Elevate Your Remodeling Experience with SERVPRO Construction Services as Your General Contractor

3/26/2024 (Permalink)

New construction is a SERVPRO expertise.

Embarking on an extensive remodeling project can be an exciting yet daunting endeavor. From planning and design to construction and completion, countless decisions must be made, and tasks must be coordinated.

That's where SERVPRO Construction Services shines as your trusted partner in transforming your vision into reality.

Here's why hiring SERVPRO as your general contractor for a large remodeling job is the smart choice:

1. Comprehensive Expertise

SERVPRO Construction Services brings a wealth of expertise to every remodeling project. As your general contractor, we oversee every aspect of the job, from initial consultation to final walkthrough. Our team includes skilled professionals in construction, design, project management, and more, ensuring that every detail is handled carefully and precisely.

2. Streamlined Communication

Clear and effective communication is essential for the success of any remodeling project. SERVPRO is the central point of contact for all parties involved, including subcontractors, vendors, and clients. We provide regular updates and progress reports, keeping you informed every step of the way and ensuring that your project stays on track and budget.

3. Quality Craftsmanship

At SERVPRO, we take pride in our commitment to quality craftsmanship. Whether it's a kitchen renovation, bathroom remodel, or whole-house makeover, we approach every project with attention to detail and a dedication to excellence. From the foundation to the finishing touches, we use premium materials and proven techniques to deliver results that stand the test of time.

4. Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to customer satisfaction. We understand that your home is your sanctuary, and we treat it with the same care and respect that we would our own.

From concept to completion, SERVPRO Construction Services is dedicated to ensuring that your remodeling experience is positive, stress-free, and exceeds your expectations.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward transforming your vision into reality with SERVPRO by your side.

Act Fast: The Importance of Water Mitigation When Damage is Discovered

3/26/2024 (Permalink)

Hire an experienced, equipped water mitigation company to restore your home or business.

Water damage can strike unexpectedly, wreaking havoc on your home or business and causing extensive structural and property damage.

Whether from burst pipes, leaking appliances, or severe weather events, swift and effective mitigation is key to minimizing the impact of water damage.

Here's why acting fast is crucial when water damage is discovered:

Preventing Further Damage

Water has a knack for spreading quickly and seeping into every nook and cranny of your property. The longer water sits untreated, the greater the potential for further damage. Moisture can weaken building materials, compromise structural integrity, and promote mold growth, leading to costly repairs and health hazards down the line.

Preserving Belongings and Valuables

Water damage doesn't discriminate - it can damage everything from furniture and electronics to personal belongings. Acting fast with water mitigation efforts can help salvage and preserve your belongings, minimizing losses and reducing the emotional toll of water damage. Professional mitigation techniques such as water extraction, drying, and content restoration can help salvage items that water may otherwise irreparably damage.

Mitigating Health Risks

Stagnant water is a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other harmful pathogens that pose serious health risks to you and your loved ones. Exposure to mold spores and contaminated water can lead to respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and other health problems.

Preventing Mold Growth

Mold can begin to grow within as little as 24-48 hours after water damage occurs. Once mold takes hold, it can spread rapidly and become a persistent problem if not addressed promptly. You can reduce the risk of mold infestation, associated health concerns, and property damage by tackling water damage early.

Restoring Peace of Mind

Professional mitigation teams have the expertise, equipment, and resources to quickly and effectively address water damage, allowing you to focus on restoring and restoring your life.

If you discover water damage in your home or business, don't wait - contact SERVPRO's professional water mitigation service immediately to protect your property and well-being. 

After the Flames: The Crucial Role of Fire Mitigation in Minimizing Damage

3/26/2024 (Permalink)

Fire mitigation goes beyond what you see.

The aftermath of a fire can be devastating, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair. However, the journey towards recovery begins the moment the flames are extinguished.

One of the most critical steps in the restoration process is fire mitigation – the immediate actions taken to minimize further damage to the property.

Here's why fire mitigation is essential and why SERVPRO's fire restoration experts should begin as soon as the flames are put out:

Preventing Secondary Damage

While the flames may be put out, the damage left in their wake continues to escalate if left unaddressed. Smoke, soot, and ash can quickly spread throughout the property, staining surfaces, corroding materials, and causing further deterioration. Additionally, the water used to extinguish the fire can lead to water damage and mold growth if not adequately mitigated. Fire mitigation efforts such as prompt cleanup, drying, and dehumidification help prevent secondary damage and preserve the integrity of the property.

