Ways To Flood-Proof Your Home

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

Laying down absorbent mulch can help to reduce potential flooding.

While you can’t totally protect your house in North Aurora, IL from every potential flood, there are some flood safety recommendations that can reduce the risk of damage.

How To Protect Your House From Flooding

For maximum flood safety, move all electrical sockets, switches, and circuit breakers so that they are at least one foot above your area’s flood level expectations.
Boilers, air conditioning units, and generators should be elevated on wooden platforms or cinder blocks above the flood level. Also, consider elevating your washer and dryer on blocks if they are located in the basement.
Install a backstop for sewage water. A licensed plumber should install gate valves to all pipes that lead into your house to reduce the risk of sewage backup into your home.

How to Minimize the Risk Outside Your Home
The following safety tips will help to reduce the risk of flooding from landscaping and other outside fixtures.

Keep all gutters and drains clear of debris. Clogged drains will increase the risk of floodwaters that cause damage.
Inspect your roof periodically to make sure the shingles are in good condition. Call a professional to replace any damaged materials before the first chance of rain.
Put a rain barrel under your gutter spouts to reduce the risk of flooding in your basement.
Evaluate the layout of your landscaping:

Outdoor surfaces that are porous, such as rocks with a bit of space between them, will encourage water to soak into the ground before it reaches the house.
You can also dig channels into the soil so that stormwater can drain away from the house.
If you have an asphalt or concrete driveway, consider changing it to brick or gravel. Also, laying down absorbent mulch can help to reduce potential flooding.

Even though you can’t totally flood-proof your house, you can implement these smart flood safety suggestions to reduce your risk.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Property Managers

6/26/2022 (Permalink)

Make a preparedness kit.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Property Managers

Going through a hurricane can bring untold stress. That’s even truer if you’re managing a property. With multiple renters come multiple potential problems, any of which could carry the risk of liability. Don’t wait until the last minute. Use these hurricane preparedness tips to prepare your Batavia, IL, property and enter storm season confident you’ll suffer little hurricane damage.

Hurricane Season Risks

A hurricane is best described as a storm on steroids. Defined by violent winds often in excess of 74 mph, these weather occurrences can cause property damage that takes months to repair. Damage can include:

• Floodwaters moving across the ground
• Mudslides due to excessive ground moisture
• Tornadoes triggered by the original storm

If your property is located in a hurricane-prone area, it’s important that you prepare for these potential impacts.

Make a Storm Plan

If you own a multi-family property, a comprehensive storm preparation plan is a must. Make sure your strategy covers evacuation plans, emergency contacts and hurricane damage relief information. Create a hurricane-preparedness team tasked with updating and communicating your plan to residents.

Secure Your Property

During high winds, just about anything can become a projectile. It’s important to secure items in advance to prevent serious damages. Survey the property in advance of the storm to identify items like large trash bins that could be lifted in a storm. If the item can’t be secured, store it inside.

Make a Preparedness Kit

Don’t forget your staff when preparing for a hurricane. Make and store kits in portable containers that can allow your staff to tend to emergencies that may occur just before or during a storm. Be sure to include staples like a flashlight, extra batteries, drinking water and a first aid kit.

Hurricane damage is nothing to sneeze at. The flooding and high winds can be a property management nightmare. Don’t risk it. Use these tips as a starting point for hurricane preparedness and enter the storm season secure.

4 Maintenance Tips for Fire Sprinkler Systems

6/18/2022 (Permalink)

Keep sprinkler heads clean.

Fire Sprinkler System Maintenance

Having a fire sprinkler system installed in your business can be imperative for safety should a flame break out. However, these systems can also malfunction, resulting in unnecessary water damage to the building. To ensure they function properly, routine sprinkler maintenance is key. Here are four tips to maintain the system in your Geneva, IL, property.

1. Keep Sprinkler Heads Clean
For proper function, sprinkler heads should be cleaned regularly. They can collect grease, dust, grime and more material that can obstruct the flow of water if needed. Use a solution aimed at removing grease to clean off any residue.

2. Check Water Pressure in Fire Sprinklers
In the event of a fire, there should be good water pressure within the sprinkler system. Have a fire or plumbing professional check the pressure regularly to make sure there is a good flow of water when needed.

3. Inspect Non-electric Control Valves
Inspecting the system's control valves is a key component of sprinkler maintenance to avoid water accidentally spilling out when no fire occurs. Non-electric valves should ideally be checked weekly to make sure they are open.

4. Perform Routine Inspection of the Entire System
Enlist a fire service professional to inspect the building's entire sprinkler system. This is the best way to ensure the sprinklers will perform properly when there is a fire and won't cause water damage to the building if not. An inspector can check for unseen issues, such as damaged pipes within the system and other concerns that building owners might miss.
Plan an all-system inspection to take place once every year. Neglecting this method of sprinkler maintenance could result in accidental activation and an immense water cleanup project only water damage restoration professionals can handle.
Keep your building's fire sprinkler system maintained by cleaning sprinkler heads, checking water pressure and control valves, plus having an annual inspection of the system.

3 Things To Know About Fire Extinguishers

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Choosing a fire extinguisher is one of the most critical decisions to protect your family.

Fire Extinguishers: 3 Things You Should Know

Choosing a fire extinguisher is one of the most critical decisions to protect your family. When shopping for these life-saving devices in St. Charles, IL, it helps to consider whether you plan to use them in your home or vehicle and know the difference between the three types. Here are three things to know to help you buy a suitable extinguisher and be ready for a fire.

1. Size and Location
A fire extinguisher can range in size from two to tens pounds. The two-pound disposable models are ideal for keeping secured in the trunk of your car or the toolbox of your truck. The next most common size is five pounds, which you should keep near the stove or clothes dryer. The largest extinguishers designed for home use weigh ten pounds. Mount these near the garage or other spaces containing combustible materials.

2. Types
Manufacturers classify extinguishers according to the type of fires they can put out. For example, type A is for cloth, wood and paper. Type B is for liquids like grease and gasoline, and Type C is for electrical fires. In addition to the letter categories, Underwriter Laboratories ranks extinguishers from 1 to 4 according to how well they work. Manufacturers can also produce extinguishers worthy of multiple letters and numbers. Thus, you can buy a single extinguisher capable of putting out any home fire.

3. Fire Preparedness
In addition to buying the right kind of extinguishers, it is vital to check their pressure regularly to ensure they are ready when you need them. You also can purchase a battery-powered sensor to alert you when to refill an extinguisher. Finally, for the next level in fire protection, you can connect your extinguishers to your home security system that will automatically call 911 if you discharge an extinguisher. In case of a fire, hire a fire cleanup service.
Knowing how to buy and maintain a fire extinguisher will keep your family safe. When you prepare for the worst, you will have peace of mind.

3 Ways To Protect Your Home From a Fire

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Never leave your home with a space heater or other heating appliance running.

Protect Your Home From a Fire

There are many residential fire causes, such as kitchen mishaps, heating equipment, faulty wiring and smoking. It's important to recognize possible dangers and take the proper precautions. Here are a few ways you can protect your home from a fire.

1. Cook Responsibly
Whether you're having a neighborhood barbeque in Elburn, IL, or baking a batch of cookies, it's important to always be aware of cooking equipment. A home fire can occur quickly, so it's best to be prepared for all situations. When cooking on a grill, make sure the coals are completely extinguished and the grill itself has cooled down before moving it into a garage or near something flammable. Don't leave food baking unattended for long periods of time and remember to turn off all appliances before going to bed.

2. Be Aware of Possible Combustibles
Your home is full of flammable items, so it's good to take precautions to protect yourself and your family. Never leave your home with a space heater or other heating appliance running. This is considered dangerous as combustibles like blankets, clothing and furniture can cause a home fire if they are too close to the heater. A fire can start from something as simple as stray ash from a cigarette. If you smoke, it's best to do it outside to reduce the risk of a fire.

3. Prepare for the Unexpected
Practicing fire safety is a great way to protect your family, but you should also be prepared for an emergency. Make sure your family knows what to do in case of a fire, including where to meet once you exit the home. While you may think about reaching for valuables, remember that your safety is of utmost importance. During the fire cleaning and restoration process afterward, trained professionals can preserve family photos and other keepsakes.
Much of the time, a home fire is preventable. Apply fire safety precautions in your home and create a safe environment for you and your family.

How To Prevent Fire Damage in Your Commercial Building

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

People need to know how to exit the building calmly and safely.

Steps To Create a Fire Prevention Plan

The safety of not only your commercial building but also everyone in it is likely one of your key concerns as a business owner. Certified mitigation experts in North Aurora, IL, can repair and restore your building to its former state, but it's better to prevent the problem in the first place. Here are some tips for creating a solid fire prevention plan.

Teach Good Fire Safety Habits
It's not enough for you to know how to prevent a fire. Everyone who works there must be trained on general fire safety as well as specific issues that may arise with their jobs. There are several topics this training should cover:

• Combustible items
  
• Storage of flammable liquids
  
• Electrical outlet usage
  
• Appliance and equipment care
  
  

Additionally, everyone should know how to use a fire extinguisher. Ensure that you have enough canisters stashed throughout the building so that one is always within easy reach when needed.

Install and Maintain a Business Fire Suppression System
Most commercial buildings have sprinkler systems that are connected to a central control panel. Consult the fire marshal to find out the type of fire prevention system that works best for your structure. Make sure the system undergoes regular maintenance, and report any malfunctions as soon as you discover them.

Practice and Post Evacuation Plans
Finally, if a fire does break out, everyone needs to know how to exit the building calmly and safely. Post signs showing the fastest evacuation routes from multiple points in the building. Stage fire drills so that everyone who works there understands their role in case of a fire. You may not always be able to prevent fire damage to the building, but you can at least keep your people safe.
It is of utmost importance to have a strong fire prevention plan when you own a business. Make the safety of your people a priority.

Handling Water Damage in Your Home

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Wooden flooring was damaged by water.

Tips For Detecting Water Damage In Your Home

Often unnoticed for days or weeks at a time, water damage is one of the most common and costly disasters within a home. By the time you notice it, it may be hard to salvage anything. However, you can avoid that situation. Here are some tips for detecting water damage and handling a flooded basement or a busted water pipe.

Look for Signs of Damage
Water damage can often be hard to detect. Sometimes, it's not until you start to see swelling wood or notice that your floor is wet that you realize something is wrong. Fortunately, there are other, more subtle signs of water damage that you can look out for to identify the issue much sooner.

• Peeling or blistering paint
  
• Loose wallpaper
  
• Mold and mildew in or on walls
  
• Rust on metal surfaces
  
• Corroded electrical wiring
  
  

If left unchecked, water damage can progressively weaken the structural integrity of your home and pose fire hazards around electrical outlets.

Check Your Water Supply Line
Floods, rainfall, or broken water pipes can all cause water damage. Start by turning off the water supply and repairing any broken water pipes. Swelling wood may indicate where the breaks are, making a water pipe repair easy to complete.

Fix the Damaged Areas
Depending on how long the water was left standing, wooden structures around your home may be warped or swollen. Drywall and solid wood can be dried and salvaged if the damage is detected quickly. You can use towels or a wet vacuum. Swelling wood, such as particleboard or wood composites in cabinets and the subfloor, may need to be replaced. If necessary, call a water damage repair service in Batavia, IL.
Water damage can be a hassle. Identifying the problem quickly and contacting professional services can help you mitigate the effects and restore your home.

Local Is Better: Why SERVPRO Is a Preferred Vendor

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia provides peace of mind during your restoration.

Why SERVPRO Is a Preferred Vendor

When your company in Geneva, IL, is faced with damage from fire, water, or mold, you want the decision about who to hire for restoration services to be simple. Unless you've done a lot of research in advance, it can seem daunting to need to shop around for quotes and availability when you just want the job done. Many insurance companies will have a list of preferred vendors in your area. The local SERVPRO franchise will be a good bet.

1. SERVPRO Is Local
You're a business owner in the community so you understand the importance of supporting other local business owners. SERVPRO is a national corporation that has locally owned and operated franchises. When hiring someone to do a big restoration project, it's important that they do business nearby and are invested in you and the community.

2. SERVPRO Is Certified
When your restoration project is completed, you want your customers to know that you had the job done and done well. A certified SERVPRO clean is a set of high standards that promises a thorough cleaning of your space with the interest of keeping you and your customers safe. Because local franchises are backed by big corporate standards, the SERVPRO Certified label means the same level of excellence no matter where you are.

3. SERVPRO Is Resourced
Locally owned small businesses are wonderful for the economy and the community. The helpful thing for a small business that is part of a larger corporation, like a SERVPRO franchise, is that they have access to resources that other non-franchises might not. This is beneficial to you as the business owner when something unexpected comes up during the restoration process. You know that the company you hired is supported, which in turn helps them to better support you.

Check with your insurance company to find out who is on their list of preferred vendors. Working with a SERVPRO franchise in your community will provide peace of mind during your restoration.

3 Tips for Removing Odors After a Flood

4/17/2022 (Permalink)

Hardwood floor water damage in St. Charles, IL.

Tips To Remove Odors After a Flood

Water damage in buildings is a very common problem and one that can be difficult to resolve. Not only does the water itself cause property damage, but it can lead to mold growth, odors and other problems. If you are noticing odors in your building after a flood, these three tips can help you remove them.

1. Clean and Dry Your Carpets

Carpeted areas can be particularly challenging when damaged by flood water. The water can soak into the carpet pad and cause mold. It can also leave behind stains and smells. The first step is to completely dry out your carpet. You may need the assistance of a water restoration company in St. Charles, IL, to do this. Once your carpet is dry, thoroughly clean it, but do not use too much moisture, because this could lead to a new mold problem. Try sprinkling baking soda or a commercial carpet deodorizer on the carpet to absorb odors.

2. Throw Out Contents That Can Not Be Dried Out

Some types of properties, such as carpets, upholstered furniture, insulation and paper files are difficult to completely dry out, which can lead to mold growth. Anything you have that you can not promptly dry out may need to be discarded to prevent future problems such as mold and bad smells.

3. Ventilate and Deodorize the Building

One of the first things to do after sewage loss or flooding is to open as many doors and windows as possible. This helps to air out the building and aid in the drying process. You can help this process along by using a space heater, box fan or overhead fan. Using a commercial deodorizer may also help with eliminating odors.

Flood damage can cause mold growth and other issues that can lead to unpleasant odors in your building. These three steps can help you eliminate this problem before it gets worse.

Precautions To Take During Mold Remediation

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Elburn, IL.

How To Keep Your Employees and Building Safe During Mold Removal

Finding black mold in your building can be stressful, and you may be concerned about how to keep your employees and building safe during the mold removal process. Taking these precautions can help.

Prepare for Remediation
Before the mold remediation service arrives, there are things you can do to prevent further mold growth, minimize damage and keep everyone safe:

• Clean up water and dry the area
  
• Remove any items touched by mold or water
  
• Open windows and doors
  
• Clear the work area for technicians
  
• Remove people and animals from the area if instructed by a technician
  
  

Understand the Remediation Process

While every mold remediation service in Elburn, IL, may have slight differences in procedures, the mold removal process is generally the same. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare and take proper precautions.
The technicians will first bring necessary equipment into the building and set up protective materials, such as plastic sheets, to prevent any further damage. They will then put on protective equipment before coming into contact with mold or water. While not all mold or liquids are hazardous to touch, they will usually take precautions if the area is contaminated, just to be safe. You and anyone else in the building should take these same precautions and avoid contact with potentially contaminated materials.
After drying any moisture, they will spray a disinfectant over the area that kills spores and prevents mold growth. They may have to return the following day to spray an encapsulant on the area, which further contains the mold, preventing further growth or damage.

Repair Structural Damage

Mold can damage building materials, such as wood, and cause structural damage to the building. The mold remediation service should check for any signs of damage. Any problem areas should be repaired as quickly as possible to ensure that the building is safe and structurally sound.
Knowing what to do before remediation, understanding the mold removal process and promptly repairing structural damage can protect your employees and building if you discover mold growth.

3 Facts About Post-Flooding Mold and How To Prevent Its Spread

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage to the ceiling.

Three Things to Know About Post-Flooding Mold and How to Prevent It

Many problems can crop up after a flood in your North Aurora, IL, home. Foul smells, stagnant water and debris may all plague your property; however, few issues can be as troublesome as mold growth. Fungi can form as soon as a day after the flood, especially when humidity levels in your home are high. If you are battling mold after water damage, there are a few facts to keep in mind when it comes to finding growths and preventing their spread.

1. Mold Does Not Need Sunlight To Grow

Unlike many other organisms, mold does not depend on sunlight to thrive. Instead, it seeks out moist, humid areas where spores attach and begin to eat. After a flood, building materials like wood and drywall attract spores or absorb them during the flood. It can grow out of sight, inside walls and under cabinetry, where you may not notice it until you smell the odor fungi releases as it eats. After a flood, it is a good idea to have your home inspected for mold.

2. Mold Is Different Than Mildew

While both mold and mildew have a great deal in common, they are not exactly alike. Mildew tends to grow on the surface of building materials and household items, but it can generally be wiped away with a cloth and household cleanser. Mold, however, grows roots once the spores attach and cannot be easily cleaned away. Using bleach is not effective either, as fungi is not bacteria and the water content in most cleaning products may only encourage further mold growth.

3. Some Molds Require Professional Removal

Standing water and high humidity can cause severe fungi growth, including invasive black mold. Because this is a type of fungus that can be difficult to clean, you may consider calling in a storm damage and flood restoration service for assistance. Mold specialists have the experience and tools necessary to eliminate this issue and ensure it does return.

Flooding often causes sudden mold growth, which can affect your North Aurora, IL, home. Knowing how to target and remove damaging fungi can be an important step in the restoration of your property.

3 Tasks for Post-Fire Recovery

3/26/2022 (Permalink)

Board up services in a property in Batavia, IL.

Recovering After a Fire In Your Business

When hard times fall on your business, it can be difficult to pick yourself up. This goes especially if your property goes up in flames. For companies in Batavia, IL, fire restoration is a tough place to be in. If you take a deep breath and remember to focus on the positive, you can recover from this. Restoring your workspace can have a good head start if you remember three tasks:

Call for Insurance Claims

This is what your Business Owners Policy is for. Fire insurance should be listed as part of your coverage. When you call, make sure to have these on hand:

• A list of the property you’ve lost
  
• Dates; times of loss
  
• A police report
  
  

Keeping these close by may help speed the process. Remember, your insurance agent should help you when you call. If you have forgotten something, simply ask for a moment to collect the information.

Securing Your Damaged Property

It may seem counter-intuitive, but do not try the fire restoration on your own. At first, the damage must be displayed in its natural state for the professionals to ascertain what was lost. Of course, make an inventory, and take pictures of the damage, but try not to touch it. Also, try not to worry, for fire repairs or smoke cleaning, help can always be a phone call away.

Locating a New Workspace

During stressful times, your revenue may not be far from your mind. It should be a good choice to find a place to put the property you did manage to save. If you need a new office or storage space, consider searching online for emergency locations nearby. You may find a temporary space to operate from as repairs are underway.
For business owners, fire restoration can take an emotional toll. However, if you mark these tasks off your checklist, you should be well on your way to a successful recovery. Remember to file your claim, secure your property, and locate a safe space.

5 Ways for a Business To Use Less Water

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Annual plumbing inspections can identify issues such as old or worn pipes.

Five Water-Saving Strategies for Businesses

Overuse and waste are the most significant water issues at commercial properties located in Geneva, IL. Inefficient bathroom fixtures, irrigation and cooling systems can drive up water bills at any building. Here are five ways to maximize the efficiency of water use and save money.

1. Switch To Low-Flow Fixtures

Old commercial toilets use anywhere from three to seven gallons of water per flush. Consider a water upgrade to low-flow toilets that use anywhere from 1.28 to 1.6 gallons per flush or urinals that use just 0.05 gpf or are waterless.

2. Adjust the Irrigation System

From installing sensors that detect rain or measure soil moisture to scheduling sprinklers to water less often for longer periods of time, there are several ways to reduce outdoor water waste. Irrigation accounts for a significant percentage of water usage at commercial properties with landscaping.

3. Avoid Pipe Breaks and Leaks

Annual plumbing inspections can identify issues such as old or worn pipes or corrosion build-up that can lead to water issues and leaks. A hidden leak can cause water bills to spike, and usage will not decline until the problem is fixed.

4. Maximize Cooling Tower Efficiency

Evaporation is a primary source of water use in buildings with cooling towers. Building owners may want to mix gray and potable water or otherwise recycle water to lower usage.

5. Reduce Water Booster Pressure

Buildings with more than a few floors may rely on water boosters to pump water up to higher stories. Try turning down the settings to conserve energy and water while lowering pipe pressure that could lead to breaks and water damage.
These measures may prevent common water issues at a commercial building in Geneva, IL. A property owner or manager may be able to make these upgrades with small initial investments that pay off over time and reduce risks of damage.

With Its 24-Hour Response, SERVPRO Is Your Top Choice for Disaster Recovery

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration services in a home in St. Charles, IL.

Eventually, something in your home will break or wear out. Replacement and repairs are inevitable. You can handle some things on your own, and some things aren’t that urgent and can wait for attention. But with a home disaster such as a flood or fire, it’s a different story. In a situation such as this, you need an experienced professional that can provide 24-hour service to relieve your desperate emergency. Look no farther than SERVPRO.

What Makes SERVPRO Great?

SERVPRO isn’t the only disaster recovery company around, but it should be your No. 1 choice when you need thorough, efficient restoration and cleanup help from a catastrophe at your St. Charles, IL, house. Here are a few reasons why:

• SERVPRO is always open.
  
• SERVPRO has years of experience.
  
• SERVPRO does pretesting, cleanup, and restoration.
  
  

Round-the-Clock Care

Have you ever had an urgent need, so you called a professional for help, but the person or company had shut down shop for the rest of the day? This can be frustrating if you need to correct the problem immediately. Luckily, SERVPRO can give you a fast response because it never closes its doors. Someone is always available to respond to your issue, whether it’s late at night, on the weekend or even on a holiday.

Experience Matters

You can have peace of mind knowing that not only does SERVPRO give you 24-hour attention, but that it has a proven track record of success in the industry. The team has years of experience helping customers just like you with small jobs, extensive jobs and everything in between.

Full Range of Service

From the moment you enlist the help of a SERVPRO professional, you can expect thorough service. The team will first assess the damage and come up with a game plan. Then, the technicians will remove water and smoke damage, clean up and sanitize the affected area, and restore or replace what you lost in the disaster.

There’s no need to call anyone else when you can have SERVPRO and its 24-hour service in your home. When disaster strikes, you know where to turn.

Make an Escape Plan: Two Ways for Every Room

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

Make a fire escape plan for your family and practice it.

Include the Following Three Steps In Your Fire Escape Plan

You should make sure your family knows two ways to escape every room in the event of a fire in your home in Elburn, IL. While you are making a fire escape plan, here are three important steps to include:

1. Make a plan that includes two ways to escape each room.
   
2. Practice your plan and go over some safety tips.
   
3. Designate a meet-up location and communication plan.
   
   

In the case of a house fire, you and your family only have two minutes to get out. Your family’s best chance of survival is making a fire escape plan and practicing that plan.

Safety Tips for the Escape

Your family needs two escape routes for every room because one path may be blocked by fire. Teach everyone to feel doors before opening them. If a door is hot, it’s time to use the second escape path.

Tell your family that they’ll need to stay low, crawling quickly, to avoid heat and smoke. If someone is trapped in an upper-level room, teach that the window can be opened for breathing and used to send visual signals of their location. A flashlight or bright fabric in the window can let firefighters know where they are.

Communications

Your emergency escape plan should designate a meeting location. This location should be away from the house but within good visual sight so firefighters can see that everyone is out safely. You should also designate a method of communication that lets family members know you are safe. This could include the use of social media or designating a personal contact to call.

Don’t worry about your home, it can be cleaned, restored and rebuilt with the help of professional fire restoration specialists. Focus your energy on this important preparation, a fire escape plan that will give your family the tools they need to escape a fire.

3 Commercial Generator Facts

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

A generator can provide emergency backup power to a commercial building.

3 Facts About Commercial Generators

A generator can provide emergency backup power to a commercial building. Building owners or managers should select a model that provides a sufficient amount of electricity to sustain essential functions. Here are three facts to guide owners and managers toward the right backup power solution for a building in North Aurora, IL.

1. Most Generators Use One of Four Fuel Types

Generators tend to rely on gasoline, diesel, liquid propane or natural gas. Gasoline has about a 12-month shelf life, whereas diesel can last for 18 to 24 months. Liquid propane remains viable for decades. Natural gas generators can be connected to existing pipelines, and many models can also run on liquefied petroleum or propane.

2. Refilling Services Are Available For Some Fuel Types

Owners and managers may want to factor in the ease of refilling fuel. Delivery and tank refilling services are available for diesel and liquid propane. Gasoline is widely available, and many stations have transfer switches and generators that make it possible to pump fuel during a power outage.

3. A Well-Maintained Generator Can Last For Decades

Commercial generators should be regularly inspected and maintained. Owners of standby generators should perform automatic transfer switch exercise cycles weekly, as well as periodic load tests. Charge the battery in a portable unit by powering it up at least once every three months for 30 minutes. These measures can prevent generator problems in the event of an emergency.

Operate a generator outside to prevent carbon monoxide from accumulating in a building. Property owners may want to purchase a cover or specialized enclosure to keep out rain and snow. It is also a good idea to maintain enough fuel to last several days. If a storm or any other type of disaster damages a commercial building in North Aurora, IL, the owner or manager should schedule a consultation with mitigation and restoration experts.

Precautions That Can Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

1/23/2022 (Permalink)

Insulate your pipes

Prevent Frozen Pipes

With the onset of winter in Batavia, IL, there are many things to look forward to holidays, snuggling with cider and a good book, sledding, and a myriad of other frosty activities. Frigid winter weather, however, can wreak havoc on household plumbing. Unprotected pipes can rupture with the drop in temperature, leaving you with a wet mess and damage to your belongings or your structure. Frozen pipes can be prevented by taking a few simple steps.

How To Prevent Frozen Pipes

Securing your plumbing doesn’t have to be a chore. There are many basic strategies you can use:

• Insulate pipes and fittings with foam sheets or fiberglass
  
• Keep the surrounding room warm
  
• Leave cabinet doors open
  
• Turn faucets on to a slow drip or trickle
  
  

Evaluate your home to discover where you may need additional insulation to prevent a pipe freeze. For instance, kitchen, bathroom or laundry room plumbing fixtures on the outer wall will be more vulnerable than those located on an inner wall. Garage sinks or outdoor faucets with connected hoses are also prime areas for problems.

Make sure to set your home’s thermostat high enough to keep these rooms and areas warm. A space heater may help you achieve this. Opening the cabinet doors to expose water lines to warmth during extreme temperature drops can also prevent pipe freeze. Allow the faucets in these areas to drip or slowly trickle to keep the drains open and water flowing freely.

What To Do When Pipes Freeze

If frozen pipes do occur, call on restoration professionals in Batavia, IL, to help you save as much of your home and belongings as possible. They can assist you in drying out carpet and flooring, securing structural materials and initiating water cleanup to prevent mold or rot. Removing moisture properly can make the difference between restoring or replacing wet items. To stop water problems in the first place, be sure to follow the steps outlined above and enjoy the winter weather!

Protecting Your Roof From Solar Panel Damage

1/15/2022 (Permalink)

Heavy storms can cause panel damage.

While solar panels are designed to withstand a variety of weather conditions, they need to be maintained. Heavy storms can cause panel damage, and it’s important to understand when and how to protect your paneling against the weather in Geneva, IL. If your panels are damaged or obstructed, you want to troubleshoot the issue quickly and return your roof to maximize energy production.

How Storms Can Damage Paneling

Storms of different intensities cause different kinds of damage:

• Hailstones break and expose paneling.
  
• Heavy snow can lead to water damage.
  
• Water damage wears away casing over time.
  
• Pebbles and leaves block energy production.
  
  

Panels are made of several small cells linked together. Because of this, hailstones and rocks can break apart the cells and expose the interior of the panel to moisture. While a team can repair covering if the panel damage is minimal, your best bet is to have severely broken panels replaced by a professional. If you can predict hail storms, consider investing in a cover to protect against roof damage.

How To Protect Your Panels From Damage Over Time

Water damage from rain and snow is a predictable and easily fixed issue. Over time, water can wear down the protective casing on your panels, exposing the interior and limiting energy production. Having your panels resealed periodically can help maximize your energy output.

General maintenance keeps paneling optimized throughout the year. This may include hiring a professional cleaner to maintain the panels out of reach or installing a monitoring system to keep track of energy production. Additionally, make sure to keep your panels free from debris, like leaves or stones transported by rough storms.

Solar paneling is built to withstand natural phenomena and can last over 20 years with proper attention. To inform yourself about the best ways of avoiding and addressing panel damage, contact an expert and get the most out of your energy system.

Commercial Fires: Cleaning Computers

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Get your computer back in working condition as soon as possible.

Commercial Fires: Cleaning Computers

Computer cleanup after a commercial fire can be intimidating. This is especially true if an electrical fire occurred that directly affected your equipment, or if your building suffered extensive damage in other areas that also needs prompt attention. However, there are three steps you can follow to get your computer back in working condition as soon as possible:

1. Remove memory or storage. The first cleanup step you should take it to remove your computers’ internal hard drive, memory or other storage components. This step is especially important if you have important business files stored on any of these devices, as you want to make every effort to preserve these documents.

2. Transfer documents and files. Move the files on your computer components to a working computer as soon as possible. You can even transfer them to cloud storage if needed, as long as you feel comfortable using an online service and have access to one after your electrical fire.

3. Call restoration professionals. While there are some steps, like the ones above, that you can take to protect your company computers after a fire, the truth is that commercial smoke damage restoration professionals are usually better prepared to handle any kind of damage an electronic sustains in a fire. They have special equipment to clean and restore almost any kind of gear you could have. They can also arrive quickly on the scene to assess the situation in most cases.

It can be challenging to put your computer’s fate in the hands of a stranger, but most St. Charles, IL, fire damage technicians understand the complexities and consequences of an electrical fire at your place of business and know-how to help you restore your workplace computers. They will also likely be able to keep you updated on every step of their cleanup plan, so you won’t have to wonder about the future of your equipment.

Water Damage: The Number One Reason You Need Business Insurance

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Water damaged warehouse in Elburn, IL.

The Number One Reason You Need Business Insurance

Water damage is a common problem for businesses. From clogged pipes to leaky lines, water accounts for hundreds of thousands of dollars in commercial property damage annually. Fortunately, business insurance covers most of the costs, if you have it. Most policies will cover the top four concerns for business owners: leaks, breaks, materials and restoration. Granted, the extent of coverage is different for every insurer, but some coverage is better than none.

1. Leaks

Leaks may be the most common plumbing issue for commercial properties, and depending on the size, they can be detrimental. Pinhole leaks are common in copper plumbing, and unfortunately, they may go unnoticed for some time because of their minimal size. Other common leaks are from cracks or failed sealants. All leaks should be covered as long as they are not a result of neglect.

2. Breaks

Broken pipes can occur suddenly but are likely the result of underlying damage. While these issues can cause significant water damage and are the result of wear and tear on a pipe, your insurer may still cover the costs because it is considered normal. However, if adjusters discover that the issue was caused by neglect, they may not provide coverage.

3. Materials

Most policies will cover not only the restoration of the plumbing but also the cost to replace any property that was damaged. For example, a company may need to tear out a wall to access the plumbing, and the insurer will cover the wall and the pipe. Also, there may be allowances in your policy for the replacement of other property, like stock or flooring.

4. Restoration

Water cleanup can be extensive after a plumbing failure, and most insurance companies will provide funding for hiring a disaster restoration specialist in the Elburn, IL, area. You may need to collect several estimates, but the costs should be covered.

Water damage is expensive to remedy, and as it is a common issue in commercial properties, it should be planned for in advance. The best preparation, however, is to have a sound business insurance policy.

The Fire Restoration Process

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

This is the aftermath of a fire in St. Charles, IL

The Fire Restoration Process

After you've had a fire in your St. Charles, IL, home, the harm to the structure as well as the soot and smoke damage can seem overwhelming. That's why it's important to call a fire restoration company as soon as possible for damage cleaning and repair. They have the experience, know-how and equipment to efficiently take care of the problem. Following the steps outlined below, they can work to get your life back to normal as soon as possible.

1. Initial Services

Once contacted, the restoration experts will come out to do any needed emergency repairs. Exposed areas can be boarded up, any pooled water from fire hoses removed, and security fencing installed.

2. Assessing the Damage

As soon as the emergency repairs are completed, the fire restoration technicians can take a close look at the situation. They check to see what structural damage has occurred and examine any smoke or water damage to know how to best address the problem.

3. The Cleanup Process

Once the correct course of action is determined, the restoration team begins the cleanup phase. If there is water damage, the affected areas are thoroughly dried out and sanitized. Smoke damage is addressed using specialized equipment and techniques. Anything too damaged to be salvaged is removed from the structure.

4. Repairs and Restoration

At this point, any structural repairs can take place. Holes in the walls or roof are fixed, broken pipes are mended and leaks from water tanks sealed. After the structural repairs are completed, the final restoration process begins. Wallpapering, carpet replacement and painting are done during this phase.

5. Preventative Consultation

After the work is completed, the restoration specialists may want to consult with you concerning measures you can take to prevent fires in the future. This can include things like installing an alert system or storing materials more safely.

Hopefully, this outline gives you a good idea of what's involved in the fire restoration process. Calling a restoration expert right away is essential after you've had a fire in your home, both for your peace of mind and for getting your property back to normal quickly.

Tips for Cleaning a Clogged Drain

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

One useful tool for clearing a clogged drain is the drain snake.

Finding a clogged drain in your Geneva, IL, home isn’t something most people look forward to. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to handle a situation like this. From clog prevention ideas to using a drain snake, here are a few things you may want to know.

How To Prevent Clogs

One of the first places to start is doing what you can to prevent clogs in the first place. Some steps you can take to avoid a stopped-up drain include:

• Use a sink strainer to prevent large debris from getting in the drain
  
• Use a hair trap for shower or bathroom sink drains
  
• Keep fats and grease out of your drains
  
• Don’t pour hardening materials, like plaster, down your drains
  
• Run cold water into the garbage disposal while in use
  
  

How To Use a Drain Snake

One useful tool for clearing a clogged drain is the drain snake. A drain snake is fairly straightforward to use. Simply insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle until you feel resistance which should indicate you’ve found the clog. Keep turning until you feel the clog loosen. Pull the snake out of the drain. The clog may be pulled out as well, or it may have been broken down. It’s best to run water into the drain for a few minutes to help finish flushing the system.

How To Take Care of a Broken Pipe

Sometimes a clog can lead to a sink overflow or a pipe break. When this is the case, you could end up with water damage in your home as well. A water damage professional can assess the situation, help you find the source of the problem, and help conduct repairs.

If you have a clogged drain, you may be able to clear it with a drain snake. Once clear you can prevent future problems by using a sink strainer. In the event the clog does lead to any water damage problems, a professional may be able to help.

Useful Information on Water Damage

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO responded quickly to begin mitigation after a water loss.

What To Know About Water Damage 

Water damage is one of the scariest things homeowners can think of. Many of them know what water damage entails. However, a few understand exactly what causes it, how to repair the damaged parts and how to ensure it never occurs again. Below is a list of everything you need to know about water damage.

Common Causes

Water damage and flood damage may occur if excess water accumulates in areas where it is not supposed to be. Several factors can cause this excess water in your business or home. The most common factors include pipe break, issues with the plumbing system, faulty household items, natural disasters, leaky roof, supply line break and improper grading. Many of these issues are difficult to detect during the early stages. They only become known after they cause serious damages.

Removing Standing Water

Removing standing water in a flooded home is the first step towards water damage restoration. It is important to get rid of the accumulated water in the home or business as soon as possible to allow the flooded areas to dry. Do not attempt to repair the flood damage yourself. Hire a reputable restoration company to do the water cleanup job on your behalf. A restoration company has well-trained and qualified personnel who know exactly where to start from and what to avoid.

Most likely, the restoration company experts will use a pump or any other tool to do water cleanup. They will remove the water from the flooded home and check to see if the cause is due to a pipe break, supply line break, or any other plumbing issues that might bring water in your home.

3 Steps for Creating Green Flood Prevention

11/26/2021 (Permalink)

Pay attention to where you place landscaping.

Three Steps to Green Flood Prevention

With the extreme weather created by global warming, business owners in North Aurora, IL, now have to think about flooding. Flood damage is a major hassle. Fortunately for you, there are three steps that can help you create green protection from storm damage.

1. Observe

The first step is to observe water flow and drainage around your business. Watch where the water goes during the next storm. Look for sources of running water. You may need to watch out for a small river from further up your street or off a neighbor’s roof.

Drainage is important for avoiding storm damage. Keep storm drains clear of debris. Check with your local government to see who is responsible for maintaining drains around your business.

2. Assess

Assess the drainage capability of the area surrounding your business. Asphalt and concrete don’t absorb any rain water. Even if you have grass or other landscaping, take a poke at it after the next rain storm. How well does water drain through that soil?

Walkways and the base of stairs are notorious for creating small pools. Does this happen around your business? How do they dry up? Would they contribute to flooding?

3. Create

Your landscaping can serve as a first barrier to floodwaters. A high berm with well-rooted shrubbery is far more attractive than a wall of sandbags. The same can be said of raised garden beds that create a welcoming atmosphere for your customers and clients. A rain garden is also an attractive way to prevent flood damage. These gardens purposely hold onto water and allow it to drain into the ground below.

Pay attention to where you place landscaping. The last thing you want to do is redirect water into your building. Think of the spaces between green areas as pathways for water. If you share a building with other businesses, landscaping and flood prevention is a shared investment in which all have a stake.

Flood damage can be minimized or avoided by taking certain preventative steps. However, should damage occur, contact recovery professionals as quickly as possible.

Banning Cigarette Odors From Your Home

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Ozone neutralizes the foul odors caused by cigarette smoke.

Getting Rid of Cigarette Odors in Your Home

Whether you smoke cigarettes or think it is a bad habit, you probably don’t enjoy the smell of stale cigarette smoke. Unfortunately, though, smoke odors from cigarettes and cigars can linger for decades in Batavia, IL, homes. You don’t have to put up with the smell of old cigarettes. By contracting with a restoration specialist for home deodorization, you can leave your home smelling fresh and clean.

A Holistic Cleanup Process
As you probably know, smoke from cigarettes has a funny way of getting virtually everywhere inside your home. When smoke contaminates walls, ceilings, furniture and other belongings, you need a holistic approach to removing it. Restoration professionals typically do the following to remove smoke odors:

• Open windows and doors to allow fresh air into your home
• Remove and replace all heating, air conditioning and other filters
• Scrub walls with ammonia and glycol
• Use a sealant to lock-in smoke odors on the walls and ceilings of your home
• Paint walls and ceilings with a fresh coat of latex paint
• Professionally clean all furniture, fixtures and personal belongings

Ozone
Cigarette and cigar smoke smell so badly because of the gases and toxic substances they release. When odors are extreme, restoration technicians often use ozone-generating machines for home deodorization. Ozone neutralizes the foul odors caused by cigarette smoke. Professionals simply plug in the machine, set a timer, and create ozone. Note, though, since ozone can be harmful to people, you must vacate your home when the ozone machine is creating the gas. Technicians repeat the process until all lingering odors are gone.
You don’t have to live with the unpleasant smell of old cigarettes. While removing ingrained odors is not necessarily simple for amateurs, professional restoration technicians deal with home deodorization all the time. With the right cleaning process and some assistance from ozone, your Batavia, IL, home can likely smell as if no one has ever puffed on a cigarette there.

3 Fast FAQs About Mold

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Geneva, IL home.

Mold: 3 Quick Answers

Treating mold growth in your Geneva, IL, home can be a daunting task. No matter what type you are dealing with or what caused it, eradicating it for good usually requires the assistance of a mold removal and cleanup company. However, asking a few questions about the growth, treatment and nature of this fungi may help you understand it a bit better and even help you prevent another invasion in the future.

1. What Causes Mold To Grow?

Mold spores are common in the air and can be found both indoors and out. However, when they find an environment with high humidity or dampness, they attach themselves to organic matter and multiply rapidly. Since mold does not require sunlight to grow, it can thrive in dark places, such as under cabinets, around toilet bases and in basements. The more moisture there is, the better the chances for mold growth.

2. What is Mold Remediation?

Once mold is discovered in your home and you call in a professional cleanup team, the technicians may perform immediate remediation to ensure the patches do not spread into other rooms. Remediation is meant to isolate the spores, which is usually performed with specialized tools, such as negative air chambers. This type of preventative care allows the technicians to move ahead with tear out work without risking the further spread of fungi spores.

3. How I Can Prevent Mold in the Future?

One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of mold in the future is to monitor your home’s plumbing and water lines. Water damage can cause leaks and puddling, and since moisture attracts mold spores, preventing these conditions may lower the risk of infestation. Keeping your home’s humidity levels low may also discourage mold from forming.

Calling in a professional mold growth eradication team is a wise choice when you find fungi in your Geneva, IL, home. Being prepared with a short list of questions may allow you understand the cleanup process more thoroughly and help you prevent mold from returning in the future.

6 Steps To Handle a Pipe Break

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Follow these steps to deal with bursting pipes and water damage in St. Charles, IL.

Bursting pipes can cause extensive damage in commercial property. There are several steps you can take to limit the extent of the damage.

1. Call a Plumber

Contact a plumber with an emergency work order to fix a broken pipe. If more than one person is on-site, one person should make the call while the other shuts off or collects water.

2. Shut Off the Water

Shutting off the flow of water to your building can limit the amount of water that can cause damage. Notify all occupants that the water is turned off.

3. Collect Water in Containers

Collect as much water from bursting pipes as possible in any containers you have on hand. Once again, if more than one person is present, you should cycle out containers as each becomes full. These containers will be heavy, and a sturdy cart may help prevent strain or injury.

4. Fix Broken Pipes

A plumber should resolve the source of the leak before you can start removing water and restoring the area. Continue to try to mitigate the damage until help arrives.

5. Eliminate All Standing Water

Use any method available such as buckets, mops, towels, or a wet vacuum to start getting rid of standing water. You may want to call commercial damage restoration professionals with specialized equipment to pump out water. Water from a burst pipe is clean Category One water. If water leaks through building materials to another floor, it becomes contaminated Category Two water.

6. Dry the Affected Area

Prevent mold or other secondary damage by completely drying the area affected by the leak. Use a dehumidifier to draw moisture out of porous or semi-porous building materials and contents.

Follow these steps to deal with bursting pipes and water damage in St. Charles, IL. A plumber can help stop the leak, and restoration experts can help prevent further damage.

5 Steps in Maintaining a Sump Pump

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

A sump pump plays a critical part in preventing groundwater from intruding into the basement or crawlspace of your home. This pump should be fully functional during flood or storm conditions. Follow these five pump maintenance steps to ensure your pump stays in working order.

1. Inspect Your Pump Before Heavy Rains

The pump should plug into a ground fault circuit interrupter outlet and should be standing upright. Try pouring a bucket of water into the pit. The pump should start automatically, and the water should drain. If the pump is not operational, schedule repairs as soon as possible or rely on a backup method.

2. Clean the Grate on Submersible Pumps

Raise the submersible pump and clean the bottom grate on a regular basis. The sucking action can pull small stones into the grate that block the inlet and cause damage over time.

3. Schedule Annual Maintenance

Groundwater tends to rise due to snowmelt or precipitation in late winter or early spring. This is an ideal season to make sure your pump is in working order.

4. Familiarize Yourself With the Pump Alarm

Most sump pumps have battery-powered water level alarms. Some systems can send an alert to your cell phone in the event of a flood or pump failure.

5. Consider Installing a Backup Pump

Choose from water-powered pumps that work without electricity, a battery-powered pump that uses a deep cycle boat battery, or a pump powered by a car battery. Or rely on a generator.

These five pump maintenance measures will ensure that the sump pump in your home works properly. You should have a backup plan in case you lose power during a storm in St. Charles, IL. If groundwater backs up into your crawlspace or basement, contact a residential restoration company to make sure building materials are still viable and to prevent mold.

Comparing and Contrasting Mold and Mildew

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Generally speaking, materials that have sustained mold damage will not be salvageable because the infiltration is not superficial.

As any homeowner in St. Charles, IL, can attest, the unwelcome appearance of mold and mildew might be a matter of when not if. Both can proliferate in many environments, needing only moisture and nutrition to colonize quickly. And while they share many similarities, there are some significant differences in how to remediate them once they’ve taken up residence. Mold damage is typically more serious than mildew.

Fungi Unknown Facts

There are roughly 100,000 known types of fungi throughout the world, and some are not only beneficial but also delicious, such as mushrooms. What makes them unique from other types of plants is that they digest their nutrition externally before absorbing it. Both mold and mildew are fungi and can thrive on porous materials found in homes such as:

• Paper
• Wood
• Walls
• Insulation
• Fabric

Mildew Versus Mold

Mildew is white, whereas mold can take on many colors, including red, green, blue, orange, and black, depending on the species. Because mildew stays on the surface of the material on which it grows, removing it can be simple if the surface can be scrubbed with a cleaning solution in a well-ventilated area. Mildew can be thought of as a nuisance and a benign indication that there is too much moisture collecting in a given area.

Mold damage, on the other hand, infiltrates porous surfaces that have been exposed to excessive humidity or water, and it is more challenging to remediate. It is best to allow professionals to step in and make an assessment. The first step is to identify the source of moisture and address it. Materials like wallpaper and drywall are likely to require replacement. Once the mold growth has been removed, there are products on the market that inhibit regrowth, such as specially treated drywall and paints.

Generally speaking, materials that have sustained mold damage will not be salvageable because the infiltration is not superficial. Keeping a home as dry as possible can inhibit mold and mildew growth.

How To Choose an Air Purifier To Remove Mold Particles From the Air

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the right people trained and the right equipment ready for any of your mold needs.

How to Pick An Air Purifier To Get Mold Particles Out Of The Air

Battling mold in your St. Charles, IL, home can be a challenge. Mold tends to spread quickly and reduces your home's air quality, and once it takes hold, it can cause an unpleasant odor and damage building materials. Using quality air filtration in your home can eliminate mold particles from the air; however, there are a few factors you may want to consider as you compare different brands and models to choose a system that best suits your needs.

Filter Quality

The quality of the filter in an air purifier can make a significant difference when it comes to removing mold particles from the air. Generally, systems with HEPA filters, such as in the Oransi Max, are effective in removing not only mold spores but other impurities:

• Bacteria
• Pet Dander
• Dust

Consulting a restoration and mold remediation company before choosing a system with a high-quality HEPA filter can help you feel confident about removing damaging mold particles from the air before they can take hold inside your home.

