - These systems, which must be installed by an expert, can detect and diagnose any problems with the system.

Installing solar panels will ensure that you are reducing your carbon footprint. Just make sure they are installed professionally to prevent panel damage or malfunctions.

How to Properly Make a Flood Damage Claim

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

A flooded school in Langhorne, PA

Water can inflict massive damage on your home if you're not careful. Though you can prepare yourself against many issues, some types of flooding may occur without warning. If you need to make a flood claim, there are ways you can help the process go more smoothly. Make sure you follow the following advice so you can get the financial help you need. 

Gather Evidence

To make an insurance claim, your provider will want details about how the flood began and what was damaged or lost. Before you call your agent, it's best to do the following:

• Take pictures of the extent of the damage in your home.
• Write down belongings that were damaged or destroyed as well as building materials that were affected.
• Make note of any injuries you or family members may have suffered.

Get in Touch With the Professionals

Cleaning up after a flood can be time-consuming, pain-staking work. Unless the water damage is minor and only covers a small area, you should contact a professional water restoration company. These companies have skilled technicians with experience and the right equipment to clean up the water in your home. The professionals will arrive promptly and assess the situation. Crews will extract all the water, thoroughly dry and sanitize the area and restore any damaged or ruined materials. After you make a flood claim, the insurance company and the cleanup company will coordinate their efforts and work out a payment.

Stay out of the Way

What You Need to Know About a Nor'easter

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Keep safe all year by being alert and prepared for an approaching nor'easter

Anyone living on the Eastern Seaboard is familiar with a nor'easter storm. Thankfully, these storms don't hit too often, but when they do, they bring along heavy rain or snow, howling winds and stormy seas. To protect your home in Cornwells Heights, PA  from flooding and other damage these storms can bring, let's take a look at some Nor'easter facts, including how the storms are formed and the trouble they can cause.

How Are These Storms Formed?

Two types of weather conditions can cause nor'easter storms, Miller Type A and Type B, as classified by J. E. Miller in 1946.

Miller Type A - These "classic" storms originate in the Gulf Coast and work their way up the coast to the Northeast. The storms are most common in the colder months of the year when cold air from the North travels down to the South where it meets much warmer air. This combination provides the perfection conditions for the storm.
Miller Type B - Much less common than the classic storms, these begin as cyclones in the Midwest that travel east. They break up somewhat in the Appalachian Mountains, then pick up steam again on the East Coast.

What Dangers Should You Be Aware Of?
In the winter months, these storms can cause heavy snow and wind. Power outages from downed trees and icy roads are common. To ensure your safety, keep abreast of weather conditions. Stock your pantry with enough food to get through the storm and stay at home when the storm approaches.
In warmer weather, strong winds and heavy rains can cause significant flooding and other damage to your home. Plan ahead by checking the weather report for any oncoming storms. Make sure your sump pump is in working order and your roof is in good shape. Keep your trees pruned to minimize the risk of downed tree branches.
Keep safe all year by being alert and prepared for an approaching nor'easter.

How to Clean Category 3 Water Damage

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Drying a commercial building after water damage in Feasterville, PA

How to Clean Category 3 Water Damage

Flood water can leave your business in Feasterville, PA, inoperable. You need to get it cleaned and restored quickly to minimize lost revenue and impact on your customers. Since category 3 water is considered the most contaminated of all water sources, it is important to clean it correctly and minimize your exposure.

1. Identify the Source
Identifying where the water came from is usually a good first step in determining its potential for contaminants. Some common sources of category 3 water are a flood, a burst sewage line, and a toilet overflow.
2. Protect Yourself
This type of water can contain pathogens that may be harmful to human health such as viruses, bacteria, heavy metals, and environmental toxins. You should not make contact with the water. If you must, then you should wear protective clothing or gloves and wash with soap afterward.
3. Dry the Area
In the case of flood water, you will probably need someone with specialized equipment to extract the water. Professionals may use industrialized blowers to complete the drying process in as little time as possible.
4. Disinfect
Even after the water is gone, the area is still unsafe to enter because harmful substances can be left behind. If you are dealing with only a small area, like a bathroom floor, you could use a bleach solution to disinfect. However, larger areas will need the help of a professional with access to a variety of disinfectants and biocides.
5. Restore and Replace Damaged Items
Some materials may have sustained a considerable amount of damage and may need to be replaced. Carpet that has been submerged could need to be pulled up and replaced or new drywall might need to be installed.
Returning your business to normal after flood water damage involves more than just wiping up the water. By working with a professional restoration company, you can have your building restored as quickly and safely as possible.

Can Mold Be Identified by Odor?

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Professional mold testing and lab analysis are necessary to identify mold species

With over 100,000 identified species of mold and more than 10,000 species that can thrive indoors, it is impossible to accurately identify fungi growing in a structure by sight or smell. A musty odor indicates that mold or mildew may be growing, but is not the same as mycotoxin. Find out more about the causes and characteristics of mold-related odors.

Common Mold Odors

Mold has a distinctive odor. Any of the following characteristics suggests that mold may be present in a structure:

• Earthy odors
• Fermentation odors
• Rotten odors
  

The musty odor that is typically associated with mold originates from compounds released during the active growth cycle. Dried spores from dormant growth do not produce as many of these compounds.

Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds
Mold in the active growth cycle releases microbial volatile organic compounds as off-gases. These byproducts of the metabolic process may include acids, alcohols, aldehydes, ethers, esters, and ketones. Different mVOCs produce unique odors. The presence of any odor that could be classified as moldy may indicate that these compounds are present and that mold could be growing in a structure.

Air Sample Analysis
Professional mold testing and lab analysis are necessary to identify mold species and determine whether a fungus produces mycotoxin. A device such as an airborne particle collector, cassette sampler, or impaction sampler may be used for this type of testing. It can take several days for the results of lab analysis to become available. Having more detailed information about mold species is helpful for determining containment requirements for mold remediation.
If a moldy odor is detectable in a building in Trevose, PA, the property owner or manager should arrange for professional testing. He or she should not attempt to locate mold hidden behind walls or over ceiling tiles. Disturbing a colony in any stage of growth could result in exposure to spores, mVOCs, and mycotoxin.

