3 Steps for Protecting Your Home After a Water Event

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

If a flood was caused by one or more pipes in your home, you should turn off your home's water.

Three Steps to Protect Your Home After a Flood

When flooding affects your Mahtomedi, MN, home, the immediate aftermath is often difficult to handle. However, since water damage can occur quickly to your home's building materials, furniture and electronics, knowing how to prevent or reduce it can lower the risk of loss of personal or costly items.

1. Turn Off the Water Source
If the flood source is one or more broken pipes in your home, you can slow the damage by turning off your home's water. Locating the valve ahead of time and knowing how to operate it can help you act even faster, but if you are unsure of its location, check with your local water company and ask for assistance in shutting off the water supply.

2. Keep Humidity Low
Water damage can cause several secondary problems, such as mold growth, because of the increased humidity standing water tends to cause. You can slow this process by opening windows in the affected area and operating ceiling and floor fans to improve air circulation. Turning off your HVAC unit can also keep humidity levels down and prevent mold spores from traveling into other areas of the home and taking root there.

3. Remove Items To Prevent Water Damage
If the water source is sanitary, such as from a sink or broken water line, you can likely enter it to remove important items to dry them out. Remain cautious about moving through the water and if the flood's source came from an overflowing toilet or broken sewer connection, wait for a water cleanup and flood mitigation service to assist you. Water that comes from unsanitary sources may carry harmful bacteria or corrosive chemicals that could harm your skin.
Flooding can have a serious effect on your Mahtomedi, MN, home, and your belongings. Acting quickly in the wake of a flood to reduce the damage can keep repair costs low and allow for a quicker turnaround time.

Mold Inspection Before Buying a Building

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

A mold inspection can be conducted to determine if the building has a mold problem.

Mold Inspection

Before purchasing a building, buyers typically have it inspected. This alerts the buyer of any structural damage or other problems that can impact the decision to buy the property or the price they are willing to pay. During this process, a mold inspection can be conducted to determine if the building has a mold problem.

Where to Look

Mold can be found in many different locations within a building:

• Air ducts or HVAC systems
  
• Basements or other areas that have experienced flooding
  
• Bathrooms
  
• Kitchens
  
• Ceiling tiles
  
• Near leaking pipes
  
  

While the buyer may be able to spot visible mold on their own, a professional building inspector will be able to identify more subtle signs and check the area more thoroughly.

High-Risk Buildings

Some buildings have a higher risk of mold presence than others. If the building you are considering purchasing has a high risk of mold, you should definitely have a mold inspection performed before buying it.

Mold grows in warm, moist environments. Buildings that have experienced flooding, leaking pipes or sewage backup should be considered high risk. Humidity should also be considered. Very humid climates allow moisture to accumulate in buildings, leading to mold growth. When deciding if you want the building inspector to check for mold, keep these high-risk factors in mind.

Hazards

A building with a mold problem poses significant risks that must be addressed immediately. Mold can damage building materials, such as wood, and threaten the structural integrity of the building. If this is the case, a mold remediation service in Lakeland, MN, should remove the mold and repair any damage immediately. They should also treat the area with a disinfectant to prevent the spread of harmful toxins.
Conducting a mold inspection before purchasing a building can save you a lot of money in repairs later on. Discovering a mold problem early helps ensure the safety of the building and its inhabitants.

Choose the Leader in Fast Emergency Response

7/30/2022 (Permalink)

Board up windows in a home in Mahtomedi, MN.

Pick the Best for Quick Emergency Response

Fires, storms and flooding can all cause damage to your property and require professional repairs. Delays in the restoration work may create further damage to your Mahtomedi, MN, home, or business. It's therefore critical to initiate swift emergency response to keep you and your property safe. SERVPRO's local franchise network guarantees a response Faster to Any Size Disaster. Give them a call and expect their team to quickly arrive on-site to survey the damage and form a restoration plan.

Get Help Faster to Any Size Disaster
After the initial disaster hits, unresolved fire and water damage can create electric shock hazards and reduce the structural integrity of your property. Smoke and humidity may cause mold formation and odors within walls, ceilings, and belongings. The swift response of SERVPRO's local franchise network keeps you safe, prevents secondary damage and cuts repair costs. Their technicians work to prevent further damage to your property by:

• Putting up tarps and boards
  
• Removing water and odors
  
• Drying water-logged surfaces
  
• Halting the spread of mold
  
• Resolving potential hazards
  
  

Simplify Your Insurance Claim
It can be hard deciding who to trust with fixing your property. Rest assured that SERVPRO always lives up to its reputation as one of the most trusted disaster remediation companies in the nation. As a result, they are a preferred remediation vendor for many insurance companies.
Claim services are one of the prime benefits available from SERVPRO. You can save time and money by letting them help you create a record of your lost or damaged goods. Both you and the insurance company can easily access their reports in either hard copy or electronic form.
You can count on SERVPRO to provide the best emergency remediation services for your Mahtomedi, MN, home, or business. They promise to be Faster to Any Size Disaster, made possible by locally-owned franchises always on call to serve you.

Understanding Business Interruption Insurance

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

If a disaster strikes, having business interruption insurance provides needed financial relief to help stay afloat.

Business Interruption Insurance

If a fire happens at your Lake Elmo, MN, business, it means unexpected downtown and other financial losses. While waiting for a professional fire restoration company to get the property back up and running, there are still added expenses. Business interruption insurance is one way to help ensure recovery from the loss.

What Is Covered?

Knowing that the unexpected happens, a successful business needs to plan for those situations. While there are many ways to plan for that, it is also necessary to consider insurance. This type of additional coverage provides added peace of mind. While every policy is different, most will cover:

• Sales or revenue lost if operating normally
  
• Expenses associated with temporary relocation
  
• Rent or lease payments
  
• Utility services
  
• Taxes and loan payments
  
• Employee payroll
  
• Additional related expenses incurred
  
  

Business owners should thoroughly understand what is and isn’t covered, as well as know the coverage limits. This type of coverage is for financial losses, not property, which should be covered under general liability. In most cases, it won’t provide coverage for contingent or partial interruptions or ones not related to damaged property.

Business Fire Restoration Period

In most cases, it takes 48 to 72 hours for coverage to begin after a claim is accepted. It’s also important to note that regardless of the policy, it will include a restoration period. This is a set time frame that funds will be received after the claim is accepted. In many cases, the benefits will last up to one year. Of course, providers will expect that fire cleaning and other restoration services are being handled as quickly as possible.
While a successful business may be focused on growth and day-to-day operations, it also has to consider how it may be affected by unexpected events. If a disaster strikes, having business interruption insurance provides needed financial relief to help stay afloat.

Why To Invest In a Restoration Franchise

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Stillwater, Oakdale, and Mahtomedi is Here to Help!

Advantages Of Opening a SERVPRO Franchise

It is an unfortunate fact that disasters continue to occur regardless of market conditions. As a result, the restoration industry keeps rolling even as other sectors of the economy slow down. Homeowners need habitable residences and commercial property owners need to maintain properties that can attract and retain tenants. Learn more about the advantages of opening a SERVPRO franchise near Bay Port, MN.

There Is Consistent Demand for Services

Rates of fire, water and storm disasters remain relatively consistent year-over-year. Here are several statistics to give a sense of the size of this market:

• The U.S. Fire Administration reports over 1 million fires every year
  
• The National Flood Insurance Program has over 5 million policies in force
  
• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric
• The administration reports an average of 1,000 tornadoes per year
  
  

These metrics indicate steady demand for damage restoration from fires, flooding and storm damage across the United States. Preferred Vendors in a major restoration company are most likely to be called on during disaster recovery.

Restoration Firms Are Local Businesses

Opening a locally owned SERVPRO franchise is a good way to engage in the local economy with the backing of a large national company. Owners, operators and employees help out with disaster response and recovery close to home and can rely on an extensive network for support.

Franchises Can Join a Large Network

Over 1,700 franchise locations in North America are affiliated with SERVPRO. Membership in this corporate restoration network can be helpful when it comes to responding to large losses or making it easier for owners and employees to get certified through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification programs.
Opening a restoration company is a smart decision, but any business without a corporate network is less protected than a franchise in a large family. SERVPRO franchise owners have access to the resources they need to compete and succeed.

The Necessity of a Flood Cut

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

A flood cut can help a remediation team salvage and protect a property.

The Importance of a Flood Cut

Storms can cause flooding in residential areas, resulting in significant devastation. Restoring a house to its beauty can take time, and it will often require the further demolition of specific elements according to water remediation services in Bay Port, MN. The demolition will typically require a flood cut, which is a cut made into a wall about 12 inches above the flood line. The flood cut serves at least four purposes.

1. Eliminate Water Damage
Primarily, the flood cut is the standard approach to tear out. A remediation service will cut to a line where the surface and substructures are most likely dry and remove anything below that line, down to the studs. Removing the materials helps reduce the risks of further water damage.

2. Reduce Risks of Mold
Flooding and mold growth can go hand in hand. Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours of a flood. Using a flood cut, the remediation service can see if mold has started and potentially eliminate it before it spreads to dryer areas.

3. Restrict Contamination
The main reason to perform a flood cut is to find an area beneath the wall's surface that is dry and free of contaminates. Exposing the dry areas means restricting the movement or development of water-damaged areas. The interior of a wall cavity can become humid, especially after a flood. If the area remains sealed, water and other contaminants will continue to climb the structure.

4. Provide Assessment Point
The flood cut also acts as an assessment point. By removing the wall and some of the internal materials, a remediation service can see how much damage a flood caused. The opening allows the team to assess any structural damage.
Flooding can lead to devastating losses. A flood cut can help a remediation team salvage and protect a property.

3 Tips to Manage Roof Damage Between the Storm and Repairs

6/12/2022 (Permalink)

Use a tarp on your roof to cover the damage.

Three Tips For Managing Roof Damage

After a big storm in Stillwater, MN, you need to check your roof. You know that it's important to document all storm damage and get the information to your insurance company ASAP to expedite your claim. It's also important to take steps to mitigate or minimize further damage to your roof. Here are three tips for managing roof damage between when the storm happened and when repairs can be done.

1. Use Boards and Tarp to Cover Roof Damage
Once a roof is damaged, a lot more damage can occur if moisture gets involved. Loose shingles, torn siding, and broken skylights can all allow water to leak into the structure of your home. Moisture can cause mold to grow and can deteriorate building materials. Use plastic tarps or sheets of plywood to cover areas of your roof that were damaged in a storm to prevent additional damage.

2. Inspect Quick Fixes Regularly
After you've reported the damage to your insurance company and communicated your mitigation efforts, keep an eye on things. If winds are still strong, tarps or plywood could be blown away from the area they're meant to protect. Take additional measures to secure those quick fixes if you need to. Protect your property by parking vehicles in garages, boarding up glass roofs in sunrooms, and cutting back dead or damaged tree branches.

3. Contact Emergency Restoration Services
If there is significant wind damage to your roof, contact an emergency restoration company. These professionals can help you take steps to protect your roof from additional damage and can walk you through the entire restoration process.
With roof damage, it's essential to act quickly. Since moisture can turn a missing shingle into a total roof replacement, taking the proper steps to mitigate storm damage to your roof can save you time and money in the long run.

If a Fire Didn't Cause Much Damage, Should You Fix It Yourself?

6/4/2022 (Permalink)

A fire loss should be taken seriously to avoid bigger problems.

Should You Repair a Fire If It Didn't Cause Much Damage?

A fire on your commercial property, even if there wasn't much fire loss, can put your business at a bit of a standstill. If the fire was small and caused minimal damage, you may be tempted to make the repairs yourself or ignore it for a while for the sake of your company. There are some reasons you should consider not doing this.

You Should Not DIY

Repairing fire and smoke damage can become dangerous without the proper PPE or protocols. You could even end up doing more harm than good. If you don't know exactly what you are doing, it may not get done properly and damage will persist. Although it may seem like a big deal, you should trust a professional fire remediation service.

water damage from firefighting efforts can eventually turn to mold
smoke damage can degrade electronics
specific techniques are required to remove soot from upholstery and documents
air quality is something that needs to be tested with specialized tools

You Are Probably Covered

Most insurance policies that protect against fire also include coverage for partial fire loss. Before you move anything, be sure to document everything you can with pictures and written lists. Partial losses are sometimes low on the priority list of insurance adjusters, so be sure to follow up frequently if you do not hear from them right away.

You Might Have More Damage Than You Think

Not all damage is immediately visible. Areas like the walls, siding, roof, windows, plumbing, wiring and heating system need a thorough inspection from an expert to truly assess any deterioration. Once damage is found, a professional fire restoration company can help you claim these damages on your insurance, as well.
Even in small doses, fire loss should be taken seriously to avoid bigger problems down the road. Attempting to patch it yourself could be a bad idea for both you and your commercial property. Don't be afraid to reach out to the right people when the time comes.

How To Maintain Your Sump Pump

5/28/2022 (Permalink)

If you have a basement or live in a flood area, a sump pump is a good investment.

How To Care For Your Pump

Keeping your home in Oakdale, MN, from flooding can be a challenge, especially during storm season. Adding a sump pump to your basement is a smart idea. To ensure that it does its job, though, you have to maintain it properly. Here are some tips on how to take care of your pump.

Keep Pump Free of Clogs
An important part of pump maintenance is making sure that nothing obstructs the flow of water through it. There are several places you regularly need to check for clogs:

• Intake screen
  
• Discharge pipe
  
• Sump basin
  
• Float component
  
  

Check for debris periodically, especially if the pump was used recently or if you know a storm is on its way. A clear passage makes it work more efficiently.

Check Sump Pump Power Supply and Backup

No matter how good a shape your pump is in, it won't work if it doesn't have sufficient power. Make sure the cord is intact and that it is plugged into a GFCI outlet. Many pumps have backup batteries, which is helpful if your home loses power during a heavy storm. A battery should last at least two years, but check the manufacturer's instructions to make sure you don't need to change it at different intervals.

Test Pump Frequently
Knowing your pump is working properly gives you peace of mind. To test it, simply pour water into the basin. At a certain level, the rising water should trigger the pump, and that's how you know it's functioning the way it's supposed to. According to flood damage restoration experts, you should clean and test your pump every three or four months. If you recently experienced a flood in your home, though, it certainly doesn't hurt to test it more frequently.
A sump pump is a wise investment for homeowners, particularly if you have a basement or live in a flood plain. A well-maintained pump can prevent a lot of damage.

Do You Need Business Interruption Insurance?

5/14/2022 (Permalink)

Business interruption insurance protects a temporarily closed business.

As a business owner, you know that insurance can save you in extreme circumstances. Business interruption insurance is no different. It encompasses the costs associated with keeping your business afloat when trying to rebuild after an unexpected event. Find out if you need this type of insurance in Oakdale, MN.

What Is Business Interruption Insurance?

Business interruption insurance protects a temporarily closed business. Most commercial property owners know that property insurance is a necessity, but have you considered the potential costs of a temporary shutdown? Also known as business income insurance, this type of coverage doesn't deal with the physical rebuild of your business. For this, you need a trustworthy damage remediation team.
However, it does help with inevitable financial issues to keep you afloat. Being forced to close due to a disaster event can impact the costs associated with running a company. Some of the aspects that business income insurance can help with include:

• Employee pay
  
• Property taxes
  
• Loans
  
• Property rental fees
  
• Temporary relocation fees
  
• Training on new equipment
  
• Lost income
  
  

If your business comes to a halt, you won't be able to bring in as much income, if any. Based on your net income in previous months, this coverage can reimburse you, among other things.

What Should You Consider When Purchasing?

As with all insurance, there are aspects to consider before purchasing. Before signing up, you should assess:

• Budget constraints
  
• Natural disaster probability
  
• Age and reliability of structures
  
• Ability to operate without a physical location
  
  

Of course, with digital innovations, some businesses can survive a bit better by moving things online. You need to consider how well your business can handle a disaster, and adjust accordingly.

How Much Does It Cost?

The price of business income insurance will vary depending on a variety of factors. Some of these are:

• Size of business
  
• Industry-related risks
  
• Coverage limit selected
  
  

You can determine how much coverage you would need in the event of needing to close for a while. Have this at the ready when selecting business interruption insurance. However, this insurance can be a saving grace when times get tough.

How SERVPRO Can Help With Emergency Response

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Water cleanup in Lakeland, MN.

How SERVPRO Can Assist in an Emergency

When you are in an emergency, time matters. Fortunately, you can make this process easier by going through a damage remediation company in Lakeland, MN. 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.

A 3-Point Pipe Break Checklist

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

As soon a pipe bursts the first thing to do is to shut off the water.

Checklist for Pipe Breaks

Bursting pipes call for a quick response. Any delay in shutting off the flow of water or repairing causes of damage can lead to extensive primary water damage and secondary damage such as mold. This three-point checklist can guide commercial property owners or managers through the measures necessary to respond to a broken pipe at a building located in Oakdale, MN.

1. Shut Off the Water

The main water shutoff valve should be the first stop a commercial building owner or manager makes as soon as a pipe bursts. If a building is serviced by municipal water, this valve is typically located at the point where water piping enters a structure, near a water meter. This measure can reduce the amount of water that leaks into a structure and set the stage for a plumber to fix broken pipe.

2. Contain Water Damage

Any measures that commercial building owners, managers or occupants take to slow or stop the flow of water introduced by bursting pipes from spreading can limit the damage. Consider collecting water in containers with wheels, such as rolling mop buckets or trash cans, for easier disposal or extraction.

3. Arrange for Mitigation

Taking measures to keep water damage from getting worse can reduce the extent and severity of the damage. While a building owner or manager can take a few measures, restoration professionals have the equipment and expertise to safely extract any quantity of water from a structure and facilitate drying.

Following the steps in this checklist can help a property owner or manager deal with bursting pipes at a building located in Oakdale, MN. In most cases, it is worthwhile to have professionals mitigate, clean and restore water damage. Building materials that stay damp for longer than 48 hours run a high risk of developing secondary mold damage, which is even more costly to remediate.

The Best Mold Control Strategies for Apartments

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth in an apartment may spread to other units or common areas in a building.

The Most Effective Mold Control Techniques for Apartments

Mold growth in an apartment building can affect a single unit, several apartments or a larger area. Discover the best strategies to control the spread of fungus leading up to mold cleanup at a multifamily dwelling in Lakeland, MN.

Keep an Infestation From Spreading

Mold growth in an apartment may spread to other units or common areas in a building. Apartments are often connected to some, if not all, of the following areas:

• Hallways
  
• Elevators
  
• Stairways
  
• Lobbies
  
• Ventilation
  
  

Mold spores can be carried on the clothing and shoes of residents or property maintenance staff. The design of ductwork may also determine how readily mold growing in a single unit or inside air ducts can spread throughout a structure.

Resolve the Underlying Problems

If mold is growing due to conditions within a unit, a property manager or owner should take measures to resolve the problem. A leaky sink, bathroom fixtures or other factors may require containment and mold cleanup in an apartment and surrounding units.
A major mold infestation may result from severe water damage on the structural level. A broken or leaking supply line or damage to the roof of a structure may lead to hidden mold growth behind walls that has the potential to affect multiple apartments.

Promote Mold Mitigation Measures

Whether mold contamination affects a single unit, multiple apartments or a significant portion of a multifamily dwelling, it is important to mitigate conditions. Property owners and managers should respond quickly to reports of water damage and provide complete cleanup and restoration services. If mold is reported, inspection and remediation should take place as soon as possible.
Taking measures to contain the spread of spores, eliminate water sources and maintain low humidity levels can restrain mold growth prior to remediation. These methods may have the potential to limit the scope of mold cleanup at a building in Lakeland, MN.

High Risk Flood Problems: What To Do

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

If you live in a Flood Hazard Area, FEMA NFIP coverage may be available to you.

Is Your Home at High Risk for Flooding?

If you recently learned that you live in a Flood Hazard Area or Special Flood Hazard Area, you may be unclear on what your protection plan should be or how to get FEMA NFIP coverage. Here are four steps you should take to get started.

1. Contact your insurance agent. You may want or need to purchase flood insurance to protect against potential flooding damage to your home, so the first thing that you should do after finding out you live in a high-risk flood zone is contact your insurance company to see what flood coverage you are eligible for.

2. If you need more help, visit FloodSmart.gov. This website provides homeowners like you with valuable resources regarding flood insurance and can even help you find an agent if your current insurance company cannot help you get coverage.

3. Learn about FEMA’S National Flood Insurance Program. If you live in a Flood Hazard Area, FEMA NFIP coverage may be available to you. Check with your local floodplain administrator to see if your community participates in this voluntary federal program. If it doesn’t, you do not need to meet federal coverage requirements.

4. Familiarize yourself with Afton, MN, cleanup services. No matter how well you prepare for a potential flood, water damage is still a possibility that you need to be ready for. A reliable residential storm damage company can help you figure out a cleanup plan and begin to restore your property to the best of its ability.

Nobody wants to prepare for the worst, but living a high-risk flood area often forces you to do so. Learning about FEMA NFIP and other insurance options, as well as contacting local professionals that can help you with insurance and cleanup needs, will make it easier for you to keep your property secure in the long run.

How To Begin Drying Out Your Building After a Flood

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Office drying in Bay Port, MN.

How To Dry Out Your Commercial Building

If your commercial building in Bay Port, MN, experiences a plumbing issue such as a pipe burst or flood, it's important to act quickly to mitigate damage. As you wait for help to arrive, there are a few things you can do to begin the clean-up process, such as beginning to dry out your building. Here are some damage tips for how to best dry out your commercial building and begin the restoration process.

Air Circulation

While you wait for help to arrive, you can begin to dry out your commercial building yourself by beginning to circulate the air and ensuring there is proper circulation in all rooms. Air circulation can be done in many ways. A few ideas are:

• Opening all doors and windows to let outside air in
  
• Using oscillating fans around your building to get air moving
  
• Using high-speed air movers
  
  

Air circulation can be used to dry out your commercial building. This works by speeding up moisture evaporation, but isn't effective for spot-drying any excessively wet areas. However, air circulation will begin to dry ceilings, walls and furniture.

Dehumidifying

Another one of the essential damage tips you can use as you wait for a damage restoration company to come is to dehumidify the area. A dehumidifier can be used to reduce humidity and moisture, while will help dry out the area. Dehumidifiers work best for places where you cannot get proper air circulation from outside, such as basements or other enclosed rooms. Be sure to follow all instructions for your dehumidifier, such as shutting all windows and doors and changing the water periodically for dehumidifiers that do not self-drain.

Using a Wet-Dry Vacuum

There are also cleaning tips for spot-drying excessively wet areas. The best way to do this is to use a wet-dry vacuum or shop vac. These work best on small areas such as carpets. You can rent a shop vac from an equipment rental company. If you call in a professional restoration company may bring their own.
You can use these water damage tips to help kickstart the restoration process for your commercial building.

What Is Business Interruption Insurance and Do You Need It?

3/19/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Mahtomedi, MN.

As a business owner, you are forced to weigh the pros and cons of every possible expense before you make an investment. One expense you may question is interruption insurance. Do you need it, or will it end up costing you more than you will save?

The Basics of Business Interruption Coverage

You already have commercial property coverage, so why would you need interruption coverage? Good question. Commercial property coverage insures against damage to your building and its contents due to a covered loss, such as a fire. Depending on your policy, this type of coverage may cover increased expenses that result from fire damage as well as the loss of income. However, what happens if your business is forced to close for an extended period of time while fire restoration is underway, or if your business suffers additional losses after you reopen? That's where interruption insurance comes in. This type of coverage covers the following:

• Loss caused by the slowdown or suspension of your business operations
  
• Losses accrued during the restoration period
  
• Losses sustained after resuming operations and that are a result of the fire damage
  
  

Business interruption coverage also covers payroll costs during the restoration period. This ensures you can retain your employees while your business is closed. It also covers the cost of taxes, business loan repayments and relocation expenses.

What Interruption Coverage Does Not Cover

Though interruption coverage can be extremely helpful in the event of a loss, it does not cover everything. For instance, it does not cover the cost of utilities that continue to run despite the fact that your business is closed. To ensure you don't get charged with electricity, water, gas or any other utilities while your doors are closed, call your utility companies to have them shut them off.
This type of coverage also does not cover direct property damage. That is what commercial property coverage is for. If the damage is the result of an earthquake or flood, your earthquake or flood policy should cover the cost of damages.
To learn more about what interruption insurance does and does not cover, contact your Mahtomedi, MN, fire restoration team. In addition to providing you with more information, it can help you find appropriate coverage.

What is a Nor'easter?

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Nor'easter in Lake Elmo, MN.

If you live in Lake Elmo, MN, chances are that you have heard of a nor’easter even if you have never experienced one. If you are familiar with these storms but haven’t lived through one, you may be even more nervous about what to expect from such an event. Here are some details to help you better understand nor’easters.

Fast Nor’easter Facts

At their most basic level, nor’easters are low pressure events that are strong in a particular geographical area when they occur. There are some other common facts about these intense storms that you should know right away:

• Nor’easters are usually associated with strong winter snow and winds
  
• Violent sea activity, floods on the coast and rain are all possible
  
• The storms tend to be strongest from September to April but can occur year-round
  
• There are two types of nor’easters, one that travels eastward from the Midwest and another that begins on the Gulf or East Coast and travels in a northeastern pattern
  
• They tend to develop between Georgia and New Jersey
  
  

A nor’easter will usually exist either 100 miles west or 100 miles east of the East Coast, so this is an event that really only occurs as a result of near proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. These storms usually begin when warm coastal air mixes with cold land air.