Ease of Use

Air filtration systems that remove mold spores from the air and are designed for convenience can be a good choice if you want clean air with a push of a button. These models, such as the Oransi OV200, have a user-friendly design and can be operated with a remote control. Other features include an air quality sensor and a HEPA filter.

Budget

Working with a limited budget does not have to mean foregoing an air filtration system for your home. Some models, such as the Honeywell True HEPA Air Purifier, 50250-S, cost under $200 and are designed to remove mold particles, pet dander and other irritants from the air. This model also includes a long-lasting filter for even greater savings.

The right air filtration system can help remove mold particles from the air inside your St. Charles, IL, home. Taking the time to consider which system best suits your needs and budget before you shop can help you choose wisely.

3 Tips for Cleaning Up After Your Home Is Damaged by Water

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help you with the cleanup process when you 're dealing with water damage in your home.

3 Cleaning Suggestions After Water Damage To Your Home

When you think of water damage, you might think of issues caused by heavy rains or hurricanes. However, your Geneva, IL, home can be affected by flooding as the result of a plumbing disaster or a failed water appliance, such as a washing machine or dishwasher. When this type of problem occurs, there are a few steps you can take to clean up the water and assess the damage.

1. Avoid Flooded Rooms

Water from your dishwasher or washing machine can contain detergent chemicals that might harm your skin, and a malfunctioning water heater may burst and give you serious burns. It is wise to shut off the water supply to the broken appliance and then seal the room until help arrives. Do not let anyone go into the room, especially if you know electrical systems might have been damaged.

2. Call in Restoration Services

A professional flood cleanup and restoration company can help get the cleanup process started when you are dealing with water damage. Flood technicians may assist with removing any remaining water and advise you on what kind of repairs you might need to make. For example, if broken pipes have caused a flood in your kitchen, restoration experts can help you understand whether wall sections or flooring can be repaired or if they will need replacing.

3. Sort Through Wet Items

Once the area is safe to enter, you can then take stock of water damage by retrieving wet items and sorting them. Dry what you can in a low-humidity area, out of direct sunlight, and then disinfect smaller objects. You may want to ask your restoration company which items are safe to keep and which you must throw away after the water cleanup.

When a water appliance breaks and causes a flood in your Geneva, IL, home, it can cause a variety of problems. However, knowing how to deal with water damage may go a long way in keeping you safe and preventing long-term harm to your home.

Put a Business Continuity Plan in Place

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

Create a business continuity plan for your business.

Create a Business Continuity Plan

A continuity plan helps businesses remain operational during natural disasters, such as flooding. With approved plans in place, North Aurora, IL, businesses may receive premium discounts from their insurance companies. In some cases, business continuity allows otherwise unacceptable risks to qualify for insurance. With the right plan in place, day-to-day operations may continue, and the repercussions can be kept to a minimum.

Considering Benefits of the Plan

Other benefits of having this type of plan in place include:

• Increased customer confidence
  
• Decreased risk of injury or death
  
• A competitive edge
  
• Security of the supply chain and order fulfilment
  
• Business resilience
  
• Reduced financial losses
  
  

A business continuity plan establishes the steps and procedures administrators and employees should follow when major disruptions occur, including natural disasters

and man-made attacks on the business. The plan covers steps to take for the protection of human resources, inventory, and assets. Before it’s possible to establish a plan, it is necessary to identify areas of vulnerability and potential loss.

Creating a Continuity Plan

The first step in creating an effective plan is to identify the scope of the potential disaster. The second step is to identify crucial business areas and vital functions. The next step is outlining links between those areas and functions, giving special attention to functions that may suffer when one area of business is disrupted. The fourth step of this process is to determine how long it is acceptable for any critical functions to go down. Finally, put together the plan for maintaining core business operations during the course of flooding, snow storms, or burst pipes and a plan for bringing the business fully back into operation as storm damage and losses are assessed.

Testing the Plan

After creating the plan, it’s necessary to run a simulation to establish whether the plan fulfills its purpose. It’s best to put the plan through a challenging series of tests to improve the level of preparation. Most experts recommend testing two to four times a year. Work with commercial restoration businesses to develop a plan that keeps your business operational.

What Happens to You Solar Panels During a Storm?

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Solar panels in a house in Elburn, IL.

During a Storm, What Happens To Your Solar Panels?

Storms of all sizes come through Elburn, IL, during various parts of the year. Many of these storms cause little concern and do little, if any, damage to your home. This doesn’t mean you don’t worry about the possibility of weather doing harm to your home. For example, high winds, rain and other conditions may beat upon the solar panels in your roof. It’s important to understand what these items can withstand.

Hail Stones

Hail storms may be rare in your area, but when they hit, they can create problems for homeowners. You may be worried about panel damage when hail starts falling. However, you can have peace of mind knowing that these panels should be in good shape under these conditions.

• The panels are made of tempered glass and highly flexible material.
• The panels are built to withstand impact from rock, hail, or other materials.
• Panels are usually only damaged from hail when stones hit the same spot repeatedly.

Wind

This probably worries you more than hailstones, especially if you live in an area where hurricanes are common. While high winds can cause roof damage, they are much less likely to cause panel damage. This is because your solar panels are designed to withstand up to 140-mph winds. This means they can hold up against hurricanes and certainly other less potent storms.

Snow and Rain

If you purchase a high-quality set of panels, they should last 25 years or more. They are well-equipped to do their jobs well in the middle of a rainstorm or a snowstorm. The glass portion of the panels has protection to ward off any negative effects from precipitation.

When you purchased your solar panels, you may have been concerned that they would succumb to the elements. However, you shouldn’t have to worry about panel damage, no matter what the weather is like outside.

Removing Persistent and Reoccurring Mold Growth

7/24/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage in North Aurora, IL.

Getting Rid of Mold Growth That Is Persistent and Recurring

Incidents of mold growth in North Aurora, IL, that are persistent and reoccurring are oftentimes the result of high humidity conditions lingering behind after events of water damage. Even in relatively low-humidity areas of the country, the ambient conditions necessary to foster the spread of mold in your business can still be created in small spaces where water collects.

Discovering Common Water Problems

The following conditions may lead to significant molding due to their potential to create highly humid environments:

• Condensation from appliances: Small puddles may form when pipes on common appliances accumulate water droplets from condensation. Water heaters, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and washing machines all have piping that may not be properly insulated and could cause puddling.

• Rainwater leaks: A leaky roof, door seal, or window seal can channel water into a store or office building. Check the upper and side portions of doors and windows for damaged seals, as well as the bottom seal.

• Damaged water pipes: Kitchens and bathrooms are the most obvious places to check for water leaks. Be sure to look for mold growth in areas that are difficult to access, such as the far corners underneath sinks and the piping behind toilets.

• Absorbent materials: Materials such as wood, carpet, and insulation stay saturated long after they have been in contact with water. In small and confined spaces these types of materials may allow for mold to grow unnoticed.

Repairing Water Sources and Removing Mold

Mold that reappears in the same area is a sign that water problems are causing the reoccurrences. Any place where water is present can create a micro-environment of high humidity, leading to pooling moisture and the right conditions to grow hyphae — the principal structure of spreading fungi. Stopping incidents of reoccurring mold growth requires the proper identification and repair of water leaks at their source and the handling of the existing mold by a professional service that specializes in its removal.

Furnace Maintenance: 3 Times To Have a Checkup Performed

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Having your unit cleaned and service can ensure it will work for you when you need it the most.

Furnace Maintenance

Your Geneva,IL home’s furnace keeps your home warm and toasty all winter long while providing you with simple and energy-efficient usage. However, a neglected furnace might result in higher energy bills, uneven heating and other issues. A fire cleaning and restoration service can advise you about the most efficient way to use your home’s furnace, and knowing when to call them in for help and maintenance might help you get the most out of your heating unit.

1. After Summer Ends

Once the warm weather ends and fall sets in, it is wise to have your furnace inspected and tuned up. Call in a heating and cooling service to clean and inspect the ducts, replace the air filters and put in a digital thermostat if you do not yet have one. Having your unit cleaned and service can ensure it will work for you when you need it the most.

2. After a Major Storm

Heavy snow and ice can affect your home’s power system and cause shorts and outages that might affect the furnace. After a serious storm, have techs come in to check that the furnace’s power supply is stable and that no major systems have been damaged. If your furnace experienced a short, ask your techs about smoke cleaning services that can eliminate any unpleasant smells.

3. When You Hear Odd Noises

If your furnace starts to make strange noises, such as banging, groaning or rattling, these could be signs of a malfunction in the making. Contact your fire cleaning and restoration service for advice and have their technicians help you find a furnace specialist, if needed, or to have them come out and inspect the unit. Not all noises are cause for alarm, but you may want to investigate any sound you do not recognize.

Keeping your Geneva,IL, home’s furnace maintained can ensure years of trouble-free service. Whether you call in a fire cleaning and safety company or a local furnace specialist, it is a good idea to include proper furnace maintenance at the top of your to-do list.

Why You Should Get Water Damage Remediation After a Fire

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

House fire damage in Geneva, IL.

Why You Should Get Water Damage Remediation After a Fire

After a fire, most homeowners focus on repairing the damage caused by the flames, smoke and soot. However, there is another pressing matter following fire damage in Geneva, IL. You also need to handle any water damage that may have occurred from the fire or from the firefighters’ efforts to contain the flames. A lot of water may come out of the fire hose to eliminate the fire, and you need to make sure you can restore your valuables from the water, too.

1. Prevent Mold

As with a flood in your basement, your biggest concern should be related to mold buildup. It only takes about 24 hours for mold to start to grow. Whether there are spots of flooding in your home from the relief efforts or from a burst pipe, you need to get rid of the moisture posthaste. You should always leave this work to the fire damage remediation professionals because it is dangerous to attempt to remove mold when you do not know what you are doing.

2. Eliminate Water Contamination

Even if everything seems to be all right on the surface, there could be contamination in your water supply. You need to have experts check the water in your pipes to ensure it is not filled with soot. You may need to check with your local and state environmental agencies to make sure the water is safe for consumption. Either way, you should avoid consuming the water or letting it come into contact with your skin until someone tells you it is safe.

It is always preferable to let professionals handle fire damage remediation so that you do not put yourself in harm’s way. Experts know how to look through an entire house to make sure every inch is secure. Professionals are also knowledgeable and know how to locate small problems that could escalate out of control if not handled properly.

5 Reasons Your Business Needs Flood Coverage

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage in Batavia, IL.

5 Reasons Your Business Needs Flood Coverage

When it comes to flood insurance for your commercial building in Batavia, IL, you may think this is an extra policy you don't need. After all, won't your commercial policy cover any water damages done to your property? However, most commercial storm damage restoration professionals will tell you this is coverage you should get for your business.

1. Flooding might not be covered by property insurance. This of course depends on your policy, but most commercial insurance policies don't help pay for damages done by flooding caused by storms. Your policy could cover some sources of water damage, but you may feel better if you equip yourself with a policy that provides more protection.

2. It can help you replace your belongings. If your business equipment is damaged during a storm's deluge, you may be able to get some help replacing the items. This assistance can help you get your company back up and running quickly after a disaster.

3. It can cover you from various sources of flooding. Most flood insurance policies will cover a wide range of standing water sources, including ice dams, overflowing rivers, blocked sewage systems, or snow melt. Talk with your insurance agent to find out which ones apply for your coverage.

4. You may be at high risk for flooding. Some areas have a higher flood risk than others. If your property is in a low-lying area or hurricanes are common in your locale, you may want to strongly consider adding a specialty policy to your coverage.

5. It can help you remove mold caused by standing water. After water permeates your building, you have a risk of accruing secondary damage, such as mold growth. Many policies for floods will help pay for restoration after mold damage is found.

Flood insurance can help protect your property and your business from damages caused by a storm. Without a special policy added to your property insurance, you may have a major gap in your coverage.

Why You Need a Professional Response to Home Flooding

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Drying equipment placed in a home.

Residential Flooding

Once your St. Charles, IL, home has been exposed to flood damages, it's important to take steps to avoid secondary damage. This type of damage occurs when the materials of your home suffer because of indirect exposure to water or contamination. Some of the results include the growth of black mold or swelling wood floors. There are several common causes of this type of damage.

• Flooding wasn't cleaned up completely or soon enough.
• Type of dehumidification wasn't adequate for the circumstances.
• Areas of exposure were overlooked during the assessment phase of recovery.
  
  

Water Extraction Machines

If your home has been affected by flooding, your wet/dry vacuum, air conditioner, and fans won't have enough impact on the high humidity levels resulting from the presence of so much water. Professional extraction machines quickly remove water without giving it time to evaporate as quickly into the air of your home. The speed of water removal also decreases the chances of excess water getting under the walls and other hidden areas of the home.

Dehumidification Equipment

As water evaporates in the home, it will condense on parts of the home that hadn't initially been affected by the flooding. Porous materials, such as the wall materials, then become ideal for the growth of black mold. Professional-strength high-volume dehumidifiers are necessary to remove as much moisture from the air as possible, as quickly as possible.

Professional-Strength Fans

High-speed fans are also necessary to prevent standing water from seeping into the porous materials of your home and furnishing. Household fans could be used in a pinch, but if you have access to professional-strength fans, they are the best option.

Protect Your Home With Professional Results

As soon as your home has been affected by flooding, protect it, your furnishings, and your family from the effects of secondary damage. Reach out to flood restoration professionals with the equipment and training to prevent black mold, permanently damaged wood, expensive reconstruction, and all of the other damage that could occur. Check with your insurance company concerning flooding policies.

Preventing Mold Growth in the Bathroom

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a bathroom

Preventing Mold Growth in the Bathroom

The bathroom of your Elburn, IL, home is likely to experience mold growth at some point. This could result from a water damage event, such as a pipe break or leak, or general high humidity. Understanding what causes mold can help you better prevent it from occurring.

Necessary Conditions
It may seem like mold can grow anywhere, but there are several factors that must coexist before a fungal infestation occurs. Mold needs the following to grow:

• Water
• Food
• Warmth
  

Unfortunately, food sources for mold are abundant, and most indoor locations are sufficiently warm to sustain fungi. Water is the prerequisite for mold over which homeowners have the most control.

Preventive Strategies
The bathroom is often the most humid room in a home, making it exceptionally prone to mold growth. Mold prevention relies heavily on keeping the area as dry as possible. Clean up water damage as soon as possible. For extensive damage, it may be necessary to enlist the help of a professional restoration team with the tools and experience to address the issue quickly and thoroughly.
If your bathroom is equipped with an exhaust fan, turn it on before taking a shower and for approximately 30 minutes afterward. If you do not have an exhaust fan, opening the window after you get out of the shower allows the humid air to escape. A portable dehumidifier can be run on days when the outdoor humidity is too high to open the windows.
If your bathroom has grout, apply a sealant once a year to minimize water penetration and scrub the grout regularly to remove any mold growth before it spreads. Mold-resistant paint can be applied to the walls and ceiling to minimize the opportunity for mold to colonize those locations. Other surfaces can be sprayed with a mold inhibiting spray.
Mold prevention may seem complex in a room as humid as the bathroom, but a few simple steps can streamline the process. Keep the bathroom as dry as possible, clean up water damage quickly, use mold inhibiting products and clean up visible mold before it spreads.

Securing Your Facility After a Fire

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Secure your building and valuables to prevent secondary losses.

Tasks To Complete After A Business Fire

It is possible to continue business after a fire in Batavia, IL, but the steps you take after fire damage can determine how quickly it happens. Here are tasks to complete after a business fire.

Document Damages
Many things happen at once following a disaster, so it's imperative to keep records of expenses and activity as much as possible. Something you think you will remember may escape you later. Your documentation may include:

• Photos of the damage
  
• Receipts you incur during fire mitigation
  
• Names and phone numbers of companies and agencies you contact
  
  

Safeguard Your Property
After fire damage, board up doors and windows immediately and put tarps on any holes in the roof. Securing the building will deter vandals and thieves. Keep receipts of fire cleanup expenses to provide to the insurance company.

Hire Security
A fire-damaged building can be an open invitation for looting. Check with your local police department to see if they can patrol the area. You may need to hire private security, though, as the police may not be available on a round-the-clock basis for your building.

Turn Off Utilities
To avoid any chances of another fire, have your gas and electric power turned off at the meter. Shut off the water supply at the main valve. Before resuming services, call your utility company to inspect the building and clear it for use.

Remove Valuable Property
Retrieve valuable papers and property after the fire department permits you to enter the facility. You may need to collect inventory records, employee documentation, insurance policies and business permits. If you can safely access credit cards, checkbooks or money from the premises, remove those items as well. Ask a fire professional about precautions to take before opening a safe, which may cause the things inside to ignite if opened too early.
As soon as you can safely get to your property, secure your building and valuables to prevent secondary losses such as additional fire damage and looting.

Candle Alternatives That Leave Your House Smelling Fresh Without the Fire Risk

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid fire damage in your home by using candle alternatives.

Three Perfect Candle Alternatives For Your Home

Some scent enthusiasts are candle-obsessed but are seeking alternatives for a decreased fire risk. Scent-producing products are being reconsidered by homeowners in St. Charles, IL, who prefer to keep their homes safe from fire hazards. These include:

• Flame candles
  
• Incense burners
  
• Tealight wax warmers
  
  

The open flame from candle products opens homes to a fire risk. Here are some candle alternatives that will keep a home smelling fresh and free from a candle fire.

Essential Oil Diffusers
Essential oils are non-synthetic fragrant oils used for aromatherapy, candles, natural soaps and lotions. Essential oil diffusers use a blend of essential oil and water to disperse a scented mist into the air. The mechanism uses an electronic method to create vapor, eliminating with it a fire hazard. Some essential oil diffusers light up to provide an imitation flicker.

Plugins and Flameless Candles
For those wanting to create a romantic environment with the look of candles, there are flameless candle alternatives. These are often made of LED lights and a wax or plastic base. They are battery-powered and can be purchased with remote controls. Some are also made with a timer installed for automatic shut-off. Flameless candles can be paired with plugins for scent.

Electric Wax Warmers
Wax warmers are usually made of a ceramic base that holds scented wax cubes to diffuse the scent without the flame. Some are made to warm the wax with a tealight candle. It is important to purchase an electric wax warmer to keep a house protected from open flames. Like diffusers, wax warmers can be purchased with a flicker option.
Candle alternatives are an excellent option to create an enhanced home environment without the hazard of an open flame. Like candles, they provide homeowners the option of infusing scent into their homes. In case of a candle fire, contact a local fire damage restoration service to repair and restore damaged property.

6 Tips for Extending the Life of Your Building's Roof

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Ceiling damaged due to water leak from roof.

Preventive Measures To Avoid Havoc On Your Building's Roof

Even a minor roof leak has the ability to create workplace disruption. Leakages are naturally more prone to occurring when you neglect basic roofing maintenance duties. Here are six ways to help keep yours in shape so that storms are less likely to create situations where hiring a commercial storm restoration expert becomes necessary.

1. Fix Leaks
As soon as you identify water seeping into your building, have the matter fixed. Failure to do so may result in severe complications with air ducts and electrical systems.

2. Perform Inspections
Pay a professional roofing expert to evaluate your roof annually. This can help assure that any developing roof leak in Geneva, IL, is corrected before it has an opportunity to worsen.

3. Stay Off
The more pressure you place on your roof, the quicker it becomes prone to needing attention. Walk elsewhere unless absolutely necessary. If you must step on tiles, use walking pads.

4. Hire Professionals
Placing faith in the abilities of construction workers that lack experience or credentials is a bad decision. Their lower costs may be tempting, but you will likely wind up paying even more after their subpar work causes problems. Licensed professionals are much more capable of properly executing repair duties.

5. Stay Clean
In addition to wind damage, storms cause roofs to get covered in leaves and branches. Debris has the potential to clog drains and promotes algae growth. Clear your roof year-round, paying particular attention to eaves in the fall.

6. Examine Equipment
When air conditioning units leak, roofing damage is often an unpleasant outcome. Make sure yours is not the source of a worsening problem. Hire a roofing expert to handle any issue the moment one is detected.
A roof leak is the last thing any office manager wants to deal with. Thankfully, the likelihood of one occurring can be lessened with a few preventive measures. Use these tips to reduce the odds of water seeping into your building and creating havoc.

3 Times Homeowner’s Insurance Doesn’t Cover a Flooded Basement

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Your homeowner's insurance doesn't cover every type of water damage.

When Is Flood Not Covered?

Unfortunately, there are plenty of sources for a basement flood in your home in Elburn, IL, that your homeowner's insurance will not cover. The following sources are common examples of when the flood is not covered.

1. Storms
A basement flood from a natural disaster is generally not covered by your insurance. This means you should have a sump pump in your unfinished basement. If you have a finished basement, you should take other measures to keep water out. For all situations with rising water levels, flood insurance is your best bet. This type of policy offers insurance coverage for your personal belongings. In other words, they will pay to replace your items or have them dried by a water restoration company that offers content cleaning.

2. Sewage Backups
If sewage backs up and floods your basement, it will probably not be covered under a standard policy. This type of disaster is the most expensive and can cause a lot of damage. Fortunately, you can combat it by purchasing an additional clause on your insurance policy. Just make sure that you get at least $10,000 of coverage. Otherwise, they could leave you footing a lot of the bill for the restoration work.

3. Groundwater Seepage
A basement flood caused by groundwater seepage is generally not covered. You may notice these after heavy rain strikes as water seeps through the cracks in your foundation. Your insurance company considers this a non-coverable calamity. This is also typically not covered by flood insurance. The best way to prevent this type of disaster is to ensure that your foundation is solid. Also, reseal your basement walls periodically. This will prevent any water from entering, so you don't have to worry about paying for the damage.
Your homeowner's insurance doesn't cover every type of water damage. These are just some of the sources of a flooded basement that your insurance company will likely exclude from your policy.

Restoration Companies Service Both The Client and The Adjuster

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia we can help.

Is a restoration company working for the client or the insurance adjuster? It's tempting to think that the operation is designed to fight solely for one side. The business relationship, however, is symbiotic, supporting all of the involved parties. Here's what the establishment does and why they're right for everyone.

What Does a Restoration Company Do?

A restoration business is a one-stop-shop for water damage repairs. Designed to serve multiple needs, establishments such as SERVPRO house specialists in various fields, offering assistance throughout an entire project. By having everyone connected to one place, cleanup is streamlined for efficient project management. Organizations start the job and finish it, following through on all of the following demands:

• air and structural testing
  
• drying methods
  
• content cleaning
  
• mold contamination and cleanup
  
• building repairs
  
• vent cleaning
  
  

How Does This Connection Benefit Owners?
An insurance adjuster requires specific documentation before financial assistance is permitted. When owners use multiple companies to tend to different projects, this complicates matters and slows approval. Remediation crews step in and aid in this process. The specialists from the first moment begin to take photographs and assess the premises, noting conditions within an electronic system. This information is then sent overall as one, saving proprietors time and headache. Owners step back and have someone take over the hassle.

How Does the Service Assist Insurers?
An insurance claim should arrive in the appropriate language and with the necessary support. Armed with this awareness, staff create submissions in the correct format. This avoids rewrites, frustration and delays.
Also, certified professionals determine what is wrong on the property and how the trouble should be repaired. Following national standards, insurers may trust the team to complete the work accurately.
Of course, keeping costs down is vital. A water restoration company arrives immediately to secure and contain the premises. These actions and the effort to salvage what is possible reduce the overhead.
A claim doesn't have to be a battle between the insurance adjuster and owner. When a remediation company is hired, communication improves, and workload lessens, creating a desirable collaborative union for commercial owners and insurers.

Why Do I Need a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile?

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is an excellent way to minimize your downtime after a disaster.

Is your business prepared if a disaster strikes? Sadly, for many businesses, the answer is no. Research indicates that nearly half of businesses that are affected by a disaster never reopen. Insurance is important, but it’s not always enough. Creating an emergency profile with an experienced restoration company can give your business a huge advantage if the unthinkable happens.

Why Do I Need a READY Profile?

After a disaster like a flood or fire, most businesses will need to remain closed until restoration work is complete. Every day that your business is closed is not only a day that you aren’t bringing in any money, but it’s also a day that your customers are looking elsewhere and a day that your competition is gaining an edge. Time is of the essence after an emergency, and anything that can help get your restoration underway more quickly can be a game-changer. A SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is an excellent way to minimize your downtime after a disaster.

What Is a READY Profile?
Developing an emergency profile for your business has many benefits that can save you valuable time after a flood or fire. An ERP does the following:

• Identifies your chosen North Aurora, IL, restoration company
  
• Establishes key business contacts who can authorize work
  
• Consolidates important information such as insurance policy numbers and contacts into one convenient place
  
• Stores critical facility facts such as the location of shut-off valves
  
• Provides a custom action plan with the exact steps you should take in an emergency
  
  

How Do I Get Started?
To start creating your READY Profile, first go to SERVPRO.com/ready to register for an account and create a username and password. After you register, you can designate your preferred SERVPRO location and add information about your business. Then, download the ERP App onto your smartphone or tablet, and log in.
Don’t let your business become a statistic. Setting up an emergency profile before disaster strikes will help you reopen as soon as possible.

4 Dos and Don'ts of Putting Out a Grease Fire

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Grease fire

How To React And What To Do If A Grease Fire Breaks Out

Cooking a tasty meal in your St. Charles, IL, home can be an enjoyable way for you to express your creativity. However, stovetop cooking can present some dangers, especially when you use frying oils. If a grease fire should break out, knowing how to react and what to avoid can prevent the blaze from spreading and allow you to extinguish it quickly.

1. Do Not Move the Pan or Pot

If a pot or pan should catch fire, avoid trying to grab the handle or moving the container off the fire, even with a potholder. The movement might cause the burning oil to splash and spread the blaze. Turn off the burner instead and step away from the stove until the danger has passed.

2. Do Cover the Fire

If the fire is small, cautiously cover it with a metal lid. This should snuff the grease fire by leeching the oxygen from it. Avoid removing the cover until the pot or pan cools. If your appliance, walls or ceiling have sustained damage, call in a fire cleanup and restoration company to inspect the area and advise you about repairs.

3. Do Not Use Water on the Fire

While your first instinct may be to throw water on a stovetop fire, doing so can spread it quickly and increase the risk of burns from splashing. If the fire is contained within the pan, you can put it out with baking soda or a small kitchen fire extinguisher.

4. Do Call 911 Right Away

If you cannot stop the fire from spreading, evacuate your home immediately and call 911 from a secure location once everyone exits. Trying to contain a spreading fire on your own is highly dangerous and may result in serious injury.

Your St. Charles, IL, home’s kitchen can be a source of culinary joy and adventure. However, it also comes with potential risks, such as the outbreak of a grease fire, but knowing how to react can prevent a larger blaze and allow you to contain it safely.

How To Prevent and Handle Mold Contamination

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Mold containment in Batavia, IL.

Mold Containment and Cleanup Process

Finding mold in your building is a serious matter in Batavia, IL, and leaving it unattended and untreated is a big mistake. When it comes to mold cleanup and restoring your business, it is important to take the appropriate steps to prevent mold from spreading to other areas of your building. If you do not take measures to prevent cross-contamination, your mold situation could get out of hand quickly and lead to costly damage.
There are several steps in the mold containment and cleanup process, including:

• Isolating the affected area
• Cutting off airflow
• Creating negative pressure
• Removing mold and damage
• Restoring the building

Containment
Isolating the mold colony is important for limiting fungal spread. Sealing windows and doors, covering air vents, and using physical barriers are effective ways to keep the growth from creeping into other parts of the building. Shutting off air flow and creating negative pressure keeps mold spores from becoming airborne and traveling to other surfaces and rooms.

Mold Removal
Once the area is sealed off and the air from the contaminated area has been removed, you can begin the mold removal process. You should treat all infested areas with antimicrobial and antibacterial solutions and discard any items that are damaged by the mold. Enlisting the help of professional mold cleanup and remediation services will ensure the infestation has been removed completely and the risk of additional mold contamination has been eliminated.

Restoration
After removing the mold, you can begin restoring your building. This process can include minor repairs, such as putting fresh paint on walls and replacing carpets. However, in more severe cases, some parts of your building may require reconstruction.
It is important to understand the different steps in the remediation process to take effective action against a mold infestation. Starting the mold cleanup process as soon as you spot the problem can save your business from suffering major damage and costly repairs.

What You Should Know About Basement Flooding

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in Geneva, IL

Basements and crawlspaces are spaces within your home that are most susceptible to damage from flooding. If you’ve experienced significant rainfall, burst pipes, or poor drainage around the house, you may find yourself dealing with serious water damage for your home in Geneva, IL. Cracks and holes in basement walls provide entry points for water to seep in and cause damage to the structure as well as any belongings.

Dealing With Basement Water

If you encounter water in your basement or crawlspace, it’s best to act quickly and consult a professional water damage restoration company. These providers can arrive fast to remove water damage and make sure your home is dry. Water damage remediation for your basement is likely to follow this basic process:

• Removal of water using specialized equipment
• Drying of objects and surfaces using advanced techniques
• Cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, including remediation of mold
• Examination and clearing of drains, gutters and downspouts
• Repair of objects and items damaged by water
• Repair and elimination of source issue, including leak and pipe repair

Getting the Big Picture
Professional water damage restorers not only have the tools, experience and knowledge to deal with a basement flood, but they’re also prepared to deal with the situation at any time of the day. Flooding in your basement is an emergency situation. Professionals act quickly to prevent further damage, ensuring that the source of the problem is resolved and that your home is dry. If items can be repaired instead of replaced, these experts know the best way to restore and recover impacted belongings, including furniture, documents and other valuables.
Flooding presents a serious issue for any basement or crawlspace in a residence. There’s no job that’s too big or too small for water restoration specialists to quickly address. A DIY approach probably isn’t comprehensive enough to bring your basement to pre-damage conditions.

Avoiding Income Loss From Fire Damage

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Structure fire

When your business in Elburn, IL, suffers from fire damage, the lost income can be devastating. Fortunately, through the use of interruption insurance and fire restoration services, these losses can be minimized.

Causes of Interruption

After a fire, interruptions to operating activities can be a result of several causes:

• Structural damage to your building may make it unsafe to work in.
• Damaged equipment can make it impossible to complete tasks or create goods.
• Lost data can hinder your ability to work.
• Lost inventory can put you behind schedule and reduce potential income.
• Injured employees may require time off that could slow operations or make some services impossible.

Restoration
The quickest way to get your business up and running again is to hire a fire restoration service in St. Charles, IL, to repair the damage. They can repair structural damage, repair damaged equipment. This will make your equipment usable and the office safe enough to work in again. They may even be able to restore damaged documents and electronics, helping minimize the amount of data and information lost.

Insurance
Business income coverage can include interruption insurance that covers losses from the inability to operate. If you have insurance that includes losses from a business interruption, you can file a claim to receive up to the amount of capital you would have earned had your business been operational during the amount of time it took to repair the damage. It may also help cover additional expenses and lost rental income if applicable.
Losses from a business interruption can be stressful and the financial losses could be detrimental for your company. Investing in interruption insurance could save you a fortune should you ever experience a fire. If you suffer from fire damage, hire a fire restoration service to help you get back to normal operations as quickly as possible. Doing those two things will reduce stress, lost time, and financial losses.

3 Tips for Preventing Sewage Backup

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Don't pour grease down the drain

Prevent Sewage Problems In Your Home

A sewage backup can occur in your basement, bathtub, toilets, and sinks, causing flooding and property damage. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of encountering sewage problems.

1. Don't Pour Cooking Oil in Your Drains
Many people attempt to dispose of cooking oil by pouring it into their sink drain or toilet. Cooking oil can harden in your drains and make it more difficult for debris, such as hair and food particles, to drain. This creates clogs in your pipes, which can lead to sewage problems. Dispose of cooking oil by pouring it into a heat-resistant container and throwing it in the trash after it cools.

2. Maintain Your Sewage System
To prevent sewage backup, keep your sewage system well maintained. Check your sump pump pit for debris that could be sucked into the pump causing damage and make sure the pump has a filter to prevent debris from storm damage from getting inside the pump. If a malfunctioning sump pump has caused a flood in your basement, consider contacting a flood mitigation company in St. Charles, IL, to remove the water. Additionally, avoid clogs by periodically having a professional sewer cleaning performed to remove the debris that can accumulate in your sewer lines. It is also a good idea to have regular inspections done to check for damage to the lines.

3. Prevent Tree Root Damage
If the sewer line that runs through your yard is older, consider replacing it with a new plastic pipe. Plastic pipes are much more resistant to damage from tree roots than lines made from clay and cast iron. If tree root issues persist, periodically trim your roots or remove trees that are too close to the sewer line.
Sewage backup in your home can pose a safety risk and lead to property damage. These three tips can help you prevent sewage problems in your home.

How To Keep Your Company's Irrigation System Running Properly

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Irrigation maintenance is an essential part of keeping your building’s infrastructure standing tall

Irrigation maintenance is an essential part of keeping your building’s infrastructure standing tall. Any malfunction could cause a flood that rushes inside, creating enough physical destruction that a water restoration service professional becomes necessary. Here’s how such a nightmarish scenario can be prevented from afflicting your office in Batavia, IL.

Irrigation System Problems

Your lawn’s plumbing is negatively impacted by:

• Overheating
• Freezing
• Mechanical damage
• Corrosion

Prevent these conditions and their potential for sprinkler flooding by putting the below system checkup guidelines into practice.

Irrigation System Upkeep
Although sprinkler systems are designed to handle the wear and tear of constant usage, they can still become easily damaged. Sprinkler heads often get knocked out of place from careless mowers, curious animals and extreme weather events. These realities turn monthly irrigation maintenance inspections into critical practice. Readjusting sprinkler heads is a far cheaper alternative to an out-of-control deluge. Likewise, early detection of leaky valves could prevent an oversized water bill from draining your building’s maintenance budget.
While routine inspections are great, they do not come close to the thoroughness of in-depth checkups. In addition to assuring smooth operation, these reviews have the potential to uncover ways of conserving water and lowering your bill.
Get into the habit of staying on top of sprinkler system advances. When significant improvements are released, it may be sensible to replace yours with one that features better flood prevention mechanisms. Bookmark your manufacturer’s homepage, then set yearly reminders to read up on pertinent details.
Remember that seasonal changes dictate how lawn care should be executed. Adjust your water distribution levels so they match your climate’s natural ebb and flow. Reducing your sprinkler’s output will inherently decrease the odds of water pouring into your workspace.
Irrigation maintenance is the best way to assure lawn plumbing never malfunctions and triggers a ghastly indoor flood. Prioritize these error prevention methods and yours will remain in tiptop condition.

4 Furnace Maintenance Tasks To Improve Efficiency and Decrease Risk of Fire

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Don't wait until a problem occurs to start caring for your furnace

Your furnace is a useful way to heat your North Aurora, IL, home during the winter months, but it also tends to be a major expense. It probably uses more energy than the other appliances in your home. However, with the right maintenance, you can improve the efficiency of the furnace, keep your costs down, and avoid furnace malfunctions. In addition to these benefits, regular maintenance that includes fire cleaning helps prevent home fires.

Basic Maintenance Tasks

Don't wait until a problem occurs to start caring for your furnace. Perform the following steps regularly and more frequently when necessary:

• Replace the filter. Clean filters remove unwanted dust, particles, pollen, mold spores, and more. When filters are clogged and dirty, airflow to the heater is reduced, so the appliance doesn't run as efficiently and is at greater risk for starting a fire. This task should be completed about once a month.
• Clean vents throughout the home. Dirty or covered vents also reduce airflow to the furnace, decreasing appliance efficiency. This loss of airflow can also cause damage to the furnace.
• Schedule regular dust, dirt, and smoke cleaning of the heating and cooling system. Anything that gets into the ductwork, vents, and registers may get into the furnace, decreasing efficiency and increasing the risk of a home fire.
• Move any flammable objects away from vents and the furnace. Of course, keeping the area around vents and the furnace free allows for plenty of airflow. In addition to this, it further reduces the risk of fire.
• Sometimes homeowners store clothing, chemicals, or paperwork near the furnace, but these items should never be stored near this appliance or the water heater.

Experienced homeowners understand the importance of regular furnace maintenance. While some tasks need to be done once a month, others can be completed annually.

Time To Get Started
If you've missed some maintenance steps, it isn't too late to get started. If you've noticed smoke damage around your furnace, contact professionals with experience handling fire cleaning to make sure there isn't any hidden damage.

Are Broken Pipes Covered by Insurance?

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration services

SERVPRO Is Here To Help!

If a pipe suddenly breaks in your home, causing a flood, there’s an excellent chance that your insurance will cover the resulting damage. However, you have a duty to act quickly, and if you ignore routine maintenance or an ongoing issue, your claim can be denied.

What Is Excluded by Insurance?
Insurance coverage is designed to handle accidents beyond normal use. It’s not meant to protect homeowners who are negligent in maintenance and those who ignore obvious problems.
Common exclusions from coverage include:

• Poor maintenance
• Ignoring a known issue
• Water damage from a flood outside the home
• Earthquakes and sinkholes
• Normal wear and tear
  

For instance, if there’s a leak and you don’t fix broken pipe or connections, it won’t be covered if the insurance company finds out. Also, while earthquakes aren’t covered, the damage from other earthquake-caused problems, such as fires, may be fully covered.

What About a Slow Leak?
Gradual damage can be a tricky issue. Generally, damage incurred over a long period is not covered, but the wording on your policy makes a huge difference. If the gradual water damage was caused by something the homeowner knew about – or should have known about – it won’t be covered.
Another factor is the nature of the damage. Was it caused by a sudden event? If an accident happens that’s hidden for a reasonable period of time before being discovered, and that accident created a situation causing gradual damage, it may be covered.

What About Black Mold Damage?
This is an example of slow damage. Whether it’s covered by your policy will depend on the policy wording and cause. Many homeowner’s policies don’t include mold at all, so it’s really hit or miss with mold. A flood is also always excluded from standard insurance coverage.

What Should You Do if You Discover a Slow Leak?
You need to immediately shut off the water to the area and call your top local water damage restoration company to perform an initial inspection. They can mitigate further damage, help you with insurance claims and begin the repair process. 

5 Steps To Make a Mold Claim

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Bedroom with mold damage

Take These Five Steps To Make A Mold Claim

A covered mold claim can save thousands of dollars that a homeowner would otherwise have to pay out-of-pocket for cleanup and remediation. Residential property owners may assume homeowners insurance covers fungus growth, but many policies exclude or cap mold coverage.

1. Make Sure Mold Is Covered
Homeowners should review their current coverage to determine whether additional mold insurance is necessary. Many homeowner’s policies cap or cut out coverage for secondary damage resulting from primary water damage that was improperly restored. Endorsements, riders and additional policies may provide mold coverage with independent terms and limits.

2. Document Mold Damage
When you see mold growing in your home, document the damage in preparation for making a claim. A mold inspection professional can safely obtain footage of hidden fungus growth behind walls or in other hard-to-reach locations with specialized photographic equipment.

3. Make a Mold Insurance Claim
A homeowner should submit proof of damage and any other helpful documentation when making a claim. Within the stated limit of a claim, more costs may be covered if a homeowner can provide records of water damage restoration and ongoing upkeep of plumbing and other structural systems.

4. Schedule Cleanup and Remediation
Cleanup and remediation should take place as soon as possible after the detection of mold in a residence. Certified mold specialists can remove colonies and ruined building materials, disinfect and apply antifungal treatments to surfaces and clean some contents exposed to mold.

5. Take Preventative Measures
A homeowner should take any measures necessary to keep mold from returning to a residence. Fixing plumbing or roofing problems and restoring water damage can keep fungi from multiplying.
Fungus growth poses a problem for many households in St. Charles, IL. If you see or smell signs of mold growth, contact certified professionals. Timely action can limit the spread of mold throughout a residence.

4 Actions To Take When Deducting Storm Damage

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Some of your expenses can be tax-deductible

Take The Actions Below

If your business in Batavia, IL, is impacted by a powerful storm, you are likely to have costs and expenses that affect the bottom line. In these cases, it is best to look at all possibilities for financial relief from storm damage. If the storm is large enough, there could be options for disaster relief that either provide outright grants of assistance or low-interest loans. You should also contact your insurance agent to maximize payment from this source. Finally, some of your expenses could be tax-deductible so it is important to take the actions below.

1. Contact Your Tax Professional. A tax professional will be your best source of information on what does and does not qualify for a tax deduction. While the federal laws will be fairly uniform across the nation, the rules for state and local tax deductions will vary from place to place.

2. Keep Good Records. Any tax deductions for storm damage will need to be backed up with good records. This means keeping receipts, taking photos of damage and listing all of your company's expenses.

3. Contact a Professional Remediation Company. A reputable storm mitigation franchise can be of help in many ways. A SERVPRO team can arrive on site Faster to Any Size Disaster and begin the cleanup in a matter of hours. They can also be of assistance in coordinating records for insurance payments and tax write-offs. This is critical since anything paid for by insurance will not be eligible for a deduction.

4. Follow All Applicable Laws. Tax policy can be confusing and changes occur each year. Make sure you are claiming all available deductions and following all provisions of the tax laws. Knowing the latest rules for storm damage can save you a bundle the next time your company files its taxes. Having extra money in hand can help you rebuild after a damaging storm.

How to Repair a Damaged Roof After a Fire

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Roof damaged by fire in St. Charles, IL

Make Sure You Properly Secure The Roof

It doesn't take a large fire to cause extensive damage to a building. The roof is often one of the first parts of a structure that suffers problems. If you respond quickly and effectively, you might be able to save at least a portion of the roof as well as the rest of the building. During the fire cleanup process, make sure you properly secure the roof.

Making the Right Calls
There are some key people to get in touch with as soon after a fire as possible. If you and others are in the building when it starts, get to safety immediately. You should then make the following calls:

• Notify the fire department of the emergency.
  
• Contact your insurance company and file a fire-loss claim.
  
• Get in touch with a professional fire cleanup company to help you rebuild the structure and salvage and materials possible.
  
  

Assessing the Roof
You should never get up on the roof of a building following fire damage. Let professional crews in St. Charles, IL, evaluate the extent of the damage and determine the next steps. These experts have the skills and equipment to safely and efficiently handle all roof repair matters. The team will tear out damaged materials and clean any ash and soot that remain after the fire. Technicians will also board up windows and other gaps in the building.

Tarping
Before the repair crew can replace the roof, technicians will enlist tarp services to cover it. This will help prevent the elements such as rain, snow and hail from getting into the building and inflicting further damage. A well-placed tarp will also reduce the effects that heavy winds can have on an otherwise exposed structure. Tarping, along with boarding, will also help to fend off animals and discourage looting and trespassing.
Placing tarps over the roof is a vital part of the fire cleanup process. Hire a restoration and repair team you trust to help.

4 Steps To Cleaning Sewer Damage

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial building drying in Geneva, IL

Four Steps To Do When Cleaning Contaminated Water

As a business owner in Geneva, IL, you may be wondering what is involved in sewer cleanup. Whether the water source is from a toilet overflow, burst pipe, or backup, sewage is considered some of the dirtiest water there is. Since sewage can harbor bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants, it is important to clean the area properly. Here are four steps that must be completed when cleaning contaminated water.

1. Assess the Damage
Determine how large of an area has been impacted. Water from a flooded toilet can seep into baseboards or crawlspaces. If you have a room underneath the flooded area, check the room to make sure water is not leaking from the ceiling. Keep in mind that water can break down molecules, so the longer the water is left to sit, the more damage can occur.

2. Remove the Water
Follow safety measures when dealing with sewer cleanup. Wear protective gear and do not let the dirty water make contact with your skin or clothing. If you do accidentally touch the water, wash yourself thoroughly with soap and clean water. Professionals often use water extraction machines to quickly and safely remove excess water from your building.

3. Dry the Moisture
When water is left to sit, mold can begin forming in as little as 24-48 hours. Experts use moisture sensing technology to find hidden problem areas. Professionals use industrialized blowing machines and dehumidifiers to dry the area faster than regular fans do, without spreading contaminants through the air.

4. Clean and Sanitize
All surfaces that come into contact with water from a sewer backup must be properly cleaned and disinfected before it is considered safe to reenter the area. Restoration companies have a variety of methods for sanitation including antimicrobial treatments and biocides.
Sewer cleanup can be a nuisance for business owners. However, by working with a professional water remediation company that is Faster to Any Size Disaster, you can have your business back to normal as quickly as possible.

5 Tips to Help Prevent Sewage Backup

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

Never pour grease down the drain

Protect Your Property From Black Water Flooding

Sewage backup is one of the most common causes of black water floods. These dangerous incidents contain harmful biohazards and can cause severe damage to your property in Elburn, IL. Preventing the issue in the first place is preferable than having to pay for expensive damage repairs. Read on to learn about 5 ways you can protect your property from black water flooding.

1. Take Care of Your Sump Pump.
Proper sump pump maintenance is super easy and can save you a lot of storm damage and flood related trouble in the long run. Make sure to check the filters and pipes for debris, such as gravel and silt, regularly. Also make time to test your sump pump to ensure it's working properly.

2. Only Flush Proper Paper Products.
You can easily clog your toilet by flushing the incorrect items down the pipes. Make sure that you never flush feminine hygiene products, diapers, paper towels or other thick items down the toilet. If you use multi-ply toilet paper, try to limit how much you flush at once to prevent toilet flooding.

3. Never Pour Grease Down the Drain.
Oils can harden inside your pipes, gradually slowing drainage and building up clogs over time. Instead, you need to pour the grease into a heat-resistant container and dispose of it in the trash.

4. Install Backwater Prevention Valves.
These valves can help prevent sewage backup and flooding. These devices are typically installed into your residential sewer line. They enhance sewer cleaning by permitting sewage to leave your pipes, while simultaneously preventing it from backing up into your basement or other parts of your property.

5. Opt for Plastic Sewer Pipes.
Older sewer line pipes are typically made out of cast iron, which ages and cracks over time. Newer pipes are made out of plastic, which has a significantly longer lifespan and is less likely to damage as easily.
Sewage backup floods are extremely messy and can cause a lot of damage. This is why your best course of action is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Contact flood remediation experts if you have suffered from one of these floods.

Why Does Mold Keep Coming Back?

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Geneva, IL

Three Reasons Why Mold Might Be Coming Back

Mold is notoriously tricky to get rid of. Even after you’ve scrubbed and cleaned your house, you might find green or black mold spots. Recurring mold is especially common in homes that have water damage.
Do you have a persistent mildew problem in your Geneva, IL, home? Here are three reasons mold might be coming back.

1. Dirty Ducts
Mold is microscopic and can easily float on air currents. You may have cleaned all the damaged surfaces, but if the mildew is in your air ducts, they may spread through your house when your HVAC system is on. If the air throughout your home smells musty, you may have mold in your air ducts. If the area is small enough, you can clean it yourself with a mixture of bleach and water. If the affected space is larger than 10 square feet, have a licensed professional perform the mold cleanup.

