Understanding Mold Removal: How Long Does It Typically Take?

5/22/2023 (Permalink)

Understanding mold removal is important to ensure your property is protected from mold damage.

Mold is a common problem in many homes, and it's important to address it promptly to prevent further damage to your home. If you have mold in your home, you may be wondering how long it will take to remove it. In this blog, we will explore the factors that can impact the length of time it takes to remove mold from your home.

Factors Affecting Mold Removal Time

The length of time it takes to remove mold from your home can vary depending on several factors.

The size and extent of the mold infestation will impact how long it takes to remove the mold. If the mold is limited to a small area, it may only take a few days to remove. However, if the mold has spread to multiple areas of your home or if there is a large amount of mold present, it may take longer to remove.

Type of Mold

Different types of mold require different removal methods, and some types of mold are more difficult to remove than others. For example, black mold can be particularly difficult to remove and may require more extensive remediation measures.

Remediation Methods

The methods used to remove the mold will impact how long it takes to complete the remediation process. For example, if the mold is removed using traditional methods such as scrubbing and cleaning, it may take longer than if more advanced methods such as dry ice blasting or ozone treatment are used.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors such as temperature and humidity can impact the length of time it takes to remove mold. Higher temperatures and humidity levels can promote the growth of mold, which can make the removal process take longer.

Accessibility

The accessibility of the mold can impact how long it takes to remove it. If the mold is in hard-to-reach areas, it may take longer to remove.

How Long Does Mold Removal Typically Take?

The length of time it takes to remove mold from your home will vary depending on the factors outlined above. In general, mold removal can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. However, it's important to note that the length of time it takes to remove the mold is less important than ensuring that the mold is completely removed.

Mold removal professionals typically follow a specific process to remove mold from your home assessing the extent of the mold infestation. 

Containing the mold to prevent it from spreading
Removing the mold using appropriate methods
Cleaning and disinfecting the affected areas
Conducting post-remediation testing to ensure that all mold has been removed

Mold removal is an important process that should be taken seriously to prevent further damage to your home. The length of time it takes to remove mold from your home will vary depending on several factors, including the size and scope of the infestation, the type of mold, the remediation methods used, environmental factors, and accessibility. It's important to work with a qualified mold removal professional to ensure that the mold is completely removed and that your home is safe for you and your family.

Smoke-Free Home: Tips for Avoiding Cigarette Fires and Keeping Your Family Safe

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

Avoid smoking indoors to avoid a house fire

Cigarette fires are a serious risk for any home with smokers, and can cause devastating damage and loss of life. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), smoking materials, including cigarettes, are the leading cause of home fire deaths in the United States, and the second leading cause of home fires overall. Here are some tips for avoiding cigarette fires in your home.

The simplest way to avoid cigarette fires in your home is to avoid smoking indoors altogether. Designate a specific area outside, away from any flammable materials or structures, where you can smoke safely. Not only will this reduce the risk of fire, but it will also improve the indoor air quality in your home.

Use ashtrays

If you must smoke indoors, use a sturdy, deep ashtray that is made of a non-combustible material, such as ceramic or metal. Avoid using plastic or glass ashtrays, as they can melt or break if they come into contact with a hot cigarette. Make sure the ashtray is placed on a flat, stable surface, and never leave a lit cigarette unattended.

Extinguish cigarettes properly

Always make sure your cigarette is completely extinguished before disposing of it. This means using water or sand to fully extinguish the cigarette, not just tapping it into an ashtray. If you are smoking outdoors, avoid throwing cigarettes on the ground, as they can easily start a grass or brush fire.

Keep cigarettes away from flammable materials

Keep cigarettes, lighters, and matches away from anything that can easily catch fire, such as bedding, furniture, or curtains. Make sure there are no loose papers or other flammable materials near your smoking area.

Install smoke detectors

Make sure your home is equipped with working smoke detectors on every level, including the basement and attic. Test them regularly, and replace the batteries at least once a year. Smoke detectors can provide early warning of a fire, giving you and your family more time to escape.

Be alert

Never smoke if you are feeling drowsy, intoxicated, or otherwise impaired. If you fall asleep while smoking, you could easily start a fire without even realizing it. Keep a close eye on lit cigarettes, and make sure they are fully extinguished before you go to bed.

By following these simple tips, you can reduce the risk of cigarette fires in your home and keep your family and property safe. Remember, smoking is a serious health risk, and the best way to protect yourself and those around you is to quit smoking altogether. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor or a qualified smoking cessation counselor.

4 Signs Your Toilet Needs to Be Replaced

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

Replace a toilet leaking to prevent future water damage.

When it comes to the bathroom, we have a lot of feelings. We want our toilet to be clean and functional. In order for that to happen, you need a toilet that's in good working order. If your toilet is old, cracked or broken, or not flushing properly—it's time for a replacement! The first step in replacing your toilet is knowing what signs indicate it's time for a new one.

Why it's important to replace the toilet

The toilet is a necessary fixture in any home, but if it's not properly maintained or replaced when necessary, it can cause serious damage and cost you money. Replacing your toilet is an investment that will pay off in the long run.

Here are some reasons why:

• Not replacing your toilet can lead to leaks and cracks in the floor around it. This can result in expensive repairs or even damage to surrounding walls and floors if left untreated for too long.
• The condition of your existing plumbing system affects how much water is used each day--and this means that if there are leaks from old pipes or fixtures around them, then this will increase how much water you use each day, leading to a higher water bill.

The toilet is old

Older toilets can be a source of frustration, especially if they're causing problems. If your toilet is more than 15 years old and has never been repaired or replaced, there's a good chance that it needs to be replaced.

Old toilets can be difficult to fix due to their age and design--it's not uncommon for older models not to have any parts available anymore. A malfunctioning toilet may also require expensive repairs like replacing major parts like the tank or bowl. Even if you're able to find replacement parts for your out-of-date model, repairing an old toilet could wind up costing more than simply buying a new one would have cost in the first place!

In addition to being expensive and difficult, older models aren't energy efficient either; many older designs use more water per flush than newer ones do today--and since more households are concerned about conserving resources these days, this could impact them financially by increasing their monthly bills.

The toilet is cracked or broken

If your toilet is cracked or broken, it's time to replace it. A cracked or broken bowl could lead to leaking and flooding. If you have a cracked tank, bacteria can get into the cracks and cause foul odors that are difficult to remove from your bathroom. The same goes for broken flanges (the metal rings that hold your toilet onto its base), seats, and lids--if one of these parts breaks off completely, you'll need new ones before using your bathroom again!

The toilet is wobbling

If you notice your toilet rocking or wobbling, it could be a sign that some bolts are loose. Loose toilet bolts can cause all kinds of problems. If there's not enough support under the base of your toilet, then it may rock or wobble when someone sits on it. You should also check to see if there are any cracks in the porcelain around where the bowl meets with the floor or tank.

A wobbling toilet could also indicate a bigger problem, such as damage to the floor beneath the toilet. Damage underneath the toilet can occur if a leak is present, causing the flooring to rot or warp.

The toilet isn't flushing properly

If you notice that the toilet isn't flushing properly, it's time to replace it. This can be caused by a number of things:

• The bowl is clogged
• The tank is leaking water
• The flapper is worn-out or damaged
• The rim jets are blocked

Replacing your toilet will make your bathroom look better, function better, and prevent water damage too!

