Professionals in Restoration

7/22/2022 (Permalink)

Because of the convection pattern that flames typically form during ignition, smoky residue saturates every opening. The soot constructs up in layers that may end up being solidified and tough to eliminate which is another reason to leave the cleaning to a specialist. When the cleaning teams do arrive, they promptly different salvageable items from charred debris, taking the things creating the strongest odors out for cleaning. Following a fire, wall surface areas can be harmed by soot. Non-water based cleaners need to be used to remove soot from walls. These kinds of chemicals should be handled by a specialist due to the fumes and toxicity. Water-based cleaning items can cause spots to bleed into plaster walls which is why a trained specialist should be left to deal with these chemicals. Most importantly, a restoration effort reduces the after-effects a blaze can have on the health of those who return in. 

If a homeowner does not have the property restored by a professional, the results can be found later on down the line. To an untrained eye they might believe the issue has been fixed, they experience the remaining impacts of indoor air pollution for numerous months later on in the form of increased respiratory discomfort. Companies like SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms are leading experts in fire restoration. They are trained to help remove your belongings as well as cleaning and storing them until your property has been restored to its original condition.

Fire Fighting Technology

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

Everyone knows how devastating fire damage can be, especially when your home experiences a fire, your livelihood and belongings are in grave danger. 

Firefighters risk their lives every day to make sure fires are prevented and minimized and to do that they must have the best equipment. Disaster safety equipment is advancing every day and a great example would be this brand new piece of fire-fighting technology, the C-Thru Firefighting Helmet developed in Sweden.

The C-Thru Fire fighting helmet is similar to Divers helmets with a flash of tomorrows technology thrown in with capabilities such as adjustable oxygen and CO2 levels like normal helmets but also contain heads up  displays to let the firefighter know his remaining oxygen levels, temperature, Line assisted environment visuals, thermal imaging and many other tools to make saving lives for fire fighters easier. 

Restoring Your Business After a Flood

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

Floods can be miserable ordeals, even with extensive preparation. They can spring up with little to no warning and saddle you with the responsibility of a lengthy, expensive restoration period. Your business could be underwater in a flash, and you could be faced with mounting repair bills and extended interruption to your business. But floods can also be regenerative. Large-scale damage to your business is an opportunity to rebuild and minimize potential damage and disruption that could be caused by future floods. If your business has sustained flood damage, do not panic. Think of it as a chance to fortify your business against future flood damage rather than nothing but a ruinous misfortune.

All in all, it is important to remember that water damage to commercial locations can be excessively harmful because it can quickly not only damage the building but also the contents inside.  Even minor water damage can impact a business’s productivity. Depending on the magnitude of water damage, the water must be removed, the infiltrated areas cleared, and an inventory of losses drawn out.  To minimize the extent of the leak, contact SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms. With our professional expertise our SERVPRO team can look after all your water damage restoration needs. We possess the essential manpower and technology to correct problems associated with water damage on commercial and business properties.

Senior Living

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is very proud to state that our involvement with our community is one of our main focuses. Our biggest example of this is the work we do with Sunrise Senior Living Homes, we service and restore the homes of our elderly and senior citizens whenever they are in need, and we are happy to say that it has strengthened our relationship with our community because of it. Many of our clients speak highly of our services and that is what we strive for, to provide service our clients are happy with on a consistent basis to uphold our standard of service. This applies with all our other clients as well, which is why we are always open to calls 24/7, 365 days a year. 

After The Storm

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

The storms have stopped and the wind is calm. Outside the skies begin to clear, revealing downed trees, misplaced outdoor furniture, and random pieces of debris. From your window, your property appears unharmed. But is it really? What about the roof? The windows? The new siding and gutters?

There's no telling what kind of property damage a storm can bring. Even if it appears your property survived the wicked winds, taking a walk around your home could reveal a hidden problem you might not have seen otherwise.

Here's a quick checklist of what you should look for, courtesy of the National Storm Damage Center:

1) Window Damage
Get up close and personal with your windows, checking for shattered glass, broken panes, or damaged frames. Look carefully for small holes or cracks in unsuspecting areas.

2) Roof Damage
Check for loose or cracked shingles. If you have an asphalt roof, unidentified dark spots could be storm damage. Determine if any debris is lodged under shingles, too.

3) Clogged Gutters
Heavy rains can down limbs, bringing with it leaves and small branches that can clutter your gutter. Check for fragments jammed along the gutter and in the downspout.

4) Exterior Damage
Siding can tear loose, paint can peel, and stucco can break free. Even brick can suffer the wrath of a bad storm. Take a walk around your home and check for any potential damage. Holes, breaks, and splitting are common side effects of a storm. Discoloration of siding or brick is another symptom.

Identifying any immediate damage can save you time and money, especially if the damage is excessive and requires a call to your insurance company. Waiting to repair your home can create more costly problems somewhere down the road.

Landslide

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms, of course. Our technicians are highly trained in damage restoration and can clean just about anything.

Many parts of a home or business may be damaged during a landslide. Whether it's a priceless family heirloom or important office paperwork, SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms has the specialized equipment and products to make it "Like it never even happened."

Our water damage restoration technicians are IICRC certified and readily available when emergency strikes. We also have a team of construction experts who can get your home or business up and running again. 

SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms can do it all. There is no job too big or small and we make your needs our highest priority. Why deal with multiple contractors when you can work with one company that will handle everything?

If you are faced with damage to your home or business due to a landslide call SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms today.

Over the past couple years, flooding has been a major problem in and around the Cheviot Hills/Palms area. Storms can roll through bringing strong winds, thunder and lightning, and torrential rain. The large amount of rain is not absorbed by the ground quick enough, so the water runs off and accumulates in low-lying areas. Water will also run into creeks, rivers, and ponds causing them to swell, which means that the water levels to rise. Both bodies of water and low-lying areas can quickly accumulate water and the water can rise very fast.

If the forecast is calling for heavy rain, it is a good idea to stay up-to-date on the threat level. A flood or flash flood warning means that flooding is possible and you should be prepared to possibly carry out your emergency plan. A flood or flash flood watch means that flooding is occurring or will occur soon. If your home or business is prone to flooding, you will be told to evacuate the area.