2. Moisture and Humidity
Controlling moisture is essential in getting rid of mold, as it grows best in humid or damp places. According to the US EPA, mold can start growing in as little as 24 hours on a wet surface. Quickly fixing leaks and drips will reduce the chance of dealing with contamination, such as black mold, again. Keep the humidity inside your house below 50% by running a dehumidifier or weatherizing your home.

3. Wet or Damp Items
Mold feeds off organic materials such as wood and fabric. Because carpets, drywall and upholstery can retain water, thoroughly dry or replace them after a flood or a burst pipe. Mildew can hide under wallpaper – take care when taking it down so the spores don’t spread through the room. Use bleach for surface cleaning, and run fans or dehumidifiers to dry paneling and flooring.
Despite your best efforts, you may not be able to get rid of all the mold yourself. If you suspect your home has damage, contact a mold remediation company. They can contain and remove contaminants such as black mold from your home.

How to Repair a Leaky Toilet

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

A leaking toilet is a relatively easy household repair to make

A toilet is a very durable, reliable household fixture that is able to last for decades without too many issues. That being said, even the hardiest of toilets can still succumb to leaks from time to time. Follow the steps below if your house in North Aurora, IL, has a leaking toilet.

Step by Step Toilet Repair

Luckily, repairing a leaky, old toilet is a relatively easy process, even if you don't have any experience with plumbing.

Use a wrench to disconnect the supply tube from the shutoff valve. Double check to make sure all the water is drained from the bowl and tank in the leaking toilet.
At the base of the toilet, remove the rounded caps that cover the closet bolts. Remove the hex nuts using a wrench.
Grasp the toilet by the bowl and carefully lift, using your legs. Set the toilet down on an old blanket or cardboard sheet to prevent water damage on your bathroom tiles.
Go to the closet flange and scrape off the old wax gasket. Inspect the closet flange for damage. In most leaky toilet repair cases, a section of the closet flange is broken off.
Loosen the screws that secure the flange to the floor and slide a repair strap underneath it.
Center the new wax gasket on the closet flange. Both closet bolts should be in place during this step.
On the bottom of the tank, connect the new water supply tube to the threaded fill-valve shank.
Apply downward pressure on the rim of the toilet bowl to compress the gasket. Tighten the nuts and apply more pressure.
Trim the tops of the closet bolts using a close-quarter hacksaw. Tighten the nuts and replace the caps.
Reconnect the supply tube to the shutoff valve. Open the valve and flush the toilet. Carefully inspect the new toilet for any leaks.

A leaking toilet is a relatively easy household repair to make. If the above process does not fix the leak, contact water remediation experts for further assistance.

Top 5 Leading Causes of Home Fires

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

Malfunctioning appliances can spark, resulting in a dangerous fire

Leading Home Fire Causes

Fire is extremely volatile and can spread quickly, consuming your entire home, if not responded to appropriately. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fire departments in the United States must respond to home fires every 24 seconds. Don't let your home in St. Charles, IL, become part of that statistic. Study the following leading home fire causes to help protect your property.

1. Cooking Fires
Cooktops generate open flames that can quickly spread out of control if they aren't watched carefully. Home cooking fires account for approximately $1 billion in property damage, 550 deaths and 4,820 injuries every year. 

2. Electrical Fires
Malfunctioning appliances can spark, resulting in a dangerous fire. These fires account for 13% of all residential fires, including 18% of all civilian fire deaths. These fires are most likely to occur in the colder months. 

3. Candle Fires
Candles may generate a small flame, but that doesn't mean that they're completely harmless. Most candle fires occur when other household items, such as furniture and curtains, are kept too close to the flame. It only takes a few seconds for them to catch fire and consume the house.

4. Careless Children
Children playing with fire are responsible for $172 million in property damages every year. 83% of these fires are caused by young boys, half of which are under the age of six. Properly fire safety education is vital when it comes to preventing these accidents.

5. Smoking
Smoking is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths. These are often caused when someone carelessly smokes a cigarette, cigar or other product too close to combustible materials.
While the dangers listed above do account for the largest amount of home fire causes, they are nowhere near the only dangers you have to watch out for. Educate yourself on other common fire dangers and make the proper preventative measures. Contact fire remediation experts for more information, or if you need assistance with fire cleaning following an incident.

Key Steps To Take After a Fire in Your Building

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

Being in the middle of a disaster can be a helpless feeling. Your first priority is to get out safely and make sure everyone in your building is all right. Once everyone is out of harm’s way, though, you need to act quickly to start the cleanup and rebuilding effort. This can be a complex process. Fortunately, you can rely on the expertise of fire restoration specialists to get things back to normal.

Call Your Insurance Company

Once crews have put out the fire, you need to call your insurance agent right away and report the incident. The fire insurance company will work closely with the restoration team, but it’s important to have some information for the agent:

Describe the extent of any smoke damage or other issues.
Describe what was damaged.
Report if there were any injuries or fatalities.
Give the insurance company the name of the restoration team you are working with.

Stay Out

It may be tempting to enter your St. Charles, IL, building to inspect the damage or salvage personal items. Leave this to the firefighters, cleanup and rebuild crews, and other professionals. The fire damage will create an unsafe environment. To avoid additional damage to your building, materials and to yourself, do not enter your building until you are told to do so.

Board-Up Work

The board-up effort is one of the first things that will happen in the fire restoration process. Before crews start smoke cleaning or addressing water damage, they’ll usually place plywood or tarps over the roof and over any exposed areas of the building. This will keep out the elements as well as vandals. This is an effective way to secure your facility to allow for a safe and thorough cleanup.
Fire restoration can handle even the biggest fire mitigation projects. If you take the proper steps after a fire, you should be able to resume your regular work more quickly.

5 Steps for Mold Remediation at Your Business

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Mold containment in North Aurora, IL

Mold Remediation Process

If you’ve found black mold at your North Aurora, IL, business it’s best to contact a local mold remediation service as quickly as possible. These professionals can contain the problem, remove the mold, and clean the space. Here’s what you can expect to see during this process.

1. Damage Assessment

The first thing you will often see a remediation service do is to perform a damage assessment. This will involve testing for mold to determine where it is and what type they are dealing with, as well as making plans for remediation.

2. Mold Containment

Containment is an important part of mold remediation as it’s a step that helps prevent further contamination of the space. This step usually involves sectioning off the affected area with plastic sheeting and using a ventilation system to control airflow.

3. Mold Removal

The next step should be the removal of the black mold. In this part of the process, the professionals doing the remediation may remove any surface the mold has contaminated including portions of walls and flooring if necessary. Once the affected materials are out of the area the space can be thoroughly cleaned.

4. Item Cleaning

During the mold cleanup, office items will also need to be cleaned. Each item may have a different cleaning process depending on the size and material type. They will then be moved to content storage until it is safe to return them to the space.

5. Restoration

Once the mold is removed and the space cleaned, the restoration process can begin. This step involved replacing any removed components with new material to return your business property to pre-mold conditions.

When removing black mold from a business, the remediation professionals will often start with a damage assessment. The nest steps include containing the affected area, removing the mold, cleaning any affected items, and making repairs. With a little effort, they can have your business looking “Like it never even happened.”

Choosing Business Insurance for Water Damage: 3 Tips

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage at a warehouse building in Elburn, IL

Keep In Mind The Following Three Tips

Protecting your Elburn, IL, business from the ravages of water damage due to both indoor and outdoor flooding can help you avoid financial stress and safeguard your investment. Business insurance offers protection against many different types of flooding, but before you sign a policy, there are a few tips you may want to keep in mind to make an informed choice about the kind of protection you choose.

1. Coverage May Vary
While business insurance may cover certain types of flooding, it may not offer an all-encompassing blanket of protection. For example, your insurance might cover flooding from broken pipes, but if your business suffers damage from outdoor flooding or a sewer backup, you may have to pay out of pocket for it. Asking your insurance representative about these exceptions may help keep you in the know and give you peace of mind if flooding does occur.

2. You May Need Additional Coverage
A single business insurance policy may not offer you the kind of coverage you need because of the many ways water damage might occur. Ask your insurance representative if you require any addendums to your policy and if your commercial property has any features that might make it at higher risk for flooding, such as its location

3. Ask About Cleanup Coverage
If a flood occurs at your business, you might need a water cleanup and restoration service to remove standing water and remove and replace damaged building materials. As you create a flood insurance policy with your insurance representative, you may want to inquire about whether the policy you choose covers this cost. Because flooding can cause such widespread damage, this type of coverage may help you minimize the cost of flood recovery.
Water damage can have a serious impact on your Elburn, IL, business. While investing in business insurance can protect your investment, keeping the previous tips in mind may help you create a policy that offers a wide range of flood coverage.

How Long Will My Commercial Generator Last?

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

A commercial generator can be a part of a solution for your business

During a severe snowstorm, rainstorm, or other weather events in St. Charles, IL, it is possible for the power to go out in your building. You must be prepared for this event in advance so that you are able to keep your employees productive while you keep the business running at full capacity. When you develop your emergency action plan, it is important to include a discussion of how best to address unwanted power outages. There are many problems to consider, but a commercial generator should be a part of the solution. It provides the necessary electricity your business requires to keep it running smoothly until the power is restored.

What Energy Source Is Best for Running This Equipment?

These machines can operate on a number of energy sources:

• Natural gas
  
• Liquid propane
  
• Solar power
  
• Diesel
  
  

While each energy source has its pros and cons, diesel is often considered to be the most reliable and cost-efficient.

How Long Do Commercial Units Last?
The typical commercial generator lasts approximately 3,000 hours, while more expensive units can last as much as 5,000 hours. If you consider that most units are shut off in the evening and will likely only be used a few times a year, that means the machine may last 20 years. Always remember that if the equipment stops working and flooding has occurred, call a water damage expert right away.

What Can You Do to Make Your Equipment Last Longer?
Regularly scheduled maintenance is the key to the longevity of any equipment. Routine inspections can spot generator problems before they become serious, and many issues can be completely prevented if they are addressed head-on. Parts can also become clogged with dirt that prevents them from operating at full capacity. Routing cleaning and replacing of worn parts help your equipment last longer.
Purchasing a commercial generator should be part of the solution to reduce the risks of business interruption during a weather event.

Top 3 Sewage Flooding Causes

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure to routinely clean the gunk out from your gutters

Most Common Flood Sources

A flooded basement is a huge problem on its own. Unfortunately, the residual water damage can lead to even more issues down the road. If your home in Batavia, IL, is suffering from sewer backups and flooding, your first course of action needs to be unearthing the source of the flood. The following are the most common flood sources:

1. Sewer Line Clogs: Check to see whether the water is rising from the drains in your basement. If this is the case, you might have to deal with a clog. The clog could be either in your home line or the municipal line. If the problem is municipal, there's, unfortunately, very little you can do. Your best course of action to prevent your drains from backing up is to install back flow preventers.

2. Surface Water Flood: There are several ways that surface water can leak into your basement. An overflowing gutter is often the culprit, so you'll want to make sure to routinely clean the gunk out from your gutters to help prevent basement flooding. Your property's landscape slope could also be an issue. The land in and around your yard should always slope away from your home to redirect water flow.

3. Subsurface Ground Water Leak: This problem is harder to detect and fix. If you can't find any evidence of surface water contributing to your flooded basement, then the source is likely underground. Hydrostatic pressure can force water into your basement, resulting in damage. The best way to prevent this from happening is to install a perimeter drain system to help alleviate the pressure. The two main types of perimeter drain systems are below-slab systems and above-slab systems.
A flooded basement is no laughing matter and needs to be taken care of quickly to prevent further issues. It's best to contact storm remediation experts if you believe that your home may be at risk of a sewage flood.

When Mold Damage Is Covered Under a Homeowners' Insurance Policy

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage to ceiling in a Geneva, IL home

When Is Mold Damage Covered?

If you have a hidden moisture issue in your home, you could soon end up with a bigger problem: fungus growth. Mold, in particular, spreads quickly in wet areas. By the time you discover the mold, it may already be widespread throughout your Geneva, IL, house.
Attempting to clean the mold yourself can make the problem worse. However, mold remediation professionals can remove the spores and help prevent them from coming back. Your homeowners' insurance may even pay for this cleanup.

Checking Your Insurance
Most insurance policies do not directly include mold coverage. Still, your insurer should pay for mold-related expenses if the mold resulted from a covered peril such as:

• Vandalism
  
• Lightning
  
• Theft
  
• Fire
  
• Frozen pipes
  
• Accidental discharge of water from appliances, sprinklers or plumbing
  
  

Even if the fungus growth did not result from a covered peril, you may still have some limited coverage in your homeowners' policy. The insurer may only cover certain services or just pay a portion of your expenses.
You can also purchase mold insurance as an endorsement, or add-on, to your homeowners' policy. Keep in mind, however, that the insurer may reject your endorsement request if your home has a history of mold problems.

Filing a Claim
If you do think your mold damage is covered by your insurance, you need to file a claim as soon as possible. You should also take steps to mitigate further harm to your home. Otherwise, the insurer may decline your claim.
You should avoid getting too close to the mold. However, you should open doors and windows to dry out the wet areas. You should also stop any active leaks that may be fueling the mold growth.
Mold that results from a sudden peril such as fire or lightning may be covered by homeowners' insurance. You can also purchase a separate mold endorsement to your policy. To ensure that your insurance claim is accepted, take steps to reduce the fungus growth before the mold cleanup experts arrive.

3 Ways Office Items Can Be Restored After a Fire

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning content after fire damage

Three Methods The Professionals Might Use

After a fire at your St. Charles, IL, business you may be worried about the possibility of restoring your office items. Fortunately, your local fire damage restoration service can offer a number of services, including dry-cleaning and content storage, which may help. Here are three methods you may see them use.

1. Washing

The most common type of content cleaning is washing items with special cleaners. Large items can be cleaned with a rag and bucket, while smaller items may be soaked in they are not mechanical. Upholstery cleaners may even be available for furniture. The exact washing method may depend on the item size, as well as the material it is composed of. After the items are washed they will be dried and moved to storage until building repairs can be completed.

2. Dry-Cleaning

This method is usually reserved as a preparatory step before washing, or used on items that may be sensitive to liquid cleaners. This can include sensitive fabrics as well as mechanical items, such as staplers, and electronics. Cleaning with a dry method may involve powders than can lay over a surface to trap smoke odors and they be wiped away, and the use of a fine scrub brush.

3. Freeze Drying

Freeze drying is part of the process for salvaging documentation that may have been damaged by fire suppression methods. This step can help remove the water from the paperwork without exposing it to the possibility of further damage. In many cases, your restoration service may also offer to help make a digital copy of any documents they restore as well

Washing the items with a cleaning solution can be used for most items, however, dry-cleaning and freeze drying methods can be used for sensitive fabrics, paper documentation, and other items that may not react well to liquid cleaners. After the office items are restored they can be moved to content storage until repairs on the property can be completed.

The Importance of Qualifications for an Insurance Company

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Cleanup

The Importance of Qualifications for an Insurance Company

As an insurance agent, you know it helps to partner with the best remediation company in Elburn, IL. Therefore, you look for a company that has high standards and meets your qualifications. In a word, it is all about professionalism. That's why SERVPRO is the preferred vendor for many local and national insurance companies in the U.S. and Canada. Not only is the company Faster to Any Size Disaster, it also embraces a higher standard of cleaning and restoration. Each of the 1700 franchises have the training and knowledge to deal with the following situations:

• Water damage
  
• Fire damage
  
• Mold mitigation
  
• Storm damage
  
• Commercial and residential services
  
  

An established vendor program makes sure you get qualified workers to help your clients in times of trouble. A fast response and quality work are the hallmarks of a professional disaster remediation company.

High Qualifications
A reputable restoration company goes beyond the normal methods of a typical cleaning or janitorial service. Trained technicians use advanced techniques and a variety of cleaning methods to make sure a business is completely restored. Highly-trained professionals are experienced in biohazard decontamination, chemical spills, and other challenging circumstances. They adhere to the standards of the Centers for Disease Control and other advisory agencies such as the IICRC. All of this helps an insurance agent reassure customers that everything is being done to restore a business to its condition before a fire or flood.

Best Practices
Every insurance agent will appreciate the effort to keep costs low and to reduce expenses. When possible, damaged items should be restored instead of replaced. This can be accomplished through pretesting of items and the proper cleaning techniques for materials. Methods such as dry cleaning, deep cleaning, and immersion cleaning can restore damaged items such as clothing, carpeting, upholstery, and personal belongings. It always pays to work with a trusted leader in the cleaning and restoration field.

How Long Do Supply Lines and Other Household Pipes Last?

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Copper, brass, and steel pipes can each be expected to last at least 70 years

How Long Do Supply Lines and Other Household Pipes Last?

Supply line damage can occur in older houses. This, in turn, can lead to a variety of water problems. You could end up with a bathroom leak or a large flood.
Supply lines face constant pressure from flowing water. They can be made of several types of materials, including:

• Brass
• Steel
• Copper
  

Thankfully, while these supply lines can experience wear and tear, you likely won't have to replace them completely. That's because they typically have long life expectancies. Copper, brass, and steel pipes can each be expected to last at least 70 years.
If you do discover standing water in your Batavia, IL, home following a supply line leak, your warranty may cover the cost of replacing the pipe. The length of your warranty also depends on the material used to make the pipes. Plastic pipes typically have a warranty that lasts five to eight years. Steel-braided pipes, however, often feature lifetime warranties. 
While supply line damage may be rare, other pipes in your home are not quite as durable. Below are the life expectancies of various water lines.

Drain Lines
Drain lines can easily be damaged by weather or tree roots. While cast-iron pipes can last up to 80 years, plastic ones are less durable. They could break down in just 25 years.

Faucets
Most people replace faucets for purely cosmetic reasons. However, if you have frequent problems with your sinks, you may want to purchase new faucets.

Washing Machine Hoses
Washing machine hoses get damaged easily and should thus be replaced every three years. You should also regularly check the hoses for cracks or bubbles. These could be signs that a repair is needed.
Supply line damage is primarily an issue in older homes. However, harm to other pipes is more common. Any small cracks or holes in your pipes should be fixed immediately before they cause a major flood that necessitates water damage repair services.

Make Your Home Safe With These Tips

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

A home fire can be caused by a variety of mistakes, malfunctions, and miscalculations

Ways In Which A Blaze Can Ignite In A Home

A home fire can be caused by a variety of mistakes, malfunctions, and miscalculations. The following list includes some of the ways in which a blaze can ignite in a home:

• Barbecue fire
• Faulty electrical wiring
• Candles
• Cooking mishap
• Cigarette or pipe smoke
• Appliance malfunction
  

A lint fire is another danger that homeowners and renters could face if they are not careful. A few steps can make this worry go away.

Cleaning a Dryer
The accumulation of lint makes a dryer fire a possibility. Lint can easily ignite as dryers generate heat. Pretty much all dryers have a lint screen that should be cleaned out after each load. The screen just needs to pulled out and cleaned by hand. Once every week or two the lint screen should be cleaned more thoroughly by running it under a spray of water. It's a good idea to periodically vacuum out the lint vent, too. A deeper cleaning of the dryer of lint is a little more involved but can be beneficial. This includes unplugging the dryer, unhooking the exhaust hose, and cleaning the lint from this area. At this time, the outside dryer vent should be looked at as well and any lint accumulation should be removed. A deeper cleaning of the dryer is for most people a job better left to a service person.

Restoring a Home After a Fire
Whether it is from a lint fire or some other cause, a fire causes a lot of damage to a home. The services of a fire remediation franchise ensure trained technicians handle the restoration process according to the highest professional standards. Even a small home fire in North Aurora, IL, results in a large amount of soot, smoke, and fire damage. The cleanup requires a high degree of knowledge and the best equipment. A proven process works efficiently to remove odors and restore the home to good condition again.

A 5 Step Sprinkler Preparation Checklist

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial irrigation systems require seasonal irrigation maintenance to operate efficiently

Take These Five Steps To Prepare a System for Operation

Commercial irrigation systems require seasonal irrigation maintenance to operate efficiently. One of the most critical procedures should occur as temperatures start to rise during the spring in St. Charles, IL. Property owners can take these five steps to prepare a system for operation.

1. Check the Soil
Sprinklers should not operate while the ground remains frozen. Lines running through frozen ground are prone to develop frozen blockages that raise pressure levels and cause pipes to burst. Check the status of the soil before activating and testing an irrigation system.
2. Clean the Heads
The heads on sprinklers are at risk of sustaining damage while installed. These components require regular irrigation maintenance, as debris can accumulate and block the flow of water or parts such as nozzles, filters, spray heads or rotors may be faulty.
3. Fill the Main Line
Water must enter pipes before a system can be tested. Slowly open the water main to allow time for pressure to equalize. Gradually introducing water safely pushes out air that could otherwise cause pressure levels to spike, resulting in broken pipes and water damage.
4. Test Zone Mains
Once the main irrigation line has been filled, it is time to test the integrity of smaller pipes. It is necessary to run water to each zone for at least a few minutes to check the functionality of every part of the system and detect any signs of sprinkler flooding.
5. Inspect the System
Allow the entire system to run and continue the inspection. It is also a good idea to adjust the watering schedule and ensure that soil moisture detection or rain shutoff devices are in place.
Commercial property owners should contact sprinkler system specialists regarding equipment malfunctions or irrigation maintenance issues. If an irrigation system leaks, restoration may be necessary to limit primary and secondary damage to a commercial property in St. Charles, IL.

What Methods Are Used To Contain Mold?

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Mold containment in Geneva, IL

An HVAC system or occupants of a building can carry airborne mold spores. Building owners or managers should turn off the central air system and restrict traffic in and out of areas that are suspected or known to be infested with mold. Remediation professionals use the following containment methods during mold cleanup.

Suspending Polyethylene Sheeting

Heavy sheets of plastic are used to isolate a portion of a structure with mold contamination. Plastic sheeting at least 6 millimeters thick may be used to seal off any of the following portions of a structure:

• Doors and openings
• Flooring in the work area
• Ventilation returns and vents
  

Duct tape or painters tape can be used to create a seal that will ensure that air does not circulate out of the contained area and into the rest of the structure. If necessary, epoxy or studs can be used to suspend sheeting in large areas.

Generating Negative Air Pressure
An exhaust fan with an attached high-efficiency particulate air filter can vent air out of the area in which mold cleanup is taking place. HEPA filters are rated to remove at least 99.7% of particles, including fungus spores. This equipment reduces the concentration of spores and provides negative pressurization within a sealed work area surrounded by sheeting.

Creating a Full Containment Airlock
Plastic sheeting can also be used to set up a two-barrier airlock if full containment is necessary for an infestation affecting more than 100 square feet of a structure or involving toxigenic mold. A decontamination chamber will help remediation professionals avoid carrying spores out of the work area.
Containment is an essential part of mold cleanup. Failure to limit access and put up physical barriers around an infestation may permit mold spores to travel throughout a building in Geneva, IL. Any areas with elevated moisture levels can support growth and cause mold to spread.

Do Fire Sprinklers Cause Water Damage?

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

Sprinkler heads activate individually based on the temperature of the surrounding area

Do Fire Sprinklers Cause Water Damage?

The activation of a commercial fire safety system may result in water damage. When a system activates, only the sprinklers in the area experiencing high temperatures start to spray. Depending on the size of a fire, this may lead to more or less water damage. Find out more about how fire sprinkler systems activate in response to a fire at a building in North Aurora, IL.

Sprinkler Head Activation

Sprinkler heads activate individually based on the temperature of the surrounding area. Most sprinklers follow the same activation procedure:

• Air temperatures rise to the range of 135 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit
  
• A liquid-filled bulb in the sprinkler bursts
  
• The sprinkler starts to spray water from pressurized pipes
  
  

A fire suppression system only activates sprinklers that detect high temperatures to limit unnecessary water damage. Sprinklers are not activated by smoke or other indications of fire. The system will not shut off until it has been manually turned off.

Sprinkler Water Dispersion
A single commercial fire sprinkler can release over 20 gallons of water per minute. The pipes of a sprinkler system are charged with water to provide an instantaneous response to elevated temperatures. Water sprays forcefully over the surrounding area to suppress or extinguish a fire. This may result in water damage but should reduce the extent of fire damage.

Additional Water Damage
A fire hose can introduce hundreds of gallons of water into a structure in a matter of minutes. Severe water damage is more likely to result from a fire suppression effort that requires hoses. Fire sprinkler cleanup involves pumping out standing water and drying the affected area. Damage caused by the fire can then be cleaned.
A fire sprinkler system should only cause minor water damage while minimizing fire damage. It is still essential to extract standing water and promote drying prior to cleaning and restoring fire and smoke damage.

Understanding the Differences Between Mitigation and Restoration

4/11/2020 (Permalink)

Call a restoration company when there is standing water and when the damage covers a large area

Mitigation and Restoration

Dealing with a disaster in the workplace is the last thing your business needs. Despite your best efforts and preparation, you can't prevent all types of incidents from occurring. If a major storm causes damage to your building, you need to rely on a skilled professional flood cleanup company to help you get back on your feet. The team will focus on two major components of this process: mitigation and restoration.

Advantages of Calling the Pros

For minor water damage issues in the workplace, you can probably handle the cleanup yourself. However, you should call a restoration company when there is standing water and when the damage covers a large area. Professional crews offer the following:

• Experience and expertise cleaning up after storms
• The right tools and equipment to clean up and restore buildings
• Timely response and quick results
  

Understanding Mitigation

Disaster response companies will first inspect the affected area and make a plan. Mitigation then begins. Depending on the size and scope of the damage in your building, technicians can complete this process in a matter of days. Crews will remove all water from the building. Then, using, high-powered fans and dehumidifiers, team members will thoroughly dry the area. After doing this, the flood cleanup company will sanitize all surfaces to kill any remaining bacteria. Technicians will tear out building materials and other damaged items. 

Understanding Restoration

The restoration effort is much longer than mitigation. This involves rebuilding the roof, reframing rooms, and installing new carpet or other flooring materials. This will not take place until crews have finished all aspects of mitigation. In catastrophic flooding and storm damage, the company may have to rebuild your building from scratch. 
If you choose the right flood cleanup company in Batavia, IL, you can feel good about returning to your building. The company can help make your workplace safe once more, even after the most severe damage.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need 

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

Specialized Training 

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis. 

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include: 

• Kitchen/Food Areas 
• Bathrooms 
• Schools/Classrooms 
• Offices 
• Retail Spaces 
• Water Fountains 
• Shelving/Racks 
• Sales Counters 
• Carpets and Rugs 
• Stair Handrails 
• Elevator Cars 
• Playground Equipment 
• Fitness Equipment 

Specialized Products 

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities. 

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning 

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of St. Charles/ Geneva/ Batavia- (630) 377-7062

How to Prepare Your Company For Disasters

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Power outage in St. Charles, IL area

No business owner ever thinks that a major disaster will befall their company, but planning for the worst case scenario will help them get their company in St. Charles, IL  back on its feet much quicker in the event of a real emergency. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends that a disaster preparedness plan should consider both natural and man-made disasters.

Natural Disasters

It is critical to identify all of the natural disaster situations that could potentially affect your company. Every region in the country has different weather-related situations they must plan for. They can include:

• Tornadoes
  
• Hurricanes
  
• Earthquakes
  
• Floods
  
• Wildfires
  
  

Included in natural disaster business preparedness would be an in-place shelter for employees and visitors to meet. In the case of tornadoes, this should be an interior room with no outside windows.

Man-Made Disasters

Hazardous material spills or exposure
Power outages
Structural collapse
Technical disasters - These can include loss of data and security breaches

Detailed evacuation procedures would be essential when devising a plan for man-made disasters. Ensuring the safety of your employees and visitors is your top priority.

Develop a Successful Plan

The key to a successful disaster preparedness plan is to first conduct a risk assessment to identify all of the situations that can potentially affect your company. It is smart to have an “all-hazards” approach when developing your plan so that no matter what disaster you encounter, your company will be prepared. A disaster plan should include:

• Mitigation, preparation, response and recovery plans to handle the hazards and risks appropriate to your company
  
• Written procedures to address all of the steps involved in preparation and response
  
• Training of all personnel, including all visitors on the premises
  
• Data backup management plans
  
• Plans on how to communicate with internal and external parties regarding the situation, including a robust alarm system
  
• Emergency drills at regular intervals with all employees, making sure to document any weak areas that need to be improved
  
  

When developing your disaster preparedness plan, remember the “3 P’s” - plan, prepare and practice.

How To Prevent and Prepare for Home Fires

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

There should be at least one smoke detector on every floor of your house

You never want to think about the possibility of a home fire. Yet fires affect plenty of properties each year. By following proper fire preparation and prevention techniques, you can reduce the chances of a blaze destroying your Elburn, IL, house.

Fire Prevention Tips

1. Cook Safely
The kitchen is a common location for home fires. You should stay in the room while cooking so any blazes can be put out right away. Keep any pets or small children away from ovens and stoves, as well.

2. Keep Fire-Starters Away From Kids
Talk to your children about fire safety and the dangers of lighters and matches. Put those items on high shelves where kids can't reach them.

3. Check Your Wiring
Electrical wires are everywhere nowadays. Unfortunately, they are also common sources of fire. Avoid putting too many cords into one outlet. You should also replace or fix frayed cords immediately.

Fire Preparation Tips

1. Make an Escape Plan
Everyone in your family should know two ways out of each room in the house. You should also set up an outdoor meeting place where your loved ones can gather in the event of a fire. You can then practice your escape plan every six months.

2. Use Smoke Alarms
There should be at least one smoke detector on every floor of your house. Smoke alarms should also be placed outside each bedroom or sleeping area. Be sure to test the detectors regularly and to change the batteries at least once per year.

3. Store Important Contact Information
Keep emergency contact numbers near your phone so anyone in the home will have quick access to them during a fire. You may also want to keep in your cell phone or wallet the contact information for your local fire restoration company.
Homes fires can be devastating. Thankfully, there are simple fire preparation and prevention strategies you can follow to protect your house.

Ideas on How to Avoid Frozen Pipes While on Vacation

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Insulating your water lines is probably the best thing to do before leaving for vacation

How To Prevent Freezing In Your Pipes

When temperatures plummet, pipe freeze becomes the leading cause of water damage in North Aurora, IL. Water lines in unheated parts of the house succumb to the surprisingly forceful pressure of solidifying water, causing thousands of dollars worth of water damage. That’s why you need to know how to prevent freezing in your pipes

Pipes with the highest risk of freezing include:

• Any line passing through the attic
  
• Pipes in the basement
  
• Supply lines in the garage
  
  

Insulate Your Pipes

Insulating your water lines is probably the best thing to do before leaving for vacation. It will mitigate the risk of frozen pipes, saving you the trouble of continually heating the pipes.
There are several options for plumbing insulation in the market today; some are dirt cheap, while others are not. Inexpensive options such as rubber and fiberglass, are suitable for houses with decent insulation. There’s also an electric heating tape that can work for any situation.

Turn on the Heat

Leaving the heat on might not be the most economical thing to do, but maintaining 55F or more can prevent freezing in plumbing fixtures. Ask a friend to check the house regularly to make sure it is warm enough. It’s one way of avoiding a nasty pipe burst incident.

Shut off the Water Supply

Cutting off the water supply at the main valve has its pros and cons. First, it will prevent any water from getting into the system, which eliminates the risk of frozen pipes. However, fire sprinklers will not work if they are needed. That’s why some people prefer leaving their faucets dripping to reduce pressure and eliminate the risk of freezing. With these tips, you will never have to worry about frozen pipes ever again. You can implement any of them and get the desired outcome, but they work better when used together. For example, insulate the pipes as the first thing then have a friend check-in every other day for the best results.

Why Call SERVPRO?

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

Let us handle it for you.

Here at SERVPRO of St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia, we realize you have many options when selecting a restoration and emergency service provider.  So, why should you call us? 

• We are a one stop shop that can handle any job from start to finish.
• As one of 1700 individually owned and operated franchises we have access to more support during harsh weather.
• We are “Faster to any size disaster”.
• SERVPRO is a trusted name in the mitigation and restoration industry.
• We work with all major insurance carriers and have relationships with many local providers.
• We are a Large Loss Provider.
• We always put our customers need first.
• We have the equipment and training to get any job completed.
• We can easily handle both commercial and residential properties.
• Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
• We are locally owned and operated so we live and work in the same communities you do.
• We love what we do and want to help you!

If you have questions, need any assistance or would like a free estimate. Give us a call today (630)377-7062.

Why Should My Business Choose SERVPRO?

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are trained to meet or exceed industry standards after water damage.

As a business owner in Geneva, IL you know that each day brings with it new challenges. It helps to know that, should a disaster occur, you can trust a company with a 24-hour fast response reputation to remedy the situation. SERVPRO is ideal because:

1. They’re Trusted Professionals

Since 1967, SERVPRO has been providing customers with quick and reliable restoration and cleanup. With over 1,700 franchises nationwide, they’ve become a trusted industry leader.

2. They’re Knowledgeable and Experienced

Extensive training and certification in fire restoration is provided at the IICRC-approved training facility of SERVPRO Industries, Inc.

3. They’re Preferred by Many

SERVPRO not only handles residential cleanup but has also become the trusted choice for commercial clients, much of the insurance industry and many property management companies.

4. They’re Always Available

SERVPRO is committed to the restoration and cleanup industry, so it’s only logical to be available on a 24-hour basis, 365 days a year. Emergencies are never convenient; they don’t take nights, weekends and holidays off, after all. The more than 10,000 SERVPRO teammates don’t either. They’re always open, so they’ll quickly be on the scene to analyze the damage and begin the cleanup and restoration process.

5. They Have Equipment for Every Job

You can trust SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to have the right equipment available for every job. More than 140,000 pieces of professional restoration and cleaning equipment are housed in over 5,000,000 square feet of building space.

6. They Offer an Array of Services

No matter what type of commercial facility you may have, SERVPRO is Here to Help. Their services include fire, water and storm damage restoration, mold remediation, building cleaning, as well as air duct and HVAC cleaning. They can also handle board-ups, biohazard cleanup, document drying and the cleaning, restoration and deodorization of electronics and artwork.

If your commercial building sustains any type of damage from flooding to fire to mold, you can feel confident hiring SERVPRO Franchise Professionals with 24-hour availability to get your building back to preloss condition.

Eliminating Mold Odor

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

We can find hidden mold and remove it, eliminating mycotoxins and the lingering odor.

If your St. Charles, IL business has ever suffered a mold infestation, then you may have experienced the musty smell frequently associated with mold growth. This odor is caused by the mycotoxins released by mold spores. Fortunately, removing the mold will eliminate the smell.

Temporary Solutions

Covering up the smell of the mold may help in the short term, but remember that the smell will keep coming back until the mold is removed. The following are items that may help with the smell but will not address the underlying problem:

Candles
Incense
Air fresheners
Non-moldicide cleaners

These products may help your business smell fresher, but they should not be used long-term. The longer you wait to remove the mold, the worse the infestation will be and the more damage it will cause.

Mold Remediation

The only way to eliminate the musty odor permanently is to thoroughly remediate the mold using a professional mold remediation company, such as SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia. It is impossible to remove all mold spores because they are present nearly everywhere. However, it is possible to clean mold growth well enough to eliminate the odor caused by the mycotoxins. To clean mold, the experts at SERVPRO will first address the moisture source and make sure the area is dry. It is important to turn off the HVAC system and any fans to keep the spores from spreading throughout the building. Run an air purifier with a HEPA filter to trap the free-floating mold spores. 

If you have removed all the visible mold and still detect a musty odor, then you may need to call an experienced restoration team. 

Why Protect Your Home from Icy Winter Storms?

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Ice storms can cause major damage to your home and property.

You give your kids extra vitamin C at the first sign of a sniffle. Why? Because you want to protect the things that are dear to you. Similarly, you want to protect your home from the ravages of seasonal storms – especially ice storms. Ice storms are expected this time of year. As the Tri-City’s most helpful storm damage restoration company, we are all too familiar with the damaging effects of ice storms.

Helping you to protect your home from severe weather damage might seem a little odd –after all, residential and commercial storm damage restoration is our business. But our hearts run deeper than our pockets, and we want to help our neighbors protect their home and all that is dear to them, even if it means not needing our restoration services.

SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia has compiled their best tips to help you protect your home from the season’s storms. 

• Trim and prune trees regularly. Even the healthiest and strongest of trees will break under the weight of ice. Broken tree limbs account for much of the storm damage from icy weather in St. Charles. A tree limb encased in a block of ice can weigh hundreds of pounds and can easily crash through roofs and even crush a car.
• Look for escaping heat. Escaping heat is often the source of icicles and ice sheets on your roofs’ edge. More widely known as ice dams, these curious ice formations can cause quite a bit of damage to your roof. Melting ice runs down and refreezes creating ice dams that block the flow of water off of your roof. This accumulated water is often the reason that we get called for water and mold damage restoration services. Prevent devastating effects of water damage to your roof by finding the source of the escaping heat causing the melt in the first place. Common sources include the chimney and even incandescent lighting fixtures in the attic.
• Keep up with regular chimney cleaning. If you use your fireplace often, then you likely clean the chimney every winter. However, if you light up the hearth only when the weather drops to freezing and skip the regular upkeep, you could be putting yourself, your family, and your home in danger. Chimneys that are not regularly cleaned and inspected are fire hazards. When icy weather is in the forecast, be sure to clean out the chimney before using it.
• Take steps to prevent frozen pipes. Frozen pipes are very likely to burst and cause water damage. Preliminary steps to protect against frozen pipes include disconnecting hoses and closing valves to prevent water flow between the indoors and out. Keeping a water faucet turned on to a slow, but constant stream also aids in preventing burst pipes and the need for water damage restoration.

Taking these steps can help to prevent icy weather damage, but for everything else, there’s SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia.

SERVPRO is the most trusted name in storm damage restoration in St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia because we’ve worked hard to earn your trust. From flooded basements to soggy, collapsed ceilings to black mold creeping up your wall from water damage, SERVPRO has the expertise and eagerness to restore your home. Call us today and let us know how we can help.

How to Handle a Sewer Overflow Like a Pro

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call a professional restoration company to cleanup a sewer damage.

A sewer backup is probably the worst thing that could happen to a property owner. Whether it’s a sink or toilet overflow, the overwhelming number of bacteria and harmful viruses in black water can cause severe infections to people. So, here is a wastewater cleanup guide for people in Batavia, IL.

Preparing for a Sewer Cleanup

The first thing to do when dealing with a flooded toilet is gearing up for the job. The protective attire needed for this task include:

• Rubber gloves
  
• Eye protection
  
• Waterproof boots
  
• Impervious overall
  
  

The idea is never to touch fecal matter directly, no matter the situation. It is the only way to avoid allergic reactions and nasty infections. Also, you might want to bring bin bags, brushes and mops to help with the actual sewer cleanup exercise.

Getting Started

After wearing protective clothing, scrutinize the situation before starting the operation. Then decide if you should switch the electricity off or leave it on to help with air circulation (fans, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers).
Shovel most of the solid waste into double bin bags to prevent more disasters. Then use a mop and bucket to remove the remaining slurry. If you use any power tools in this step, be sure to wear a gas mask to avoid sewage-contaminated air.
At this point, you should have already identified things that are not salvageable. Carpets, for example, are notoriously hard to disinfect and should be discarded. Clean up everything else with hot water and detergent. However, get a second opinion from a professional cleaner before trashing expensive things.
Sewer cleanup is not an easy task by any chance, but it’s necessary if you want to remain in business. Even so, be very careful with sanitation, and don’t think twice about throwing things out. If you do this job right, everything will go back to normal in a few hours.

Home Heating Safety Tips

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

The heat and beauty of a fireplace can be dangerous if not used correctly.

Winter is in full swing and temperatures are freezing in the tri-city area of St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia, but home heater usage is rising –and so are the incidents of house fires! National studies and our professional fire damage restoration experience have shown that heating units are the number one cause of house fires during the winter months. Of course, there is no ideal time for a house fire, but in the holiday season, it seems especially bitter.

They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and we at St. Charles SERVPRO couldn’t agree more. Enjoy a safe holiday season in the warmth of your home with these home heating fire safety tips.

Check The Unit

Always check your space heater, fireplace, or another heating device to make sure it is clean and in good working order. Heating units that have been in storage, or not used can accumulate a thick layer of lint and dust that can block ventilation, potentially causing the unit to overheat and ignite. Older units can also have worn or frayed wiring.

Poorly maintained fireplaces and chimneys are also to blame for many household fires. Broken chimney flues, layers of soot, and flying embers are all causes of fire damage in St.Charles homes. Have a professional clean and inspect your fireplace and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

The “3-Foot” Rule

Keep a 3-foot area around your home heating unit entirely clear. This true for flammable items such as furniture as well as for passers-by. Designate the 3-foot area as “walk-free” all the way around to avoid knocking over the unit or tripping over cords.

Watch Children

The 3-foot Rule should also be a kid-free zone. Do not allow children to sit or play near the heating unit. Also, never leave children unattended while the heating unit is in use.

Check Your Smoke Alarm

Test your smoke alarm at least once a month by pressing the test button and be sure to place them in areas where you use the heating unit. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) also recommends that you replace smoke alarms every 10 years.

Turn It Off Before Heading To Bed

Although it is tempting to keep household heaters, furnaces, and fireplaces on during the balmy nights, it’s safer to turn them off. The potential for fire damage and the risk of fatalities rises significantly with unattended heating sources.

The joys of chilly nights and family gatherings at home can suddenly be cut short by a house fire. Whether it originates from a heater or another household source, we make your fire damaged home merry and bright again. We are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ready to begin the smoke, water, and fire damage restoration in St. Charles and surrounding neighborhoods.

Explore our blog for more tips on how to keep your home smoke, water, mold, and fire damage-free. For additional information about our home and commercial fire damage restoration services, click on the fire damage tab on the menu above or call us at (630) 377-7062.

Commercial Property Damage Specialists

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia is here to help after a commercial disaster.

When your property experiences a disaster from a commercial frozen pipe, commercial fire or commercial sewage you are in need of knowledgeable technicians fast. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each situation and isolate the damaged area. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. We seek to help your business be able to continue operations in a temporary space if necessary while we restore your facility. With 24/7 emergency service we are able to help get your business quickly and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints.

About SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia

SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia is a large loss provider that specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Restoration After a Fire

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

Sources of dry smoke residue are wood and paper

The aftermath of a fire in you Geneva, IL, can run the gamut from minimal damage to a total loss. Even if the damage doesn’t fall on the extreme end, there could be hidden fire loss that will need to be taken care of to get your business back to looking “Like it never even happened”.

Types of Damage

Along with the obvious signs of fire damage, smoke damage is a main cause of long-term concern. While some may be visible, it sometimes just leaves a smoky smell behind without being seen. There are four main types of smoke damage.

Dry Smoke – The result of a paper or wood fire, this type leaves a powdery residue that is relatively easy to see and clean. Unfortunately, it contains tiny particles that can embed themselves in porous materials, creating the lingering scent of fire.

Protein Residue – Usually associated with low-heat cooking fires, it is difficult to visibly detect but permeates a consistent smoky odor if not treated.

Fuel/Oil Residue – Although uncommon, this is dense, sticky residue that is difficult to clean and leaves a strong, pungent smell.

Wet Smoke – If plastic and rubber catch on fire, the sticky smoke can quickly spread across an entire room. The smearable residue is tough to clean without special equipment.

The Cleanup Process

Whatever the level of your fire loss, fire restoration is available that can eliminate the lingering odors, as well as help you salvage a number of items. A restoration specialist has the expertise and equipment to remove soot, smoke damage and odors from furniture, documents, drapes, furniture and more. These professionals also have the know-how to replace and repair structural damage to get your business back up and running as quickly as possible.
While dealing with fire loss can be overwhelming, getting the right can help ease the disaster. Count on a professional to help you restore things back to normal.

Preparing Your Business for a Disaster

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Have an emergency supply kit available

Tips for Preparing Your Company For an Emergency Situation

Major floods have sadly become increasingly common in America. Storm damage doesn’t just affect residences, either. It can also destroy commercial buildings, especially if there is no disaster preparedness plan in place. Below are some tips for preparing your company for an emergency situation.

Protect Your Employees

Any business preparedness strategy should focus on your workers. Have an emergency supply kit available in case employees get trapped during the storm. You should also prepare an evacuation plan and practice it in advance.

Protect Your Assets

While keeping your employees safe should be the top priority, you need to protect your business assets, as well. If a storm is heading to St. Charles, IL, be sure to check that your insurance policy is still in effect. Find out if the insurance will cover the cost of storm cleanup services.
Any important insurance documents should be stored in a safe and waterproof place. Important equipment in your building should also be properly secured as part of your disaster preparedness plan.

Protect Your Company

Even just a few days out of commission can destroy a small business. You may not be able to wait until the flood cleanup process ends before getting back to work. Consider purchasing a generator that will keep electricity running if the power goes out.
You should also come up with a continuity plan to keep the company functioning. Talk to employees to find out what they need to do their jobs effectively. You should also proactively find ways to serve your most important customers during the disaster. Be sure that you have multiple suppliers and shippers in case your primary ones shut down during the storm.
By coming up with a disaster preparedness strategy, you can limit the flood damage to your commercial building. If an emergency does occur, your employees and customers will be glad that you planned ahead of time.

3 Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Letting faucets drip warm water overnight can create a trickle that keeps your pipes just warm enough to fight off freezing

The winter season can bring many joys, but also headaches in the form of frozen pipes. A pipe freeze can trigger a catastrophic chain of events in your home that can end in big bills. Many homeowners don’t realize this can be avoided. Check out these tips for keeping your Elburn,IL, home’s pipes toasty as temperatures drop.

Why Do Pipes Freeze?

It may seem obvious why pipes freeze: They’re full of water, which forms ice when temperatures drop. But that’s not the top reason for frozen pipes. There are actually three main triggers. Those are:

• Quick temperature drops
  
• Poor insulation
  
• Thermostats set too low
  
  

While you can’t change the temperature outside, you can definitely prepare your pipes and keep them from being negatively impacted.

Insulate Your Pipes

An exposed pipe is an at-risk pipe, even in parts of the country where freezing temperatures are rare. Fight back by insulating pipes during the warm season. Pipe insulation is available relatively cheaply at the average hardware store. Wrap pipes in your attic, crawl spaces and other areas where the temperature drops to prevent a freeze.

Seal House Leaks

Another threat to pipes comes from cold air that leaks into your home. Caulk up leaks around dryer vents, electrical outlets, and windows. These tiny openings can let in just the right amount of cold air to trigger a pipe freeze and all the headaches that come with it.