Flooding Caused by Nor’easters

If you are a homeowner in the Lake Elmo, MN, area, you may be worried about nor’easters hitting and causing water damage. Since severe winds, heavy rains and massive snowfalls can lead to all kinds of damage and floods, you should be cautious if such a storm is approaching. Make sure that you stay off dangerous roads, stock necessities and wait for the okay from authorities before venturing out. If you are worried about flood damage, contact your local residential water damage restoration company after the nor’easter has settled for help in restoring your property.

7 Important Items To Have in Your Building’s First Aid Kit

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

What to include in your first aid kit?

First Aid Kit Supplies

From minor medical situations to serious emergencies, a first aid kit can be an important safety feature in your building in Stillwater, MN. By knowing what to include in a kit, you can be better prepared to handle scary situations.

1. Bandages

A vital item you should have in an emergency kit can be bandages. Hemostatic gauze and rolled gauze tape can be used to help stop bleeding on bigger cuts, while smaller bandages can be used for minor scrapes. Liquid bandage can also be a useful way to seal wounds.

2. Ointments

A good antibacterial ointment, such as bacitracin, can help prevent wounds from getting infected. Injury-specific ointments, such as blister treatment or insect sting treatments can also be good additions to your kit.

3. Medications

While first-aid medications may not be permanent solutions to medical problems, they can help get the situation under control until proper help can be reached. Basic medications such as ibuprofen and anti-acid tablets can help alleviate pain. Injectable epinephrine can be a lifesaving treatment for an allergic reaction.

4. Splints

Splints can be a way to immobilize injured areas of a person’s body until professional medical attention is available. Basic splints, including finger splints, can come in handy in emergency situations.

5. Tools

Medications and bandages may not be worth much if you can’t use them. Proper tools such as scissors and tweezers can be some of the most important elements of your first aid kit.

6. Personal Care

Personal care items may not be the first thing you think of when creating an emergency kit, but they can come in handy. These items can include:

• Eyedrops
  
• Lotion
  
• Sunscreen
  
• Chapstick
  
  

7. Emergency Supplies

Since first aid kits may be used during power outages, natural disasters and other serious situations, it can be helpful to include emergency supplies such as flashlights and duct tape.

By including these items in a first aid kit you should be prepared to handle almost any minor medical situation. After first aid has been administered, get injured or sick employees to the proper, professional care as soon as possible.

4 Surprising Water Damage Tips

2/26/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration services in Oakdale, MN.

Water Cleanup Tips

Water damage in Oakdale, MN, can occur at any time, and it often happens with little to no warning. Whether the cause stems from broken pipes, backed-up toilets or hidden leaks, damage from unwanted water in your home can be devastating. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to clean up the mess and restore your home after a water catastrophe. Here are four surprising water cleanup tips you should try the next time you experience unwanted water in your home.

1. Start Cleaning Immediately

It usually takes a little while for permanent damage from water to set in. That’s why it’s so important to immediately begin cleanup efforts once you notice a leak or spill. Allowing water to sit for long periods of time can also lead to mold growth and may require the help of professionals to remove. Mops, towels and fans can all be used to clean up excess water and dry the area while you wait for professional help to arrive.

2. Move Valuables

If a leak occurs near valuable items such as furniture or expensive rugs, move them immediately. Even if you have to take them outdoors temporarily, it’s better to do that than to allow the water to soak into your valuables and ruin them.

3. Place Wood Blocks Under Furniture Legs

If you don’t have the time or the resources to move heavy furniture by yourself, prop them up off the floor with wooden blocks if possible. That way, shallow water won’t be able to reach them and cause permanent water damage.

4. Wear Protective Gear

You don’t know what kinds of bacteria might be lurking in water from backed-up or broken pipes. To protect yourself, wear safety gear such as thick gloves, masks and special rubber footwear.

While it’s always best to let professionals take care of water damage, you don’t have to sit idly by while you wait for them to arrive. Instead, try minimizing damage by implementing one or more of the above water cleanup tips.

Prepare for the Unexpected With a Fire Escape Plan

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Develop a fire escape plan for everyone in your home.

Make a Fire Escape Plan to Prepare for the Unexpected

In the event of a house fire, the top priority should always be getting everyone in the house out safely. Although you’ll surely want to save valuable and nostalgic items, it is important to evacuate the home and leave it up to a fire restoration company to preserve what they can. The best way to ensure the safety of all household members in your home in Lakeland, MN, is to prepare with a thorough fire escape plan in place.

Make Sure Your House is Fire Ready

The first step in putting your emergency escape plan into action is to make sure your house is prepared to warn everyone and provide a way out. Here are the main aspects you should check for:

• Make sure you have all the required fire alarms installed with plenty of battery life.
  
• Ensure any window bars include quick-release mechanisms.
  
• Keep clutter away from exits, windows, and stairs
  
• Consider purchasing fire extinguishers
  
  

Develop and Practice a Fire Escape Plan

Your next step is to develop a fire escape plan for everyone in your home. Identify a meeting place outside and map out the best method of exit for each individual. It is smart to also come up with a backup plan in case the first exit is blocked. Assign someone to each infant, pet, disabled person, or elderly person.

Explain to everyone how to safely act in the case of a fire including:

• How to check doors
  
• How to crawl under smoke
  
• How and when to stop, drop, and roll
  
• Why they should never go back inside
  
  

Make sure everyone knows what emergency number to call, especially the fire department’s number. After discussing the plan, have everyone test out the plan and make changes as needed.
Preparation is key when it comes to safely escaping a fire. Making a fire escape plan that everyone in the family knows is the best way to help everyone make it out of a house fire-safe and sound!

2 Reasons to Get Board Up Services After a Commercial Fire

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

There are various reasons to board up your business.

Reasons To Board Up Your Business

A fire can be absolutely devastating to a business. The best thing you as a commercial property owner can do is stop the fire damage from escalating out of control. This requires you to hire professionals to board up the windows. There are various reasons to board up your business until you can repair the damage and get back on your feet.

1. Keep Out Looters and Vandals

Looting is far too common following disasters. These criminals are more likely to target buildings that are easy to get into. Therefore, if your building’s windows were busted, then looters could enter your building to take whatever property had to be left behind. Additionally, there may simply be people who want to graffiti your building. This only leads to you spending more money in addition to what you need to spend on the initial fire cleanup. Even placing a board in the open windows and doorways is enough to deter many would-be criminals from entering.

2. Retain Insurance

You need to contact your commercial insurance provider immediately following fire damage to begin the claims process. The amount of money you end up receiving will depend on a number of factors. For instance, your insurance company will expect you to take action to prevent additional damage from taking place. You may have coverage against a fire, but if a looter breaks in because you did not board up the property, then your insurance may not cover any damage that looter commits. You never want to give your insurance provider any reason to deny your claim.

Ultimately, board up services can save you money in the long run. The professionals you hire for fire damage remediation should be well-versed in installing boards on windows and doorways. Ask about this service so that you do not have to worry as much about people breaking in.

Keep Your Vacation Flood Free

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Turn off your water entirely.

Here Is How To Keep Your Home Dry

So, you’re ready for your next vacation. You have the trip booked and your itinerary ready, but there’s still one thing you need to do: Make sure that a broken pipe doesn’t ruin your vacation. If your home floods while you’re gone, the damage can be extensive. Here is how to keep your home dry.

1. Repair Pipes

Are your pipes in working order? Even if you think that maintenance of your pipes is up-to-date, it’s always smart to make sure. Don’t slack on pipe repair. While you’re on vacation, you need to have peace of mind that your pipes aren’t at risk of bursting while you’re away from your Afton, MN, home. Investing in water pipe repair in advance can save you the headache.

2. Turn the Water Off

If you’re worried about flooding from a broken pipe while you’re away, you can also take an easy step that most vacationers should: Turn off your water entirely. This will save you from having to return home to a flooded residence.

3. Check Supply Lines

Your next order of business should be to check the supply lines. Water pipe repair may fix a lot of your problems, but if the supply lines are ruptured or malfunctioning, then you may have a flood on your hands. Make sure that the lines are properly installed and not leaking.

4. Test Sump Pump

Your sump pump helps keep water out of your basement. Often, this is ground water that could leave you with a flooded downstairs. Before you leave on your trip, make sure that the sump pump is still in working order. You can do this by filling it up and making sure that it ejects properly.

No one wants to deal with water damage. If your home is flooded while you are away, you won’t be able to get a restoration specialist in quickly. This is why it’s important to prevent flooding by taking water pipe repair seriously, shutting off the water, checking your supply lines, and testing your sump pump.

Everything You Want To Know About the Mold in Your Home

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can grow anywhere.

Understanding How Mold Spreads

Black mold has developed a nefarious reputation in recent years. If you have watched news reports or talked to your neighbors, you probably understand how bad this type of mold can be. Still, before you attempt mold cleanup in your Lakeland, MN, house, you should know a few things about mold.

Mold Growth Can Be Essentially Anywhere

Mold spreads through microscopic spores that easily float on wind currents in your house. As such, if you have mold growth in one part of your home, you probably have it in other spaces too. When inspecting your home for mold, be sure you initially look at moist areas. Specifically, view the following spaces to see if you find mold growth:

• Attic
  
• Basement
  
• Crawlspace
  
• Laundry facilities
  
• Bathrooms
  
• Garage
  
• Kitchen
  
  

Mold Eats the Organic Things Inside Your home

To thrive, black mold needs a food source. While you can keep the food you eat away from mold, you should realize that it loves to consume other organic things inside your home. Specifically, mold may feed on drywall, carpet, sub-flooring and insulation. Only with a comprehensive examination of your home can you determine if you have mold growth somewhere in your house.

Cleanup Requires Expertise and Equipment

Removing mold from your home is often trickier than it sounds. Because mold spores are often toxic, mold cleanup usually requires the right personal protective equipment. It also usually demands some expertise. Rather than leaving the condition of your house to chance, you may want to work with a mold remediation service. Expert technicians understand where to find mold and how to remove it from your family spaces.

You work hard to have a nice home. Unfortunately, black mold can wreak havoc on the comfort, appearance and value of your house. By understanding how mold spreads, you increase your chances of effectively removing it from your dwelling.

Devices Used to Combat Smoke Damages and Odors

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

Thermal fogger

Smoke Damage and Odor Elimination Devices

After your Bay Port, MN, business has been affected by a fire, you'll learn that not all damages are structural. Some of the longest-lasting damages may include smoke damage. Fortunately, there are several devices professionals could use while smoke cleaning to reduce or eliminate unpleasant odors from your property and furnishings.

Services Provided by Fire Remediation Professionals

Content restoration professionals specialize in dealing with the many types of damage caused by fires and as a result of fire-saving efforts. Some of the methods they use to clean furnishings, equipment, and inventory include:

• Dry and wet cleaning
  
• Foam cleaning
  
• Abrasive cleaning
  
• Immersion cleaning
  
  

Once the cleanup is complete, these professionals will turn their attention to stains and odors left by smoke.

Air Filtration Devices

These air purification devices remove contaminants directly from the air. They are generally made of some type of fibrous material that attracts and traps particulates, such as soot, mold, and bacteria. They are a valuable tool for smoke cleaning in rooms or structures affected by contaminants and when high levels of pollutants are present.

Ozone Machines

Ozone generators are another effective tool for dealing with smoke damage. These devices create ozone gasses and kill or remove airborne particulates. They are effective at deodorizing and disinfecting, so the air in your building won't hold onto an unpleasant smoke odor.

Thermal Foggers

This type of device removes odors by recreating the same heat and pressurization that caused the odors initially. Heat is used to vaporize a solution that penetrates into hard-to-reach locations, eliminating smells that are trapped in porous walls or furnishings.

With a variety of tools available to combat the bad smells leftover after the flames are gone, fire recovery professionals can choose the best method for getting your business back on track. Smoke odor damage may not be the first thing that concerns you when fire affects your business place, but it does present a significant challenge to getting back to normal. Smoke cleaning services are a crucial part of a full recovery.

How Can I Find Mold in My Building?

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

Mold found in Afton, MN.

Ways To Find Mold In Your Building

You may be concerned about mold growth in your building in Afton, MN. Maybe your concern is due to the nature of your business and the need for a clean environment, or maybe it is for the benefit of your employees. Either way, you want to be sure your building doesn’t have a mold problem and need help finding any source of mold. Since mold is abundant in the environment, indoors and out, but it may be hard to find colonies since they thrive in places where you are not frequenting. Here are some ways you can find mold:

• Consider an indoor environmental specialist. A specialist may also use special equipment to detect hidden moisture, where your mold source might be hard to see.

• Check out all plumbing areas. Look for slow leaks as well as obvious ones. If you suspect a pipe is leaking but can’t see it in action, wrap a paper towel or cloth towel around it and check it later to see if it is saturated.

• Look for old water damage. If you had water damage from a natural flood or an indoor pipe failure, then recheck the area affected. Improper repairs may hide moisture that is still present.

• Follow your nose. Notice any musty smelling areas? Try to pinpoint the source of the moisture.

The indoor environmental specialist may do a mold test. This is especially important to check an area that was thought to be cleaned or that may have been damaged by water long ago.

Mold Remediation

Once the source of mold has been identified, the indoor environmental specialists will work with a professional mold remediator to focus on containment, removal and disinfecting of the contaminated area. Sometimes the mold gets into hard to reach spots and porous building materials that may need removed and replaced, but the right specialist can handle all aspects of your recovery from inspection to rebuild.

What Homeowners Insurance Means For Broken Pipes

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

Drying process in a Lakeland, MN home after water damage.

What Homeowners Insurance Means For Broken Pipes

A bursting pipe leads to a flood of water and costs. Insurance will reduce the costs once the claim goes through. Understanding the process is essential to know what to expect from homeowners insurance when your home has an unexpected pipe issue.

Determining Fault

First, insurance companies will send an inspector to your home to evaluate the circumstances of the claim. They will evaluate if the break was unexpected and unpreventable. They consider several situations homeowner negligence:

• An unthawed frozen pipe bursting when a heater could’ve been used
  
• Ignoring a long-term leak
  
• Tampering with the pipe and breaking it
  
• Not attending to aging or rusting pipes with regular home maintenance
  
  

It’s the burden of the insurance company to prove fault. Insurance will only cover what’s needed to fix broken pipe if the damage is unmistakably an accident.

What Is Covered

Once the policy holder is cleared of any fault, the insurance coverage deploys. Most policies will cover every cleanup and repair service necessary up to the policy’s monetary limit.

There are additional parts of an insurance policy that may be applicable to you. Dwelling coverage is offered to make sure your home is structurally sound by covering the repair of pivotal parts of your home such as walls, roofs and floors. Property coverage insures your belongings up to a limit if they are damaged or lost in a flood. Lastly, additional living expenses coverage pays for a hotel and accommodations if you are not allowed to reside in your home during restoration.

The Process

The pipe will be repaired by a plumbing professional arranged by the insurance. The secondary water damage from the burst or leak will be handled by an expert water damage cleanup crew. Drywall, carpet and paint restoration are included in these services.

A broken pipe doesn’t have to mean going broke fixing your home. An unforeseen flood in Lakeland, MN, is easily remedied by using and understanding your insurance.

3 Mistakes to Avoid During a Workplace Fire

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Fire in a building.

What Not to Do During a Workplace Fire

Making sure fire extinguishers are accessible and smoke alarms are maintained are crucial steps to take as an employer. If a fire does erupt in your workplace, it’s natural for people to panic. Unfortunately, this can lead to common mistakes that aggravate the situation. To ensure everyone makes it out of the building safely during an emergency, here are a few safety guidelines to remind your staff of during fire training.

Break Windows

Smoke inhalation is a threat to those inside the building. In an effort to access fresh air, some people might open windows or break the glass. However, when oxygenated air from outside rushes in, the intensity of the fire will build more quickly.

As smoke and heat rise, everyone should stay close to the ground and crawl to the exits to avoid fumes. If exits are blocked, put wet towels under the doors to keep out the smoke instead of opening windows.

Fail to Use Emergency Exits

fire extinguishers. When a fire starts, people might try to evacuate the building the same way they got in. However, you shouldn’t open any doors leading to the main corridors, especially if the handles are warm to the touch. Flames could be on the other side of these, and opening them could feed more oxygen to the fire and expose people to smoke.

To keep the fire from spreading, instruct your staff to use only emergency exit doors, stairwells, and fire escapes.

Forget to Alert Others

When they hear the fire alarm protection system, some people may think it’s just a test. If they don’t smell smoke or feel the heat, they might fail to take action.

To protect everyone in the workplace, people who see the flames or smoke should yell “fire” to alert others that it is not a drill. Those trained to use fire extinguishers can try to control the blaze while others call emergency services for help. If anyone in the workplace has mobility difficulties, assign someone to ensure they can get out safely during your safety plan design.

Keeping Your Basement Dry

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Water event in a basement.

During the wet months of the year, we run across homes that have had multiple water events in the basement over the years.  These homeowners have redone landscaping, put up new gutters and downspouts and, still have water, in the basement.  What else can a homeowner do?  The can look into drain tile options:

What is Drain Tile?

Chances are if your home has a basement and has experienced flooding, someone has told you to get drain tile. But what is drain tile and how does it help?

Essentially drain tile is a way to protect your home from groundwater flooding. It redirects water away from your home before it can enter and cause damage. It is one of those things you never need – until you do! Increased run off from urban expansion and more frequent severe weather systems make our homes more likely to flood. Investing in a drain tile system could save you from lengthy insurance claims and expensive cleanups in the future.

How Drain Tile Works

Despite its name, drain tile is actually not tile at all. When used in the construction industry it actually refers to drainage piping. Drain tile is a system of subterranean drainage laid around the footings of a building. Water always chooses the path of least resistance so drain tile offers the easiest path. The pipe used for drain tile is porous so water finds its way into the pipe system rather than your home. Water is then directed away from your home using gravity or an electric sump pump. Once in the pipe the system directs the water to a dry well or releases it above ground to run off into a storm drain or sewage system.

Stay Warm This Winter With These Space Heater Safety Tips

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Space heaters can be a great way to stay warm.

Tips To Prevent a Burned Space Heater

Space heaters can be a great way to stay warm over the long, cold winter months and save money on heating costs, but they can also be dangerous. Though small, space heaters can wreak havoc if their owners aren't careful. Here are a few safety tips you may want to keep in mind to prevent a burned space heater accident:

• Pick the right place to put it.
  
• Plug it directly into an outlet.
  
• Shut off and unplug your heater when it's not in use.
  
• Perform routine inspections.
  
  

If you keep the above tips in mind when heating your home, you should be able to enjoy a nice, cozy and event-free winter.

Pick the Right Floor Space

The number one cause of burned heater accidents is proximity to flammable objects. Curtains, table cloths, blankets, and other fabrics can, when they get too hot, burst into flames. You can prevent this from happening by placing your mini heater in a spot all by itself.

Plug Directly Into an Outlet

Another common cause of burned space heater accidents is overheating via a power source. Space heaters use up a lot of energy. If you use a power strip that cannot support that kind of energy, you risk overheating, electrical shock and fire. Prevent this by plugging your heater directly into a wall outlet.

Shut the Heating Unit Off

When you leave your apartment or house, turn the heater off. You should take extra precautions to do so if you have animals in the home that can knock the heater over.

Maintain Your Heating Unit

Finally, keep your unit clean and free of dust and other pollutants. By regularly wiping down the heater you can ensure that it always performs to maximum capacity and does not go up into flames because it is clogged and overworked.

Burned space heater accidents are, unfortunately, all too common. You can prevent such an accident by taking precautions. If your heater does happen to catch fire, contact your Mahtomedi, MN, smoke cleanup crew for immediate remediation assistance.

Securing Your Business After a Fire

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Lake Elmo, MN

After a Fire, How to Protect Your Business

When a major fire shuts your business down in Lake Elmo, MN, it can result in additional damage and losses unrelated to the original accident. Fire damage may leave large holes in your walls and roof, exposing inventory, equipment and other valuables not only to further damage from the elements but also to theft. Unfortunately, disaster can attract the worst sort of people and looting is common when a business has been compromised by fire. Even worse, most insurance policies will not cover losses due to theft after a fire so it’s up to you to secure your property.

Preventing Fires

The best thing you can do is prevent fires from occurring in the first place. The following precautions can reduce the chances of a fire and minimize damage if one occurs.

• Keep electrical cords in good condition
  
• Turn off electrical appliances before closing for the day
  
• Keep work areas free of flammable materials
  
• Check smoke detectors to make sure they’re working
  
• Don’t place flammable materials near coffee makers, heaters, computers, or copiers
  
• Install a sprinkler system
  
  

What You Can Do After a Fire

Once a fire has already occurred, there are still things you can do to protect your investment. Boarding up large openings in the structure can prevent invaders from entering. Sheets of plastic placed over these areas can further ensure that rain, snow and wind don’t wreak havoc on the contents of the building. You don’t need to do the work yourself. The fire damage remediation company in Lake Elmo, MN, you contact to handle fire cleanup and restoration should also offer boarding up services. They can usually get to work as soon as the fire department has assessed the safety of the building.

Fire damage is difficult enough on a business without adding theft or water damage to the original problem. As soon as a fire takes place, contact a fire remediation company to perform boarding up services so that your investment is safe from further harm.

44 - How To File an Insurance Claim After a Home Fire

10/17/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen damaged by fire in Stillwater, MN.

Fire Insurance Claim

Suffering a home fire in Stillwater, MN, can be emotionally devastating. You may have lost a lifetime’s worth of possessions and been forced out of your home. As difficult as this time is, it’s important you act quickly to ensure your insurance company pays for the fire restoration process. Follow these basic guidelines to file an insurance claim after a home fire.

1. Document the Damage

Your fire insurance provider will require proof of the damage to your home. Take photographs or videos of everything that was damaged. Don’t just focus on the areas directly affected by the fire. Smoke can cause damage throughout your house and you should document this so that you can be reimbursed for smoke cleaning. You should also try to make a list of everything you lost in the fire.

2. Call Your Provider

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. It can take as long as 15 days for a claims adjuster to arrive at your home to inspect the damage. The sooner you file your claim the sooner you can begin the fire restoration process.

If you need funds to pay for basic living expenses during this time, such as a hotel, food, or clothing, you can also request a cash advance from your provider. This comes out of your final settlement, so don’t splurge.

3. Secure Your Home

Your insurance company will only pay for damages caused by the fire, not by damages incurred after the fire. That means if the fire burned a hole in your roof and it rains, they won’t pay for water damage caused by the rain. Most companies specializing in fire damage restoration offer boarding and tarping services. They can secure your home to prevent any further damage.

4. Keep a Record of Your Communications

Filing an insurance claim in Stillwater, MN, can be a complicated and lengthy process. Keep careful records of all your phone calls, emails and meetings, including dates, times and the names of people you spoke with. If there is any dispute about payments for your fire restoration costs, these may come in handy.

When Nature Becomes an Art Critic

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

Expert restoring artwork.

When Nature Takes on the Role of an Art Critic

When mold begins to overtake your paintings, it can feel like nature is criticizing your taste in art. What’s actually happening, though, is that the paint – particularly in older paintings – and canvas are fertile breeding grounds and food for mold to devour, and the climate in Oakdale, MN may even be contributing to that. So is it possible to save your paintings with mold remediation and mold cleaning, or are they lost forever to the ravages of time and mold damage?

You Can Save It – But Stay Away from Chemicals and Water

Your first instinct may be to attack your paintings with bleach and soapy water. This can ruin your paintings even worse than the mold. Acrylics are water-soluble and will begin to dissolve; oils can react poorly with bleach and other chemicals. You might save the canvas, but you’ll lose the art. Cleaning a painting suffering from mold damage is a delicate process involving:

• Dry brushing. A soft bristle brush can be used to dry brush and remove multiple types of mold, although one should be gentle.
• A mild mix of alcohol and water applied only to the back of the painting; applying to the front can dissolve the paint.
• Careful wiping with a barely-dampened cloth with water and no chemicals. Don’t use a cloth wet enough to cause damage to the paint.
• Sunning to destroy the mold. Be delicate with this, as sun exposure can also ruin paintings. Use sunlight as a deterrent in short periods before returning to cleaning with dry brush methods again.

Prevention Is the Best Measure

Mold cleaning is difficult when it comes to a prized piece of artwork. While some can be restored, it’s better to avoid altogether by preventing mold exposure with your precious art. Keep your art stored in a cool, dry place above any normal flood levels for your area. If necessary, contact art preservation specialists about mold cleaning and prevention.

Mitigation Vs. Restoration: What You Need to Know

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Putting a stop to the progression of water damage to the frame and drywall.

What You Should Know About Mitigation vs. Restoration

When a flood damages your Oakdale, MN, business, taking immediate action can mean the difference between salvaging the building and suffering a total loss on your commercial investment. Contacting a flood cleanup company can be an effective first step to take, especially if it offers both mitigation and restoration services. Working with a restoration company can help you learn the difference between these two actions and allow you to form a useful plan when it comes to recovering from flood damage.