When planning for an emergency, the first step is getting basic supplies together. Some of these items include water, canned food, first aid supplies, and batteries for radios and flashlights. These items should be kept together in a separate area from where they would usually be stored, and everyone in your home or office should know where it is located in the event that an emergency were to occur. It is also a good idea to keep important documents – birth certificates, medical records, insurance cards - in this box/area. If a flood warning is issued, fill your gas tank and move your emergency items into your car. If you do not own a car, make arrangements with family, friends, or neighbors for transportation. Gather family and pets, if possible. If your pets will not fit in a car with you, or if you own livestock and are unable take them, find a safe area to move them to. You should also adjust refrigerator thermostats to the coolest possible temperature in case the power goes out.

If you are told that you need to evacuate your home or business, you should leave as soon as possible; never ignore this order! It is advised to turn off your water, electricity, and gas and to unplug appliances, if you have time, to reduce the possibility of additional damage occurring to your home. Those of us who have grown up in the area, have heard the saying a thousand times – “Turn Around, Don’t Drown”. Don’t ever attempt to walk or drive through flood waters. You cannot be sure of how deep the water actually is, nor can you properly gauge the strength of the moving water.

Flooding is common in our area and being prepared is essential to avoid making a bad situation worse. If your home or business experiences flood or water damage, call our team in green!

Dangers Of The Job

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

Some Jobs are quite dangerous due to their nature or the nature of their remediation. For example, a mold remediation job most of the time requires that the affected areas are sprayed with bleach and other chemicals that may be harmful or hazardous to human health. When this process is done on a large scale we have to ensure the safety of our technicians so we ensure they wear the proper protective materials such as light or heavy hazmat suits and air filtration masks that seal the body off from harmful chemicals. These measures are also taken in bio-hazard jobs where there might be contaminated bodily fluids or raw sewage that pose serious health effects if consumed in any way. If you have any questions in general or about our safety procedures don’t hesitate to give us a call at the number listed above.

Protecting Your Home

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

Murphy’s Law when traveling: “Anything that can go wrong will go wrong, while you’re traveling away from home”. Having to return from a memorable trip to learn that something has seriously gone wrong at home can be distressing. But following is a list of essential tips that will allow you to be stress free while you sit back and enjoy your getaway!

1. Keep curtains open!

You may think that leaving the curtains closed may prevent others from peeking inside your home. However, it is recommended that you leave some of your curtains opened (make sure to keep expensive items out of sight). If your curtains are unusually closed for a long period of time it could become obvious that no one is home.

2. Keep lights on or off?

Leaving the lights on in your home while you’re away may end up costing you more than your mortgage! It is recommended that you purchase an automatic light switch timer so that your lights will switch on and off at certain times during the day/night making it appear as though someone is actually home.  

3. Pull the plug!

It is recommended that you unplug all appliances including, your TV, toaster oven, etc. while you’re away. This may help prevent a power surge which can cause a fire hazard.

4. Piping

This applies to those that reside in very cold regions.  Pipes may be in danger of freezing so it is recommended that you have someone check in on your faucets while you’re away. If very little to no water comes out when turning the faucets on this is an indication that the pipes may be frozen! Take the time to make sure your pipes are properly insulated to avoid this from happening. Finally, show your key-holder (friend/neighbor) the location of the water main shut-off in case a pipe breaks.

These preventative measures only take a few  minutes to complete and can help you keep your home safe from broken pipes(flood hazard), home invasions(property loss/damage), power surges(fire hazard), and more in your absence. In the event that you suffer a loss such as these, please do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO for all of your restoration needs!

Average cost of Fire and Smoke damage repair

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Even a small fire within a home can result in extensive damage from smoke and the water used to extinguish the fire. Prompt professional repair and restoration is essential in order to prevent additional damage and problems such as mold growth and wood rot. Before making a call to a professional, here are some things you should know first.

The average cost of repair and restoration services after fire and smoke damage is $2,950. The total cost that a homeowner pays for such repairs will depend on the location and extent of the damage. For example, fire damage to a kitchen may cost more to repair than damage to a closet due to the expense of replacing costly cabinets and appliances. The out of pocket amount that a homeowner pays to have fire and smoke damage repairs might be reduced by homeowner's insurance coverage. 

Water used to extinguish a fire can saturate the walls and floors of the home. The water can quickly cause mold growth and wood rot if the water isn't removed and the home thoroughly dried. Soot from the fire can saturate and stain anything upholstered. Professional restoration is needed in order to salvage the furnishings as well as linens, draperies and carpet. Smoke discoloration and odors can pervade almost everything in a home, including furnishings, carpets and rugs, linens and clothing. Professional restoration is essential in order to save those items. The smoke can also damage the home's air ducts, resulting in foul odors each time the furnace or air conditioner turns on. Restoration and repair services are needed to clean the ducts before the HVAC system is used again.

The larger the area of a home damaged by smoke and fire, the higher the cost in terms of both time and money to repair and restore the damage. It's important to start the repair and restoration process as soon as possible after a fire, as the longer the damage is left untreated, the worse it can become. Because proper repair and restoration may require the use of professional grade chemicals and equipment, the entire process should be left to experienced professionals.

Commercial Mold

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is proud to say that we service any type of restoration job from a small home to huge commercial buildings, we can handle any size job you throw at us! We have done large scale restorations on many different types of properties including mold, water, and fire damage restoration on multi-floor commercial buildings and constructions. We always work to expand and improve our reach and quality of work and are very proud to have worked with many businesses in the past to get their work back on track after incidents and disasters. View the photo for an example of a large scale mold job that we serviced just last year, with over a dozen floors of mold damage throughout the half finished construction, in a matter of weeks we were able to get the whole commercial building back to serviceable condition. 

T-Mobile

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

When businesses are in need SERVPRO is there to help, we are proud to work with many places such as T-mobile and Metro which we have had a very successful relationship with for many years. Providing our services to local businesses is not only part of our livelihood but also a part of our community relations we are so proud of. When it comes to servicing our local businesses we know that time is money and as a community we can’t afford to risk people’s livelihoods so we work as quickly and efficiently as possible to get these businesses back to operating condition. We see what we do as a vital part of our community and as such, we’d like to set a standard that we uphold of healthy community interaction and relationships.

Storm Water Damage Emergency Tips

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

What you can do until help arrives

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Hurricane Michael Statistics

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can be quite a scary disaster but sometimes the proportions are quite unbelievable. A great example would be Hurricane Michael, a storm that hit in Florida from October 7-11, 2018. This was a category 5 storm that caused immense damage and devastated many homes and buildings. Here are some mind boggling statistics on Hurricane Michael.