Preserving Belongings and Valuables

Fire damage extends beyond structural damage – it can also destroy or severely damage personal belongings, furniture, and sentimental items. Acting quickly with fire mitigation efforts can help salvage and preserve belongings that may otherwise be lost to smoke, heat, or water damage. Professional mitigation techniques such as content cleaning, pack-out services, and restoration treatments can help restore items to their pre-fire condition, providing property owners comfort and peace of mind.

Addressing Health Hazards

Fire's aftermath presents numerous health hazards, from toxic smoke and soot particles to airborne contaminants and microbial growth. These hazards can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and other health problems. Fire mitigation efforts such as air purification, thorough cleaning, and disinfection help remove harmful contaminants from the indoor environment, creating a safer and healthier space for occupants.

Preventing Lingering Odors

One of the most persistent challenges after a fire is the lingering odor of smoke and soot. These odors can permeate porous materials and linger long after the flames are extinguished, affecting indoor air quality and making the space uninhabitable. Fire mitigation techniques such as odor removal, air filtration, and thermal fogging help neutralize odors at the source, eliminating lingering smells and restoring a fresh, clean environment.

Restoring Peace of Mind

Dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be overwhelming and emotionally draining, but taking swift action with fire mitigation efforts can help restore peace of mind. Property owners can focus on the path to recovery by entrusting the mitigation process to professionals, knowing that their property is in capable hands.

With swift and effective mitigation efforts, you can take the first step towards rebuilding and restoring your property to its pre-fire condition.

Preventing Winter Woes: How to Winterize Your Home

10/23/2023 (Permalink)

Winter brings enchanting landscapes and cozy moments by the fireplace, but it also brings the potential for property damage due to harsh weather conditions.

One of the most common and costly issues during the colder months is cracked pipes caused by freezing water. To avoid this and other cold-weather complications, it's crucial to winterize your home. Here's how:

1. Insulate Pipes: Ensure that pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces are well-insulated. Use pipe sleeves or heat tape to keep them warm and prevent freezing.

2. Seal Gaps and Cracks: Seal gaps and cracks in your home's exterior to prevent cold air from entering. Check for drafts around doors, windows, and electrical outlets, and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them.

3. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses: Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor faucets and drain them thoroughly. Shut off the water supply to these faucets and consider using faucet covers to insulate them.

4. Service Your Heating System: Have your heating system professionally serviced to ensure it's in optimal working condition. A well-maintained system keeps your home warm and prevents frozen pipes.

5. Adjust Thermostat Settings: While lowering the thermostat when you're not at home is tempting, try to maintain a consistent temperature to prevent pipes from freezing. A programmable thermostat can help you manage temperature adjustments efficiently.

6. Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warm air to circulate pipes in kitchen and bathroom cabinets by leaving cabinet doors open. This can help prevent them from getting too cold.

7. Let Faucets Drip: On freezing nights, let faucets drip a little to keep water moving. Running water is less likely to freeze.

8. Maintain Attic Insulation: Ensure your attic is well-insulated to prevent warm air from escaping through the roof. Proper insulation also helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature.

9. Clean Gutters: Keep your gutters free of debris to prevent ice dams from forming. Ice dams can damage your roof and lead to water leaks.

10. Plan for Vacation: If you're going on vacation during the winter, leave your heating system on and set it to a temperature that prevents freezing.

11. Install Storm Windows: If you have storm windows, install them to add an extra layer of insulation to your home.

12. Close Crawl Space Vents: If you have crawl spaces with vents, close them for the winter to prevent cold air from entering.

13. Consider Pipe Heating Cables: For particularly vulnerable pipes, consider using pipe heating cables to keep them warm during cold spells.

14. Be Prepared: Always know the location of your main water shut-off valve. Turning off the water supply can minimize damage in case of a burst pipe.

Winterizing your home involves avoiding costly repairs and ensuring comfort during the colder months. By taking these precautions, you can protect your home from the perils of winter and enjoy the season worry-free.

