How to Prevent Flood Damage in Your Business

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Team Lutz at 215.368.4110!!

Preventing flood damage in your business is crucial to safeguard your property, assets, and operations. While it's impossible to eliminate the risk entirely, here are some measures you can take to minimize the potential for flood damage:

1. Understand Your Property's Vulnerabilities: Assess your business property to identify areas prone to flooding. Look for signs of poor drainage, cracks in the foundation, or areas where water can accumulate. Understanding these vulnerabilities will help you develop a targeted prevention plan.

2. Maintain Proper Drainage Systems: Ensure that your property's drainage systems, including gutters, downspouts, and drains, are clear of debris and functioning effectively. Regularly clean and inspect them to prevent blockages and ensure water flows away from your building.

3. Install Flood Barriers and Sealing Systems: Consider installing flood barriers or flood-resistant seals around doorways, windows, and other vulnerable openings. These barriers can help prevent water intrusion during flooding events.

4. Elevate Equipment and Utilities: Keep electrical panels, heating systems, and other critical equipment elevated above ground level. If possible, relocate them to higher floors or install them on raised platforms to minimize potential damage from floodwaters.

5. Waterproof Basement Areas: If your business has a basement, ensure it is properly waterproofed. Use waterproof coatings on walls and floors, install sump pumps to drain excess water, and consider adding a backup power source to keep the pumps operational during power outages.

6. Implement a Flood Emergency Plan: Develop a comprehensive flood emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and procedures for shutting off utilities. Train your employees on the plan and conduct regular drills to ensure everyone is prepared in case of a flood.

7. Secure Important Documents and Data: Store important documents, contracts, and sensitive data in waterproof containers or off-site in digital formats. This will help protect critical information from water damage and allow for easier recovery in case of a flood.

8. Regular Maintenance and Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of your property, including roofs, walls, and plumbing systems. Address any issues promptly, such as roof leaks or pipe leaks, to prevent water damage before it becomes a major problem.

9. Obtain Flood Insurance: Consult with your insurance provider to determine if your business is located in a flood-prone area and if you should invest in flood insurance. This coverage can provide financial protection and help you recover quickly in the event of flood damage.

Remember, proactive prevention is key to minimizing flood damage. By implementing these measures and staying prepared, you can significantly reduce the risk of flood-related disruptions to your business.

What To Do After a Fire in Your Home

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Team Lutz cares and wants to help. Call our office at 215-368-4110.

Experiencing a fire in your home can be a traumatic and overwhelming event. Once the fire is extinguished and everyone is safe, it's crucial to take immediate action to begin the process of recovery and restoration. Here are some important steps to take after a fire in your home:

1. Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to report the fire and initiate the claims process. Provide them with detailed information about the damage and follow their instructions regarding documentation and next steps.

2. Ensure Safety: Before re-entering your home, wait for clearance from the fire department or relevant authorities to ensure it is safe to do so. They will assess the structural integrity and utilities to ensure there are no immediate risks.

3. Document the Damage: Take photos or videos of the damage caused by the fire. This documentation will be helpful during the insurance claim process and when working with restoration professionals.

4. Secure Your Property: If necessary, secure your property by boarding up windows, doors, or other openings to protect it from further damage and unauthorized access.

5. Contact Restoration Professionals: Engage the services of a reputable fire restoration company. They will assess the damage, create a comprehensive restoration plan, and work to restore your home to its pre-fire condition. They will handle tasks such as debris removal, cleaning, smoke odor removal, and structural repairs.

6. Salvage Valuables: If it's safe to do so, retrieve any valuable items that were not significantly damaged by the fire or water used for firefighting. This may include important documents, jewelry, or sentimental items. However, avoid entering the property or handling items that may be hazardous due to smoke, soot, or water damage.

7. Address Immediate Needs: Make arrangements for temporary housing if your home is uninhabitable. Contact your utility providers to suspend services until the property is restored, and notify your postal service to forward your mail to a temporary address.

8. Communicate with Relevant Parties: Inform your family, friends, and employer about the situation and provide them with updated contact information. Inform your child's school about the situation as well.

9. Begin the Cleanup Process: Work with your restoration professionals to initiate the cleaning and restoration process. This may involve removing debris, drying out the property, cleaning soot and smoke residue, and addressing water damage.