Drip Your Faucets

This may be an old trick, but it’s an effective one. Letting faucets drip warm water overnight can create a trickle that keeps your pipes just warm enough to fight off freezing.
Frozen pipes can trigger a pipe burst and with it, everything from flooding to household mold. Stop the problem before it starts. Use the above tips from your local water cleanup specialist to keep your home plumbing safe and secure through the season.

Candle Alternatives for a Safer Holiday Season

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Use an alternative to candles during the holidays to prevent house fires

Whether hosting a large family gathering or snuggling under blankets sipping hot cocoa, lighting a candle is a sure way to get into the holiday spirit. While the ambient light and familiar scents candles emit make them a popular festive decoration, nothing is sure to dampen everyone’s mood faster than a fire in your home in St. Charles, IL. To avoid having to relocate during the holidays while a fire damage cleanup company restores your house, consider trying these three candle alternatives.

1. Essential Oil Diffuser

You won’t need to go without your favorite festive scent when you use an essential oil diffuser. There are around 100 different types of essential oils, including staple scents such as cinnamon, peppermint, nutmeg, evergreen, and vanilla. You can easily find diffusers to match your other decorations. There are even some that look just like a candle.

2. Battery-Powered Candles

If you’re really attached to the classic look of a candle, opt for flameless, battery-powered candle alternatives that come in countless sizes and designs. Some types are made from scented wax with a flickering light, so your guests will hardly tell the difference. Since you don’t need to worry about a flame, you can use these lights anywhere you like including on the Christmas tree, on top of the fireplace, or as a decorative centerpiece.

3. Simmer Pot

Use an electric simmer pot, crockpot, or a saucepan on the stove to fill your home with a variety of holiday smells. Simply fill the pot with water and ingredients of your choice. Popular options include apples, vanilla, cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and cloves. While you won’t need to worry about candle fire, make sure to stay close by the pot and keep all flammable objects a good distance away.
There’s no need to light a candle to enjoy this holiday season. Ditch the matches altogether and keep your home fire-free with these great candle alternatives.

3 Effective Ways To Reduce Mold Risk at Home

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Reducing Mold Risk

Mold needs an ample amount of moisture, warmth and oxygen to grow in St. Charles, IL homes. Therefore, it is most common in places where water damage goes untreated or when humidity is too high. Even though water particles are always around you, there are ways you can reduce moisture, which can decrease the risk of mold growth in the process. Continue reading to learn how you can prevent mold development in your house. 

1. Repair Any Leaks

Not every part of your home can function properly, and sooner or later, something will break. This extends to your plumbing system, roof and window. Leaks and cracks to these parts can bring unwanted water and humidity inside, which can encourage mold. It is important to actively look for pipe, roof and window damage and repair it as fast as possible. Mold can even warn you of damaged pipes behind a wall, for example.

2. Clean and Dry After Flooding

A flood can invade your home for a variety of reasons, from a pipe leak to excessive precipitation. Once the flooding stops and it is safe to move around, it is time to repair the water damage. Drain the contents and clean as much of the water as possible. Dry any affected surface and ventilate the area to expedite the process. Contact emergency restoration services to ensure the job is efficiently done with the right expertise and equipment.

3. Control the House's Humidity

Even if you are attentive to the house's faults and mitigate the damage, your mold prevention plan can go further. High humidity, coupled with oxygen, food and other elements, can be enough to result in mold. Use a dehumidifier or an air conditioner to keep humidity at 50% or less. Keep up with temperature changes to adjust these devices throughout the day.

Mold thrives in moist environments, such as places affected by water damage and excessive humidity. Control this moisture to stop mold growth in your home.

How To Prepare for Storm Season

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for a potential storm emergency?

Ways to Prepare For a Potential Storm Emergency

Rising flood water during storm season in North Aurora,IL, can impact you and your family in several ways. It can cause significant damage to your home. It may even force you out of your home for a while. There are several ways to prepare for a potential storm emergency.

Protect Your Family

Your top priority during a storm is likely the safety of your family. You may have to leave your home with very little notice. In case this happens, each family member needs to have a bag with essential items:

• Change of clothes
• Basic toiletries
• Necessary medications
• Device chargers
• Flashlight and batteries
  

If you have pets, don't forget to gather supplies for them, too. Keep emergency supplies in a specific location, and talk about the evacuation plan you will use if you need to flee your flooded building.

Protect Your Belongings

If your home floods, you may have to repair or replace a lot of items. Heirlooms and other valuable belongings should be stored in a watertight container so that they are less likely to get damaged by flood water. It's a good idea to do this with your important documents, too. Better yet, have your documents digitized so that you don't have to worry about them during a storm.

Protect Your Home

Anyone who owns a home in a flood zone needs flood insurance, but this policy is a good idea even if you don't live in an area prone to flooding. Water damage from a storm may not be covered by your homeowner's policy. As soon as you know you have damage, it's important to call both your insurance agent and water restoration specialists so that you can get the remediation process started as soon as possible.
Damage from flood water may be inevitable if you live in a flood-prone area. You can still protect your family and your property with the right preparation.

The Difference Between Flood Mitigation and Restoration

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Hardwood floor flooded in Batavia, IL

The Difference Between Flood Mitigation and Restoration

Knowing what to do after a flood in Batavia,IL, is critical since time is of the essence. Mitigation and restoration processes are both important after a flood occurs, and knowing the difference between them is the first step toward ensuring the safety and preservation of your commercial building and assets. A flood cleanup company provides the necessary services needed for both of these processes so you don’t have to deal with the aftermath yourself.

Flood Mitigation

The mitigation process prevents additional water damage from occurring after a flood. This mainly includes the drying process, but the restoration company will also do other necessary tasks:

• Removing all damaged items, drywall and flooring
  
• Cleaning and disinfecting anything that is salvageable
  
• Ensuring structural integrity, boarding up holes and putting tarps where needed
  
  

Mitigation does not repair any destruction. It just ensures there is no further damage done to the building, such as mold growth, theft or vandalism.

Flood Restoration

Flood restoration refers to the reconstruction or building repairs needed to bring your building back to the way it was before the damage occurred. A flood cleanup company undertakes renovations:

• Replace water damaged drywall and flooring
  
• Remove all mold
  
• Conduct moisture testing if necessary
  
  

This process cannot commence until the mitigation process has been finished. This makes certain the building is not damaged further during the restoration process.

Business Restoration

Keep in mind that doing flood cleanup on your own can cost you valuable time. Without the specialized equipment used by a professional restoration company, there could be moisture left behind that can further damage structural integrity and create mold issues.
Flooding can be detrimental for a business, which is why having it thoroughly and efficiently cleaned and restored is vital. A professional flood cleanup company can come in, set up necessary mitigation equipment and proceed with restoration so you can have peace of mind without dealing with mold problems later.

The 3 Types of Wastewater in Your Home

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

A dripping shower head is an example of clear water

The 3 Types of Wastewater in Your Home

Every homeowner should know the basics of contaminated water in Geneva,IL. It could mean the difference between using a bunch of towels or calling in a professional water damage remediation specialist.

Clear Water: Category 1

This lowest category is water that hasn't been used yet- it's clean water that has come into your home and escaped its confines before it's intended use. This means that it is safe for you to clean up, if the damage isn't too great and you know what you are doing. Keep in mind that if left sitting for too long, category 1 water can become category 2 water in about 48 hours, depending on temperature and setting. Some examples of clear water are:

• Broken water supply line
  
• Leaking faucet
  
• Dripping shower head
  
  

Gray Water: Category 2

Category 2 is water that has been lightly used, and is only considered slightly contaminated water. It can cause slight discomfort to those who come into contact with it. Some common sources of gray water are dishwasher overflow, washing machine overflow or toilet overflow (with no feces). This type of water can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated, because there may be bacteria or viruses sitting in it.

Black Water: Category 3

The third category, black water, is the most dangerous to you and your family. You should avoid contact with this type of water at all costs. If you must interact with it, be sure to wear protective gear such as tall boots and long rubber gloves. This type of water usually comes from sewage backup, and can contain feces or microbial growth. River and stream overflow also fall into this category.
If you've discovered accumulated water in your home, do your best to identify the category of water before moving forward. When in doubt, avoid contact and call the professionals. Don't forget to take care of it as soon as possible to prevent the water from becoming more contaminated and more damage occurring.

3 Alternatives to Burning Candles

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Candle warmers are excellent for putting your remaining scented candles to good use

Three Example of Candle Alternatives

A candle fire can get out of hand quickly. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, there are an average of 23 home candle fires every single day. If you have experienced this unfortunate event, you should consider a fire damage assessment in St. Charles,IL. You should also consider candle alternatives. Here are three examples to get that warm, glowing candle effect without the risks.

1. Flameless Candles

A flame-free candle is a great alternative to the traditional candle in that it has the same look and feel but without the fire. These candles are electronic and often require batteries. They are great as decorative elements. Some are scented and can even flicker just like an actual candle.

2. Candle Warmers

Candle warmers are excellent for putting your remaining scented candles to good use. If you do not want to throw out your existing candles, a candle warmer will allow you to place one of your candles on a warming plate. This option warms the wax and generates that great smell put off by scented candles, but the wick is never even lit with these safe candle alternatives.

3. Oil Diffusers

If you are willing to pursue a completely different path, you could look into an oil diffuser, which is becoming more and more popular. Oil diffusers mix natural oils and water and create a vapor that is released. This approach is non-toxic, healthy, and you can mix and match scents to get different aromas. Because the oils are concentrated, they tend to last for quite a while.

There are several candle alternatives listed here, all of which can greatly reduce or even totally eliminate your risk of fire damage. Each has benefits depending on your love of candles, as well as your desire to either stick as closely as possible to traditional candles or to try something new. Have fun experimenting and find what’s right for you.

Why Does Food Get Moldy?

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

bread mold grows quickly

How Does Bread Mold Begin to Grow?

What makes leftovers that are lurking in the back of the fridge turn into a science project? Mold is a microscopic fungus, a plant, that is found everywhere on earth, including Elburn, IL. We are surrounded by mold spores traveling through the air looking for a home.

Home Sweet Bread

Bread is an inviting host for traveling spores. White bread is made of simple carbohydrates that turn to sugar, which is a very efficient food source, and once a colony gets established, bread mold grows quickly. The best environment for mold growth is cool, damp and dark with poor air circulation — in other words, a refrigerator.

Chilling Out

As with other plants, mold can only survive in a limited range of circumstances. If temperatures are too cold, such as in the freezer, growth stops. Warm conditions, such as baking in an oven, have the same effect. But the humid, dark, still interior of a refrigerator is the perfect place for mold. The best way to prevent mold growth is to eat food while it is still fresh before fridge mold starts to grow.

Useful Mold

Mold is not always bad and has actually saved lives. For example, the antibiotic penicillin was first cultured from mold. Some cheeses, such as Roquefort and blue cheese, rely on mold for their distinctive flavor and appearance. A fungus growth on corn is called huitlacoche in Mexico and is considered a delicacy.

The next time you open a bag and find that bread mold has staked a claim, remember that mold is everywhere in the air around us. The only way to prevent it is to buy smaller amounts of food more frequently so that they can be eaten before mold growth starts. Failing that, you can freeze leftovers. In the event that you have a more serious mold problem, such as mold growth on drywall after a flood, then it's likely time to enlist the help of a professional mold remediation service.

4 Common Causes of Sewage Problems for Commercial Properties

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

4 Common Causes of Sewage Problems for Commercial Properties

From a blocked sewer to a toilet overflow, there are a variety of reasons why you could be experiencing sewage problems at your commercial property in St. Charles,IL. Knowing why your pipes and drains are under siege can be useful in remedying the problem. With that in mind, here are four of the most common causes of commercial sewage issues.

1. Defective Pipes

Pipe breaks, holes, and cracks are just three of the potential pipe-related causes of sewer problems. Pipes can also collapse or become nudged out of alignment over time.
Corrosion or other forms of deterioration can also cause defective pipes. On the flip side, mineral deposit buildups within pipes can inflict pain on your property's sewer line, too, by restricting flow. In short, if your pipes are anything other than PVC, there's the potential for trouble.

2. Solids

Contrary to what the toddler community will have you believe, not all materials should be flushed down the toilet. A blocked sewer is often the result of solid material that has not decomposed obstructing the flow between your property and the main city line.

3. Tree Roots

Trees can improve your commercial property's aesthetics. They can also break into your pipes. If your building is situated near a tree, it's possible that its roots have penetrated your sewage line. In addition to causing pipe defects, roots can also enter a pipe through a joint, spread out, and cause blockages.

4. City Sewer Backups

When the city line gets backed up, sewage generally looks for the lowest outlet from which to escape. If your building has a basement, its toilets and drains may become the victim of a backed-up city sewer line and overflow.
A blocked sewer likely isn't part of normal business operations at your commercial property. Understanding its potential causes and enlisting the help of experienced water damage professionals can help get your building back to normal quickly and safely.

What To Watch For With Floods

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Flood damages North Aurora, IL

What To Watch For With Floods

During a flood watch or advisory, you may have heard that you should not drink tap water without boiling it first. Officials typically issue such advisories as a reminder to residents that floodwaters are often contaminated with chemicals and bacteria, which can pose significant risks to property and people. Some things to watch for include damage and black water.

Mold Growth

With water, mold is a key concern, as it can hide within walls and escape notice. Especially if not treated right away, mold can grow and lead to worse damage. Seeking expert help for water damage repair is smart, not only because of the safety risks but also because of the potential damage to your home. Remember that mold can linger in certain spots:

• Drywall
  
• Carpet
  
• Upholstery
  
• Furniture
  
• Wood paneling
  
• Ceiling tiles
  
  

Contaminated Water

Of the three categories of floodwater marked by potential contaminant types, homeowners in North Aurora,IL, want to be especially aware about Category 3, also known as black water. As the most dangerous type of contaminated water, it originates from rising water or even sewage. It may contain ground debris, disease-causing organisms or even toxic chemicals, which can pose a significant threat as well as cause water damage.

Preventive Safeguards

There are preventive measures homeowners can take beforehand to help minimize potential damage and make your home and family ready, such as raising furniture, carpets and rugs off the floor to higher ground. Another key thing to do is to stock up on safe drinking water and nonperishables to last you and your family for a while, as electricity will likely be out and cooking won’t be an option. Another thing you might want to do to prepare for a flood is place your important documents and family photos in a secure, waterproof place.

With thorough preparation and quick follow-up, repair can be managed and homes salvaged. Acting quickly can help minimize water damage, and being aware of the dangers of floodwater can also help homeowners and families stay safe and healthy.

Why Does Your Toilet Leak Every Time You Flush?

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Water pooling in the base of a toilet

Common Causes Of A Leaking Toilet

Although it may seem like a mere annoyance, a leaking toilet should be taken seriously. To avoid the larger issues that water damage can cause in Batavia,IL, it is advisable to address the malfunction head on. There are several common causes of such a leak.

Faulty Wax Ring

One reason you may find water pooling at the base of the toilet is that the wax seal between the toilet and the floor has dried or was improperly installed. Even for someone with no plumbing experience, it is simple to replace the wax gasket to fix your bathroom leak. Just follow some simple steps:

• Turn off water and flush toilet to drain
  
• Unhook supply line and remove any bolts
  
• Rock toilet back and forth to loosen seal and gently lower it on its side
  
• Scrape off old wax from toilet and flange
  
• Place new wax ring on flange and put toilet back into place
  
  

Broken Flange

Another possible culprit for a leaking toilet is the flange. If it is broken, you can fill in the missing piece with a repair strap. First you need to loosen the screws that secure the flange to the floor. Then you will need room to slide in the new strap under the flange. Finally, re-tighten the screws and install the final closet bolt. If the flange is bent, or too damaged to repair, you can also reinstall a full replacement flange.

Degraded Supply Tube

You will also need to remove your toilet to check the status of your supply tube. If it appears damaged, you will need to replace it. Even if it isn't damaged, you should also consider replacement if it is made of chrome-plated copper, as they aren't very durable. Flexible stainless-steel polymer supply tubes last much longer than any others on the market and they are easier to manipulate when reinstalling your toilet.
It is best to solve your leaking toilet problem before you need to call water damage remediation specialists. It may seem daunting, but it is a good idea to get to know your plumbing as a homeowner.

Prolong the Life of Your Commercial Roof

8/22/2019 (Permalink)

Annual roof inspections provide you with a regular update on the status of your roof

The roof over your commercial building is an essential part of your success as a company. Without it, your company would not be able to operate. It's also a significant expenditure so it pays to take good care of your roof to minimize expenses. When roof damage occurs it should be taken care of promptly or more problems will develop. One of the best ways to prolong the life of your roof is with a scheduled plan of maintenance. When you work closely with a professional roofing contractor in Geneva,IL, it's easier to catch and fix small problems. A reputable contractor can also inform you of how much longer your roof will last, allowing you to budget for a large expense.

The Importance of Inspections

Annual roof inspections provide you with a regular update on the status of your roof. It can alert you to the following common problems:

• Wind damage
  
• Broken or cracked roofing materials
  
• Improper drainage
  
• Flashing issues
  
• Premature peeling or curling of shingles
  
  

Any roof damage should be addressed quickly by a roofing specialist in Geneva,IL. It's also a good idea at this time to look for obstructions such as tree limbs that could cause damage to your roof.

The Need for a New Roof

At some point in the life of your roof, repairs will only go so far. Your commercial roof will need to be replaced. A roof rebuild is a large job so its best to consult with an experienced roofing company. Look for a company that has been active in your community and that can offer references from completed jobs. Once the job is complete, and you have a solid roof again, it makes sense to develop a plan to keep your roof in great shape. Annual inspections, appropriate repairs and eliminating obstructions will cut down on roof damage and extend the life of your roof.

Storm Preparation for Your Home

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

What flood zone you live in?

What Flood Zone You Live In?

Whether you live in North Aurora,IL or elsewhere in the country you should be prepared for a weather-related emergency. However, different kinds of storms occur in different areas which is why it’s important to know what flood zone you live in.

1. Know What Flood Zone You Live In

One of the most important things you can do to be best prepared for a storm is to know what flood zone you live in. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has identified three different types of flood zones:

• Moderate to Low Risk Areas
  
• High Risk Areas
  
• High Risk – Coastal Areas
  
  

Knowing what zone you live in will help give you an idea of how to prepare for the amount of flood water that’s expected to enter your home.

2. Sign Up for Emergency Alerts

Your local government agencies will be your best source of up-to-date information in the event of an emergency. Either the local sheriff’s office or your county will probably be your best source of information. You can choose how you get notifications, generally by a phone call or through a text. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is also a good resource for weather-related emergency alerts.

3. Keep Important Paperwork in a Water-tight Container

There’s no telling how much water damage can occur in your home if flood water finds its way inside, so you want to make sure that all your important paperwork is inside a water-tight container. Birth certificates, passports, deeds or your last will and testament are all examples of documents you want to protect from water damage.

4. Know Your Evacuation Routes

It can be difficult to think clearly in the event of an emergency. This is why you want to have as much prepared in advance as possible. If you find yourself in a flooded building surrounded by flood water you want to know the best emergency exit route before you need to use it.

If your home does get damaged in a storm you’ll want to contact a water damage repair professional as soon as possible to

Why Bleach Doesn’t Effectively Remove Mold

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Don't use bleach to clean up fungus

For many business owners, bleach is the go-to method of mold and fungus cleanup. Whether it’s small spots under the bathroom sink or a large area of water damage from a leaking roof line, mold cleanup can appear to be quick, easy and sanitary with the use of surface cleaning products. However, these products only remove the surface of mold and can’t get at the roots. Find out how to effectively remove mold in Elburn, IL, today.

The Problem With Cleaning Supplies

The issue with most commercial cleaning supplies is that they only address the surface problem. Chlorine bleach is an effective way to remove mold from the surface, but here are a few reasons that it isn’t the best way to thoroughly disinfect your commercial building:

1. Chlorine can evaporate
2. It can’t reach the roots of mold
3. It can be dangerous if used improperly
   
   

Instead, here are some ways to properly cleanup mold and fungus in your commercial property. When you choose a commercial solution, you’ll enjoy fast and efficient results.

Effective Mold Removal

Fungus cleanup should start with an experienced cleanup company that is Here to Help. There are a range of commercial cleaning supplies that are able to reach the deepest roots of mold while still keep your air quality safe.

Hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, borax and even tea tree oil are all natural ways to remove surface mold. However, deep cleaning requires professional-grade biocides. These tough cleaning solutions aren’t easily available, but a commercial mold remediation company has access to all the gear and cleaning supplies necessary to effectively rid your storefront or office building of any mold buildup.

Discover how you can receive prompt, professional fungus cleanup today. Don’t use bleach or other harmful chemicals to attempt to clean it yourself, but choose a company who is able to provide the effective cleaning solutions and techniques that can target the roots of mold and leave you with a clean, sanitary surface.

What To Do After a Big Storm

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Storm Damage due to heavy winds.

When large storms sweep through St. Charles, IL, many homeowners are left with some type of storm damage. Whether you have to deal with roof disrepair or flood damage, you likely want to get the problem looked at as soon as possible. If you're struggling to know what to do first, you can use this handy guide.

3 Steps to Follow After a Big Storm.

1. Consider your insurance policy. Does your home have flood insurance or another policy that could help cover some of the repair costs? You may want to call your insurance company to start the claims process. However, many storm adjusters are very busy right after a large storm. While it's a great idea to give them a call, you may not want to wait until they can arrive at your house before moving forward. If you do wait, the damage done by the storm may get worse.

2. Have the damage inspected. You don't have to wait for a flood insurance adjuster to start taking care of the damage. Instead, you can call in a team of storm remediation professionals. These specialists may record the damage done to your home and help you make a repair plan.

3. Get the water removed. If your home was affected by flood waters, you want to make sure to address the problem as quickly as possible. If you let the waters linger, your flood damage could transform into mold damage. Make sure to take plenty of pictures of your home before any repair steps are taken.

After a big storm, you may need to have an adjuster come to your home to figure out how your flood insurance policy will affect the repair budget. However, because of an adjuster's crazy schedule after a storm, it may not be wise to wait for him or her to come to your house before starting the repair process. You need to address the damage done to your home as soon as you can.

4 Important Items To Replace After a Fire

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Replace your personal products after a fire

Four Items that Require Replacement After a Fire

Fire can ruin most of the contents of a home in a matter of minutes. Items that are not exposed to direct flame or high heat may benefit from content cleaning and restoration. Throw away any burnt or charred items that have significant fire damage. Documenting damage, listing losses and providing proof of purchase, ownership or condition may facilitate the insurance claim filing process. Here are four items that require replacement after exposure to heat, flames, soot and smoke.

Charred Materials

When fire causes blackens any material, chemical changes take place that can cause contamination. It is possible to remove soot and smoke residue from materials indirectly exposed to a fire, but burnt and charred building materials and contents should be disposed of during cleanup.

Food

Fire causes chemical changes to occur that can destabilize food in bags or containers without airtight seals. Rather than risking exposure to contaminants or food poisoning, you should replace damaged food stores. Canned food that was not exposed to flames or high temperatures may be salvageable. Remove labeling, clean the can and create a new label with the contents and expiration date.

Personal Products

Body, face and hair products should be free of contaminants found in burning materials and smoke. Heat also reduces the effectiveness of topical formulas.

Medicine

The temperature ranges on over-the-counter and prescription medications are among the most important factors when determining which items you should throw away or keep and try to use. It’s almost always a good idea to get new, sealed medication that is guaranteed to be effective.
Even if there is no visible charring on an item, a rapid escalation in temperature can alter most chemical compounds. If you are not sure whether to throw items away, check the labeling. Rather than running the risk of re-contamination, rely on IICRC-certified fire damage restoration experts in Batavia,IL.

Smoke, but No Fire- You Could Still Be Covered by Insurance

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

A large wildfire can spread smoke for miles and cause soot damage to nearby structures.

Smoke, But No Fire

There are plenty of instances in which you could experience smoke damage without having had a fire occur on your property in St. Charles, IL. If you have fire insurance, this may still be included in your coverage. What are some real-world scenarios where you could see this happen?

Wildfires

Depending on where your property sits, wildfires could be a recurring issue, especially during the summer fire season. A large wildfire can spread smoke for miles and cause soot damage to nearby structures. You may need to consider cleaning the soot out more than once throughout the season, so it does not build up or sit, causing more destruction. There are a handful of ways you can help reduce your building's exposure to wildfire smoke:

• air filters
  
• room air cleaners
  
• humidifiers
  
• tightly sealed windows and doors
  
  

Trouble With the Neighbors

Most people wish the best for their neighbors, but sometimes the worst happens. If you happen to be located nearby when a fire strikes, your commercial property may also be effected- smoke damage is likely. If you are close enough, you may also experience damage from fire suppression materials like water, foam and pressurized hoses. You could attempt to coordinate with your neighbors and use the same fire remediation service after calling your insurance.

Kitchen Mishaps

Not everyone can be a chef, no matter how hard you try. Another common occurrence of smoke damage, especially in the kitchen, is from small kitchen fires or burnt food. While one individual incident may not cause a lot of visible smoke, over time and with accumulating occurrences, soot can build up enough to require a more thorough smoke cleaning.

Even if you've managed to escape having any fires, you may still experience the damaging effects from they cause. However, if you are protected from fire in your insurance policy, smoke damage can easily be taken care of. It's a good idea to give your insurance company a call to clarify, if you are unsure.

5 Steps To Minimize Flooding Damage

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Use the circuit breaker box to shut off the electricity to all affected areas of your property

5 Steps To Minimize Flooding Damage

When it comes to sewer damage, there are two places in a building most likely to be affected: the basement and the bathroom. When a flooded toilet in a bathroom upstairs affects the lower levels of the building, you can face significant damage and repair costs. Fortunately, you can minimize some of the destruction by taking immediate steps.

Shut off the main water supply

If you are near the toilet, you can use the shut-off valve that's probably on the wall near the toilet. However, if there's a lot of overflow water on your property, there may be electrical risks to consider. In this case, it's best to stop the water from outside your building.

Turn off the electricity

Use the circuit breaker box to shut off the electricity to all affected areas of your property. When water is running through the walls and floors of your building, there's the risk of electrocution anywhere that outlets, lighting fixtures, and electrical lines may have been affected.

Contact professionals 

From your insurance agent to water damage remediation professionals, there are several people to contact right away. These may include the sewage company and other municipal authorities, especially if sewer damage resulted from a location outside of your property. The sooner you get these professionals involved, the better they can help you work through this process.

Mop up water

Use a wet/dry vacuum, towels, rags, mops, and other tools to get the water off the floors and into a drain or outside the property. Remove water as quickly as possible to prevent more damage. Remove waterlogged carpets and furnishings as well.

Open windows and ventilate the property.

In addition to opening the doors and windows, set up powerful fans (if you are sure it's safe to introduce electricity.) The moving air decreases the likelihood of residual moisture and secondary damages.
Sewer damage can be one of the most frustrating problems to affect your Elburn,IL, property. However, taking the right steps can minimize damages until professionals arrive to take over.

How To Clean Up After Your Water Heater Breaks Down

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

A leaking water heater can cause water damage in your North Aurora home

A water heater that has stopped working properly can cause damage in your North Aurora,IL, home, which must be addressed immediately. Before you contact a water restoration specialist, there are several steps that you need to take to keep the damage under control. Follow these guidelines to quickly mitigate the effects of a leaking water heater in your home.

Remove Excess Water

It’s crucial to first get rid of any excess water in your home before it spreads and damages your belongings. Start by mopping and blotting all areas around your house that water has seeped into. Be sure to also wipe away any traces of water that may be found on various items and surfaces, such as:

• Wood furniture
  
• Tabletops
  
• Floors
  
• Areas around your water heater
  
  

The damage caused by excess water from your failed water heater can be hiding in many places throughout your home. Make sure to remove as much leaking water as you can until help arrives.

Move Objects

Once you’ve taken care of any leaking water that could cause immediate damage, survey your possessions and keep them protected from the effects of your leaking water heater. Pick up all loose objects from your floors and move any artwork to a drier area where it will be safe. If any of your cushions have gotten wet, remove them as well and keep them propped up.

Contact a Professional

While you’re trying to prevent further damage to your home from your broken water heater, only do what you can. For the safety of your house, it’s best to call a professional and allow him or her to securely restore any water damage. The advanced methods that specialists use can help to keep any excess water at bay and protect your home.

Water damage from a leaking water heater doesn’t have to become a burden. With the right procedures, you can be one step closer to a restored home.

3 Things You Should Know About Mold

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can grow almost anywhere

How You Can Discover Black Mold in Your Home

At one point or another, it is likely that you have encountered mold in your Batavia,IL  home, whether it was growing on your walls, in your air conditioner or even in a container of long-forgotten leftovers. Here are a few pieces of useful information that might help if you discover black mold in your home.

1. What is Mold?

Mold is a fungus that comes in many varieties. Their colors, smells and other properties vary from species to species. Most types of mold are not harmful, though some can cause discoloration and an unpleasant, musty odor in your home. Black mold is one of these.

2. What Causes It to Grow in Your Home?

One of the reasons that mold is such a common problem is that it is present nearly everywhere. Mold spores in your home can begin to spread quickly when exposed to moisture, as dark and damp environments are where they thrive. For this reason, you can sometimes find mold lurking inside your showers and sinks. If you have any leaks in your home, this can contribute to black mold growth as well.

3. How Can You Get Rid of It?

The truth is that you can’t truly remove mold from your home completely. Mold cleanup can only remove the excessive growth that has formed. You can prevent mold spores from spreading by maintaining your home to prevent broken pipes and repairing any leaks as soon as you spot them. Regularly cleaning your home, particularly in areas with a lot of built-up moisture, can help as well.

While mold is usually not harmful, that doesn’t mean that you want it around. It doesn’t look or smell nice and it can be a pain to get rid of. If you have an infestation in your home, you might want to hire a professional cleanup and restoration service to perform mold remediation. They can remove the growth and help prevent it from returning.

How to Prevent Lint Fires by Cleaning Your Dryer

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

Clean the lint screen to prevent a lint fire in your Geneva, IL home

How to Prevent Lint Fires by Cleaning Your Dryer

It is likely that you have a washing machine and dryer in your Geneva,IL  home. You may not think much about cleaning the lint from your dryer, but failing to do so can result in a lint fire that could cause severe damage to your house and the items in it. To minimize the risk of this happening, be sure to do the following regularly.

1. Clean the Lint Screen

Removing lint from the screen is the most obvious, and the most simple, step in keeping your dryer clean and preventing a lint fire. You should wipe the screen off with your hand or a brush before and after every use. On some occasions, you may need to use soap and water to remove stubborn lint that has built up over time.

2. Clean the Vents and Exhaust Hose

While this step may be less convenient, it is important to clean the vents and exhaust hose of your dryer at least twice a year to reduce the chances of a dryer fire. Be sure to unplug your dryer before you begin any deep cleaning. A cleaning rod can help you remove hard to reach lint.

3. Clean the Interior

Keeping the interior of the dryer clean is important as well. You will need to remove the panel in the back of the appliance to access any lint that has gotten trapped inside. Wipe down and vacuum each area before replacing the panel.

4. Hire a Professional

The best way to ensure your machine is properly cleaned and maintained is to hire a professional service. They will be able to do the job thoroughly to help prevent a lint fire.

While performing routine maintenance on your unit will make a fire less likely, not all accidents can be prevented. If a fire does occur, a fire restoration service can help remove fire damage, repair your home and salvage damaged belongings to help return your home to pre-fire conditions.

Commercial Roof Upkeep

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is available to arrive on a 24/7 basis for emergency cleaning

Tips in How to Keep Your Roof in It's Best Shape All Year

If you are a St. Charles,IL, business owner, you probably take a lot of pride in maintaining your business. Protecting it against roof damage is one way that you can show others how much you care about your company. Here are some tips to remember to keep your roof in its best shape all year.

1. Consider waterproofing. There are several options for waterproofing materials that seal your roof and protect it from sunlight, rain and other causes of cracks. Many can be used without professional help and are fairly easy to apply.

2. Complete some landscape work. Trees and branches can lead to wind damage or damaging debris if they are hanging too far over the roof. You do not want to run the risk of a fallen tree damaging your business and causing safety hazards. Get professional landscaping help if needed to keep your plants safely trimmed.

3. Make inspections a regular routine. Your roof should be given a thorough inspection by whoever knows the most about it at least twice each year. Damaged drainage pipes, cracks and other roof damage red flags should be addressed as soon as possible in order to avoid a complete roof rebuild.

4. Know where to get help. If the worst case scenario occurs and you are left with damage in the aftermath of a St. Charles,IL, storm, local commercial storm damage restoration specialists should be able to help you figure out a cleanup and repair plan to get your business back in the shape it was before the bad weather hit. If you need immediate help, there are many teams that are available to arrive on a 24/7 basis for emergency cleaning.

No one wants to think about the bad things that could happen to their commercial building, but taking care of your property before something urgent occurs can help you prevent any excessive roof damage from occurring in the future.

St. Charles Home Care: The Professional Smoke Cleaning Difference

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

Fire aftermath.

House fires, even small ones, can leave behind a tremendous amount of damage. Flames scorch and heat can warp, but did you know that smoke is also destructive? Greasy residue and ashes corrode your home and personal belongings, while the penetrating odor of smoke reminds you of the shocking event of the fire ravaging your home. Clearing smoke damage is also important for your health. Smoke is a pollutant known to irritate airways and eyes and can cause other adverse health effects.

You may have heard that opening windows to let in fresh air, wiping down hard surfaces with household cleaners, and the passing of time will allow the smoke odor to disappear. Unfortunately, many times, that is not the case. The reasons that DIY methods may not be enough to clean out the smoke scent is that, at a molecular level, smoke particles embed deep into fabrics and crevices. The sticky grease and soot mixture that smoke leaves behind is also a formidable foe.

Smoke damage can also reach farther than you initially realize. While fire damage to you home may be contained to a small area, smoke can flow throughout your entire home. Doors and vents allow the powerful scent of smoke to penetrate into paint, drapes, and carpeting. And when smoke flows into an area of the home with poor airflow, the burned scent can become concentrated and overwhelming.

For stubborn smoke damage jobs like these, your best bet is to call a professional smoke cleaning service. While there are many St Charles fire restoration companies to choose from, only a select few carry the trusted IICRC-approval. Home restoration businesses that have The Institute for Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification follow a higher standard of service.

Training is extensive, cleaning methods are time-tested, and integrity in service is unmatched. If you want extra assurance that smoke damage restoration will be completed by the best, St. Charles SERVPRO technicians go through additional training and certification –surpassing the IICRC standards.

You may think that top professional smoke cleaning services are costly, but consider this:

• Smoke and fire continue to be destructive until it is cleaned and repaired. The sooner you call the professional, the less damage you will incur
• Generally speaking, restoring an item is less expensive than replacing it. Trained technicians, like those from SERVPRO of St. Charles / Geneva / Batavia, can help you decide which items can be salvaged and which need to be replaced.
• Smoke cleaning services may be covered under your homeowners or renters insurance –which could mean little to no cost to you. SERVPRO offers customers a free insurance claims service in which they help you to file your claim. This saves you time and worry!

Professional smoke cleaning may seem unnecessary, that is, until your home has been overtaken by it. Smoke odor is much more than a nuisance. It’s harmful to health, home, and emotional well-being. If you are in need of fire and smoke damage restoration, call SERVPRO of St. Charles / Geneva / Batavia today for a free inspection.

Storm Damage Prevention

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

Storm Damage in a Commercial Building in St. Charles.

St. Charles Home Care: What Every Homeowner Must Know to Reduce Storm Damage

Water damage from severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, ice, and hail is an all too familiar occurrence in St. Charles and surrounding areas. Because our area is prone to severe weather, it is vital to know what you can do to protect your home. This simple checklist can help you prepare your home and minimize the damage caused by a destructive storm.

Check Your Roof and Ceiling

At least quarterly, do a quick visual inspection of the ceilings in your home. Any cracks or discolorations should be further inspected. Discoloration could be a sign of water damage and possible mold growth. If you are unsure, call an expert like SERVPRO of St. Charles / Geneva / Batavia, for a full evaluation and assessment. After walking through the inside of your home, walk around the exterior paying attention to the roof. The older the roof on your home is, the more frequently you should do a quick (from the ground) inspection. In addition, you should walk around your home after every major storm to note any new damage. If you notice any lifting or missing roof tiles, contact a licensed roofing company in your area for a thorough inspection.

Review Gutters and Downspouts

If you have trees close to your home, gutters and downspouts need to be inspected regularly. Leaves, sticks, other debris, and even critters can collect in gutters resulting in poor drainage during severe weather events. Clogged downspouts can be difficult to notice during a storm. The best test is to put your garden hose in the gutter, and turn on the water fully. This can help you assess whether it the gutters and downspouts are clear. Just as important is ensuring that the landscaping and downspouts are directing the water away from the foundation of the home.

4 Residential Flood Proofing Tips

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

Owners of homes in areas that frequently flood may want to invest in sandbag alternatives for flood safety.

Homeowners can follow these four flood prevention and safety tips to promote flood safety and keep water out of a residence in Elburn,IL. While it is helpful to flood-proof a property in advance, residents should comply with evacuation orders to preserve personal safety.

1. Enhance Drainage

It may be possible to significantly reduce the flood risk of a property by hiring landscaping experts to adjust the grading or slope to ensure that water flows away from the foundation. Adding fill to a property located in a flood zone may enable a homeowner to obtain an amendment or revision on the Flood Rate Insurance Map maintained by the National Flood Insurance Program, which may reduce the cost of flood insurance coverage.

2. Invest In Reusable Flood Barriers

Owners of homes in areas that frequently flood may want to invest in sandbag alternatives for flood safety. Choose from water-filled cofferdams or self-stabilizing fence barriers. Absorbent single-use alternatives are also available.

3. Install Backup Prevention Equipment

Flooding can overwhelm a municipal main and result in sewer backups. A homeowner can hire a plumber to determine whether preventative mechanisms such as a backflow valve, standpipe or overhead sewer could be effective solutions for flood proofing a basement.

4. Anchor or Elevate Critical Components

If flooding is anticipated within days or hours, homeowners should make every effort to promote personal safety while limiting losses. Anchor or elevate critical components such as fuel tanks, generators and HVAC units. Raising indoor electrical components can also reduce electrocution risks. Relocate as many appliances as possible above the anticipated flood water level.

These safety tips can reduce the likelihood that flooding will result in extensive damage and losses at a residence. In any case, flood safety is the primary concern. If a residence suffers damage, mitigation and restoration specialists can quickly arrive on site in Elburn,IL.

3 Common Sewage Problems in Commercial Buildings

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes are common, the damage is sudden

Finding sewage problems in your Elburn, IL building can be frustrating. If you are not careful, issues such as a blocked sewer can seemingly come out of nowhere. It is important to perform regular inspections and maintenance of the building in order to prevent any potential damage. The following are a few common problems that you might experience.

1. Broken Pipes

Pipe breaks are not always preventable. In some cases, such as cold weather when frozen pipes are common, the damage is sudden. However, old pipes often break as the result of normal wear and tear on the materials. If the pipes in your building have not been replaced in a while, you should be sure to check them regularly to catch signs of damage early.

2. Backed Up Plumbing

When you have a clogged drain, the water is removed very slowly and sometimes gets backed up. This can cause problems such as sink or toilet overflow. Not only will this be unpleasant to clean up, but it can also create lasting damage if it is not repaired quickly.

3. Sewage Blockages

Plumbing backups are not the only problem that can come from a clogged drain. If you are having trouble with more than one sink or toilet, it is likely that there is a larger issue. A blocked sewer can be the result of buildup in the drains that remove water from your building. This can be caused by disposing of items improperly, such as flushing paper towels down the toilet or pouring grease into the sink. In some cases, it may also be caused by the roots of nearby trees or a collapsed pipe.

While regular maintenance can help prevent certain sewage problems, sometimes they are unavoidable. If you have a blocked sewer or other problem, a damage restoration company can help locate the source of the issue and repair any damage that has been caused.

Preventing the Spread of Mold in Your Rental Property

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Walls were covered with mold, but SERVPRO made it "Like it never even happened."

Spread Mold

While mold prevention is an excellent practice to get into the habit of as a property manager, it doesn't do you much good when you already have an issue. However, prevention can quickly transform into protection when dealing with a current problem, as preventative steps are used instead to reduce the risk of further contamination and exposure.

1. Seal Off Contaminated Areas

Prevention calls for ensuring seals around doors and windows to be intact and tight. The same applies when dealing with mold growth, except you are now ensuring that the contaminated area is well sealed from the rest of the building, meaning that you close all doors and windows to the area. Additionally, you can use plastic sheeting to ensure a tight seal thereby reducing air movement and mold spore spread.

2. Turn Off Water

Mold prevention also mandates that you seal and repair any sources of water damage. When dealing with an area that has already experienced water damage and is currently contributing to mold development, you should turn off the water supply to that area.

3. Control HVAC Settings

While prevention often calls for ventilation, when dealing with an existing fungal problem, ventilation is the enemy because it allows for the spread of spores. Therefore, if you cannot turn off the HVAC system, you should control the temperature settings to reduce the number of times the unit cycles on and to minimize the risk of mold spores getting pushed throughout the system and the property.

4. Hire a Remediation Specialist

It is OK to admit you need help. Calling a mold remediation specialist in the North Aurora, IL, area is probably the wisest decision you can make because they are trained and certified to deal with your current problem.

Mold prevention goes beyond eliminating potential risks as it also relates to controlling and mitigating a current problem. Reduce the air flow in contaminated areas, turn off contributing factors and call a specialist to remediate the situation safely. Don't put yourself or your tenants at risk.

How Does Pretesting Affect Claims?

3/24/2019 (Permalink)

Pretesting can help to determine the full extent of damage to a property before mitigation starts. This preliminary step may increase the accuracy of an initial estimate and could ultimately reduce the total amount of an insurance claim. Learn more about how early testing can potentially impact a claim.

Improving Estimate Accuracy

Preliminary testing can determine the types and precise extent of damage at a property in Batavia, IL. This method goes beyond visual inspection. Mitigation experts may take any of the following measures:

• Testing surfaces for damage
  
• Searching for signs of secondary damage
  
• Inspecting adjoining areas

Pretesting can identify the presence of additional damage that might otherwise be overlooked. Undetected damage could result in serious problems or significantly increase an estimate if it is discovered during mitigation or restoration.

Identifying Additional Damage

Preliminary testing can also determine whether other types of damage are present. In the case of a fire, this may involve additional smoke or soot damage that has traveled through ductwork to other parts of a structure or water damage from extinguishing efforts. In the event of water or storm damage, mold or other secondary damage could be identified through early testing. This damage can then be factored into an initial estimate and work schedule.

Keeping Work On Schedule

If any additional damage is discovered in the midst of mitigation or during restoration, it may add time to the duration of the process. This may result in higher claim amounts for property insurance and possibly also business interruption. Preliminary testing can account for all of the damage that is present at the start of the process.

All of these factors make pretesting well worth any additional expense or time. A property owner or insurance agent should insist on the importance of a thorough initial inspection, particularly when dealing with major damage caused by fire, water or storms.

How To Deal With Frozen Pipes

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes que cause damage to your Geneva, IL home

Winter weather can cause a lot of damage to your home. Prepping for winter means making sure there are no weak areas in your roof, around your windows or in your foundation to let cold air or water in. Other hazards to look out for are frozen pipes. While the best protection is prevention, there are things you can do to salvage pipes before they wreak havoc on your home.

Locating Problems

A pipe freeze will often show up as a faucet that produces little to no water flow. If that happens, start by inspecting pipes in the following areas:

• Near exterior walls
  
• In the attic or basement
  
• In crawlspaces

If there is frozen water in a pipe, it may have already expanded enough to crack. If that is the case, turn off the water main and call a plumber. Warming the pipe up before it's fixed may result in water damage that can only be resolved by water restoration specialists.

Unfreezing Pipes

Sometimes, frozen pipes won't show any signs of stress or breakage. When this happens, you can fix the problem by simply warming the pipe. Keeping faucets open to keep warm water moving through the pipes can accomplish this goal. You can also use a hair dryer to warm up pipes or, if the pipe is metal, a heat gun. Directing warm air from your HVAC unit into the walls can also unfreeze the water in the pipes.

Preventing Freezes

To prevent a pipe freeze, you want to make sure the pipes and the air around them stay warm. Insulate pipes that are particularly vulnerable. Keep the heater on in your home, and circulate the air so that it reaches the pipes. Opening cabinets and closet doors can help facilitate this circulation.

Frozen pipes can cause damage to your home in Geneva, IL, but dealing with this issue is fairly simple. By warming pipes and keeping them that way, you can prevent a lot of water damage.

Mold Remediation: Why Hiring a Professional Is Often Necessary

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a ceiling after water damage.

Is It Necessary To Hire A Professional?

Mold removal may sound like a simple job, but nothing could be further from the truth, especially when dealing with an infestation. Mold spores spread quickly and easily, which means that in a contaminated home it is necessary to seal off registers and doorways to prevent the movement and cross-contamination of the mold species. However, beyond taking the appropriate precautions, hiring a professional for removal has other perks.

1. Pretesting

Reputable remediation experts will perform what is known as pretesting. This involves taking samples of all contaminated surface areas of the home as well as air quality tests. These tests allow experts to determine the mold species and the level of contamination. This determination then informs the remediation team on how to best move forward.

2. Prevention

Mold removal is not only about removing contaminated items and materials, but it is also about preventing the spread of the mold spores to other areas of the home. While spores are everywhere and virtually impossible to remove 100 percent, they can be reduced and controlled to prevent further and future damage to your home.

3. Removal

While some molds can be removed using cautious DIY techniques, black mold removal is not one of those species. In fact, some states and insurers require professional remediation for a black mold infestation to ensure the safety of you and others.

4. Restoration

A bonus to hiring a disaster restoration specialist in the St. Charles, IL, area for your remediation needs is the restoration part. These companies are a one-stop shop for remediation and restoration, meaning that your home will be free of mold and repairs when you get it back.

Mold removal can be a complicated job, one requiring professional assistance. Don't think that because a problem appears small and manageable than it actually is. Hire a professional to perform pretesting and learn about what you are dealing with, and then, if the problem is bigger than expected, hire a remediation and restoration team to take on the work. Stay safe and think of your health.

St. Charles Home Health: The Key to Mold Control is Moisture Control

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Moldy Kitchen Cabinets.

Have you scrubbed, scoured, and cleaned moldy spots in your home only to find the pesky mold growing back or growing in another area of your home? The problem may be high moisture levels. Mold spores are a natural part of the environment and are always present in your home, but when humidity levels are high, or there’s a water source, such as a leak, mold begins to grow. The key to controlling mold infestations is controlling moisture in your home. SERVPRO of St. Charles are mold remediation experts, and we would like to share with you the best moisture control tips to help prevent mold growth in your home.

The Key to Mold Control 

Check humidity levels indoors.