Mitigation Is the First Line of Defense

Flood waters can cause a great deal of damage to your business and effect both systems and inventory. To reduce the risk of loss, the cleanup and restoration company you work with may offer you mitigation services as a way to prevent ongoing harm to the building. Mitigation is performed quickly and might include the sealing of windows and doors to keep water and debris at bay, as well as the removal of water from areas that need immediate protection. A flood cleanup company will usually perform mitigation before advising you about any long-term repair options.

Restoration Can Provide Repair and Cleaning Solutions

Once flood waters have receded, a restoration company can help you move forward with repairs that might include water removal, the tearing out of damaged walls, carpeting and machinery, and checking for structural soundness. Restoration typically takes longer than mitigation but can ensure that your business is repaired and cleaned properly for the safety of your employees and customers.

Which Do You Need?

Whether you need mitigation or restoration services may depend on the extent of the damage and the severity of the flood. However, investing in both services can prevent immediate damage and remove water, mold and unpleasant odors afterward. A storm cleanup and restoration company can advise you about which services may best benefit you.

Flood waters can cause serious damage to your Oakdale, MN, business. However, working with a flood cleanup company and understanding the difference between mitigation and restoration can help you choose the services that will help your business get back on track.

Rain Rain Go Away

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

Debris from trees still falls on your roof.

During the winter months we talk a lot about watching your roof and gutters for ice buildup, to help avoid ice dams.  Today we are going to talk about your house gutters again, but only with a non-winter slant.  It may not be fall yet, but debris from trees still falls on your roof, the usual leaves or sticks on a winter day, or the really messy dried pine needles.  All of which can plug your gutters and cause rain run off to flow over the edge and collect around your foundation. 

We suggest that you periodically check your gutters and remove the buildup.  Especially when the weather man is predicting a heavy rain fall.  If the water over flows and lands around your foundation causing an excessive saturation, which can seep into your basement and cause damage.  The good news is, SERVPRO can help with the mitigation.  The bad news, homeowner’s insurance doesn’t always cover for seepage of this sort in most policies.  That’s why it’s a good idea to keep up with your home maintenance to avoid having to call us out.

What To Do When Your House Floods

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

98% of basements in houses in the US are prone to flooding and will experience water damage during their lifespan.

Flooding is a major problem for many residents in the US. Water Damage Defense states that about 98% of basements in houses in the US are prone to flooding and will experience water damage during their lifespan. And when it comes to house floods, no matter how minor it is, it can be damaging and can leave your home vulnerable to damage and mold growth. 

Whether the flooding is caused by heavy rain, sewer back-up, or a broken pipe, it is crucial to deal with the flood as soon as possible to prevent further water damage. Here are the first things that you need to do when faced with house floods.

• Prioritize your safety

Floodwater poses a lot of risks both to your safety and health. The electricity that has come in contact with water can be life-threatening. Make sure to turn off the main breaker and all other individual fuses in your home before you step into the floodwater. If the water is too high, call a licensed electrician to inspect and evaluate your power box condition. Don’t forget to wear protective gear too, such as gloves, boots, and a mask. You don’t know what contaminates the water; it is best to protect yourself against the harmful chemicals present.

If you have kids at home, make sure to refrain your children from eating the foods that may have come in contact with water for an extended period. Transfer furniture and other items that can still be salvaged in a higher area.

• Identify the source of the flood and stop it.

Once the main power supply is turned off, the next thing that you will need to do is to find the cause of flooding and prevent more water from coming into your home. This will help prevent further water damage to your house. If the cause of a house flood is a leaky or broken pipe, then turn off your home’s main water supply.

• Document the damage.

Before you start removing the floodwater to clean up your home, take a video or pictures of everything affected by the water. Documenting the damage done by the flooding is crucial for your insurance claims. Take photos of the damaged items, the warped wall and flooring, and other water damage in your home. Then keep a copy of every single document that you have presented to your insurance agent. 

• Call your insurance provider.

Once all the necessary documents are ready, call your insurance provider and inform them about the incident. Your insurance company will then send an adjuster to inspect the damage and evaluate the losses. 

• Get help from a reputable water damage professional.

You may be tempted to do the water removal and cleaning process on your own. However, time is of the essence when it comes to water damage. The earlier and the faster you deal with the flood, the lesser damage it will cause. The best way to deal with water damage caused by house floods is by calling a reputable water restoration company like Water Damage America. The good thing about hiring professional water restoration contractors is that they can also assist you with your insurance claims.

How Mold Can Damage Your House

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage is the leading cause of mold growth in many homes.

While mold is not harmful at all as it participates in the decomposition of dead organisms and other aspects of the environment, the problem happens when it enters your house and damages it.

Water damage is the leading cause of mold growth in many homes. According to insurance industry research, 98% of US basements will experience some type of water damage, while about 14,000 Americans suffer water damage emergencies at home or work each day.

Once molds enter and penetrate your home, its population can start growing in just 24 hours. It’s only then a matter of time before they cause permanent damage to your house.

Where do molds usually grow?

Molds only need two things to thrive and multiply —- damp and humid environment and permeable objects. With this, the following areas in your home make it the perfect breeding ground for molds.

-Bathrooms

-Drywall

-Carpets

-Attics

-Ventilation and air-conditioning system

-Upholstery

-Ceiling

-Areas around washing machines and dryers

-Fireplaces and chimneys

How molds damage your home?

Once molds are attached to a specific area or part of your house, it starts to eat away the material of its host; causing it to weaken. A weakened foundation of the house should be dealt with right away, or else it may collapse or result in a more costly repair.

Early detection is the best solution to deal with molds in your house. Here are the sneaky signs that molds may be growing inside your home.

-The nasty smell coming from your heating and cooling systems

-Discoloration or dark spots forming on the wall and ceiling

-Musty odors that seem to linger in the air

-Mold can cause health effects

How to deal with molds in your home?

Molds may be microscopic, but they are also tough to deal with. They can’t be removed with simple cleaning using soap and water. It is important to note that where there are molds, there is also a source of moisture. Deal with water leaks right away, no matter how minor the problem is. For significant water damage, calling water damage professionals is the best option.

It is also crucial to call a professional mold remediation company when you spot molds in your house. The good thing about hiring professional services is that they have the proper equipment in dealing with molds. They can altogether remove mold out of your home and even get to its source.

How Often Should Fire Sprinklers Be Tested?

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Many buildings in the United States rely on an automatic fire sprinkler system as their primary source for overall fire protection.

Many buildings in the United States rely on an automatic fire sprinkler system as their primary source for overall fire protection. Because of the emphasis placed on these systems for protecting both life and property, there are stringent rules and regulations governing their upkeep—two of which (testing and inspection), are critical to maintaining fire sprinkler system effectiveness in the event of a fire.

Fire Sprinkler System Testing Frequency

Every 3 Months

Physically test fire sprinkler mechanical devices

Every Year

Physically test the entire fire sprinkler system—water flow, alarms, valves, dry pipe, fire pump, etc.

Every 5 Years

Physically test sprinklers exposed to high temperatures or harsh conditions as well as all sprinkler system gauges (alternatively, gauges can simply be replaced), then every 10 years thereafter

Every 10 Years

Physically test dry sprinkler systems

Every 20 Years or Longer

Physically test fast-response sprinklers at 20 years and then every 10 years thereafter

Physically test standard sprinklers at 50 years and then every 10 years thereafter

Fire Sprinkler Systems Inspection Frequencies

Every Month

Inspect dry pipe, pre-action, deluge, and wet pipe fire sprinkler system gauges

Every 3 Months

Inspect water flow and valve alarm devices, signal devices, hydraulic nameplates, electrically supervised control valves, and fire department connections

Every Year

Inspect hanger/seismic bracing and supports, signage, piping/fittings, and sprinklers, including spare sprinklers

Every 5 Years

Inspect all sprinkler piping for any blockage

As a Facility Manager, keeping up with your facility’s automatic sprinkler system is one of the most critical parts of your building’s overall fire protection plan. And because it’s so important, you need to trust it to a qualified National Fire & Life Safety Provider. Besides having the expertise to handle the testing and inspections of your fire sprinkler system, they are typically licensed, meaning they are trained and certified to do this kind of work.

How to Prepare for a Natural Disaster

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Disasters often come quickly and unexpectedly.

It’s unlikely that you’ll have a lot of time to prepare when a natural disaster strikes. Disasters often come quickly and unexpectedly. According to the Public Policy Institute of California only 29% of Californians feel they’re very knowledgeable about preparing for a disaster.

Being prepared can greatly reduce your risk of injury or damage following a natural disaster. Follow these steps to prepare for a natural disaster.

1. Understand Your Level of Risk

Before you can set up an emergency plan or create a disaster kit, you need to know what types of natural disasters pose a threat in your area. You should try to create your disaster plan based on the most likely emergencies to happen in your area. Common types of natural disasters in California include:

Earthquakes: California has many active fault lines, which make it prone to earthquakes. An earthquake occurs when the earth’s crust along a fault line shifts suddenly. This causes movement, like shaking, on the ground level. This shaking can cause unsecured objects to fall, such as a book falling off of a bookshelf, or cause damage to the foundation of buildings.

Wildfires: Wildfires are fast-moving fires that feed off of dry vegetation, such as desert plants like sagebrush. They commonly start due to a lightning strike, but can also be caused by human carelessness. A wildfire can grow quickly and cause major damage to entire neighborhoods or destroy thousands of acres of wilderness. Southern California, in particular, is prone to wildfires due to limited annual rainfall and dry vegetation. Wildfires can potentially be stopped or slowed using a wildfire defensible space around your home.

Mudslides: Mudslides are a type of landslide that is caused by heavy rainfall sweeping loose soil and debris down steep hills. Several areas in California are prone to landslides and mudslides, especially desert landscapes after a sudden rainfall.

Extreme Heat:

Extreme heat is when there is a long period of time with high heat and humidity. This could be 2-3 days of temperatures above 90 degrees. Not only can extreme heat be dangerous to the human body, it is also dangerous to your home. Damages include inconsistent moisture in the foundation, deteriorating roofs, or even warped hardwood floors.

2. Plan and Practice Your Disaster Plan

Once you know what natural disasters you’re most likely to encounter, you should come up with a disaster plan in case of an emergency. Since disasters strike unexpectedly, you may not be with your family when one hits. Having a plan in place that everyone knows should help you find one another, even if there’s a power outage or you can’t use a phone.

Your disaster plan should include information such as:

The meeting place for your family.

Potential evacuation routes from home, work or school.

A shelter plan in case your home is damaged.

Considerations for family members with special needs, including children, seniors or those with disabilities.

An emergency contact, such as a family member in a different state.

The location of important documents, such as a bank deposit box or fire-proof safe in your home.

A plan for pets in case of an emergency.

Your plan is only helpful if everyone in your family knows and understands it, so it’s crucial to practice it regularly. This is especially true if you have young children. Sit down as a family and go over the plan in detail, then start practicing.

Remember that different disasters may have slightly different emergency plans. For example, if a wildfire is heading towards your neighborhood, you’ll likely have to evacuate the area and won’t be able to meet your family in front of your home. Be sure to set up multiple meeting spots for different scenarios.

3. Invest in a Disaster Preparedness Kit

Whether you buy a pre-made kit or build one yourself, a disaster preparedness kit could help your family stay safe after a disaster. You can create an emergency kit for your home, and smaller kits for your vehicles. This helps you stay safe even if you experience a disaster while on the road.

Your disaster kit should include:

Non-perishable food

Clean drinking and sanitation water in airtight containers

First aid kit

Battery-powered radio

Flashlights

Extra batteries

Bedding and a change of clothes

Power bank and charging cables for your cell phone

Whistle

Pen or pencil and a notebook

Copies of family documents, such as insurance cards and ID

Tarp, duct tape and rope in case you need to build a shelter

Personal supplies – prescription medications, glasses, feminine hygiene products

Infant supplies – diapers, formula, wipes

Pet supplies

Cash

You should check your kit at least once a year to make sure everything still works and nothing has expired. Put the kit in an easy-to-access location in your home and make sure each family member knows its location.

4. Learn Basic First Aid Skills

Investing in a CPR certification program could potentially save a life in a disaster situation. If you can’t take a CPR class, you should at least learn basic first aid skills. Not only are these skills helpful in the event of a disaster, but you can use them in non-emergency situations as well. There are lots of ways to learn basic first aid- from taking an in-person class to watching instructional videos on the internet. Find the method that works best for you to learn.

You should also consider teaching your children how to use vital components of your first aid kit. Sit down with your family and go through the kit. Remember that many children may feel anxious at the thought of their parents getting hurt, so try to keep your lessons fun. For example, let your child pretend to be a doctor and use extra supplies, like gauze, to treat your fake injuries.

5. Reduce Risks in Your Home

Eliminating hazards in your home, office or vehicle could help you avoid an injury if you experience a natural disaster. Earthquakes, for example, are common in California. The shaking of an earthquake can cause items to fall off shelves or even knock over furniture. Securing objects on tabletops or bookshelves and anchoring your furniture helps reduce the chance it falls over. A wildfire defensible space is another example of reducing risks around your home.

6 Steps You Should Take During a Power Outage

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Most power outages are short.

Most power outages are short. They may only last a few seconds to a couple of minutes. Now and then, however, you could face a more prolonged outage. Being prepared for a longer outage should help your family stay safe while the power’s out and properly return to using electricity in your home when the power comes back. Follow these six steps to prepare for and handle any prolonged power outages that could come your way.

1. Create an Outage Kit

The key to safely navigating a power outage — especially an extended outage — is being prepared before the outage happens. Create a home emergency kit that includes supplies you’ll need if the power goes out. Some things you might want to have in your kit include:

Flashlights — either fully-charged rechargeable or battery-powered

Extra batteries

Candles in safe holders

Lighter or matches

Battery-operated or crank radio

External battery packs/charging ports for cell phones and other small electronics

Basic first aid kit

A few bottled waters and non-perishable food items like granola bars

Store your outage or emergency kit in a place that’s easy to find and access if the power goes out and you’re left in the dark. The last thing you’ll want to do when the power goes out is rummage through boxes in the dark.

2. Practice for Power Outages

If you have small children or someone with special needs, like an elderly parent, living in your home, do a few tests runs so you know what to do when your power goes out. Small children are often scared of the dark and may panic if the power goes out at night. Store a child-sized flashlight in their room and teach them where to find it. This makes it easier for them to go right to their flashlight if the lights suddenly go out.

For households with someone who has special needs, like medical equipment that needs electricity, be sure you have a backup plan in case of a power outage. You might consider asking friends or family within driving distance if you can use their homes when the power goes out, as long as they have power.

3. Investigate Why the Power Is Out

When the power goes out, your first step after grabbing your outage kit should be to find out why it went out. Look out of the nearest window to see if your streetlights or neighbor’s homes still have power. If only your house is dark, you may have tripped a breaker. Find your electrical box and check if any breakers are off. If so, switch them back on to see if that restores power.

If your entire block is out of power, you can check with your electric company to see if they know about an outage. Many electric providers have outage maps and data on their websites so you can easily check on the status of your power from a cell phone. If no outage is reported, call your electric company and let them know an outage has occurred. They’ll likely send out a crew right away to identify the problem and restore power as soon as possible.

4. Unplug Electronics and Turn Off Lights

Go around your home to unplug electronics and turn off any lights that were on before the power went out. This is an important and often overlooked step during a power outage. Unplugging your electronics like your TV or microwave can help reduce potential damage to your electrical system or electronics when the power is restored.

When power comes back on after an outage, your home’s electrical system gets a surge of electricity. This surge can cause damage to electronics. You might want to leave one light on the inside and one light on the outside. The inside light will help you know when power is back on, and the outside light can help the power company’s crew know when they’ve restored power to your home.

5. Use Generators Safely

A standby generator can be an important tool to keep your power up and running if the power to the grid goes out. Generators also come with a lot of inherent risks. Know how to operate your generator safely before you need to use it during a power outage. Some essential generator safety tips include:

Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Consider hiring an electrician to help you install a back-up home generator to your electrical panel.

Never connect portable generators to your home’s electrical system.

Always operate your generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from doors or windows.

Never bring a running generator into your home, garage or basement.

Connect lights or appliances directly to the generator.

Along with generators, you should never bring outdoor heating or cooking equipment into your home to help heat it. Things like propane camp stoves, charcoal grills, and outdoor heaters give off carbon monoxide and need to be used in well-ventilated, outdoor areas to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

6. Know What to Do When Power Comes Back

Short power outages will usually end with your lights and appliances coming back on in one wave. After a longer outage, however, you may need to take a few steps to restore power to your home safely. When the power returns, first inspect your home for damage. If there’s standing water in your basement, do not enter the water until you’re sure there are no live electrical wires that could electrify the water.

If you find no damage to your home, start plugging your appliances and electronics back in. Start with large appliances like your refrigerator and wait a few minutes before plugging in each new electronic. This will help your home’s electrical system safely send electricity to your electronics without surging. When your electronics are back on the grid, check your emergency kit and restock any supplies you may have used so you’re prepared for the next power outage.

Spring Cleaning Tips for Homeowners

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Long days and warmer temperatures make for a great time to do a little spring cleaning.

Winter has finally started to thaw and the chill in the air is beginning to fade away. Even if you live in a warmer climate with mild winters, springtime brings longer days. Those long days and warmer temperatures make for a great time to do a little spring cleaning.

As a homeowner, your spring-cleaning routine should include a little more than just scrubbing the bathrooms and vacuuming the floors. You can use spring as a time to check up on parts of your home that affect property value and longevity of your house. Our list of spring-cleaning tips for homeowners gives you some ideas for not only cleaning your home but making sure all systems are running correctly.

Remove Dust and Built-Up Dirt

Just like a regular house cleaning, your spring-cleaning routine should include a complete scrub down of your home. You can sweep, vacuum and mop floors to pull up the dust and grime that has built up over winter. Dust along molding and floorboards to pick up the dirt that has settled there. Ceiling fans tend to collect a lot of dust over the winter, so be sure to wipe them down thoroughly using a vacuum attachment or old pillowcase for dusting. Also, be sure to check that the fan is rotating in the correct direction. In spring and summer, you want it to spin counter-clockwise by pressing the switch on the fan’s side. As hot air rises, the counter-clockwise rotation forces cool air down towards the floor.

Do the Laundry

You’ve been doing laundry all winter so you’ll have clean clothes to wear, of course, but spring is a great time to air out warm-weather clothes and linens. Perhaps you use heavier sheets, such as flannel sheets, in the cooler winter months. Use your spring-cleaning day to pull out lighter bedding and wash the winter sheets before storing them until next winter. Alternatively, you might just want to switch up your color palette or décor for the warmer months. Many people switch to a light color scheme for the warmer months. Fresh colored bedcovers such as green, yellow and light blue can help welcome spring into your home.

While you’re doing your laundry, make sure to clean out your washer and dryer and check them for any issues. Be sure that the water lines running to your washing machine aren’t leaking. Give the tub of the washer a good rinse and sweep or vacuum behind and underneath the machine. You will probably also want to do this with your dryer, as well as checking that the vent is properly connected and vents cleanly outside your home.

Check Pipes and Water Lines

An increase in your monthly water or utility bill could be a signal that you have a burst or leaking pipe. Water damage in your home can be a costly expense that is a pain to deal with. Even if you don’t suspect a leak, springtime is a great opportunity to look through your home for any potential leaks or cracks. Check each of your faucets, including the ones outside your home, to make sure that they aren’t dripping. In bathrooms, you should inspect the areas around bathtubs, showers and toilets for leaking or damaged caulking so you can fix it before it becomes an issue.

Service Heating and Cooling Systems

Your heating and cooling units might be some of the most expensive and important equipment in your home. Luckily, these systems tend to have a long life with proper care. Proper maintenance of your heating and cooling systems can save you a lot of money, and a lot of hassle down the road. Spring makes an excellent time to have your heating system checked out after running it all winter. Your air conditioner, likewise, could likely use a checkup from a professional before using it through the hot summer months. You may need to replace things like air filters that have gotten filled with dust and dirt.

Declutter Closets and Storage

Spring cleaning is an ideal time for going through old winter clothes or items and getting rid of things you don’t need. Go through each of the closets or storage spaces in your home and make three piles of the items you find. One will be for keeping, one for donating to charity and one for tossing out in the garbage or recycling. Put your items into their respective piles to help declutter your home. This exercise is also great for making a home inventory list. Home inventory lists are a breakdown of the items in your home that could assist you when filing a homeowners insurance claim. Your list should include important items you would want to be replaced and a short description of each item, including brand and serial number if possible.

Let in Fresh Air While Checking Windows and Doors

One of the best parts of a spring-cleaning day is the chance to let in fresh new air and let out the stuffiness of winter. You can open up all your doors and windows while cleaning to enjoy the sunshine and the springtime breeze. Not only does this make your home feel refreshed, but it also gives you a chance to look at doors and windows for signs of damage or leaks. Be sure to check the caulking around the windows and doors. Sunshine and exposure to the elements can cause caulk to dry out or flake off. Also, check for signs of water damage anywhere around your windows or doors. This might indicate you have a leak from a broken seal.

Clean Gutters

Over the winter, your gutters may have gotten clogged with debris from trees, birds or squirrels. You can either hire a service to clean your gutters for you or you can clean them yourself. If you choose to clean them yourself, remember to be cautious when using a ladder. Always have someone there to help you and hold the ladder for stability.

Check Roofing

A new roof is an incredibly expensive undertaking, so it’s important to keep your current roof in the best shape possible. Check your roof for signs of stress or damage. This might include missing, broken or loose shingles. Additionally, check shingles to make sure they haven’t lost their protective layer. That gritty, asphalt-like substance on a roof tile protects it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Just like with gutter cleaning, you will want to use caution and have a friend on the ground when you’re up on your roof.

Touch Up Peeling Paint

Peeling or cracking paint on a home never looks good. Even if it’s just cosmetic, peeling paint may lower the overall value and curb appeal of your home. It’s also usually a fairly easy fix. For homes with a lot of peeling paint, or cracked paint in hard-to-reach places, consider hiring a professional contractor to take care of the work for you. If you have a few small spots, you might want to take on the project yourself.

Refresh and Renew Your Home with a Spring Cleaning

A good spring cleaning helps your home feel refreshed and renewed for the warm season. Additionally, spring cleaning gives you the chance to go through your home’s important equipment and systems. You’ll be able to ensure everything is working properly and should be able to feel confident enjoying your home throughout the sunny spring and summer months.

Spring Cleaning Benefits and Tips for the Office

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Warm weather is just around the corner and that can only mean one thing—spring cleaning. No more dreary weather, muddy footprints, and soaked carpets. Spring is almost here and that means we get to welcome a fresh start.

Now is the perfect time to stow away your winter-related items, declutter unnecessary items, reorganize, and refresh the office. We encourage you to make the most of the upcoming season by reading the rest of our blog post which contains the benefits of office spring cleaning and tips on where to begin.

Cleaning is always a good idea—especially now—as we continue to live with the pandemic along with practicing better hygiene. Five benefits that can stem from spring cleaning your office include:

Reduced stress

Increased productivity

Positive mood

Allergy symptom relief

Healtheir lifestyle

Reduced Stress

Cleaning can help reduce stress because it offers a sense of accomplishment and also makes for a very relaxing experience. Digging through piles of papers and other office materials can be extremely time-consuming and stressful if you cannot find what you are looking for. By cleaning out your office space, you’ll spend less time worrying and stressing about where specific items are.

Increased Productivity

It should come as no surprise that a clean workspace helps to increase productivity. Having pens, papers, staplers, and other office supplies scattered around your desk can be distracting you from your priorities. By cleaning, tossing away unnecessary clutter, organizing, and placing your items back where they belong, not only will your workspace look more presentable, but you’ll also improve your workflow efficiency.

Positive Mood

Clutter is often linked with negative emotions such as irritability and confusion, whereas a clean workspace is linked with positive emotions such as calmness and contentment. A clean environment will help to elevate your mood as it gives you better control of your surroundings. Not to mention, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment once your workspace is neat and tidy.

Allergy Symptom Relief

Aside from cleaning, the springtime is also unfortunately known for being allergy season. If you have employees who suffer from seasonal allergies, we recommend putting together a regular cleaning and disinfecting routine in order to get rid of immune system triggers such as dust and pollen. We also recommend checking your office’s ventilation system to ensure good indoor air quality.

Healtheir Lifestyle

All of the benefits above can be combined to support an overall healthier lifestyle physically, mentally, and emotionally. Spring is the season for new beginnings so get started by cleaning out your workspace today. Not sure where to start? Read our tips below!

Spring Cleaning Tips

Clean and disinfect all surfaces, especially the ones you are in daily contact with such as your desk, keyboard, door handles, etc.

Declutter and organize your drawers, placing everything back where they belong and tossing away unnecessary items

Keep only your frequently used items on your desk and store the rest

Manage long, messy wires or cables by using Velcro strips for a neat and professional look

Perform a digital declutter by getting rid of files and emails that you no longer need and organizing the icons on your desktop to make them more easily accessible

Check in with the appropriate manager regarding the office ventilation system

Make cleaning and disinfecting a part of your weekly routine if possible—if not, consider hiring a commercial cleaning company to come in once a week or as needed.

6 Ways to Save on Electric Bills

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

When you’re looking for ways to save money, lowering your bills should be a top priority.