10. Review and Update Safety Measures: Take this opportunity to review your home's fire safety measures. Install or replace smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors as needed. Develop or update a fire escape plan and ensure everyone in the household is familiar with it.

Remember to take care of yourself and your family during this challenging time. Lean on your local SERVPRO Team Lutz to assist you through this process. With patience and the help of professionals like SERVPRO Team Lutz, you can gradually restore your home and move forward from the fire incident.

Time to Check Your Water Heater

5/14/2023 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

Maintaining your hot water heater may increase the efficiency and possibly the life span. Here are a few things you can do to help. 

There is a valve located near the top of the water heater called a TPR valve. This valve will have a pipe leading away from it. Be sure to place a bucket under the pipe and shut of the power and the cold water supply, Then lift the valve to let a little of the water out and let go. If the water does not stop flowing then the valve will need to be replaced. 

Wrap the tank with and pipes. Don't forget to wrap the cold water pipes as well as this will prevent the pipes from condensation in the summer. 

Draining the tank and washing out the sediment until clear water comes out will increase the lifespan of the heater. This should be done yearly. 

Check to see if the anode rod needs to be replaced every year. 

SERVPRO Team Lutz is a professional restoration company that will always be here in your time of need. Call us at 215.368.4110!

6 Common Roof Leaks

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Team Lutz at 215.368.4110!

When it comes to roof leaks, even the smallest of consistent drips can cause major water damage. This makes stopping any of these potential leaks of paramount importance. But in order to stop these leaks, you need to know where to look and what to look for. Here are the six most common spots where you may find leaks in your home.

Around the Chimney

While it may seem like your roof and chimney are one single entity, they’re actually not. They are connected using strips of flashing which covers the large gaps between the roof and chimney. This flashing often is a primary source of leaks in the home. Over time, this flashing might pull away from the brick or rust. It’s generally easy to spot this when it happens so if you have a leak and the flashing is pulled away from the brick, you’ll know where the leak is originating.

Shingles

The shingles on your roof serve many functions for your home. One way they protect your home is by ensuring the heat or cold doesn’t get into your home. Another way it protects your roof is by keeping water out which helps you avoid potentially dangerous water damage. However, as much as these shingles protect you, they can be damaged by old age or a big storm. If the shingles are damaged or missing, water may be able to seep into the underlayment and sheathing which can then cause leaks inside the home. To make sure you’re not in danger of these leaks and subsequent water damage, look for the signs of damaged shingles which include lost granules, curling or buckling shingles, or obvious missing spots.

Gutters

The gutters that stretch around your roof likely collect leaves, pine needles, and other debris as it falls from overhanging trees. This debris can clog or damage the gutters causing water to collect when it rains. The standing water can then back up in the gutters and cause leaks to occur. People failing to clean their gutters is one of the most common causes of water leaks. But there are other potential dangers. The water can freeze and that has the potential to cause many other problems. Even if you don’t expect that there are leaks, you should clean out your gutters regularly to ensure they don’t clog or become damaged.

Valleys

Unless you have a flat roof, there will probably be spots on your roof where two different planes will intersect. The line where these planes meet is commonly referred to as a valley. These valleys may be covered with flashing, rolled roofing, or some other material depending on where you live. These valleys can be potential dangers because water tends to collect in these low areas and any potential problems with its covering can allow water to seep into the house causing significant water damage.

Ice Dams

Ice dams are potential problems in cold climates in which snow that accumulates on a sloping roof melts and flows down the roof underneath the blanket of snow that insulates the roof. This causes a dam of ice to build up on the edge of the roof and catch melted snow rather than allowing it to run off as it should. This backup of water has the potential to cause major leaks in your roof and cause significant water damage in your home.

Roof Penetrations

Any objects that extend above the roof such as vents, pipes, or other penetrations have the potential to cause leaks in the roof. Most of these objects will have flashing around them to connect them to the roof so it’s important to check the flashing to ensure that there’s no rust or loose spots on or around it. As flashing is a primary source of leaks in homes, this has the potential to cause serious water damage to your home.

Leaks, even minuscule ones, have the ability to cause major water damage to your home. Most of these leaks originate from the roof and allows water to drip down into the attic or walls which can be difficult to see until it’s too late. That’s why it’s important for homeowners to be vigilant of any potential problems. If you suffer water damage in your home, call on the professionals at SERVPRO Team Lutz to remediate the problem.