Mold thrives in high humidity environments, and the best way to know the moisture level is to measure it. Hygrometers are hand-held devices that measure moisture levels in the air. They can be used both indoors and out, and are found at hardware stores often near the thermometers. Hygrometers can be built into other appliances such as humidifiers and dehumidifiers. If the humidity level is more than 50%, take extra measures, such as those described below, to reduce moisture levels and reduce the chance of mold growth.

Use a humidistat to control humidity levels indoors.

While the hygrometer measures the moisture levels in the air, a humidistat controls it. Commonly built into other appliances like air conditioners and dehumidifiers, humidistats regulate indoor moisture to your preferred preset level. Appliances with humidistats often come with a higher price tag, but they are often worth the additional cost since the average humidity levels are about 60% in the St. Charles, Batavia, and Geneva area.

Use your air conditioner to reduce humidity.

If you don’t have a humidistat, you can use your air conditioner to help dry out the air. Instead of running cold air all day, program your a/c to run at 72 degrees for about 2 hours before sunrise and at 85 degrees the rest of the day. Opening windows and using fans are also helpful, however if humidity is already high outdoors, it’s best to use your air conditioner for air circulation and moisture control.

Use your exhaust fans.

Moisture levels can rise quickly in your kitchen and bathroom. Make sure that the exhaust fans are in good working order and clean. Range hoods can get clogged with grease that prevents optimum ventilation so be sure to clean it often.

Correct leaks quickly…even small ones.

It may be tempting to place a bucket under a slow leak and tend to it later, but any excess moisture in the home invites mold growth. Buckets overflow, leaks are forgotten or get worse, and before you realize it, you have water damage and mold growing in your home. As soon as you find a leak, fix it and promptly dry any wet areas. If water damage is extensive, hire a trusted water damage restoration company, such as St. Charles SERVPRO, to do the clean up and repairs for you.

Controlling moisture levels in the home takes effort, but it’s worth it. Mold infestations inside the home can negatively affect health and cause costly damages−damages that can be avoided or lessened if moisture control measures are taken. For a thorough inspection of Batavia water damage and possible mold growth, call us at St. Charles SERVPRO. Also servicing the Geneva area, St. Charles SERVPRO is the mold remediation expert, and we look forward to helping you achieve a clean and mold-free home.

Regional Disasters Require a National Response

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Contact the cleaning and restoration company that is faster to any size disaster

Regional Disasters

Regional disasters occur more often than we would like. Damage is usually extensive, and the region cannot recover without outside help. Even before the disaster is complete, the road fills with response teams from:

• Fire and rescue departments and agencies
• Power companies
• Cable TV and internet service providers
• Grocery and restaurant chains
• Hotels
• Medical facilities
• The cleaning and restoration company that is faster to any size disaster

There Are Many Different Ways To Respond to Disasters
The listed companies each respond to in their own way. Power, cable and emergency services have reciprocal agreements to send crews when needed. Grocery stores, restaurants and hotels take care of their own. Large hospitals and medical facilities assemble, equip and deliver teams of medical professionals.

One Company Takes a Unique Approach
The cleaning and restoration company takes a different approach. On a typical day, it looks like a group of over 1,700 independently owned and operated franchises. They deal with damage of all types including fire, water and storm. They perform cleanups and restorations in the nearby cities and towns. For the employees, it’s a peaceful day-to-day job.

Looks Are Deceiving
When disaster strikes, this company stands tall. Faster to any size disaster is not just a catchy phrase. Those home town franchises are part of a tightly connected network of providers. The central office of this network regulates all activity in the disaster area.

It begins with franchisees transferring teams and equipment to the disaster area. The company’s central office logs each insurance claim and assigns it to an appropriate team. In a disaster situation, the number and density of claims are high. Teams may find themselves working on multiple claims at the same time.

Make it Look “Like it never even happened.”
This is the ultimate goal of all cleaning and restoration projects. If you need this done in the North Aurora, IL, area, getting help is easy. Contact the cleaning and restoration company that is faster to any size disaster.

Flood or Storm Damage: When is a Flood a Flood

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Flood Damage in Batavia, IL.

Definition of Flood And Stormwater Damage

Flooding is one of those issues that causes a lot of controversy around the idea of insurance coverage. While flood damage requires individual riders and sometimes special policies, storm damage is often covered under a typical business policy. Why is that, and what exactly is the difference between flood and stormwater damage? The critical issue is in the definition of flood and stormwater.

1. Flood Water

Flood water is defined by territory and natural formation. Therefore, overflowing rivers, lakes, creeks, watercourses and dams are considered floods. Water overflowing from these areas and into your building will require coverage from an individual insurance rider or policy.

2. Stormwater

Stormwater refers to water overflowing from drains due to backups or rainwater. This type of flood damage is considered damage from a storm or other humanmade issue. However, while most policies will cover this type of damage, you may require special insurance coverage for your surrounding property or possible business interruption.

3. Water Damage Overlap

There are instances where both rainwater and overflowing rivers cause flooding. In these instances, it is up to your insurer what items are covered or not, likely anything explicitly caused by rainwater and damaging your property will be covered, but this can be hard to prove.

4. Water Coverage and Recovery

The most practical thing to do is to get a flood insurance rider if you are in a moderate to high-risk flood zone. By covering multiple possibilities, you can ensure a better outcome. Call your insurer or a flood remediation specialist in the Batavia,IL, area to discuss your options further.

Flood damage is unique in that its causes vary wildly from natural occurrences to humanmade crisis but that it is not as broadly covered by insurance policies. Insurers define flood water and stormwater in different ways which may result in the necessity of multiple policies or riders.

Watch Out for the Top 3 Leading Causes of a Home Fire

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

A fire place is an example of a possible source of a heating fire

Watch Out for the Top 3 Leading Causes of a Home Fire

For most people, their house is much more than just a building that they live in; it is a home where they make precious memories and feel the most secure. Going through a home fire that damages your home and destroys sentimental belongings can be extremely devastating. Although a fire restoration company can help reconstruct your home in St. Charles, IL, and deal with the fire cleaning, you will likely still experience some loss. It is important to be educated on how house fires often happen so you can prevent this terrible situation from every happening to you. Here are the top three leading causes to watch out for.

1. Cooking Equipment

Between oil spill, electrical appliances, open flames, and extremely hot temperatures, your kitchen is just a fire waiting to happen if you’re not careful. Keep your family and your home safe by making sure you keep the following tips in mind:

• Never leave cooking food unattended
  
• Keep flammable objects off your stovetop
  
• Check the wires on your appliances
  
• Keep oil splatter to a minimum
  
• Keep a metal lid or pan close by when frying
  
  

2. Smoking Indoors

While many people choose to smoke outdoors to keep smells and lingering smoke out of their homes, preventing a home fire is another good reason to add to the list. In fact, smoking in bedrooms is the top cause of house fire fatalities. Leftover cigarette butts and embers that accidentally fall onto the ground or furniture can quickly catch flame.

3. Heating

Portable space heaters, furnaces, boilers, and fire places are all examples of possible sources of a heating fire. Make sure to keep up on maintenance tasks for all of these types of equipment, and always keep flammable objects at a safe distance away.

Fortunately, there are many steps and precautions you can take to prevent a home fire. Start by focusing on these three top fire causes to help keep your family and home safe all year long!

The Truth About What You Need To Do With Belongings Affected by Mold Damage

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Since mold likes to attach itself to a large number of different types of surfaces, your personal belongings may be affected as well.

The Truth About What You Need To Do With Belongings Affected by Mold Damage

If you’ve recently discovered mold in your home in St. Charles, IL you might be devastated to discover that the extent of the damage goes beyond the structure of your home. Since mold likes to attach itself to a large number of different types of surfaces, your personal belongings may be affected as well. The good news is that mold cleaning is possible for many different types of items around your home!

The Inspection Process

When a mold remediation specialist surveys the damage caused by mold to your home, they will inspect all the items affected. Often, the first step involves identifying whether items are porous, semi-porous, or non-porous. Porous surfaces have holes that quickly absorb water or other particles. Here are some examples of porous items:

• Paper
• Books
• Carpet
• Cardboard
• Mattresses
• Stuffed animals 

Porous items that have experienced mold damage require a more extensive cleaning process, so they are often thrown out if they are not of any value. However, items of sentimental value or important documents can be restored using special mold cleaning methods. It is important to consider the cost of cleaning particular items when determining whether you should keep them or throw them away.

Item Restoration

Once the items you want to have restored are identified, the restoration specialist will identify the best cleaning method depending on type of object affected. While non-porous surfaces can often be washed using dry and wet cleaning, spray and wipe cleaning, or abrasive and immersion cleaning, some items require special handling. For example, electronics, documents, photographs, and upholstery fabrics will go through a specialized mold cleaning process that will prevent further damage or corrosion from occurring.

While there is no guarantee that all of your items can be salvaged, it is certainly a relief to learn that you don’t need to throw out everything you own that has been affected by mold! With the help of a mold remediation specialist, you will be able to restore many of your most valuable belongings.

3 Potential Reasons You Have Noisy Pipes

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Copper pipes tend to expand when hot water passes through them.

Noisy Pipes In Your Home

Your home in St. Charles,IL , should be a comfortable and quiet place. If you have a noisy plumbing system, though, knocks and creaks could keep you up at night. While avoiding a pipe break is likely your primary concern, you may want to quiet your loud pipes. Here are three potential reasons you have noisy pipes in your home.

1. You Have Copper Pipes

Copper pipes tend to expand when hot water passes through them. When you switch to cold water, copper pipes quickly contract. This expansion and contraction can make your plumbing system noisy. While you probably don’t have to worry about a pipe burst, the noise may annoy you. By lowering the temperature on your water heater, you may be able to effectively stop the creaks and pops.

2. A Water Hammer Hits Your Valve

A water hammer occurs when pressured water hits the shut-off valve. Unlike noises from copper pipes, a water hammer may cause a pipe break. You may be able to fix the problem by tinkering with the air chamber in your plumbing system. If the water hammer causes a break, you must fix the broken pipe. Then, work with a water cleanup service to be sure you successfully control flood damage.

3. Water Pressure Plagues Your Plumbing System

Finally, you may have too much water pressure surging through your pipes. While high pressure is good for washing dishes, filling water bottles and showering, it can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. If you think water pressure is the source of your noisy pipes, adjust the pressure regulator.

Noisy pipes can be unbelievably annoying. Depending on the cause of pipe noise, your loud pipes could be a sign of a bigger problem with your plumbing system. By understanding what causes pipes to creak, moan and snap, you can develop a plan for protecting your home’s plumbing.

Mitigation Companies vs. Restoration Companies What’s the Difference?

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

Board up commercial building in St. Charles, IL

Mitigation or restoration - these are common terms to come across when handling fire damage cleanup, and for the novice, it may not seem like there’s much of a difference. But the fact is, there are significant differences which can have major financial impacts: Some insurance plans cover mitigation services after a disaster and others only cover restoration services. Not knowing the difference can cost you big. Learn more about the difference between these two services and how they can help your St. Charles,IL, business in the wake of fire damage.

What’s Mitigation?

Many companies advertise themselves as fire mitigation specialists. Mitigation generally refers to reducing the severity of something, in this case, the impact of fire damage. Mitigation companies try to limit ongoing damage and stave off continued losses using tools and methods like:

• boarding up windows
  
• Adding roof tarps
  
• Removing water from firefighting efforts
  
• Securing the structure against collapse
  

It’s important to understand that they do not repair or replace, but rather, ensure the disaster doesn’t continue to have consequences.

What’s Fire Restoration?

After mitigation, it’s time for restoration. Restoration experts aim to rebuild and repair your property. They may replace walls damaged by fire or floors and carpets damaged by standing water. They can combat mold, odors and infestations, while making your property livable again. The key difference between restoration and mitigation is how it enables you to move forward. Mitigation sets the stage for fire cleanup. Restoration allows your business to get back to normal.

Fire restoration efforts pair naturally with mitigation and it’s not a question of one being better than the other, rather, which one you need at the time. The fact is, you’ll probably need both, but you may need to figure out which one insurance covers and which one you’ll need to finance. Talk to your insurance adjuster to learn about your options.

5 Steps To Stop Constant Flushing

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

A toilet that flushes repeatedly can cause a lot of problems in your commercial building. It can result in toilet overflow, and it can significantly increase your utility bill. The flushometer is designed to flush a commercial toilet efficiently, but if it malfunctions, it keeps flushing, even when it doesn't need to do so. Here are five steps to fix the problem.

1. Turn Off Water

When you look at your manual flushometer, you should see the slot where the screwdriver head goes. Insert the screwdriver and turn until the water source is shut off. This will help prevent a toilet flood while you are working on it.

2. Take Off Lid

Remove the lid of the flushometer. You may have to use a wrench to get it started, but after that you should be able to unscrew it by hand.

3. Reveal the Gasket

When you remove the flange, you should see the gasket. The most cause of flushometer malfunction is a clogged gasket. Right away, you can tell if there is a problem because the gasket and possibly the weep hold will be full of sediment.

4. Clean the Gasket

Remove the gasket and clean it thoroughly to prevent further toilet overflow that has to be mitigated by water restoration professionals. Wash the gasket and, using a small tool such as a pin, clear out the weep hole port.

5. Reassemble the Flushometer

Place the cleaned gasket back into the flushometer. Screw the lid back on, tightening it with a wrench if necessary. Turn the water back on see if the problem is resolved. If not, you may have to call a plumber in Batavia,IL, who can stop a toilet from running.

It's important to make sure the plumbing in your commercial building is working properly. To prevent toilet overflow, clean the gasket on your flushometers regularly.

Water in Light Fixtures? Safety First!

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Water in a light fixture in a St.Charles home

Unless you live in a clam shell in Triton’s kingdom under the sea, you shouldn’t see water in your light fixtures. When your home is in St. Charles,IL, water in such a place is a dangerous problem that needs to be addressed quickly. Here are some important things to do to resolve the problem and prevent further damage.

Stay Safe

When it comes to water in a light fixture, your first step is safety. Here are three things to do to keep everyone safe:

1. Turn off electricity. Throw the breakers for the affected locations. If you are in doubt, turn off power to the whole house before proceeding.

2. Cordon off unsafe areas. You may have some ceiling damage, so look for sagging ceilings or stains to indicate its location and take caution until you find the source of the leak. Prevent children and other family members from being under or above the damaged area.

3. Stop the leak. Finding the leak may be a challenge, but once you have the electricity off, you can proceed without risk of electrocution. Turn off the water supply to prevent further damage until you can repair the source of the leak.

Prevent Secondary Damage

A sneaky ceiling leak causes a lot of damage. You may need a professional for help with structural and electrical repairs, and prevention of subsequent damage is key. Water-damaged household materials are a prime breeding ground for mold. This is a key point of recovery when a professional flood remediator can save you time and money by working quickly to either remove materials or dry those that can be salvaged.

Act Fast

Keep in mind that mold starts to develop fast, in as few as 48 hours. Prompt and thorough action is key to minimizing damage. Remember that safety is the first step whenever you have water in a light fixture or flood damage in a ceiling.

Steps To Take After a Fire

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Geneva,IL

Are you Prepared?

It's hard to imagine a fire happening to you, but what if your home does catch fire? Are you prepared? Do you know what to do? When you're in the midst of the crisis, it can be hard to decide which steps should be completed first. However, as you work with fire restoration professionals, you'll be able to get your life back on track.

1. Contact Your Insurance Agent

As soon as possible, call your insurance agent. Before the smoke from the fire clears, you'll get phone calls from contractors and other professionals with services to help you. Before you sign any paperwork, however, you'll want to know exactly what your fire insurance policy is going to cover.

2. Contact a Fire and Smoke Restoration Company

The clean up that happens right after the fire can have long-term effects on the rest of the restoration process. Your insurance company may recommend specific fire restoration professionals in Geneva,IL. These experts have dealt with many fires and have the specialized training, equipment, and cleaners to protect your home.

3. Categorize Your Belongings

In addition to separating those items that have been damaged from those that are still in good condition, you'll want to take an inventory of your losses. Separating your items into groups makes this process easier. Ask your insurance company about the information they need.

4. Arrange a Place to Stay Throughout the Reconstruction Process

After the fire and smoke cleaning professionals have had a chance to inspect your property, they can give you an estimate of how long the clean up and restoration process will take. At this point, make plans to stay at a Geneva,IL, hotel or with family and friends who are willing to host you. In some cases, fire insurance policies will pay for food, clothing, and shelter.

Before you need to worry about fire restoration services, take steps to prevent fires. Make sure you have adequate insurance policies in place. Plan ahead to avoid trouble in the future.

Mold And Your Home

12/7/2018 (Permalink)

Mold On Kitchen Cabinets

What You Need To Know About Mold and Your Home

Mold and mildew are common nuisances for homeowners in Geneva. Whether the mold growth is caused by a slight rise in humidity or by water damage from a leak or flood, fungus is a frequent problem in our community. If not taken care of properly, mold can have serious effects on both home and health. That is why it is vital that you call on the experts in mold removal in Geneva.

These are items concerned homeowners need to know about mold in the home:

Mold Growth Causes Health Problems

Mold growth in the home can negatively affect the health of your family and pets. If you suspect that mold exposure is causing health problems, seek help from your medical professional first and also call a trusted mold remediation service in Geneva to get your home thoroughly inspected and restored back to healthy living standard.

Mold Growth Causes Structural Damage

Mold growth is not only unsightly but, in fact, can cause significant damage to the integrity of your home. The damage can be in the form of weakened drywall, structural beams, and ceiling joists. Mold growth from water damage in Geneva is something that concerns our community as we are frequently affected by flooding from local waterways. After the water has subsided and the outer structure of your home has dried, mold growth behind walls, under carpeting and other hidden places in your home is still possible. It is important to have your home thoroughly and professionally inspected after water damage has occurred to ensure that your home is mold-free and healthy.

Geneva SERVPRO is the trusted leader in our community when it comes to mold remediation and water damage restoration. We understand the challenges and have the expertise to quickly and fully restore your home. Beginning with a quick phone call, our professional team will initiate the process of assessing the damage and immediately get to work on eliminating the effects of mold to your home.

Commercial Water Damage

12/7/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial dry-out

Commercial Water Damage

Whether office, warehouse, restaurant, school, or other commercial building, a professional water damage restoration firm such as St. Charles SERVPRO is prepared to handle all aspects of restoration –big or small.

Learn more about how an IICRC certified water damage restoration firm handles commercial water damage.

One of the first critical steps to flood damage restoration is responding quickly. The longer your business is exposed to excess moisture, the more extensive the water damage will be. Water degrades furniture, weakens structures, and can permanently damage electrical items such as computers and printers. Calling on a water damage restoration company with a fast response time will give you the best chances of saving the things you need to service your customers.

When you call on St. Charles SERVPRO, the technicians arrive at your place of business ready to assess the damage. With meters to detect moisture levels and a professional visual inspection, SERVPRO can give you an initial estimation of what it will take to dry and restore your business as well as an estimate of how long it will take.

This preliminary inspection also serves to begin an insurance claim process. SERVPRO has a dedicated department that deals directly with insurance companies. SERVPRO database securely stores all the information that your insurance will need to expedite the restoration process.

Soon after this initial inspection, technicians work on removing standing water. Using powerful pumps mounted on SERVPRO’s familiar bright green vans, all traces of standing water is removed. Extracting excess water in less than 24 hours from primary exposure is ideal. Water can cause warping of wood and cause carpeting to deteriorate. However, quick and efficient drying will give you the best chances of salvaging your flooring.

The drying process continues with the use of other professional grade equipment such as high-speed air movers and dehumidifiers. The drying process is a fundamental part of water damage restoration, including mold damage prevention. The key to doing this critical role both quickly and efficiently is to train. SERVPRO technicians are considered some of the highest trained commercial restoration professionals.

Debris brought in by floodwaters, and flood-damaged items are discarded, while your dedicated water damage cleanup crew gets to work on cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing your business. Any items that were salvageable will be brought back in their restored condition, making it all the closer to business as usual.

Storm Flooding

12/7/2018 (Permalink)

Mold on Cabinets

Managing Stress From Storm Flooding

Summer is a time to relax and be carefree, but this past June, summer in St. Charles proved to be otherwise. Local creeks overflowed with the sudden 5" rain downpour, reminding us of the 2008 St. Charles storm flooding. Natural disasters like these and those we saw in Louisiana, take a toll on you emotionally and managing your stress is a vital part of the recovery process.

SERVPRO of St. Charles, Batavia, and Geneva know all too well the anxiety you feel --we’ve aided hundreds in your community with storm damage restoration in the severest of weather.

Resilience, or the ability to bounce back quickly, is essential to managing stress after a traumatic event. Helping you, your family, and your home recover quickly is our goal at SERVPRO. Here are ways that SERVPRO customers that were in your situation managed their stress and built resilience after severe flooding.

Make Connections

Stress not only makes you feel wound up and uneasy, but it can also make you feel isolated –further magnifying your stress and delaying emotional recovery. Look to create connections with others to ward off feelings of loneliness. Seek others that were also affected by flood damage in St. Charles. Sharing your experience and listening to theirs is a simple but useful tool to lessen flood-related stress.

Limit News Stories on the Flood Damage

While keeping up with flood warnings is a good idea, try to limit general news coverage on storm flooding. Watching graphic images of floodwaters wreck havoc on your community heightens your levels of stress and can even make you feel as if you are reliving the trauma.

Care for Your Body

Emotional distress takes an immense toll on your body. It’s a burden that feels heavier when healthy habits are also lacking. Even the smallest of changes can have an enormous impact on your health and overall well-being. Taking daily walks, practicing mindful breathing, and reaching for a glass of water instead of soda or juice all add up to significant stress reduction and a resilient self.

Remind Yourself That Brighter Days are Ahead

Inch-by-inch, day-by-day, recovery is happening. In fact, you may be surprised at how fast storm damage restoration to your home can occur. At St. Charles SERVPRO, also serving Geneva and Batavia, we understand that a critical part of your emotional recovery is restoring your home. That’s why we promise to you that we will be at your home or business within hours of your call –not days. Starting the cleanup as soon as possible helps to reduce the water damage to your home and also reduces your anxiety. To help further ease your stress, SERVPRO of St. Charles helps you with the flood claims process, allowing you to focus on more important matters –like yourself and your family.

Save this phone number on your cell, (603) 377-7063, and rest assured that stress-free, hassle-free storm flooding restoration is moments away.

What You Need To Know About Commercial Mold-Removal Regulations

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Mold containment in a North Aurora,IL building

Investing in commercial property is usually an effective way to make money in North Aurora,IL. Of course, your rental property can only bring in income if you can attract tenants. As you probably know, mold growth has a way of driving tenants away. If you notice mold in one of your units, you must prioritize its removal. You must also be sure you comply with federal, state and local mold standards.

A Few Agencies Regulate Commercial Mold Removal

While black mold has developed a nefarious reputation in recent years, it isn’t the only type of mold that can devalue your investment property. When you are removing mold from commercial property, you must be careful to follow the law. A few agencies regulate the mold clean process, including:

• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
  
• The Environmental Protection Agency
  
• State and local environmental agencies
  

OSHA’s mission is to keep employees safe at work. For that reason, the agency has developed mold standards that protect employee health. By contrast, the goal of the EPA is to safeguard the environment. Therefore, regulations from that agency direct the removal and disposal of mold and cleaning products.

A Nonprofit Certifies Cleanup Technicians

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification certifies mold-mitigation specialists. Those who pursue certification from IICRC learn about mold-removal rules and regulations. If you choose to contract with a certified technician, you can be certain your cleanup strategy complies with both OSHA and EPA regulations. Even better, because skilled technicians have the equipment and expertise to effectively remove existing mold and prevent future mold growth, you achieve peace of mind by leaving your cleanup to the professionals.

Few things can jeopardize the income potential of commercial property faster than mold growth. If you don’t comply with mold standards, though, you could further devalue your commercial investment. Rather than leaving your property to chance, rely on the expertise of skilled technicians who know how to remove mold legally.

4 Things You Should Know About Cleaning Up Smoke After a Fire

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

Soot damage in Geneva,IL

Dealing with Smoke Damage

The odor of smoke left behind after a fire can be irritating to skin and lungs, putrefying to your nose and stomach, and a sickening reminder of a traumatic event. But smoke damage and soot must be cleaned by someone trained to do so. Business owners in Geneva,IL, would be wise to call on professionals for help in dealing with smoke cleaning.

1. Damage from Smoke

Smoke damage alone may not mean the end of your belongings, but in some cases it may stain or saturate. For non-porous items, a thorough cleaning with an antiseptic may be all that is needed. Fabric items will need to be laundered, bleached or dry-cleaned to remove the residue.

2. Damage from Soot

Soot usually contains harmful compounds. It can be very sticky or greasy, making complete removal difficult. On hard-surfaces, soot damage might be scrubbed away with tri-sodium phosphate and detergent, while fragile or fabric items may be more difficult. A fire restoration company can be a great help in sorting it all out.

3. Chemical Residue from Electronics

The smoke from a fire, particularly at a business where plastics and electronics are used can have a high chemical content. Plastics give off an oily and irritating chemical when burned and smoke from burning electronics and wiring has a nasty, rancid fish odor.

4. Foul Odor

In addition to any stains and residue, smoke and soot can have a foul and lingering odor. Important papers and other porous, non-washable items may need to be placed in a tent with an ozone machine. Commercial ultrasonic purifiers may be necessary to help remove odor from furniture, walls, and floors. Air conditioning and filtration systems cleaned to prevent the residue and odor lurking there from causing problems.

Smoke cleaning is so much more than just dealing with the odor. Hiring someone in Geneva,IL, to perform a fire damage assessment and assist with the difficult cleanup issues that smoke damage causes can help restore your business and your peace of mind.

5 Tips for Preparing for a Storm

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

Flood damage in a Elburn, IL home

Protect Your Home From Water Damage

The storms in Elburn,IL, can bring flood water to you home. This can cause a number of problems for both the house and your family. However, there are a few things you can do to protect your home from water damage.

1. Know What to Expect

One of the first steps is to know what to expect when it comes to flooding in your area. Perhaps you get a lot of storms, or a local river swells with the spring thaw? Are you at the bottom of a watershed? These factors can help you predict the likelihood of a flood in your area, as well as the water patterns. Knowing this can help you plan accordingly.

2. Keep Your Insurance Up-to-date

In many cases insurance plans will cover water damage. It’s important to keep your policy up-to-date as well as make sure you’re covered for events like flooding or storm damage.

3. Have Supplies Ready

If you think you may be dealing with flood water in your area it’s important to have supplies ready just in case. Think of things like medication or your pet’s needs, as well as what you will need if the power goes out. Extra batteries, a first aid kit, and protective gear are all important supplies to have on hand.

4. Protect Your Home

There are several ways to help prevent a flooded building. Preparations beforehand may include sandbagging doors, boarding over windows, or tarping over vulnerable areas.

5. Have a Plan for Cleanup

Having a cleanup plan before a flood happens can help save valuable time after the storm. Make contingencies for water removal, sanitation, and even repairs common to such events. You may even want to have the contact information for a local water damage and restoration specialist in case you need extra help.

Taking these steps can help you protect your home against flood water. Being prepared beforehand can also help you have a plan in place in case flooding does breach your property next time a storm in Elburn,IL, heads your way.

How Many Fire Alarms Do You Need?

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

A fire alarm can alert you to the presence of a fire in your Batavia,IL home

A fire alarm can save lives in the event of a house fire. You will likely need more than one smoke alarm to protect your family from harm. These three considerations will help you determine the number of alarms to install in your home in Batavia,IL.

1. How Many Bedrooms Does Your Home Have?

The National Fire Protection Association recommends installing a smoke alarm in every bedroom of a home. Fires can pose a major threat when your family is sleeping. These alarms can ensure that every family member awakens in the event of a fire.

2. How Many Sleeping Areas Are in Your Home?

Advance warning can save lives. Installing more fire alarms outside of sleeping areas increases the chances that you will wake up or be apprised of the presence of fire and do so with enough to time to consider the best evacuation options. Be sure to develop a fire safety plan with primary and secondary escape routes from every room.

3. How Many Levels Does Your Home Have?

Every story of a home needs a fire alarm, including the basement. A two story home with a basement and three bedrooms will need at least five alarms. Make sure to replace the batteries in each alarm at least once a year and replace the alarms every eight to 10 years.

A fire alarm can alert occupants to the presence of a fire and enable them to attempt suppression, evacuate, or seal in. If a fire is raging by the time you discover it, either evacuate or seal into a room with a window and a phone. Close the door and cover cracks and air vents with duct tape or towel. Call firefighters and provide your exact location. If your home sustains fire damage or smoke damage, contact a residential mitigation and restoration company in Batavia,IL.

4 Steps for Obtaining Tax Relief After a Storm

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

If your business has experienced storm damage take the following steps to obtain tax deductible aid

Recovering from a major disaster, such as a hurricane or other storm in Batavia,IL, can be difficult, especially when you factor in financial losses. The good news is that you may be able to qualify for a tax break that provides funding for the gap between your actual losses and compensation you received from your insurance company. If your business has experienced storm damage, take the following steps to obtain tax deductible aid.

1. File a Claim

Sometimes, property owners have their property fully insured, but fail to submit a claim to their insurance company. When this happens, there isn't an option to take the storm damage tax deduction. The simple solution to this is to file an insurance claim, even if you believe you won't be approved.

2. Complete the Proper Steps

To take the tax write-off for damages to property, it's best to contact the IRS for special help and to obtain the necessary forms. You may be familiar with the $100 rule and the deadlines in place to get tax relief for personal losses, but the laws that apply to business and income properties are different.

3. Understand the Provisions

Special circumstances may lead to tax law provisions that work in your favor – if you know how to access those provisions. For example, if the federal government declares your community to be a major disaster area, you may have extra time to file your taxes or you may be able to get a refund more quickly. Either of these provisions could provide some necessary relief that helps you get your business up and running again.

4. Visit the IRS Website

There are several sections and documents posted on the IRS website that can help you deduct storm damage from your upcoming taxes. Use the Disaster Resource Guide for Individuals and Businesses (Publication 2194) to claim casualty losses on your property or the tip section on how to move forward when commercial crops have been destroyed.

When storms threaten to put your business underwater, take advantage of the many resources available. After filing an insurance claim, be sure to contact the government for further assistance. Don’t forget to reach out to remediation and recovery professionals as well.

Why Does Your Toilet Overflow When You Shower?

10/12/2018 (Permalink)

A clogged pipe in your St.Charles,IL bathroom can cause the toilet to overflow

Nobody wants to have to deal with a toilet overflow. Not only can the water that runs over the top of a toilet be disgusting to clean up, but it can also destroy tile, wood floors and bathroom fixtures. Most overflows occur immediately after flushing the toilet. These are usually the result of a clog in the toilet itself. If your toilet overflows when you are showering, however, the problem may be deeper inside your overall plumbing system. Before schedule sewage cleaning, you should know a few things about the workings of your toilet and your shower.

A Deep-Down Clog

When a toilet overflows while you are in the shower, the culprit is usually a clogged pipe between the toilet and the sewer system. When your shower drains, wastewater is unable to makes it way past the clog. Instead, it eventually backs up into the toilet, causing an overflow. Deep-down clogs may be due to a variety of factors, including:

• Wash cloths, rings and other artificial debris
• Hair
• Tree roots
• Disintegrating or collapsed pipes

A Clog-Removal Strategy
Removing the sort of clogs that cause water backups is often a do-it-yourself project. It is sometimes possible to push clogs through with a plunger. If that doesn’t work, you may need to add a snake to your sewage cleaning strategy. You can likely use the snake to reach the clog either through the toilet or the drain clean out. If the snake doesn’t do the trick, you may need to call in a plumber.

A Way To Address Black Water
You don’t have to deal with an overflowing toilet in your St. Charles,IL, home. Instead, understand the cause of your overflowing toilet and work to remove drain clogs. Remember, though, black water usually contains untreated sewage that can be hazardous. If your toilet overflows, hiring a professional restoration specialist is usually your best bet. These experts have the knowledge, skill and equipment to effectively deal with contaminated bathroom surfaces.

4 Key Practices To Keep Toilets From Clogging at Your Business

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help with your commercial water loss in Batavia, IL

As a business, your restrooms are used by both employees and customers. It’s important that these facilities are appropriately designed and adequately equipped for proper use. Here are four ways to help prevent a clogged toilet from happening at your Batavia,IL , business.

1. Make Sure Your Facilities Are Adequate

Certain toilets are more prone to flushing problems than others. For example, early generation low-flow models clog more often because of poorly designed flow pressure.

As a cheaper alternative to replacing models, a different brand of toilet paper that’s thinner may be worth trying. If clogs still regularly occur afterwards, it is likely more economical to replace the toilet rather than treat any water damage from the repeated toilet overflow.

2. Keep Non-Flushable Offerings Away From the Toilets

To encourage proper disposal, sanitary supplies offered in your business bathrooms should be kept away from any toilets. Complimentary items like cotton tips, diapers or tampons should instead be kept near trash cans. A clogged toilet is less likely when flushing trash becomes a hassle instead of a convenience.

3. Place Several Accessible and Regularly Emptied Waste Bins

A trash can that isn’t overflowing is likely to be used to throw away anything not soiled. It’s good practice to put a small bin in each toilet area to give an option to people who decide to throw something away while still maintaining privacy. It’s important that these bins are also regularly emptied to maintain them as a usable option for disposal.

4. Post Signs

A posted reminder over the toilet to use the trash may do wonders at stopping any unwanted behavior. People may not evaluate the consequences of flushing something down your pipes, so a courteous reminder of the risks will often encourage people to behave appropriately.

Regardless of your best efforts, you could still end up with sewage backup. This water is contaminated and may need the equipment and expertise of a professional water damage cleanup service. Taking steps to prevent a clogged toilet can help lessen the likelihood of damage, so you should implement changes now to protect your business from unwanted, unsanitary flooding.

Black Water Facts

9/21/2018 (Permalink)

Floodwater damage in a Geneva, IL home

To folks who own homes in Geneva,IL , the prospect of floodwater damage in the aftermath of water infiltration can be a chilling thought. The type of inundation makes a difference in what will likely be required for effective remediation, and some floods are definitely worse than others.

Defining Characteristics

Black water is the term used to describe a type of liquid that presents a risk to the health of humans and animals upon exposure. Sources of this unsanitary condition include the following:

• Sewage from a toilet or bidet containing urine and fecal matter
• Flood water from rivers and streams
• Ground surface water entering a home or building

Aside from the expense and inconvenience of water damage, serious illness and disease can result from encountering unsanitary water in various ways. Ingesting it, inhaling it in droplet form, and even exposing broken or unbroken skin can be hazardous to one’s health. Campylobacteriosis, cryptosporidiosis, giardiasis, leptospirosis and gastroenteritis are common infections caused by this kind of exposure and typically produce diarrhea, fever and chills. More serious threats include hepatitis and infected wounds that can escalate to become life-threatening, especially if left untreated.

Remedying Concerns

A timely and professional response is crucial in remediating a home compromised by raw sewage. Contaminated water must be extracted, and an assessment of what can withstand antimicrobial cleaning, and what must be discarded, must be made. Because mold can begin growing within hours of a deluge, thorough drying of the area is likely to be one of the first steps to take.

Water damage of any kind is an event that no homeowner relishes, but the presence of biohazards can add anxiety to an already challenging situation. Bringing a home back to its pre-flood cleanliness and comfort is doable in most situations. Safe and effective industry-standard procedures have been developed and can take away the worry associated with black water flooding.

Swamp Cooler Maintenance Is a Key To Mold Prevention

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

You can prevent mold damage in your St. Charles, IL home

Swamp coolers provide an economical way to keep your house cool, but they introduce moisture into an otherwise dry home. If you have a properly maintained cooler, monitor the humidity levels and are on the lookout for mold or a musty smell, you are probably going to be mold-free. If you have a leaking swamp cooler and it goes unnoticed, you could have problems. Swamp coolers can leak for several reasons.

• The plumbing connections to the cooler could be loose or corroded.
• The pads are loose, have become dislodged or need to be replaced.
• The float valve that maintains the water level allows the water in the reservoir to overflow.
• The reservoir is cracked or otherwise damaged, allowing water to leak into the house.
• The residue from hard water evaporation negatively affects its operation.

Have Your Swamp Cooler Checked Regularly

By the time you realize that you have a leaking swamp cooler, you may already have a mold problem. With swamp coolers, the best approach to leaks is to prevent them or catch them early. Schedule an appointment to have your cooler inspected and tested. That would also be a good time to have the pad changed and look for evidence of leaks.

Do Not Let Your Swamp Cooler Operate Unattended
This is not to say that you should turn it off before going to the grocery store and turn it back on when you return. This refers to times when you are away, and no one is keeping an eye on your house because changes in the weather or failure of your cooler can change the amount of moisture being delivered into your house.

You Don't Need a Swamp Cooler To Have a Mold Problem
A leaking swamp cooler is only one of many problems that can trigger mold growth. Mold problems can occur anywhere that mold can find moisture and food, including St. Charles,IL . If you have a mold problem, it’s best to have nearby mold removal experts address your problem quickly and completely.

5 Reasons Your Business Needs Flood Coverage

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding can occur from storm damage after a severe storm in the St. Charles area.

When it comes to flood insurance for your commercial building in St. Charles, IL, you may think this is an extra policy you don't need. After all, won't your commercial policy cover any water damages done to your property? However, most commercial storm damage restoration professionals will tell you this is coverage you should get for your business.

1. Flooding might not be covered by property insurance. This of course depends on your policy, but most commercial insurance policies don't help pay for damages done by flooding caused by storms. Your policy could cover some sources of water damage, but you may feel better if you equip yourself with a policy that provides more protection.

2. It can help you replace your belongings. If your business equipment is damaged during a storm's deluge, you may be able to get some help replacing the items. This assistance can help you get your company back up and running quickly after a disaster.

3. It can cover you from various sources of flooding. Most flood insurance policies will cover a wide range of standing water sources, including ice dams, overflowing rivers, blocked sewage systems or snow melt. Talk with your insurance agent to find out which ones apply for your coverage.

4. You may be at a high risk for flooding. Some areas have a higher flood risk than others. If your property is in a low-lying area or hurricanes are common in your locale, you may want to strongly consider adding a specialty policy to your coverage.

5. It can help you remove mold caused by standing water. After water permeates your building, you have a risk of accruing secondary damage, such as mold growth. Many policies for floods will help pay for restoration after mold damage is found.

Flood insurance can help protect your property and your business from damages caused by a storm. Without a special policy added to your property insurance, you may have a major gap in your coverage.

For more on St. Charles click here. 

First Aid Tips for Minor Burns

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Serious injury on the job could require urgency in care

If you or your employee has suffered a minor burn after fire damage at your St. Charles, IL, business, you will want to follow some basic first aid steps to ensure that the burn is well taken care of and the victim’s safety is being considered. There are five steps that should alleviate pain and suffering associated with minor burns while keeping the skin as healthy as possible.

1. Remove Jewelry

Tight-fitting items such as rings and watches need to be carefully taken off of the victim so they do not get stuck if the burn swells up. Objects worn around areas such as necks are especially important to remove.

2. Cool Burned Skin

This is a crucial burn first aid tip. Run the burned skin under cool water, making sure that the temperature is not too cold. You can also use a wet compress. Once the pain settles, cease cooling efforts.

3. Apply Aloe Vera

Aloe vera or similar moisturizers can provide burn relief as well as keep the area from getting dry. If a broken blister is found during this process, clean it and apply antibiotic.

4. Loosely Bandage

Make sure to use gauze that is sterile. Bandaging will keep the burn dry and protected.

5. Take Pain Medicine

It can be easy to forget to take care of personal comfort after fire damage, but if a burn victim is still in pain after applying cold water, aloe vera or a bandage, it is really a good idea to look for a pain reliever to alleviate his or her suffering. Over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen or aspirin should help.

Know When to Get Help

Burns that seem more serious or that are causing the victim an alarming amount of complications should be checked out by a medical professional. Most property destruction can be corrected by a fire damage restoration company in St. Charles, IL, but a human’s needs are a little more complicated. If something seems urgent with the burn, trust your instincts and seek help.

For more on St. Charles click here. 

Why You Need a Professional Response to Home Flooding

8/15/2018 (Permalink)

Mitigation procedures after a basement flood

Once your St. Charles, IL, home has been exposed to flood damages, it's important to take steps to avoid secondary damage. This type of damage occurs when the materials of your home suffer because of indirect exposure to water or contamination. Some of the results include the growth of black mold or swelling wood floors. There are several common causes of this type of damage.

• Flooding wasn't cleaned up completely or soon enough.
• Type of dehumidification wasn't adequate for the circumstances.
• Areas of exposure were overlooked during the assessment phase of recovery.

Water Extraction Machines

If your home has been affected by flooding, your wet/dry vacuum, air conditioner, and fans won't have enough impact on the high humidity levels resulting from the presence of so much water. Professional extraction machines quickly remove water without giving it time to evaporate as quickly into the air of your home. The speed of water removal also decreases the chances of excess water getting under the walls and other hidden areas of the home.

Dehumidification Equipment

As water evaporates in the home, it will condense on parts of the home that hadn't initially been affected by the flooding. Porous materials, such as the wall materials, then become ideal for the growth of black mold. Professional-strength high-volume dehumidifiers are necessary to remove as much moisture from the air as possible, as quickly as possible.

Professional-Strength Fans

High-speed fans are also necessary to prevent standing water from seeping into the porous materials of your home and furnishing. Household fans could be used in a pinch, but if you have access to professional-strength fans, they are the best option.

Protect Your Home With Professional Results

As soon as your home has been affected by flooding, protect it, your furnishings, and your family from the effects of secondary damage. Reach out to flood restoration professionals with the equipment and training to prevent black mold, permanently damaged wood, expensive reconstruction, and all of the other damage that could occur. Check with your insurance company concerning flooding policies.

For more on St. Charles click here. 

Tips for Removing Cigarette Smoke Odor From Your Home

7/28/2018 (Permalink)

Cigarette smoke stains and odor in St. Charles home

As a new homeowner in St. Charles, IL, there may be a few things about your new house that you want to upgrade. Some people start thinking about remodeling and renovation. However, if your home smells of cigarettes, your first priority will likely be home deodorization. Working with a smoke and odor removal company can help you have a fresher smelling space. You can also keep these tips in mind as you go through this vigorous cleaning process.

• Wash Fabrics: Any curtains, rugs and carpets left behind need to be thoroughly washed. Fabrics can soak up particles from cigarette smoke. These particles make the odor linger longer. The type of fabric will dictate whether you use a dry-clean or wet method.

• Store Content: Once your belongings have been cleaned, you need to make sure they remain odor free. Putting your clothing, furniture, curtains and other cleaned items into a storage unit can help you ensure they do not get smelly again.

• Clean Walls: Even the walls and ceiling in your new home need to be properly cleaned for a thorough home deodorization. If these surfaces are left untreated, you may notice that the aroma still permeates your house. The professional cleaning crew will likely use a special solvent and equipment to clean the permanent fixtures in your house.

• Incorporate Filters: Commercial-grade air filters can help remove odor particles from your space. While air filtration may not remove the odor on its own, it is an important part of the overall cleaning process.

• Use Machines: Another machine commonly used to help remove cigarette smoke odor is an ozone machine. This device emits ozone molecules that act similarly to the smoke molecules. The new particles attach themselves to the surfaces in your home to start the deodorization process.

Home deodorization may not happen overnight. Sometimes it takes trial and error to fully remove bad smells from your house. Cleaning every surface and item in the building helps make sure you completely remove the foul aroma.

For more on St. Charles click here. 

How FEMA Can Help After a Storm

7/28/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Damage in St. Charles Illinois

A hurricane or storm can leave terrible damage to homes in St. Charles, IL, but there is help. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can help homeowners get back on their feet following storm damage. Below is an idea of what to expect in the event of a hurricane in your area.

• Registration

The first step in the process is to make sure you are registered with FEMA. The easiest way to register is to go online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or to download the app. You can also call 800-621-3362 to get started over the phone or visit a Disaster Recovery Center in the event that you do not have internet access.

Be prepared with your Social Security number, address, income, insurance information and bank routing numbers, in addition to a detailed description of the damage to your home. Some homeowners have to submit a Small Business Administration loan application before their eligibility is determined. You’ll be given a nine-digit registration number to use for all future correspondence.

• Inspection

After registration is complete, the agency will contact you to set up a home inspection. They will assess any flood damage to the home during this time. The inspector should display his or her identification when he or she arrives. Homeowners or renters will be required to prove occupancy or ownership at this time, so be prepared with a payment receipt or rental agreement and government identification.

• Follow-Up

Following the inspection, registrants will receive notification about their applications via mail, email or text. Be sure to read everything because often times, people have to submit further documentation. If you aren’t sure what the letter means, you can contact the helpline at 800-621-3362.

No one wants to deal with flooding or the devastation of a hurricane, but fortunately, there is help. FEMA exists to help homeowners through this situation and get back to their normal lives as quickly as possible.

For more on St. Charles click here. 

Timely Intervention: The Key to Mold Prevention

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Air Duct cleaning in St. Charles

If your commercial building in St. Charles, IL , is prone to mold problems, it is likely that you need to adjust your prevention measures. Early detection of the problem and remediation by certified specialists is key to taking care of it. If you want to prevent the problem in the first place, however, engaging in regular maintenance such as carpet cleaning, air purifying and HVAC servicing is helpful.

Early Detection

Water leaks can occur anywhere there is a source, even if you think the source is secure. A building may have cracks, allowing water to seep in from outside. Well-sealed buildings can also experience mold growth, though, as poor ventilation can cause condensation to form when moisture in the air cannot escape. There are several other ways water damage that lead to mold issues can occur:

• Frozen or broken pipes
• Loose supply lines
• Ice dams causing roof leaks
• Poorly planned landscaping or gutter systems
• Overflowing toilets or sinks

No matter what causes the issue, it must be resolved so that mold doesn't grow. If mold spores find a moisture source, you will likely experience a problem.

Preventative Measures

Regular maintenance of your commercial property can help prevent mold problems Routine carpet cleaning, particularly in high traffic areas where excess moisture may occur, is necessary. Set up a regular schedule for HVAC testing and cleaning to make sure that your air ducts don't have mold growth. Consider using HEPA air purifiers with activated carbon filters that draw mold spores out of the air to destroy them. Finally, something as simple as placing door mats at each entrance so that employees can leave the spores from outside that have hitched a ride indoors on their shoes at the door.

Air duct and carpet cleaning should be a part of your regular building maintenance plan. By keeping on top of your maintenance schedule and taking care of water leaks when they occur, you are more likely to prevent mold issues.

For more on St. Charles click here. 

What Is Category 1 Commercial Water Damage?