Here to Help 24/7

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, even on weekends and holidays!

SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, even on weekends and holidays!  When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is critical.  Delays can greatly increase the severity of the water damage, causing increase in repair costs and extending the time it takes to repair.

We know that when you call for our services, you may be feeling overwhelmed.  You need industry experts to guide you through the restoration process.  SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem has the certified training and industry experience to help you through this difficult time.

We are by the phone ready to respond, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week- call 215-600-1497 today! We'll make it "Like it never even happened."

The Finances of Flood Damage

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

What would you do if your business flooded tomorrow?

When a major storm hits your commercial business, it can be a financial disaster, too. Therefore it's important to pursue all of the potential benefits available to you. Repairing storm damage to your property can run into the thousands of dollars and many small businesses might not have sufficient savings to cover the expenses. Fortunately, your commercial insurance policy will cover some of these costs, after a deductible is paid. Other insurance options such as business interruption insurance and extra expense insurance may also kick in, though not all companies have this coverage. A number of expenses above and beyond an insurance claim could be tax deductible.

Looking Into Tax Benefits

When it comes to federal, state and local tax laws it always make sense to speak with a tax professionals. This allows you to claim all qualifying storm damage expenses. In general, the following expenses may be eligible for a tax write-off:

• Water damage expenses not paid by insurance
  
• Cleanup and recovery expenses
  
• Hurricane and tornado damage
  
  

Your initial efforts should concentrate on an insurance claim. An experienced storm mitigation team in Langhorne, PA, can help you organize your paperwork for the insurance company. With photos, spreadsheets and online communications an itemized record of expenses and losses can be sent to the insurance company. This enables a fast and efficient claims process that gets needed money into your hands fast.

Pursuing Other Options

If the storm damage that hits your company is part of a larger storm and has been declared a federal or state disaster area, other sources of financial help could become available. This includes low interest loans that help you borrow money to buy damaged equipment, replace lost inventory and pay employees. When disaster strikes, you need all of the help you can get or your company could never reopen. Working with companies and agencies that are Here to Help can make a big difference.

We Are Cleaning Experts

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is performing all cleanup and bioremediation in accordance with the guidelines provided by the CDC and local authorities.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis. The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas

• Bathrooms

• Schools/Classrooms

• Offices

• Retail Spaces

• Water Fountains

• Shelving/Racks

• Sales Counters

• Carpets and Rugs

• Stair Handrails

• Elevator Cars

• Playground Equipment

• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus.

Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts at SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem and Fox Chase/Torresdale  (215) 608-1894

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

More than Meets the Eye

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

To the naked eye, the ceiling may seem unaffected by a fire, but upon closer inspection, you can see there is a layer of soot in need of remediation.

Sometimes a little smoke can do a lot of damage.  Sure, it's easy to identify when a fire causes major damage, but what about when a small fire leads to smoke all the way on the other end of the structure?  

If you unknowingly hire an inexperienced contractor or restoration company, you may end up with lingering smoke odors for weeks, months, or even years.  This is because you need the expertise of certified soot cleaners.  Technicians and project managers who know exactly where and what to look for that could lead to lingering odors.  For instance, a small hole in a ceiling or an exterior wall could be big enough to let soot particles in and affect insulation behind the walls.  Additionally, running a central air system could potentially lead to circulating the soot throughout the structure.  

These are just a couple of examples of small details that, if not properly identified & addressed, could lead to unnecessary lingering odors.  

Luckily we are here to help!  Call us any time and we will happily provide an inspection & estimate!

Water Heater Leak

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

This water heater caused severe damage to this homeowner's finished basement

It always happens when least expected...you're about to clean dishes and the water won't warm up, or you're about to shower and the water is freezing!  Hopefully, these are fixed by an easy repair to your water heater.  Unfortunately, sometimes, these issues could mean you have a leaking water heater that needs to be replaced.

Sometimes you'll go into your utility room and see a foot of standing water from the leaking water heater!  Other times, it might just be a small puddle or damp carpet near the water heater.  Either way, elevated moisture within a dwelling could lead to mold colonization if the moisture level is not corrected by professionals.  Don't let your property's value decline due to something as simple as a leaky water heater!  Call SERVPRO and let us restore your property right away!

Soot Mess

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

This homeowner, understandably, couldn't believe the living room fireplace caused soot to reach their bedroom carpet!

Sometimes you don't realize how extensive a damage to your property is.  Often times, in the cases of puffbacks and chimney mishaps, it may seem like a just a little soot has landed on your walls, floors, or personal belongings.  However, after making an attempt(s) at cleaning the soot themselves, many customers will call us for an estimate days, or even weeks, later.  This is because they've discovered that the soot reached areas of the homes they thought unimaginable, and now need professional cleaning help.

Though we find a valiant effort has been made by the home or business owner to clean the soot themselves, often times they are not equipped with the proper cleaning tools & products for the long and tedious process.  Did you know, this type of damage is typically considered a "covered loss" by the majority of insurance providers?  Why struggle with the agony and hours of cleaning your property yourself when you can call SERVPRO for a professional cleaning today!

Residential Fire

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Insulation can be a culprit in retaining smoke smell after a fire if not properly removed & replaced.

Cleaning up after a fire can be a daunting task.  Depending on the severity of the blaze, not only is there the physical task of performing demolition and inch by inch cleaning, but there is also the emotional toll of sorting through charred personal belongings and possibly heirlooms.  

SERVPRO is here to relieve that stress for you.  We have the knowledge and expertise to perform and properly document any and all necessary demolition, cleaning, contents inventorying/cleaning, and contents moving/storing.  This will allow you to focus on day to day priorities in the aftermath of a fire, like getting to work on time, taking the kids to school, etc... rather than focusing on the physical and emotional clean up of the fire damage itself. 

