Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts
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.
Winter Checklist for Your Home
12/20/2021 (Permalink)
WINTER CHECKLIST FOR YOUR HOME
Winter weather can wreak havoc on your home if you are not prepared. Here is a list of tips and tricks for the winter months.
WINDOWS & DOORS
*Replace weather-stripping around doors and windows to prevent heat loss.
*Make sure your windows are securely locked to prevent cold air coming in or heat loss.
*Inspect windows for cracks, gaps or broken glass. Replace or repair if needed.
GUTTERS
*Clean out any debris to prevent blockage of water flow and make sure downspouts flow away from house to prevent flooding or foundation damage.
*Make sure gutters are properly fastened. Ice and snow can pull gutters down and away from home.
*Cleaning out downspouts help with ice dams.
DRAINS
*Cover outside faucets with an insulated cover if not frost free.
*Unhook hoses and drain them before putting them away.
HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
*Cover air conditioner with a protective cover.
*Replace air filter in furnace.
*Check duct work in attic and or basement for any leaks.
*Inspect Chimney flue for cracks, creosote and soot buildup before starting a fire. Also, check damper to see if it is working properly and not rusted, or warped. This could help avoid a fire hazard.
ROOF
*Check for deteriorating flashing around vent pipes, chimney and sky lights. Seal or replace where water could seep in.
*Check for any roof damage which could create water damage from snow or ice melting on roof.
What Makes SERVPRO Stand Out
12/20/2021 (Permalink)
As a restoration company, our aim is to be the trusted resource among clients. We ensure that we follow industry standard protocols. Our staff members go through IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration) training to be best prepared for all the services we offer. They are also certified with OSHA, Lead, and Asbestos awareness. We maintain a large inventory of equipment for residential and commercial work. The extensive list was added to this past week with more equipment being sent to our team. Air movers, dehumidification equipment, air scrubbers, specialty drying equipment including desiccants and generators all help complete the work in a timely manner. Lastly, our team members utilize technology and client documentation to make sure that everything is recorded properly. Our proprietary software that documents and records all the essential information is needed to make sure that these pieces are easily accessible.
Duct Cleaning
12/16/2021 (Permalink)
The air distribution system of your furnace and air conditioning system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the air duct work of your home or business.
If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating odors, dust and other contaminants.
If you need assistance determining if your system needs cleaning SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties can inspect your duct system. Keeping your ducts clean can also keep your coil clean and extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.
Having your duct system cleaned can:
- Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
- May help to eliminate offensive odors.
- Helps reduce the potential for mold growth by removing organic materials from the duct system.
For more information on air duct cleaning contact SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties today at 636-456-3422.
Advanced Technology and Techniques
12/16/2021 (Permalink)
The past few decades has seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.
Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment
Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.
- An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
- Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation
Water Extraction Equipment
Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.
- Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water.
- Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
Drying Equipment
Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.
- High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
- Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
Odor Removal and Deodorization
Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.
- Air scrubbers
- Thermal foggers and deodorization agents
Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Anti-Microbial Treatments
The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.
- Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
- Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.
No disaster too big
12/6/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO knows that no matter what size the disaster is the issue at hand needs to be taken care of, and fast! We can handle any size disaster to get your home or large facility back and running after any kind of disaster.
When a large disaster strikes, we at SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties partner with one of SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Teams. That allows us to have the resources we need to be "Ready for Whatever Happens ." With a network of nearly 1800 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. SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Teams have responded to hundreds of disaster events. 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
We are ready when disaster strikes.
12/3/2021 (Permalink)
When we get called out to a water damage job we never know exactly what we will encounter. There are a few things we run into that complicate the process. That can be something like limited power available for our use with our drying equipment. When that happens sometimes we can use our power box that plugs into the customers 220v dryer outlet and gives us additional power to use. If that's not available we can use a generator. If the job is to far out that can be logistically not productive to make trips to keep the generator fueled up and monitored. So sometimes it extends the dry time because we are using less equipment. It could also be multilayered floors. We have been to jobs were there were 5 layers of different materials on the floor. When that is the case it usually requires additional demolition. When all those layers get wet it usually has to be opened up to get it to dry. Which of course adds to the total cost of the job with the reconstruction that will be needed.
Whatever unique circumstance we find our team will do whatever it takes to get it dry and put back together as soon as possible
Stay Safe When Heating Your Home
12/1/2021 (Permalink)
The winter season is in full swing! The days are shorter and temperatures are lower. Here in Missouri the winter weather will affect what we do to keep our homes and work places comfortable. In an effort to keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use alternative heat sources like fireplaces, portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is responsible for an estimated $893 million in property damage annually. Heating is the second leading cause of residential fire deaths, making it important to review ways to help reduce the risk of a heating-related fire.
-Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space heater. Have a three foot "Kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters.
-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.
-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.
-Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year 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.
Are You Ready for Whatever Happens?
12/1/2021 (Permalink)
Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not properly prepared. Whether it is heavy rain, freezing temperatures, damaging winds, sleet or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared, and help take the sting out of winter weather.
To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.