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Broken Pipe in St. Charles IL

When your business has water damage in St. Charles, IL, it is understandable to be concerned for your livelihood. However, consider yourself lucky if the type of damage is a Category 1. There are three categories of water damage, with this being the only one resulting from clean water. When this type of loss occurs, it is important to understand why the damage occurred and how to return your commercial site to preloss condition.

What Causes Category 1 Water Damage?

Clean water damage originates from a sanitary source and, unless left to sit, does not endanger you if you come into contact with it. There are a number of places in your business that this water can come from:

• Cracked supply line
• Broken pipe
• Damaged sprinkler system
• Malfunctioned water heater
• Overflowed tub or sink

What Is the Process for Cleaning up Category 1 Damage?

Regardless of the source, the cleanup course for Category 1 damage is the easiest and quickest of the types due to the fact that the damage occurred from untainted water. If you immediately contact a water restoration company, you will not need to worry about the water posing a risk to your health. There are important steps, however, that the experts will follow to help you return your business to its prior condition:

• Immediate, emergency removal of excess water from the site using submersible pumps and industrial strength vacuums, both portable and/or truck mounted
• Inspection and removal, if necessary, of carpets and carpet pads
• Use of industrial grade dehumidifiers and air movers to efficiently and completely dry the space

Whether you experience commercial loss from a supply line or broken pipe in St. Charles, IL, cleanup from Category 1 damage is the least intrusive of the three types because it results from clean water. Although this justifiably will cause some stress and loss of operating time, when the problem is dealt with immediately and correctly your business will be functional again soon.

For more on St. Charles click here. 

4 Things You Need To Know About Partial Loss

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Partial Loss to a house fire

Fires don't always ravage commercial buildings in St. Charles, IL. Sometimes they cause small amounts of smoke damage rather than burn the structure to the ground. This type of fire loss is often called a partial loss. Even though the damage isn't as severe, your restoration may still be a long process. Here are four things you need to know about partial loss:

1. Recovery may be on the back burner. If other commercial buildings were affected in the fire, your fire restoration may not get scheduled right away. The more damaged structures may get priority over your partial loss.

2. There could be more damage than expected. You have to get an inspection done of your property even if you don't think there's much damage. The inspection will look at your roof, siding, windows, interior walls, plumbing and structure. You may find hidden points of damage in ducts and behind walls. You may have to fix air quality and mold, water, smoke and ash damage too.

3. You may have to replace undamaged items. If part of your roof or siding has been damaged, you may need to replace a larger portion of the materials than expected. To get your building back to a uniform appearance, you may need to redo the entire roof after a partial fire loss.

4. You need to work with a professional. Even though there isn't that much damage to repair, you still need to work with a fire mitigation team familiar with this type of repair work. If you fail to work with a true professional, your cleaning and repair may not be done as well as it should be.

No matter how much fire loss you have after flames break out in your commercial building, you need to take on a complete restoration. Sometimes even the seemingly easy repairs can take more work and time than initially expected.

For more on St. Charles click here. 

Maintain Your Swamp Cooler To Prevent Mold

5/13/2018 (Permalink)

In hot, dry climates, swamp coolers, or evaporative coolers, are a great way to cool your home. As the water in the cooler evaporates, it absorbs heat from the air and adds water vapor. However, in St. Charles, IL, where humidity sometimes rises, it’s important to pay attention to the barometer. If humidity is too high, the water won’t evaporate and mold growth can develop in your swamp cooler. If this happens, it’s critical you clean the mold out of your evaporative cooler before running it again.

To avoid mold problems from a dirty or leaking swamp cooler, it’s important to do regular maintenance on your unit. Follow these basic guidelines to keep your cooler working and prevent mold.

1. Check Water Levels Regularly

Check the water level in your evaporative cooler regularly. If the water level is too low, your cooler may not be able to cool the air effectively. If the water level is too high, a leaking swamp cooler can become a source of chronic moisture in your home, creating the perfect conditions for mold to grow.

2. Keep the Exterior Clean

You should wipe down the outside of your swamp cooler every couple of weeks. A surface build-up of dust or grime can interfere with its cooling abilities. Wiping it down can also clean off any pollen spores that may have settled there, waiting for the right conditions to grow.

3. Clean the Water Tank

It’s a good idea to clean out the water tank periodically. This removes any build up of sediment, lime or organic material that might serve as a breeding ground for mold.

4. Change the Cooling Pads

The cooling pads are one of the first places mold can grow. Inspect them regularly and replace them if they’re cracked or dirty. If you notice a musty smell coming from your swamp cooler, you may have mold. Changing the pads and cleaning the tank should help.

While swamp coolers can be an economical cooling option in St. Charles, IL, some care is needed. Don’t run your cooler on humid days and perform regular maintenance to prevent a dirty or leaking cooler from causing mold to grow.

Click here for more on St. Charles.

How To Recover After A House Fire

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

St. Charles Home Health: How to Recover after a House Fire

A house fire is one of the greatest fears for every homeowner and parent. To protect your family and your home from a fire, smoke detectors must be properly installed and tested monthly, fire extinguishers need to be placed in strategically throughout the home, and your evacuation drills need to be practiced regularly. These safety precautions can help to prevent house fires, minimize fire damage, and protect your family. ] However, if your home is damaged by fire, smoke, and water damage, SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia can help you recover quickly.

After a fire, once you and your family is safe, the first step is to call your insurance company. The sooner you make contact and start the claims process, the quicker you and your family can resume your lives. Most insurance companies have a 24-hour emergency claims numbers; however, if you are unable to reach a live agent, leave a clear message explaining the damage, and provide a phone number where you can be reached. SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia can work with you to file a claim allowing the recovery and restoration process to begin immediately.

 
Once the fire department has deemed your home is safe to enter, proceed with due caution and wear proper protective clothing and footwear. In your initial walk through, take photos and videos of the damage. If you have an inventory of items in your home, you can begin the process of checking off items that have been affected by fire or smoke damage. Meticulously cataloging each damaged item helps hasten the insurance claims process allowing you and your family to get your life back to business as usual. The SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia team is highly trained to assess the damage to the contents of your home, and its structure, and can assist you throughout the inventory process.  We can quickly determine if items are a total loss, or whether they can be restored to pre-fire condition. Even items that may seem hopelessly lost to the devastating effects of the fire damage may be recovered and restored by a professional fire restoration team. 

The final steps are cleaning and rebuilding, and yes, SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia is here to help with you throughout these steps as well. Cleaning up after a fire can be daunting, and even dangerous. Weakened structure, standing water, charred household items, damaged electrical appliances, and soot-covered keepsakes make it difficult to know where to begin. And, don’t discount the emotional side effects that a fire in your home will have on you, and your family. Allow your locally owned SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia to assist you throughout the clean-up and rebuilding process, and you focus on attending to you and your family’s immediate needs and healing.

Seeking support throughout the fire recovery process is important too. Reaching out to friends, extended family, your worship community, and professional counseling are essential to the house fire recovery process. In fact, while fire damage restoration can take a few weeks to a few months with SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia, the emotional recovery may take several more months. This is particularly true for the children in the household; be sure to consult a grief counselor if your children begin to show signs of fear and anxiety.

In the days and weeks after a house fire it may seem life may never return to normal. However, it most certainly can and your local SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia is here to help you every step of the way.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com/.

St. Charles Fire Services

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Home fire in Geneva, IL

St. Charles Fire Damage Services for Your Home

While we hope you will never need our services, please know that SERVPRO of St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia stands at the ready in the event of an emergency. We specialize in fire damage restoration. From the moment the smoke clears, our professional and efficient specialists work diligently to clean and restore your home. Providing fire damage service in St. Charles, Illinois as well as Geneva, Batavia and the surrounding areas - SERVPRO is a name you can trust.

Here is a brief list of the services we provide:

1. Water Removal: After a fire, the damage to a property is not limited to just charred walls and furniture; the water damage is typically as extensive. Using a variety of methods, from water pumps to commercial fans to dehumidifiers, SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia works to eliminate this excess water and moisture from your property, furniture, carpet, and other items. This helps to prevent the development of mold and mildew, as well as protects the integrity of the structure. This is why it is in your best interest to contact SERVPRO, your local experts in fire damage restoration and water damage restoration.
2. Smoke Removal: Stains from the soot generated by the fire and the smell of smoke lingers in furniture, clothing, carpet, drapes, and drywall if the smoke damage is not professionally remediated. SERVPRO’s specialists can efficiently remove the aftermath of fire damage allowing you to return the normalcy of life as quickly as possible.
3. Determine Salvageable Possessions:  When fire damage is extensive, it can seem as though all of your possessions, from couches to clothing to electronics must be thrown out.  That is a costly mistake that SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia can help you avoid. Our fire damage salvaging experts can assist you item by item to determine whether a particular piece is salvageable or needs to be replaced.  With your approval, salvageable items are taken to our specialized facility where we begin the delicate process of restoring the items you desire.

Getting life back to normal quickly and efficiently by restoring and repairing your fire, water, and smoke damaged home is what the technicians at SERVPRO do best.  When you are looking for experts to assist with fire damage restoration and repair near Batavia, IL, make the right call to SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia at (630) 377-7062. Don’t delay; we are available 24x7 for just such emergencies. The sooner we begin the process, the sooner you and your family will be enjoying your home once again.

4 Mold Prevention Tips for Restaurants

4/26/2018 (Permalink)

Take these steps in preventing Mold in your St Charles restaurant

Restaurants are prime real estate for mold. Food service environments have plenty of organic materials and moisture in play, both of which are necessary for mold growth. If you want to prevent mold contamination in your restaurant, you should follow these four steps under ordinary conditions and after any water damage.

1. Take measures to eliminate excess moisture. Mold must have moisture in order to grow. If you are aware of places where water tends to pool up, take steps to prevent it from doing so or to clean up spills or leaks as soon as possible.

2. Install proper ventilation throughout the restaurant. In addition to sufficient hood venting for your hot line, you should also have a functional HVAC system. Ventilation can help to filter food particles out of the air and prevent mold from forming. If a severe leak occurs, use fans and a dehumidifier to reduce high humidity and make the area less prone to mold.

3. Keep surfaces clean and identify areas at risk for mold growth. Mold may flourish in places that you don't regularly look. Make a special mold checklist that involves cleaning areas that may be at risk for developing mold undetected, such as the underside of sinks or the back sides of coolers or other refrigerated preparation equipment. Employees should follow this protocol on a regular basis.

4. Cycle out old stock to prevent mold in food storage areas. You should try to avoid having moldy food in your walk-in cooler or other food storage areas. Mold can cross-contaminate food items that are not properly sealed and stored.

These four steps are intended to help you prevent mold from becoming a problem in your restaurant in St. Charles, IL. If you follow all of these steps and still encounter mold growth, you should contact a service that specializes in commercial mold remediation.

Click here for more on St. Charles.

Understanding Category 2 Water Damage

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Broken pipes can cause severe damage in your commercial building

If you don’t take care of a water pipe repair, you could end up with a flooded business. To make sure your building is restored to its undamaged state as quickly as possible, it’s important to contact a water mitigation expert in Geneva, IL. The first thing an expert will do is assess the flood water to determine whether the water is category 1, 2 or 3.

Flood water is categorized based on how contaminated it is with substances that pose a threat to human and animal health. Category 1 is clean water that’s drinkable at its source – for example, from a broken pipe. Category 3 water is highly contaminated with bacteria, microorganisms and viruses that can cause serious illness. Sewage from a backed-up toilet is category 3 water. So what is category 2? Sometimes called grey water, category 2 refers to water that contains some contaminants that may cause illness if swallowed.

Where Does Category 2 Water Come From?

Category 2 water can be classified as such right from the source, or it can be a result of category 1 water from a broken water pipe repair that has come into contact with contaminating materials. Some potential sources for grey water include the following:

• Overflow from washing machines
• Overflow from dishwashers
• Toilet overflow containing only urine
• Water flushed from sink drains
• Stagnant category 1 water
• Category 1 water that has come in contact with building materials

If you need to do a water pipe repair but put it off and ended up with a flood on the second floor, the water on the second floor would probably be classified as category 1. If that water seeps through the floor and leaks through the ceiling of the floor below, the water on the lower floor will probably be classified as category 2. An experienced water damage mitigation expert in Geneva, IL, can help you deal with both.

Click here for more on Geneva.

Mold Won’t Go Away on Its Own – You Need To Give It a Helping Hand

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Ceiling Damage in Geneva Home

Black mold has staying power, and even after you’ve dried out the problem area and removed any visible signs of mold growth, you still have a problem. Mold cleanup entails much more than drying out the mold; it also involves these tasks:

• Removing spores
• Replacing affected materials with new ones
• Implementing preventative measures

If you recently discovered mold in your home, the problem may be much more extensive than you initially thought. Once you have dealt with the initial source of the problem, reach out to your [City, State], mold remediation team for help eradicating the problem for good.

Professional Mold Remediation Is Key

If the moisture problem that caused the mold growth was allowed to continue for more than 24 to 48 hours (which is often the case with roof leaks, leaking pipes, and sump pump failures), chances are that the black mold spores have already spread beyond the original site. If this is the case, it would be in your best interests to reach out to a professional mold cleanup team.

The professionals have the technology necessary to identify affected areas without busting down walls, and the equipment on hand to remediate mold in an as uninvasive way as possible. Many homeowners fail to remove all present mold spores because they limit cleanup efforts the site of the moisture problem. The professionals, however, perform remediation efforts at all sites where their detection meters indicate growth.

Professional remediation often includes the following efforts:

• Containing the problem area so that further contamination is not possible
• Drying out and airing out the contained area
• Inspecting and cleaning out HVAC systems
• Removing mold and mold infested contents
• Cleaning materials and belongings
• Restoring your home to pre-mold condition

If you discover black mold in your home, it’s important to note that DIY cleanup efforts rarely work. If you want to eliminate the problem for good and ensure it doesn’t return, you need to work with a professional Geneva, IL, mold cleanup team.

Visit us at http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information. 

Understanding What Happens to Building Materials When They Get Wet

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

Home suffering from Water Loss

Water damage from any type of water deluge can be devastating to a home’s structure and not just to the contents within it. From swelling wood to supply line damage, the damage that an influx of water has the potential to cause can be costly and extensive. If you want to know what to expect from a burst pipe, flood or any other type of water issue, keep reading. Some common issues that stem result from sitting water include:

• Weak drywall
• Swollen wood
• Ineffective insulation
• Bad electrical
• Contaminated furniture and flooring

Common Structural Issues From Water Damage

Though a burst pipe is unlikely to cause the foundational damage a flood can cause, it can still wreak havoc on your home. If your home has been subject to several water deluges in the past, you may notice a few subtle signs.

For one, your drywall may become weak and begin to crumble, get soft or grow mold. If this happens, your drywall needs to be replaced and the structure of your home dried out, otherwise the swelling wood will continue to swell and cause additional damage. If your walls are plaster, you may be able to get away with simply drying the material.

Another sign you may notice is that your home doesn’t retain heat or cool air as well as it once did. Water damaged insulation is no longer effective and should be replaced when the drywall is replaced.

Depending on how extensive the damage was, you may notice that some outlets or switches don’t work as well. If there are electrical lines behind the damaged areas of drywall, the water surge may be the cause.

Finally, you may notice that your furniture and flooring take on a musty, moldy smell. If this happens, chances are because your furniture and carpet are contaminated, in which case, you would be better off replacing those items.

From swelling wood to bad electrical, a burst pipe can wreak havoc. If you’ve recently experienced a water surge, contact your St. Charles, IL, water restoration team for immediate and effective water pipe repair and restoration efforts.

Visit us at http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information. 

A Quick Guide to Black Water and How To Handle It

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Loss

Whether because of a big storm in St. Charles, IL, or a backed-up toilet, water damage on your business property means shutting the door to take care of cleanup, and shut doors mean lost business. The key to restoring your property to working order as quickly as possible is knowing what black water is and how to deal with it.

What Is Black Water?

Simply put, black water is wastewater that is full of sewage or other biological materials that are dangerous to humans. The water is highly contaminated and should be avoided as much as possible. This water can enter your business property in several ways.

- Backed-up toilet
- Backed-up sink or shower drains
- Burst pipes
- Flood waters after a storm

What Do You Do if You Find Contaminated Water in Your Building?

If you find sewage water inside your property, don't try to remove it by yourself. The water may be dangerous. Instead, hire a professional company that is experienced in removing toxic sewage water from buildings. The company will have the proper equipment, knowledge and experience to remove the water and help you start the process of drying your business out.

What Are Some Things To Keep in Mind?

When dealing with contaminated flood water, you must keep some things in mind. While you don't need to throw out everything, many items will need to be replaced. Toss anything that is wooden, cardboard, paper or porous plastic. These items can absorb the water and the bacteria and pose a hazard. This is especially important if you own a food service company or a similar type of business. Metal and glass items might be salvageable but will require a thorough sanitation process first.

You shouldn't deal with water damage from contaminated water alone. Calling professionals ensures you get back on track and reopen your company's doors as soon as possible.

Visit us at http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information. 

3 Ways to Prevent Mold From Taking Over Your Rental

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Owning a rental home in Geneva, IL is a great source of side income, but it requires the same amount of maintenance and care as the home you live in yourself. This ownership means taking precautions with mold prevention, learning what to do in the event of mold growth and how to properly handle any water damage that may arise from moisture problems or environmental hazards. Read on to learn three ways to prevent mold from taking over your rental property.

1. Keep the heating system low, but try not to completely turn it off. Large heating bills aside, leaving your heating system on, even at a lower temperature, can help ward off the possibility of mold reproduction. If water leaks or excessive moisture are present in the home, high heat can increase the humidity in these areas, which is the perfect environment for mold to grow in. However, turning off the system completely can also bring about temperature fluctuations, which would produce condensation or invite added dampness to the infested space. Overall, leaving the heat on but at a lower temperature is the happy medium you want for mold prevention.

2. If mold is apparent due to a moisture issue, turn off the water immediately. Growing mold relies on water as one of its main sources of survival. Shutting off the water supply inhibits mold from spreading and keeps greater damage from occurring in the home due to leaky windows or plumbing.

3. Ensure the home has proper ventilation. Make sure that areas of high humidity like the kitchens and bathrooms have exhaust fans. Check to see that any laundry facilities also vent outdoors properly and keep dehumidifiers in the home if moisture is a continuous problem.

When your rental home in Geneva, IL experiences any type of mold growth or water damage, call professionals for further advice on how to proceed with remediation. Once the cleanup is addressed and completed, follow these three methods for mold prevention to avoid any moisture problems in the future. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold.

If Your Building Catches Fire, Will You Be Prepared?

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Whether you own a multi-million-dollar corporation that operates out of a large commercial building or run a small, family-owned business that works out of a one-room retail store, it is important that you have a fire contingency plan in place. Your emergency plan should be well thought out; otherwise, you risk disorganization, chaos, confusion and injury in the event of a real emergency. To minimize damages and increase emergency response time, your evacuation plan should include the following:

• Minimum requirements
• An evacuation route
• A safe zone
• Emergency contacts

Minimum Requirements

Your contingency plan should, at the very least, include an action plan that is specific to your industry and worksite. An insurance agency can help you assess your risks, and the local fire department or a Geneva, IL fire damage control team can help you draft a plan that addresses both those exposures and any obstacles posed by your building itself (e.g., layout, structural features, etc.).

Plan an Evacuation Route

Your evacuation plan should include a map of the best evacuation routes for each area of the building. In addition to showing occupants how to safely exit the building, your plan should also give clear directions to the nearest safety zone.

Establish a Safe Zone

Once all of your building’s occupants have made it out safely, they’ll need somewhere to go. Pick one location per emergency route where all occupants can gather. You will want to get a headcount and assess damages, which can be difficult to do if everyone is scattered across town.

Include Emergency Contacts

Your evacuation plan should include a list of emergency contacts, such as the local fire department, the Geneva, IL fire restoration team, local medical centers, a burn unit and an organization that deals in chemicals and hazardous waste.

Every business’s contingency plan is going to be different, but every business should have one. For more tips on what makes a strong evacuation plan, visit the United States Department of Labor. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on commercial fire damage.

Restoring Your Home After a Fire

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Having your home and belongings damaged by a fire can be devastating for everyone involved. However, by getting content cleaning and fire restoration services on the job right away and investing in a few things like dry-cleaning and content storage, you can help to bring your home back to its former glory. There are a few steps you should follow to get everything on track for recovery:

• Getting in touch with your insurance company
• Locating a reliable fire and smoke cleanup crew
• Finding a storage space for undamaged belongings

Contacting Insurance

After dealing with emergency services, your insurance company should be the first call you make. Your insurance professionals can help estimate how much your repairs will cost and direct you to fire cleaning professionals in St. Charles, IL who are covered by your homeowners insurance. This can help you get the financial support you need during the recovery process.

Choosing Your Crew

While your insurance company will likely suggest and endorse a number of cleanup crews, it’s ultimately up to you to decide who you want to trust with your home content cleaning. Do your research and find a company that has a reputation for getting the job done right and for following up on their results after you’re settled back into your home.

Finding Storage Solutions

During your cleanup process, crews are likely to use machines and chemicals that rid your home of smoke smells. It’s always a good idea to move undamaged belongings into a storage unit until your home is completely repaired to protect them from dust, debris, and even water from damaged roofing or pipes. Dry-cleaning may be appropriate for some minimally damaged belongings.

Between dry-cleaning, working with insurance agents and all of the other steps of content cleaning after a fire, the home recovery process can be a long one. However, it’s well worth it to feel safe and secure in your own home again.


Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on fire damage.

How to Keep Pipes Safe During a Freeze

1/31/2018 (Permalink)

Winter can be a beautiful and festive time of year. However, if you don’t adequately prepare your home, the freezing temperatures of winter can cause frozen pipes that burst and flood your house. If that happens, you could end up needing professional restoration services and water line repair. Here are some of the most vulnerable pipes:

• Outdoor pipes for pools and sprinklers
• Units in basements
• Pipes in attics and garages
• Units under kitchen and bathroom cabinets

Avoid frozen pipes in these areas with a few steps.

Drain Outdoor Lines

If you have a swimming pool or a sprinkler system, follow the manufacturer’s directions for draining the supply lines before a freeze comes to St. Charles, IL. You may be tempted to use antifreeze in these outdoor areas, but such chemicals can be harmful to the environment, your yard, your animals, and children.

Insulate Indoor Areas

Pipes in basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces freeze because these areas aren’t always well insulated. While the rest of your house may be comfortable when the weather is cold, these areas can see below freezing temperatures. Adding insulation in these parts of your home can keep the temperatures safer for pipes.

Protect Cabinets

The pipes in your kitchen and bathroom cabinets can get too cold because your heater doesn’t affect the air around them. You can use heat tape or a similar product to keep these pipes safe from freezing temperatures. You may also consider a pipe sleeve. If a sudden freeze is coming and you don’t have these products, you can wrap the pipes in a newspaper and keep the cabinets open.

If you do end up with frozen pipes that burst, be sure to turn off the water supply to the pipe and secure the area. Then, you can call a professional restoration company to fix the damage. Doing so can help keep mold and other damage at bay. Visit  http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on water damage.

Getting Rid of Bad Odors After a Flood

1/31/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding in St. Charles, IL can have a lot of consequences for your home, not the least of which is the bad odor left behind even after the water is gone. Prevent your property from being flooded with unpleasant smells, or, if they are already there, get rid of them by taking a few simple restoration measures.

Preventing Odors

Odors after flooding can be the result of mold growth. Mold can easily grow during and after flooding because of the moist conditions created by the water. Mold usually creates a stale or musty odor that can be quite unpleasant. One of the best ways to prevent this can be to stop mold from ever growing in the first place. Since fungus grows fast, as quickly as during the first 24 hours after flooding, you’ll need to act fast to keep it away. A restoration service can help you accomplish this by doing the following:

• Tearing out damaged drywall and other wet materials
• Dehumidifying the home
• Using bleach or other products to kill any remaining mold spores

While you may not be thrilled at the thought of replacing carpets and other materials, it can be worth it in the long run to avoid bad smells and worsening damage.

Removing Odors

If your home already suffers from nasty odors, one way to fix it can be to disinfect the areas where you believe the smell is coming from. Even if mold growth is not immediately visible in these areas, microorganisms left behind from the flood water may still be present.

Restoration services can be useful in these situations as well and can help you make sure the disinfection process is completed safely and thoroughly. Again, while some items can be deodorized and salvaged, others, especially porous materials, may have to be replaced.

By preventing mold growth, you can avoid the unpleasant odors left behind after flooding. Stop smells before they happen by replacing damaged materials and drying out wet areas as quickly as possible.
 Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on storm damage.

4 Common Causes of Pipe Bursts

1/31/2018 (Permalink)

Burst pipes can wreak havoc on any commercial property in St. Charles, IL. Whether pipe burst cleanup is required in the kitchen or basement, you need to take prompt action to save as much of your property as possible. It is always best to prevent supply line leaking rather than wait until something catastrophic happens, so you should be aware of what typically causes this type of flooding.

1. Corrosion

One cause of bursting pipes is simply the pipes becoming too old to function adequately. Many buildings made prior to 1970 have steel pipes, which are prone to early corrosion. In the event corrosion necessitates water cleanup, then you will probably want to undergo a total piping replacement throughout the building before you need a pipe burst cleanup.

2. Freezing

This problem is prevalent throughout the colder months of the year. Before winter comes to your town, you should take preventive action to prevent the water inside the pipes from freezing and cracking the surface. You can apply insulation around the pipes to keep them at an optimal temperature. It is also a good idea to run the heater inside your building as often as possible to keep warm air circulating.

3. Tree Roots

Tree roots grow in an array of directions. They may end up damaging pipes located underneath your building, causing a backup. Once a tree root finds a pipe filled with water, it will continue to grow throughout the pipe because it provides a source of nutrients.

4. Collapsing

Environmental changes can add extra pressure on top of a pipe, causing it to burst and collapse. For example, new construction in your community can affect the soil. The increased weight causes the pipes to collapse and burst. Regardless of the reason, you do not want to wait when it comes to pipe burst cleanup. Find professionals in St. Charles, IL, who will be able to visit your property promptly to clean up the water. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on commercial water damage.

Steps Toward Fire Damage Restoration

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

Apartment Complex Fire

Smart Steps Toward St.Charles Fire Damage Restoration 

Fire damage to your St. Charles Illinois home or office is devastating, but you should not wait to take steps towards restoring your property. Thanks to your fire alarm system, everyone got out of the building, but now you have to deal with your burned and heat-damaged possessions. When the flames are gone, soot and smoke can continue to cause fire damage. This is why it is important to start restoration as soon as you can.

The First Step To Fire Restoration

You should make notes about what items are ruined or damaged and take photographs too. You’ll be contacting your insurance company and a restoration contractor, so you want to be sure about your circumstances. Misunderstandings are common, but if you have photos and notes, you’ll be in a better position to know the extent of the St. Charles Fire IL, and what needs to be restored or replaced. This should be done within hours after the fire is extinguished.

Once you have a clear picture of the damage, call your insurance company. Hopefully, you can do this the next day. It is important to call them as soon as possible, so they will send an insurance adjustor to your home or office quickly. 

Call SERVPRO St.Charles/Geneva/batavia Reputable Fire Damage Restoration Experts

When searching for a local cleaning and restoration contractor, make sure they are Institution of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified. These professionals have been trained in the latest restoration technology and have health and safety certification. They will have experience in a wide range of fire damage St. Charles IL, restoration projects. You should also ask for proof or the proper licenses and insurance. 

You may be able to locate a restoration contractor who also does reconstruction. This will save you a lot of time and money. They will first board up your home or office so vandals or thieves cannot enter. They will also work directly with your insurance company to create a restoration plan that will return your property to its pre-fire condition. They’ll inform your adjustor about the items that can be cleaned and restored and the ones that need to be replaced. Your restoration contractor should also be able to safely store some of your possessions during recovery. 

Fire damage includes much more than burning. There can also be extensive water damage St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia when the fire department puts out the fire as well as smoke damage that can go into every part of the house including places that were untouched by the fire.

Let SERVPRO the Professionals Handle It

You may be tempted to get the restoration process started by cleaning things yourself. This is not recommended because it may only make it worse. Some things to avoid are:

• Wiping walls, ceiling tiles or any absorbent material
• Reusing carpet and upholstery that have smoke damage
• Using any food item including canned goods that were exposed to heat and smoke
• Turning on your computer, TV, or electrical appliances before they have been professionally cleaned

The restoration process after a fire can be stressful, but if you have a certified professional handling your insurance company and the construction, there is a good chance you’ll have a full recovery.

What is the water restoration process?

12/12/2017 (Permalink)

Water Restoration Process

Once you remove water from your flooded business, start the restoration process. Again, you need a restoration company to do the work. The company will begin by checking the severity of the pipe break, supply line break or any other plumbing issue that might have brought water in your business. After that, they will kick-start the water cleanup process by drying up all the affected areas. There are special drying tools specifically designed to do the job very quickly. Drying the water in your business will prevent the growth of molds in the flooded area.

Once the water in your business is completely dry, the restoration experts will check the walls and other parts of the flooded facility to see the extent of the damage. They will also check to see the extent of pipe break or supply line break and decide if there is need for replacement. They may use their drying tools to cleanup if they find the walls and other areas to be wet.

The water cleanup process will finally end with foundation repair. In some severe cases, the flood water in the business may seep through the floor down to the foundation. The restoration experts will check to see how far the water in the business has gone. In most flood damage cases, the water from supply line break and pipe break do not reach the foundation.

Mitigation Measures

There is a little you can do to prevent flood damage caused by natural disasters such as storms and earthquakes. However, there are a lot of mitigation measures you can employ to reduce the likelihood of flood damage occurring in your business. One mitigation measure involves frequently checking for any incidences of pipe break and supply line break to prevent water damage. There are also other mitigation measures you can employ. You can remove debris from the gutters, seal cracks in the foundation, install window well covers and seal cracks around the house.

Removing debris from the gutter or installing window well covers by yourself is very dangerous. You need a restoration expert to handle these tasks.

Commercial Mold Cleanup

12/12/2017 (Permalink)

Mold and Mildew Remediation and Mitigation

There are steps that can aid in mitigation of the mold in your building. Mold and mildew mitigation is ensured by treating the colony directly and removing infected objects. The severity of the infestation determines what the necessary steps are for complete mitigation and deodorization.

Treatment is also available for commercial mold damage. Often, commercial mold damage is extensive. In some commercial mold damage cases, large furniture, carpet, or drywall may be removed, such as when there is mold growth behind the wall. Mold growth behind the walls may be caused by excess moisture. A professional is required in order to properly clean and disinfect the area of the mold growth behind the wall, as well as to perform the necessary repairs and deodorization.

When possible, items will be cleaned and disinfected before undergoing deodorization and being returned to the treated area. A professional mold remediation and restoration company will make sure that there is no mildew or mold in your facility, smelly odor, dry rot, black mold or growth behind the walls.

Preventing Mold Damage

Mildew and mold damage are natural occurrences and are not possible to eliminate entirely, but you can take precautions to prevent their growth in your business.

Why Is the Restoration Technician Cutting into the Building’s Walls?

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

Why Is the Restoration Technician Cutting into the Building’s Walls?

Few things can be more worrisome or stressful for a small business owner than a flood in a commercial building. As you watch waters rise, you see hard work and profits go down the drain. Following a flood in St. Charles, Illinois you’ll likely want to work with a restoration company to return your warehouse, office, or other commercial building to its pre-flood state. You probably don’t, however, want to further harm the property. As such, you may wonder why the flooding restorer is cutting into your commercial building’s walls.

Understanding the Flood Cut

During a flood, water can get virtually everywhere inside a commercial building. Because of this, restorers often must tear out drywall to allow water to drain. These cuts increase airflow, promoting drying of wall studs. Technicians generally make flood cuts 12 inches above the flood line. After they do so, they remove damaged drywall and insulation.

Preserving Existing Walls

No two floods or commercial buildings are identical, so restoration technicians usually must make a unique plan to deal with flood waters. Sometimes, restorers can avoid making flood cuts. If your company’s flooding did not involve contaminated water, technicians may try to preserve drywall instead of remove it. Also, if walls don’t have insulation, professionals may be able to successfully restore the property without cutting into the walls.

Taking Additional Steps

Following a commercial flood, restorers must take additional steps to ensure your business property retains its value. Generally, they do the following:

• Completely remove damaged flooring and walls
• Target dangerous mildew and mold
• Clean heating and air conditioning systems

Flooding can destroy any business in St. Charles, Illinois Fortunately, by collaborating with a qualified restoration company, you can likely restore your business to its pre-flood condition. While it may be difficult to watch restorers cut into your building’s walls, flood cuts may be the best way to save your company from long-term damage. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on water damage.

The Best Ways To Prepare For a Flood

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

The Best Ways To Prepare For a Flood

Most people who are involved in a flooding event are not prepared for it. Catastrophic storms or the breaking of a major plumbing line in a commercial building will usually happen quickly, often without much advance notice. The better a company is prepared for a major water event, the more likely it will escape from it without major damage. Here are four tips that could help minimize flood damage in St. Charles, Illinois.

Keep Gutters and Storm Drains Clean. This is a small and easy step to take, but it can have large implications. If the gutters or storm drains are clogged, they won’t be able to do their job, which is to carry water away quickly. A company should always make sure it has an annual or semi-annual cleaning of the gutters to facilitate the draining of water from the building.

Have a Plan. When it comes to potential storm damage, a well-prepared company will know who to call in the case of a flooding emergency. This is especially important because the quicker a water damage restoration company can respond to an emergency, the better it can prevent costly repairs. Knowing what company to call and having that contact number in a handy space will save precious time.

Protect Valuable Items. If a company owns any especially valuable items, such as rare art or family or company heirlooms, it would be a good idea to have those assets in a place where they would not be susceptible to water damage.

Invest in Training. Training employees on how to act during and after floods can pay big dividends. Employees should know what the most important steps are before the experts arrive on scene, such as operating sump pumps and vacuums.

Flooding is not something that most companies are prepared for. However, keeping these four tips in mind can reduce the damage to a commercial building. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on flood damage.

Deodorizing After a Flood

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

Deodorizing After a Flood

Mold growth and sewage loss after a flood in St. Charles, Illinois is a significant danger, and one that generally can’t be avoided. Once the flood water goes down, you may be left wondering how you’ll make your space usable again. Here are a few tips to help.

Work Fast

Sewage backflow is a problem that needs to be addressed quickly. Black water (heavily contaminated sewage) often causes serious illness and should be handled by a professional. Even gray water (unclean water that is not necessarily deadly) can cause health problems if it is not disposed of properly.

Contaminated water might include:
Microbes that are dangerous to your health
Harsh chemicals
Viruses and bacteria
Mold spores

Watch for Mold

After a flood, mold spores are ever present. They become a problem when they bloom and evolve into colonies. That growth is a fast process in a damp environment. As soon as you’re able to remove flood water and begin dehumidification, do so. Not only will you save yourself on water damage, but you’ll reduce the time that mold has to grow.

Call a Qualified Professional

Leaving standing water in your building any longer than necessary will impact more than just the contents of your building; it will increase the odds that standing clear water will turn into dangerous gray or black water. Eliminate the risk of mold growth and illness by calling in a professional as soon as possible.

A qualified restoration contractor will have the knowledge and equipment to deal with your sewage loss quickly and efficiently. They’ll safely remove all excess moisture from your structure, and then reduce the mold levels in your property to normal levels. This eliminates the odors without tricks or shortcuts. They’ll use processes like air filtration and mold containment to disinfect and deodorize your property appropriately.

Flood water causes a lot of damage, both seen and unseen. A qualified professional can help you remove sewage loss and mediate mold growth properly in order to minimize the damage. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on flood damage.

The Repair Of Water Damage

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

The Repair Of Water Damage

Homeowners or business owners that experienced water damage need to act quickly to begin the restoration process. These are the steps that the restoration company will follow during the restoration process of a flooded home or business:

1. Prevention Of Additional Water Damage:


If the water in home is coming from outdoors, the restoration company will block the areas it appears to be coming in from. If a pipe break occurred, measures will be taken to prevent the pipe break from leaking while it's being repaired. If a main pipe break occurred, the water to the house may have to be shut off. If it's a supply line break, the restoration company might close a valve to prevent water from reaching the supply line break. Then, the restoration company will repair the pipe break in a way that ensures the leak won't recur.

2. Water Damage Assessment:


If there is any uncertainty about what caused the water damage, this will be determined before the water cleanup begins. If the cause is known to be a weather event, professionals will still have to carefully evaluate exactly how the flood damage happened. If a supply line break occurred, restoration professionals will determine if the supply line break was caused by any specific factors.

Then, the severity of the flood damage will be determined. The severity of flood damage on surfaces is measured using a hydrometer. Since flood damage often causes mold growth, restoration professionals will check areas of a flooded home that are likely to harbor mold. Infrared cameras are used to determine if there is water in home behind walls.

3. Removal Of Water In Home Or Water In Business:


Water in home or water in business is removed using powerful pumps that are designed specifically for water cleanup. If you have a severely flooded home, submersible pumps are utilized. In more minor cases, water in home or water in business can be removed with a wet dry vacuum.

4. The Drying Process:


Surfaces of a flooded home or business can remain wet for a long period of time after the water is pumped out. In order to expedite the drying process, water cleanup professionals pay close attention to the air in the building. Water cleanup professionals use dehumidifiers and air movers to create ideal air conditions for drying. Air movers are devices that are specially designed for drying and create an air current.

5. Ensuring The Building Is Sanitary:


The mitigation of mold growth will begin as soon as the water is removed. Specialized equipment and cleaners are used for the mitigation of mold. If mold growth has begun, the removal of some items may be necessary. This could even include materials that are located above the water line.

Porous surfaces with mold growth are often removed, but non-porous surfaces are typically cleaned during the mold mitigation process. Appliances that have been waterlogged often have to be disposed of. It is difficult to assess whether or not they have been affected by mold damage. In many cases, the filters of the heating system will need to be replaced.

Personal belongings also will be cleaned. There are various methods that can be utilized to clean personal items. However, some personal items may have to be disposed of. This is especially likely for items that have become moldy.

Professionals will also deodorize the building using specialized sprays and scented cleaners. This process is likely to be especially extensive if you had water in business due to the fact that the odor created by wet materials can deter customers.

6. Replacement:


Items that were removed during the mitigation of water damage can be replaced by the restoration company.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on water damage.

Why Professionals Should Handle Commercial Fire Damage

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Why Professionals Should Handle Commercial Fire Damage

Fire damage is a lot more common than you might think, and thousands of businesses deal with intense commercial fire damage year after year. Even after the firefighters have left with their fire hoses and fire trucks, you are left to handle the fire damage and ultimate loss on your own. This is why it is imperative that you work with a fire restoration team to get rid of the damage caused by an electrical fire or utility room fire and restore the company to its former glory.

How Experts Handle Commercial Fire Damage

Fire suppression and fire sprinkler systems are incredibly important for keeping your company as safe as possible. One of the reasons fire damage and commercial fire damage is even allowed to start is because a fire sprinkler system and fire suppression system had never been put into place. Because of this, you are going to want to talk to the fire restoration experts as well as a firefighter to find out more about what is available to you. The experts can also get rid of soot damage caused by the commercial fire damage as well as any remaining smoke damage.

What to Expect with Fire Restoration

The fire restoration experts specializing in this job will get rid of the soot damage and smoke damage that has been left after firefighters left with their fire hoses and fire trucks. The fire hose can also leave behind a nasty amount of water damage, so this will also be dealt with by the experts. The key is to contact the pros after firefighters leave so that you can begin repairs. You should never attempt to do this work on your own especially after an electrical fire or utility room fire has hit the area.

How to Contact a Local Fire Damage Company

The fire sprinkler system and fire suppression system can be put into place by the experts as well. Not only will these professionals handle the smoke damage left behind as well as the soot damage, but they can deal with putting in a fire sprinkler system and fire suppression system for you at a price you'll find to be affordable. Once the firefighters leave with their fire hoses and fire trucks, you are going to need to look for a good quality company to help out with the cleanup and restoration. No fire truck can do this type of work for you.

Other Things to Know

The soot damage and remaining smoke damage can be handled by the pros when it is most convenient for you. If you have also had an electrical fire or utility room fire, it is important that you understand that you will need to hire other professionals to handle this issue. Electrical fires and utility room fires cannot be handled by a professional restoration company and a fire can happen again if you are not too careful.

There are a lot of reasons for hiring this type of professional, but the most important thing to realize is that there are experts out there who are more than willing to help you out when you need it the most. This is something you should never attempt to do on your own, simply because of the fact that this is something that can be problematic in more ways than just one. The good thing to know is that there are tons of experts out there who are more than willing to help you out and restore your company back to the way that it was. This is a service you are going to find to be highly beneficial in many different ways, allowing you to regain control of your life and know that you have the professionals there who can help out in every way that they possibly can after they have come to your home.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on fire damage.

Picking Up the Pieces After Storm Damage

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Picking Up the Pieces After Storm Damage

When you are struck by a major storm, whether it is a hurricane, a flood, strong winds, or a winter blast, it can turn your whole world upside down. Storm damage can be considerable. River flooding or flooding of any kind is a typical result of hurricane damage. Ground water and flood water can rise to alarming levels. It can enter your home and cause destruction. Your flood pump may not be able to keep up with the water that rises in your basement. The end result is a serious need for storm remediation. No matter what kind of damage you have, whether it is hurricane damage or ice damage, you are going to need help when it is time for home restoration after the storm has finally over. When it is time to pick up the pieces, call in the experts for storm damage restoration.

Taking Those Initial Steps

Once the storm has passed, you will be left with the damages. It is too overwhelming to try and manage the home restoration process on your own. When you bring in a professional team that knows about storm restoration, it will be possible to turn your disaster around. They will begin with an evaluation of your home. They will look at hail damage, water damage, and wind damage. They will consider the presence of flood water or ground water in your home. They will assess roof damage caused by a roof leak and determine what type of roof repair work is needed. If it is winter time and you have ice damming, frozen pipes, and ice damage, a plan of action will be determined to suit your needs. Once your professional storm restoration team has completed their initial evaluation, they can concentrate on storm remediation.

Breaking Down the Damages

When you are facing hurricane damage, wind damage, hail damage, and water restoration are going to be major issues caused by extreme storm damage. River flooding or flooding are typical problems that must be addressed, leaving water behind in your home. A flood pump can be used to remove any signs of flooding. Your professional storm damage restoration experts will take care of the process of removing all signs of flooding or river flooding. They will use the flood pump to get rid of ground water or flood water that lingers in your home. When it has no place to go, a flood pump can get rid of it as part of storm remediation. Roof damage is another issue. Wind damage, hail damage, and hurricane damage in general can result in considerable roof damage. When there is a roof leak, roof repair is necessary to avoid additional water damage throughout your home. Water restoration is possible, as well as home restoration, when the roof is sound once again in order to continue in the process of storm remediation.

Dealing with Winter Storms

When storms strike in the winter, ice damming is typical. Ice damming creates an ice dam on your roof that can cause severe roof damage. Ice damming can be a major source of ice damage that will leave you with a mess. Your storm restoration team can take care of all of the problems that come with an ice dam. They can remove the ice dam and look at roof leak issues that require roof repair. Once the ice dam is gone and a roof leak is located, they will complete all roof repair work. Frozen pipes are another issue. Frozen pipes can result in a break or flooding in the basement. Your storm restoration crew can take care of the damages brought on by frozen pipes in order to complete storm remediation.

It's Time to Clean Up and Achieve Home Restoration

Once all issues have been addressed from river flooding, wind damage, flood water, and ground water, water restoration will be achieved. Put any kind of damage, from hail damage to ice damage behind you. With water restoration services, all services will be sanitized. Anything that has been damaged will be repaired. Fresh paint and drywall will help you to rebuild. You can have a fresh start when you turn to the professionals.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on storm damage.

Water Damage: What Needs to Be Done

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage: What Needs to Be Done

Water damage is no laughing matter. Whether a person experiences water in a home or water in a business, the focus should be on water cleanup as a way of minimizing the damage. Calling a restoration company is critical to help with mitigation and restoration. It's important to understand what they will do in order to make a difference.

Minimize the Problem

If there is a pipe break or a supply line break, it can result in hundreds if not thousands of gallons of water. Any amount of water in a home or water in a business can be detrimental. Mitigation becomes the biggest focus as it's necessary to minimize the problem.

While some mitigation can be done by the home or business owner, it's important to call in a restoration company. It's what will make it easier to focus on water cleanup, drying, and getting the water in a home or water in a business out.

Additionally, the pipe break or supply line break needs to be addressed so that the influx of water can stop. If it's a flooded home because of the weather, then it might be necessary to bring in sand bags and try to divert the water until the storm passes.

Any level of mitigation can be helpful. By working with professionals, it's a lot easier to prevent water damage and focus on any flood damage that has occurred.

Start Drying the Affected Areas

Water damage can begin almost immediately. Some materials are more apt to be affected by a flooded home than others, which is why mitigation is of the utmost importance. Many people don't realize how much water can enter a home or business as a result of a pipe break or supply line break until it happens.

Drying will help with the water cleanup. All excess water needs to be removed. By working with a professional restoration company, they will be able to use state-of-the-art equipment to help with drying. The walls, floors, furniture, and more can be dried effectively to minimize the water in a home or water in a business.

When it comes to flood damage, it's important to identify what can be repaired and what needs to be replaced. Items inside of a flooded home that are too wet and cannot be dried need to be discarded. Additionally, if the water is from a supply line break or pipe break that does not have potable water, such as sewer water, part of the water cleanup will also involve sanitation.

Address the Issues

All sorts of issues will need to be addressed when there is a flooded home or business. No one wants to get rid of more than what's necessary. Additionally, the flood damage has to be corrected so that a person can move back into their home or re-open their business.

All water damage has to be identified. From there, it will be easier to see what needs to be tossed and what can be salvaged. A restoration company will be able to ensure that the water doesn't cause long-term damage, such as mold or wood rot, too.

Create a Restoration Plan

A restoration plan needs to be put into place to deal with the flood damage in a home or business. Professionals will now how to make a plan and coordinate with insurance if necessary.

No one should try and handle the water damage to their property alone. With the help of a good company that knows about restoration, it will be easier to figure out what needs to be done the moment there is too much water inside of a building.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on water damage.

What To Do If You Have Fire Damage

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

What To Do If You Have Fire Damage

Fire damage in a house or building fire can be completely devastating, and the cleanup process is not easy. DIY fire damage restoration is never advised due to the complex and difficult cleaning process that is required after a fire. Smoke damage and soot damage occur after fires and the remedies are all included as part of the fire cleanup process. If you have suffered from a fire in home or fire in your business, make sure you call a professional restoration company to help you board up the area and deal with the aftermath, get rid of the smoke smell, and help with any other aspect of home or commercial fire damage. Here is what you should do in the event that you have smoke damage, soot damage, or fire damage.