If your toilet is older than ten years, it's time to replace it. If you have an old or cracked toilet with signs of water damage, consider replacing it immediately! A new toilet will not only look better but also function much better than an old one. If you notice any wobbling or if your family members complain about how often they have to flush because the bowl does not flush properly anymore--then these are signs that show there may be problems with your current system's ability to handle waste efficiently.

Replacing your toilet is one of the easiest ways to improve your bathroom. It will look better, function better and save you money in the long run by preventing water damage too!

Testing your Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms

2/17/2023 (Permalink)

Ensure your business is safe, install and test smoke detectors and fire alarms regularly.

Don't let the thought of smoke detectors and fire alarms keep you up at night. Testing your smoke alarms is just one of many safety practices that can help you sleep well. In fact, smoke alarm malfunctions are one of the most common reasons homes go up in flames.

Smoke Alarms should be placed on every level of the home

Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of the home, including the basement. They should also be located in each bedroom, or hallway.

If you have a fireplace or wood stove, check to see if there is an automatic shutoff switch connected to your smoke alarm. If so, this will stop air from circulating through your house when there is a fire in your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

Test your Smoke Alarms Regularly

Test your smoke alarms and fire alarms regularly. It's a good idea to test them monthly. When you're testing your smoke alarm, do it when your family or employees are there so you can discuss any questions someone might have for evacuation planning.

Test them again right before leaving town for an extended period of time like Thanksgiving or Christmas break so that if something happens while you're gone (like burglars breaking in), there'll be no delay in getting help by calling 911.

Replace Alarms

If there is any doubt your smoke detectors or fire alarms are going to malfunction, it would be smart to look into replacement options. If you’re replacing your smoke detectors and fire alarms, it’s important to remember that new models are equipped with 10-year batteries. This will help ensure that your devices are working properly for the next decade. It’s also essential for the safety of your family and home.

After installing a new device, you should test it by pressing its test button or pulling on its test strip (if there is one). If there is no indication that the smoke detector or fire alarm has been activated after five minutes, contact a professional to inspect them for possible issues.

Ensuring your family or business is safe, it is important to test your smoke detectors and fire alarms regularly to keep your them safe. If you are in need of more information, contact a professional fire alarm specialist. 

Take These Actions if You Suspect a Gas Leak

12/7/2022 (Permalink)

A gas leak can be a dangerous situation that can have serious repercussions for everyone involved.

Take These Actions if You Suspect a Gas Leak

A gas leak can be a frightening situation and is one that needs to be addressed immediately. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to identify and address the problem, as well as ensure your own safety and that of others around you. Here’s what you need to know about gas leaks:

Knowing the Signs

In the event that you suspect a gas leak, it is important to know what to do next. A gas leak can happen for many reasons, including:

• A hole in the pipe or tank
• Damage from an earthquake
• An old pipe that has not been properly maintained or replaced over time. 

While it might be difficult to determine if there is actually a gas leak based on your senses alone, especially if you don't have experience with smelling natural gas, there are certain signs that can help alert you that one may be present. These include:

• A strong odor not normally associated with your Glendale, AZ home 
• Fumes escaping under doors or windows  
• A whistling noise coming from vents on appliances

If you've had any recent repairs done on your plumbing system, it might be worth looking into whether those repairs were done correctly; if they weren't properly completed, this could have caused your pipes to become damaged over time and led to them leaking natural gas into your home—a very serious concern!

Monitoring for Airborne Poison and Other Dangerous Gas Leaks

If you suspect a gas leak, call 911 immediately. Next, find the building's utility shutoff valve and turn it off. This will stop the flow of gas from your building to the main pipe and ensure that no more carbon monoxide enters your home or business until repairs can be made.

If another person is exposed to the leak, bring them inside as quickly as possible and call 911 immediately after doing so. If necessary, give them fresh air until help arrives. Do not leave them alone at any point during this process: they may require medical attention afterwards!

The purpose of this article is to help you learn the signs of a gas leak and understand the dangers associated with one gas leaks. A gas leak can be a dangerous situation that can have serious repercussions for everyone involved. Hopefully, with these tips and information on how you should react in an emergency situation, you will feel more confident knowing what actions to take next time something like this happens.

How Do You EstimateThe Cost Of Cleanup And Restoration After A Fire?

10/26/2022 (Permalink)

If your business has been affected by a fire, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local SERVPRO.

How Do You Calculate The Cost Of Fire Cleanup And Restoration?

Estimating the damage done by a fire in your home or business in Phoenix, AZ, is never easy. It's not just about getting rid of the smoke, soot, and water—it's about restoring your property to its pre-fire condition. So, how do you estimate the cost of fire damage?

What is a fire damage estimate?

A fire damage estimate is a written document that estimates the cost of repairing a home after a fire. When you receive your Fire Claim from your insurance company, they will send an adjuster to inspect the property. This person will take photographs and measurements so that he or she can prepare an accurate estimate for you. The adjuster may ask you questions about your belongings so that all your possessions are accounted for in their report (for example: “How many pairs of jeans do you have?”).

How does it work?

Once the adjuster has finished collecting all necessary evidence and information about what happened at your residence, he or she will begin calculating how much each item would cost if he or she had to replace it with new items. This process is called replacement value. If something was irreplaceable—like family heirlooms—and cannot be replaced by purchasing another exact replica, then its value will be determined based on what someone might pay for it at auction or other means.

The Steps of Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration

Assessing the Fire and Smoke Damage

Fire damage is a complex and multi-faceted process. The first step to assessing the fire and smoke damage is to determine what’s salvageable, which can be done by looking at each item individually. Next, you should tarp and board up your property so that outside factors don’t damage your property. After that, the damage needs to be cleaned up before the restoration can begin. 

Tarping and Boarding Up Your Property

If you have a residential property, it’s important to begin tarping and boarding up windows, doors, and other openings on your house. This can help prevent damage from rainwater and wind erosion. The most effective way to board up your windows is going to be with plywood. 

Usually, a fire cleanup and restoration specialist will offer tarping and board-up services!

Fire Cleanup Services

After the fire, your property will be a mess. The fire department will have left it in shambles, soaked and charred. You need to hire a company that specializes in cleaning up after fires to restore your home back to its pre-fire condition as soon as possible.

Fire restoration specialists will remove all the debris and contaminants from your property, including ash and soot stains that may not be visible at first glance. They'll also clean and disinfect the premises so there's no chance of bacteria or mold spreading around through air or dust particles left behind after cleanup efforts are complete.

Once everything has been removed from inside your house (including furniture), they can begin repairing affected areas such your floors, walls, and ceilings. Some companies, like SERVPRO of Northwest Phoenix, also offer content restoration services as well.

The Fire Restoration Phase

The final step in the process is known as the fire restoration phase. This is when the property is cleaned and restored to its pre-fire condition. Depending on how much damage was caused by a fire, and how long it takes for your insurance company to process your claim, this can take several weeks. In some cases, you may need to stay at another home or hotel until repairs are completed.

If your home or business has been affected by a fire, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We can help you through every step of the process. Our team has years of experience in assessing and repairing damaged properties, and we always treat our customers with respect, compassion, and honesty.