Soot Cleaning

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

This photo gives some idea as to the size of the warehouse & detailed nature of work to be performed

Recently SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem was called to a large commercial space of about 50,000 square feet.  Unfortunately, the business was a victim of circumstance when their neighbors decided to light a pile of debris on fire outside of their facility.  Due to the amount of debris that was set ablaze, and due to open windows in the business's warehouse, the building's entire interior was exposed to the smoke damage.  This allowed soot to enter and affect the entire building.  A loss of this size can be devastating to any business operation.  Luckily, the building owner called SERVPRO to remediate the damage.  Not only did we clean the warehouse and office structure so that business operations could resume, but we also brought in several subcontractors to inspect & fix specialty items; including computer systems, HVAC systems, proprietary electronics & appliances, and masonry experts.  Due to our quick and professional response, the business began operating a portion of their services within just 1 day of calling us, and the entire business was stabilized and operable after just a few more days.

Sump Pump Losses

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Pictured is an actual sump pump caught in the act of victimizing a local homeowner.

We see them all the time: significant storm events.  It may be surprising to many homeowners that the most common damage in our area is caused, not by leaky windows or roofs, but by a sump pump failure.  Whether it is due to temporary loss of electricity, or just the inability of the pump to function correctly, homeowners with a sump pump can sometimes experience a water damage.  Add in a finished basement, that could be a recipe for a lot of damage!  "And if you have a cut-rate insurance company policy, you could be paying for the repairs yourself."

So if you want to avoid mayhem, here are a few things you can do to protect yourself:

1) Speak to your insurance agent or provider to see about adding coverage to your policy specific to sump pumps.  Many times, it is very low-cost to add this coverage, but insurance agents do not include it automatically.  You don't want to find out after the damage!

2) While you will be anxious to get your property fixed, many times insurance coverage is limited on sump pump damage.  Therefore, you may want to get an estimate first.  The restoration company may need to see the property in-person to provide an accurate estimate, and this will surely delay the drying process, but it may ultimately save you dollars and cents.

So to sum up, make sure that you check your policy for coverage on sump pumps so that your insurance provider helps you with the repairs.  And also be sure that you contact a reputable restoration company that is willing to provide you an estimate up front, like SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem!

Customer Service

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Preparing a space for proper content/personal possession assessment, inventorying, cleaning, packing, and storing.

Customer service isn’t just about being courteous to your customers–it’s about being attentive to our customers' needs and doing the job professionally and correctly- the first time!  

SERVPRO's customer service is like no other.  We are there to help and we will tailor our drying plan to your specific needs!  Whether it be accommodating your busy work schedule, being cognizant of health concerns, or even just as simple as being friendly to the family pet, SERVPRO is there to help you with your damage by providing exceptional customer service!  

We also know that we are not just there to dry the structure.  We are also there to restore your contents.  We understand that not every personal possession strictly has a monetary value.  Some possessions have sentimental value as well.  Many restoration companies neglect this fact, but SERVPRO will take as much time and care as necessary to help with your possessions!

Going The Extra Step

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

These soot-covered flowers were of significant value to our customer, so we took the time to clean & restore them as opposed to just throwing away.

Here at SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem & Fox Chase/Torresdale, we take pride in our customer service.  While many restoration companies have capable technicians, with similar abilities and/or certifications to restore or demo carpet, drywall, wood flooring, and other building materials, we try to stand apart based on our customer service.  It is our primary focus.  In order to stand out from the crowd, our Company Mission is "To Create Happy Customers".  

When you have a significant loss at your property, most companies will focus on restoring the structure itself, because it is quicker and easier.  But what about your high-value possessions, such as heirlooms or gifts?  We take the time to get to know you, and what is important to you beyond the physical structure of your home or business.  

Most restoration companies can demo & dry your property if properly certified, but can they restore your prized-possessions and restore your peace of mind?  That's our focus, and we are eager to help any customer in need.

You've Had a Fire Damage - What Happens Next?

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Pictured is an air scrubbers we placed at a smoke-damaged property

Fire damages can be the worst type of losses a person or family can experience.  And while everyone is anxious to get their property and personal items restored, unfortunately, the process can be slow moving at first.  At SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem, we recommend placing negative air fans (aka air scrubbers) at your property as soon as the fire department allows access.  Depending on the severity of the damage, these machines can help to limit cross-contamination, and limit the smoke odor. 

It is important to let the restoration professionals and insurance adjusters assess the situation before rushing to clean or replace damaged items & structural materials.  This will allow for proper restoration and end up saving you from future frustrations.  

There are also a few things that can be done before the full restoration process begins, such as:

• Place air scrubbers (as stated above)
• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and causing additional damage
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet
• Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces
• Do not clean any electrical equipment

Unfortunately, fire & smoke damage does happen.  Here at SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem, we are happy to help you in your time of need, 24/7/365.

Apartment Complex Mess

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

We had a call in the other day for a complex that needed assistance with both water and mold damage from the excessive rain we have been experiencing lately.  The Property Owner expressed to us how thankful he was for us responding to his call and moving so quickly.  We actually made an agreement leaving the complex to clean his carpets and vents weekly as well.  He said he'd be more than happy to recommend out SERVPRO to any of the nearby complexes in the area.

Why SERVPRO?

We are diverse in the service we offer.  Please do not hesitate to give us a call if you or someone you know experiences Fire, Water, Mold damage as well as the need for carpet/vent cleaning.

Keurig Mess in House

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage to Kitchen and Living Room

We were called in recently to tend to a kitchen fire that was caused by a keurig.  While we never figured out exactly what caused the fire, it was evident there was much damage.  Including the living room carpet as well.  Many people associate SERVPRO with just water and mold damage.  We like to make it known we not only tend to these issues, but cleaning up fires happens to be one of our most important jobs we get called in to take care of.  It means a lot to us to try our very best to salvage your prized items and save your memories.  If you or anyone you know experiences fire damage in their home--please don't hesitate to give SERVPRO a call.