1. Don't Enter Your Home
Fire damage doesn't just create a smoke smell or soot smell, it can deteriorate and destroy the foundation of your home. You need to make sure that any entry into your home is cleared by a professional fire company prior to entering the premises. There is also a risk of a fire restarting, even if it appears to be completely out.

2. Make a Few Calls
Informing family and other loved ones of the fire, and your safety status is one of the most important parts of fire damage restoration. Material items can be replaced, but your family's peace of mind is important. Next, call your insurance company. Many companies cover fire damage restoration if you have suffered from home fire or a fire in business.

3. Fire Report
Obtaining a copy of the fire report is also crucial in the early stages after you experience a fire in home or fire in business. Your local fire agency can help you obtain a copy of the report, and if they can't release it to you they will instruct you on where to obtain a copy. The fire report will include the home's condition, persons involved, and other important information required by both your insurance company and the restoration company who comes in to help clean up the damage and board up the house.

4. Securing the Property
Whether you experience home or commercial fire damage, many insurance companies mandate that you board up the area. A restoration company can assist you with this to make sure that you are safe throughout the process. If your utilities are unsafe, the fire department will make sure they are turned off before they leave the area. It is important to not turn them on after they have been shut off!

5. Replace Documents
Whether the documents have suffered smoke damage, soot damage, or been destroyed entirely, it is important to replace them. This should be done before the fire cleanup so you have time to start the process of replacing them. You should also be sure to replace any damaged credit cards after you cancel them. Don't forget the social security cards, birth certificates, or driver's licenses that haven't been damaged by the fire.

6. Begin Cleanup
This process is where you will want to make sure to hire a professional restoration company. It is never advisable to try and remedy the damage that occurs from a fire in home or fire in business because it is dangerous and a complicated process to remove the smoke smell, smoke damage, and fire damage. Fire damage restoration companies will help you board up the house or, in the event that there is commercial fire damage, board up the business as well. Fire cleanup usually includes getting rid of smoke damage, smoke smell, soot damage, and fire damage.

Whether you have suffered a fire in home or fire in business, it is important to always leave the damage control to the professionals. Fire cleanup with residential or commercial fire damage can be complicated and tricky, and getting it done right the first time is crucial. Give your fire restoration company a call and leave it to the professionals!
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on fire damage.

Questions about Mold Answered

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

Questions about Mold Answered

Remediation of mold damage is invaluable for mold in home or commercial mold damage. There isn't typically a short term fix. Mold spores can expand and eventually become a long term issue. Those spots you see associated with black mold, fungus or mildew aren't as innocent as they seem to be. It can lead to devastating financial consequences for home or business owners. There's a lot of misinformation about mold growth and mold damage out there these days. Here are answers to some typically asked questions by those concerned with their first sign of mold.

Can a restoration company provide true mold removal?
Mold damage can be costly in mold in home or commercial mold damage situations. A restoration company has enough experience to not only investigate the origins of the mold but to also thoroughly remove the issue. They can ultimately find the source which leads to resolution of the entire issue.

Does mold growth expand through the course of time?
Mold growth does absolutely expand if left untreated. Mold growth can expand because spores thrive in humidity and moisture. More of that could lead to what is known as dry rot. Dry rot happens when wood in your structure gets infected with mold. This weakens the wood. It decays and that leaves the entire structure compromised. The worst case scenario is the wood decays enough and an entire rebuild of the dwelling needs to take place. The drastic costs associated with a complete rebuild can perhaps be avoided with a simple consultation from a restoration company in the early stages of mold.

I have mold growth behind wall. How does a restoration company find that?
Experts who have battled different types of mold for years have professional grade equipment. They can find the origin of the mold. Mold growth behind wall can be infuriating for those just noticing the smelly odor. Those with mold in home or commercial mold damage may be tempted to tear down the walls to find the source of the problem. A professional will be able to diagnose where the mold is occurring and how to properly remove it.

The smelly odor is outrageous. How do I safely remove it?
Deodorization is the removal of the smelly odor. Professionals in mold removal have deodorization methods unavailable to the general public. They have professional grade equipment so deodorization actually works. Mold growth behind wall is often hidden but provides that awful aroma.
The goal is to bring the smell back to normal. Many consumers will notice the mildew smell won't go away with many over the counter products. That's where deodorization differs with a restoration company.

How does mitigation or remediation actually work?
Mitigation is just the lessening of the actual damage of mold. Remediation is the complete removal which involves sanitizing, deodorization and activities to prevent further occurrences. Either way, home or business owners will struggle to figure out ways to properly do mitigation or remediation on their own. Do it yourself videos are abundantly available but they offer no professional grade equipment and usually short term solutions to what could be long term problems. The difference between what a restoration company can offer and what an individual can do is based on experience, knowledge and professional grade equipment. It's also based on knowing which type of mold they are dealing with. Is it black mold? Is it one of the many other variations? Knowledge is power when dealing with mold spores.

Can't I just clean the fungus and mildew myself?
People with mold in home or commercial mold damage might assume it's safe to remove fungus and mildew damage on their own. While this is possible, it's also not rectifying the source of the issue. A person could find they have to clean this same issue over and over again over the next few months or years because the source of the problem was never addressed. A leaky pipe in the interior could be causing the issue. The household HVAC system could be the issue. A leak in a roof could also be the culprit. Black mold could result from that leak. Poor ventilation is also a detriment and leads to mold. Mold damage comes in all shapes and sizes and has varying sources. Mold removal needs to also be addressed in that manner. Home or business owners don't want the fungus to eventually lead to dry rot or black mold. A smelly odor could also be present and that's never a good sign.

Is dry rot irreversible?
Dry rot can be a big problem and can lead to big financial loss. It can lead to a complete reconstruction of the home or business if it advances. That's why mitigation of the issue as soon as possible is important. Wood can decay and hurt the infrastructure of any building. It can happen with mold growth behind wall so it's hidden. The good news is the issue can be resolved if stopped in time. Mold removal by experts helps alleviate the issues and can prevent further damage.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold.

What to do While Waiting for the Fire Damage Restoration Company

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

What to do While Waiting for the Fire Damage Restoration Company

When a fire has left your home in ruins, knowing what to do until a professional fire restoration company arrives to clean things up can make a tremendous impact on the overall loss you sustain. Fire damage restoration adds a bit of assurance to an uncertain situation, but fire cleanup is always the first step. Smoke damage and soot damage are two of the unseen dangers lurking after a fire. Both soot damage and smoke damage can have a massive impact. But, how can you avoid smoke damage and soot damage? What do you do to minimize the dangers left behind after a fire has devastated your home? The following tips make it easier to restore your home after a fire, before the professionals arrive on the scene.

Is it Safe to Go Inside?

Your safety -and that of family and friends -is of great significance after a fire. Do not return inside the home until given the green light to do so by the fire company. The smoke smell is one danger left behind after a fire, but there's a variety of additional risks of returning inside the house after a fire in home. Fire damage restoration saves the day!

Board Up the House

You should board up the house after a fire, if the fire department doesn't handle this task. You can use large, sturdy boards for the board up. When the house is boarded, you prevent intruders from coming inside, but also gain additional benefits such as minimizing fire damage and injuries when you board up.

Choose the Best Restoration Company

Fire damage restoration companies are a dime a dozen, but you shouldn't hire the first restoration company that comes your way for a fire in home or fire in business. Instead, choose a trustworthy, reputable restoration company who will exceed expectations. After a fire in home, the last thing you want to do is deal with a company lacking professionalism or who cares about making money and nothing more. Choose an experienced, certified company with a good reputation, free estimates and competitive pricing. Residential and commercial fire damage professionals who care about your needs are out there waiting for you to find them.

What About a Fire in Business?

A fire in business is just as scary as a fire in home and should be handled with the same care and attention. If you are a business owner dealing with a fire in business, ensure that you do not let employees inside the building until it is safe to do so. Salvage any items that are safe to handle, and hire a professional fire cleanup crew to clean the mess that is left behind. The smoke smell is easy-to remove from many items in your business, so don't allow the smoke smell prevent you from grabbing items left behind. A fire in business may leave you unable to operate for a few days, but the assurance offered when you hire a commercial fire damage company puts thins back into perspective. Commercial fire damage is no match for the experts at a fire cleanup company. A commercial fire damage company charges minimal fees for thorough fire cleanup, saving you time, headache and hassle. Find the right commercial fire damage restoration company for confidence and peace of mind.

Points to Ponder After Fire Damage

Although you want to save as much as possible after fire damage, some things may have sustained damage due to the fire and shouldn't be salvaged. Canned goods, beverages, and frozen foods are items that you should toss after a fire. If electrical items were in the home, check with a professional before attempting to use the items again. When cleaning damaged clothes, choose a dry cleaner specializing in fire damage to ensure the smoke smell, soot damage, and smoke damage are all removed from the items. Change the HVAC filters in your heating and cooling unit, and ensure that you limit movement in the home to avoid the spread of soot and other particles left behind from the fire.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on fire damage.

Professional Mold and Mildew Removal

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Professional Mold and Mildew Removal

Mold damage can affect your home or office after water damage and become a serious problem very quickly. It is important to know the steps you can take if your home is suffering from mold growth. Contact a mold remediation and restoration company to help you with mold removal.

Mold is a type of fungus and it survives by consuming dead, organic matter such as dry leaves and wood. Spores - small, lightweight "seeds" - can be found anywhere there is a source of moisture, both indoors and outdoors. They are common and they travel through the air, so it is easy for one to find its way into your home or office. If one lodges in a suitable environment it can grow into a colony within 24-48 hours.

Thousands of different mold growths exist. Some molds are allergens and can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, nose, or respiratory system. Black mold is a well-known health concern and should be addressed immediately.

Risks for Mold Damage

If your home experiences water damage you may be at risk for mold growth. Mold can get out of hand very quickly. It is important to manage any compromising situations as soon as they arise. Consider mold removal if your home experiences water damage due to:

Flooding
Leaks from plumbing, washing machine or air conditioner
Sink or bathtub overflow
Sewage backup
Dampness or humidity


Identifying Mold Fungus and Dry Rot

Mold fungus can be identified by its appearance and smelly odor. The first sign of mold is discoloration on the affected area. Usually, mold presents as gray or green and it has a smelly odor. Dry rot can often be found around the mold growth or as a result of it.

Black mold fungus is dangerous and can cause serious health problems. Black mold appears blackish-green in color, has a smelly odor and has a slimy texture similar to paint. Get the area affected by black mold treated immediately by a mold removal company.

What to do When You Find Mold or Dry Rot

Consult a professional mold remediation and restoration company as soon as you find mold in your home or if you need commercial mold damage treatment. The restoration company will carefully inspect your property and assess the severity of mold in the home before determining what equipment and resources are needed for mold removal, cleanup, and deodorization.

Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold.

Preparing for Water Damage

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

Preparing for Water Damage

Water is essential to the life of a human being and a lot of it can cause a lot of destruction. Thus it is inevitable and when it happens then one must carry out water damage restoration.

What is water damage?

This is the destruction that is caused by excess water during a given period of time by water in home or water in business. When there is excess water in home or water in business certain materials are bound to get spoiled. This includes materials such as ceiling board, wood, and steel among many others. Water in home and water in business precipitates certain processes such as the rotting of wood and rusting of steel. The damage caused by water in home or water in business may happen gradually especially when there is damage to your drainage system and plumbing system or all over sudden during natural catastrophes such as floods or hurricanes.

The process of water damage

There are various categories which can exist in any premises. They include:

• Category 1: This is basically called clean water. It is mostly caused by damage to the water supply system, when a sink overflows or when there is a problem in the clean water system of the home. This can cause damage in the home or even in the office.

• Category 2: This is also called grey water. This type of damage has a large number of contaminants caused by physical, chemicals or biological pollution. It causes damage in the home or in the office after plumbing system problem, water from washing machines or even a dishwasher.

• Category 3: This called black water. This is the worst form of damage. It contains dangerous contaminants like sewage water.

In addition to this, it can also be classified as class 1 which has a sluggish pace of evaporation, class 2 with a quick pace of evaporation, class 3 with a quicker pace of evaporation and class 4 with the quickest pace of evaporation.

What to do if you have water damage.

The damage is sometimes attributed to natural causes, therefore it is deemed to be inevitable. In the event that it occurs, the first step that one should think about is how water drying will be done. The water cleanup requires water restoration methods which will lead to complete drying of the premises. The water restoration techniques used are determined by the period it has been stagnant and the amount of damage that was caused. Depending on the destruction caused the water restoration may be carried out by a professional or even by the premise owner. Hydraulic restoration is basically drying of the water which should be done as soon as possible to reduce further damage. During the water cleanup, extensive labor may be used especially if the damage is significant. Professional water cleanup requires proficient equipment.

Immediately there is damage to any premises, all electrical appliances should be disconnected. All water sources should also be closed or stopped especially if the water is from a leaking tap, water line or any kind of seepage. Mitigation should be carried out by a professional. During the mitigation, equipment used to detect water will be used to establish the extent of the destruction. Floating materials should be picked and kept safely. The water cleanup exercise should be done efficiently by qualified personnel especially if the damage is extensive. Hydraulic damage should be eliminated by drying the premises completely.

How to recover your home after flood damage:

Flood damage is one of the hydraulic damages that cannot be prevented. In the case of flood damage, all electric appliances and gas should be promptly switched off. One should ensure that they are properly insulated while doing this. Before proper mitigation, one should assess the general damage before the water cleanup is carried out. Photos of the flood damage area should be taken for further assessment. Water cleanup involves picking up of important materials around the house before the drying begins. One should contact professionals for the mitigation process to begin.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on water damage.

Immediate Fire Damage Restoration Is Necessary After a Fire In a Home

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

Immediate Fire Damage Restoration Is Necessary After a Fire In a Home

When a fire occurs in a building, a property owner might wonder what she needs to do to repair the damage quickly. A fire in a home can make it impossible for the residents to remain inside the building because of the dangerous smoke damage. The smoke smell can make someone feel nauseated because it will contain gases from melted plastics and burned fabrics, but the smoke damage can also make it difficult for someone with a respiratory problem to breathe. To eliminate the smoke smell in a building, a professional fire damage remediation company will have the industrial-strength ozone purification machines and circulating fans required to purify the air inside a home or business.

Contact a Professional Fire Cleanup Team After a Fire In a Business

Contacting a professional fire cleanup team after a fire in a business or home is essential because they understand how to perform fire damage restoration according to the recommended standards. The goal of a professional fire cleanup is to have a building restored to its previous condition. Depending on the extent of a fire in a home or business, this process can require only a few hours, or it might require several weeks to repair all of the building’s problems. If a building has extensive damage such as a hole in the roof or siding, then the fire damage restoration technicians can cover the holes with waterproof tarps.

Commercial Fire Damage Repairs Are More Complex

Commercial fire damage repairs require expertise because a business’s building is larger, and the structure may contain more items that were damaged by smoke, water or soot. For commercial fire damage, the team of technicians may need to remove an assortment of goods that were burned by the flames. Some of these goods might include the products that were in a retail establishment, including buckets of combustible paint or cleansers. Alternatively, a medical facility might require fire damage restoration, and this type of building may contain sensitive equipment or volatile medications that are dangerous for a remediation team to handle.

A Remediation Team Uses Specialized Techniques While Performing Repairs

In addition to eliminating a smoke smell after a fire in a business or home, it is essential to have the soot damage repaired as soon as possible. Smoke damage and soot damage require different types of fire damage repairs. Soot is a combination of greasy creosote and other substances that will coat surfaces such as floor tiles, light fixtures and drywall. Removing soot damage is an important part of fire damage cleanups because this greasy substance is dangerous. Soot can contain chemicals that are carcinogenic, and the fire damage restoration team must wear protective gear such as suits, gloves and goggles. Not only does a fire damage team need to use caution while removing soot damage to avoid contact with their skin, but also, the substance is dangerous for them to breathe.

A Fire In a Business Causes Extensive Water, Soot and Smoke Damage

After commercial fire damage occurs, the building may also have a lot of moisture problems because businesses are typically equipped with fire sprinklers that will spill hundreds of gallons of water. For a fire in a home or business, there is often moisture damage in addition to fire damage because the firefighters douse the flames with highly pressurized water. A fire damage remediation team will have an assortment of water extraction devices to suction the water from surfaces along with removing any soot damage. It is important for a professional fire cleanup to begin as soon as possible to remove the smoke smell from the building to keep the odor from seeping into more materials.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on fire damage.

What Everyone Should Understand About Mold

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

What Everyone Should Understand About Mold

Microscopic mold spores exist in outdoors and indoors, and often, removing all mold damage from a business or home is not possible. It's so tricky that any business or home can be easily affected by mold damage; due to water source leaks, for instance, plumbing or roof leaks. And commercial mold damage spreads quickly through entire properties in as little as three days and cause allergies as well as irritation among other health effects.

Types of Mold

Almost one hundred species of molds have the potential of creating a disaster. The following are the common mold in a home: Cladosporium, Alternaria, Aspergillus, Stachybotrys chartarum and Penicillium, fungus, mildew. Anyone suspecting mold damage should never try to burn them.

It is advisable to protect your family from burning mold in home may cause air contamination and smelly odors that may lead to more adverse effects. Always remember that mold is present in all places, either outdoors or molds in home. Since mold spores are microscopic, they can float through the air and gain access into your home via the doors, windows or even through pets and clothing.Besides, mold spores live in moisture and quickly multiply to colonies when water is nearby. Fungus and mildew also generate musty, strong odor, all water and moisture sources have to be addressed. If not, the molds re-occur.

Mold Remediation

Mold removal involves identification and removal of the mold damage from a structure. Mold in home cleanup helps to stop the growth of fungus and mildew through isolation of the damaged parts, removal of moisture sources as well as the elimination of the used parts; to recreate a healthy environment.

Mold removal is performed by commercial mold damage clean up specialists who help to control the associated health risks. Note that using water and bleach does not guarantee success. Fungus and mildew material from the mold in a home have to be separated, and the affected area reconstructed. As such, mold mitigation is a thing for the trained professionals only.

Competent commercial mold damage agencies know all the science of mold and they are professionals with many years experience in mold removal. Mold removal is all about bringing back the mold level back to original levels and air deodorization. Commercial mold damage remediation involves the following procedures:

Assessment requires professional who come to your business are or home to identify the type of mold and the source of the mold issue. This is where the professionals address the source of moisture problem by cutting off or isolating the area from the rest of your business or home.

Filtration is where professionals utilize pumps or filters to clean the surrounding area from previous air pollution by the mold particles. At this stage, even the experts maintain high safety standards by wearing masks and goggles to reduce any exposure to the airborne pollutants and other smelly odors.

At the Removal stage, any affected personal belongings or building materials are removed through deodorization. All materials are then disposed of off since mold survives on almost anything solid. Removal ensures that the mold does not return in the future. Some of the materials are even washed with antimicrobial cleaners and the treated areas sealed to provide extra mold and water resistance. The experts also clean the air and heating conditioning systems for deodorization from smelly odors.

It is very significant that the repaired and cleaned to maintain dryness. Note that moisture is the original problem, so proper mold remediation specialists also address moisture management for your home or business.

Restoration

Mitigation process immediately starts after all the contaminated materials are eliminated. The experts clean and replace the earlier contaminated ones. Experts have also explored all signs of visible mold, smelly odors, and water damage to guarantee successful cleanup.

But each mold mitigation scenario can have different exclusive resolutions, so it is always advisable to keep in touch with the nearest mold remediation and mitigation agency. Also, take care when hiring companies or contractors. Most companies tend to confuse mold remediation and mold removal. Seek for that company that has a lot of experience in mold remediation and deodorization.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold damage.

Key Tips When Dealing With Water Damage In Your Home

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Key Tips When Dealing With Water Damage In Your Home

Floods can destroy your home and cause significant damage to the floors, walls, furniture, and electronics. The solution is to rip out the damaged walls, tear out the carpets, and find the hidden pools of water in home crawlspaces. When water gets in business floors and working areas, you will have to close for a few days.

Flood protection initiatives
By redirecting the floodwaters, you can reduce the amount of water in business parking lots, entrances, and working areas. You can rely on the following flood mitigation tips if you are looking to protect your home from water damage and lower the cost of restoration:
• Understand your neighborhood and ask the relevant authorities about the flood risks in the area.
• Elevate your water heater, furnace, and other electrical appliances above the expected flood levels.
• Inspect your drains and sump pumps regularly.
• Modify your home’s electrical system to ensure that you can connect a backup generator in case you need power to remove the foul water from the house.
• Ask a licensed plumber to install a backflow prevention valve in the sewer
• Use sandbags to divert the water away from the foundation.
• Acquaint yourself with the flood alerts in your neighborhood to avoid surprises
• Store some building materials in your home since you might be unable to take them to the building site when it floods
• Design a safe evacuation route that you can use to safeguard your family from the floods
• Train the family members on how to shut the power mains and utilities
• Purchase a survival kit and pack your important documents, medications, and critical items that you require in case you need to vacate your home
• Flooding can cause the entry of excess water in home compounds and pose a variety of risks to the occupants
• Get the latest information from the media and respond to the news immediately
• Avoid walking or driving in the muddy areas and move to a high ground. Floodwaters carry lots of hidden items that might pose a lot of risks
• Avoid the fallen power lines and cables as you perform the restoration and water cleanup exercises

Water cleanup and drying the indoor air can help to prevent the flood damage.

Water Cleanup

Once the floods subside, you can return home to start the repairs. Start by discarding the food items that have expired or come into contact with the foul water. Remove the water as soon as possible and assess the building with the help of a home inspector. Remove the water from your basement and pump it out slowly to avoid the uneven pressure that can lead to structural damages. In addition, such water in home surfaces can lead to the propagation of molds. The best way to tackle the problem of water in business entrances is to erect some permanent barriers to control the floods. The water cleanup might also involve washing and disinfecting all the flooded areas. These areas include floors, carpets, and walls. When dealing with the flood damage, tart drying the carpets if you think that you can salvage them. When dealing with the water in business setups, discard anything that cannot be salvaged and plan to replace it after restoration. Inspect your heating and air conditioning system and look for any signs of flood damage.

Safety precautions

However, you should not test any electrical appliances without the assistance of a competent electrician. The prospect of finding the water in home carpets and other items can cause disappointments, and in most cases, you might not know where to start. When planning the mitigation and removal of water in business premises, you must get reliable information about the water damage and flood levels in the area. Elevating your home is one of the best mitigation initiatives to prevent water damage and avoid the costly restoration jobs. Drying the home after flood damage can help you to implement your mitigation plans successfully. You can also reduce the water damage by drying the indoor air.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on water damage.

How to Handle Fire Damage in Your Home or Workplace

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

How to Handle Fire Damage in Your Home or Workplace

A fire in home or business can be caused by many things. For example, a fire in business or home could be caused by a kitchen accident, an electrical mishap, a lightning strike or something else. When you have experienced fire damage in your home or business, it is imperative that you restore the property through the fire cleanup process as soon as possible. After all, as long as there is commercial fire damage in your business, you may not be able to earn a living in your workplace. Fire damage in the home may make it impossible to live in the space until the repair work has been completed. When you are dealing with damage from a fire as well as smoke damage and soot damage, you need a professional response from a skilled team. By calling fire damage restoration experts to your home, you can easily overcome the damage and move on to a brighter future.

Making the Initial Phone Calls

Immediately after you have had a fire in home or in your business, you need to reach out to your property insurance company to file a claim. Many types of residential and commercial fire damage are covered by property insurance, and this means that there may be an affordable way to overcome the damage and to complete the fire cleanup process. Your next step should be to contact a reputable fire damage restoration team as soon as possible. The fire cleanup process can take several weeks or longer to complete, and you may have to remove signs of the fire and smoke damage as well as soon damage. Both the charred and ashy mess and the smoke smell should be properly addressed, and this means the entire property may need to be treated or cleaned in some way. Because this process can take time to complete, it is imperative that you initiate the process as soon as possible after you have had a fire in business or in your home.

Removing Signs of Damage

Signs of fire damage can be found throughout your property, and the fire cleanup process must address all signs of fire and smoke damage. Even when a fire is localized, the residential or commercial fire damage may include charred surfaces, ashes and even heat damage. The smoke damage and soot damage can leave behind a smoke smell throughout areas of the property that were not touched by the fire itself. The smoke smell after requires special cleaning and deodorization steps. When you need fire damage restoration in your property, you can expect the team to remove all signs of damage as s first step.

Repairing the Property

A fire in home or in your business can touch many surfaces of the property, and in many cases, a fire in business or in your home requires at least a partial demolition of the property to fully erase the signs of residential or commercial fire damage. After this stage of the fire cleanup process has been completed, the actual fire damage restoration work can be completed. This means that the surfaces that were damaged by the fire and that were removed because of fire or soot damage may be replaced using professional craftsmanship. In addition, the smoke smell may be addressed through cleaning and deodorization if it has not already been done. While a fire in home or business can seem devastating, rest assured that all signs of fire damage can be erased when you set up restoration service with the right team.

Many people who experience a fire in business or in their home feel overwhelmed with emotion, and this can understandably be a stressful experience to deal with. However, the best way to move past the fire and soot damage is to restore the property through the fire damage restoration process. By contacting your insurance company and your fire damage repair team today, you can begin the process of restoring your property. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on fire damage.

Mold Damage Can Be Corrected

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Damage Can Be Corrected

Mold damage is something that can occur in any home or business. Many people do not realize they have this problem until there is a smelly odor that continues to grow stronger. If a Mold removal plan is not put in place, there can be damage to property, food spoilage and a number of other problems

Mold is a fungus that can quickly spreads from one area to another. Composed of small spores, it first presents itself in a fuzzy appearance or a black discoloration. This commonly appears on bread and other foods but it can also appear on walls, clothing and other areas causing serious damage property. There are thousands of types of fungus that can cause mold in home damage as well as commercial mold damage.

A common example of this type of damage appears in mildew. Mildew often occurs on clothing or other things that are wet, or damp, for a long period of time. It appears in dark spots and has a smelly odor and is difficult for simple deodorization to remove.

Home studies have found that carpet mold is usually due to extreme humidity and dirt. This is common on carpets that are located in a basement or other areas where moisture is present. What is unusual is that they found dirt contributes to Mold damage because it not only contains mold spores but contains moisture as well. This makes it perfect location for breeding mildew and mold.

Floods are a common reason for cases of commercial mold damage or mold in home. When this happens it is imperative that a commercial flood cleanup company be contacted. They have the equipment and materials to insure complete Mold removal and Mold damage repair as well as deodorization.

The business world is especially subject to commercial mold damage. With their warehouses and other storage units accumulating moisture, it is a perfect location for mold to develop. As a result these companies use every Mold damage mitigation possible to keep these areas mold free.

Mold mitigation is not an easy task. In many cases, it will be necessary to bring in a professional mold remediation company. These professionals have the knowledge, supplies, equipment and deodorization methods needed to remove any smelly odor or fungus that is present.

A mold remediation company will supply workers who dress in white suits, respirators, goggles and booties. They will spray the area with an EPA-approved biocide. The next day they will return and spray the fungus with encapsulant, a material that eradicates the mold spores that remain. They will not only spray the affected moldy area but the surrounding area as well. This is a preferred mitigation method when severe mold in home or commercial mold damage is involved.

Mold mitigation can sometimes be done by using simple methods if it is caught early. You can find various simple mixtures on the internet that are appropriate for the removal of mold, fungus and mildew. Of course, the first step is to get rid of any leaks or standing water and then drying the area using fans or other means.

Steps for correcting mold in home problems include:

• Isolate the area where the mildew or mold resides

• Remove and discard all materials or items that cannot be salvaged

• Be sure any special items, such as leather, are protected with plastic wrap

• Check out your HVAC system to be sure there is no mold present

• Thoroughly vacuum the contaminated area (put vacuum bag in secure plastic and discard)

• Scrub or wire brush all mold or mildew areas

• Make sure the entire area is thoroughly decontaminated and clean

• Dry thoroughly

When these mold removal remediation steps are followed you will have gotten rid of the smelly odor and restored your home or business to its original condition.

Mold damage can occur in any environment where there is dampness. As a rule, when simple remediation steps are followed it is not difficult to remove. Of course, in case of a flood, broken pipe or other catastrophes, it is important to call in professionals for mold removal, deodorization and cleanup. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Facts About Water Damage Restoration

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Facts About Water Damage Restoration

Water damage can arise either internally or externally. Externally as a result of floods surging in your house or internally as a result of a fault in plumbing, be it leaky roofs, broken pipes, blocked toilets and sewer line or leaking taps. Therefore, you cannot just assume that you will not be faced by water damage if you don’t live in a flood-vulnerable area. The little plumbing issues we see and neglect, every day, could be the cause of damage from water in business and water in home. The following tips will help you in water in flood damage and water damage restoration.

Mitigation of Water Flow

It is not in all cases where you will be able to stop the flow. In the case of surging flood, you might have to wait until the river recedes. However, if you are dealing with small leaks or other minor plumbing issues, there is something you can do about the flow. You can turn off water from the mainline. But, if you cannot find the water mainline, you can repair the leak yourself. This will help in the mitigation of further water damage before the water damage restoration experts get to your property.

Take Care of Wet Items

Anything that has been affected by the water damage should be taken out, where there is more air movement, for drying. Check for any fabric that could be handing in the pool of water, from curtains to furniture skirts. You will need to wash these before exposing them to high air movement, for drying Also, remove anything that you think might transfer ink or stain on your carpet. Drying items in a place with high air movement is a great step towards the mitigation of more loss.

Caring for Dry Items

Take aluminum foil and place it on the legs of your furniture. This will prevent them from getting in contact with water in business or water in home. Therefore, preventing permanent staining on your furniture. And, if you have items that are portable, you can move them to a higher ground to prevent water from reaching them. This will help in the mitigation of further secondary loss from flood damage.

Electricity Handling

If you have electronics that have been damaged by water in business or water in home, you need to have them unplugged. But first you need to shut off the electrical breakers in the area affected by flood damage. Next, ensure that you are standing on dry ground. However, you should avoid placing newspaper as a stepping ground. His is because, it might stain your carpet.

Water Cleanup

The water cleanup process can be a DIY job or you can call a water cleanup expert to do the job. Drying is a very important step in water damage restoration. And hiring a water cleanup pro is the best way to go. They will assess the air movement to ensure that you are free from moisture.

Call Your Insurance Company

In case of a water loss, be it because of water in business or water in home, it is important that you call your insurance company as soon as possible. If the water loss is due to floods, then you must have a separate insurance against flood damage. Ensure that you have photos and videos evidencing the damage. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on water damage.

Water Damage Restoration Tips

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration Tips

Folks who have lived on the east coast for any length of time are fully aware that some of those areas are tornado prone and that Mother Nature provides an opportunity for damage to be done. You should also know, or be aware, that it's not just a tornado with high winds that can cause havoc. Things as simple as a broken or damaged concrete slab can produce water in home, as well as water in business. Water damage may not reach the status of a 100 mile per hour tornado, but the flood damage can be annoying and costly. Actually, in a recent survey, it was found that water slab leaks are quite common in Florida and hard to detect.

Mitigation And Water Damage Restoration

There is not a whole lot worse that could happen to a person than standing knee deep in smelly water in your basement with thoughts of drying, water cleanup and air movement running through your mind. Well, maybe you were not prepared for this water damage and flood damage episode, but to prevent future problems of water in home or water in business - think: water damage restoration and mitigation. You should also understand that mitigation should be handled by an experienced and licensed professional water restoration contractor, not your neighbor or your cousin Bob. That said, if you are a homeowner or business owner with a water damage or flood damage conundrum, let's do a question and answer primer.

#1 - What are the effects of water damage, flood damage, water in home or water in business as well as water cleanup? If water makes a direct hit, it will cause drywall to sag, and fall apart. If wood is involved, it will swell and buckle, then rot.

#2 - Can water in home or water in business be prevented? There is not much you can do to an act of nature. But strangely enough, most significant water damage or flooding damage is caused by indoor plumbing failures like a leaky underground pipe.

#3 - How long does it take for the drying process or complete water cleanup? Mostly, drying and water cleanup will depend largely on the extent of damage, saturation and how long the water in home or water in business has been exposed to water.

Restoration, Air Movement, And Mitigation!

Using a certified restoration company to handle the drying, air movement, water cleanup and overall water restoration is best left for the professionals. They know why the air movement feels dry and usually have been in the water damage restoration business a long time.
Note: If you are wondering why a water damage restoration company would need to have access to your water in home or water in business once the water has been extracted and the drying process has begun, the professional contractor will need to continue monitor and control the moisture, humidity levels along with the air movement until everything in the environment is returned to normal and no mold threatens. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on water damage.

Not All Is Lost In A Fire Loss

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Not All Is Lost In A Fire Loss

A fire in home, fire in business or commercial fire damage can be a traumatic experience for any homeowner. When one experiences a fire in home, fire in business or commercial fire damage, it is pertinent to keep your composure and take all of the necessary steps to ensure that the life of you and other people are safe. In the aftermath of a fire, fire restoration services can assist in getting rid of the damage in your home. Companies that offer fire cleanup provide you with all of the services needed to restore your home.

After one experiences a fire damage from a fire in home, a fire in business or commercial fire damage, it is important to contact a fire restoration company immediately. By scheduling fire restoration services right away, you have the ability to minimize the losses, smoke damage, soot damage and the time needed for fire cleanup. You are also preventing a decline in air quality. The air quality deteriorates immediately after a fire. With better air quality, you are able to complete fire cleanup sooner. To begin the restoration process, a representative will ask a host of questions pertaining to the fire, smoke damage, soot damage, and fire loss. Fire loss refers to the items lost during a fire in home, fire in business or commercial fire damage.

When the fire restoration company arrives at your home, they will begin the process by assessing the severity of the fire damage, smoke damage, soot damage, and fire loss. After the fire restoration company has completed their assessment, they will initiate the restoration process by removing smoke damage. The air quality is directly tied to smoke damage and soot damage. Thus, when the smoke damage is eliminated, the air quality improves. Due to smoke odors lingering long after fire damage, it is important to remove smoke damage first.

Otherwise, it will make the fire loss more profuse and fire cleanup more of a hassle. During the initial phase of the restoration process, your home’s windows may be boarded. This is done to prevent additional damage from occurring. They may also place tarps on damaged roofs. The company will cautiously inspect to determine the severity of the fire loss, smoke damage, and soot damage. This gives the company the ability to develop a fire cleanup strategy.

The final phase of fire restoration is fire cleanup. The fire restoration company is trained to restore fire damage in a fire in home, a fire in business or commercial fire damage. After the fire cleanup finished, your home should be as good as new. Do not hesitate to schedule fire damage restoration services right away. Restoration is the final step and it may vary depending of the severity of the fire. Restoration typically involves repairs such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet. In severe cases, it may involve major repairs such as the replacement of multiple areas or rooms in a home or a business. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on fire damage.

3 Great Tips for Taking Care of Fire Damage

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

3 Great Tips for Taking Care of Fire Damage

Fire in business or fire in home can be an experience that most people will never forget. Watching a home or facility burn can be a very hopeless feeling when nothing really can be done until the fire department shows up to the site. After the fire is over, however, the next job begins. One in specific is getting things cleaned up so that everything can return to normal again. Based on the severity of the fire loss, soot damage, smoke damage and air quality issues experienced, the fire cleanup process can take a few days, several weeks or even months. So, it is very important for people to start their fire loss, soot damage, smoke damage and air quality cleanup solutions
right away. With this in mind, here are a few basic tips that people can use to get started with their fire damage restoration efforts.


Tip #1 – Find Housing for the Family and Addressing fire loss, soot damage, smoke damage and air quality problems

Fire loss, soot damage, smoke damage, and air quality problems in the fire in home and fire in business facility can be a very unnerving issue for all involved. So, one of the first things is to make sure everyone remains safe and secure during these times. Even though most people may be tempted to entire the site to see what they can do recover, it is best to proceed with care. Also, because no one may be able to enter the home until these are secure, the owner should make sure the family in a fire home situation has a place to stay for night until other arrangements have been made. (i.e. family member, friend, hotel etc.) Either way, finding a place to reside is one of the basic keys in making sure the fire loss, soot damage, smoke damage and air quality projects are planned accordingly and with ease.


Tip #2 - Contact a Commercial Fire Damage Service and Fire Cleanup Agency to Restore the Building or Facility back to new

When everyone involved in the fire has been settled in properly, another essential step in any fire damage restoration process is hiring a Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Company representative to supply the needs and requirements of a Commercial fire damage project. A commercial fire damage services can provide a number of essential needs including making an assessment of every thing that must be done to restore the burnt facility to its original state. The fire in home and fire in business services needs may vary based on its needs so it is best for the specialists to accesses and identify the commercial fire damage and the fire in home and fire in business prior to making a decision to buy.


Tip #3 - Fire in home and fire in business and Fire Damage and Fire Cleanup Procedures

Implementing the right kind of Fire cleanup procedures can be a challenge. Even for the most creditable and reputable Fire Damage and Fire Cleanup companies. So, it is very important that people do their homework first to see what will need to be accomplished in the interim. Some of the plans that the company implements can be a little difficult and daunting at times. Therefore, people can see what they can be do to alleviate all of the smoke damage in order for it to be a successful way to remove any of the fire damage that has already been done. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on fire damage.

Advice for Home and Business Owners for Mold Removal

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Advice for Home and Business Owners for Mold Removal

Mold is a microorganism that typically grows on organic matter. This substance typically grows on old food and within nature. However, mold is also known to grow inside of residential homes as well. Once this happens, a homeowner will have to find a way to clean their residence.

If they do not, microbial growth could overrun the residence. If this takes place, an owner will usually have to get rid of the property. The following information will explain the best way for a person to eliminate microbial growth from their home.

Hire a Professional Environmental Hygienist to Check for Fungus Rot

An environmentalist is an individual that is responsible for assessing structures, air supplies and nourishment center for potential problems with microbial growth. These individuals use a set of highly effective scientific processes to get rid of mold.

An environmental hygienist will come into a home and perform the following actions:

• They will do an immediate check of a residence.

• An environmental hygienist will then perform tests to determine if mold and other dangerous microorganisms are present.

• If microorganisms are found, the environmental hygienist will then take steps to remove deadly microbial growth.

• The hygienist will then remove all occupants out of the home and then inform them about how these microbes can make an impact.

• Once the microbes are removed, a hygienist will then explain to the property owner about the best way to keep the residence free from these dangerous microorganisms.

Flooding and the Growth of Mold

Flooding is one of the biggest contributors to the growth of decay, mildew and fungus. When a residence is soaked with water and the water is not taken out of the home; then fungus and mildew has a chance to rapidly grow.

Moisture contributes to rot. Bacteria growth springs up from this condition as well. Flood mitigation and mold cleanup is often necessary to get rid of fungus and mildew. Fungus and mildew typically start to form on basement walls when a home is flooded. Now, if a home is emerged in extremely deep water then the 1st level of a structure will also be exposed to excessive amounts of flood damage as well.

Mold Cleanup and Flood Mitigation

Mold cleanup and flood mitigation is often necessary to restore a home to livable condition. If this does not happen, the microbes that is present within an environment will spread ruining a home’s foundation and walls. Flood mitigation experts can take the water out of a home before getting rid of the fungal growth. Mold cleanup focuses on eliminating fungal growth to make a residence a livable place again.

There are many steps that are normally taken to make a home or business free from bacterial infection. These steps will help a person to keep their home or business in tact and to make them safe and sanitary dwellings. Most cities have flood mitigation and mold cleanup services for commercial businesses and residential dwellings. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Steps to Take After Water Damage

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

Steps to Take After Water Damage          
                        
            No matter where in St. Charles or Batavia, IL or anywhere
else in Illinois you live or do business, water damage can happen at any
 time without warning.  Whether it is caused by torrential rains,
floods, leaky or busted pipes, or plumbing issues, it is important to
take action as quickly as possible to protect your property.  All it
takes is an inch of water to cause serious damage to your furnishing,
structure and even the foundation of a building.  The faster you get rid
 of the water and begin the drying out process, the sooner you and your
loved ones will be able to safely return to your home or business and
your normal life.   


The actions you take immediately following a water loss are crucial.  
They can help to protect the lives and health of everyone in the
structure and limit the damage.  The first thing you should do is
determine the source of the water.  If it is from a flood or heavy
rains, then you should get to a safe location.  If the excessive water
in home or water in business is caused by a problem with the plumbing,
you should turn off the water main if you can do so safely.  This is the
 wisest course of action because it will stop the flow of water and
limit the damage to your property.


Another important step you should take if your home or business is
inundated with water is turn of the electricity and unplug your
electrical appliances.  Water and electricity is a dangerous mix.  If
you can safely get to the main power switch without endangering yourself
 or others, make sure your hand are dry and you are not in standing
water and turn the power off.  If attempting to do so will endanger you
or others, simply leave the building and contact the power company and a
 plumber.  They will know what to do to get the situation under control
and protect the property and the people in it.


One you have ascertained that no one is injured, your next call should
be to your insurance company.  Let them know about the water loss that
happened and the actions you've taken.  An insurance adjuster will come
to your St. Charles or Batavia, IL home or business and assess the
situation.  At that point they will see the damage the water in home or
water in business has caused.  They will discuss your mitigation options
 with you and help your to find a water cleanup company to get the water
 out of your home or business.  There are quite a few water cleanup
companies serving Illinois.  So it's important to understand what you
need and do some research until you find the right one.


Although your insurance company may be able to suggest a number of water
 mitigation companies you can use, you should feel free to do some
research on your own.  The companies can vary widely when it comes to
pricing and the types services they offer.  Therefore you should contact
 the local branch of the Better Business Bureau.  They will be able to
give you a list of highly-rated companies with experience cleaning up
properties that have been damaged by water.  Whether you suffered flood
damage, broken pipes or any other type of water inundation issues, there
 are a number of excellent companies from which to choose.


One of the most important steps in the process of helping your property
to recover from the damage caused by large amounts of water is to begin
the drying process.  The need for air movement through the property is
crucial.  If an adequate amount of air does not pass through your home
or business during the cleaning process, mold and other types of fungus
may begin to grow.  That can make the air quality in the structure
dangerous and cause the people that frequent the building develop a wide
 range of illnesses.  The mold and mildew growing in the damp places in
your home or business can even cause infants, the elderly and others
with weakened immune systems to become seriously ill or die.


Some people try to save money by cleaning up the damage caused by the
water inundation themselves.  But this can be a major mistake.  
Professional cleaning companies have specialized tools and employees
that are trained to safely remove the water and repair the damage it
caused.  They also have experience identifying the places in the
structure where moisture can hide.  Plus the professionals know how to
quickly and safely remove unsanitary carpets and furnishings.  Often
people trying to do the cleanup themselves don't have the appropriate
safety gear to protect their health during the cleanup process and can
become ill.  The professionals also have the skills and equipment to
create air movement and handle unforeseen problems that may arise.


Water loss is the most common type of insurance loss claim.  Whether the
 problem is caused by frozen or broken pipes, sewage backups, leaks from
 appliances or floods, the damage and losses are generally covered under
 standard property insurance policies.  But filing the claims can be
challenging.  Therefore it's essential to properly document all the work
 that's done to repair the damage done by the water event.  This
includes keeping receipts from hotels if you're forced to spend a night
or two away from your home or the cost of replacing products lost in
unplugged refrigerators. This will help you to get fair compensation for
 your losses and expenses.     


How water damage or flood damage is addressed within 24 hours after it
occurs is critical.  It can make at dramatic difference in the impact it
 has on your property.  Getting a cleanup team working on the problem
right away can prevent mold from developing and the deterioration of
sheetrock, flooring boards and even serious damage to the foundation.  
So don't hesitate when it comes to getting a skilled team to come in and
 address the damage caused by the water event.  
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on water loss and the restoration process.

What is Fire Loss Restoration?

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

What is Fire Loss Restoration?

Experiencing a fire loss causes stress on top of devastation. No one has to weather the situation alone though. While the insurance company helps settle the claim, call SERVPRO for help getting things back to normal. Whether fire damages a home or business due to arson, wildfire, or accidental fire, remediating the damage and restoring the structure and its contents takes time and a professional effort. The SERVPRO serving St. Charles and Batavia, Illinois can help address fire's destruction and its residual effects of smoke damage, soot damage, and water damage from fire supression efforts. Recovering from a fire loss consists of much more than gutting burned lumber and rebuilding. It extends to fire cleanup and abatement needs that address air quality issues, and mediate the potential development of mold and mildew from water damage caused by fire suppression efforts.

First Steps

From the moment of the first flame, the home or business owner mitigates damage by taking the right steps in the right order. Here's what to do.

    If present when fire breaks out, evacuate the premises. Do not try to save any items. Focus on getting safely out of the structure and away from the fire.
    Once at a safe distance, call 911 for fire suppression help. Also, request medical assistance, if needed.
    Call the insurance company that covers the home or business to get things moving on the claim.
    An insurance agent will examine the damage once fire personnel declare the structure safe to enter. The insurance agent may ask the homeowner or business proprietor to tour the structure with them.
    Request an advance against the eventual claim to address emergency needs and/or living expenses.
    Discuss whether the policy covers restoration services. If it does, the agent will probably suggest the owner obtain estimates from a few companies.
    Remove salvageable items to an unaffected area before repairmen and restoration professionals begin work.



The post-fire cleaning, repair, and restoration process requires special training. DIY efforts are not recommended. While the insurance company processes the claim, the home or business owner can jump start the return to normal by having Illinois SERVPRO professionals address the various types of damage to return the home to a safe and livable condition, or the business to an appropriate public safety level.

Fire Damage

Damage from fire consists of more than burned lumber. It includes secondary effects. Damage from fire also includes damage caused in the course of fire suppression, such as holes in the walls and broken windows. Fire fighters aren't willfully destructive. They break windows to more safely enter a structure and to vent it. They knock holes into walls to ensure that a fire which seems suppressed doesn't continue burning in the wall's interior. Fire may destroy some items inside the structure, requiring replacement, while flames merely damage others that restoration can salvage. Removal and restoration of damaged items requires a cleaning and abatement professional while wall repairs and window replacement requires a general contractor.

Water Damage from Fire

Water damage also occurs during a fire due to the methods of fire suppression used. Water damage can rot items, and cause mold and mildew. More than an unsightly mess, mold and mildew also affect the air in the structure. Water damaged hardy board or particle board requires replacement. A general contractor can demolish affected walls and replace the wall sections. Mold and mildew abatement requires specially trained personnel and equipment, including drying fans and commercial chemical treatments.

Smoke Damage

Some items not in the main fire area may incur damage from smoke or soot which forms from the debris of burned items. It causes visible damage and affects the quality of the air. Areas or items commonly affected by this secondary damage include:

    ceilings
    walls
    carpets
    fabrics
    upholstery.


Proper cleaning of damaged items removes the debris. In some cases, an item can't be recovered or restored, requiring replacement. Call a cleaning and abatement professional to address this damage.