Required PPE for Mold Remediation

8/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professional checking for moisture

Required PPE for Mold Remediation

When you discover mold damage at your home in Phoenix, AZ, it’s not something to take lightly. Mold is sneaky and can quickly spread throughout your home before you realize it’s there. This is why it’s critical that the proper personal protective equipment, such as face masks and coveralls, is worn during the remediation. It not only protects the cleanup crew, but it also helps to avoid cross-contamination into unaffected areas.

1. Hair Covers

During mold remediation job, everyone in the affected area should cover their hair with disposable hair covers. Mold spores will be floating through the air throughout the process, getting trapped in workers’ hair. This is a significant risk for cross-contamination of mold to other areas of the home.

2. Eye Protection

Safety glasses or goggles must be worn to protect the eyes during mold cleanup. Not only will mold spores be traveling through the air, but also dust and debris. For a smaller cleaning job, workers might wear safety glasses. However, for a larger job, they’ll wear safety goggles that provide additional protection.

3. Masks

Face masks are the most essential article of PPE for restoration professionals. Different levels of protection are available. N-95 is the minimum level appropriate for mold, filtering at least 95% of airborne particles. N-99 and N-100 respirator masks will filter at least 99% and 99.97% of airborne particles, respectively.

4. Coveralls

Disposable coveralls are typically worn over clothes to avoid cross-contamination. They can be removed and disposed of before going into the unaffected areas of the house.

5. Gloves

Disposable gloves (e.g., latex gloves) are used for cleaning mold damage. Just as with the other disposable PPE, they need to be removed and thrown away before leaving the scene. They’ll be replaced by new gloves upon return.

6. Shoe Covers

Disposable shoe covers will be worn during the remediation process to keep from tracking mold and other debris from the affected area to unaffected areas.

Mold remediation can be complicated and requires specialized equipment. Face masks and other PPE are a vital part of this process.

How Leaky Toilets Can Cause Bigger Problems

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Pay close attention to determine from where the water is leaking

A leaking toilet is a common household problem, so you might think it is an easy fix. In some cases, you are right, but in other situations, you might need some help. Here are some common reasons toilets leak and how they can lead to bigger issues that require a professional.

Reasons Toilets Leak

The way to inspect a leaky commode is to flush it. Pay close attention to determine from where the water is leaking. Where the water comes from and pools can lead you to diagnose some of these common problems:

• Cracks in the tank
• Loose tank bolts
• Loose or damaged supply lines
• A dry wax ring
• A broken flange

These are just a few issues that can lead to water on your bathroom floor.

Deciding If You Can Fix It Yourself

Starting from the top of your toilet and working your way down is an easy, systematic way to check for leaks. Some fixes only require a wrench and a few new parts. Water lines, wax rings and other toilet components are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace. However, if you get to the bottom and only just discovered where the water is coming from, there could be more serious issues than just a leaking toilet.

Dealing With Water Damage

Until you have the toilet unbolted from the floor and see what is going on underneath it, you won’t be sure just how bad the situation is. If a commode has been leaking for a long time, there could be severe water damage to your floor and the subfloor underneath. Evidence of soft floors and rot is serious, and it is best to call water damage professionals in cases where the structure of your home might be compromised by a bathroom leak.
If you find yourself with a leaking toilet, assess the severity of the situation, and decide if you need to call a local water damage company in Phoenix, AZ to check it out.

How To Lower Business Interruption Insurance Loss

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Business interruption insurance can help your business and your employees during a shutdown due to an emergency or disaster

Know How To Lower Your Business Interruption Insurance Loss

In the event your business in Phoenix, AZ, suffers water damage from flooding due to a broken pipe or other unexpected disaster, your business may not be functional until things are repaired and restored. Business owners often plan ahead with insurance to physically repair their business in case of disaster, but don't plan for how to financially stay afloat while the business is closed down. Business interruption insurance can help with operating expenses while you are focused on recovery.

What Is Covered

Business interruption insurance can help your business and your employees during a shutdown due to an emergency or disaster. It provides for the following financial necessities during a temporary closure:

• Lost net income based on your financial records
• Mortgage, rent, and lease payments
• Loan payments
• Taxes
• Employee payroll

What Is Not Covered

Business insurance does not cover everything. The primary purpose is to keep the business financially above water during a temporary closure. Items and damages covered by other types of insurance policies will not be covered on a business interruption claim. In light of recent events, it is important to note that business interruption insurance does not apply to shutdowns due to pandemics, viruses, or communicable diseases. The following damages are not covered:

• Broken items resulting from a covered event or loss
• Damages caused by flooding or earthquakes, which are covered by a separate policy
• Undocumented income not listed in your business' financial records
• Utilities

Lower Your Loss

While business interruption insurance doesn't cover the actual physical damages caused by flooding, those damages are often covered by other insurance. Large water damage often requires extensive cleanup and repairs. The best way to lower your business interruption insurance loss is to get your business back up and running as soon as safely possible. A quick recovery aided by a restoration specialist will lower the claim on your business interruption insurance. They can often work with you and your insurance company to get started on recovery without much delay.

How to Estimate Fire Damage to a Business

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a restaurant in Phoenix, AZ.

How to Estimate Fire Damage to a Business

Fires are one of the most common disasters to strike businesses. Fortunately, most fires in Phoenix, AZ, are small and easily dealt with. However, every year in the U.S., there are over 100,000 fires, with fire damage losses to commercial properties exceeding $2.4 billion annually.
Generally, the damage estimate is done by either the insurance adjuster or a qualified Preferred Vendor. In most cases, it’s in your interest to choose a restoration expert to make a solid appraisal based on the damage and circumstances.

The Factors in the Assessment

By far the largest factor in your estimate is the amount of damage. Three areas of damage are examined:

• Smoke damage
• Heat damage
• Water damage
  
  

If the commercial fire was tiny, put out immediately and the soot is contained in a small area, you may be able to clean it yourself. If you need a restoration specialist for very small jobs, the cost may not exceed your insurance deductible.

A Good Time To Have Fire Insurance

If the fire damage is widespread, you’ll need to make an insurance claim. If you don’t have insurance, your restoration expert may find you low-cost options to reduce the sting. In widespread fires like wildfires, there may be disaster grants available, too.

Insurance Adjusters and Restoration Specialists

Insurance companies and restoration experts work closely together to ensure high-quality standards, but each may have different goals. When you choose an experienced commercial fire damage restoration company to do the assessment, their goal will be to get you the highest-quality restoration.

In many cases, items can be restored instead of replaced. This can help keep a place looking more authentic, along with saving items that you’d prefer to keep. The fire mitigation company will have a much better idea about what their custom soot and smoke cleanup solvents will be able to save and what must be replaced.

The estimate process should be transparent, and you should ask any questions that arise as it’s explained to you. With reputable companies, you’ll get a rock-solid estimation and can quickly start to rebuild your business.

Why a Mold Inspection Is Necessary Before You Purchase a Building

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

A mold inspection is necessary for your building

Why Is a Mold Inspection Required Before Purchasing a Building?

Smart investors know that their decision to purchase a commercial building hinges upon its inspection results. A mold inspection is necessary when considering buying a building near a flood zone in Phoenix, AZ.

Where Can Mold Grow?