Basement of Library

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

Library Basement Damage

We had a call in the other day to tend to a nearby library with extreme water damage.  While we were there, we also found some mold damage, as well.  We had to remove everything out of the basement and open up the doors to let some light in due to the musty smell.  The manager of the library thanked us deeply because some of the left over books they had down there were damaged as well.  We ended up securing a weekly job vacuuming this clients carpets as well because they loved our work so much.  If you, a friend or business you know of ever need assistance with water, mold, or fire damage--please do not hesitate to call us here at SERVPRO!

Summer Storm Carpet Damage

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Carpet ruined in storm

Here is a carpet that our team had to rip up the other day due to storm damage throughout the entire house.  Water seeped through the upstairs, downstairs, and living room carpet.  When we were called we were honest about saying we weren't sure if we could salvage the damage this time around because it was so severe.  If this is the case, we have back up connections to refer out to help our potential clients just in case they need to get a hold of us in the future for any reason.  This case however, ended up turning around and we figured out a way to save all of the carpet.  Our customers were very pleased that they didn't need to pay for a new carpet and said they'll definitely be using our services again. 

Carpet Catastrophe

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Carpet damage from water

Here's an example of a water damage job that our team got called in for this past week.  With all the flooding we've been having our client had a leak in the roof and ended up leaving it until another storm happened.  Unfortunately, their entire living room carpet had to be ripped up because the issue wasn't tended to initially.  Please never feel afraid or wait too long to call SERVPRO.  With these months of lots of rain, we don't want to make flooding more of a hassle than it already is in some peoples' homes.  We offer free estimates and our goal is to make you feel as comfortable in your home, while we get done the job as quick as possible.

Water Damage to Furniture and more...

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

Couch water damage in living room

On the regular, we tend to residential homes that have water damage to their furniture.  In this case, we were brought in to salvage a couch and the surrounding floor area in the living room due to water leakage from upstairs and through the roof.  When we hurry in to take care of a job, we always make sure that the customer is okay with what we are doing.  We walk you through the process because we want you to feel as comfortable in your home as possible while we are in there taking care of things.  If you, yourself, or someone you know is experiencing water damage in their home currently, please don't hesitate to call us here at SERVPRO.  We're here to help and make your life less stressful!

Typical Mold Buildup

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

Mold throughout house

This is an example of a call we got a month or so ago at a nearby residential home.  We were called in right after this family had severe flooding in their home.  When we arrived and took care of the water damage, there was also some mold that built up due to the damage.  We did what we could to save everything in their home.  Fortunately when a client wants an estimate, we have an outside party that we are partnered with that assists us in measuring the amount of mold/and the type of mold in the affected area.  We have a collaborative mindset here at SERVPRO and strongly believe this is the way to get tasks done more quickly, efficiently, and make everyone happy in the long run.

Fire Throughout Entire House

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Keurig fire

We got called in to tend to a residential fire a few weeks ago nearby.  We had all hands on deck for this job.  A Keurig caught on fire and the entire house burnt because of it.  Luckily, no one was hurt and everyone got out in time safely.  Fires are one of the more severe jobs we tend to.  SERVPRO is partnered with many fire departments around the area and we pride ourselves on quick response.  If you happen to encounter a fire, please don't hesitate to give us a call to so we can help salvage anything we can.  Many of these incidents are a very painful and emotional time for the customer.  We want to make times like this as easy and least stressful for our clients as possible.

Storm Water in Basement

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded nearby home

Here is an example of damage that was done to the basement of a home nearby our office.  The living room as well as the entire basement was completely under water from the storms we have been having recently.  Our office was called in the middle of the night to tend to the job and we had majority of the damage cleared out by morning with a few air movers still placed for the remaining damage.  We like to make it known to our customers that we are available any time of the day, no matter how severe the water damage--please don't hesitate to reach out.  We are here to help and make your life a lot less stressful and easier during incidents as such.

Typical Water Estimate

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage to nearby church

We are constantly being called out to jobs to check out damage done weekly.  Sometimes, when we are called out to assess the damage-we either figure out that we are unable to help due to something major we are not authorized to do... or sometimes, managers and owners decide to take care of the issue themselves.  And hey, that is A-OK with us!  We provide free estimates to our community because we genuinely want to help and give input whenever we can to assist.  Even if that does mean we don't "land the job."  To us, landing a job means getting a call in to provide expertise on the subject.  And who knows, maybe down the line the customer will need us in the future.

Carpet Water Damage

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

Nearby water damage to workplace

Here is an example of water damage we got called into help with over the course of the last week.  We've been having lots of rain lately contributing to the water restoration workload.  This office called us when water started seeping through their walls and ceilings onto the floor after a storm a few days ago.  We got the call and were there within the hour.  Many times we get called into commercial buildings, the damage is usually spread out which means "all hands on deck" on our end to fix the issue.  We got the job done within a few days and the company was up and back running within 3 days.  They were very satisfied with our work and told us they will definitely be utilizing our services in the future.

Closet in Apartment Complex

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

Closet Water Damage

Here is an example of of a closet we got called into with water damage.  Unfortunately, due to the many storms we've been having more than one closet was ruined in various apartments.  The complex thought it would be a good idea to call us in after the facilities team tried cleaning them themselves countless times.  In hopes to save themselves time--we were told that we were the first company they thought of since we have done some water and mold remediation and damage in past.  The job took about a total of three days to air everything and complete the job in full.  Luckily, there was no mold damage this time so our team got the job done very quickly without disturbing all of the residents too much.

Sump pump Damage

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Clearing sump pump water damage

Over the course of the last couple weeks there have been numerous calls about water damage from Storms.  We had a specific call the other day about a sump bump that overflowed due to all the water from the rain.  Our client was very worried about the damage and did not want to wait until the weekend was over to take care of the issue.  Our team was readily available for them and we arrived at their house the next day to take care of the issue.  SERVPRO prides themselves on efficiency and gets the job done as fast as possible each time.  If yourself, friend, family member, etc.--ever needs our services last minute, please pick up the phone and call SERVPRO!  We're always here to help.