Air Quality

As mentioned, water damage can spawn mold and mildew problems that affect the quality of the air in the structure. Debris and soot damage wreak havoc not immediately visible, too. Debris and soot collect in air vents. Re-establishing residency or re-opening for business without professional abatement creates a risk of developing respiratory issues. Fire debris spread by an un-abated HVAC system may adversely affect those with health conditions like COPD or asthma. An HVAC professional should examine and clean the structure's air systems and vents before the structure is returned to regular use. SERVPRO even provides odor control technicians. Although a bad smell might not cause disease, it does cause discomfort. Technicians thoroughly clean and freshen affected areas and items re-creating pre-fire comfort levels.

Why SERVPRO?

As complicated and stressful as recovering from a fire loss in St. Charles and Batavia, IL sounds, SERVPRO can help. The team provides complete fire cleanup, remediation and recovery teams that can address the contracting, air issues, water damage, HVAC, and damage caused by fire and smoke. The IL team works to restore the structure and contents to normal while the insurance company works on the claim. Although some companies rush the process, SERVPRO puts a premium on restoration of items rather than replacement. Each SERVPRO is locally owned and operated. It understands the importance of mementos, memories, and making things work. SERVPRO quickly addresses the owner's needs. The team arrives quickly, ready to work, armed with the latest professional equipment, cleaners, and restorative chemicals. Every technician receives specialized training in their area. SERVPRO hires experienced personnel who have stellar remediation track records. The company's quick response helps reduce further damage and that translates to a reduction of costs incurred by the owner. Together, the home or business owner, SERVPRO, and the insurance company form an unbeatable team that can efficiently, quickly restore a property to a comfortable, safe state.

Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information about the fire damage restoration process.

I'm a Homeowner and I Have Mold!

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

I'm a Homeowner and I Have Mold!           
                        
            Homeowners in the St. Charles and Batavia, IL areas will
notice when mild or mildew is building up in their house.  They will
smell something that is quite off-putting, and they will begin to wonder
 how bad the smell will get.  The odor may come from a fungus or
microbial growth, and this article explains how such things must be
removed from the house as soon as possible.  Cleaning the house is
simple, and removing all traces of a growth is difficult unless someone
has been notified of the problem.  


#1:  What Does The Environmental Hygienist Do?


Mold and mold cleanup services must be managed by someone who is a
professional in the industry, and they will arrive with a work crew who
knows how to help the homeowner when they feel their home has been
overrun with problems.  Illinois residents may experience mold or mildew
 growth when they have had a flood, and they will find it easy to keep
the house clean using the simplest of techniques.  There are special
machines the hygienist will use, and they will continue the work until
the house is cleaned out.


#2:  How Is Each Growth Removed?


Any microbial growth or fungus must be removed as soon as possible, and
the company will send in a team that ensures they have taken out each
bit of the growth that was found.  They will use special tools that are
made to scrub out the growth, and they will use special solvents that
are made to remove all growths.  The toxic nature of many of these
things causes problems that will send someone to the hospital, and the
homeowner will find it simple to keep the house clean once it has been
scrubbed down properly.  


#3:  Allowing Time For Proper Cleanup


The cleanup process will take moments when it is done well, and someone
who is impatient will see their work done improperly.  They must allow
the company quite a lot of time to get the work done, and they will
begin working on the project when the work has been cleared.  They
create a method that will be used to keep the house clean, and they will
 offer updates on their progress.  Progress that is made in cleaning
house will be updated often, and the homeowner will know how clean their
 home is in comparison to what they started with.  They will have a
peace of mind that comes with having the house cleaned by a
professional, and the work is certified by the company before they leave
 the house.


#4:  The Cleaning Must Happen Today


Mold cleanup procedures used by the environmental hygienist will ensure
the work happens immediately, and they will step in to ensure the house
has everything removed at once.  There are quite a few homes in St.
Charles and Batavia, IL that may be cleaned up today because the growth
was found earlier in the day, and the company will fit the schedule of
the client to ensure the work is done in a proper time.  Clients may ask
 the company to schedule at any time, and they may move quickly when it
is a dire emergency.


#5:  Ask For An Estimate


The homeowner will receive an estimate from the company that shows what
must be cleaned, how much it costs to clean it and how long it takes to
clean it.  Each step in the process may take some time, and it is all
priced to ensure the homeowner has an idea of how much they must pay.  
Their work is done in a way that is in-line with the industry, and they
will see pricing that is quite fair considering the severity of the
situation.


Everyone who has found a bit of mold in their home must call a company
to clean it out at once.  There is a source in the home that is causing
problems for the homeowner, and anyone who has trouble keeping the house
 clean must learn where the source was created.  They may have a
hygienist out to their Illinois home at once to ensure everything has
been cleaned as it should.            
        
    Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold remediation.

5 Ways A Clean Office Improves Your Business

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

Clean Office

Reality TV shows about making over struggling businesses and restaurants are popular. However, besides being entertaining, these shows highlight an essential detail that anyone in charge of a business should consider: a clean work area is characteristic of a successful business. To anyone else, that might sound silly, but as a business-minded person that looks for ways to improve and limit waste, you know it’s worth looking into professional commercial cleaning services in St. Charles.

Need more evidence that a clean office will improve your business? Read below to find out the surprising facts!

Reduces The Need To Replace Office Supplies and Equipment As Often

When grime is left to build up, it puts more wear-and-tear on your office equipment. Keyboard keys get stuck, the small hole on an office chair becomes a large rip, and countertops and flooring show many dark stains. Replacing items cost more than repairing them. With regular cleaning, professionals can catch these potential problems before they cost you more.

Since SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia specializes in both commercial restoration and cleaning, we could do the repairs for you as well!

Find And Fix Damage Before It Becomes A Serious Problem

Regular deep cleaning can help catch problems that would otherwise go unnoticed. Problems such as water and mold growth from hidden water leaks are best fixed in the early stages. The longer commercial water damage is allowed to continue, the higher the cost of repairs.

Water and mold damage restoration is also important for your employee’s health. Mold spores are a well-documented pollutant and may even be a violation of health codes. SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia is the local specialist for commercial mold remediation, and we can readily assist your business with all your unique cleaning needs.

Encourages Productivity

Above, we learned that neglecting cleanliness can make your workers more likely to get ill, but a dirty environment affects daily production too. A cluttered and grimy work area makes it difficult to concentrate on tasks. While it’s reasonable to ask your team members to keep their space clean, spending too much time on cleaning will pull them away from their necessary tasks. A better solution is to hire a local St. Charles commercial cleaning company to take care of this for you and let your employees get back to work.

Improves Customer Satisfaction

This benefit may seem out of place, but let me explain. A clean work area contributes to a happy and stress-free environment. Not surprisingly, when your team members are happy and satisfied with their job, they deliver better customer service. And when your customer service is top-notch, so are repeat business and referrals! 

Tempted to give this a try? Give us a call to perform our Showcase Premier Carpeting Cleaning service and witness firsthand the boost in morale and enthusiasm in your crew when they see and smell the clean!

Reflects Trustworthiness

When customers walk into your business, what impression are you giving them --an impression of an honest and successful business or a failing business in disrepair?

Dusty light fixtures, scuff marks on the tile flooring, and water-stained walls needing water damage restoration are subtle ways to lose your customer's trust. Put your best foot forward and keep your customer loyalty by hiring a local St. Charles commercial water damage restoration company that also does commercial cleaning.

By the way, these business improvements can be seen in various types of commercial and public buildings.

Whether you’re a school, church, restaurant, gym, or warehouse, you’ll find that a clean and hygienic environment will benefit you and your team. And yes – SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia performs commercial cleaning services for all of these businesses in Geneva and Batavia too! Call us today and let us help you improve your business.

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes and Avoid Flood Damage

2/24/2017 (Permalink)

Frozen Pipe

Although it’s been a mild winter, the Tri-City area of St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia is no stranger to freezing temperatures and the troubles that come with it --like flood damage from burst frozen pipes. Unfortunately, flooding due to frozen pipes is usually a significant portion of our emergency flood damage restoration services calls this time of year. And while we readily answer these calls for help, we would much rather aid you in trying to prevent such a disastrous event by showing you how to thaw frozen pipes gently.

However, the first part of avoiding a burst pipe is understanding why frozen pipes burst and cause water damage.

Why Frozen Pipes Burst

Frozen water expands, and although the expansion can be as little as 9 percent in volume, the pressure from this slight expansion is great. When measuring pounds per square inch (psi), the pressure inside your pipes can go from the normal 40 psi to 40,000! It's not hard to imagine why a pipe, even strong copper piping, would burst under these conditions.

Because pipes are under such extreme pressure, you must take extra precautions when attempting to thaw frozen pipes.

While many St. Charles residents successfully thaw frozen pipes on their own, we want to stress the importance of personal safety. Use your best judgment when it comes to doing DIY home repairs. Call a plumber when in doubt and call SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia for flood damage restoration.

Tell-Tale Signs of Frozen Pipes

• Exposed piping may have ice or frost surrounding it as the water on the inside begins to freeze.


• Reduced or no water flow from faucets. We recommend keeping one faucet to a slow stream. Flowing water does not readily freeze and any signs of diminished flow will serve as an immediate warning that your pipes are freezing.

Thawing Frozen Pipes

If you see any of the above signs, immediately turn up your home's thermostat. Open all the vents and doors to allow warm air to flow throughout your home.

Don't forget to open the cabinet doors under sinks! Pipes that are not covered by insulation are susceptible to freezing. Opening lower cabinet doors so that the warm air can reach those areas.

If you suspect a pipe is frozen because you see ice forming around it, you can attempt to heat the pipes directly. There are several ways to do this. However, SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia recommends these most frequently used methods:

• Using a hair dryer to blow warm air onto the pipe


• Soaking towels in warm water and wrapping it around the frozen pipe


• Placing a space heater in the room where the pipe has frozen. Never leave a space heater unattended

Also, ever use a direct flame on your pipes, such as those from a candle or blowtorch.

As silly as it may sound, knowing how to thaw frozen pipes is a necessary life skill for us in St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia. Icy weather in our community is not a "maybe" but a "when."

Save this blog post for future reference when your pipes freeze and keep our number in your cell when you emergency storm damage restoration.

Protecting Your Home from Icy Winter Storms

2/24/2017 (Permalink)

Ice Storm

You give your kids extra vitamin C at the first sign of a sniffle. Why? Because you want to protect the things that are dear to you. Similarly, you want to protect your home from the ravages of seasonal storms – especially ice storms. Ice storms are expected this time of year and that’s why St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia residents add ice storm coverage to their homeowners and renters insurance. We know this is a smart move too. As the Tri-City’s most helpful storm damage restoration company, we are all too familiar with the damaging effects of ice storms.

Helping you to protect your home from severe weather damage might seem a little odd –after all, residential and commercial storm damage restoration are our business. But our hearts run deeper than our pockets, and we want to help our neighbors protect their home and all that is dear to them, even if it means not needing our restoration services.

Your SERVPRO of St. Charles storm damage restoration experts have compiled their best tips to help you protect your home from the season’s storms. Don't miss out on our past blog posts for more expert advice on fire and mold damage prevention too!

Trim and Prune Trees Regularly

Even the healthiest and strongest of trees will break under the weight of ice. Broken tree limbs account for much of the storm damage from icy weather in St. Charles. A tree limb encased in a block of ice can weigh hundreds of pounds and can easily crash through roofs and even crush a car.

Look for Escaping Heat

Escaping heat is often the source of icicles and ice sheets on your roofs’ edge. More widely known as ice dams, these curious ice formations can cause quite a bit of damage to your roof. Melting ice runs down and refreezes creating ice dams that block the flow of water off of your roof.

This accumulated water is often the reason that we get called for water and mold damage restoration services.

Prevent devastating effects of water damage to your roof by finding the source of the escaping heat causing the melt in the first place. Common sources include the chimney and even incandescent lighting fixtures in the attic.

Keep Up With Regular Chimney Cleaning

If you use your fireplace often, then you likely clean the chimney every winter. However, if you light up the hearth only when the weather drops to freezing and skip the regular upkeep, you could be putting yourself, your family, and your home in danger. Chimneys that are not regularly cleaned and inspected are fire hazards. When icy weather is in the forecast, be sure to clean out the chimney before using it.

Take Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are very likely to burst and cause water damage. Preliminary steps to protect against frozen pipes include disconnecting hoses and closing valves to prevent water flow between the indoors and out. Keeping a water faucet turned on to a slow, but constant stream also aids in preventing burst pipes and the need for water damage restoration.

There are several preventative steps you can take to prevent icy weather damage, but for everything else, there’s SERVPRO of St. Charles.

SERVPRO is the most trusted name in storm damage restoration in St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia because we’ve worked hard to earn your trust. From flooded basements to soggy, collapsed ceilings to black mold creeping up your wall from water damage, SERVPRO has the expertise and eagerness to restore your home. Call us today and let us know how we can help.

Home Health: Call A Professional for Sewage Cleanup

1/10/2017 (Permalink)

There are several types of water damage, and while all need urgent attention, there are certain kinds that are considered an emergency. Floods due to sewage backup can be considered as urgent need.

Why is water damage from sewage different?

Water damage from sewage backups is an emergency because of the waste, viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens that pose serious health threats. It contaminates anything it touches, and it can even contaminate items it never touches because of the possibility of airborne toxins. Waste of all sorts, from storm runoff to chemical waste to dead animals to fecal matter permeate crevices and fill the air with a foul stench that is impossible to remove without professional water damage restoration.

Cleaning up water damage from a sewage backup is a biohazard, and anyone entering the contaminated area should have his or her vaccinations up-to-date, especially hepatitis B.

It’s clear that water damage from sewage backups are both unsanitary and unpleasant –but there is no need for you to do the messy clean up when there are professionals that are trained and certified to do it. Learn more about the bio-hazardous water restoration services of St. Charles SERVPRO.

One of the key differences of your locally owned SERVPRO is that we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Sewage backups happen at the most inconvenient times, and we are available at any time to begin flood damage restoration services.

After an inspection, an initial cleaning plan is clearly explained to you. Within hours of your call, our trained technicians begin the simultaneous water damage and mold remediation process that includes removing moisture and filth while saving your items from further harm.

Whether the bio-hazardous black water contains pathogens or chemicals –or even a combination of both –SERVPRO of St. Charles has the equipment and expertise needed to clean up the contamination. This sort of clean up also needs to be taken care of in ways that do not pollute other living areas or the environment, and St. Charles SERVPRO is in complete compliance with all local laws regarding biohazard disposal.

After the black water and filth is removed, we get to work on carefully sanitizing, disinfecting, and deodorizing the area. No area is neglected when it comes to making sure your home is as safe and healthy as it was before the flood damage.

Water damage from sewage is a stinky and unsanitary business, and one that is best left to trained professionals. Water damage restoration in Batavia, Geneva, and St. Charles is what we at SERVPRO do every day. We’ve been a familiar household name in water and mold damage restoration since 1967. SERVPRO has the legacy and track record you can trust to get the job done right the first time.

Call us today and let us know how we can best serve you in all your home and commercial water damage restoration needs!

Home Care: 7 Ways to Storm Proof Your Home

1/10/2017 (Permalink)

Winter officially began December 21st, but our Illinois Tri-city area has already experienced its first seasonal storms. And with these torrential rains, we can expect flood damage. Water damage from severe weather can add up quickly. Even when your flood insurance covers those expenses, the personal costs of stress and displacement is also high. However, there are steps that you can take to prevent or minimize the effects of storm damage in St. Charles.

Proudly serving the Tri-city area of St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia, SERVPRO has seen and dealt with every sort of storm damage restoration problem. And while it may seem counterintuitive, we hope to prevent –as much as possible—your need for our restoration services.

Use these tips to stormproof your home and for everything else, rest assured that St. Charles SERVPRO is here to take care of it for you.

1. Review Your Insurance Policy

The worst time to find out you’re underinsured is after the damage has occurred. Homeowners often mistakenly think that water damage and flood damage are the same, but when it comes to insurance coverage, these two are very different. Talk to your insurance agent and make sure that you understand your coverage. Asking questions and presenting scenarios to your agent is also helpful in putting your mind at ease that you have the best coverage for your needs.

2. Clean Up Landscaping

Remove rotted or diseased limbs from trees. These weakened branches need but a strong gust of wind to fall through the roof. Patio furniture can also fly about during a storm, causing damage to the furniture and your house if the furniture slams into it. Consider storing patio furniture and landscaping decor for the season.

3. Reinforce The Garage Door

The garage door can be a weak point by design. The seal where the door meets the floor is not tight, allowing for water to flood in. Standard garage doors are also ill-equipped to stand up to the violent forces of a storm. Consider replacing your old garage door with one made for withstanding the elements or at least reinforce it with a brace.

4. Clear the Gutters and Downspouts

It’s not the most pleasant of home upkeep tasks, but cleaning out debris from the gutters can make a big difference in storm damage prevention. Gutters are designed to help water flow away from your home, preventing flooding and the need for flood damage restoration. Keep them clear and repair any cracks you may find as you clean out the debris.

5. Inspect Your Roof

Every 3-4 months, inspect your roof for damaged tiles. Pay close attention to the flashing around chimneys, vents, and at roof joints for curling edges or cracks. If you notice any damage, call a licensed roofing company immediately. If you see any discoloration or dripping on your ceiling, you most likely already have water damage. Give us a call, and we’ll correct the damage quickly.

6. Look Over The Windows

Windows are yet another stormy weather weakness. Flying debris through the window accounts for most of the damage. However, cracks and damaged seams where the window and wall meet are also responsible. To help prevent water from bursting through your window, install storm shutters and repair those weakened joints where water can leak in.

7. Keep Your Local SERVPRO Contact Information Handy

Even with the best of efforts, flood damage restoration will likely be a service you need. St. Charles SERVPRO is on call all day, every day. We know that the best way to prevent extensive water damage to act quickly. But our fast response is dependent on your quick action to make the call.

For the quickest response, call us –St. Charles SERVPRO, the storm damage restoration professionals.

Home Heating Fire Safety Tips

12/9/2016 (Permalink)

Heating with a fireplace

Temperatures are dropping in the tri-city area of St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia, but home heater usage is rising –and so are the incidents of house fires! National studies and our professional fire damage restoration experience have shown that heating units are the number one cause of house fires during the winter months. Of course, there is no ideal time for a house fire, but in the holiday season, it seems especially bitter.

They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and we at St. Charles SERVPRO couldn’t agree more. Enjoy a safe holiday season in the warmth of your home with these home heating fire safety tips.

Check The Unit

At the beginning of the winter months, check your space heater, fireplace, or another heating device to make sure it is clean and in good working order. Heating units that have been in storage all year accumulate a thick layer of lint and dust that can block ventilation, potentially causing the unit to overheat and ignite. Older units can also have worn or frayed wiring.

Poorly maintained fireplaces and chimneys are also to blame for many household fires. Broken chimney flues, layers of soot, and flying embers are all causes of fire damage in St. Charles homes. Have a professional clean and inspect your fireplace and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

The “3-Foot” Rule

Keep a 3-foot area around your home heating unit entirely clear. This true for flammable items such as furniture as well as for passers-by. Designate the 3-foot area as “walk-free” all the way around to avoid knocking over the unit or tripping over cords.

Watch Children

The 3-foot Rule should also be a kid-free zone. Do not allow children to sit or play near the heating unit. Also, never leave children unattended while the heating unit is in use.

Check Your Smoke Alarm

Test your smoke alarm at least once a month by pressing the test button and be sure to place them in areas where you use the heating unit. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) also arecommends that you replace smoke alarms every 10 years.

Turn It Off Before Heading To Bed

Although it is tempting to keep household heaters, furnaces, and fireplaces on during the balmy nights, it’s safer to turn them off. The potential for fire damage and the risk of fatalities rises significantly with unattended heating sources.

The joys of chilly nights and holiday family gatherings at home can suddenly be cut short by a house fire. Whether it originates from a heater or another household source, we make your fire damaged home merry and bright again. We are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week –yes, even Christmas Day –ready to begin the smoke, water, and fire damage restoration in St. Charles and surrounding neighborhoods.

Explore our blog for more tips on how to keep your home smoke, water, mold, and fire damage-free. For additional information about our home and commercial fire damage restoration services, click on the fire damage tab on the menu above or call us at (630) 377-7062.

Fire Damage Recovery

12/9/2016 (Permalink)

House Fire

Never is the desire for an ordinary day stronger than the one day that everything is incredibly and heartbreakingly out of the ordinary –like when a fire devastates your home. We understand the urgency. SERVPRO has been coming to the aid of those needing fire damage restoration in St. Charles for some time. When SERVPRO first opened its doors in 1967, we made a pledge to our neighbors nationwide to be available day or night and to have the fastest response time.

Over 60 years later, St. Charles SERVPRO continues the legacy of dedicated customer service in the St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia area. Although every situation is unique, there are some things that similar in every in fire and smoke damage restoration job.

The first is that the destruction does not stop with the extinguished flames. Corrosive residue like soot and ashes continue to etch, stain, and permanently warp anything it touches. Another thing to expect is that there will be other damages to address too. Besides the fire and smoke damage, there will also be much water damage –and wherever there is water damage, mold damage is sure to follow.

SERVPRO’s ability to remediate and restore your home quickly is another similarity you can expect. Below is an example of a typical timeline to fire damage recovery:

• Within one hour of your initial call, we will contact you to arrange an immediate service call

• Within four hours, we are at your home beginning the initial mitigation steps

• Within 8 hours of coming to your site, we will provide you with a verbal overview of the work that must be done to restore your fire-damaged home

We work alongside your insurance company, keeping open dialogue about the services we are providing, documenting your losses, and providing them with the necessary documentation. This keeps delays at a minimum, shortening the fire damage recovery timeline.

As soon as we get the all clear, your fire damage recovery team gets to work. You will notice that we concentrate most of our effort on the clean up. This is because poorly done fire and water damage restoration will lead to having to do it again. That adds to the recovery timeline and could potentially cost more money.

Once we finish the cleanup, we focus our attention on the complete fire damage restoration of your home. Items that require a specialized environment are taken to the proper facilities, meanwhile, the ground crew continues their work at the site.

From the agents working with your insurance company to the SERVPRO technicians working in your home, SERVPRO’s response and work completion timeline is unmatched.

No matter the extent of the fire damage to your home, the faster we are on the job, the faster you are on your way to those wonderfully ordinary days. Keep our phone number on your cell and rest assured that our familiar bright green van is on it’s way to help within minutes of your call.

For a more detailed description of our smoke, fire, mold, and water damage restoration services, please explore our website. Alternatively, you can give us a call. St. Charles SERVPRO customer service agents are always happy to assist.

Every Minute Counts

9/8/2016 (Permalink)

Air movers during restoration

St. Charles Home Health: Every Minute Counts With Home Restoration

When you’re surprised by water damage to your home, whether from a natural disaster or a leaking water heater, it's critical that you act fast. Salvaging your personal items and beginning the water damage restoration process as soon as possible will help to minimize damage to your home, and save you time and money.

In as little as one day, standing water begins to harbor harmful germs and mold that can cause irreversible harm to your home and belongings making them unsalvageable –remember, typically restoring belongings costs less than replacing them. But with one phone call, your personal restoration team will take action and begin to minimize the damage even before the actual restoration begins.

Here are but some of the ways SERVPRO of Batavia, Geneva, and St. Charles work fast to minimize water damage to your home

Fast Response Time

Within one hour of contacting us, we'll arrange to meet you at your home to assess the damage. Within four hours, we're on site, beginning the mitigation process. Within as little as eight hours, a full report of the recommended water damage restoration services is ready for you and your insurance adjuster.

Begin the Water Extraction Process

Using powerful truck-mounted pumps, we extract standing water and moisture from water-soaked carpeting and furniture. We also remove flood-damaged drywall and carpeting as these items are prone to grow mold. Dehumidifying with industrial fans and commercial dehumidifiers ensure that every last bit of moisture is extracted from the flooded area. Mold damage is a likely to occur if this step is not done properly.

Disinfect and Sanitize

Depending on the type of water that flooded your home, our team will use antifungal, antibacterial disinfecting treatments to sanitize your home. However we don't stop there -- we also use air scrubbers, deodorizers, and fogging equipment to cleanse the air of mold spores and the lingering smell of mildew or sewage.

Work Rigorously To Restore Your Personal Items

Similar to acting quickly in your home, St. Charles SERVPRO moves fast to salvage as much as possible of your personal belongings. We understand that saving your personal items and keepsakes is just as important as restoring your home. Calling us as soon as flood damage occurs allows us to evaluate each item, giving you the best chance of saving your keepsakes. With a keen eye, your SERVPRO team reviews each item with you. Many satisfied customers are surprised at how fast and thoroughly belongings are returned to their original state.

Quick action is critical to preventing further water damage, and nobody is faster to any size disaster in the TriCity area than St. Charles SERVPRO.  We are the preferred water damage restoration provider, and we work directly with your home insurance company to accelerate the claim filing process. When faced with the emergency of an unexpected flood, you can count on us to minimize the damage and make your house look as if it never happened. Call us today and put our speed to the test!

Leaky Air Conditioners

7/8/2016 (Permalink)

air conditioner

Batavia Home Care: Preventing Water Damage From Leaky Air Conditioners

Leaking air conditioners can cause water damage and mold growth if it’s not corrected early. The best way to prevent water damage from air is to do regular check-ups of the system. From visual inspections to simple maintenance, Bavatia water damage from leaking attic or rooftop installed a/c units can be avoided with these easy-care tips:

1. Inspect the Overflow Pan

Located under the main a/c unit, the overflow pan catches any condensation that is not being drained out the condensate drain line. You’ll want to inspect this pan for any holes and cracks. If the overflow pan has any cracks, you can try to repair it with epoxy or simply replace the overflow pan.  Finding water in the pan is normal, however, it can also be a sign of a clogged condensate drain line.

2. Clean the Condensate Drain Line

This pipe can get clogged with anything from insects to mold, but most often from algae that naturally accumulates from use. An easy way to keep it clear is to pour a small amount of household bleach every 4-6 months to inhibit algae growth. Using a funnel, slowly pour about a cup of bleach down the condensate drain line. If the bleach is not going down the pipe easily, this could be a sign of an already clogged pipe. You can try to suck out the clog with a wet/dry vac, or call a professional to do a thorough inspection of the condensate drain line for you.

3. Inspect the Air Filter

Dirty air filters can block airflow over the evaporator coil. This blockage creates ice to form on the coil, that will eventually thaw and drip when the a/c is not in use. Small drips like this can be overlooked if regular inspections are not made. A slow drip is a silent disaster in the making as it slowly soaks the insulation, wooden beams, and drywall. Mold growth is sure to follow, further weakening a damaging your home.

Regular check-ups of your a/c unit can help prevent and catch leaks before they become a big problem, but some leaks may be missed. Be sure to check for signs of water damage and mold growth around your air conditioning system such as:

•          Blistering paint

•          Discoloration on the walls or ceiling

•          Drips or condensation on the walls or ceiling

•          Mildew odor

•          Sagging ceiling

•          Walls spongy to the touch

If you are in need of water damage restoration or would like moisture levels in your home checked, SERVPRO of Batavia is ready to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  

Advanced Flood Restoration

7/8/2016 (Permalink)

air movers in Barnes and Noble

St. Charles Home Care: Advanced Flood Restoration Services

Flood restoration may seem as simple as extracting standing water and drying waterlogged items; however, there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye. Specialized equipment in the hands of trained technicians can make a disastrous event, like extensive St. Charles flood damage, seem like it never happened. Advanced flood restoration services can:

• Detect potential problems before they arise

• Reveal damage that is invisible to the naked eye

• Help the technician do the restorative job more thoroughly and quickly

All of which help you get back to your home faster --without the worry that improper flood restoration will be a problem in the future.

Like it Never Happened

Not only is St. Charles SERVPRO faster to any size disaster, but we do such a thorough job in restoring your home that it’ll be like it never happened. We do this by hiring the best service-oriented staff and training them in the trusted SERVPRO-standard for water damage mitigation and restoration.

Moisture Detection

Water damage can occur from both direct water exposure and humidity. St. Charles SERVPRO use meters and sensors to detect moisture levels in carpeting, fabrics, and even wood to ensure that they are at healthy levels.

Measuring moisture and temperature levels with a thermohygrometer aid the technician in getting precise readings in humidity, dew point, and vapor pressure. These advanced moisture detection techniques can reveal hidden water damage and can lower your overall recovery cost.

Water Extraction

Whether the area space is large or small, with standing water or high humidity, SERVPRO has the right water extractor for the job. Truck-mounted and industrial strength portable extractors remove water from floors, carpeting, and upholstery. Specialized dehumidifiers, called desiccant dehumidifiers, lower moisture levels in the environment. This helps to reduce the damaging effects of high humidity and increases the rate of natural water evaporation.

Disinfecting and Deodorizing

With penetrating atomizers to sanitizes and deliver powerful fungicides, SERVPRO of St. Charles takes preventative steps toward protecting your home from mold infestation – a complication from improper water damage repair. Thermal foggers deodorize the air, ridding any last trace of musty or sewage odors.

With SERVPRO’s water damage repair and restoration service, you can trust that you’re working with the best. Our resources include over 140,000 pieces of specialized equipment, the support of over 1,650 SERVPRO franchises nationwide, and hundreds of hours of advanced training. Give us a call today and let us get the job done right—the first time.

Mold

6/9/2016 (Permalink)

attic

St. Charles Home Care: What is the Difference Between Mold Remediation and Mold Removal?

At a first glance, mold removal and mold remediation may seem like the same service. However, they are very different. Generally speaking, companies that offer “mold removal” do just that−remove visible mold infested areas. Mold remediation services are more extensive and thorough, and in the long run, will save you money. Read on to learn the winning difference of mold remediation over mold removal.

Using advanced technology, St. Charles SERVPRO detects mold infestations and the water source that is feeding the infestation. Mold spores are opportunists, and if the water source is not found and corrected, the mold is sure to return.

Because mold can spread quickly throughout the home, additional measures must be taken to prevent this from happening. Mold remediation services from Geneva SERVPRO include containing the mold with barriers and negative air pressure to ensure that mold spores do not spread to other areas while the clean up is in process. Air scrubbers may also be used to filter the air of excess mold spores.

Carpeting, drywall, and large household items that are permanently damaged by mold need to be disposed of correctly and in a manner approved by the city. Mold remediation services include the disposal of large mold and water damaged items.

While mold removal services stop when all visible signs of mold are taken out of the house, mold remediation services work to restore your home. Using powerful antifungal and disinfectant cleansers, Geneva SERVPRO effectively gets rid of remaining fungal colonies. Household items such as couches and area rugs may be taken to a secondary treatment facility where they can be cleaned in a controlled environment.

Mold damaged areas in the home might need to be rebuilt. Remediation services save you the trouble of finding a trusted contractor by offering commonly needed home restoration services. St. Charles SERVPRO can repair and install carpeting, tiled flooring, and drywall among many other home repair needs as part of the remediation process.

SERVPRO of Geneva also prides itself in restoring some of the toughest cases of mold damage to household and personal items. Musty odors and mold-stained items can be restored to their original state with SERVPRO’s mold remediation service.

Out of sight, out of mind can be true for some things in life, but not for mold. Correcting mold damage to your home takes more than just removing the “visible signs of mold”; it takes remediation. SERVPRO has been the leader in home restoration and mold remediation for over 40 years, and we proudly invite you to compare St. Charles mold remediation services to mold removal.

 

ODORS

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

ODORS

St. Charles Home Health: How to Rid Your Home of Lingering Odors

The scent of smoke is one of the most difficult odors to remove in the home. Whether the odor is from the cigars from poker night, a small kitchen fire, or even a large home fire, the lingering scent of smoke can penetrate deep into your furnishings, carpet, and even the paint on the walls. The scent of smoke, like all scents, is made of tiny particles. These microscopic particles easily penetrate fabrics and find their way into crevices, overwhelming your home with the unpleasant, and sometimes irritating, odor of smoke. Follow these steps for do-it-yourself smoke odor removal.

If the smoke smell still lingers or if the job is much larger than you can handle, St. Charles SERVPRO will effectively and happily do all the hard work for you.

First Steps

Open windows and turn on fans to air out the room. In the next step, you will be working with vinegar and water solution is excellent for getting rid of odors, however, it can be irritating to eyes and nose. Increasing circulation will help to dissipate the vinegar scent while it does its job of eliminating smoke odors.

Cleaning Hard Surfaces

If the lingering odor is from a fire, you may also notice that there is discoloration around the area where the fire was located. Vinyl, plastic, and wood surfaces that are discolored or show other signs of fire and smoke damage, they will most likely need to be replaced or require professional cleaning to eliminate the smoke residue that is causing the odor.

For all other hard surfaces, try a natural deodorizing solution of 3 parts white vinegar to 1 part water. Use gloved hands, cloth towels, and a large bucket filled with this mixture to wipe hard surfaces. You will find that the solution will become dirty quickly and will need to be replaced often.

While a quick wipe down is sufficient for the vinegar solution to do its work, it is important to be meticulous about wiping all hard surfaces, from floors to ceiling, to be the most effective in a DIY smoke odor removal.

Cleaning Fabric and Carpet

For fabric items that are washer safe, try adding 2 cups of white vinegar to the wash to get rid of the smoky scent. Use cold water and a low heat or fluff dry as heat can sometimes reactivate the smoke smell.

If that does not work or if the item is too big to fit into the washer, such as draperies and area carpets, take them to the dry cleaner instead.

For carpets and fabric-covered furniture, sprinkle with generous amounts of baking soda and let it sit for 30-60 minutes. Using a HEPA filter vacuum, vacuum up the baking soda and smoke particles.

If after following these steps you find that the smoke odor remains or if the smoke damage calls for a thorough professional cleaning, Batavia SERVPRO are the experts in deodorization and odor removal for both inside and outside the home. Using time-tested and industry-approved techniques, SERVPRO will eliminate every last trace of odor and smoke damage.

What Workers Are In Your Home?

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

IICRC CERTIFIED

St. Charles Home Care: What it Means to be IICRC Certified and Why is Matters

IICRC stands for Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. The IICRC is a non-profit organization that has set rigorous standards for home and commercial inspection, cleaning, and restoration industries and they work in partnership with trades both in the US and around the world. A business that is IICRC certified understands that customer service, integrity, and continued education are an essential part of the home cleanup and restoration process.

Read on to learn more about IICRC certification standards and how SERVPRO of St. Charles uses it to serve you better.

Integrity
IICRC requires a business to present all information honestly and accurately. We also maintain liability insurance that protects both you and our team in case there is an accident. In the unlikely event you have a complaint, SERVPRO of St. Charles has a written complaint policy to ensure that disputes are resolved fairly. IICRC certification also means that any technicians at work restoring your home after water, fire, or smoke damage, has gone through extensive training and has passed all tests. Read more about the training and continued education below.

Continued Education
Initial training and certification are comprehensive, and our team at Batavia SERVPRO have successfully completed:
• Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Carpet Cleaning Technician
• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

IICRC requires business with this trusted certification to have their technicians continue their education. This ensures that they are up-to-date with the best cleaning and restoration methods including fire and water damage, and mold removal. Batavia SERVPRO exceeds this standard by offering additional SERVPRO franchise training as well as continued education opportunities from insurance adjusters and real estate professionals.

When you choose a home and commercial restoration business that is IICRC certified, you know that you are selecting a business that you can trust to do their best. Certification from the IICRC is a rigorous process, one that not all restoration companies are willing to do, but SERVPRO of St. Charles aims to be not only the best in home restoration but also the most trusted.

Water Tips

3/8/2016 (Permalink)

St. Charles Home Care: Minimizing the Effects of Water Damage

From cleaning out the gutters to inspecting the roof, keeping your home in good repair is vital in preventing complications from water damage. However, not all disasters can be avoided. Pipes bursting, sump pumps breaking down, sewers backing up, and creeks overflowing after heavy rain are all causes of significant water damage in St. Charles. If your home has been affected by flooding, take heart; there are steps that you can take to minimize the effects of water damage to your home.

Shut Off Water Source
If the flooding is caused by a leaking home appliance or fixture such as a dishwasher or toilet, look for the water shutoff valve that is associated with the water supply for that appliance. If it cannot be located, or it does not stop the water from leaking, it may be necessary to shut off the main water supply for the home.

Check the Sump Pump
If you suspect that the flooding is caused by a faulty sump pump, inspect it carefully. First, make sure that it is plugged in. Also, check the fuse box to see if the circuit breaker has tripped. Next, inspect the drain for blockage or a float that is stuck. If the sump pump is still not in working order after reviewing these common problems, it should be replaced right away.

Call Your Insurance Company
Report your claim as soon as possible. If it is after-hours or if your insurer cannot be reached, it recommended that you contact a home remediation provider to begin the restoration process immediately. St. Charles SERVPRO offers a stress-free claims service that works with your insurance company to mitigate the restoration process.

Protect Your Valuables
If it is safe to do so, move valuable items and furniture to a dry and secure place. Remember that standing water and electrical appliances are extremely dangerous, and you should never attempt to enter an area that is not safe. Brackish water, such as that from overflowing creeks and sewers, can also cause serious health problems. After the flooding has subsided, the effects of water damage continue with mold and mildew. Remember that even those household items that have been damaged by moisture or mold in St Charlescan often still be restored by professionals.

The most vital step in minimizing the effects of water damage to your home is that you seek help from home restoration professionals. St. Charles SERVPRO is known as the restoration experts, and we are available 24 hours a day to aid you in restoring your home and valuables after water damage.

Water Situations

2/4/2016 (Permalink)

Hardwood floor drying using Injecta Dry equipment

St. Charles Water Damage Remediation Specialists Can Restore Your Property

Broken pipes, backed up sewer systems, failed sump pumps, fires, and Mother Nature can all bring unwanted water into your home. The SERVPRO team of St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia stand at the ready with the tools and expertise you need when water damages your home or business. We understand the devasting characteristics of these emergencies; remember to protect your health and your property from further harm, the water, debris, bacteria, and residual moisture must be rectified immediately.

We view ourselves as integral community members and in the event of emergencies and water damage in St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia, you can rest assured we are here to help. After just a short phone call, our team will arrive on site and work quickly to restore your property to its original state while preventing further damage due to the excess water and moisture. When disaster strikes and you experience the devastating effects of St. Charles water damage, call us at (630) 377-7062 immediately. We are available 24x7.

Prevent Structural Damage

Don’t wait to contact us until the next day after experiencing water damage as standing water causes significant structural and mechanical damage to property, virtually immediately. This includes the foundation, support structures, drywall, HVAC, electronic equipment, electrical systems, and plumbing. Additionally, standing water, whether fresh from a flood or black water from the sewer can stain and ruin furniture, clothing, and treasured mementos. The best and often the most cost-effective solution is to call SERPRO for your Batavia water damage needs.   Our team will arrive promptly and start to work inventorying items damaged as well as the extent of the structural and mechanical damage, and come up with a plan to restore your property.

Prevent Mold Growth

SERVPRO’s second goal is to prevent mold growth in your water damaged property and in your possessions. Mold is not only unsightly, but it can permanently damage and stain as well as have detrimental effects on your health and your family’s health. With specialized, professional equipment that includes vacuums, pumps, dehumidifiers and high-velocity fans, we can remove all traces of moisture from your home. By acting quickly and eliminating the moist environment that mold and mildew need to thrive, SERVPRO begins the restoration process and can return your home to its pre-damaged state.

The Professionals Of SERVPRO Are Here Help

While it may seem more cost-effective to attempt to do the extensive work on your own, eventually it can be more expensive if the job is not done correctly. Water damage in Geneva can be reversed, but only if you act swiftly and call professional water damage restoration experts that are equipped with the best industry tools, and have the training and expertise you need during this stressful time. All of SERVPRO technicians are IICRC-certified and offer 24/7 emergency services to ensure that your water damage is resolved as quickly as possible.

We provide Water Damage Cleanup and Repair in the following communities: 

Locally Owned Geneva, IL Company with Disaster Recovery Teams

11/19/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia Disaster Recovery Team in action.

When Should You Call A St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia Water Damage Specialist?

These days, many homeowners are interested in keeping their residential property in optimal condition. It's important that you know when it's advantageous to attain professional maintenance services. There are several situations in which attaining a professional Geneva water damage services can prove necessary and significant. Here are several of them:

1. Mold Remediation
In the case that you discover the presence of mold on your property, it's important that you contact a water damage specialist who can offer fast, efficient remediation services. If you do not, you may make your home susceptible to structural damage. Failure to attain mold remediation services can also endanger your health. In addition to offering mold remediation services, water damage specialists can provide you with mold detection services.

2. Water Removal
In the event that your property is subjected to a flood or big leak, it's important to contact a Geneva water damage specialist. The expert will come prepared with all of the equipment necessary to eradicate the problem.

3. Drying
Following a flood or leak, it's imperative that you dry out the areas impacted by water. When you call a team of water damage specialists, they will use high power drying fans to expedite and optimize the drying process. This work is effective in preventing further damage to the structure of your property.

4. Deodorizing
After Geneva water damage has impacted your home, you may note that the property acquires a strange smell that won't go away. If this happens, you should contact a water damage specialist. These individuals are trained to identify and subsequently eradicate all unpleasant, unwanted odors.

5. Restoration
Once your property is subjected to issues such as a flood or mildew accumulation, you will be in need of restoration services. The restoration process includes all components related to the restoration of your home, including cleaning and drying.

6. Sanitation Work
At some point, most homeowners experience sanitation challenges with respect to their plumbing, dishwashers, septic systems, and other household appliances. When these issues arise, a professional water damage specialist can provide you with the restorative services necessary to get your home back in optimal condition.

7. Damage Assessment
When you experience a water damage issue, it's important to have a water damage specialist assess the damage. This will enable you to attain a clear understanding of all the work that will be necessary to restore your residential property to its original condition.

Conclusion 
If you want to keep your residential property in excellent condition, knowing when to call a water damage specialist is important. It's also crucial that you know which team of professionals to call. If you want fast, friendly service that results in the complete restoration of your property, choose SERVPRO. We respond immediately in emergency situations and employ a team of professionals with advanced training in monitoring the drying process until it is complete. We're ready to assist you immediately, so call us at (630) 377-7062 and let's get started.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia is locally owned and operated—so we are part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to large scale disasters. 

We are here in St. Charles, Illinois and are ready to help you. Just call us. (630) 377-7062

Fire Damage St. Charles, IL - When the flames are gone, soot and smoke can continue to cause fire damage

11/12/2015 (Permalink)

You may be tempted to get the restoration process started by cleaning things yourself. This is not recommended because it may only make it worse.

Smart Steps Toward St Charles Fire Damage Restoration

Fire damage to your St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia home or office is devastating, but you should not wait to take steps towards restoring your property. Thanks to your fire alarm system, everyone got out of the building, but now you have to deal with your burned and heat-damaged possessions. When the flames are gone, soot and smoke can continue to cause fire damage. This is why it is important to start restoration as soon as you can. 

The First Step

You should make notes about what items are ruined or damaged and take photographs too. You’ll be contacting your insurance company and a restoration contractor, so you want to be sure about your circumstances. Misunderstandings are common, but if you have photos and notes, you’ll be in a better position to know the extent of the St Charles fire damage and what needs to be restored or replaced. This should be done within hours after the fire is extinguished.

Once you have a clear picture of the damage, call your insurance company. Hopefully, you can do this the next day. It is important to call them as soon as possible, so they will send an insurance adjustor to your home or office quickly. 

Call a Reputable Fire Damage Restoration Contractor

When searching for a local cleaning and restoration contractor, make sure they are Institution of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified. These professionals have been trained in the latest restoration technology and have health and safety certification. They will have experience in a wide range of fire damage St.Charles restoration projects. You should also ask for proof or the proper licenses and insurance. 

You may be able to locate a restoration contractor who also does reconstruction. SERVPRO of St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia, can be your one stop company. This will save you a lot of time and money. They will first board up your home or office so vandals or thieves cannot enter. They will also work directly with your insurance company to create a restoration plan that will return your property to its pre-fire condition. They’ll inform your adjustor about the items that can be cleaned and restored and the ones that need to be replaced. Your restoration contractor should also be able to safely store some of your possessions during recovery. 

Fire damage includes much more than burning. There can also be extensive St Charles water damage when the fire department puts out the fire as well as smoke damage that can go into every part of the house including places that were untouched by the fire. 

Let the Professionals Handle It

You may be tempted to get the restoration process started by cleaning things yourself. This is not recommended because it may only make it worse. Some things to avoid are:

• Wiping walls, ceiling tiles or any absorbent material
• Reusing carpet and upholstery that have smoke damage
• Using any food item including canned goods that were exposed to heat and smoke
• Turning on your computer, TV, or electrical appliances before they have been professionally cleaned

The restoration process after a fire can be stressful, but if you have a certified professional handling your insurance company and the construction, there is a good chance you’ll have a full recovery.

SERVPRO St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia

11/10/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia

St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia Water Damage Removal Tips

10/28/15 

Emergency Water Removal Tips for St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia

Water damage can be quite frustrating in your St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia home. However, you should not panic if your home has suffered water damage. You should start taking the steps that are necessary for eliminating the water. Water can cause serious damage. Removal is of the utmost importance.

There are steps that you can do to address emergency flooding in your home. Below is a list of emergency water removal tips:

Address The Source

Find the source.  Once you find the source, it is important to act quickly and remove it to mitigate the water damage. The earlier you do this, the better. Plumbing problems are one of the most common causes of flooding. If there is a burst pipe or other plumbing issue, then the problem will need to be addressed as soon as possible.

Flooding caused by weather requires swift action to attempt prevent the water from entering your home and creating water damage. For example, you can divert the drainage away from your home by using sandbags.

Be Safe

Your personal safety is of paramount importance.  You need to take all of the necessary precautions to remove water safely. One of the best things that you can do to keep yourself safe is to turn off the main power source in your home. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity. You will need to keep yourself safe from electric shock while you are trying to remove water from your home.

Keep The Home Aerated

There probably will be a large amount of moisture left inside of your home after you get rid of the water. Moisture can ruin your home. That is why you will need to aerate your home to start to eliminate the moisture. Keeping your windows open will aid in the drying process, if that is possible.

Contact SERVPRO Professional Water Restoration Company.

Your flooding issues may be beyond your control. It is wise to call in the expert professionals to save your home--SERVPRO which is IICRC certified. This company will make sure that the problem will be addressed quickly and in the most convenient way.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia  is locally owned and operated—so we are part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to large scale disasters.

 We are here in St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia and are ready to help you.  Just call us.  (630) 377-7062

SERVPRO of St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia

10/29/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St.Charles/Geneva/Batavia 

Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business. 

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of St. Charles/Geneva/Batavia. 

If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today!