When you’re looking for ways to save money, lowering your bills should be a top priority. Some bills are easy to lower, such as that premium cable subscription you never use. Others might seem impossible to cut down.

If you’re like a lot of people, you’d love to lower your electric bill, but you’re not sure where to start. The good news is there are a lot of little changes you can make to help cut energy costs. Start by trying these six simple tips to lower your electric bill.

1. Program Your Heating and Cooling

There are a lot of fancy smart-home devices available today, and they can get pretty expensive. Luckily, you don’t need to spend a fortune to add a few smart elements that can help cut your power bills.

Start with a programmable thermostat. You can opt for a top-of-the-line smart thermostat or a simple programmable one. Some smart thermostats allow you to change your home’s temperature from your smartphone remotely. Even a simple programmable thermostat lets you set the temperature in your home for specific times of the day.

Programming your heating and cooling saves you money on electricity by maximizing efficiency when you need it most. In the summer, you could set the thermostat to start running the air conditioning about an hour before you get home from work in the evening. You’ll come home to a cool house while not wasting money cooling the house when no one’s home.

2. Unplug Appliances When Not in Use

It’s not always easy to tell if an appliance or gadget is using electricity when it’s turned off, but a lot of them do. Even if you hit the “off” button, leaving an appliance plugged in could be costing you money.

You can cut this unnecessary expense by unplugging appliances when you’re done with them. After making breakfast, unplug the toaster so it doesn’t sap energy till the next morning. You can do the same with almost any appliance or tool in your home — from gaming consoles and televisions to coffee makers and microwaves.

Unplugging all of your appliances after each use might seem inconvenient. Once you’re in the habit, however, you’ll enjoy a lower electric bill while also reducing your chance of overloading an outlet and causing a home fire.

3. Wash Your Clothes in Cold Water

Traditional clothes-washing wisdom might tell you to use hot water to get your clothes clean. That’s because laundry detergents of the past needed the heat from hot water to activate. Most modern detergents, however, can work just as well in cold water as hot.

This is good news for your wallet since heating the water for a load of laundry uses a lot of energy. By washing clothes in cold water, you’re reducing the amount of electricity you need.

As a bonus, you’ll also get more use out of your clothes. Cold water is generally less harsh on your clothing than hot water. Hot water can cause fibers to break down and lead to shrinking, running dyes, or faded colors.

Make your laundry even more energy-efficient by skipping a cycle in the hot dryer. You can line-dry your clothes for similar benefits — you’ll save money on energy costs and your clothes won’t be exposed to extreme heat.

4. Wear the Right Clothing

It may sound silly but wearing the right clothes indoors can help reduce your heating and cooling costs, ultimately lowering your electric bill.

In the winter, you might be tempted to crank the heater and start a cozy fire in the fireplace. After a while, you realize you’re warm. Instead of turning down the heat or putting out the fire, you change into shorts and a tank top to beat the heat.

In the summer, you could end up doing the opposite. You run the air conditioner so the house is cold, then pull on a sweatshirt or long pants because you’re chilly.

Most of the time, you probably don’t realize you’re changing to match your current comfort level. The next time you reach for an extra layer or change into summer clothes in the winter, try adjusting your home’s thermostat instead.

5. Maintain Your HVAC System

Your heating and cooling system has to work hard to give you an ideal indoor temperature, especially if the outdoor temperature is extreme. The best way to keep your HVAC system from running up your electric bill is to practice proper maintenance.

The easiest step is to replace your air filter regularly. The air filter works to keep debris, dust, and allergens out of the air in your home. As the particles collect in the filter, the system has to work harder to move air through. Check your air filter regularly. If it’s dirty and dusty, it’s time to replace it.

You should also consider hiring a professional HVAC technician to service your system each year. A professional will have the tools and knowledge to alert you if there are any issues and clean your system so it’s running properly.

6. Keep Your Appliances in Good Condition

A dirty appliance in need of repairs often costs a lot more to run than a clean one. Reduce your energy costs by keeping your appliances in good repair. If you notice an appliance isn’t running as efficiently, such as a dryer not drying clothes, clean out dust, dirt, and buildup or contact a repair company.

When your appliance gets beyond repair, you might want to think about replacing it with a newer, more efficient model. Many modern appliances are designed to reduce energy costs and may even come with a rebate from your local power company.

Reducing your energy expenses can be easy is you follow these six steps. Remember to monitor your monthly bill to see the impact these costing-saving ideas can have on your electric bill.

HOW MOLD CAN DAMAGE YOUR HOUSE

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage is the leading cause of mold growth in many homes.

While mold is not harmful at all as it participates in the decomposition of dead organisms and other aspects of the environment, the problem happens when it enters your house and damages it.

Water damage is the leading cause of mold growth in many homes. According to insurance industry research, 98% of US basements will experience some type of water damage, while about 14,000 Americans suffer water damage emergencies at home or work each day.

Once molds enter and penetrate your home, its population can start growing in just 24 hours. It’s only then a matter of time before they cause permanent damage to your house.

Where do molds usually grow?
Molds only two things to thrive and multiply —- damp and humid environment and permeable objects. With this, the following areas in your home make it the perfect breeding ground for molds.
-Bathrooms
-Drywall
-Carpets
-Attics
-Ventilation and air-conditioning system
-Upholstery
-Ceiling
-Areas around washing machines and dryers
-Fireplaces and chimneys

How molds damage your home?
Once molds are attached to a specific area or part of your house, it starts to eat away the material of its host; causing it to weaken. A weakened foundation of the house should be dealt with right away, or else it may collapse or result in a more costly repair.

Early detection is the best solution to deal with molds in your house. Here are the sneaky signs that molds may be growing inside your home.
-The nasty smell coming from your heating and cooling systems
-Discoloration or dark spots forming on the wall and ceiling
-Musty odors that seem to linger in the air

How to deal with molds in your home?
Molds may be microscopic, but they are also tough to deal with. They can’t be removed with simple cleaning using soap and water. It is important to note that where there are molds, there is also a source of moisture. Deal with water leaks right away, no matter how minor the problem is. For significant water damage, calling water damage professionals is the best option.

It is also crucial to call a professional mold remediation company when you spot molds in your house. The good thing about hiring professional services is that they have the proper equipment in dealing with molds. They can altogether remove mold out of your home and even get to its source.

Understanding Commercial Floor Cleaning and its Benefits

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

It can be easy to take floors for granted when it comes to a comprehensive cleaning and maintenance plan for your facility.

It can be easy to take floors for granted when it comes to a comprehensive cleaning and maintenance plan for your facility. However, floors are just as important as any other part of a building, if not even more so.

Clean and shiny floors are a key aspect of any well-maintained building and successful business. However, over time, floors can easily become scuffed, worn, and permanently dirty. This can happen sooner if routine floor care and maintenance is neglected.

What is Floor Stripping and Waxing?

Many hard floors, such as linoleum, acrylic, hardwood, and vinyl have a special wax coating to keep them shiny and make them easier to clean. The wax protects the flooring from dirt, debris, scratches, and cracking.

Stripping is the process of completely removing the preexisting wax coating, while waxing refers to re-applying a fresh coat of wax finisher. Stripping and waxing can be a difficult undertaking without the correct training, tools, and materials, so hiring a commercial floor cleaning company is strongly advised.

Benefits of Hiring a Commercial Floor Cleaning Service

Not only is the process itself rather involved, but proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is also required, which may not be readily available given our current public health crisis.

To properly strip and wax a floor, expensive appliances and tools are needed, including a floor scrubber, a wet-dry vacuum, and a floor buffer. Unless you are a commercial cleaner, you likely do not have these items at your facility.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the potential cost if the process is performed incorrectly. If a floor cleaning project goes awry, there could be potentially irreparable damage to already expensive floors, massive inconveniences to everyone involved, and an even bigger financial burden by having to replace sections of the floor, or even the entire floor.

Stripping and waxing a floor is something that can be done by someone on your team, but hiring an industrial floor cleaning service would be a safer and more cost-effective solution.

8 Spring Home Maintenance Projects You Should Do This Season

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Spring brings longer days and warmer weather, both of which make it easier for us to plan and take on important spring home maintenance tasks.

Spring brings longer days and warmer weather, both of which make it easier for us to plan and take on important spring home maintenance tasks. From repairing property damage to preparing for summer, there are a number of things that we should do to “tune up” a home’s major systems and features. Doing so doesn’t just maintain your home’s property value – it also helps to prevent bigger breakdowns and repairs down the line.

Not sure where to start? These 8 basic maintenance needs are each worth your attention this month:

Get Your HVAC Inspected

If there is one system you always want to be functional, it’s your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. All too often, people skip spring maintenance only to find their system breaking down during the hot summer. Rather than losing the comforts of home during a heat wave, you should hire a licensed professional to service the equipment before the start of summer. Just be sure to discuss any health and safety measures needed during your appointment this spring.

Clean Your Dryer Vent

One of the biggest fire hazards in your home is a clogged dryer vent. Fortunately, you can prevent this hazard by cleaning out your dryer vents each spring.

Check Your Windows’ Caulking

Caulk, the material used to seal the seams around your windows both inside and outside your home, doesn’t last forever, and its breakdown leads to air drafts and water leaks. It’s important to check the caulking in your home every spring for tears, cracks, or gaps. Should you find damaged caulking, it will need to be replaced, either by you or a professional.

Inspect Your Home’s Woodwork

Because it’s exposed to the elements, exterior woodwork requires lots of maintenance. Each spring, you should inspect the state of your wood decks, fences, railings, trellises, pergolas, and other outdoor structures.

In addition to planning necessary repairs and addressing wood rot, you should also plan on staining or resealing these structures every year or two. During your inspection, you should also check for signs of termites, as these insects need to be addressed by pest control sooner rather than later.

Examine Your Roof

Roof maintenance is one of the most important parts of home ownership. Are the shingles in place? Are the vent pipes, flashing, or anything else damaged? Answering these questions annually can help you spot small issues before they become big ones. If you notice anything that needs closer inspection or repair, the next step is to call a roofer, who can work with you to safely determine your next steps.

Clean Your Gutters

While not exactly a favorite chore around the house, cleaning your home’s gutters is extremely important. Blocked or damaged gutters can’t do their job during those numerous spring rain showers. Clogged gutters can also lead to wood rot, pest infestations, and other problems. So debris needs to be removed from gutters each spring, and you should also check that downspouts are still turned away from your home. Additionally, make sure water isn’t collecting at the foundation of your home.

Pressure Wash Your House

Rain, leaves, dust, and other outdoor elements tend to create a buildup of residue on your home’s exterior. In the worst cases, this buildup can lead to green mold! So it’s best to pressure wash the outside of your house each spring to prevent this. At the very least, the annual wash will add shine to your property!

Check Your Basement

In addition to examining exterior elements and essential household systems, you should also examine the state of your basement each spring. Because moisture is a common problem in basements, these are easy places for mold and other types of fungus to grow. To prevent a serious problem from developing, you should examine your basement each spring for signs of moisture or water damage.

These home maintenance projects each play an important part in keeping your home in good condition. Not only will they help you live comfortably and safely – but they’ll also be important should you look to sell your house at some point. So be sure to schedule time to complete each maintenance item this spring.

Fire Safety Equipment: Five Pieces You Need for Your Home

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

Our homes may be our sanctuaries, but they also present multiple opportunities for fire danger.

Our homes may be our sanctuaries, but they also present multiple opportunities for fire danger. An unattended stovetop can result in a kitchen fire, while electrical systems and appliances can overheat. Fireplaces, candles, flammable liquids, and outdoor grills — to name just a few — all add to the risk.

Having the correct fire safety equipment in your house is essential to keep your family safe and your home protected. This article highlights the five most important pieces of equipment needed to safeguard your home and loved ones. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re prepared is worth the time, effort, and expense involved.

1. Smoke Alarms

This is your first line of defense. According to the Red Cross, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires all new homes to have inter-connected hard-wired smoke alarms with battery backup. If you don’t have an interconnected system, battery-powered alarms are easily installed. Both types of alarms need to be located on every level of the home with one inside each bedroom.

4 important rules for smoke alarms:

1. Never disable them – even if they go off when they shouldn’t.
2. Check them once a month using the test feature.
3. Replace the batteries at least once a year.
4. Replace the alarm every 10 years as older alarms may not perform properly

2. Fire Extinguishers

Since most home fires start in the kitchen, you’ll want to put a fire extinguisher in there, at a minimum. But it’s recommended to place them in multiple locations around the house. Since extinguishers from various makers all work differently, it’s a good idea for the adults in the household to get training from the local fire department. Extinguishers should be installed near exits, away from heat sources, and up high enough that kids can’t reach them.

3. Sprinkler Systems

While a smoke alarm will detect smoke, an automatic sprinkler system gives you a way of dealing with flames immediately. While you’re waiting on the fire department to arrive, sprinklers can help slow a fire’s progress or can even douse it completely. Moreover, a sprinkler system can prevent deadly gases and smoke from affecting your family and could also extinguish a fire that breaks out while you’re away from home.

4. Carbon Monoxide Alarms

There’s a good reason carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer.” This deadly gas is invisible, odorless, and colorless and even a small amount can be fatal if inhaled for long enough. Install carbon monoxide alarms on each level of your home and outside bedrooms. If the alarm emits its high-pitched warning, get outside as quickly as possible or open windows and doors and take deep breaths of fresh air. CO poisoning can cause headaches, nausea, and tiredness and can be mistaken for flu.

5. Fire Escape Ladders

If your home has more than one floor, collapsible fire ladders should be a part of your fire-safety arsenal. Place a ladder where it’s easy to access in every upper-level room in case your evacuation route gets cut off by smoke or fire. Then, have the entire family rehearse the steps they would take to get the ladders out and attached to open windows.

No one wants to dwell on the possibility of their family being in danger or their home being consumed by flames, but this is one situation where being properly prepared could save lives and property. If you haven’t already done so, make an escape plan and go over it with your family. And check your homeowner’s insurance to make sure your policy is up to date with adequate coverage.

Be Prepared to Stay Safe and Healthy in Winter

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storms and cold temperatures can be dangerous.

Winter storms and cold temperatures can be dangerous. Stay safe and healthy by planning ahead. Prepare your home and vehicles. Prepare for power outages and outdoor activity. Check on older adults.

Although winter comes as no surprise, many of us may not be ready for its arrival. If you are prepared for the hazards of winter, you are more likely to stay safe and healthy when temperatures start to fall.

Prepare Your Home

Staying inside is no guarantee of safety. Take these steps to keep your home safe and warm during the winter months.

• Winterize your home.
  • Install weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows.
  • Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls.
  • Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks.
• Check your heating systems.
  • Have your heating system serviced professionally to make sure that it is clean, working properly, and ventilated to the outside.
  • Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys.
  • Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available.
• If you do not have a working smoke detector, install one. Test batteries monthly and replace them twice a year.
• Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning emergencies.
  • Install a CO detector to alert you of the presence of the deadly, odorless, colorless gas. Check or change the battery when you change your clocks in the fall and spring.
  • Learn the symptoms of CO poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.

Get your vehicle ready for cold weather use before winter arrives.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Get your vehicle ready for cold weather use before winter arrives.

• Service the radiator and maintain antifreeze level.
• Check your tires’ tread or, if necessary, replace tires with all-weather or snow tires.
• Keep the gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
• Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer.
• Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded. The kit should include:
  • Cell phone, portable charger, and extra batteries;
  • Items to stay warm, such as extra hats, coats, mittens, blankets, or sleeping bags;
  • Food and water;
  • Booster cables, flares, tire pump, and a bag of sand or cat litter (for traction);
  • Compass and maps;
  • Flashlight, battery-powered radio, and extra batteries;
  • First-aid kit; and
  • Plastic bags (for sanitation).

Prepare for Emergencies

Be prepared for weather-related emergencies, including power outages.

• Stock food that needs no cooking or refrigeration and water stored in clean containers.
• Ensure that your cell phone is fully charged.
• When planning travel, be aware of current and forecast weather conditions.
• Keep an up-to-date emergency kit, including:
  • Battery-operated devices, such as a flashlight, a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio, and lamps;
  • Extra batteries;
  • First-aid kit and extra medicine;
  • Baby items; and
  • Cat litter or sand for icy walkways.
• Protect your family from carbon monoxide (CO).
  • Keep grills, camp stoves, and generators out of the house, basement and garage.
  • Locate generators at least 20 feet from the house.
  • Leave your home immediately if the CO detector sounds, and call 911.

Wear appropriate outdoor clothing: layers of light, warm clothing; windproof coat, mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots.

Take Precautions Outdoors

Outdoor activities can expose you to several safety hazards, but you can take these steps to prepare for them:

• Wear appropriate outdoor clothing: wear a tightly woven, preferably wind-resistant coat or jacket; inner layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots.
• Sprinkle cat litter or sand on icy patches.
• Learn safety precautions to follow when outdoors.
  • Work slowly when doing outside chores.
  • Take a buddy and an emergency kit when you are participating in outdoor recreation.
  • Carry a cell phone.

Do This When You Plan to Travel

When planning travel, be aware of current and forecast weather conditions.

• Avoid traveling when the National Weather Service has issued advisories.
• If you must travel, inform a friend or relative of your proposed route and expected time of arrival.
• Follow these safety rules if you become stranded in your vehicle.
  • Make your vehicle visible to rescuers. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna, raise the hood (if it is not snowing), and turn on the inside overhead lights (when your engine is running).
  • Move anything you need from the trunk into the passenger area. Stay with your vehicle unless safety is no more than 100 yards away.
  • Keep your body warm. Wrap your entire body, including your head, in extra clothing, blankets, or newspapers. Huddle with other people if you can.
  • Stay awake and stay moving. You will be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems. As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to improve circulation and stay warmer.
  • Run the motor (and heater) for about 10 minutes per hour, opening one window slightly to let in air. Make sure that snow is not blocking the exhaust pipe—this will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Be ready to check on family and neighbors who are especially at risk from cold weather hazards: young children, older adults, and the chronically ill.

If you have pets, bring them inside. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate, warm shelter and unfrozen water to drink.

No one can stop the onset of winter. However, if you follow these suggestions, you will be ready for it when it comes.

SERVPRO ERP, the Bridge to Your Business Continuity Plan

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers all commercial, educational, and governmental buildings a free Emergency Readiness Plan.

SERVPRO offers all commercial, educational, and governmental buildings a free Emergency Readiness Plan, which includes a walkthrough of the building and a report in both hard and digital copies.  Which can be accessed on any mobile device, anywhere and anytime.  70% of businesses go out of business after a major disaster to the physical business, and of the 30% that make it through the disaster only half have some kind of plan in place.  And that 50% is who this article is directed at.

When I sit down and chat with businesses, nursing homes, schools, city governments, or hospitals that all have some sort of plan in place they don’t initially see the value in having SERVPRO put together an ERP for them.  That’s when I ask about their plan, and usually get the same types of answers: “Our employees will work remotely.” “Our residents and staff will be moved to another facility.” “Why reinvent the wheel?" And more answers along the same lines. All having to do with continuing work.

That’s when I ask the question, well how do you plan on stabilizing the building once the disaster is under control?  How do you plan on securing the premises and contents of the building?  What if you as the owner or decision maker aren’t available, will the employees know how to contact the next person in line, or your insurance agent.  Do they even know where the binder with the master plan is kept, and if you are at the scene, will you be able to get to it.  That’s why it’s nice to have an app on your phone that you can access with ease. 

If a company already has a continuity plan in place, the SERVPRO ERP is a great bridge to get your organization stable and into the plan you have in place for situations that stop you from working as normal.  The faster a damaged building can be secured and mitigation can be put in place, the more of the building that can be saved and the faster the reconstruction can begin.  If your business does not already have a plan in place, the ERP is a great base to build your plan from. 

When It Rains, It Pours.

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

A property loss to your home is a stressful event, and it can seem like the end of the world.

It has been raining for three days straight and you feel like you should have webbed toes by now.  By the end of the third day, you come home from a long day at work and all you want to do is relax in your newly finished basement.  That’s when you walk down the stairs and step on the carpet.  You feel a squish between your toes. It's not that normal warm and fuzzy feeling, but rather that cold and wet feeling.  The saturation of water outside from the rain found a way into your basement, soaking your drywall and carpet.  You ask yourself, ugh, what to do now?

You have a few options:

1. Try to run fans and dehumidifiers and try to manage the water yourself. Saves money up front, but could lead to major problems later in the year with potential mold issues or degrading of the building materials.
2. You could bring a contractor into the project. Contractors do fabulous work, however, they may tend to demo more of the area than is needed, as water restoration work is not their area of expertise. 
3. Call a Mitigation company like SERVPRO to evaluate the loss. Once mitigation begins, materials that can be saved are salvaged and dried.  Portions that cannot be salvaged are removed, and instead of replacing whole sheets of drywall, you have a cost savings of only replacing what was damaged. 

A property loss to your home is a stressful event, and it can seem like the end of the world.  SERVPRO understands these feelings and is able to mobilize quickly to start mitigation work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  The faster stabilization work begins on the loss, the likelihood of saving materials is increased.

4 FAQs on Flammable Gas Safety

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Propane, hydrogen, butane, ethylene, and other flammable, compressed gases present hazards without the right precautions.

Propane, hydrogen, butane, ethylene, and other flammable, compressed gases present hazards without the right precautions. While fire safety maintenance will help you avoid trouble, you should also understand how to handle and store gas cylinders. Here’s what to know to keep your facility safe.

Common Questions About Flammable Gases

Can I store containers outdoors?

Yes, as long as the manufacturer's instructions permit outdoor storage. Closely follow the guidelines on all cylinder labels. If a label is missing or damaged, you may need to call the manufacturer.

Cylinders stored outdoors must remain upright on compacted, level surfaces. These should be far away from drainage areas, manholes, or other openings. Use an open-sided enclosure with a weatherproof roof to protect the cylinders from sunlight, snow, and other elements.

What about indoor storage?

Fire safety maintenance. Indoor storage is also possible as long as you follow all ventilation guidelines outlined by the manufacturers. Store the gases in a separate building that has noncombustible structural components that resist fire for at least 120 minutes. The area should also have lightweight roofing and explosion vents.

Keep gases on the ground floor and place electrical wiring outside of the building to further limit the chances of fires and explosions.

What are the best materials for securing the cylinders?

Unrestrained cylinders could roll away or fall, so you must keep them secure. Use specialized chains, straps, and bungee cords. Refer to the label or manufacturer’s instructions for information on how to secure the units.

How should I handle the cylinders?

Inspect all items before handling. Do not handle any cylinder that has dents, severe corrosion, or other visible signs of damage. Avoid contact if you notice grease, oil, solvent, or dirt, which could cause explosions.

Open cylinder valves only with the manufacturer-provided key, and ensure you are working away from all heat sources. You must also have fire safety equipment within reach and follow all other manufacturer’s guidelines, such as opening specific valves if you’re working with an irritating gas

Fire Damage Restoration Process

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution.

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call the SERVPRO Customer Care Center, which is staffed 24 hours a day. Our specialist will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch the nearest SERVPRO Franchise Professional with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO Franchise Professional can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

The SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

They will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Not So Pleasant Home Away from Home

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

What do you do? You are far from home, and don’t really know the area.

For most people that are fortunate enough to own a cabin up north, or a second vacation home, the thought of getting away is filled with thoughts of unplugging, relaxing and family time.  Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case for one of our recent clients.  When they arrived at their second property to enjoy a few days of quiet, they opened a door to a home full of water damage and mold.

What do you do?  You are far from home, and don’t really know the area.  Luckily for these clients we had been in the area a few months prior, and their neighbor we worked for gave our number to them.  We were able to coordinate with their insurance adjuster, and work out the cause of the damage and scope of the project.  It was discovered after we brought in a local HVAC provider that the heating core on the furnace had cracked, causing the temperature inside the house to drop, and allowed the water line to freeze and burst. 

Before we could stabilize the environment in the home, we needed to get heat back into it.  That is where we helped the client coordinate with the HVAC company to bring in and install a new furnace.  Once in, we were able to stabilize the climate and coordinate with a mold testing vendor to determine the appropriate course of action to mitigate the mold.  Once the area was properly cleaned, including cleaning the duct system, and damaged areas removed a contractor was able to come in and start the rebuild.

SERVPRO is Here to Help During This Time of Need

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business.

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of corona virus, 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 corona virus. 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 corona virus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: SERVPRO of Stillwater, Oakdale, & Mahtomedi

Severe Weather Season Is Almost Here

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

A company like SERVPRO can be called into the disaster to start securing the homes in businesses in the area.

You are resting peacefully, when you are abruptly awoken by the storm sirens going off.  You rush your family down to the basement to hunker down as the storm hits.  Wind, rain, hail and lightning strikes, damaging window and roofs, starting fires.  In the light of day you emerge with your family safe, but your home is damaged.  Your roof is partially damaged and missing, the hail and blowing debris has smashed in windows.  What do you do next?  Call your insurance company, but knowing that a wide area of local community has been hit, it may take time for an adjuster to get to your home.  How do you secure your home and processions from further damage?  Call in a mitigation company.

A company like SERVPRO of The Saint Croix Valley can be called into the disaster to start securing the homes and businesses in the area.  What does that mean?  Tarping and sealing that open roof, and boarding the broken windows.  Why, because the first step is to stabilize the structure.  The faster a building can be secured, and the environment inside that building can be stabilized the sooner mitigation can start.  The sooner that mitigation is started, the more of the structure and personal procession can be saved.  Once the mitigation is completed, the sooner reconstruction can start and the faster you can get back to living your life. 