Townhome Storm Damage

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

Pool water overflow into gym

Here is an example of a job we received a call for a few weeks ago after a big storm had hit.  An apartment complex's pool overflowed into the gym and basement as well.  Our team was called in quickly to tend to the issue to dry out the damage.  While we were there we also tended to some of the units since there was some water that had seeped through the ceilings, too.  The property manager was very impressed with our work and stated that from there on out, we would be his main point of contact for emergencies in case something were to happen again.  If and when storm damage happens on your property, whether it be commercial or residential--please don't hesitate to call SERVPRO!

Moving Out

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

Storm Damage to furniture

This is an example of a customer who called us urgently with a concern when she was moving out.  There had been a storm recently and there was severe water damage done to all our client's furniture.  We used a couple of creative drying methods (more plastic and tubes like the attached picture) to save the most of the building materials and her couch.  She was thrilled with how fast we got everything done and how many items we were able to salvage, since she was right in the midst of moving out of her home.  SERVPRO is here to take care of any of your drying needs--from floors to counter tops, to couches and more.  Please don't hesitate to give us a call if you're feeling stressed at all.  We're here to help!

Diner Disaster

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Ceiling of diner destroyed from fire

Here is an example we got called into tend to recently.  A nearby diner we are acquainted with had a fire in their back room damaging much of their ceiling.  Typically, fire damage is tougher and takes longer to restore.  The owner and manager of this diner we very worried about the amount of time it would take to fix everything.  For a job we initially anticipated to take about a week, as a team we ended up completing in three days time.  Our client was very impressed and was overjoyed that they could re open their facility sooner than they thought.  Here at SERVPRO we're not only efficient with our work we our courteous of your business' time.  We understand the importance of being open for service as much as possible and are always here to help if a problem arises!

Carpet and Vent Cleaning

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Carpet Cleaning (Residential & Commercial)

Why SERVPRO?

I'm sure when SERVPRO comes to mind for most people they think of our main services: Fire, Water, and Mold Restoration, being that they are some of our "bigger" jobs and services we get called into.  That being said, we also tend to residential and commercial carpet and vent cleaning as well.

We tend to focus heavily on apartment complexes when it comes to carpet and vent cleaning, being that the need to clean the units is more frequent.  However, we also have serviced residential single homes who need their homes cleaned, too.  As far as commercial goes, hiring a service to come and clean for you is a great idea!  Many restaurants we service have told us repeatedly how thankful they are that we've stepped in, when needed, so they can focus on more important aspects of the business.

Basement Disaster

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage behind basement walls

We had a call here at SERVPRO this week for water damage in a clients' basement over the weekend.  The upstairs toilet leaked and unfortunately leaked through the entire floor.  If it wasn't enough as it was that our clients' furniture was damaged, his basement floor and walls had sever water damage as well.  He knew he wouldn't be able to take care of the issue himself, so he decided to call us right away.  Our client didn't think twice about calling us since he had used our services before when he had a fire in his kitchen upstairs.  He knew we'd be a reliable source and get the job done efficiently.  He said he will be referring us out to family and friends in the future if another problem arises.

Water Damage (triplex)

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Ground level of water damage to entire triplex

Here is an example of a call we received about water damage done at triplex building.  There was a water leak on the third floor, which ended up seeping down and affecting the two units below it as well.  The pictures shown here are on the ground floor.  The water went through the living room, kitchen, and hallway.  Due to this affecting so many properties, it was clear to the landlord that he needed to call SERVPRO right away.  He mentioned when he spoke with us, he was overwhelmed with what had happened and was very happy he decided to call our office.  The help allowed him to put his mind at ease and know that the damage would be fixed very quickly and efficiently.  

Hard Wood Floor Rescue

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Saving new hard wood floor

Here is an example of a customer we had that had water damage to their new hard wood floors.  Our client was very worried about ruining the floors they just put in, so they called us here at SERVPRO Langhorne/Bensalem to help with their trouble.  Having seen this time and time again on hardwood floors with severe water damage, we were able to approach the situation appropriately and salvage the new floors.  Why SERVPRO you ask?  We have been recognized for our delicacy and tactics to save certain types of flooring as opposed to our competition.  Or, many times--clients assume it is a better idea just to take care of the issue themselves.  While this may work some of the time, most of the time we get a call right after their attempt.  With our gentle products and necessary tactics for clean up, we can assure you will be satisfied with the outcome of our work.

Antimicrobial Paint Job

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

After paint was applied and basement finished

A client called in this month with a severe mold problem in his basement.  The mold spread very quickly over the course of two days time.  SERVPRO cleared all of the mold and even took care of some that gravitated to the clients upstairs hallway.  Aside from the mold itself, the client and his family believed they were starting to get sick from the mold and they thanked us immensely once the mold was removed.  Mold can spread as fast as 24 after initial mold is found.  With the mold being so infectious, SERVPRO needed to rip up the entire basement, demo-ed, and painted the entire area with anti-microbial paint.  This kind of job typically takes an average of three to four days to complete.

Mold Mess

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Living Room Mold Tear Up and Clean Out

We had a recent call into our office a few weeks ago about a mold issue throughout a home.  Our client was out of the country for six weeks and came home to pretty much their entire home in Northeast Philadelphia destroyed by water.  Since it ran for so long, there was a lot of mold that formed too.  Too much to handle on their own, our client gave us a call after immediately returning.  His entire first floor, including the living room, dining room, and kitchen were damaged.  The second floor along with the basement was also totally wiped out from the damage.  The mold was so severe down in the basement, it was actually considered one of the worst cases we've ever been called into.  We were happy our client reached out, and will be an advocate for SERVPRO of Fox Chase/Torresdale in the future.