After a flood, immediate water extraction is critical for preventing mold formation, but it may not be enough to prevent a mold problem. Although it is not always possible to detect mold with the naked eye, visible mold is usually an indication that mold exists in the following areas:

• Behind drywall
• Under floorboards
• Behind ceiling tile
• In the air

If the building you consider purchasing has experienced a flood, the chance of mold existing in these areas rises.

How Can an Inspection Help?

If you have a sound rationale for purchasing a building based upon location, price, and future profits, investing in a mold inspection might make sense. If mold exists, you may find that a mold remediation specialist can contain it to make your intended use for the property feasible and eliminate future problems. On the other hand, if the inspection substantially raises the amount you are willing to invest in the property, you might choose to forfeit its purchase.

How To Prevent Future Mold Growth?

Every commercial property has some degree of mold, and it is impossible to eliminate it; however, this doesn't mean that a building you purchase will always have a mold problem. You can take measures to reduce the humidity levels including, running dehumidifiers, avoiding and repairing leaky pipes, promptly repairing roof damage and cleaning HVAC coils and drip pans. It is also helpful to schedule periodic property walk-throughs to help detect potential problems before they become large issues that are costly to resolve.

When a mold inspection reveals mold in a building you are planning to purchase, managing it through minor repairs or costly reconstruction can affect your purchase decision.

Storm Preparation Tips for Property Managers

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

If the damage is bad, call SERVPRO.

How Do You Prepare For A Storm?

Management of commercial property in Phoenix, AZ comes with quite a few responsibilities. One of the most important of those tasks is storm preparedness, particularly if you live in an area that experiences frequent hurricanes or other storms. It is your duty as a manager to make sure your information, property, and people are all protected in an emergency situation.

Protecting Your Information

While it's a smart idea to back up all your files in a remote location on a regular basis anyway, doing so has extra benefits during storm season. There are several key pieces of information that you will need to be able to access when disaster strikes:

• List of emergency phone numbers
• Contact information for trusted storm restoration specialists
• Storm preparation plan of action
• Emergency contact list for all employees and residents, including information about children and pets
• Business continuity plan outline
• Essential financial information, such as bank routing numbers
  
  

Your storm preparedness plan should include access to all the files you need to continue operations. Don't let damage to your building get in the way of your business.

Protecting Your Property

One of the first calls you should make after your building suffers storm damage is to your insurance company. The more quickly you report a problem, the more quickly an adjuster can come out and survey the damage done. Key members of the property management team should accompany the adjuster to point out issues discovered during their own inspection so that nothing gets overlooked.

Protecting Your People

When you manage a residential property, your primary concern after a storm is the safety and security of your residents. They have been through an ordeal and are likely going to need your support. As the property manager, it is important for you to have a system in place to communicate consistently with all parties affected by the displacement. Having a plan in mind for evacuation and temporary housing can help improve a bad situation.

Having a storm preparedness plan is essential. It's not enough to protect your commercial property. You also must protect the people it serves.

What You Should Know About Water Damage and Your Insurance Policy

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

While a flood in your home can cause a lot of worry, the claims process can go more smoothly if you take the appropriate actions.

Water Damage And Your Insurance Policy: What You Should Know

If a pipe breaks in your Peoria, AZ home and causes water to flood your home, the good news is that this will most likely be covered by your homeowners insurance. While this is usually a covered peril, however, there are some exceptions. The following are a few questions that you might have regarding your policy.

1. When is Damage Covered by Insurance?

When you experience water damage from a broken or leaky pipe, the cost of resulting damage will likely be covered. If the flood is the result of a broken pipe caused by freezing weather or a sudden accident, this will usually be included in your policy. However, you will often be required to pay for any costs related to repairing and replacing the pipe.

2. When is Damage Not Covered by Insurance?

If the insurance company believes that the pipe has broken as a result of your own negligence, then you will likely be denied insurance coverage. This can happen if you have not taken proper precautions to prevent freezing pipes during cold weather or if you have failed to maintain your home. You may also be required to pay for damages if you wait too long to contact your insurance company and the damage has worsened in the meantime.

3. What Should You Do When You Discover the Damage?

To prevent your insurance company from denying your claim, you should be sure to contact them as soon as possible. You should also hire a water damage remediation company to fix the broken pipe and do any necessary repairs in your home. While you wait for workers to arrive, you can begin documenting the damage and making temporary repairs to prevent water from spreading.

While a flood in your home can cause a lot of worry, the claims process can go more smoothly if you take the appropriate actions. Performing regular maintenance on your home can prevent problems and will make it easier to be approved for coverage if an accident does happen.

Vulnerable Areas of Your Property in a Winter Storm

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Storms can happen when you least expect it. SERVPRO has teams ready to respond 24/7/365. Contact us about your storm restoration emergency.

During A Winter Storm, Look For Vulnerable Areas On Your Property.

The damage that can occur due to a winter storm can be obvious at times, but at other times, it can be subtle. You may not notice it at first unless you are specifically looking for it. If you do have storm damage, you have only a limited time to file an insurance claim, so it is best to inspect your residential property in Anthem, AZ , and file any necessary claims as soon as you can.

Specific areas of vulnerability around your property include the following:

• Trees
• Gutters and siding
• Roof

You should inspect these areas carefully as soon as possible after a storm.

Trees

Overgrown tree limbs can break due to the high winds, heavy snows, and ice buildup that often accompany a blizzard. A fallen tree limb can cause damage to your roof, your vehicle, and anyone who happens to be standing underneath at the time that it falls. Keep in mind, however, that a tree limb may break off during a storm but not fall for some months afterward. Therefore, it is best to be proactive in inspecting trees for damage and having broken limbs removed.

Gutters and Siding

The exterior of your home is built to stand up to a lot of punishment from the weather. Nevertheless, factors present during a winter storm, such as ice, moisture, and high winds, can strip the siding or gutters from your home. Be sure to inspect any possible damage, and be sure to have any missing structures replaced as soon as possible. Missing gutters or siding leave your home vulnerable to water damage.

Roof

Roof damage from a storm can be dramatic, such as a cave-in from a broken tree limb, or subtle, such as missing shingles or roof tiles. Either way, the damage needs to be assessed and repaired as soon as possible.

It can be tempting to put off dealing with damage from a winter storm until spring, but that may only make matters worse. If you feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to enlist the help of a storm damage restoration company.

Cleaning Up After a Leaking Roof

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

When storm or water damage occurs in your business, call our SERVPRO team. Our crew is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

After A Roof Has Leaked, How Do You Clean Up?

Water stains in dropped ceilings, tracking down the wall or dripping in a hallway are all signs that your commercial building has a roof leak. Even minor exposure can be a major inconvenience. It can disrupt daily business operations in New River, AZ, and if not taken care of quickly, it can become a costly repair.

What Causes Roofing Leaks

As water flows outward from the leak point, its exact location can be challenging to identify. Some common causes include:

• Age of the roof
• Debris building up and trapping water against the roof
• Gutter backup slowing water flows off the roof
• Missing shingles that may have been ripped off in high winds

Water Damage Cleanup

Once the location of roof leak has been identified and the damaged roof fixed, it’s time to begin water damage cleanup. Depending on the site and severity of the leak, this can be extensive. Although each situation may be a bit different, some common steps must be taken.