• Wind speeds reached up to 160 mph near the storms center, enough to knock you off your feet!
• 1584 buildings where reportedly damaged, with 809 buildings reported completely destroyed.
• $25 billion in damages where caused by the storm.
• Tragically, 16 deaths where reported as caused from the storm.

These statistics show that being prepared for the worst is in your best interest if you live in a area where storms frequently hit.

Unexpected storms

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

In areas where storms don't occur often such as California, many properties are not prepared for a sudden storm that may roll through unexpectedly, meaning if properties in that area that are unprepared or ill equipped for a storm can sustain heavy damage. There are many things property owners can do to prepare for storms, and SERVPRO will even help, with our emergency readiness program we can help you prepare for any disaster with no cost to you. Being ready for a disaster is important whether you own a home or business, this is because if disaster strikes your life or business may be on hold for a long time and cost you even more if not properly prepared. We are always happy to uphold our amazing service!

Property Losses and Insurance Coverage

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Many property owners are uneducated about details of their insurance policies. As you may know a standard property policy does not cover flood, earthquakes or volcanoes. However, 1 out of 3 homeowners don’t know the exact dollar amount or their “cap” for coverage. This means property owners end up paying a lot more out of pocket than expected after a loss. Here is some helpful information to make sure you are prepared for property emergencies; most likely, your insurance carrier does not guarantee the repairs/services provided to your property. Also, don’t assume you must hire the company your insurance carrier suggests. SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms is a leader in the restoration industry and its professionals are faster to any size disaster. Make sure you are prepared to suffer a major loss to your home by knowing the facts ahead of time.

How We Help Post Construction

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

After a remediation and reconstruction job is finished, SERVPRO doesn't just leave you hanging. We strive to help our clients until the very end to ensure a satisfactory service experience. Here are a few ways we help you after your remediation and construction are done;

• Post Construction Cleaning - After floors and drywall is up, we clean all newly constructed areas to properly prepare for interior design and painting.
• Dehumidification and Drying - Construction can possibly trap moisture in the building, to ensure this doesn't cause future issues we dehumidify and dry the areas with drying equipment.
• Final Cleaning - A service we provide to clients to make sure they are ready to open the doors with and extra shine, this includes carpet, floor, wall, fixture, and duct cleaning.

Speed of Water

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to water damage, time is your worst enemy. Within a matter of minutes water spreads and furniture finishes can deteriorate, while the wet carpets the furniture is on begins to stain. Within a matter of hours dyes on fabrics may begin to bleed their color, furniture directly affected by the water begins to swell, and a number of different odors will become apparent in your home. Within days and weeks Paint blisters, wallpaper peels, wood will warp and swell and fungi will begin to appear. You can always count on SERVPRO to get to the job, assess the situation, prevent the spread and fix the damage. Here at SERVPRO we are here to make sure your precious home is returned to its original form.

Smoke and Soot Clean Up

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot can cause serious damage in hard to reach areas in your home. Our expertise allows us to assess the extent of the damage and develop a comprehensive plan of action. 

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper level of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process

Different types of smoke

There are two different types of smoke, wet and dry. As a result, there are differing types of soot damage that can occur after a fire. Before our restoration process can begin, we test to find the specific type of soot that has built up. The cleaning procedures may differ depending on the results, here's some additional information on that;

Dry Smoke - Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Wet Smoke - Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean. 

Protein Fire Residue - produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extremely pungent odor. 

Our fire restoration services are available 24 hours a day, anytime you have questions or concerns call us at (323) 667-3100

Discovering Sources of Water Damage

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

If you discover a water leak in your home, the first few minutes are critical.  The top priority is to avoid panic and focus on getting the source of the water stopped.  The most common water leaks in a home can be traced to the kitchen or a bathroom. 

Most all common water supplies in a residence have a cut-off valve nearby and all valves can be turned off with a clockwise turn.  If the source of the leak is your washing machine, the valves to turn off the flow are located behind the machine.  Do not disconnect the hoses.  Instead, turn off the water flow where the hoses are connected in the wall. 

In the kitchen, you will find shut-off values for the faucet under the sink.  This is also where you will most likely find the shut-off valve for an ice maker, if your freezer is equipped with one.  The valve that controls your sink is usually the same valve that provides flow to your dishwasher.  In a bathroom, cutoff valves are below the sink and may be within a sink cabinet if you have one.  The supply line for the toilet is commonly located under and behind the seat. 

A water heater can also be the source of your leak.  If it is a gas tank, turn off the gas supply first then turn off the water.  The water supply valve is usually located near or above the top of the tank.

Stopping the leak at its source as quickly as possible will minimize damage to cabinets, floors, walls and contents.  Within a single minute, several gallons of water can flow into your home and saturate anything in its path, including adjacent rooms. 

Some leaks cannot be stopped with an inside valve so the water supply to your house has to be turned off.  Lines carrying water into your home come from a main line outside that can usually be found close to the street where your water meter is located. 

At SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms, we are experts at mitigating water damages. Our skilled technicians work quickly and efficiently to extract the water, assess the damage, install drying equipment and dry your property to its preloss condition.

Storms and Infrastructure

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

In places like California where storms don't occur often,  the infrastructure and plumbing is not entirely ready for large scale storm flooding. There have been scenarios such ass the example that is about to be written, where the infrastructure failed and cased massive damage. This example is a case when there was a storm in Southern California and the flood waters that came from the storm filled he storm drains to a point where they went beyond capacity and cracked, this caused the flood water to flood into an apartment building nearby the affected area. This type of damage is sometimes a freak accident such as this is unavoidable, but the best thing to do is  always keep in mind that such scenarios can occur, so when disaster strikes you can act quickly. SERVPRO is always ready to help!

Category of Water Damage

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

There are 3 different types of water damage designated by the IICRC (the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification). There’s clean water damage, grey water damage, and black water damage. 

• Category 1: The least severe of the three which includes water damage from broken pipes, water supply lines, sinks, bathtubs and other appliance related issues. This is less severe because the water is clean and doesn’t have sewage. Most Category 1 incidents can be dried very easily.
• Category 2: This water damage includes grey water. This can come from toilets, washing machines, and sump pump backups. This grey water may or may not be harmful to humans so it is very important to clean and disinfect the area.
• Category 3: This is the worst type of water damage and is also called black water. Black water includes sewage and sea water and requires swift action.