Follow These Tips to Prevent Spring Thaw Flooding

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Spring is notorious for its unpredictable weather. The combination of heavy rains and rapid snow thaw can result in severe home flooding. Here are vital tips to prepare your home for spring thaw and prevent water damage:

• Remove snow around your house with a shovel so that thawed snow will drain away from your home. Also, remove obstructions or debris that could prevent water from being carried away from your house.
• Check your home’s drainage. Ensure that flood drains outside your house are not obstructed by debris. Check that the floor drains in your home are unobstructed as well. Roof drains should be open and flow freely.
• Maintain gutters and downspouts. Backed up gutters and downspouts are likely to cause overflows and flooding. Remove debris, ice, and snow from gutters and downspouts so water can freely move away from your home.
• Have your roof inspected to ensure that it is prepared for storms and to keep water out of your house.
• Install water alarm and flood sensors if your home is prone to flooding. These devices are designed to send an alert when they detect unwanted water in the home.
• Elevate items in the basement. Relocate sensitive items, such as documents or electronics to the upper levels of your home. If you can’t move items from the basement, move them off the ground and onto shelves or pallets.
• Install a sump pump in the basement. Sump pumps protect your basement from flooding by removing excess water around your home’s foundation, transporting it safely outside. If you already have a sump pump, make sure it is clean and the intake valve is clear. Test the sump pump to ensure it’s in proper condition.
• Purchase flood insurance ahead of time. Most homeowners’ policies do not include flood damage so it’s important to purchase this protection separately.

Oh Boy, My Pipes Froze This Winter

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Don't Wait For Spring Surprises.

You’ve made it to the end of another winter of cold long nights.  You didn’t have to call out SERVPRO because you took care of the snow on your roof and stopped the ice dam build up.  You kept the heat in the house above 55 degrees all winter and turned off your water when you went on that tropical vacation in January.

It’s time to start the clean up the spring and summer seasons.  You hook up your hose to your pressure washer to clean the winter grime off your gutters and eaves.  Pull the trigger on the pressure washer and, nothing happens.  That’s when you realize that you don’t have any water pressure, but where is the water going. 

You turn off the outside facet and run downstairs, to find that water has been running into you finished man cave basement.  The one thing you didn’t check was the pipe running to that outside facet, and you may have forgotten to open the facet to run the rest of the water out of it when you shut the source off.  It’s pretty common and we aren’t surprised that it happened, we get quite a few calls at SERVPRO in the spring in early summer about this exact same thing. 

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: SERVPRO of Stillwater, Oakdale, & Mahtomedi

Soon It Will Be the Melting Season

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Soon Seasons Will Change

Though it may not feel like it right now, soon seasons will change and we are reminded of the approach of spring, and with that, winter run off.  What have you done to prepare your home for the winter melt?  If you remember a few years ago in the Saint Croix Valley region, the spring brought rivers running over their banks, parking lots flooding, businesses, schools and home basements filling with water.  Now with that year’s crazy weather, there wasn’t much you could do to combat the flooding.  On a more manageable year like the winter we’ve had, there are a few things you can do. 

First, way back in the fall you should have clear your gutters on the roof out one more time, once the leaves were off the trees.  This allows for the roof snow to melt off and drain properly, avoiding water running over the sides and pooling next to your house’s foundation.  Throughout the winter it’s a good idea to rake the snow off your roof as well, this will help avoid ice dams on your roof.  This will also help with the flow of water once the roof snow starts to melt.

Around the foundation of your house, you will want to shovel the snow away and make sure that melting snow flows away from your home.  If you do all of this, and mother nature still decides to not play nice, SERVPRO of The Saint Croix Valley will be here to help, make it like it never even happened. 

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: SERVPRO of Stillwater, Oakdale, & Mahtomedi

3 Top Causes of Winter Water Damage

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Residential Homes Are Especially Vulnerable to Water Damage

Winter brings along with its chilling temps a host of water damage possibilities. Residential homes are especially vulnerable to water damage during the winter season. Three main types of winter water damage are common when the weather is below freezing. Burst pipes are one of the top sources of water damage that can be prevented. Roof leaks are an enormous burden, which, again, with proper attention, can be stopped before transforming into an expensive repair. Outdoor water sources can also be a likely source of winter water damage when left unattended.

Burst Pipes Are Commonplace

Pipes, whether plastic or metal, are notorious for bursting in subfreezing temps. Contrary to popular assumption, pipes rarely burst due to expanding ice contained within them. Rather, pipes break due to the buildup of water pressure between a sink’s faucet and an ice blockage. No matter how sturdy a pipe may be, it’s no match for expanding water. The pipe will rupture.

Typically, the pipes that are especially prone to breakage are uninsulated ones that are located along the exterior walls and water pipes that run along unheated areas of a home, like the attic, basement, garage, crawl space or underneath a kitchen sink.

Insulation is the number one protection against a burst pipe. Prior to winter, inspect all areas of your home that contain unheated water supply lines. Pipe sleeves can easily be purchased and fitted to the pipes in the garage, under the sink and beneath the bathroom cabinets. If pipe sleeves are unavailable, experts recommend using a quarter-inch of newspaper to surround the pipes, which offers an equally effective solution against the damage caused by sustained freezing temperatures.

Maintain a cozy indoor temperature to prevent frozen pipes. Especially when you are away, run the heat continuously at no less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Experts also suggest maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the home. (This is costlier than turning down the heat at night, but it may prevent an even more expensive broken pipe fix.) Another tried and true method to prevent a split in your water pipe is to let the faucet trickle small amounts of water. Dripping even the tiniest volume of water during subfreezing temperatures allows the water to run through the pipe without freezing. Unheated compartments of a home can also benefit from warm air. A winter weather defense strategy like this can be achieved by leaving open the kitchen cupboards and bathroom cabinets to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. Lastly, keep garage doors closed if water lines run through them.

When water pipes are frozen, they can be thawed. Apply a towel soaked in hot water around the frozen pipes to gently thaw the freeze. An electrical heating pad will do the trick, just as well. Also, keep the faucet running, which allows the flowing water to gradually melt the ice.

Prevent Gutter Blocks to Protect Your Roof

Gutters are invaluable in directing running water away from your home. When gutters freeze, however, or are blocked by ice, they can end up being rather destructive. A home’s gutter system can get weighed down by ice buildups. When the snow along the roof melts from heat that escapes from inside the home and trickles into the gutter, it pools and freezes into what is known as an ice dam. Snow that melts from the home’s internal heat is a key indication that there is a lack of proper insulation.

Ice dams along the gutter put unnecessary stresses on a roof. Water can infiltrate underneath the roof shingles, lifting them up and causing roof damage. Roof leaks are the result. Once a leak happens, you may find unsightly water marks along your home’s ceilings or drips that cascade into your home’s interior—both causes for concern.

When you detect a faulty shingle, take immediate action to replace it, especially prior to the winter season. It’s more cost effective to replace worn shingles as you find them, rather than replacing an entire roof.

Observing your home’s gutters and grading during dry or rainy weather and before winter helps to ensure your roof is properly prepped for winter.

Outside Water Sources Can Spell Disaster

When the first snowflakes fall, it’s far easier to enjoy its splendor than it is to remember what’s left on the ground underneath the snow. Outside water sources can be irksome when subject to subfreezing weather.

Be sure to remove all outdoor hoses from the yard. Drain them and store the dry hoses inside. Plus, shut off valves that supply water to the outdoors. All hose bibs should be opened to allow any remaining water to drain. Experts suggest leaving the outside valve open so that any excess water has enough room to expand without breaking the pipes.

When a water pipe in your home’s plumbing system unexpectedly bursts, surges of water end up penetrating the surrounding areas at breakneck speeds. As a homeowner, you’re left with puddles of water and the likelihood of mold infestations to clean up. Or, perhaps a roof has finally given in during the dead of winter, resulting in drips of water that causes property ruin within minutes.

Water Damage Restoration

Despite all preventive measures, disasters tend to occur. When an emergency happens, contact a professional water damage restoration company, like SERVPRO. Specialists from companies like ours are well-equipped to drain all excess moisture from homes and businesses in substantially less time than a standard dehumidifier. It is crucial to remove standing water immediately, due to the growth of mold and bacteria that occurs within hours.

Water damage restoration technicians use advanced meters to detect the level of water damage. Air movers and other high-tech equipment are used to thoroughly dry out the affected areas.

Our specialists will quickly return your home to its pre-damaged condition.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: SERVPRO of Stillwater, Oakdale, & Mahtomedi

Ice Dam Prevention

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Stopping ice dams is simple, in principle.

Here’s how to prevent ice dams in 8 steps so you can enjoy a winter free of icicles and the damage they can do to your roof.

Dam Busters

Stopping ice dams is simple, in principle: Just keep the entire roof the same temperature as the eaves. You do that by increasing ventilation, adding insulation, and sealing off every possible air leak that might warm the underside of the roof, as shown in the illustration below. By taking care of these trouble spots, listed here in order of priority, you should enjoy a winter free of dams and use less energy to boot.

1. Ventilate Eaves and Ridge

A ridge vent paired with continuous soffit vents circulates cold air under the entire roof. Both ridge and soffit vents should have the same size openings and provide at least 1 square foot of opening for every 300 square feet of attic floor. Place baffles at the eaves to maintain a clear path for the airflow from the soffit vents.

2. Cap the Hatch

An unsealed attic hatch or whole-house fan is a massive opening for heat to escape. Cover them with weather-stripped caps made from foil-faced foam board held together with aluminum tape.

3. Exhaust to the Outside

Make sure that the ducts connected to the kitchen, bathroom, and dryer vents all lead outdoors through either the roof or walls, but never through the soffit.

4. Add Insulation

More insulation on the attic floor keeps the heat where it belongs. To find how much insulation your attic needs, check with your local building department.

5. Install Sealed Can Lights

Old-style recessed lights give off great plumes of heat and can't be insulated without creating a fire hazard. Replace them with sealed "IC" fixtures, which can be covered with insulation.

6. Flash Around Chimneys

Bridge the gap between chimney and house framing with L-shaped steel flashing held in place with unbroken beads of a fire-stop sealant. Using canned spray foam or insulation isn't fire safe.

7. Seal and Insulate Ducts

Spread fiber-reinforced mastic on the joints of HVAC ducts and exhaust ducts. Cover them entirely with R-5 or R-6 foil-faced fiberglass.

8. Caulk Penetrations

Seal around electrical cables and vent pipes with a fire-stop sealant. Also, look for any spots where light shines up from below or the insulation is stained black by the dirt from passing air.

WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF PROFESSIONAL CARPET CLEANING?

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Carpet cleaning wand over carpet.

There are several types of professional carpet cleaning out there, all of which are meant to get the dirt out of your carpet. They all do the same thing in the end, but not all types of carpet cleaning are equal. Some work better on different types of carpeting, and others perform well in high-traffic areas. The best type depends on your home.

Carpet Shampooing

Most people don’t shampoo their carpets anymore, but this is still a viable option. It works like you would expect as you put a cleaning solution into the carpet in the form of a wet foam. The problem with this method is that the foam can leave behind a residue, and you do have to remember to rinse out the carpet after you’ve applied the shampoo. This reduces the sticky feeling in your carpeting.

This method can feel like a lot of work for some people, since you have to apply not only the solution, but you need to rinse it out too. Then again, it is less expensive than the machinery you’ll need for a steam cleaning.

Dry Carpet Cleaning

There are solutions that you can buy at the store that will help you with dry carpet cleaning. You only need to shake these powder solutions above your carpeting. The solution will work to absorb the dirt in your carpeting, so after 15 minutes, you can just vacuum it up. If you’re looking for a quick sort of clean, this is the perfect method. 

This is also a great method if you have jute, coir, or seagrass flooring, which are prone to damage and shrinkage if they get wet. For these types of carpeting, dry carpet cleaning is the best option.

This is a convenient method because there’s very little drying time and it’s easy to do. You may not like the harsh chemicals used in these solutions either, and you shouldn’t try to use this on plush pile carpeting, which can trap the powder mixture.

Foam Cleaning

You have the ability to clean with foam too. Just like the powder, a cleaning solution is distributed evenly across the surface of the carpet, but then it is whipped into a foam. The foam is then worked into your carpeting with a rotating brush. Once the foam sits for a little while, it can be removed with a vacuum cleaner, and since there’s so much foam and very little water, this works for water-sensitive carpets.

You will need about an hour to wait until the carpeting is dry and ready to use again, which is faster than other options. You won’t necessarily be able to get the dirt that’s deeply embedded into the carpeting though.

Hot Water Extraction

You’ve probably heard of this type of carpet cleaning since it’s more commonly referred to as steam cleaning. This is the type that we offer from a truck mounted motor. Steam cleaning works as the name suggests: using steam. The carpet is first pre-conditioned with a chemical emulsifier that is meant to lift dirt and anything else that may be stuck in your carpet fibers. 

Heated water is then pressurized to become steam before it is injected into the carpet. After around 15 minutes, all of this is sucked up with a vacuum.

Steam cleaning works best for the removal of ingrained dirt and deep stains, and doesn’t leave any residue or odors in your carpeting. Especially if you have pets, this is the best method for getting smelly stains out. Your only problem might be the cost, and the fact that you have to wait a while for the carpeting to dry.

Conclusion

In terms of the best carpet cleaning option, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to get the most amount of dirt possible, hot water extraction may be best. If you have carpeting that doesn’t work well with water, foam cleaning or dry carpet cleaning is better. There’s also carpet shampooing as a cheaper yet more time-consuming option. Which method you use just depends on what method will work best for your carpets. 

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: SERVPRO of Stillwater, Oakdale, & Mahtomedi

We Had _________ Happen To Our Place of Business, What Now!

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Every business owner’s worst nightmare is something happening to the physical location of their company.

Every business owner’s worst nightmare is something happening to the physical location of their company.  The place where your inventory, records, or employees report for work each day.  In a digital age, the brick-and-mortar location is still an important element of many companies.  What happens when a sprinkler head breaks, or that bag of popcorn in the breakroom microwave catches on fire?  Most businesses need to be in their facilities to conduct business, what’s your plan to get back into your building after an accident.

70% of businesses that go through some sort of disaster do not reopen.  Of the 30% that do reopen, half had emergency readiness plans in place.  It is hard enough to reopen a business after a loss, have you improved your odds by having a plan in place.  If not, SERVPRO of the Saint Croix Valley can help put one in place.  Our complimentary program, compiles the emergency contacts, shut offs and service entrances throughout the building.  Along with any other information of value, to first responders or employees.  The information is kept both in a hard copy, as well as, a mobile app on key employees’ phones.  Faster response times are always critical in any emergency situation. 

For our commercial insurance partners, teaming with SERVPRO to provide this plan is a fantastic way to give additional value and protection to your clients.  Reach out today to schedule a time to put your plan into place.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 715-381-2266. Visit our site: SERVPRO of The Saint Croix Valley

Your Client Has A Property Lost – What Now? 1-4-8 Response Time

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Within 1 hour of receiving notice of loss your client will be contacted to determine scope of loss.

In last week’s article we discussed the potential cost benefits of using a remediation company, what that mean.  So, you have a client call in with a loss.  That’s when our 1-4-8 service guarantee kicks in.  Within 1 hour of receiving notice of loss your client will be contacted to determine scope of loss.  Within 4 hours of that notice, we will have boots on the ground to visual determine the scope and begin necessary work to mitigate further loss.  By the 8^th hour, we will have spoken with you and your client to provide an update on how the course of action will proceed.  Response time in any loss, be it fire, water, etc. is critical, when trying to salvage both building and personal materials.  That’s why we are faster to any size disaster.   

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 715-381-2266. Visit our site: SERVPRO of The Saint Croix Valley

Everything you need to know about frozen pipes.

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

If you live in an area of the country that gets cold winters, one of those things that can go wrong is a frozen pipe that bursts.

As a homeowner, you have a list of maintenance items and things that can go wrong in your home. If you live in an area of the country that gets cold winters, one of those things that can go wrong is a frozen pipe that bursts. Burst pipes can cause massive water damage in your home and become a very expensive mess to clean up. You need more information to keep your pipes from bursting.

What causes a water pipe to burst?

Of course, there is more than one reason that a water pipe in your home can burst. It's beneficial to be aware of the various causes of pipes bursting, including:

• Corrosion: If your pipes are made from metal, over the years, they begin to rust and weaken. This weakness can cause your pipe to burst.
• High water pressure: Your pipes can burst if the water pressure is too high. According to Energy.gov, your water pressure shouldn't exceed 60 pounds of pressure per square inch (PSI). 
• Tree roots: As the pipes wind through your yard to the house, tree roots may grow into them, and this causes the pipes to burst. 
• Shifting soil: If construction is going on around your home, it's possible for the soil to shift and your water pipes to burst. 
• Clogs: Excess toilet paper and hair can create clogs in your pipe, and if these clogs get large enough, it can cause the pipe to burst. 
• Freezing temperatures: When the temperatures dip low enough, the water in your pipes can freeze. As ice builds up in a single location, it applies pressure to the pipe, leaving it vulnerable to bursting. 

After learning the common cause of burst water pipes, you can take steps to avoid problems. You don't want the expense and aggravation of dealing with a burst pipe. 

At what temperatures do pipes freeze? 

Is it enough that the temperature outside is freezing for my pipes to freeze? No, not really.

You need to remember that both the ground and the material of the pipe need to freeze before the water inside it will freeze. You need a few days and possibly weeks of freezing weather before the water inside freezes. In order for the water inside your pipe to freeze overnight the outside temperature needs to reach 20 degrees Fahrenheit. While you can't do anything about freezing temperatures, there are things that you can do to protect your pipes.

How can you protect your pipes from freezing and bursting?

You don't want to deal with the mess and expense that come from a burst pipe, no matter the cause. Fortunately for burst pipes due to freezing, there are some steps you can take to prevent them from freezing and to prevent them from bursting if they've become frozen. Here are some tips to avoid frozen pipes, including:

Leave the water on at a drip: While moving water can freeze, it's much less likely that water in your pipes will freeze if it's moving. It's beneficial when you hear that your area is experiencing or expected to experience a deep freeze that you turn on each of your faucets to a drip. It doesn't need to be a heavy flow. A slow drip is enough, and it shouldn't affect your water bill too drastically. It's certainly cheaper than replacing pipes, and the cost of repairs due to water damage. 

• Keep your garage doors shut: If you have water pipes that wind their way through the garage, you want to keep the doors shut to keep the temperatures inside the garage warmer, and hopefully, above freezing. 
• Open cabinet doors; You need to open the cabinet doors below any sinks or other water sources in your home. By opening the cabinet doors, you allow the warmed air in your home to reach part of the pipes inside the home. This keeps the pipes warmers so that they don't freeze. 
• Maintain a constant temperature: Many people lower the temperature in their homes at night during the winter months to sleep more comfortably and to save money on utility bills. However, to protect your pipes, it's better to pay a little more on your utility bills and protect your pipes by not allowing your home to become too cool at night. 
• Add insulation: To keep your attic, basement and crawl spaces warmer during hard freezes, add insulation to these areas. These are places where pipes are apt to freeze and burst due to the colder temperatures in these areas.
• Remove hoses: If you have hoses attached to your home, remove and store them during the winter months. It's also a good idea to shut off the water running to the outdoor faucets while leaving them in an open position. The remaining water will flow out of the pipes.

If you've done all of this, and you still suspect that you have a frozen pipe, you can still keep the pipe from bursting. Follow these tips:

• Turn the faucet on to a drip: If you suspect that you have a frozen pipe, you need to turn it on to a drip. As you attempt to melt the ice blocking the pipe, running helps the ice to melt faster. However, you don't want to turn the faucet on full, because the pressure of the water behind the pipe might cause it to burst. 
• Apply heat to the blocked area: If you can locate the area of the pipe that has the frozen blockage, you can apply heat with a hairdryer, heating pad, a space heater or some other non-flammable source. This will melt the ice inside and allow the water to flow freely again. 
• Call a professional: When you can't find the frozen section or it's behind a wall or under the floor, it's time to call a professional. 

Among other things, cold weather can cause a water pipe in your home to burst. However, the outside temperatures must reach around 20 degrees Fahrenheit and below for this to happen. By following our tips, you can avoid frozen pipes and pipes bursting due to freezing temperatures. 

How to Enjoy a Fire Free Christmas

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Like a lot of people, you're probably not taking down your Christmas tree for a few months. So now's a good time to learn how to keep it from catching fire and burning your house down. Between 2013 and 2017, US fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires per year that started with Christmas trees, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Those fires caused an average of three deaths, 15 injuries and $10 million in direct property damage each year, according to the association. For anyone celebrating Christmas with a natural or artificial tree, here are some ways to keep it brightly lit while staying safe.

Keep trees away from heat to make sure a tree is far away from any heat source. This includes candles, radiators, stoves, fireplaces and open flames. Smokers should never light up near a Christmas tree.

Make sure you're using the right lights; A Christmas tree isn't complete without glittering lights. But always make sure the lights are labeled "UL" or "FM," meaning they've met current safety requirements. Tree lights should be examined for frayed wires and damaged plugs. While the more the merrier, it's important not to overload electrical outlets or run wires under carpets or rugs. When positioning the tree, try to put it close to an electrical outlet to minimize the use of extension cords.

If you're using an artificial metallic tree, only use remote spot or reflective lights, not electric lights. For candle fanatics, keep them somewhere else. Lighted candles should never be placed on trees. And before heading to bed or leaving the house, make sure you turn off those lights.

If you're using a natural Christmas tree, make sure it's a fresh one. Once it starts drying up and those needles start falling out, immediately dispose of the tree. Experts recommend that natural trees should be kept for no longer than two weeks.

For natural tree aficionados, it's important to cut "one inch from base of tree to allow water absorption" and always keep the water receptacle under the tree full.

Five Safety Tips for Deep Frying Turkey

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

You can get in a "hot mess" with turkey if not prepared.

Fried turkeys are delicious, but they come with a slew of safety issues. Thousands of fires as well as many deaths and injuries happen each year due to turkey fryer fires. Before you set up your turkey fryer this Thanksgiving, remember these safety tips.

Get the Tips

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. Find Flat Ground– The oil must be even and steady at all times to ensure safety. Place the fryer on a flat, level surface and carefully gauge the amount of oil needed.
3. 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.
4. Monitor the Temp– Use caution when touching the turkey fryer. The lid and handle can become very hot and could cause burns. Also be sure to keep track of the oil?s temperature as many fryers do not have their own thermostats.
5. Be Prepared– Have a fire extinguisher (multipurpose, dry-powder) ready at all times in the event that the oil ignites.

And if you follow all of these tips, and still have an overly well done turkey and garage, we are here to help make it, Like it never even happened.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 715-7057028. Visit our site: https://www.SERVPROstillwateroakdalemahtomedi.com/

Reduce Heat Loss and Lower Your Monthly Bills

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

You can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting.

1. Set Your Thermostat Back 7°-10°F for 8 Hours to Save Money

You can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting. 

To do this easily, buy a programmable thermostat. By lowering the temperature for 8 hours a day, you save approximately $83 dollars a year.  

Going on vacation? You can set it lower to 55 degrees (without worrying about your pipes freezing).

Turning the heating temperature down at night and then back up in the morning saves a significant amount of energy.

"Mathematically speaking, the amount of energy required to keep a house warm is equal to the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures multiplied by the time that this difference is maintained."

2. Properly Calibrate Your Thermostat

If your thermostat isn't properly calibrated, you could be overspending on energy. Your thermostat can lose its calibration if dirt gets inside or if it gets accidentally bumped. Have your thermostat checked and calibrated annually, or install a computerized thermostat for the best fuel and cost efficiency.

ABC Home and Commercial offer step by step instructions on how to calibrate your thermostat properly.

3. Replace an Older Furnace with a High Efficiency Furnace

According to Jill Murphy, senior product marketing manager, residential heating, Lennox Industries Inc., "Replacing an older furnace that is 60 percent efficient with one that is 98 percent efficient can save homeowners up to $11,469 over the life of the system."

Furnaces use either gas, oil or electricity for fuel. Efficiency is measured as an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency rating.

Modern furnaces can have ratings as high as 98.2% (which means only 1.8 % is exhaust).

If you are replacing an older furnace with a high-efficiency (90%+) furnace, you should see savings on your heating bills of 25% - 30%.

4. Inspect, Clean and Adjust Your Furnace’s Burners

Energy efficiency is gained or lost at your furnace’s burners. 

“Be sure to look for any type of rust or corrosion that may have accumulated on the burners due to a condensate leak that might have gone undetected at some point during the life of the furnace,” says Brian Vinsant, product support specialist, residential heating equipment, Rheem Mfg. Co. 

5. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans and Cut Your Heating Costs

Reverse your ceiling fans to force warm air downward, keeping your home more comfortable. This home maintenance task makes rooms with high ceilings more comfortable.

Switching to a clockwise rotation pushes warm air that has risen to the ceiling back down into the living space. This can cut your heating costs as much as 10 percent, according to Popular Mechanics.

6. Inspect and Boost Your Insulation 

Adequate insulation will help keep your home warm in the winter. And if your insulation is insufficient, your heating system will have to work overtime this winter.