1. Remove water-damaged materials.

• From the exterior: Shingles, tarpaper, plywood, flashing, etc.
• From the interior: Fiberglass insulation, drywall, dropped ceilings, carpeting/flooring, etc.

2. Dry water affected areas.

• If appliances or equipment were exposed to water, unplug them and let them air dry.
• Open windows if it’s less humid outside than inside.
• Use fans to speed the drying process.
• Check for mold growth.

3. Disinfect areas exposed to the water

• Wash nonporous hard surfaces such as glass, plastic, and metal with hot water and a nonammonia soap
• Disinfect all exposed surfaces including wood beams and studs with a bleach solution.
• Clean soft surfaces such as furniture, window coverings and carpeting with a disinfecting cleaner

Recovering from a roof leak and restoring roof and ceilings can be a time-consuming, complex process. Water damage restoration specialists in New River, AZ, can ensure the process is done quickly and thoroughly, allowing you to get back to business.

Beautiful Candle Alternatives Without the Risk of Fire

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Choose candle alternatives to avoid a fire threat in your Phoenix, Arizona, house.

Beautiful Candle Alternatives That Aren't Fire Hazardous

The gentle flicker and dance of a lit candle set a tone that is hard to capture any other way, but this seemingly insignificant little flame is a leading cause of house fires. Fire departments across the country respond to more than 7000 residential blazes caused by candle fire. Even acknowledging the beauty and allure of an array of pillars and tapers, there are several reasons to choose candle alternatives:

Candle smoke causes property damage, such as stains on walls and ceilings.
As wicks and wax heat and burn in glass containers, explosions become a risk.

Children and pets often knock over decorative flames.

Fluttering curtains, hanging linens, and other combustible materials catch fire easily when exposed to a flame.

A Variety of Attractive Candle Alternatives
The good news is that there are several alternatives for gentle light. Whether you're looking for romance or calm, you have many options.

A paper lantern traditional form of light that offers comfort and ambiance similar to a gentle flicker. Whether powered by batteries or an electric outlet, these muted lights are available in many shapes, sizes, and colors.

Fairy and string lights are extremely popular as a replacement with a very low risk of fire, especially when LED lights are involved. Lava lamps and tabletop night lights are similar replacements that bring charm and interest to your décor.

Many homeowners enjoy the soft glow of flameless candles. These are available in different sizes and shapes, and many feature a flicker that mimics the dance of fire. You don't have to worry about curtains brushing across the top of these alternatives.

If you're attracted to the pleasant smells of burning candles, you may want to check out many of the available flameless options, such as oil diffusers, wax warmers, reed diffusers, and room sprays. Some flameless candles also provide mild aromas during use.

Property damage cleanup and recovery professionals are familiar with the devastation and property damage that a single candle can cause. Choose candle alternatives to keep your Phoenix, AZ, home safe from this fire hazard.

Flooded Basement: What is and Isn't Covered by Insurance

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

When you identify the source of the water in the basement, you might expect the insurance company to cover the repairs, but you can be wrong.

What Is And Isn't Covered By Insurance In The Case Of A Flooded Basement

If you come home to find your Anthem, AZ, basement full of water, you know that your first call should be to your insurance agent. However, you might be surprised that not everything is covered by your policy. Here is a breakdown of what kind of damage is and isn't covered by insurance.

Replacing or Repairing the Cause of the Basement Flood

When you identify the source of the water in the basement, you might expect the insurance company to cover the repairs. However, most policies won't cover the cost of repairs for whatever caused the flood. For example, insurance policies won't cover:

• Broken pipes
  
• Washing machine supply hose leak
  
• Damaged water heater
  
• Leaking dishwasher
  
• Leaking roofing system

You may be able to purchase additional insurance coverage to cover a leaking sewer main and have that repaired at no cost to you.

Damage Caused by Flood Waters

Most standard homeowners policies don't come with flood insurance. So, regardless of whether your basement flood happened because of an intense rainstorm or an overflowing body of water, such as a river or lake, you won't be covered unless you purchase additional coverage.

A simple online search will tell you your risk factor for your home flooding. If you're at a moderate to high risk, you'll want to ensure that you always carry additional flood insurance.

Removing and Repairing Damaged Personal Property

Your insurance policy will replace and repair any personal property damaged in a basement flood. They will also pay to have a water damage repair service come in and make any repairs to the structure of your home so that it is safe to live in. Depending on your coverage, you might have a deductible and coverage limits to consider when organizing the repairs.

A flooded basement can be a major hassle but ensuring you have additional coverage and relying on the pros for clean up will have your space back to normal before you know it.

5 Ways To Prepare a Home for Flooding

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Just like the storm damaged home in this picture, we are ready at any time to help you get your home back after disaster strikes.

5 Steps To Flood-Proofing Your Home

With flood risks on the rise, your home in Peoria, AZ, may be at risk. Although preventing flooding may not be possible, there are ways to prepare your home and minimize the damage that a professional water and storm damage restoration company will have to repair.

1. Ensure Proper Drainage

An essential way to minimize flood damage is to ensure that the grading around your home is at the right angle. There should be a slope away from the foundation. If you have noticed pools after a rain shower, it is time to bring in some dirt. To further enhance drainage, consider doing some landscaping with mulch and plants known to have high water needs.

2. Inspect the Foundation and Basement

Even the smallest crack in the foundation may lead to big problems. Inspecting the foundation and basement windows should be on the annual to-do list. Check for any signs of leaks, cracks, broken seals, missing caulk or broken masonry.

3. Install Flooding Prevention Systems

If your home is in a high-risk area, there are different systems on the market that detect unwanted water. These are electronic devices that alert the homeowner of excess water before it becomes a major problem. Many of these can also be tied to other smart-home devices.

4. Clean Gutters and Drains

If the gutters are dirty, the rain won’t drain properly. Instead, it will push out of the sides and straight down to the foundation. For homes in areas with many trees, the gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year. Ditches and drains should also be inspected to ensure there is no blockage.

5. Keep Barriers Accessible

Once the rain starts to pour down, you may not be able to keep it out. You can slow the flow by having sandbags on-site. There are also other innovative barrier systems designed for flood prevention that are easy to use and help divert water.

While flooding may not be totally avoidable, there are ways to minimize the risk and prepare your home to battle the storm.

5 Steps To Take After Storm Damage

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northwest Phoenix / Anthem has experience restoring Phoenix homes affected by storms and flooding. Call us!

5 Things To Do After A Storm

Severe storms are no surprise in Norterra, AZ. While, hopefully, your home will be able to weather the storm, that isn’t always the case. If it has sustained damage, below are five storm tips to take to get your back to normal faster.

1. Assess the Damage

Once it is safe to do so, inspect the exterior and interior of the home, especially the basement and attic, for damage. Damage to look for include roof holes, missing shingles, ceiling leaks, dented gutters and broken windows.

2. File a Claim

When it comes to storm tips, contacting your insurance provider ranks high. That is especially important after a storm considering that many other homes are likely damaged. The faster you get the claim process going, the sooner an adjuster will arrive and cleanup can begin. The insurance company will also help you determine what steps should be taken next, including whether or not items can or can’t be removed from the home.