Wate Removal is the First Step in Drying Out Your Business

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO manages all types of devices for water removal from commercial properties--like this injecti-dry system. We prevented demolition.

SERVPRO works with area business owners after disasters happen. These situations can start with leaks, backed-up drains, or a broken sprinkler system. The complete restoration of a business requires water removal first.

To protect your business, water professionals must start the process as soon as possible. Otherwise, the damage caused by water spreading continues to worsen. We use the most efficient and powerful equipment possible to do our tasks.

Because we continue the water extraction process until we get the interior of your business dry again, our pump trucks’ large hoses are not the only things we use. Our customers also see different portable water extraction units, such as:

• Hand-held devices, portable wet vacs
• Weighted devices, riding (Rovers) machines
• A floor-mat system.

One type of device is so small it can fit into places that can hold large amounts of water that was forced into small spaces. Once in, this bonded water is no longer under the pressure that forced it into whichever area it now occupies. The small tubes on these injecti-dry system does the job.

Using weighted devices to pull clean water out of your carpeting and the underlying padding can reduce restoration costs by saving the carpet and reducing what needs replacing. These work by forcing the water out and into the device. We might use a small-sized device called the Claw or riding units for larger areas and hallways.

Wood floors are beautiful, but they also require a substantial investment. To rescue these from destruction, we use our Injecti-Dry system. It removes moisture from underneath the floorboards and can also force warm, dry air into enclosed spaces, including the interior cavities of walls or underneath cabinets and stairwells.

We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. Call SERVPRO Team Lutz at 215.368.4110 for the professional water removal services you need.

Why Professional Restoration Is a Wise Choice for Water Damage in Your Home

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Team Lutz at 215.368.4110!

There are certain things that every homeowner worries about at one time or another. Among these is the possibility of falling victim to a natural disaster like a fire or flood. While these circumstances always remain a possibility with the appropriate conditions, internal water emergencies are often far more likely and frequent than any more detrimental disasters.

While water damage to your home might come from several different sources, cleaning up this damage and restoring its effects is a similar process across the board. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that even moderate water emergencies can get taken care of with conventional drying techniques and that the problem is in the past. Unfortunately, without properly cleaning up water damage and drying the area thoroughly, you could be allowing worsening losses to occur.

Fortunately, our SERVPRO technicians get trained to handle all manner of water emergencies and ensure that the job gets done right. This restoration process begins with a thorough inspection of the immediate damage. We also use thermal imagery to inspect the areas that are out of the line of sight for persistent moisture, and a broader range of damage you could not initially tell was there.

Working quickly to dry the area and clean up the mess are both standard practices of our SERVPRO professionals. Once the site has gotten sufficiently dried using air movers and dehumidification equipment, a better inspection can occur with your home's structural components and building materials to ensure that they are as strong and stable as they should be. Overly damaged materials might require removal and reinstallation to complete the restoration process.

Water damage in your home might come from many potential sources, but overcoming the effects is rarely something that you should handle on your own. Even smaller-scale water damage can have severe impacts on your home if the appropriate, thorough measures do not get taken to ensure the area is cleaned and dried adequately. Trust our SERVPRO Team Lutz technicians to help you through every possible effect of water damage. You can reach us anything by calling 215.368.4110.

Why Your Business Should Call Us Quickly After A Disaster

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Team Lutz, we would love to help! 215-368-4110

Water damage can be disastrous for any business, leading to significant loss of revenue, property damage, and business interruption. That's why it's essential to bring in SERVPRO Team Lutz as quickly as possible. Here are some reasons why businesses should act fast when dealing with water damage:

1. Minimize Property Damage

Water can quickly seep into floors, walls, and ceilings, causing severe damage to the property's structure. The longer the water remains, the more damage it will cause, and the more expensive it will be to repair. By bringing in SERVPRO Team Lutz quickly, you can minimize the damage to your property, saving you time and money in the long run.

2. Prevent Mold Growth

Mold growth is a common problem after water damage. Mold can start growing in as little as 24 hours, and it can cause health problems for employees and customers. SERVPRO Team Lutz can quickly dry out the affected areas, preventing mold growth from occurring.