Property Protection

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Are you a business owner? Do you own properties or buildings that house either your offices or multiple franchises? If this is the case then you may have unfortunately already encountered issues such as fire damage, water damage, mold infestations, bio-hazards, etc… These occurrences are quite common throughout a building’s lifetime, but the truth is that these occurrences can cause huge damage to the livelihoods of those affected, causing massive halts and delays to business, which in turn causes shortages in revenue and profit. To help our community of local and worldwide businesses SERVPRO is always at the ready to help you your life back on track. Even if your property has not had a history of issues and you worry for the safety of your business or property, SERVPRO can help by helping you prepare an E.R.P. or emergency ready plan which will ensure you are protected for the future.

Holiday Home Safety

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Decorating your home or business for the holiday season can be a fun activity. But watch out for any fire hazards that can quickly lead to a holiday mishap. Carefully inspect holiday light strings each year and get rid of any with worn cords, loose connections, and/or cracked lamp holders. When switching bulbs out, unplug the light string and be sure to match wattage and voltage to the original bulb. Always make sure to turn off all holiday lights when you are away from your home/business and/or when you are going to bed. Lastly, try to purchase a freshly cut tree, as they are less likely to catch on fire. Keep your Christmas tree away from candles and with enough water. Happy Holidays from all of us at SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills!

Retail Clean Up

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

This retail store was affected by the recent back to back storms that hit Southern California. The water leaked into the ceiling and affected a large portion of it inside the showcase area. The store owner was concerned with how much down time it would take to restore their property, as they would be out of business during that time period. However, our emergency service crew was able to complete the job in only 5 days. SERVPRO strives to provide all of our customers with high quality service every time! We care about our clients and work endlessly to get your business back up and running as soon as physically possible. Our Team of experts will work professionally and efficiently day and night to make it "Like it never even happened." 

Fire Damage Differences

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage is almost always devastating, regardless of size and damage. An important thing to know though is the type of fire damage you may have endured. SERVPRO is always here to help in any way we can, even if it's just to educate the community. If you take a good look at the picture here from a past job you can see that this home suffered a major loss due to a house fire. There's damage from smoke, soot, and ash on the walls leaving a black layer and a strong odor. There's regular physical damage that fire tends to cause when something is directly touched or set on fire. Something many people may not realize though is the water damage that comes with a fire. Anytime the fire department is called to battle a fire you can count on water damage from the fire hoses. If the home is left long enough with the water soaking into the furniture, carpets, flooring and everything else in the home, mold can form. If your home suffers a loss from a fire, don't wait! Call SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills to come and get the job done.

How Our Pack-out Service Keeps Your Belongings Safe

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO when we contend with your property and belongings during a disaster, and we believe our job is to make the whole process as smooth as possible. To ensure this we offer a packout service, what this is is our practice of collecting a clients belongings out of there home or property for safekeeping so they are not affected by the disaster they may be experiencing whether it be water or fire. We store all the belongings safely in crates in out warehouse until the job is finished. This allows our clients to avoid things such as expensive storage and moving costs including further damage to their belongings. In addition we also offer specialized cleaning procedures for certain materials that require it. Just another reason to choose SERVPRO.

Leakproof your home

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Now that fall is officially here, it is time to prepare your home and/or business for cold and rainy weather. But keeping water out of your property can be quite complicated. For example; plumbing issues can cause moisture and even light rain can cause leaks through the roof, walls, foundation etc. When this occurs the moisture eventually reaches the porous materials in your home, which may then lead to structural damage and other humidity concerns. It is important to note that if left untreated you also run the risk of mold growth. For these reasons it is highly recommended that you take proper care of any and all potential areas prone to leaks such as the following;

• Inspection of the plumbing pipe(s) system
• Inspection of the roof/chimney
• Inspection of the water heater
• Check attic insulation
• Clean the gutters
• Repair any cracks
• Seal proof doors and windows
• Check exterior faucets and irrigation system

After all, “An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure”. However, in the event that you encounter any leaks or flooding occurs, please contact SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills. We specialize in helping property owners recover from water damage and make it "Like it never even happened."

Data Loss Prevention

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

If a business you’re responsible for relies on backing up large amounts of electronic information, you’ll probably want to make sure there’s a way to preserve it in the case of an accident. To be more specific, you’ll want to have a contingency plan set up to deal with the possibility of fire damage. A fire in the server room can do more than simply damage infrastructure. It can also set a business back months while you replace ruined equipment, and—perhaps worst of all—it can obliterate large quantities of data that the company needs on a daily basis. Data could include everything from financial records to client databases, so you should only ignore the risk of fir eat the peril of losing some very important assets. If you’re a contractor working on behalf of one of these businesses, it also represents a significant challenge.

That said, there are a few things you can do to help avoid irreparable data loss in the event of a fire. From preventative measures to restorative treatments, here are a few ideas to help you soldier on when the sparks literally start flying:

Protect your data using cloud based backups

If you’re worried about losing data when physical servers and computers are threatened, there’s one simple solution: house it somewhere else (or at least house a copy there). Using a cloud based backup lets you store an extra version of your most important information using servers that you won’t be responsible for. Since many of the largest cloud based backup solutions (like Backblaze and Crashplan) take special care to preserve their users’ info, it’s a pretty safe bet that nothing will happen to your stash once you entrust it to them for safekeeping. Of course, this won’t save your equipment or facilities themselves, but it’s better than nothing.

Electronic restoration

In the unfortunate event that damage occurs to your servers and you haven’t stored backups of your information elsewhere, electronic restoration might be the only effective route to take. Many highly sensitive technologies can be restored—at least to some extent—including computers, telecommunications technology, manufacturing machinery and medical instruments. By removing corrosion and deposits, it’s often very possible to get these units working like new again for as little as 10-30% of the cost of replacing them entirely. Once a skilled technician removes contaminants such as soot, dust, and deposits from chemical vapors, he should be able to take the equipment apart, clean the individual pieces, reassemble them, adjust the machinery and return it to service.

Proactive planning for fire (and water) disasters

Of course, one of the best ways to deal with damage is to avoid it completely. You can save yourself from the inconvenience of having to restore your equipment by making sure it’s not an easy place for a fire to start or a flood to break out. Avoid storing flammable materials near sensitive equipment, and make sure electronics aren’t stored under your sprinkler system or near water pipes. It’s also a good idea to have maintenance briefed on the nature of the technology in the area so that they use safe and appropriate methods when cleaning or tidying up around it.