1. Check your property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as heavy wind, heavy rain, ice and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
2. Roofs, water pipes and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from the home or business. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can lead to a damming effect that can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
3. Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
4. Inspect property especially walkways and parking lots for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
5. Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potentially slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
6. Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outside faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
SERVPRO is Here to Help during your time of need
5/8/2020 (Permalink)
During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.
Specialized Training
We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:
- Kitchen/Food Areas
- Bathrooms
- Schools/Classrooms
- Offices
- Retail Spaces
- Water Fountains
- Shelving/Racks
- Sales Counters
- Carpets and Rugs
- Stair Handrails
- Elevator Cars
- Playground Equipment
- Fitness Equipment
Specialized Products
The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning
If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties 636-456-3422
Up to the Challenge
11/25/2019 (Permalink)
When we get called out to a water damage job we never know exactly what we will encounter. There are a few things we run into that complicate the process. That can be something like limited power available for our use with our drying equipment. When that happens sometimes we can use our power box that plugs into the customers 220v dryer outlet and gives us additional power to use. If that's not available we can use a generator. If the job is to far out that can be logistically not productive to make trips to keep the generator fueled up and monitored. So sometimes it extends the dry time because we are using less equipment. It could also be multilayered floors. We have been to jobs were there were 5 layers of different materials on the floor. When that is the case it usually requires additional demolition. When all those layers get wet it usually has to be opened up to get it to dry. Which of course adds to the total cost of the job with the reconstruction that will be needed.
Whatever unique circumstance we find our team will do whatever it takes to get it dry and put back together as soon as possible
Why SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties? Experience.
11/22/2019 (Permalink)
Why SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties? Experience. Our qualified team is here for your home or business.
Why SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties? Experience in fire damage. Experience in water damage. Experience in mold remediation. Experience in storm damage. Experience in commercial services. Experience in professionalism. Experience in being helpful. Experience in problem-solving. Experience in being efficient. Experience in being effective. Experience in customer service. Experience in creating happy customers.
With many years of combined experience -- and counting -- in the Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration industry, if you have fire or water damage at your home or business, you’ll want a company you can trust and one with a major component: experience. You want a company with credibility, history, a solid reputation and qualified experts. And that’s SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties.
Experience in Fire Damage & Restoration
SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties has experience in fire damage and restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home or business to pre-fire condition. In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your residential or commercial property may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. And we’re well-equipped to handle that, too.
Experience in Water Damage & Restoration
SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties has experience in water damage restoration. When your home or business has water damage from flooding or leaks, you need the company that can respond immediately and has the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties uses advanced water damage inspection and extraction equipment to help us find the moisture and to remove it as quickly as possible. Our highly trained team will monitor and document the drying process so that you know your property is back to normal.
Experience in Mold Remediation & Restoration
SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties has experience in mold remediation and restoration. When a home or business suffers a water damage event, a mold infestation can quickly arise and begin to spread in 48-72 hours. Because mold can produce allergens and irritants, you will want a professional who has training and experience to properly resolve the mold infestation. If you suspect that your residential property or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties can inspect, assess and remediate your property.
Experience in Storm Damage & Restoration
SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties has experience in storm damage restoration. Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your Lincoln, Warren, Montgomery, or Gasconade County, home or business, you need the company with storm damage experience and expertise. SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.
Experience in Commercial Services
Our team of highly trained restoration specialists has experience in commercial services. Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment. SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties has the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients.
We can help make it “Like it never even happened,” for any of the following:
- Office Buildings
- Apartment Buildings
- Restaurants
- Hotel/Motels
- Retail Stores
- Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
- Manufacturing & Industrial
- Government/Military
Experienced Team
Our team has a high degree of professionalism. No matter where you may encounter our staff, we represent the company with the utmost respect. We understand the importance of being professional in all settings. We are extremely helpful to our customers. In fact, being helpful is one word that many of our happy customers expressed in our Certificate of Satisfaction (COS). We are there to help you, to serve you. And when there is a problem with fire damage, water damage, mold damage, storm damage at your home or business, our team knows how to effectively and efficiently resolve that problem. We know how to make it “Like it never even happened.” One of the many things we pride ourselves on is customer satisfaction. We always put our customers first, make them our #1 priority. We are advocates in creating happy customers. To create happy customers is a mantra we firmly stand behind 100%. That’s part of our mission, part of our goal every day.
Our team is our biggest asset. They come to the rescue when your residential or commercial property faces a fire damage or water damage. They even come to the rescue if your home or business needs mold remediation, carpet cleaning or any other general cleaning services. SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties’ is faster to any size disaster.
Fire damage, water damage, mold damage, storm damage, or any type of damage for that matter, at your home or business can be upsetting and destructive. It can leave you feeling stressed, confused, and vulnerable. When it does, you’ll need a caring expert with experience to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties will treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home, business and belongings with care. We’re with you throughout your entire journey. We help to make that unpleasant situation into a pleasant experience. Go with the company that has a diverse portfolio of experience. Experience the SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties’ way. Call us at 636-456-3422
Your ERP Partner
11/13/2019 (Permalink)
Our SERVPRO ERP reaps many benefits for your business. Allow us to implement one at yours. Call 636-456-3422
As a business owner, you always strive to do everything in your will and power to protect your business, to protect your investment. We are “Here to Help” you do just that and more. SERVPRO® of Lincoln & Warren Counties will help keep your business safe with our easy and effective Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). We make it our business to help protect your business. Why SERVPRO®? Because we are your exclusive ERP partner.