By adding some insulation to your attic, walls, and crawlspace, you can save money on heating costs. Insulation is one of the best ways to save energy and reduce cost.

7. Check and Seal Your Ducts 

Studies show 10 to 30 percent of heated (or cooled) air in an average system escapes from ducts.

Ducts that leak air into an attic or crawl space can add hundreds of dollars a year to your heating and cooling bills.

The duct work that transports the heated air throughout your home will often become damaged with age. When this occurs, you are opening your indoor air up to microscopic air contaminants that can aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms and negatively affect your overall well-being.

These cracks, tears and other damage will also reduce the furnace’s performance. The best DIY approach is to use mastic sealant or metal tape to fix the damage and then insulate the ducts. 

8. Allow Sunlight to Enter Your Home

During winter, keep the draperies and shades on your south-facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home and closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.

9. Seal Air Leaks

Sealing air leaks can save up to 10% in heating bills.

Most leaks can be fixed with a simple caulking gun. 

Improve Indoor Air Quality

HVAC units get dirty quickly. When this dirt and debris isn’t cleaned from the unit, it is reintroduced into your home, lowering your indoor air quality.

10. Change Your Furnace Filter to Avoid Trouble

You may have changed it at the end of the heating season, or then again, you may have forgotten. A new filter costs so little, while a furnace costs so much, why risk damaging it? 

Replacing the filter (or cleaning a permanent filter) is easy and puts you well on your way to preparing your furnace for winter. Using old filters puts more stress on the compressor and can lead to mechanical failures over time.

• Filters and coils should be cleaned so the dirt inside doesn't circulate in your home. Clean or replace filters on furnaces once a month or as recommended.
• Dirty filters make your furnace work harder. At a minimum, you should replace a disposable filter every six months (winter and summer) or your manufacturer’s recommendation.
• Clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators as needed. Make sure they're not blocked by furniture, carpeting, or drapes. 

11. Vacuum 

Keep the area around your furnace and all areas free of dust. Use an ordinary vacuum to clean the room where your furnace works hard to keep you cozy.

Gently vacuum electrical connections to keep them dust-free, and keep the floor clean so "dust bunnies" are not stirred and lifted onto the furnace. 

Maintenance, Inspection and Action

12. Maintain Performance Record 

Write down the model numbers of all your products. It's good to have them listed in a file for easy access. Keep a regular log of furnace performance. This will help you identify problems as they occur, and provides you with an accurate method of tracking furnace efficiency.

13. Test Your Detectors Every 6 Months

You'll want to check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Buy a carbon monoxide (CO) detector - save yourself, possibly your family, and your pets by investing a few dollars in a carbon monoxide detector.

You can install it around 15 feet away from the furnace. Remember that carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, tasteless and invisible, making it extremely dangerous. 

14. Listen for Unusual Sounds or Pay Attention to Strange Smells 

• High-pitched squeal? It could be a slipped or frayed blower belt. Loud sounds can be an indication of a mechanical problem. Listen for banging, popping, rattling, and screeching noises. 
• Nose around. Sniff the furnace room. Smells like rotten eggs? It could be a gas leak. Musty, grimy smell? Check for any oil leaks. Metal or iron smells? It could be an indication of your furnace motor starting to have trouble.

15. Check the Electric Ignition or Pilot Light

If these are faulty it will reduce the heat getting in your home. A "flickering or yellow pilot light could be a sign of excess carbon monoxide in gas furnaces." 

16. Turn off Kitchen, Bath, and Other Exhaust Fans

Turn off kitchen, bath, and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after you are done cooking or bathing.

When replacing exhaust fans, consider installing high-efficiency, low-noise models.

17. Test Safety Features

Deliberately tripping and resetting safety controls ensures proper shut-off in the event of a real emergency. 

18. Clean Your Flue and Chimney

You may feel comfortable doing this by investing in a chimney cleaning kit (brushes and fiberglass handles). However, you may be better off hiring a chimney sweep if you are unsure of what to do (although it is not hard, and only a little messy).

Your furnace flue ventilates toxic gases, so it must be clean and free of obstructions such as squirrel and bird nests or heavy deposits of soot.  

19. Inspect and Lubricate all Moving Parts

A little light lubrication in all the right places can add years of service to your furnace.

20. Inspect the Electrical Connections and Systems

Loose connections can cause sparks or trip safety systems.

21. Make an Appointment Early in the Season

The last part of your work to prepare furnace for winter is to call your helpful HVAC service company for a season appointment.

Conclusion

While most of the do-it-yourself furnace maintenance tips will go a long way to ensure your unit is functioning the way it was designed, you should not overlook the importance of a professional tune up and preventive maintenance plan.

A well-trained and trusted HVAC technician has the knowledge to spot potential problems before they occur - something most homeowners cannot do, and can keep your furnace functioning at its peak performance.

3 Workplaces at an Increased Fire Risk

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Some workplaces contain materials and systems that make them more susceptible to fires.

Some workplaces contain materials and systems that make them more susceptible to fires. If you manage a commercial space that is at risk, you must have fire extinguishers and safety designs in place to prevent costly accidents. Understanding some of the potential dangers in your workplace will also help you stay safe. Here’s a guide to some of the spaces that are at an increased risk and how to minimize it.

Commercial Establishments That Are at Risk for Fires

1. Restaurants

Most restaurants use open flames and produce a lot of cooking grease and oils. This combination is a common cause of many residential and commercial fires. To avoid issues, always have fire extinguishers handy and ensure employees know how to operate them. You must also have your restaurant’s grease trap and hood cleaned (6 Steps to a Professional Kitchen Hood Cleaning) to avoid accumulation and promote ventilation. Staff should never leave open flames unattended.

1. Offices

fire extinguishers Paper documents, electronics, as well as overloaded power strips, outlets, and circuits leave offices at risk for fire. A damaged power cable or overheated strip could create a spark, so always inspect your wiring for damage and excess heat. If desks at your workplace have been relying on extension cords in the long term, consider having additional outlets installed. You should also have fire extinguishers placed throughout the office, as well as alarm protection systems (Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems Myths). A workplace safety plan should also be in place so employees know what to do in an emergency situation.

1. Industrial Plants

Several flammable chemicals are used in manufacturing and material treatment, which is why industrial plants are at increased fire risk. Combustible materials such as fuel need to be carefully monitored and stored in a well-ventilated room. Employees should be trained to handle chemicals and operate any machinery that involves open flames. Having a fire suppression system in place will ensure issues are quickly spotted and dealt with. If you manage a warehouse, have fire safety maintenance professionals routinely test your equipment to make sure it’s operational.

Should you have a fire and are in need of clean up services or just have questions about the process, call SERVPRO of The Saint Croix Valley at 715-381-2266. Our staff of professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency commercial and residential mitigation services.

Fire Prevention Tips

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

October brings us fire prevention week.

October brings us fire prevention week.  With that, we at SERVPRO, wanted to take a moment to remind you of a few things to keep an eye on to prevent fires this fall and into the winter. 

• Watch your cooking
  Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
• Give space heaters space
  Keep fixed and portable space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn. Turn off heaters when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Smoke outside
  Ask smokers to smoke outside. Have sturdy, deep ashtrays for smokers.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach
  Keep matches and lighters up high, out of the reach of children, preferably in a cabinet with a child lock.
• Inspect electrical cords
  Replace cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs, or have loose connections.
• Be careful when using candles
  Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn. Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Have a home fire escape plan
  Make a home fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year.
• Install smoke alarms
  Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. Interconnect smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Test smoke alarms
  Test smoke alarms at least once a month and replace batteries once a year or when the alarm “chirps” to tell you the battery is low. Replace any smoke alarm that is more than 10 years old.
• Install sprinklers
  If you are building or remodeling your home, install residential fire sprinklers. Sprinklers can contain and may even extinguish a fire in less time than it would take the fire department to arrive.

Candle Safety

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

There’s something about the flickering glow and scent of candles that keeps us buying more.

There’s something about the flickering glow and scent of candles that keeps us buying more.

Unfortunately, lit candle use is also the cause of many preventable home fires. FEMA estimates that there are more than 15,000 home candle fires every year, many resulting in injury or even death. More than half of these fires start because the candles are too close to combustible materials, which is something that can be easily preventable.

Here are a few candle safety tips to review before you light your next candle:

1. Burning candles should never be left unattended.

2. Keep candles away from anything flammable.

3. If your candle is in a candle holder, it should be sturdy enough to avoid being easily knocked over.

4. Candles should be placed where children and pets can’t reach them.

5. The National Candle Association recommends that candlewicks be trimmed to ¼ inch each time before burning. Long wicks can cause uneven burning and dripping.

6. Keep the pool of wax in the candle clear of debris such as wick trimmings.

7. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for candle use. Most candles should be burned for only a couple of hours at a time.

8. Extinguish candles with a candle snuffer rather than blowing them out, as hot wax can splatter.

Why SERVPRO Offers Post Construction Cleaning

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

The biggest mistake a janitorial service provider or a client can make is to assume post construction cleaning is like other cleaning.

The biggest mistake a janitorial service provider or a client can make is to assume post construction cleaning is like other cleaning. If you like surprises, you will love post construction cleaning. Post construction is a lot like remodeling, you never know what to expect until you get started. You have to be ready for every eventuality. So what makes post construction so unique?

We Don’t Have the Luxury of Time
When we clean after construction we go in after everyone else is done (translated, we clean up the other trades’ messes) and we have to make the building look like ‘new’, even if it isn’t. This is not as easy as it sounds for reasons we will discuss in a moment. The new tenant is expecting a clean, move in ready space and the building management company is looking at us to deliver. The challenge is that the janitorial service providers are the last trade in the building, which means the original schedule is meaningless and we are under the gun to meet the deadline. It’s not like when you are cleaning on a regular recurring schedule because you can ‘fix’ mistakes and take care of things you may have missed the next time you go to clean. Post construction cleaning does not have that flexibility.

We Are Operating on the Tenants’ Schedule
By the time we get started with our service the building management has leased the building to a tenant who has a time line and it cannot be moved. This is like the first point but it bears further attention. The client determines when we will clean whether it is convenient or not. To handle post construction cleaning well you have to be flexible and able to adapt to changes all on some other persons time table.

Uncommon Surfaces Are Normal
Normal day in and day out janitorial service is fairly straight forward and the areas we clean are not all that unusual (although there are those times). On a normal basis janitorial service providers are not tasked to wipe down and clean 20′ transoms or walls. We normally don’t clean inside cabinets once the tenant occupies the space. We don’t normally remove factory glued stickers from windows, appliances or fixtures. But all of these surfaces must be cleaned in post construction and it must look like new when you’re done. Post construction cleaning requires a broader knowledge of tools and techniques to be successful.

We Clean Substances Left By Construction That We Will Not Encounter During Daily Cleaning
When other trades are doing their work they will often leave behind ‘mystery substances’. Sometimes it is a glue or a sealant or… well, you get the idea. The problem is if it is on a wall or a floor or a window we are tasked to remove it even when we might not know what it is. To do well in post construction cleaning you have to have an understanding of what the other trades are using so that you can clean it up. You need to be prepared to address any stain or mark or ugly glob you find. The tools and knowledge required for this go well beyond your average cleaning.

Other Trades Are Continuing to Work While We Are Trying to Detail the Building
This is what the last guy in has to face. Everyone else has a deadline just like us but our challenge is doing our job while others continue to make messes and undo what we just did. It’s frustrating to go through a building only to get a call back to clean up a paint spill or sheet rock dust that wasn’t there yesterday. If you don’t learn to deal with it you won’t do well at post construction cleaning. It’s just the nature of what we do.

It’s National Preparedness Month: Make a plan

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Extreme weather and natural disasters can occur with little warning.

Extreme weather and natural disasters can occur with little warning. This year’s floods and wildfires are proof of that. Are you ready to leave your home at a moment’s notice? You can reduce your anxiety about these scary events by making sure you are prepared if and when they happen. September is National Preparedness Month and a good time to get your family, pets, and property ready. You can, for example:

• Organize your finances. When it comes to preparing for situations like weather emergencies, financial readiness is as important as a flashlight with fully charged batteries. Having your financial documents up-to-date, in one place, and portable can make a big difference at a tense time.
• Replace missing documents. If you’re missing important documents, now’s the time to replace them.
• Check your insurance. Find out if any of your home, health, or other insurance policies will pay for temporary shelter, replacement clothing, furniture, or other items if you are affected by extreme weather or a disaster.
• Prepare your home. From floods to fires, earthquakes, high winds and tornadoes, check out The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) How-To Series: Protect Your Home or Business. If you live where storms and flooding are likely, visit floodsmart.gov to learn about FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program.
• Plan for your pets. If you’re like millions of animal owners nationwide, your pet is an important member of your household. A little planning today can help ensure safety for your pets during an emergency.
• Sign up for alerts and warnings in your area. Public safety officials use timely and reliable systems to alert you and your family in the event of severe weather and disasters.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. 

Common Causes of Mold

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can pop up anywhere that meets its conditions.

Mold can grow just about anywhere but is most commonly found in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, cabinets, and near pipes or ducting areas. It only needs a few elements to grow and proliferate throughout your home, the key element being moisture.

Mold behind drywall may be one of the most common household problem areas as drywall, wood, and cotton are ideal food sources.

Ceiling mold is also highly common due to a lack of ventilation and accumulation of moisture.

If the temperature is right, there is a moisture source and enough oxygen, you can be sure mold will begin to grow and spread.

Here are 6 of the most common causes of mold in your home:

1. Persistent Humidity

If you live in an area where humidity is consistently high, you may have a problem with mold. This is only natural due to the high moisture content in the air.

2. Leaking Pipes in the Home

This is one of the most common causes of mold behind drywall and in under-sink cupboards.

3. A Leaking Roof

A roof which is partially damaged due to wear and tear or severe weather conditions can quickly lead to mold build-up in your home.

4. A Build-Up of Condensation

During the winter time, some homes may experience a build-up of condensation on cold surfaces due to the fluctuations in temperature.

5. A Damp Basement

Due to the fact that they are below ground level, it’s only natural that a basement is exposed to higher levels of moisture.

6. Home Flooding

Unfortunately, one of the realities you’ll face after you experience the drama of home flooding is mold growth.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: Stillwater, Oakdale & Mahtomedi

Top 4 Causes for Home Damage, According to Travelers Insurance

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

No one wants to imagine something going wrong with their house.

While no one wants to imagine something going wrong with their house, accidents happen. It’s important to be prepared for the worst. When a bad storm hits your town or a pipe bursts in your basement, for example, it can create severe and costly property damage.

Home insurance is critical to protecting your home when damage strikes; it’ll help cover the expenses when you need to fix or replace something. While claims may be unpredictable, there are a few things you can do around your house to help prevent these common causes of property damage in the first place.

1. WIND

The Damage

The most common causes of property damage and home insurance claims are wind-related. Gusts of wind can uproot trees, damage roofs or even send outdoor furniture flying through windows.

What You Can Do

It’s important to limit the risk before the wind picks up. Look around your house and ask yourself ‘What could hit my home?’ Trees that are close to your home, furniture, etc can all be a cause of damage in high winds. Once you identify your risks, take precautions. Keeping trees pruned, strengthening structures and storing projectile objects indoors before a storm are great ways to get your home ready. This simple step could be the difference between a home insurance claim or just a little clean up once the storm passes.

2. NONWEATHER-RELATED WATER

Twenty percent of reported property damage comes from non-weather-related water.

The Damage

When you think of water damage, you likely think of weather and flooding as the most common source. However, it’s actually more common for damage to come from water that is already inside your home. Things like the dishwasher, washing machine, pipes and toilets can all cause leaks or flooding.

What You Can Do

Always know where the water sources are and perform routine inspections. For example, if your washing machine has a rubber hose, you should check it annually for cracks or wear. Also consider turning off your water when you will be away from home for a long periods of time.

3. HAIL

The Damage

Hail affects many different areas of the country, sometimes unexpectedly. Because it is often difficult to avoid hail striking, it is no surprise that it causes costly damage to cars and homes.

What You Can Do

If you have car, park it in a garage or under a roof if possible. Move items susceptible to hail damage, such as patio furniture, indoors or under a covered area.

While you can’t do much to protect your home or roof, you can try to strengthen it before hail strikes. Installing sturdy building materials that are more resistant to this type of hazard can reduce the damage.

4. WEATHER-RELATED WATER

The Damage

While it may not be as high on the list as non-weather-related water claims, storms can bring costly water claims. Heavy rain and flooding can do a number on your house, but there are a few things you can do to prevent damage.

What You Can Do

Make sure your roof is in good condition and that the shingles aren’t old and worn. Downspouts should direct water away from home. Keep your gutters properly cleaned and free of debris. Take note of any areas where water pools near your home after a heavy rain and level the ground or install drainage. During the winter months, remove snow accumulation from the roof after every storm and insulate pipes.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 715-381-2266. Visit our site: SERVPRO of Stillwater, Oakdale & Mahtomedi

We Answer The Phone

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

"Guess what! We answer the phone!"

Not a week goes by that we don’t get a call from a new client in desperate need of help.  At the end of the phone call our office staff always asks, so how did you hear about SERVPRO?  Most of the time we get an answer like my parents, neighbor, or a friend used your services in the past.  Or, we looked you up on line, or saw your social media page.  Not a month goes by that we don’t get a call, where the answer is, you are the only ones that answered my call.  When people call us, it’s usually not because something fun and exciting happens.  It’s usually on one of their worst days that they call us.  When you are having a bad day, you just want someone to respond and help.

Guess what!  We answer the phone!  When a franchise’s office is closed for the night, the weekend, or a holiday we are still on call and answering the phone.  SERVPRO headquarters has a 24 hour call center that routes all calls to the appropriate franchise.  Each franchise has a dedicated person answering the phone 24 hours a day, even in the middle of the night.  And finally techs are on a rotating on call schedule to make sure we can gets boots on the ground of any emergency when the calls come in. 

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 715-381-2266. Visit our site: SERVPRO of Stillwater, Oakdale, & Mahtomedi

Honey, We Have a Pool In the Basement

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

A little maintenance in and around your home might save you from a view like this.

With the recent storm, our office has had quite a few calls about standing water in homeowners’ basements.  Once the water has been mitigated, the next question we get asked is how to stop this from happening again.  For this question, we can give you some suggestions to think about.

You constantly keep your gutters cleaned out, and everything unplugged, but your gutters still overflow in a heavy rain.  Maybe the size of gutter you have is too small for the amount of rain that comes off your roof.  If you have a 3 or 4 inch gutter system, look at installing a 5-7 inch gutter to accommodate the volume of rain.  Is your problem standing water around your foundation?  You may need to address your landscaping, making sure that your yard slopes away from your foundation.  If your yard is properly sloped and you still have excess water sitting in your yard a French drain may help with this.  Finally if your problem is seepage into your basement from a high sitting water table, a tile drain system with sump pump may be the answer.  Typically you would want to discuss any of these solutions with an expert to have them properly installed. 

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: SERVPRO of Stillwater, Oakdale & Mahtomedi

Rain Rain Go Away

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

It’s a good idea to keep up with your home maintenance.

During the winter months we talk a lot about watching your roof and gutters for ice buildup, to help avoid ice dams.  Today we are going to talk about your house gutters again, but only with a non winter slant.  It may not be fall yet, but debris from trees still falls on your roof, the usual leaves or sticks on a winter day, or the really messy dried pine needles.  All of which can plug your gutters and cause rain run off to flow over the edge and collect around your foundation. 

We suggest that you periodically check your gutters and remove the buildup.  Especially when the weather man is predicting a heavy rain fall.  If the water over flows and lands around your foundation causing an excessive saturation, which can seep into your basement and cause damage.  The good news is, SERVPRO can help with the mitigation.  The bad news, homeowners insurance doesn’t always cover for seepage of this sort in most policies.  That’s why it’s a good idea to keep up with your home maintenance to avoid having to call us out.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028.

Mold In The Attic

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

If you’re like most of us, you rarely if ever venture into your home’s attic. Why would you? It’s not usually a place you care to venture and for the most part if you do it’s because something isn’t going well. With warmer temps here for the summer, we start to see an increase in jobs where homeowners have discovered mold damage in their attic. In this blog post, we’ll talk through what we typically see when homes have considerable amounts of attic mold and help you understand ways you can make sure it doesn’t happen to you.

Why mold grows in attics

Mold damage in your attic space occurs for the same reasons it occurs anywhere else in a dwelling. It’s a combination of a few things:

() the right temperature – mold spores like warmer, ambient temps. In fact, it likes about the same temp range as we do, between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit.

() food – no, not crumbs from discarded food a home service technicians might have left while doing some work up in your attic long ago. Mold likes anything that is high in cellulose. Unfortunately for homeowners, that’s pretty much anything in your attic, like plywood, wood joists, roof decking, etc.

() elevated moisture – many homeowners don’t realize that moisture is found in every surface of their home, as it should be. If those surfaces were completely devoid of moisture they wouldn’t perform their duties properly. But if a surface gets too much moisture in it, that’s the trigger mold needs to start growing. Another thing most homeowners don’t realize is that mold spores are present in most environments, and certainly in every home or other type of dwelling. It exists naturally and in low levels and is completely harmless to humans and pets. But with the right conditions, it can grow quickly and spread, causing wide spread damage to your home and potentially cause health effects for the home’s inhabitants.

As you can see from the list above, 2 of those things are normal. It’s the 3rd thing, elevated moisture that is not normal and creates the right environment for a mold problem. So now let’s talk through how moisture gets into attics and what you can do to make sure it doesn’t get into yours.

Causes of attic mold growth

When we are called to a home and discover mold in the attic, the culprits are usually pretty easy to spot. There are only so many ways moisture finds its way into an attic. Here’s what we usually see:

Venting directly into the attic

Many bathrooms are equipped with vents that take the warm, wet air released when a shower is running and remove it from the bathroom. Unfortunately, sometimes a misguided homeowner or shoddy handyman will simply install the vent fan such that the air is pushed into the attic where it has nowhere to escape. Bathroom fans should be vented to the outside of the house. If you have an older home that is equipped with one or multiple of these types of exhaust fans, it’s probably worth you taking a look in the attic space to make sure it’s vented properly.

A leaky roof

One culprit we find when inspecting an attic with mold is a leaky roof. Just one damaged or misplaced shingle can allow rain water to slowly seep into your attic. While most people picture a deluge of water coming through their ceiling, more often than not, a roof leak will just allow a slow amount of rain water to enter the attic, usually soaking the roof deck and eventually dripping down onto the attic floor and/or your exterior walls. We recommend that you (safely) inspect your roof’s exterior each spring and it’s also a good idea to just crawl up into your attic and peer at the interior decking of the roof. If you start to see staining, it’s a sign you have some moisture intrusion that needs to be addressed!

Improper Ventilation

Your attic needs to breathe. When we have extended periods of extremely cold weather like we had this past winter, warm air leaks from the interior of your home into the attic. This warm wet air will condensate on the roof deck and possibly ice over the ventilation.   One it warms up, this frost will thaw causing the roof deck to get wet. One sign to look for is roofing nails that are rusty.   We recommend working with an insulating contractor to make sure your attic vents well so you can avoid this problem.

With a few simple steps and things to be mindful of your attic can remain trouble free. If you suspect you have a problem feel free to give us a call. 651-705-7028

Breaking Through The Panic When You Need Water Damage Restoration

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

You were just relaxing at home when all of a sudden, there was a loud clunk and then a rushing sound as water began to pour into your basement. Maybe the rains came and didn’t stop for so long that the ground became saturated and water seeped into your living room. It could have been an unnoticed leak behind the walls, or even improperly sealed doors. But whatever the cause of unwanted moisture in your home, the result is the same – water damage that destroys property and creates a breeding ground for all sorts of nasty stuff.

When this happens, we feel panic because the water needs to be stopped and removed as quickly as possible to minimize the damage. The longer it sits around – or worse, continues to flow – the more significant the health hazards.

We know it’s an insane time, but we’re here to help guide you through the process, from important first steps to finding and engaging excellent water damage restoration services. Take a deep breath, center yourself, and then get started. The following steps will prepare you to safely address water damage in your home.

Stop or contain the flow of water if possible 

If the cause is a burst pipe, locate the main water valve and turn it off. This is also helpful if you have a leaky pipe that is merely dripping, but if it is in an accessible area, you can choose to catch the drops in a bucket rather than cut off water to the entire home. If you’ve had a flood, discover where most of the water is entering and try to divert the flow with strategically placed sandbags.

Turn off electricity 

When you have standing water, it can be a good safety precaution to cut power to the affected areas of the home. Before you step into any standing water, check to see if electricity is flowing through it by lightly grazing the water with the back of your hand. If you feel any tingling at all, evacuate the home and call for emergency services. You may also want to have an electrician come to check out the system before turning the power back on.

Call a reputable water damage restoration company 

The best companies are ones that are available 24/7 to assess the damage, quote a price for necessary services, and schedule the work to be done quickly. If there has been flooding in the area, the most reliable providers will get booked up fast, so get on their schedule as soon as possible. Also beware of companies that spring up overnight after natural disasters; they are likely not prepared or qualified to perform the work.