Basement Puffback

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Puff Back aftermath in basement

Here is an example of a puff back SERVPRO was called into assist with at a residential property.  Although our clients' basement was not finished, the soot from the puff back ended up affecting her entire home--which consisted of three floors in total.  It's important to note that when you notice things such like this that occur in your home that you immediately call for assistance.  Applying to this situation, soot can be extremely dangerous to your health when it is inhaled because it is so toxic.  Although puff backs may or may not only be a one time event it is also important to note that you should reach out to a heating specialist--just so you can prevent this from happening again.

Residential Fire Call

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

2nd Floor Fire

Here is a perfect example of a fire SERVPRO was called to tend to in a residential area.  Unfortunately, a candle caught on to a lit curtain and the family's entire second floor was ruined.  SERVPRO, along with the local fire department was called in immediately to the job as best we could.  As you can clearly see, via the "After" picture here, there is still work that needs to be done.  Our client was unbelievably thankful for what we had already done.  Many items and memories were destroyed in this fire, but our client was very grateful for how easy SERVPRO made everything.  As much as they were already dealing with, they still loved how reassuring and comforting our team made the entire process for them.

Chimney Fire

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

Living Room Chimney

Here is an example of a fire we tended to recently.  Our clients had just renovated their house and the chimney had a backup which caused the fire.  SERVPRO was the first this family thought to call and we're very glad they did.  As a team, we were able to save majority of the house that was damaged--some of which included the kitchen, wood floors, and wallpaper.  Our clients were incredibly relieved for the sole fact they thought they would need to renovate majority of the house all over again. 

Much of the time our clients envision their mishap to be more than it actually is.  Never be afraid to pick up your phone and call SERVPRO if you are unsure of something.  We are always here to help and answer any questions!

Township Sewer Backup

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Sewage Backup Into Basement

Here is an example of a severe water damage job SERVPRO was called in to attend to in a nearby community.  This family's basement had water leak into their house damaging most of the basement and their belongings in it.  Responding quickly to the scene, the job in its' entirety lasted a total of 4 days.  The homeowners were more than impressed with how fast we handled the situation.  Throughout the entire process SERVPRO was there to answer any questions and concerns about the situation.  We at SERVPRO strongly believe that our clients should be as comfortable as possible at all times in their own home.  Being a voice of reason, and reliable source we assured this client in particular that we would not disappoint.

Bank of America

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Bank of America Sewage Backup Job

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

• Retail Facilities
• Education Facilities
• Property Management
• Healthcare Facilities
• Hospitality Facilities
• Food Service Facilities

In this particular instance, there was a sewage back up in the basement of a Bank of America building nearby.  SERVPRO very quickly responded and went out the same day, extracted the water, sanitized the affected surfaces with antimicrobial, cleaned and/or discarded affected contents, and set up drying equipment to prevent mold.  Our team is prompt, allowing us to respond quickly to these types of incidents allowing us to be readily available for the customer at any time.

Disaster Preparation

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Don't know how to shut off your utilities right before a disaster strikes?  Here's what you need to know:

During cases of emergency, power surges after the storm can damage electronics, and flooded appliances can also create safety hazards.

1. Shut off all the individual circuits, then turn off your main circuit.  It is also useful to label the individual circuits.
2. Shut off your water.
   • Cracked lines can also pollute your water supply to your home, so check in with local authorities before restoring your water.
3. Shut off your natural gas.
   • Locate the shutoff valve connected to the gas line, and turn the switch perpendicular to stop the gas flow.
   • If you expect a gas leak, immediately evacuate the house and DO NOT turn off your gas.  Contact your local natural gas provider, and have a professional assess the situation.  Natural gas leaks are attributed to numerous home fires.

How will YOU prepare?

Emergency Ready Profile Advantage

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
  • This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  • It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects.  But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  
  • This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  • This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.

Senior Communities & Assisted Living Services

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

You may have concerns about health and safety during emergency and non-emergency events and how it could effect the well being of your communities.  You can depend on: SERVPRO to clean and sanitize building materials, surfaces and contents; always following the restoration industry standards, using professional cleaning products and EPA-registered cleaners and disinfectants.  We are also trained and equipped to clean your HVAC and duct systems to provide better air quality and reduce the risk of circulating harmful contaminates.  If you have any concerns about the cleanliness and sanitation of your communities, please contact us today!  215-245-4855

WE ARE YOUR FULL SERVICE SOLUTION

• Water Removal
• Structural Dehumidification
• Fire, Smoke & Soot Cleaning
• Sewage Cleaning & Sanitation
• Odor Elimination & Deodorization
• Pandemic Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation & Remediation
• Content Cleaning & Restoration
• Carpet/Upholstery Cleaning
• Surface Steam Blasting
• Electronic Equipment Drying
• HVAC/Air System Duct Cleaning
• Repairs
• Emergency Building Control
• Claim Oversight & Management

SERVPRO is a Puffback Expert

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

The term puffback refers to the sudden expulsion of sootinto a dwelling area caused by malfunction in the heating system.  The soot consists of petroleum based particles formed by incomplete combustion in the furnace.  Permanent damage can occur unless the soot is removed quickly utilizing professional cleaning agents and methods.

What to do when you have a Puffback...

• Shut down heating systems immediately
• Contact the oil company that services the furnace
• Avoid contact with contaminated surfaces
• Contact remediation specialists to restore the home or office to its preloss condition

Why use SERVPRO?

• We are experienced in all areas of puffback restoration
• Immediate response to the problem
• We work with all Insurance Companies
• Proper inspection and testing procedures
• Air duct cleaning and soot sealing
• Deodorization
• Complete structure and content cleaning
• We take care of clothing, carpet, upholstery, and drapery cleaning.

What not to do when a Puffback happens...