Have insurance

Finally, you want to make you have cover if a disaster does happen to strike. Restoring your electronics can save them, but it can also be time-consuming—and you want to make sure you can afford the downtime. That’s why having comprehensive fire and accident insurance is key to keeping you in business when the unexpected occurs. Make sure you understand your policy and keep an up to date copy with you always, just in case.

SERVPRO is Always Ready

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

As we have said before, SERVPRO can handle any size job, any time! The reason we have this capability is from the real dangers posed against large scale buildings and properties, from issues and disasters such as fire, water, mold, etc… SERVPRO is one of the few restoration companies that can handle such large scale remediation in no time, so we are always at the ready to quickly service our clients because we know their livelihoods and businesses are on the line. For example, whether it be a housing building that has sustained fire and soot damage, or a commercial office building that has sustained water damage and is riddled with mold, we know that the longer a restoration takes, the more delay and stress is put on the lives of those affected. That’s why we are always at the ready with only the best equipment and techniques!

Large Building Floods

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Floods are a common occurrence in any property over time, but when floods occur in large commercial buildings with multiple floors the situation becomes quite a bit more complicated. A common scenario for flooding in large buildings is a flood in a higher floor or level that then leaks and seeps down into the walls and rooms of the lower levels of the buildings. This makes locating all affected areas quite difficult, in addition to this the flood and water can have a huge impact on the other infrastructure within the building such as plumbing and electrical. An issue such as this can also easily serve as a catalyst for mold growth within the building. If you have any questions regarding your home or commercial building call SERVPRO Today.

Fires Area Of Affect

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage is devastating, this is a known fact. What’s not widely known is that when there is a large fire, there will also certainly be water damage as well. The reason for this is when the fire department responds to a large fire and spray the fire down with a fire hose they soak the entire property and materials within. Not many people consider this but every time the fire department is involved, there will be fire and water damage which in turn can cause mold growth if left for a long period of time. In most of these cases this requires the property to be completely demoed to be serviced and restored. This can be further complicated by lead and asbestos possibly being in buildings that are quite old requiring testing and proper chemical protection to be serviced. This in many regards is the worst case scenario for a property disaster so we urge you to keep being diligent about your personal and fire safety.

What Fire is

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Many people know what fire looks like and what fire does to things, but not many know what fire is really comprised of.  Fire is composed of mostly plasma, which is a substance that is most like a gas but kind of in between types of matter interestingly enough. Fire is created when a substance ignites and the molecules of that substance heat up and move very rapidly causing the flame. That’s precisely why fire is hot. Another interesting fact is that fire is not the direct cause of smoke, rather smoke is something that happens when a fire does not burn a substance very efficiently because of a lack of oxygen. These are the mechanics of why and how a fire burns and the smoke/soot it emits, these culminate to burn homes and rain forests alike, and remember, if you ever have an issue with fire, soot, or smoke on your property you can always call SERVPRO for help!

Storm Damage Clean Up

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

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

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms Today: (310)801-3312

SERVPRO Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry 
• Regardless of the Storm Damage, They Can Help
• Storms occur with little warning and can be especially devastating, so you’ll need the company that you can trust to rise to the occasion. Regardless of the type of storm, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can handle any size disaster. During catastrophic storms and major events, our Disaster Recovery Team can respond quickly with additional resources.
• Flooding caused by heavy rains
• Hurricanes and tidal surges
• Tornadoes and wind damage

Dishwasher Water Damage

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

How long before dishwasher water damage occurs?

Dishwasher water damage can occur within just a couple of hours. You get home, turn on the dishwasher, walk away and watch TV for a while, or run a few errands, only to come home and find a pool of water on the kitchen floor. The first reaction should be to soak up as much of the water as you can, because the longer it sits there, the more likely it will cause permanent damage.

Some flooring materials are more susceptible to dishwasher water damage than others, such as wood or bamboo. Wood will absorb water quickly, causing your flooring to warp and crack. Make sure to effectively dry out the area ASAP so you can avoid as much damage as possible.

Dishwasher water damage and what to expect

If you’ve never experienced dishwasher leaks or water damage before, you might not even know what you’re in for. Here’s what to expect when you’re dealing with water damage from dishwashers, including the common causes of leaks as well as what elements of your kitchen are most vulnerable after a leak.

What would cause a dishwasher to leak?

Common causes of dishwasher leaks include:

• Worn gaskets
• Dishwasher not level
• Wrong dishwashing soap used
• Broken door
• Defective dishwasher tub

Your dishwasher leak can cause water damage in a variety of ways to a variety of different elements of your kitchen. The below are all susceptible to damage after a dishwasher leak:

• Tile flooring
• Wood flooring
• Laminate flooring
• Electrical wiring
• Drywall
• Wallpaper
• Paint

Discovering Water Damage

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

If you discover a water leak in your home, the first few minutes are critical.  The top priority is to avoid panic and focus on getting the source of the water stopped.  The most common water leaks in a home can be traced to the kitchen or a bathroom. 

Most all common water supplies in a residence have a cut-off valve nearby and all valves can be turned off with a clockwise turn.  If the source of the leak is your washing machine, the valves to turn off the flow are located behind the machine.  Do not disconnect the hoses.  Instead, turn off the water flow where the hoses are connected in the wall. 

In the kitchen, you will find shut-off values for the faucet under the sink.  This is also where you will most likely find the shut-off valve for an ice maker, if your freezer is equipped with one.  The valve that controls your sink is usually the same valve that provides flow to your dishwasher.  In a bathroom, cutoff valves are below the sink and may be within a sink cabinet if you have one.  The supply line for the toilet is commonly located under and behind the seat. 

A water heater can also be the source of your leak.  If it is a gas tank, turn off the gas supply first then turn off the water.  The water supply valve is usually located near or above the top of the tank.

Stopping the leak at its source as quickly as possible will minimize damage to cabinets, floors, walls and contents.  Within a single minute, several gallons of water can flow into your home and saturate anything in its path, including adjacent rooms. 

Some leaks cannot be stopped with an inside valve so the water supply to your house has to be turned off.  Lines carrying water into your home come from a main line outside that can usually be found close to the street where your water meter is located. 

At SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms, we are experts at mitigating water damages. Our skilled technicians work quickly and efficiently to extract the water, assess the damage, install drying equipment and dry your property to its preloss condition.