3. Document the Damage

While waiting for the adjuster to arrive, it is important to document all the damage. It is recommended to take videos and photographs of any damage. This will help reinforce your claim and may make the process move along faster.

4. Prevent Secondary Storm Damage

While your insurance will likely cover most of the damage caused by the storm, it won’t cover damage that happens after the event. If the damage sustained includes holes or broken windows, they must be tarped or boarded up to prevent additional water or other damage.

5. Contact a Restoration Company

Depending on the severity of the damage, the next call should be to a professional storm and water damage restoration company. Along with being able to assist with cleanup and restoration required from the water issue, a certified professional will also be able to mitigate the risk of mold growth and other hidden issues, ensuring your home is returned to being a safe and healthy environment.

Severe weather has a way of creating havoc. If your home sustains damage, the above storm tips may help you get back to normal faster.

How To Protect Your Home After a Fire

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Having a fire damage repair service board up your home after a fire can help prevent all kinds of additional damage

How To Keep Your House Safe After A Fire

If your home in Anthem, AZ, is damaged in a fire, you need to know how to protect it from further harm. If you don't properly board up your home, you risk further damage and losing your insurance coverage of the fire damage.

Benefits of Boarding Up Your Home

Fire damage makes your home more vulnerable to other potential risks:

• Rain
  
• Wind
  
• Vandalism
  
• Thieves
  
• Pests

You can avoid these risks by having a fire damage repair service in Anthem, AZ, do an emergency board up immediately after the fire is put out.

Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are often damaged in a fire either by heat or firefighters having to break them to access and put out the fire. You should board up your windows and doors as soon as the fire has been put out. Broken windows and doors make it easy for pests, unauthorized persons and water to enter your home.

Roofs

If your roof has been damaged, rainwater can leak into the home. This can cause additional damage to the roof, ceilings, electrical wiring, flooring and more. Roofs should be covered with tarps to ensure that they are waterproof.

Insurance

If you do not secure your home after a fire, you risk losing your insurance coverage. Since additional damage could drive up the cost of repairs, many insurance providers require an emergency board up. They also want to avoid liability claims from an unauthorized person entering the home and getting injured on your property. Call your insurance provider immediately after a fire and ask what precautions you are required to take.

Having a fire damage repair service board up your home after a fire can help prevent all kinds of additional damage. Entry points, such as windows and doors, should be boarded up immediately. Damaged roofs should be covered with a tarp. If you do not take these precautions, you risk losing your insurance coverage, so make sure you are familiar with your provider's policies.

What You Should Understand About Mitigation and Restoration

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

If unexpected weather damages your Peoria home or business, give SERVPRO of Northwest Phoenix / Anthem a call. We can help you.

What You Should Know About Restoration And Mitigation

If you’re preparing your business to deal with emergencies such as floods, fires, and other potential problems, you should take the time to ensure you know about the services you’ll need in the aftermath, specifically mitigation and restoration. While these two services are often performed in close proximity to one another, they are not the same thing. These are the main differences:

• Mitigation is completed before restoration can commence.
  
• Restoration is often a much lengtheir process than mitigation efforts.
  
• However, both may be completed by your chosen flood cleanup company.

Mitigation

Mitigation consists of efforts made by your restoration company to prevent further damage from occurring to your building in the aftermath of a disaster. For example, after a flood, a flood cleanup company in Peoria, AZ, will often dry out carpets and personal belongings before getting to work on actual repairs. This is so that standing water and waterlogged carpets won’t cause further damage to floors, walls and other parts of your business premises while restoration is underway later.

Restoration

Restoration can only be done after mitigation is complete, during which your restoration company removes damaged materials from your building and replaces them entirely. While mitigation work is to prevent further damage, restoration gets rid of materials and belongings that could not be saved and helps to get your business back to normal. Depending on the amount of work that needs to be done, this step can take weeks.

Of course, none of this is possible without selecting a reliable cleanup company to take care of your business. The best way to ensure you’ll have the services you need on hand when you need them the most is to contract a company for your business. This means professionals will be at your business as soon as possible when flooding, fire or storm damage does occur, so you’ll experience less downtime and can get business booming again in no time.

SERVPRO's 7 Steps for Fire Restoration

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Always hire SERVPRO’s disaster recovery wizards to manage the aftermath of a fire.

SERVPRO's 7 Fire Restoration Steps

When a blaze negatively impacts any office, it takes a team of fire restoration experts to get everything back to normal. SERVPRO’s employees have the know-how to make the journey as painless as possible. Here are the seven stages that are followed every time a business fire rebuild is initiated.

1. Service Initiation

Assistance begins by getting in touch with SERVPRO’s friendly and experienced representatives. These skilled information gatherers are always available, so work can get started at any moment.

2. Damage Inspection

SERVPRO’s disaster assessment authorities arrive in Peoria, AZ, and determine what actions are necessary. This step is essential for crafting an effective recovery plan.

3. Protection Application

After a fire, bad weather and intruders have the potential to cause additional havoc. Prevention of damage from outside elements is an often neglected aspect of fire restoration. Use SERVPRO’s skilled helpers to apply boards and tarps wherever necessary.

4. Water Removal

When buildings get damaged in fires, rainwater can seep inside. Indoor flooding caused by pipe breaks is another possibility. Whatever the scenario, dampness must be handled with urgency. Damage increases with every minute it takes to dry out. SERVPRO’s water elimination gurus know exactly how to make this stage extra speedy.

5. Soot Removal

SERVPRO’s rebuilding services include elimination of soot from walls and ceilings. The specialized equipment they possess is necessary for the execution of this critical phase.

6. Cleaning of Office Essentials

Sanitizing computers, chairs and filing cabinets damaged by fires can be a complicated matter necessitating multiple washing techniques. Let SERVPRO get rid of burnt odors and recover salvageable items.

7. Infrastructure Restoration

Severely burned offices need major repairs, everything from replacing drywall to installing fresh carpet. SERVPRO’s rebuilding masters have the ability to do it all

Fire restoration is a complex process involving special skills. Always hire SERVPRO’s disaster recovery wizards to manage the aftermath of a fire.

Do you understand the three types of water pollution?

3/5/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is affected by water damage, call SERVPRO today. Our team is a leader and highly trained in water removal and restoration!

Do You Know What The Three Different Types Of Water Contamination Are?

In the normal course of life, most people don’t give much thought to their homes being invaded by a flood of any size – whether it comes from a simple toilet overflow or a rising river levels near your town of Rio Vista, AZ. Contaminated water can come from many sources and has three major stages, referred to as categories. Saving your affected belongings may depend on the type of contamination your home is exposed to, so understanding which type you are dealing with can be important.

Water Contamination Categories

• Category 1: “Clean Water” coming from leaky faucet or a broken supply line. Can transform into category 2 or 3 depending on temperature or length of time left standing.

• Category 2: “Gray Water” from dishwasher or washing machine overflow, toilet overflow contaminated with urine but no feces. Can contain viruses or bacteria. Can turn into category 3 if not cleaned up.

• Category 3: “Black Water” is water flooding from deep in toilet, rivers or streams contaminated with sewage, chemicals or microbial growth.

If acted on quickly, smaller clean water problems can often be cleaned up just by using a shop vacuum or the extraction setting of a carpet cleaner. After drying out the flooring, little or no contamination is left behind. Left untreated, however it can advance to a category 2 or even 3 event, so time is of the essence. A category three flood which involves contaminated water containing bacteria or viruses is more serious and can turn into a category 3 situation in no time.