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces.  This will make the damage worse.
• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Do not turn on ceiling fans
• Do not send soft goods to an ordinary dry cleaner
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical components

Customer Service Focus Helps SERVPRO Drive Sales

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Customer service isn’t just about being courteous to your customers–it’s a vital element of business operations that can impact your bottom line.  The good news is, it’s relatively simple to implement a customer service improvement plan that keeps your business on top.

SERVPRO Customer service is like no longer.  We are there as soon as you need us!  While SERVPRO made some training adjustments to help foster a strong customer service attitude, the active storm season was also a key factor in boosting sales for the year.

The brand is also experiencing the benefits of expanded service offerings as SERVPRO adjusted its operating model about five years ago to add commercial cleaning to what had primarily been water restoration and residential disaster cleanup.

The Importance of Carpet Cleaning

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

Christine's Restaurant (Yardley, PA)

Every business eventually gets dirty floors and needs them to be cleaned, especially in a commercial setting happening more frequently.  Are you a very busy business owner who notices the build up and gets aggravated when it's time to clean up?  Are you tired with how many times this issue arises month, or maybe even in a week?  Say no more, that is what SERVPRO is here for!  As a business owner, there are so many other topics you need to worry about.  Let us take the load and stress off of your back, so you can focus on the essentials and core part of your business.  Please do not hesitate to call us at 215-245-4855, we are only a phone call away.

Inventory Services

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

When an incident occurs, more of the time than not the damage can feel extremely overwhelming.  Nobody wants or needs that extra stress or burden piled into their lives.

Some of the basic inventory services SERVPRO provides are as follows:

• Room-by-Room Detailed Contents Listing
• Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet Format for Ease of Use

Inventory Services:

• Emergency Inventory
• Pre-loss Inventory
• Restoration and Replacement Cost Data Provided to Aid in Cost Analysis
• Schedule of Loss-Adjusting Software
  • Access to One of the Most Powerful Products Available
• Complete Inventory
  • Total Loss Items
  • Questionable Items
  • Restorable Items
• Electronic Reporting
  • Customizable Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet Reports Increase Flexibility

...and more!

Please don't hesitate to call so we can take the load of of your back, we are here to HELP, 215-800-4232!

Fire, Smoke, and Soot Damage

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year to help you regain control quickly.

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings.  SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.  SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration.  These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.

What You Can Do Until Help Arrives

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
• Coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
• Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Do not clean any electrical equipment.
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

SERVPRO History

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Photo of Corporate headquarters

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Industries,Inc.  Franchise System is a national leader of fire, water, and other specialty cleanup and restoration services.  SERVPRO's professional network of more than 1,500 franchises has responded to property damage emergencies ranging from multi-million dollar disasters such as the Pentagon, to those suffered by individual businesses and homes.  Providing coverage nationally, SERVPRO Franchise professionals have established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients nationwide.  

The need for experienced, trained and professional cleanup and restoration experts is recession resistant, and the growth potential inside of a proven system presents an opportunity for prospective Franchisees.  With a proud history, a successful present and a bright future, SERVPRO will press on toward becoming the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world.

The Pentagon

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

When water pipes located in the basement of the Pentagon burst early one morning, pouring 1.8 million gallons of water over 565,000 square feet - or roughly 17 miles of hallway - SERVPRO Franchise Professionals completed the enormous task of drying the structure in just 7 days. 

Following the horrific events of September 11, 2001 we all know and remember, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals were called in to assist with cleaning up and restoration of the Pentagon.  In spite of the emotions and difficulties involved in the restoration effort, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals dried close to 3000,000 square feet in addition providing fire, soot, smoke cleanup and restoration services. Upon completion of the drying assignment, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals were able to provide mold remediation services in other sections of the facility.  SERVPRO Franchise Professionals met the remediation services in other sections of the facility as well.  Up for the challenge, the job was completed in full in just 90 days.

What should I do until help arrives?

4/5/2018 (Permalink)

A flooded basement leaving contents drifting in the water

You never expect it when a water damage wreaks havoc on your home.  The water damage clean up can be a headache so you always want to be prepared.  Here are 5 tips to help you recover quickly when a water damages your property.  1. Find the source of the water damage.  It's easy to find a faucet left running or sewer backup.  However, if water is coming from a hidden pipe in the walls you need to shut off water to the house as quickly as possible.  2. After the panic has settled down, assess the level of damage to your home.  There are some steps you can take to remove the water from your house, but if carpeting, drywall, rugs or other structural damage has occurred, call a professional water restoration company like SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem immediately.  3. Move Quickly!  You need to start mitigating the damage before more damage piles up.  Bacteria and hazardous mold spores can begin to grow within hours of the catastrophe.  4.  Use a shop-vac to remove as much water as possible until the professionals show up.  The longer the water sits on the floor, the more damage it will create.  Move quickly to remove as much water as possible.  5. Take photos for your insurance claim.  Your insurance company will probably send out someone to investigate the damage, but if you have pictures that show everything as it happened, it could smooth out the claims process.  Of course, the best kind of water damage is the one that never happens, but if you do ever find yourself in need, the professionals at SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem are here to help you 24/7.

Thanksgiving Holiday

11/21/2017 (Permalink)

It's hard to tell from the photo, but there once stood a deep fryer in this home. Unfortunately it caused extensive fire damage.

This time of year, everyone is gearing up for the holidays.  While we will all surely be eating turkey on Thanksgiving day, we may be preparing it differently.  

In the last few years, deep frying turkeys has become a wildly popular method to cook the food.  However, according to a "Home Fire Involving Cooking Equipment" report, home fires caused by cooking are nearly 4 times as likely on Thanksgiving as any other day of the year.  Deep frying turkeys, while delicious, is also very dangerous.  So before you get into some deep frying fun, here are 3 quick safety tips for you to protect your home:

1) Stay Away from The House – Set up the turkey fryer more than 10 feet away from your home and keep children and pets away. Never leave it unattended.

2) Use a Thawed and Dry Turkey – Make sure your Thanksgiving turkey is completely thawed and dry. Extra water will cause the oil to bubble furiously and spill over. If oil spills from the fryer onto the burner, it can cause a fire.