When You Call

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

When you have a loss and you call SERVPRO, here’s what to expect. On your initial call our office will take down your information. This information includes your contact information, your location/address, the type of residence, your insurance, and most importantly the type of loss (water/fire/mold/etc…) and what caused it. We then pass the provided information to our project managers who give you a call within 30 mins. to an hour so we can immediately assess the situation and schedule an inspection so a scope of work and estimate can be given. This process ensures we can service your loss as fast as possible and make sure your life is back to normal in no time. SERVPRO is always here for you!

Resolution

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we’re people’s people, as a company that is in the business of making sure that people's homes and businesses get back to normal after a disaster we understand how stressful an event such as a fire or flood can be, disrupting your personal and professional lives. For this reason we are open 24/7, 365 days a year to ensure that you can rest easy knowing you can always call us in case of a restoration emergency. Now that we are in a new year, our resolution is to help even more people, homes, and businesses than ever before. You can even help us accomplish this goal and protect yourself at the same time by utilizing our emergency readiness plan, with this we can help you prepare for any likely disasters in your area and be ready for anything that can come your way.

What to do After a Flood in Your Business

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Floods can be miserable ordeals, even with extensive preparation. They can spring up with little to no warning and saddle you with the responsibility of a lengthy, expensive restoration period. Your business could be underwater in a flash, and you could be faced with mounting repair bills and extended interruption to your business. But floods can also be regenerative. Large-scale damage to your business is an opportunity to rebuild and minimize potential damage and disruption that could be caused by future floods. If your business has sustained flood damage, do not panic. Think of it as a chance to fortify your business against future flood damage rather than nothing but a ruinous misfortune.

All in all, it is important to remember that water damage to commercial locations can be excessively harmful because it can quickly not only damage the building but also the contents inside.  Even minor water damage can impact a business’s productivity. Depending on the magnitude of water damage, the water must be removed, the infiltrated areas cleared, and an inventory of losses drawn out.  To minimize the extent of the leak, contact SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms. With our professional expertise our SERVPRO team can look after all your water damage restoration needs. We possess the essential manpower and technology to correct problems associated with water damage on commercial and business properties.

Pack out, Pack Back and Storage with SERVPRO

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

If your business suffers water, fire, smoke or mold damage, the cleanup and restoration experts at SERVPRO are the premier choice for content restoration and pack-out.

Content Pack-Out

There are scenarios that require business content removal and relocation for prompt and thorough cleaning and restoration. If a business suffers fire and smoke damage, for example, it is often easier, more secure and cost-efficient to take certain contents to another location for restoration work.

SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms provides complete pack-out services. We will carefully and respectfully take the contents of your home or business to be restored, packed, and delivered to an off-site facility. The pack-out process involves meticulous documentation to ensure your items receive the best possible care, including photo documentation, identification numbers and detailed lists.

• Artwork
• Documents
• Books
• Photographs
• VHS and DVD media
• Clothing
• Electronics (televisions, computers, stereos, etc.)
• Furniture
• Rugs
• Retail Inventory

Storage

Meanwhile at a SERVPRO restoration location, your items are stored in a secure, climate-controlled environment. They remain there until the cleaning and restoration process is complete.

Content Pack Back

After content cleaning and restoration, items are returned to your business using the same inventory procedures and documentation employed in the pack-out process. Your items are loaded, transported and delivered with great care and then reconciled with original pack-out inventories.

Content cleaning and restoration is offered at SERVPRO locations and on select jobs and services performed. The availability and scope of content cleaning and restoration varies by location, job, insurance provider (if applicable) and other factors.

Infrastructure

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

In places like California where storms don't occur often,  the infrastructure and plumbing is not entirely ready for large scale storm flooding. There have been scenarios such ass the example that is about to be written, where the infrastructure failed and cased massive damage. This example is a case when there was a storm in Southern California and the flood waters that came from the storm filled he storm drains to a point where they went beyond capacity and cracked, this caused the flood water to flood into an apartment building nearby the affected area. This type of damage is sometimes a freak accident such as this is unavoidable, but the best thing to do is  always keep in mind that such scenarios can occur, so when disaster strikes you can act quickly. SERVPRO is always ready to help!

Hurricanes in California?

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Although California is more known for its dry and hot weather that causes fires, it’s not devoid of it’s wet season either. Although there has never been a record of a tropical hurricane making landfall in California, there have been a few close calls with huge hurricanes coming dangerously close to California's shores and breaking just before reaching land. This means that California is most likely safe from a hurricane large enough to cause severe damage reaching the homes of its citizens, but as we know, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you would rather be prepared for such a scenario, you can call SERVPRO at the number listed above and we can set you up with an emergency readiness plan that will prepare you for any kind of disaster to come.

Storm Damage Tips!!

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

What you can do until help arrives

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Commercial Storm Damage

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Damage to your commercial property due to a flood and other types of water damage can mean lost revenue and potentially, lost customers.

If your business requires water damage restoration due to broken plumbing, flooding or as a result of fire suppression, time is absolutely of the essence. That's why SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms is on call 24/7 to provide your business with a reliable lifeline when water damage restoration is needed. Let us partner with you to help minimize business interruption and get you, your employees and your customers back to business as quickly as possible.

There is a sense of urgency associated with a flood or other types of water damage. That's because fast, effective water remediation prevents the further complication of mold. At SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms, we have the labor, equipment and expertise to handle disasters both large and small, from water damage due to a plumbing leak to large loss situations due to major flooding. Our commercial water damage restoration expertise spans all industries, from retail and hospitality, to healthcare, government and industrial clients.

Water Damage Tips!!

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Before entering the affected area:

• Turn off the power
• Attempt to locate the source of water and shut it off, if possible.
• Use caution when walking on the wet floors

Once the area has been secured:

• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe furnishing dry.
• Block furnishings with pieces of wood on styrofoam. Be careful not to place anything with dye or color against damp surfaces as they may bleed.
• Lift any Window treatments off carpet, loop through a non-metal coat hanger and hang on drapery rod.
• Remove wet area rugs on other floor coverings
• Move photos, paintings and art to a safe, dry area
• Open furniture drawers, closet doors and luggage to enhance drying.
• Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry

Call a Professional Restoration Company 

• To ensure proper drying 
• To prevent possible mold growth 
• To ensure proper clean-up 
• To restore your property back to its normal state

Don't Wait On Repairs

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

If your roof is damaged on in a storm, neglecting to do repairs can result in serious damage (such as shown in the photo). In this specific case, the property had a dilapidated and old roof that blew apart from winds, then was flooded by rains.  The fault lies with failing to keep old buildings up to modern standards with repair and renovation. Mold can also develop in the affected home due to moisture, making restoration even more difficult and causing a potential living hazard. For these reasons as a property owner you must-

1. Upkeep and renovate your property as to avoid such issues.
2. Call for help immediately as the longer you wait, the worse the issue will get.

