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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.