Deal with the standing water 

Bailing out standing water and overseeing the drying process is part of the package that your water damage restoration company will offer you. If you want to get started right away, you can begin removing standing water with a wet/dry vacuum or with buckets. However, flood waters are often contaminated with dangerous germs and the collected water needs to be dumped carefully so that it doesn’t flow back into your home. For these reasons, it may be best to wait for the professionals. If you do decide to begin the work yourself, be sure to wear protective gear.

Increase the ventilation

Good air flow is critical for drying out a home that has been flooded. If it’s not raining, open the windows to release moisture as it evaporates. If you still have power, run multiple fans as well as a dehumidifier. The more air you can move through the area, the faster it will dry. Don’t worry about this too much if you don’t have power – your water damage experts will have a plan for ventilation.

Remove wet possessions

It is likely that certain possessions will be destroyed by the water, especially things made of paper. If you have important files that got wet, each page should be laid out separately to dry. Though they will be warped and wrinkled, you may still be able to read the information. Books should be thrown away as water can remain trapped in the bindings and easily grow mold. 

Items made of metal dry quickly but may later rust around joints, and wooden items will have to be assessed after drying to determine if they are still structurally sound. Cloth that can be washed and dried, either on a line or in the dryer, should be safe to keep.

Relax and wait for help

The days or possibly weeks ahead will be stressful, especially if you have to vacate your home during repairs. Even if you can stay home, water damage restoration can be disruptive to your routine. Once you have done all you can to salvage as many possessions as possible, take some time to rest and recuperate. Take the family out for a comforting meal or snuggle together in one room to read. If you’ve had to leave home, enjoy the amenities offered by your hotel. Family bonding is one bright side to a disaster situation.

If you have experienced water damage, you know it is a serious hassle to manage. There will be time, money, and possessions lost in the effort to recover. Just try not to panic as that can freeze you in your tracks when time is of the essence. It’s also really important that you do engage a water damage restoration firm to make your home safe again. Dangerous mold grows easily in areas that have been flooded, and certain structures including support beams and drywall can become unsound. The whole situation stinks, but rest assured that there are qualified professionals in your area that can help make your house a home again. 

Why is it important to know where the water shut off is?

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

The Importance of Main House Water Shut Off Valves

As a homeowner, it's essential to know where the main water shut off valve is located. Water leaks from running toilets, burst pipes, broken water heaters, and even leaky sinks can cause significant damage in a short amount of time. In order to prevent costly damage, turn off the water supply as soon as a leak, flood, or spill occurs.

When Do I Need to Shut Off My Main Water Line?

Typically, you won't have to go directly to the main water line to fix a leak. Instead, your first attempt at stopping your water supply should be straight at the source. Most local supply lines have valves located directly behind or above the fixture and can be turned clockwise to shut off the water supply.

To locate water valves next to specific fixtures in your home, use these tips:

• For sinks, look under the cabinet on the supply lines leading to the faucet. There will likely be two shut-off valves to control both cold and hot water.
• For toilets, look close to the ground behind or beside the toilet, along the flexible metal tubing leading to the tank.
• For washing machines, look either directly above the washer or pull the machine away from the wall and check behind it.
• For water heaters, the water valve should be located just above the heater itself.

If the leaky fixture's valves aren't working or break off, turn off your main water line right away. Acting fast could save you plenty in damages and repair costs.

How Do I Find My Main House Water Shut Off Valve?

The main water line valve to a house is usually located in the basement or in the crawlspace and enclosed behind an access panel. However, there isn't a standard location specified in any home.

If you don't know where to look for your water shut off valve, use these tips:

• The valve will often be located on-grade, so you'll likely find it at floor-level in the basement or near the ground on the first floor.
• Take a look at the property inspection report provided when you purchased your home. This report should note the location of the valve.

Maintaining Your Water Valves

At SERVPRO of The Saint Croix Valley, we know how terrifying it can be to try shutting off your supply lines just to see the valves stick in place – or worse, snap off in your hands. That's why we recommend periodically checking your shut off valves to ensure they're in good working condition.

At least twice a year, test all the valves in your home. Simply turn them completely off and on again to ensure they aren't stuck in place or include faulty parts. That way, if an emergency ever does occur, you can have peace of mind that you'll be able to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.

If the unexpected happens and you aren’t able to shut off your water valves in time, call on the experts at SERVPRO of Central Washington County. Our water damage restoration services can help you get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. With the proper tools and knowledge, we'll work fast and efficiently to prevent additional water damage, cleanup costs, and overall stress.

Tis the Melting Season

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

With temperatures over 40 degrees this weekend, we are reminded of the approach of spring, and with that, winter run off.  What have you done to prepare your home for the winter melt?  If you remember last year in Minnesota, the spring brought rivers running over their banks, parking lots flooding, businesses, schools and home basements filling with water.  Now with last year’s crazy weather, there wasn’t much you could do to combat the flooding.  On a more manageable year like the winter we’ve had, there are a few things you can do. 

First, way back in the fall you should have cleared your gutters on the roof out one more time, once the leaves were off the trees.  This allows for the roof snow to melt off and drain properly, avoiding water running over the sides and pooling next to your house’s foundation.  Throughout the winter it’s a good idea to rake the snow off your roof as well, this will help avoid ice dams on your roof.  This will also help with the flow of water once the roof snow starts to melt.

Around the foundation of your house you will want to shovel the snow away and make sure that melting snow flows away from your home.  If you do all of this, and mother nature still decides to not play nice, SERVPRO of Central Washington County will be here to help, make it "Like it never even happened." 

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: SERVPRO of Central Washington County

Not So Pleasant Home Away From Home

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

For most people that are fortunate enough to own a cabin up north, or a second vacation home, the thought of getting away is filled with thoughts of unplugging, relaxing and family time.  Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case for one of our recent clients.  When they arrived at their second property to enjoy a few days of quiet, they opened a door to a home full of water damage and mold.

What do you do?  You are far from home, and don’t really know the area.  Luckily for these clients we had been in the area a few months prior, and their neighbor we worked for gave our number to them.  We were able to coordinate with their insurance adjuster, and work out the cause of the damage and scope of the project.  It was discovered after we brought in a local HVAC provider that the heating core on the furnace had cracked, causing the temperature inside the house to drop, and allowed the water line to freeze and burst. 

Before we could stabilize the environment in the home we needed to get heat back into it.  That is where we helped the client coordinate with the HVAC company to bring in and install a new furnace.  Once in, we were able to stabilize the climate and coordinate with a mold testing vendor to determine the appropriate course of action to mitigate the mold.  Once the area was properly cleaned, including cleaning the duct system, and damaged areas removed a contractor was able to come in and start the rebuild.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 715-381-2266. Visit our site: http://www.SERVPROcentralwashingtoncounty.com/ 

Weathering the storm: how your business can mitigate natural disasters

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

2017 was the seventh most active hurricane season in the historical record dating to 1851 and was the most active season since 2005.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting a lot of activity this hurricane season, with as many as 16 named storms. This follows a historic 2017 hurricane season, which precipitated the most costly year on record for insurers, according to Swiss Re.

A savvy use of technology combined with equally savvy advanced planning can help companies prepare for the worst and expedite their recovery after a storm clears. Technology for storm preparation and recovery is steadily expanding in sophistication and utility, from drones that can navigate the interiors of flooded buildings to artificial intelligence-enabled applications that enhance modeling and speed claims processes.

Claims: The quicker, the better

Whether Fortune 500 firms or small businesses, companies share a common goal when it comes to recovery after a hurricane or other major natural disaster: They want to replace lost inventory, infrastructure, stores, offices and plants; ensure their employees are safe; and get back to normal operations as soon as possible.

Being able to file an advance claim — or, for that matter, help employees begin their own rebuilding process — hinges on how quickly and efficiently companies can gather the information and documentation needed in the chaotic aftermath of a major natural disaster.

In a recent Marsh survey, more than 80 percent of respondents indicated they would consider changing insurers or other advisers based on their ability to provide claims management innovations.

In a recent Marsh survey, more than 80 percent of respondents indicated they would consider changing insurers or other advisers based on their ability to provide claims management innovations.

Leveraging technology, from drones to social media, can be crucial to prioritizing company response actions, speeding up the claims process and getting the money needed to begin rebuilding, while also enabling employees to file their own claims for lost or damaged cars and homes.

Visual intelligence

Visual intelligence made a big difference in accelerating organizations’ recovery after hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria last year. In Houston, one hospital, flooded in the aftermath of Harvey, was able to use drones to capture evidence of the damage the water had wrought, with footage of the waterline along the complex.

In the Florida Keys, a retailer gathered critical information on the condition of its stores by leveraging imagery acquired via fixed-wing aircraft with sensitive imaging technology to document hurricane damage to all of its stores.

The flyovers helped the retailer take stock of the damage at each location and focus its recovery efforts on swiftly reopening undamaged stores while simultaneously directing restoration teams to the one location where Irma had blown the roof off.

The value of drones

Drones, aerial intelligence surveillance reconnaissance (hovering drones), fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and satellites can gather crucial information from devastated areas far faster than people on the ground. Drones also can save employees or adjusters from having to enter still-hazardous areas and scramble up on rickety roofs and other structures to check damage.

Deploying directly over the top of facilities sometimes can be a cause for concern to risk managers, but 360-degree panoramas developed through the clever processing of drone footage can offer detailed intelligence from a safe distance at the site perimeter.

3D imagery, in turn, provides a far fuller picture of damage than traditional photographic images, while a plane or drone equipped with thermal technology can spot flooding and roof damage at night or when it otherwise might be hard to see.

A plane or drone equipped with thermal technology can spot flooding and roof damage at night or when it otherwise might be hard to see.

And thanks to advances in battery power and operator navigation technology, drones are starting to be used to inspect building interiors. In a recent case in the United Kingdom, a drone was used to inspect the fire-ravaged interior of a commercial building full of high-value machinery, safely performing what otherwise would have been a potentially risky job for an employee or contractor.

Don’t forget public information sources

While drones and other aerial technologies are exciting, companies also can glean crucial intelligence about the condition of their facilities through careful monitoring of public sources of information, such as Twitter, Facebook, other online platforms, and even closed-circuit television cameras.

All of these techniques can help businesses resolve claims, recover from storms and return to normal operations more quickly.

For example, a retailer with a $24 million store loss may be able to get an advance payment of $10 million on undisputed costs if it can show its insurer through video or photographic evidence that a return to work is impossible or that a location is a complete loss.

Is it worth having your own capacity?

As companies consider using visual intelligence technology to gather critical storm damage information, they’ll need to decide whether to hire an outside vendor or build up in-house capabilities. Some companies, especially in the energy sector, have invested heavily in building out their own visual intelligence capabilities.

Hiring seasoned drone pilots or training employees to handle this technology, however, can be an expensive process. Investing in external contractors might be the better course of action so that you can draw on precisely the right technologies and analysis.

If you work with an outside vendor, make sure its personnel are fully versed in regulations and the practical operational requirements for deploying any type of aerial technology in disaster situations, when emergency responders may be controlling airspace. You also may want to consider a vendor’s overseas reach, in case Caribbean territories are once again in the spotlight in 2018.

Working at street level

This survey technology need not be airborne. If streets are passable, then Lidar, a laser scanner system, can be mounted on the roof of a van and instantaneously can take millions of measurements as it drives through a neighborhood to create 3D models. Put on a boat, the same device — coupled with an optical camera — could provide crucial documentation of a flooded neighborhood.

If streets are passable, then Lidar can be mounted on the roof of a van and instantaneously can take millions of measurements as it drives through a neighborhood.

Insurers more often are on the scene with mobile claims units that travel into storm-damaged areas to help homeowners and others file their claims, but they’re using technology in other ways. As some insurers allow customers to process claims via text messaging, email and mobile apps, images of flooded or otherwise damaged homes and cars can give employees stranded in shelters or hotels the ability to start the claims process before they eventually return home.

Similarly, receipts and other documentation can be transmitted digitally. Behind the scenes, sophisticated software and artificial intelligence can help insurers process the incoming data and build the claim file.

Staying in touch with employees

Meanwhile, employers will want to establish a way to communicate vital information to employees after a storm hits and keep tabs on their well-being. Because major hurricanes severely can disrupt communications networks, you’ll want to establish at least three methods through which employees can get the information they need and report back to the company on their status.

One increasingly popular method is to hire a third-party mass notification vendor to handle such critical communications. In the event of a major storm or other emergency, the messaging service will reach out to employees by email, phone and text.

The messages also may ask employees to register whether they are OK. This can provide a quick snapshot on how employees are faring and how many will be able to return to work.

With hurricane season upon us, new technologies can help businesses and individuals better prioritize their efforts, more efficiently collect information in support of claims payments from insurers, and accelerate a return to normal operations.

Flooding vs. Water Damage

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Learn the differences, similarities and causes between the two and how to handle water removal and cleanup.

Flooding vs. Water Damage

Whether you’re dealing with water damage or flooding, both can cause big problems and usually require professionals to perform water cleanup. Depending on the size and scope of your situation, your home may require water removal, flood repair or further restoration. While flooding caused by natural disasters or severe weather may be inevitable, there are some preventative measures you can take in and around your house to help slow the flow of water and/or help minimize the damage. The same goes for water damage – if you identify areas around the home that are more prone to water damage than others, you can take action to help prevent or at least decrease the amount and severity of the damage.

Causes and Effects of Flooding and Water Damage

Flooding can happen as a result of both natural and manmade causes, and it can affect the inside and outside areas of your home and property. During a very rainy season, yards can become oversaturated and if there isn’t adequate drainage, or if you have slow-draining soil, flooding is usually inevitable. Preventative measures – such as enhancing your yard’s soil composition and adding plants with deep roots and a high tolerance for water – are a good way to make your yard less susceptible to flooding. These measures can also minimize the amount of flood cleanup if you do experience heavy storms.

 Leaky or faulty appliances, burst pipes and water damage that’s not repaired in a timely manner are all non-weather related causes of flooding. Low-lying areas of a home – such as a basement or the foundation – are often more prone to flooding since they are at or below ground level and may experience rising waters from surrounding bodies of water (lakes, rivers, streams) that can overflow during heavy periods of rain. Also, basements oftentimes have multiple pipes running both under the ground and through the ceilings, making them vulnerable to flooding.

Water damage is one of the results of flooding. Even after water removal, the remnants of flooding can appear in the form of discoloration on walls, damaged flooring and mold growth. Common causes include leaky appliances, plumbing issues and heavy periods of rain. Homeowners can help avoid water damage to their homes by having several annual inspections. These include roof inspections (to detect leaks and other areas that may be vulnerable to penetration) and appliance checkups (to make sure they are all running properly and to replace any faulty parts). If left untreated, you will probably end up having to contact professional water cleanup services, like SERVPRO of Central Washington County, to properly address and repair any damage incurred.

 Similarities and Differences

 Flooding and water damage are both caused by natural sources such as heavy periods of rain/natural disasters and man made sources like burst pipes and leaky or faulty appliances.

Depending on the level and severity, both situations will usually require help from professional water cleanup services and/or flood repair.

Flooding is usually an immediate occurrence that can happen in a matter of minutes or even seconds (think: a burst pipe or an overflowing toilet).

Many insurance companies consider water damage and flood damage two different types of claims. While water damage is typically covered under most homeowners insurance, it’s important to carefully read over your policy, as some insurers may only cover certain types of water damage.

How to Deal With Water Removal

 If you have flooding or water damage on your hands, you’ll probably need the help of professional water cleanup services like SERVPRO of Central Washington County. We can handle the initial assessment/inspection, water removal and drying/containment, and help prevent further water damage throughout the entire water cleanup process. If your home or property requires restoration, you may have to contact a contractor to help with water damage/flood repairs in order to completely restore your home back to its original state. You’ll also want to get in touch with your home insurance company to report the damage and see if it’s covered under your policy.

4 FAQ on Flammable Gas Safety

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Propane, hydrogen, butane, ethylene, and other flammable, compressed gases present hazards without the right precautions. While fire safety maintenance will help you avoid trouble, you should also understand how to handle and store gas cylinders. Here’s what to know to keep your facility safe.

Common Questions About Flammable Gases

Can I store containers outdoors?

Yes, as long as the manufacturer's instructions permit outdoor storage. Closely follow the guidelines on all cylinder labels. If a label is missing or damaged, you may need to call the manufacturer.

 Cylinders stored outdoors must remain upright on compacted, level surfaces. These should be far away from drainage areas, manholes, or other openings. Use an open-sided enclosure with a weatherproof roof to protect the cylinders from sunlight, snow, and other elements.

 What about indoor storage?

fire safety maintenanceIndoor storage is also possible as long as you follow all ventilation guidelines outlined by the manufacturers. Store the gases in a separate building that has noncombustible structural components that resist fire for at least 120 minutes. The area should also have lightweight roofing and explosion vents.

 Keep gases on the ground floor and place electrical wiring outside of the building to further limit the chances of fires and explosions.

What are the best materials for securing the cylinders?

Unrestrained cylinders could roll away or fall, so you must keep them secure. Use specialized chains, straps, and bungee cords. Refer to the label or manufacturer’s instructions for information on how to secure the units.

 How should I handle the cylinders?

Inspect all items before handling. Do not handle any cylinder that has dents, severe corrosion, or other visible signs of damage. Avoid contact if you notice grease, oil, solvent, or dirt, which could cause explosions.

Open cylinder valves only with the manufacturer-provided key, and ensure you are working away from all heat sources. You must also have fire safety equipment within reach and follow all other manufacturer’s guidelines, such as opening specific valves if you’re working with an irritating gas.

Fire Damage Restoration Process

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Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call the SERVPRO Customer Care Center, which is staffed 24 hours a day. Our specialist will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch the nearest SERVPRO Franchise Professional with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO Franchise Professional can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

The SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

They will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Why Fire Safety Training Matters for Your Company

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Even if your office is fully stocked with alarms, sprinklers, and extinguishers, these safety measures are less effective if your workforce doesn’t understand emergency procedures. By implementing routine fire drills and training from a professional, you’ll prepare all your employees to stay safe during an emergency. Here is more information about why fire safety maintenance is necessary.

How Should Your Employees Be Trained for Fire Safety?          

To contain small fires, such as microwave accidents, every employee should know how to use a fire extinguisher. A brief training demonstration could save your company from costly property damage and potential staff endangerment. For larger fires that can’t be eliminated with an extinguisher, everyone should know the quickest way to evacuate the building.

To prevent injuries, you must undergo fire drills, which will force your staff to act like an emergency is occurring in your building. Every employee should move quickly toward the nearest exit, helping those who may have limited mobility. By teaching your workforce to act calmly under pressure, you’ll minimize the chances of chaotic rushing that could lead to trampling.

Most importantly, having an evacuation plan is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and nearly all businesses should have regular fire drills as per the state of Wisconsin fire code. A professional will help you comply with the law.

4 Types of Fire Alarms for Your Business

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

You only want the best when it comes to choosing a fire detector for your commercial building. Fire alarm protection systems safeguard your property against smoke and fire threats, preventing injuries and damage. There are many types of alarms available on the market. To help you make an informed decision, here are some of the most popular choices and how they work.

Different Fire Alarm Protection Systems

Heat Detectors

Heat detectors respond when a fire raises the temperature of a room. These alarms are triggered once temperatures rise above 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Since they only function as a heat-sensitive unit, they're meant to supplement smoke alarms to improve fire detection. For the best response, have heat detectors installed in areas where fumes and smoke are likely to collect, such as rooms without windows.

Ionization Smoke Alarms

Fire alarm protection system Ionization smoke alarms are best at detecting abrupt fires. The ionization chambers inside these fire alarm protection systems contain traces of radioactive particles that trigger when smoke enters the unit. Since these alarms are more sensitive to smoke, they can create false positives when someone burns their food in a microwave, for example.

Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

Photoelectric alarms are useful for detecting smoldering fires that create a lot of smoke. The inner components contain light beams aimed toward sensors. When smoke particles enter the chamber, the light beam inside is refracted from the sensor, activating the alarm. It's recommended placing these fire protection systems in areas with low dust buildup, since dust particles are known to accidentally trigger them.

Dual-Sensor Smoke Alarms

When you combine the sensors from ionization and photoelectric fire detection systems, you get dual-sensor smoke alarms. These types of fire alarms protect your building from both smoldering and lightly flaming fires. Since most models are designed to activate when both sensors are triggered, you'll get less false alarms than with single-sensor fire alarms. However, dual-sensor units may respond slower, causing a delay in response if a fire occurs.

3 Workplaces at an Increased Fire Risk

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Some workplaces contain materials and systems that make them more susceptible to fires. If you manage a commercial space that is at risk, you must have fire extinguishers and safety designs in place to prevent costly accidents. Understanding some of the potential dangers in your workplace will also help you stay safe. Here’s a guide to some of the spaces that are at an increased risk and how to minimize it.

Commercial Establishments That Are at Risk for Fires

1. Restaurants

Most restaurants use open flames and produce a lot of cooking grease and oils. This combination is a common cause of many residential and commercial fires. To avoid issues, always have fire extinguishers handy and ensure employees know how to operate them. You must also have your restaurant’s grease trap and hood cleaned(6 Steps to a Professional Kitchen Hood Cleaning) to avoid accumulation and promote ventilation. Staff should never leave open flames unattended.

2. Offices

fire extinguishers Paper documents, electronics, as well as overloaded power strips, outlets, and circuits leave offices at risk for fire. A damaged power cable or overheated strip could create a spark, so always inspect your wiring for damage and excess heat. If desks at your workplace have been relying on extension cords in the long term, consider having additional outlets installed. You should also have fire extinguishers placed throughout the office, as well as alarm protection systems(Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems Myths). A workplace safety plan should also be in place so employees know what to do in an emergency situation.

3. Industrial Plants

Several flammable chemicals are used in manufacturing and material treatment, which is why industrial plants are at increased fire risk. Combustible materials such as fuel need to be carefully monitored and stored in a well-ventilated room. Employees should be trained to handle chemicals and operate any machinery that involves open flames. Having a fire suppression system in place will ensure issues are quickly spotted and dealt with. If you manage a warehouse, have fire safety maintenance professionals routinely test your equipment to make sure it’s operational.

Should you have a fire and are in need of clean up services or just have questions about the process, call SERVPRO of Central Washington County at 651-705-7028. Our staff of professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency commercial and residential mitigation services.

When It Rains, It Pours

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

It has been raining for three days straight and you feel like you should have webbed toes by now.  By the end of the third day you come home from a long day at work and all you want to do is relax in your newly finished basement.  That’s when you walk down the stairs and step on the carpet.  You feel a squish between your toes, not that normal warm and fuzzy feeling, but that cold, wet and I think I need my waders feeling.  The saturation of water outside from the rain found a way into your basement, soaking your drywall and carpet.  You ask yourself, ugh, what to do now?

You have a few options:

1. Try to run fans and dehumidifiers and try to manage the water yourself. Saves money up front, but could lead to major problems later in the year with potential mold issues or degrading of the building materials.
2. You could bring a contractor into the project. Contractors do fabulous work, however they may tend to demo more of the area then is needed, as water restoration work is not there area of expertise. 
3. Call a Mitigation company like SERVPRO of The Saint Croix Valley to evaluate the loss. Once mitigation begins, materials that can be saved are salvaged and dried.  Portions that cannot be salvaged are removed, and instead of replacing whole sheets of drywall you have a cost savings of only replacing what was damaged for example. 

A property loss to your home is a stressful event, and it can seem like the end of the world.  SERVPRO of Central Washington County understand these feelings and are able to mobilize quickly to start mitigation work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  The faster stabilization work begins on the lost, increases the ability of mitigation to save materials.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have.

Severe Weather Season Is Almost Here

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

You are resting peacefully, when you are abruptly awoken by the storm sirens going off.  You rush your family down to the basement to hunker down as the storm hits.  Wind, rain, hail and lightning strikes, damaging window and roofs, starting fires.  In the light of day you emerge with your family safe, but your home is damaged.  Your roof is partial damaged and missing, the hail and blowing debris has smashed in windows.  What do you do next?  Call your insurance company, but knowing that a wide area of local community has been hit, it may take time for an adjuster to get to you home.  How do you secure your home and possessions from further damage?  Call in a mitigation company.

A company like SERVPRO of Central Washington County can be called into the disaster to start securing the homes in businesses in the area.  What does that mean?  Tarping and sealing that open roof, and board the broken windows.  Why, because the first step is to stabilize the structure.  The faster a building can be secured, and the environment inside that building can be stabilize the sooner mitigation can start.  The sooner that mitigation is started, the more of the structure and personal procession can be saved.  Once the mitigation is completed, the sooner reconstruction can start and the faster you can get back to living your life. 

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028.  http://www.SERVPROcentralwashingtoncounty.com/

How Can Wind Mitigation Protect Your Home and Family During Severe Winds?

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

How Can Wind Mitigation Protect Your Home and Family During Severe Winds?

Wind is an unpredictable element that can threaten your home and safety. During periods of high wind, air currents can fluctuate and change directions without warning, placing pressure on all parts of a structure and potentially pulling it apart or lifting it from its foundation. When wind speeds climb, pieces of debris can also become dangerous — crashing into your home with significant force and potentially breaking through it and endangering your loved ones. But there are steps you can take to increase your safety with wind mitigation.