Whenever you suspect your roof is damaged or that you may have water damage from recent rains, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms at (310) 801-3312.

How To Get Rid Of The Fire Smoke Smell

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

After a fire, the cleanup can seem like a never-ending process. Beyond repairs for items burnt, soot-covered or damaged by water from firefighting efforts, there's the question of how to get smoke smell out of the house. Whether your home has suffered smoke damage from a house fire or from the effects of a wildfire, SERVPRO professionals have the expertise and know-how to get rid of smoke smell in the house quickly and effectively.

Fire smoke infiltrates all areas of a home. It can seep into carpeting, furniture, clothing, draperies, books and even woodwork. Removing fire smoke smell from a home is a process best left to the professionals with the expertise, specialized equipment, and ability to work safely within your home without causing further damage. Often homeowners attempt to dissipate smoke smell with spray deodorizers and scented candles. These tactics only mask the odor of smoke and won't remove it from the home. Smoke particles bury themselves into fabrics, fibers, and other porous surfaces. In order to remove smoke smell completely, items need to be deeply cleaned.

CLEANING

 Essentially everything in a home affected by fire smoke needs to be cleaned. Some items may only require thorough airing to remove smoke smell, but most items like carpeting, rugs, curtains, upholstery, and clothing will need a thorough cleaning and possible sanitization. If the items also are soot-covered, we recommend to handle the item as little as possible and trust it’s cleaning to a professional to prevent further damage. When working out how to get fire smoke smell out of house carpets and upholstery, trust the cleaning experts at SERVPRO for the job. We'll make sure the smoke smell and ash residue are completely removed from deep within the fibers and fabrics. Wash down all hard surfaces with a mild detergent and water — this includes painted surfaces, baseboards, doors, window frames/sills and the outside and interiors of all cabinets and drawers.

Safety Tip: Never eat any food or allow pets to eat food that has been exposed to fire smoke.

Fire safety, But For Kids!!

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Fire safety is one of the most important procedures to know for possible emergencies. Adults may already know what’s important and the do’s and don'ts in a fire emergency but children may not be so knowledgeable, here are some fire safety tips to make sure your young ones know! 

• Smoke detectors - what they are for, how they work and the sound that they make is crucial knowledge for a child so that they know to associate the alarm with a fire emergency. 
• Escape routes - Knowing the best possible way to get away from a potentially dangerous area during a fire is very important.
• Practice opening windows - Knowing how to quickly open a window in an emergency is important to teach your young ones so they are better prepared to quickly act in an emergency.
• Touch the door and check for heat - A fire raging on the other side of a door is a huge danger, teaching children to check a doorknob for the heat of a fire is important as the fire could spread faster if the door is opened.

 Use these tips to make sure your children are properly prepared for a fire emergency.

Faster Than The disaster

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

When a big disaster strikes, you need a company that can handle all the work in a well organized and efficient manner. Here at SERVPRO we cut out the middle men and we are your one and final stop for any size remediation job. We can handle anything from a small leak in a home to a multi-unit and multi-level commercial building that has flooded entirely just for example. If you are the owner or resident of a large scale commercial building that has had the misfortune of having a disaster in need of remediation, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO and we’ll provide you with the best service that you can possibly receive. Our contact information can be found on our webpage above and we are open to calls and responses 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Mold In Commercial Buildings

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

It may come as a surprise but mold can be severe enough to condemn entire buildings. This has been the case with many types of commercial buildings that can be susceptible to mold because of the nature of the service or capacity they provide, for example refrigerated or special warehouses and buildings that have moist air. Other issues that can cause large scale mold are things such as leaky pipes, flooding, organic materials, or faulty basement sealing. Although a majority of the time most buildings will notice and remediate mold before it becomes so severe that the building would have to be condemned but in certain cases the mold is not as noticeable and causes large scale damage before being serviced.  To prevent these types of issues be weary of the conditions that cause mold and where it can occur.

Risks Of The Job

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Some jobs are quite dangerous due to their nature or the nature of their remediation. For example, a mold remediation job most of the time requires that the affected areas are sprayed with bleach and other chemicals harmful or hazardous to human health. When this process is done on a large scale we have to ensure the safety of our technicians so we ensure they wear the proper protective materials such as light or heavy hazmat suits and air filtration masks that seal the body off from harmful chemicals. These measures are also taken in bio-hazard jobs where there might be contaminated bodily fluids or raw sewage that pose serious health risks if consumed in any way. If you have any questions in general or about our safety procedures don’t hesitate to give us a call at the number listed above.

SERVPRO Makes Sure the Job is Done

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

When SERVPRO finishes a reconstruction or remediation job, we don't just leave you to clean the aftermath. In construction once the floors and drywall are up, we clean the area to properly prepare for interior design and painting. Construction can also possibly trap moisture in the building. To ensure this doesn't pose any future issues we dehumidify and dry the areas with drying equipment. Finally we provide a service to clients to make sure they are ready to open their doors with the confidence it looks good as new. This includes carpet, floor, wall, fixture, and duct cleaning. 

We strive to help our clients until the very end to ensure that they are beyond impressed with the finished product. 

SERVPRO will make sure it looks like "It Never Even Happened".

Fire Safety

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO knows that fire related emergencies can seem like they are very easy to prevent, but you would be surprised to see what other precautions you can be taking.  Some of the most common causes of fires include; cooking, candles, heating equipment, fire places, electrical appliances, smoking, flammable liquids, Christmas trees, etc. to name a few. Below we have a list of recommendations we have to prevent fires. 