Winter Heating Smarts

1/29/2023 (Permalink)

The winter season is here, and with it comes shorter days and lower temperatures. No matter where you live, winter brings a change in weather.

Many use alternative heating sources like fireplaces, portable space heaters, and wood-burning stoves to keep their homes and workplaces cozy.

Did you know heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths? According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment fires cause an estimated $1 billion in direct property damage annually. Keep the following safety tips in mind to help reduce your risk of a heating-related fire. 

-Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater. Have a three-foot "kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters. 

-Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home. 

-Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.

-Always use the right kind of fuel specified by the manufacturer for fuel-burning space heaters. 

-Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

-Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer's instructions. 

-Test smoke alarms monthly. 

SERVPRO Disaster Response

1/29/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO knows that no matter what size the disaster is, the issue must be taken care of quickly! We can handle any size of disaster to get your home or large facility back and running after any disaster. 

When a large disaster strikes, we at SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties partner with one of SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Teams. That gives us the resources we need to be ready 24/7.

With a network of nearly 2000 franchises and Disaster Recovery Teams, the SERVPRO system strives to be faster to any disaster. Strategically located throughout the United States, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Teams are ready to assist us in handling the largest storms and highest flood waters. Providing experience, additional manpower, equipment, and other resources. In the aftermath of a disaster, there is only one objective, to help make it like it, "Like it never even happened," as quickly as possible.

How to Find Water You Can't See

1/29/2023 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property.

SERVPRO has the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform. We can answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by our franchise.

-Moisture sensors detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls.

-Moisture meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings allowing us to monitor the drying process.

-Thermo hygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is important to dry the structure, but it must also be disinfected and often deodorized. 

Fall Fire Safety

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

Autumn is the favorite time of year for many people- the temperatures are cooler, the scenery is beautiful and colorful, and there are plenty of events and activities to keep us all busy. But, there are also some unique fire hazards, and it is to your advantage to plan to ensure your fall season is safe and fire-free. 

Keep these tips in mind: 

• Be careful where you put your fall decorations; many are highly flammable so don't place them near open flames or heat sources
• Don't block escape routes with decorations
• Teach children to stay away from open flames avoid billowing fabric when choosing Halloween costumes
• Try to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in jack-o-lanterns
• Use extreme caution if using a real candle.
• Be aware of the dangers of an excess of carbon monoxide. 

CO poisoning can occur from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers, or idling cars left in enclosed spaces. Be sure that you have fuel-burning appliances inspected yearly, that your fireplace and fuel-burning equipment is properly vented, and only use BBQ grills outside.

New Time New Batteries

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors play a vital role in saving lives and can help reduce fire damage to your home by reducing the reaction time of the fire department. It is best practice to check the batteries in your smoke alarms when we set our clocks back for Daylight Savings.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters, and on every house level. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to meet specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements. 

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees, or client to escape quickly and safely in an emergency. 

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. 

-Install smoke alarms on every level of the home including the basement. 

- Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance. 

-Test smoke alarms at least once a month using a test button. 

-Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps" the battery is low and should be replaced immediately. 

-Replace all smoke alarms when they are ten years old. 

Winter Ready Business

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

In Mid-Missouri we can experience ice, cold winters with sleet, snow, ice, and damaging winds. We may not be able to control Mother Nature, but we can take action by getting the property winter ready with these precautions.

• Check property for downed tree limbs and branches. Winter conditions could cause branches to fall causing damage to property or person injuries.
• Inspect roofs, water pipes, and gutters. Clear gutters of any debris from the fall to prevent a damming effect. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building.
• Inspect walkways and parking lots for proper drainage. This could alleviate a potential flood and/or slip hazard.
• Entryways, handrails, and stairwells should be checked to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Post caution signs where water may be present and install mats or non-slip surfaces in the dangerous areas.
• Protect pipes from freezing. Allow water to drip when temperatures go below freezing. Leave cabinet doors open to circulate warm air, if pipes are under them. Consider shutting off water to outdoor faucets and ensure they are properly drained.
• Emergency Ready Profile. Contact SERVPRO for a no-cost assessment of your facility. It provides you with a plan to get back to business faster following a disaster.

Make sure your business is ready for the bitterly cold weather that may be ahead. If winter weather strikes, SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties are Here to Help.