3) Be Prepared – Have a fire extinguisher (multipurpose, dry-powder) ready at all times in the event that the oil ignites.

From all of us here at SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem, we want to wish you and your family a Happy (and safe) Thanksgiving!

Mold - Don't let it grow!

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

After a significant, prolonged water intrusion, water wicked up the drywall and mold began to colonize and spread. We were there to help remediate.

There are many misconceptions out there about mold, so we here at SERVPRO would like to help with some facts.  

Fungi and mold occur naturally in our environment.  In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified.  Some molds can actually produce useful things.  The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold.  The lifesaving drug, penicillin, is a product of mold!

That said, some forms of mold can be harmful.  Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.

Intrusion of water into your home of place of business can result in mold growth.  Water intrusions can be caused by storm damage, plumbing, equipment failures, and poor humidity control.  When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.  Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments.  If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply.  To avoid this and the possibility of adverse health affects, call SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem today!

From Carpets to Catastrophe

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

As seen in this photo, call us at any time- day or night! - and SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem will be at your property to help in your time of need!

Hope everyone had a nice holiday weekend!  Here at SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem we just want to remind you what kind of services we provide in case you or anyone you know might need our help!  

• Fire, Smoke, and Soot cleanup and restoration
• Water Removal and Dehumidification
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Crime Scene, Biohazard, and Vandalism Cleanup
• Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
• Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning
• Odor Identification and Deodorization

When you need it done right and done soon, call SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem for all your cleaning needs.  When you hire SERVPRO for cleaning, you get quality cleaning and quick response- that's the SERVPRO Way.

SERVPRO has over 40 years experience as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider.  No fire or water damage is too big!

So when you need a speedy response and the expertise to get the job done right, ensuring your property will get back to normal as quickly as possible, call us at 215-245-4855!  

Clean Homes Sell Faster

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

In the photo, you can see one of our technicians performing a carpet cleaning for a rental property that is in-between tenants.

Get it clean and get it sold!  Whether it is general cleaning, duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, or mold remediation, SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem can help get your property cleaned.  

Regarding mold specifically, it is important to know that molds are found in every environment.  Mold spores reproduce rapidly when moisture is present.  An Institute of Medicine study found that excessive dampness indoors encourages the growth of molds and other organisms, and could pose a health problem.  The EPA advised that the potential health concerns from mold are an important reason to prevent moisture problems leading to mold growth.  It is especially important to clean up existing indoor mold growth to increase property appeal and retain its value.  

It is a fact: clean, fresh-smelling homes sell faster.  SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem's professional team can help revive your property to show in top condition.  Call us today!

Holiday Weekend

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

With the holiday weekend upon us, many people will be heading to the beach for one last summer weekend!  However, if a water damage were to occur while the house is unoccupied, you could be coming home to a disaster!  

As a tip, you should consider shutting off the main valve that controls all the water for your home in order to protect against catastrophic water damage. Everyone in your home should know where the main water shutoff valve is located so they can stop the water in an emergency. And you should turn it off whenever you leave home, even overnight.  

If you forget to shut off the main water valve, and you do walk into a water damage, here are just a few tips of what to do:

• Shut off the source of water if possible
• Turn off circuit breakers for areas of the building if possible
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or extracting

We hope everyone enjoys the unofficial "end of the summer" holiday weekend!  Should you or someone you know need help with a water damage, SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem professionals will be available to help 24/7!

Cleaning Up After a Fire

8/10/2017 (Permalink)

At a home in Glenside, PA, one of our technicians is wiping away soot above a window using a chemical sponge and extension pole.

For homeowners, putting out a fire can be worse than the fire itself.  A backdraft of emotions often sweeps over the homeowner after a fire ravages a home.  Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt about the future of the property can overwhelm the homeowner long after the flames have been extinguished.  

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings.  SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem's professional staff and technicians provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents inventory and restoration.  These services help ensure your property, belongings, and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.

SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem professionals are available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year to help you regain control quickly.  Call us at 215-600-1497 today!

Residential Duct Cleanings

8/1/2017 (Permalink)

What you may not be seeing inside your ductwork!

Often times a ventilation system can be the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality.  We have found that our customers, whether residential or commercial, have a high regard for the health and safety of their families and employees.  They know that breathing dirty air can lead to many types of illnesses, or aggravates respiratory issues such as asthma or emphysema.

Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your home.  

If you're concerned with the purity of your air, give SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem a call today.  Through the use of HEPA vacuums, roto-scrapers, air whipping, duct sealant, and filter replacement, SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem is equipped to properly & professionally perform a clean sweep of your air ducts, removing years of dust and grime.  

I have experienced a Water Damage- What Now?

3/28/2017 (Permalink)

Standing water in a basement after water damage

You never expect it when a water damage wreaks havoc on your home.  The water damage clean up can be a headache so you always want to be prepared.  Here are 5 tips to help you recover quickly when a water damages your property.  1. Find the source of the water damage.  It's easy to find a faucet left running or sewer backup.  However, if water is coming from a hidden pipe in the walls you need to shut off water to the house as quickly as possible.  2. After the panic has settled down, assess the level of damage to your home.  There are some steps you can take to remove the water from your house, but if carpeting, drywall, rugs or other structural damage has occurred, call a professional water restoration company like SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem immediately.  3. Move Quickly!  You need to start mitigating the damage before more damage piles up.  Bacteria and hazardous mold spores can begin to grow within hours of the catastrophe.  4.  Use a shop-vac to remove as much water as possible until the professionals show up.  The longer the water sits on the floor, the more damage it will create.  Move quickly to remove as much water as possible.  5. Take photos for your insurance claim.  Your insurance company will probably send out someone to investigate the damage, but if you have pictures that show everything as it happened, it could smooth out the claims process.  Of course, the best kind of water damage is the one that never happens, but if you do ever find yourself in need, the professionals at SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem are here to help you 24/7.