• Never leave a stove top in use unattended
• Use a cooking timer
• Keep any & all kitchen surfaces (including ceiling) free from grease build up
• Place heaters at a safe distance away from flammable materials & disconnect when not in use
• Avoid plugging in too many electrical appliances into one extension cord
• Keep candles away from curtains, decorations and other combustibles, and make sure candle holders are stable or simply use battery operated candles
• If possible, smoke outside. If you smoke inside, avoid doing so when tired/sleepy, and use large and deep ashtrays
• Keep flammable liquids in approved containers and away from electrical and heat sources. If possible, store them outside in a well-ventilated area.
• Use decorative lights that have been inspected by an independent testing laboratory. In addition, replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections
• Install smoke alarms
• Install carbon monoxide detectors
• Install a fire sprinkler system
• Install a fire extinguisher

Protect Your Home From Heavy Rain and Flooding

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms has released these tips on how to protect homes from heavy rain and flooding: 

• Check for basement leaks – take a few minutes this weekend to inspect both the interior and exterior of your home’s foundation, walls, floors and windows for any cracks that may have developed during the winter months. Even a minor crack can lead to major water damage during a heavy spring shower. You can use a basic waterproof epoxy and a paintbrush or putty knife to patch any small cracks you find.

• Inspect sump pumps – a sump pump removes water that accumulates underneath a home and is one of the best defenses against flooded basements and subsequent costly repairs. All too often, though, homeowners don’t find out their sump pump is not working properly until it’s too late and spring showers are already wreaking havoc on your home. It is recommended that you inspect your sump pump each spring to ensure it’s working properly.

• Clean gutters and downspouts – leaves and debris from spring storms can lead to clogged gutters and downspouts, and the number one cause of basement flooding is roofs not draining properly. Cleaning your gutters each spring is an inexpensive way to make sure your home is ready for the rain to come. Also, check that downspouts extend away from the home’s foundation by at least three feet, this will help effectively move rain water away from the home.

• Consider back-flow valves – sewer back-flow valves are small, inexpensive parts that are installed in sewer drainage lines to help regulate water flow. These small valves can save big headaches by preventing sewer water from entering a basement during heavy rain and go a long way to making your basement flood proof.

Packout

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO we believe our job is to make the whole process as smooth as possible. We offer a pack out service to accomplish this goal. A pack out is the practice of collecting a clients belongings out of there home or property for safekeeping so they are not affected by the disaster they may be experiencing whether it be water or fire. We store all the belongings safely in crates in out warehouse until the job is finished. This saves our clients from the overly expensive costs of storage units and moving costs along with possible further damage to their belongings. We also offer specialized cleaning for certain materials that require a deeper, more specific cleaning. This is just another reason why you should choose SERVPRO to make sure your needs are met in a cost effective and safe way. 

Get to Know Mold

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Mold isn't always the toxic crazy dangerous mold you hear about. Mold is generally non-toxic and not always harmful. If mold is left unchecked to grow in your home or business it can become harmful in large amounts. Mold already exists in homes just at a microscopic level. When the area experiences water damage from leaks or floods it can trigger the mold to grow. This is when the mold growth can get problematic. Mold spores grow in humid environments. SERVPRO has tips to help prevent mold growth. 

• make sure your home's roof is sufficiently protected from rain
• make sure to fix any leaks in your home
• make sure your appliances are not malfunctioning

If you do discover a mold related issue make sure to call SERVPRO.

Heavy Rain and What it Brings

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

In the U.S. especially in areas of heavy rains, Flash floods pose a risk on homes and businesses. Heavy rains can cause ash floods, mud flows, or even cause debris to damage properties. Here at SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms we have some tips to help protect your home or business from suffering from extensive damage.

• Purchase flood insurance so your property is covered in case of a flood emergency.
• Install gutter systems to insure water flows off of your property, and clean them regularly.
• Fix any leaks in your property immediately.
• Possibly install extra roof protection such as a rubber liner or a waterproof barrier that goes under the shingles of your roof.

With these tips your property should be ready for any rainy season and save you possibly thousands on damages and repairs!

Differences in Fire Damage

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen damaged by fire

Fire damage is almost always devastating, regardless of size and damage. An important thing to know though is the type of fire damage you may have endured. SERVPRO is always here to help in any way we can, even if it's just to educate the community. If you take a good look at the picture here from a past job you can see that this home suffered a major loss due to a house fire. There's damage from smoke, soot, and ash on the walls leaving a black layer and a strong odor. There's regular physical damage that fire tends to cause when something is directly touched or set on fire. Something many people may not realize though is the water damage that comes with a fire. Anytime the fire department is called to battle a fire you can count on water damage from the fire hoses. If the home is left long enough with the water soaking into the furniture, carpets, flooring and everything else in the home, mold can form. If your home suffers a loss from a fire, don't wait! Call SERVPRO to come and get the job done.

What To Do After Flooding

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

When you encounter flooding SERVPRO has some procedures we recommend doing. First off before even beginning this process you should assess whether its even safe to stay in the home, are their electrical poles that have fallen from the flooding that has direct contact with your home? Also note that water is very heavy, one gallon of water weighs 8.345 pounds. Don't overexert yourself trying to move furniture because wet furniture is a lot heavier then you would think. We recommend attempting to remove excess water by mopping, wiping  excess water from wood furniture, remove wet upholstery and cushions, turn on A/C for maximum drying, remove colored rugs so dyes don't bleed and remove art objects and personal possessions with sentimental value. We also encourage people to NOT leave wet fabrics in place, don't leave books or other colored items on wet carpet or floors, don't use a household vacuum to remove water and don't use household appliances or ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet.

What To Do If You Encounter Biohazard Contaminents

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Biohazard contaminents are very dangerous and can pose serious health risks. SERVPRO prides itself on the expertise of our teams in how to safely deal with these issues while using their training, protective gear and special equipment that homeowners don't have. Two f the most common biohazard scenarios encountered are sewer backups and flood water. If you encounter any type of hazardous contaminants its important to decide whether its safe to stay in the house. We encourage our customers to try and stay out of the areas affected and call emergency service personnel. SERVPRO has a 24 hour call service and will always be there to help, do not hesitate to call.  Our experts will come and assist you as soon as possible to ensure your safety along with your home's safety. 

Emergencies Are Not Planned

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to deal with your Fire and water related restoration needs. The incident that can cause such an issue can happen at any time and are often unexpected. A broken pipe, flash flood, electrical fire and so much more can occur when you are least expecting it. That's why our team at SERVPRO holds pride in the fact that we make ourselves available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We offer these emergency services to ensure that our clients receive the best professional treatment out there. we believe in the importance of making our customers happy. Our team of experts understands what you may be going through and are here to deal with all types of disaster damage. There's nothing our expert technicians can't take on. Don't hesitate, give us a call!