What is an Emergency Ready Profile, you ask? An ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information regarding your business. This includes information such as emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. Learn how to keep your business safe with a SERVPRO® ERP.
An ERP is a tool for property managers and owners -- both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation. This can help minimize how water damage and fire damage can affect your home or business.
3 benefits of an Emergency Ready Profile:
- Helps ensure you’re “Ready for whatever happens.”
- Helps minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.
- Helps save time and money.
Our team here at SERVPRO® of Lincoln & Warren Counties encourage you to always be prepared, always be “Ready for whatever happens,” and you can achieve that with our ERP. When we implement an Emergency Ready Profile at your commercial property, we analyze your blueprints and do a thorough walk-through to help ensure we cover all basis. We tag each system of your business so you can easily identify where they are if an emergency arises. Throughout the ERP process, we capture photos and document all pertinent information about your business and personally deliver it to you.
Our mobile-friendly FREE app allows you to see all critical information in one central location. And you can access it with just the touch of a button. Take that very important step and go to your App Store to get our app now. It’s completely FREE. By doing so, you’re already taking those necessary steps to protecting your investment.
When it comes to protecting your business, count on the company that has experience in doing so. Count on the company that’s your exclusive ERP partner -- SERVPRO® of Lincoln & Warren Counties. Our marketing team will be happy to implement your ERP -- for FREE. Contact us online, or give us a call today: 636-456-3422.
Why SERVPRO? Because we are your local mold mitigation specialists
11/13/2019 (Permalink)
This is one of the most common mold issues we see. Mold growing on the floor structure.
Why SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties? Because we’re your local mold remediation and restoration specialists. When your home or business encounters mold, it’s vital to act fast and get mold remediation and restoration specialists there as quickly as possible. And SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties is faster to any size disaster.
Did you know mold can begin to grow and start to spread throughout your home in as little as 48-72 hours? It’s true. Mold can be a serious problem at your home or business, so it’s vital that you understand mold and the affects it has on your home, business and the people that live and work there.
Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors, making it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Consider the following mold facts:
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
- Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
- Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
- Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
Because mold can produce allergens and irritants, you will want a professional who has training and experience to properly resolve the mold infestation. If you suspect that your Lincoln, Warren, Montgomery, or Gasconade County, home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties can inspect, assess and remediate your property.
If you ever wonder why SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties, we’re a company that specializes in mold remediation and restoration. We’re a trusted leader in the restoration industry. Rest assured, SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties fits the “mold.” To contact your local mold remediation and restoration specialists, call 636-456-3422.
Duct Cleaning
11/11/2019 (Permalink)
Reports on outdoor air pollution are alarming. But did you know that the quality of air inside your home or business is also a cause for concern? Research shows that the concentration of some pollutants is two to five times higher indoors than outdoors. Given that many Americans spend about 90% of their time indoors, you should start to freshen your air, such as through regular air duct cleaning. Below is more information about indoor air pollution and what to do about it.
What Are the Sources of Indoor Air Pollution?
Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) is often caused by sources that release harmful particles or gases into a room. These sources include your central HVAC system, cleaning products, tobacco products, new carpet, asbestos, and combustion appliances. Areas with inadequate ventilation also tend to have worse IAQ since there's limited outdoor and indoor air exchange. Additionally, outdoor air pollutants like pesticides and radon can infiltrate structures through holes and ventilation systems.
How Can You Improve Indoor Air Quality?
Since ventilation systems play a significant role in IAQ, you should perform routine air duct cleaning. This maintenance procedure goes a long way in reducing the effects of pollutants. If you've been using your HVAC system for a while without a thorough air duct cleaning, know that you may have been circulating pollen, dust, dirt, and other contaminants that can trigger respiratory illnesses. Have an expert test the level of pollutants in your building and devise a corrective action plan immediately.
For professional air duct cleaning, trust the specialists at SERVPRO® of Lincoln & Warren Counties in Troy, MO. This locally owned and operated company provides superior cleaning and restoration services, including mold restoration, water and fire damage repair, carpet cleaning, and biohazard clean up. Their highly trained technicians have been assisting residents and businesses throughout Troy, Warrenton, Montgomery City, Hermann, Wright City, Moscow Mills, Owensville, Hawk Point, Silex, and Elsberry. Call them at (636) 456-3422 for 24-hour assistance, or visit their website to learn more about their services.
Disaster Recovery Team
11/5/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO responds in force
SERVPRO knows that no matter what size the disaster is the issue at hand needs to be taken care of, and fast! We can handle any size disaster to get your home or large facility back and running after any kind of disaster.
When a large disaster strikes, we at SERVPRO of Lincoln & Warren Counties partner with one of SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Teams. That allows us to have the resources we need to be "Ready for Whatever Happens ." With a network of nearly 1800 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. SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Teams have responded to hundreds of disaster events. 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.