Protect Your Home from Wind Storm Damage

Traditional Homes

• Keep your home firmly anchored in high winds, have anchor bolts with heavy-gauge, square bolt washers installed to connect your floor to the foundation.
• Reinforce the rest of the frame by connecting wall and floor components with properly installed plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), and attach roof trusses or rafters to the walls with metal connectors.
• On existing homes, this can be done when replacing siding.

Manufactured Homes

• Manufactured homes are more prone to damage from high winds as a result of non-permanent foundations.
• Inspect all straps and tie-downs regularly for rust, weakness or wear, and have repairs made immediately.

Make Your Home Less Vulnerable to Wind Damage

Windows

• Install windows rated for the wind speeds in your region.
• For the best protection in hurricane-prone areas, install impact-resistant permanent shutters that meet applicable building code approved standards.

Doors

• To better resist wind pressure and flying debris, make sure your entry doors are solid wood or hollow metal.
• All entry doors should have three hinges and a dead bolt lock with at least a one-inch bolt throw length.
• Door framing should be securely anchored to the wall structure using fasteners that are at least three inches long.
• If you have double-entry doors, secure the inactive door with head and foot bolts that extend through the door header and into the subfloor.
• Patio doors should be made of impact-resistant safety glass.
• Shuttering doors offers extra protection.

Garage Doors

• Install doors rated for the wind speeds in your region.
• If building a new home in a hurricane-prone area, consider installing horizontally braced, single-wide garage doors instead of double-wide doors.
• For existing homes, check with your garage door manufacturer for availability of retrofit bracing kits.
• Be aware that your garage door panels, especially if double-wide, may require both horizontal and vertical bracing to ensure stability.
• You can also protect your garage door with a shutter or screen rated for wind pressure and debris impact.

Roofing

• Strong winds can cause shingles to peel off, especially if edge shingles are not well secured or the adhesive on their tabs has failed.
• A roofing professional can evaluate your roof, and if needed, additional roofing cement can be added under each tab to help keep the shingles attached during a high-wind event.
• The shingles should be attached to roof decking of solid 5/8' thick plywood.
• The roof decking should be attached to the roof framing using 8d ring shank nails, and a secondary water barrier created by installing self-adhering flashing tape over the joints in the roof deck.
• For greater resistance to wind uplift, apply a bead of construction adhesive along both sides of the intersection between the roof decking and the rafters or trusses; your roofing professional can provide you with information about additional safeguards.

Soffits

• To help anchor the soffits, the exposed siding under your roof rafters to your home, have a professional apply a bead of polyurethane sealant between the wall and the trim into which the soffit panels are inserted.
• You can also apply a dollop of caulk in the V-shaped hole where the joint between two soffit panels meets the trim.

Safe Rooms

• Designate a place in your home that will protect your family from injuries caused by broken windows and flying debris.
• The basement is often the best location for a safe room; otherwise, locate the room on the interior, ground floor of your home.
• An experienced contractor can equip your safe room with reinforced floors, walls and ceilings, regardless of whether you have a new or existing home.

Landscaping

• Avoid using gravel or rock landscaping materials, which can be hazardous when airborne. Shredded bark can be an attractive and less dangerous alternative.
• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To tune into these NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) broadcasts, you’ll need an NOAA Weather Radio Receiver. These are available at many retail outlets.

When preparing your home for seasonal winds, it's also important to review your insurance coverage.

7 Must-Have Items For Your Storm Emergency Kit

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7 Must-Have Items For Your Storm Emergency Kit

When it comes to hurricanes and tornadoes, you can't be too prepared. Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30, and while tornadoes can occur any time of the year, peak season is May and early June for the Southern Plains, early spring for the Gulf Coast, and June and July in the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest. No matter where you live, it's never too early to gather supplies and put together your storm emergency kit. Use these helpful hacks to create your own storm emergency kit with items you probably already have around your house.

1. The Basics: Of course, no hurricane emergency kit would be complete without first-aid supplies, personal medications, non-perishable food for a minimum of three-to-five days (including baby formula), clean water, toilet paper, soap, emergency blankets, matches, and a flashlight with extra batteries. These are also the first to fly off the shelves as soon as a hurricane watch is issued.
   
   Pro Tip: Make sure to include a manual can opener in your kit for your non-perishable food items.

2. Bleach: You should have at least a gallon of clean water per person per day for three-to-five days in your emergency kit. But if you're running low on clean drinking water and can't boil any, the CDC recommends that you use unscented household bleach as a method of water purification. Add one-eighth of a teaspoon of unscented bleach to a gallon of water, mix it well, and let it stand for at least 30 minutes before drinking.
   
   Pro Tip: Do not use bleach that is six months or older, and be sure to open windows or doors to get fresh air when using bleach.

3. Goggles, Work Gloves and Breathing Masks: If you have damage during a hurricane or tornado, this protective gear will come in handy during cleanup. It can help keep you from being contaminated by exposure to harmful materials like lead, asbestos, cement, or mold.

4. Trash Bags: There are several ways that trash bags can come in handy during a hurricane or tornado emergency. In addition to their obvious function, you can wear trash bags as rain ponchos, use them as temporary tarps, or to collect rainwater. And since they don't have an expiration date, you can stock up.

5. NOAA Weather Radio (NWR): A battery-powered All Hazards NOAA Radio is a must-have in a weather emergency. With over 1000 stations across the 50 states⁴, it provides 24/7 live updates from the National Weather Service on weather and emergency information. You can also get live updates from the NWR on the FEMA app, but only if you have cell service and a charged battery.
   
   Pro Tip: Don't wait until a storm emergency to buy a NWR receiver, because that's when stores sell out. If you can't get a NWR, a hand crank or battery-powered radio with extra batteries works too.

6. Hand Tools: You probably already have a screwdriver, wrench, and pliers in your home (if not, read 10 Things Every Handy Homeowner's Toolkit Should Have), so you'll want to keep them handy in your emergency kit. You may need a wrench or pliers for turning off utilities, and a screwdriver to remove storm shutters from your windows after a hurricane.
   
   Pro Tip: Familiarize yourself with your home's utilities and know how to access the water, gas, and power shut-off valves in advance.
7. Home Inventory:

Creating a list of your belongings is an extremely important step in emergency storm and claims preparedness. Take stock of everything in your home, so you have it documented before a hurricane or tornado is approaching. Having this record will make the claims process much easier if damage occurs.

Now that you know what should be in your emergency storm kit, you can get a head start on stocking yours with the non-perishables and tools you hope you won't need. It'll save you a hectic trip to the store and ensure you’re ready for the next storm that comes your way.

Flood and Storm Damage

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

While most business and homeowners know the destructive effects that flood damage causes, not everyone knows the right steps to take to mitigate the associated damage. These are incidents which need immediate professional intervention to learn what can restored and what has to be replaced. That is why it is vital for Saint Paul and Washington County residents to know how to act when faced with such incidents.

 Remember water carries along all sorts of debris, oils, and mud into a premise. When contaminated water comes into contact with metallic surfaces, oxidation occurs, and they start to rust. To prevent such eventualities, extracting the water and cleaning is necessary. Our SERVPRO team can in some cases use wet-vacuuming to remove the debris and water. Truck-mounted pumps and portable generators for a power source are readily available from our stocked Green Fleet.

 We may recommend a replacement if we notice that the water contaminated your porous materials. Where necessary, our team uses detergents and water to clean hard surfaces such as wood furnishings, desks, and metal cabinets before we dry them.

To dry your property, we set up air movers and leave them in position until we achieve the desired evaporation. Since evaporation moves moisture into the air, we position dehumidifiers to lower the humidity. Dependent on the situation at hand, we may decide to use desiccant, low grain or refrigerant dehumidifiers.

SERVPRO of Central Washington County is just a phone call away, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 651-705-7028.

Dangers of a Leaky Roof

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

With all the different kinds of weather that we have had in the last month or so in Minnesota, a durable roof is one of the most important infrastructures of a house, right after a strong, sturdy foundation. Just like it’s necessary to fix cracks in a foundation to ensure the rest of a house isn’t affected from the ground up, it’s important to fix leaks in a roof to protect a home from the top down, too. If you suspect you have a leaky roof, a roofing contractor can determine the cause and perform roof repairs, if necessary. To avoid any leaks or other issues from happening in the future, make sure to schedule regular inspections, perform general maintenance and upkeep, and have repairs completed as quickly as possible, since acting quickly could help you save time and money. 

Causes and Sources of Leaks

There are a number of reasons why a roof may develop leaks, from both natural and manmade causes. No matter the cause, it's imperative to seek the services of a reliable roofing contractor to get your roof back in its best shape so that your home is protected from the elements.

SHINGLES AND FLASHING

Something as small and simple as a broken shingle could be the culprit of a leak. Severe weather, hail and high winds can cause shingles to become loose, crack and break off, leaving your roof exposed. If the nails used to secure shingles aren't properly sealed with a durable coating like roofing cement, it can leave exposed holes which can allow water and moisture to get into the attic. Broken or cracked flashing—the pieces of material installed under shingles, on joints and around chimneys—can also cause leaks. Both damaged flashing and missing shingles can be easily identified, usually as different, discolored patches or exposed areas on a roof. You may even find pieces of them in your yard after a bad storm.

IMPROPER INSTALLATION/REPAIRS

If you've had previous roof repairs done but if a leak keeps coming back, you've either got a problem with the workmanship of the roofing contractor who did the work or the materials they used (or both). Improperly installing elements such as skylights and chimneys can also cause roof leaks - this can happen from incorrectly measuring and fitting fixtures and/or insulation that's started to decay or disintegrate. Leaks from this kind of problem are generally easy to spot. Just look for wet spots or small streams of water coming out of skylights or running down walls/chimneys when it rains.

PLUMBING AND PIPE PROBLEMS

Pipes run throughout the home including the roof, which means there are a number of areas that are common leak sources related to your home's plumbing and ventilation system. These include plumbing vent pipes, ventilation fan ducts, attic vents and exhaust pipes/flues (for appliances). Anytime there are worn or cracked rubber boots and/or broken flashing around the vent pipes that come out of the roof, it's likely you're in need of repairs.

CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE

Since the attic is usually the least insulated—and the highest elevated—place in your home, it is more prone to mold and mildew growth from excessive moisture that can accumulate when condensation becomes trapped. The cause of the moisture is from wet weather such as rain, sleet, and hail, but also ice dams melting and the fluctuation in temperatures when seasons change. You'll most likely notice a smell—before you see the mold—as a sign of a leak in your roof.

What Can Happen if You Don't Get Roof Repairs

Whether you’re dealing with issues associated with weather and moisture or improperly installed parts, it’s essential to perform any necessary roof leak repairs as soon as possible – not only to fix the problem, but also to prevent any future damage. For example, if you have a moisture issue causing a leak that goes untreated, it could result in mold and mildew growth, which could not only destroy the wood in the attic, but also cause health effects.

Every roof experiences some level of wear and tear from all types of weather (sun, rain, hail, extreme heat, wind, etc.). As a home's first line of defense from these elements, it's important to make sure you have a durable, weatherproof roof that's properly sealed and maintained in order to increase the lifecycle of the roof and decrease the risk of damage to it.

 The Importance of Roof Repairs

If you have a roof leak, repair it as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to help protect your home from bigger problems such as flooding. Contact a roofing contractor to have a thorough assessment of the roof completed and get advice on what steps you need to take to repair the damage. It’s best to work with a roofing contractor because their expertise is in roofing and they will be able to pinpoint and address your specific needs. Depending on the cause of the damage, your home insurance company may cover the costs of the roof repair, so make sure to contact your insurance company, too.

Lastly, if you should have a roof that leaks into the structure and need to begin the mitigation process, call SERVPRO of Central Washington. Our team of professionals specialize in removal and mitigation of storm damaged material and have the experience of quickly drying out affected areas from storm and weather damage before it is made worse. We at SERVPRO of Central Washington County partner with all major insurance companies and vendors to make the transition back to “Like it never even happened,” as quick as possible.

 Call us today and let us show you. 651-705-7028

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of corona virus, 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 corona virus. 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 corona virus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

 Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. 

Independent Franchises, But One National Team

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

As with anyone in sales, I get asked one question more than any other.  What’s makes SERVPRO different then the next restoration company?  It’s a great question to ask, and really struck me as I was at a vendor convention hosted by an insurance company.  Sitting there at our booth I could see that the majority of vendors at this adjusters convention offered the same type of services we did.  They all did water and fire damage restoration and mold mitigation.  Some also did the same types of cleaning services we offer.  Others included the mitigation and reconstruction of the structure as well.  So what really does make us different?

It really starts with the fact that we are a national company, with independent owner operators.  Our partners at SERVPRO Headquarters in Tennessee, set the tone for how operations are carried out.  Be it from a piece of equipment that is tested and put through the ringer to make sure it will hold up in the field for our techs.  Or the fact that when a disaster strikes we can quickly mobilize and send resources from around the country to help.  We truly are faster to any size disaster. 

None of this works though without the men and women at the franchise level.  Be it the normal daytime routine, or reporting to the scene of a disaster in the middle of the night, SERVPRO techs answer the call knowing that they are walking into most people’s worst nightmare, and are the calming voice of reason and reassurance to our clients.  They aren’t comic book heroes, but they do save the day on a regular basis. 

Finally, we answer the phone!  When a franchise’s office is closed for the night, the weekend, or a holiday we are still on call and answering the phone.  SERVPRO headquarters has a 24 hour call center that routes all calls to the appropriate franchise.  Each franchise has a dedicated person answering the phone 24 hours a day, even in the middle of the night.  And finally techs are on a rotating on call schedule to make sure we can gets boots on the ground of any emergency when the calls come in. 

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: http://www.SERVPROcentralwashingtoncounty.com/

6 Steps to a Professional Kitchen Hood Cleaning

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Regular cleanings of restaurant kitchen hood vents are an essential part of any fire safety maintenance plan. Without regular attention, oil and other debris can build up in the hood, exhaust fan, filters and ductwork, significantly increasing the chances of a grease fire. Undergoing a hood cleaning twice a year will help you meet the National Fire Protection Agency’s (NFPA) standards for reducing the risk of fire. This process typically takes between three and six hours. To help you prepare for your upcoming appointment, here’s a guide to what to expect during this procedure.

What Happens During a Professional Hood Cleaning?

1. Kitchen Prep

Hood cleaning may create a mess, so the cleaning company will begin by prepping the kitchen for the process. This includes turning off pilot lights and gas valves, covering appliances, and removing any items that could potentially get contaminated by the cleaning chemicals and dirty water. The cleaning crew will also remove all filters and disassemble any wall-mounted hoods and fans for cleaning.

2. Filter Cleaning

Kitchen exhaust filters often become caked in grease and grime. The hood cleaning process involves removing the filters and soaking them in a cleaning solution to loosen the hardened grease. After several hours, the filters are power-washed and then reinstalled.

3. Fan Cleaning

Kitchen exhaust fans are another place where grease builds up. Fire safety maintenance requires the fans to be removed for a thorough cleaning from top to bottom to reduce hidden hazards. The crew will spray the fan with degreasing chemicals and then scrub the blades clean by hand and power washing. Before the fans are reinstalled, the entire system is inspected and the fan belts replaced to ensure it’s in working order.

4. Vent & Ductwork Inspection

NFPA guidelines require that all exhaust duct systems be cleaned and degreased regularly, so a thorough hood cleaning includes manually scraping any solidified grease from the vents and ducts before spraying on chemicals to dissolve the remaining grease. After a final scrub, the vents and ductwork are inspected to ensure they comply with NFPA rules.

5. Power Washing

Once the fans, vents, and filters are clean, the crew will tackle the kitchen hoods themselves. This begins with manually scraping congealed grease from the hood, and then applying a degreasing cleaning chemical to loosen any remaining residue. After 30 to 60 minutes, the cleaners power-wash the hood with hot water, leaving it clean and free of grease that could start a fire.

6. Inspection & Documentation

The final step of the process happens once the crew has restored the kitchen to its prior condition. This is when the process will be documented and your technician will apply a certification sticker to the unit. This tells health inspectors and insurance companies that you are in compliance NFPA guidelines and have worked with licensed fire protection services to ensure the safety of your kitchen.

 If your restaurant kitchen hood needs cleaning, call SERVPRO of Central Washington County at 651-705-7028. Our trained professionals can help many of your professional cleaning and mitigation needs.

Restore vs. Replace

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Washington County specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

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

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

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

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

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

Electronic Cleanup

Fire-damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by fire. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If the residues are not removed, corrosion causes electronic failure in the device. We will coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including:

• Television sets
• DVD players
• Computers
• And more

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Central Washington County can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

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

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Tracker by Xactware, which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:

• Pre-loss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claims

Peace of mind when you need it most!

IICRC Certified Firm

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Washington County is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Central Washington County

SERVPRO of Central Washington County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Our technicians are certified in the following areas:

• Water Damage Restoration

• Applied Structural Drying

• Commercial Drying Specialist

• Applied Microbial Remediation

• Fire & Smoke Restoration

• Odor Control

• Carpet Cleaning

• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning

• Carpet Repair & Reinstallation

• Health & Safety

In addition, Chris Lick, owner of SERVPRO of Central Washington County has received special recognition from the IICRC as a Master Water Restorer, Master Fire & Smoke Restorer, and Master Textile Cleaner. 

Emergency Ready Profile

4/13/2020 (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 Washington County and Saint Paul business, you can 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 to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage

• 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 you 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 in inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
• 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.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Call us today to get started, 651-705-7028!

SERVPRO of Central Washington County representatives are happy to meet with property managers and business owners for a free assessment and set up an Emergency READY Profile for your business.

Disaster Shut Down

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

When you own a business, there’s never a convenient time for a disaster to strike. Fire, flooding, or destruction from a natural disaster can take time to mitigate and should be dealt with immediately before the damage spreads. Once the immediate danger is handled, cleanup and restoration of the damage can begin. In a world where time means money, any amount of downtime can put your business at risk of lost revenue and productivity. Remember, every hour spent cleaning up and repairing damage is an hour of opportunity lost for your business.

If you are a small business and have limited resources, it can be difficult to recover from a disaster, especially when it interrupts your daily operations. However, with the support of the right disaster commercial recovery team and a comprehensive recovery strategy, you can get back to business faster.

Be Prepared Before an Emergency Hits

According to FEMA, almost half of all small businesses affected by a disaster will never re-open their doors. For those that do, 90 percent will fail within a year if they don’t resume their operations within five days of the damage occurring. Why is that? Depending on the type and extent of damage, general operations may have to stop within the affected area. Meanwhile, life as usual goes on for customers and clients who are not directly impacted by the disaster. While some may be willing to wait for the business to reopen its doors, any long-term business disruption can send customers and clients looking elsewhere to get their needs met.

Businesses, large and small have a better chance of recovering from a disaster and successfully returning to business as usual if they have a plan before disaster strikes. Even when a disaster plan does exist, only 80 percent of companies spend time re-evaluating their plan each year. If you do not have one, it’s time to create one, so your business can go on as usual in the event of an emergency.

Creating a Emergency Response Plan (ERP)

If a fire, flood, or natural disaster were to occur, would you know who to contact to save your business? Regardless of the size of your business, having a ERP  for your business will give you a roadmap to recovery if an emergency occurs. This plan will help you save time and limit your property losses by saving as many assets as possible. It includes:

commercial services - commercial space with painters plastic hanging in windows

Compiling a list of emergency contacts, including phone numbers and addresses.

Phone calls

E-mails

What is Involved in Commercial Restoration?

SERVPRO of Central Washington County offers multiple restoration services to our commercial clients, including:

Emergency mitigation services to protect remaining business assets and building from secondary damage

Stabilization of building

Boarding-up your facility

Drying and dehumidifying your building

Recovering documents

Restoring electronics and wiring

Restoring your location to preloss condition

Reconstructing your building

What Should You Do if a Disaster Shuts Down Your Business?

When disaster strikes in the Washington County, Saint Paul and surrounding areas, SERVPRO of Central Washington County is ready to get to work. As a leader in property emergency services, we can help your business overcome the devastating setbacks of property damage caused by fire, water, or other natural disasters. We can assist our commercial clients in planning and project management in helping create a solid business disaster recovery plan.

SERVPRO ERP, the Bridge to Your Business Continuity Plan

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers all commercial, educational, and governmental buildings a free Emergency Readiness Plan, which includes a walkthrough of the building and a report in both hard and digital copies.  Which can be accessed on any mobile device, anywhere and anytime.  70% of businesses go out of business after a major disaster to the physical business, and of the 30% that make it through the disaster only half have some kind of plan in place.  And that 50% is who this article is directed at.

When I sit down and chat with businesses, nursing homes, schools, city governments, or hospitals that all have some sort of plan in place they don’t initially see the value in having SERVPRO put together an ERP for them.  That’s when I ask about their plan, and usually get the same types of answers:  “Our employees will work remotely.” “Our residents and staff will be moved to another facility.” “Why reinvent the wheel?" And more answers along the same lines. All having to do with continuing work.

That’s when I ask the question, Well how do you plan on stabilizing the building once the disaster is under control?  How do you plan on securing the premises and contents of the building?  What if you as the owner or decision maker aren’t available, will the employees know how to contact the next person in line, or your insurance agent.  Do they even know where the binder with the master plan is kept, and if you are at the scene, will you be able to get to it.  That’s why it’s nice to have an app on your phone that you can access with ease. 

If a company already has a continuity plan in place, the SERVPRO ERP is a great bridge to get your organization stable and into the plan you have in place for situations that stop you from working as normal.  The faster a damaged building can be secured and mitigation can be put in place, the more of the building that can be saved and the faster the reconstruction can begin.  If your business does not already have a plan in place, the ERP is a great base to build your plan from. 

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: http://www.SERVPROcentralwashingtoncounty.com/

Your Client Has A Property Lost – What Now? 1-4-8 Response Time

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

In last week’s article we discussed the potential cost benefits of using a remediation company, what that mean.  So, you have a client call in with a loss.  That’s when our 1-4-8 service guarantee kicks in.  Within 1 hour of receiving notice of loss your client will be contacted to determine scope of loss.  Within 4 hours of that notice we will have boots on the ground to visual determine the scope and begin necessary work to mitigate further loss.  By the 8^th hour, we will have spoken with you and your client to provide an update on how the course of action will proceed.  Response time in any loss, be it fire, water, etc is critical, when trying to salvage both building and personal materials.  That’s why we are faster to any size disaster.   

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: http://www.SERVPROcentralwashingtoncounty.com/

We Had _________ Happen To Our Place of Business, What Now!

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Every business owner’s worst nightmare is something happening to the physical location of their company.  The place where your inventory, records, or employees report for work each day.  In a digital age, the brick and mortar location is still an important element of many companies.  What happens when a sprinkler head breaks, or that bag of popcorn in the break room microwave catches on fire?  Most businesses need to be in their facilities to conduct business, what’s your plan to get back into your building after an accident.

70% of businesses that go through some sort of disaster do not reopen.  Of the 30% that do reopen, half had emergency readiness plans in place.  It is hard enough to reopen a business after a loss, have you improved your odds by having a plan in place.  If not, SERVPRO of Central Washington County can help put one in place.  Our complimentary program, compiles the emergency contacts, shut offs and service entrances throughout the building.  Along with any other information of value, to first responders or employees.  The information is kept both in a hard copy, as well as, a mobile app on key employees’ phones.  Faster response times are always critical in any emergency situation. 

For our commercial insurance partners, teaming with SERVPRO to provide this plan is a fantastic way to give additional value and protection to your clients.  Reach out today to schedule a time to put your plan into place.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 651-705-7028. Visit our site: http://www.SERVPROcentralwashingtoncounty.com/

COMMERCIAL FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS MYTHS

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

If a fire breaks out in your business, acting fast to put out the flames could save you from costly damage and loss. That's why commercial fire sprinkler systems are so important.

Although sprinkler systems can protect you, your staff, your customers and your business from harm, myths about fire sprinklers still exist.

MYTH: Water damage caused by fire sprinklers is more costly than fire damage.

FACT: According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), sprinkler systems are actually more cost-effective than damage caused by other firefighting efforts. Since sprinklers can keep a fire contained within one room rather than allowing the flames and smoke to spread throughout the building, most fire damage clean-up will only occur in one space. Furthermore, water damage from fire hoses is typically more expensive to repair. Quick-response sprinklers only release 8 to 24 gallons of water per minute, whereas fire hoses release 50 to 125 gallons per minute.

MYTH: If one fire sprinkler is triggered, all fire sprinklers will go off.

FACT: When one sprinkler in your commercial sprinkler system goes off, only the adjacent sprinklers that sense high levels of heat will activate. According to FEMA, this means that only one or two sprinkler heads will go off in the event of a fire.

MYTH: Sprinklers are overly sensitive.

FACT: Fire sprinklers only ever activate when high heat is detected, so an employee burning their lunch or taking a smoke break too close to the building will not set off the sprinkler system. According to FEMA, only 1 in 16 million sprinkler heads activate accidentally, making their benefits far outweigh any risks.

As a business owner, safety and protection are important to keeping operations going smoothly. To help keep your company safe from any potential fire damage, install commercial sprinklers and place fire extinguishers throughout your facility.

If the unexpected does happen, know that you're not alone. SERVPRO of Central Washington County is committed to being by your side every step of the way to get your business on its feet as quickly as possible. Use our fire and smoke damage clean-up services and our water damage clean-up services to get your doors back open fast.