Category 3 floods involve black water, or contamination that contains sewage or heavy chemicals. This situation is not to be taken lightly and you should call an emergency water restoration service in Rio Vista, AZ, to clean your flooring and belongings of all traces of contaminated water.

If the worst happens, remember the three categories of contamination and get the appropriate help to clean your home. It could make the difference between saving your home and belongings and starting over.

What Is Pollution Liability Coverage and Does It Cover Mold?

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the equipment and expertise to handle mold damage of all sizes. When your business suffers any mold damage, give us a call!

What Is Pollution Liability Insurance, And Does It Include Mold?

As a contractor in Peoria, AZ, it's important to you to maintain your reputation as a professional. Of course, your reputation is built primarily on your skill and communication during a project, but one element that has a big impact is how you conduct yourself when something goes wrong.

When something goes wrong is when insurance companies get involved, and for contractors, it's important to have the right type of coverage that will protect your business as well as give you the means to do right by your client. Since many General Liability policies don't cover a mold claim that requires inspection or remediation by a mold remediation specialist, you need to make sure that you have the right kind of coverage. What is it and how does it work?

Pollution Liability Coverage

Pollution liability covers you in the event that your client claims that they sustained damages from pollutants caused by your work. In most GL policies, any mention of mold insurance claims triggers the mold exclusion policy. Adding pollution coverage can protect you in a few ways.

Covers Gaps in Your GL Policy

When you get a pollution policy that specifically covers mold, you are protecting yourself from at least some of the exclusions that are often found in general liability policies. This will also protect your while you work at a job site other than your office.

Customizable for Your Business

If you regularly work with any sort of contaminants, this extra policy can be written specifically with your job type in mind. You can include enhancements such as coverage while loading and unloading materials, while on the road, and during storage.

Works with Other Policies

You don't have to stop with general and pollution policies. Other types of environmental liability insurances and umbrella policies can all work together to protect you from mold insurance claims. Consider obtaining all your policies through one company to avoid any back and forth when submitting a mold claim.

Mold insurance claims can be daunting when you don't have the proper coverage. Review your policies on a regular basis to ensure that your business is well protected.

Why You Want To File Your Insurance Claim Electronically

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

Filing a claim is faster than ever, especially if you use a remediation company like SERVPRO

Why Do You Want to File Your Insurance Claim Online?

When a fire, flood or another disaster strikes, you want to get things fixed and your business back on its feet as soon as possible. The best way to do this is by filing your insurance claim electronically. Many companies are now offering quick and easy solutions to the traditional mail-in claims service.

It Is Fast

Filing a claim is faster than ever, especially if you use a remediation company like SERVPRO in Anthem, AZ. Companies like this can:

• Assess the damage
  
• Take photographs
  
• Document damages
  
• Solve the immediate problem preventing
• further damage
  
• File the claim

They often work directly with the insurance companies, and all of the paperwork gets there in the time it takes to send an email.

Increase Claim Accuracy

Your claim is subject to lost mail and delays due to missing information. When you file electronically, the forms themselves will tell you if something is wrong or missing, or an insurance agent can tell you if they need more information. You can view all of the files associated with your claim and add information as needed.

Online Status Tracking

Using electronic filing allows you to track your insurance claim on the internet. Companies can also send you email or text updates if you choose. You don't have to sit around wondering what is happening with your claim anymore. When the claim gets to the company, you will know when it is accepted and when it is being processed.

Less Paperwork

Insurance filing takes a lot of paper and printing when they are not filed electronically. You fill out the forms, and the insurance company digitizes them. Then prints them and sends them to you. Then you fill out more paperwork if something is inaccurate. This is a huge cycle of paper. With an electronic submission, all you have to do is use your computer and check your email.

An electronic filing is one of the fastest and easiest ways that you can file an insurance claim. It can help get you back on your feet and back to business in no time.

What Should You Do To Clean Up After a Toilet Floods?

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

Sewer damage is responsible for much basement flooding and can also cause toilets to overflow.

What Should You Do If Your Toilet Has Flooded?

Nothing can disrupt the calm of your home quite like learning that your toilet is overflowing. It’s not just about the water, although you should be concerned about water damage, but a flooded toilet brings with it a lot of germs and bacteria and can also be a symptom of sewer damage at your home in Glendale, AZ. Acting in a timely manner and taking the proper measures can help minimize damage. But just how do you go about cleaning up sewage?

What To Do When You Have a Sewage Leak

• Shut off the water supply if possible
• Call for expert help from a sewage company
• Clean up the water
• Clear the blockage with a plunger or auger
• Clean and disinfect

Sewer damage is responsible for many basement floods in Glendale, AZ, annually and can lead to toilets overflowing as well. Hopefully, the toilet was empty and the overflow was caused by a faulty float. More often, you will need to clear a fecal matter or excessive paper blockage from the toilet by using a plunger. If that is not successful, you may need to use an auger - a long snake like device that can wriggle its way though most solid masses, breaking them up and letting them flush clear.

You should call a professional water and sewage company and get help with proper cleaning and drying out your floors and carpets and belongings. They can do a damage assessment and use their commercial strength extraction equipment and fans to remove water and dry things out. Those are the first steps to salvaging your home and it is crucial to make sure they are done properly. They can also help to make sure all contamination has been cleaned or removed from your home, leaving it “Like it never even happened.”

Whether from sewer damage or a flooded toilet, a leak or flood is never a pleasant prospect. But with proper help and cleaning, you can rest assured that your home can be restored to safe and condition again.

Commercial Storm Mitigation and Restoration Tips

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team of IICRC-certified managers and technicians are here to help business owners when they have any water damage.

Storm Mitigation And Restoration Tips For Businesses

It only takes a brief time for a storm in Anthem, AZ, to cause significant damage to your business. The recovery process, however, takes much longer. There are two phases after the storm. First, the flood cleanup company mitigates the damage. Second, the restoration company returns your business to preloss condition. Here are some tips for both stages of recuperation.

Storm Mitigation

Mitigation refers to the process of stopping further loss from occurring. When a storm hits, water damage is the most likely culprit. Wind, hail and even lightning strikes cause problems as well. These are some key points for understanding the first part of recovery:

• It is important to act fast. Water spreads quickly and causes secondary damage within 24-48 hours, such as mold growth. Contact the flood cleanup company as soon as possible after you suspect storm damage.
  
• The mitigation process may be relatively quick. First excess water is extracted, and unsalvageable materials are disposed of. Then the area is thoroughly dried, cleaned and sanitized.

Storm Restoration

After the damage is controlled, the second round focuses on returning your property to its pre-storm state. Although ideally one company covers both steps, restoration differs from mitigation in these ways:

• While still important to complete in a timely manner, the immediacy of intervention is not as critical. However, every day your business is not open you lose revenue.
  
• Depending on the level of destruction, this portion likely takes longer. Damaged drywall may need replaced, floors repaired, carpet installed or painting completed. In addition to the structure, contents and inventory are repaired or replaced as well.

A storm in Anthem, AZ, wreaks havoc on your business. Recovery from water and other damage occurs in two phases: mitigation and restoration. For mitigation, it is crucial to use a flood cleanup company that is Faster to Any Size Disaster because every second counts. The restoration company then returns your property to preloss condition.

Prevent a Kitchen Fire With These Four Cooking Tips

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

This kitchen suffered a serious fire loss that started when something caught fire on the stove. The extent of the damage was severe.

These Four Cooking Tips Can Help You Avoid a Kitchen Fire

With appliances, extreme heat, and plenty of flammable objects always nearby, it is no surprise that almost 50 percent of home fires are caused by cooking equipment. Dealing with a grease fire or other type of kitchen fire in Phoenix, AZ, is a very scary experience and can even lead to serious damage to your home and require the help of fire restoration specialists. Luckily, there is much you can do to set up your kitchen safely and avoid ever having to deal with a large fire cleanup!

1. Never Leave Cooking Food Unattended

While there are many reasons why you might be tempted to leave the kitchen while cooking, doing so can quickly lead to a large fire. Make sure to monitor your food closely so you can quickly turn off the heat and extinguish a fire if one does start.

2. Be Cautious and Tidy When Working With Oil

Prevent a large grease fire by avoiding splattering while you cook, and quickly cleaning up spills as they occur. Instead of rapidly heating up oil in a pan, slowly increase the temperature until it’s hot enough. Watch out for any smoke or burning smells, and keep a lid close by your side so you can quickly cover flames if they appear.

3. Tie Back Long Hair and Roll Up Sleeves

To avoid your clothes or hair from catching on fire, avoid loose clothing, roll up your sleeves, and tie back your hair. While you might not look as fashionable as you’d wish, it’s much better than catching on fire!

4. Keep Flammable Items Away From the Stove

Items like paper towels, oven mitts, pot holders, and dish towels are useful to have nearby while you cook, but they don’t belong on your stove. Even while you’re baking, move anything flammable off your stovetop.

Keep these four tips in mind next time you cook so you can avoid a devastating grease fire in your kitchen. Don’t let yourself make any mistakes you’ll regret!

5 Tips for Maintaining Your Roof

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

If you find that the roof of your business has storm damage, call SERVPRO, we are ready to take care of your case.

Roof Maintenance: 5 Points To Keep In Mind

If you own a business in Peoria, AZ, you may be worried about roof damage to your commercial property. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to help keep the roof of your business in working order.

1. Keeping Gutters Clean

One important step for roof maintenance is to keep your gutters clean. This can help prevent blockages that can lead to flooding and pooling water on your roof. It's best to check your gutters after storms to ensure that no debris has been washed into them.

2. Monitor the Roof’s Condition

It's also important to monitor the roof's condition on a regular basis. Look for any wind damage, loose shingles or cracked tiles. These are all things that should be taken care of as quickly as possible.

3. Regular Inspections

A regular inspection by a professional can help prevent roof damage in the long-term. These professionals can look over your roof for any signs of damage you may have missed. If found, repairs can be conducted to get the roof back into working order.

4. Trim Back Trees

Another step you can take for roof maintenance is to trim back any tree branches that could fall onto the roof. This can help prevent damage in the event a storm causes brakes in the tree limbs.

5. Conducting Repairs Quickly

In the event you do find damages or areas needing repair on your businesses roof, then a professional restoration team may be able to help. In the event of extreme damage, they may even be able to perform a full roof rebuild.

Following these steps can help reduce the possibility of roof damage to your business. Remember to keep your gutters clean to prevent flooding, inspect for cracks in shingles or roof tiles, trim back any tree branches that could fall into your business, and conduct any repairs needed as quickly as possible. If you do find the roof has storm damage, then a professional may be able to help.

Is Your Office Prepared For An Emergency Evacuation?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Preparing for workplace mishaps such as fire or flood is the surest way to know that you are ready for unpredictable events.

Is Your Workplace Ready For An Emergency Exit?

While workplace emergencies won’t be an everyday occurrence in your commercial facility, having a contingency plan is the best way to be ready if disaster strikes. An emergency strategy should focus on reacting to a crisis and its various outcomes. Preparing for workplace mishaps like fire or flooding is the surest way to know you are ready for unpredictable events in Peoria, AZ. Begin evaluating your office evacuation plan in three simple steps.

1. Identify Potential Emergency Situations

Some commercial businesses are more at risk than others when it comes to possible disasters. Look at factors such as number of employees, likelihood of weather-related disasters, and substances or machinery that may pose dangers on-site. Whether you operate a large factory or a small desk space, consider potential circumstances that could arise.

• Flooding
• Fires
• Chemical spills
• Natural disasters

2. Create a Simple Protocol

After outlining where the greatest risks lie, create a protocol to be followed by management, staff, and other employees. Educate individuals on how to report emergencies. Designate contingency plan leaders who can guide evacuations, address immediate medical needs, and lead potential mass exits. Post visual reminders such as escape-route maps and contacts for emergency restoration services that can be easily accessed during and after an urgent situation.

3. Rehearse an Evacuation Scenario

As the old saying suggests, practice makes perfect. Because of the unpredictable nature and varying forms of workplace emergencies, an effective evacuation plan requires training and reinforcement. Rehearsing an emergency departure will allow commercial employees to get a feel for where to go, what to do, and how to stay safe. Emphasize the need to stay calm and assist others in a real crisis.

Creating a customized contingency plan requires some preparation and practice. Preparing before disaster strikes may make all the difference in protecting employees and facility assets during an emergency. Look over your Peoria, AZ, emergency evacuation strategy to see if you are prepared for the unknown.

Where Does Mold Grow?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO's Mold Removal Specialists to address your mold problem. Their expertise can control your mold quickly and safely.

What Is the Best Place To Find Mold?

Mold is abundant in the environment, even where you live in Phoenix, AZ. In order to reduce your incidence of indoor mold growth, you need to understand where mold thrives.

A Happy Home

For mold, a happy home is moist, has an ample food source, and has a hospitable temperature. The problem is that humans also like to live in similar environments. Many materials in your home are packed with cellulose, which is a prime food source for mold. Watch out for mold damage by knowing what those food sources are:

• Wood
• Drywall
• Insulation
• Carpet and textiles

Why do you see mold on non-organic materials, such as plastic or concrete? These items become soiled and develop a bio-film that is prime for mold and mildew growth. Routine cleaning can help reduce the build-up of scum, but plenty of food still remains in your abode.

How Does It Get Inside?

How do you get mold damage inside a home? The environment is rich with mold spores. Those spores travel on the wind, getting inside through ducts and windows. You can help reduce an accumulation of spores by vacuuming and dusting regularly, but spores will continue to travel inside so the key is moisture and humidity control.

Moisture Control is Key

Sometimes relative humidity is a problem, especially in geographic regions where environmental humidity is high. Maintaining good airflow and using humidifiers can help in these cases. The other way to manage moisture in your home is to be quick to fix minor leaks. You may think those leaks are no big deal because there is no major water damage, but the colonization of mold quickly gets out of hand so any water leak is a serious problem.

Sometimes you don’t realize you have a problem until you find mold damage. This happens easily since mold likes to hide in dark places where you may not notice the trouble until it is too late. Call a good mold remediation specialist to tackle your mold trouble. Their expertise can get your mold under control quickly and safely.