3. Save Business Operations

Water damage can force a business to shut down its operations, causing significant loss of revenue. By bringing in SERVPRO Team Lutz quickly, you can minimize the amount of time your business is closed, and get back to operating as soon as possible.

4. Insurance Claim Assistance

Water damage can be complicated to navigate when it comes to insurance claims. SERVPRO Team Lutz can assist with the claims process, documenting the damage and providing the necessary information to ensure you get the coverage you deserve.

Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage in a business setting. By bringing in a SERVPRO Team Lutz quickly, you can minimize property damage, prevent mold growth, save business operations, and receive insurance claim assistance.

Sump Pump Insurance Coverage - What to Know

5/2/2023 (Permalink)

When your basement floods, give us a call at 215.368.4110!

Sump pumps can be a homeowner's best friend when it comes to keeping their basement or crawl space dry. These pumps work by removing excess water that has collected in a sump pit and pumping it out of the house. However, what happens when the sump pump fails or is unable to keep up with the water flow? This is when a homeowner may experience a sump pump water loss.

A sump pump water loss occurs when water that should have been removed by the sump pump ends up flooding the basement or crawl space. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including a power outage, mechanical failure, or overwhelming water volume. In such cases, a homeowner may be faced with extensive water damage and cleanup costs.

The good news is that many homeowner's insurance policies provide coverage for sump pump water losses. However, the extent of coverage and any exclusions will depend on the policy and the insurance company.

Coverage for sump pump water losses typically falls under the "water damage" section of a homeowner's insurance policy. This coverage may include the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property, as well as the cost of cleanup and restoration. It's important to note that some policies may have a separate deductible for water damage, which could be higher than the standard deductible.

It's also important to understand any exclusions or limitations that may apply to sump pump water losses. For example, some policies may exclude coverage for losses caused by a sump pump that was not properly maintained or installed. Others may limit coverage to a specific dollar amount or only cover certain types of damage.

To ensure adequate coverage for sump pump water losses, it's important to review your homeowner's insurance policy and speak with your insurance agent. You may want to consider adding additional coverage or increasing your coverage limits if you live in an area with a high risk of flooding or have experienced sump pump water losses in the past.

In addition to insurance coverage, there are steps homeowners can take to minimize the risk of sump pump water losses. This includes regular maintenance of the sump pump and backup power options in case of a power outage. It's also a good idea to have a plan in place for dealing with a sump pump failure or water loss, including having emergency contact information for a professional water damage restoration company.

In conclusion, sump pump water losses can be a costly and stressful experience for homeowners. However, with the right insurance coverage and preventative measures, homeowners can minimize their risk and have peace of mind knowing they are protected.

Call SERVPRO Team Lutz at 215.368.4110!

Why SERVPRO?

5/2/2023 (Permalink)

We would love to your home or business in your time of need, call at 215.368.4110 today.

SERVPRO is a franchise company that provides fire and water damage restoration services, as well as mold remediation, storm damage cleanup, and other related services. The company has been in business for over 50 years and has over 1,700 franchises across the United States and Canada. Here are some reasons why some people may consider SERVPRO to be a reputable company in the restoration industry:

1. Experience: SERVPRO has been in business for over 50 years, giving them extensive experience in the restoration industry. With over 1,700 franchises across the country, they have the resources to handle a wide range of restoration projects, from small water damage cleanup to large-scale disaster response.

2. Training and Certification: SERVPRO technicians undergo extensive training and certification programs to ensure they have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality restoration services. The company is also certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC), which sets industry standards for restoration and cleaning.

3. Advanced Technology: SERVPRO uses advanced technology and equipment to ensure efficient and effective restoration services. They use specialized drying equipment, air scrubbers, and moisture detection tools to quickly and thoroughly dry and clean damaged areas.

4. 24/7 Availability: Water damage and other disasters can happen at any time, which is why SERVPRO offers 24/7 emergency response services. Their technicians are available around the clock to respond to emergencies and begin the restoration process as quickly as possible.

5. Customer Service: SERVPRO is committed to providing exceptional customer service. They work closely with insurance companies and adjusters to ensure a smooth claims process for their customers. They also communicate regularly with their customers throughout the restoration process to keep them informed and answer any questions or concerns.

SERVPRO Team Lutz has extensive experience, advanced technology, and a commitment to customer service. Call us at 215.368.4110, we'd love to help! 

How Can I Avoid an Electrical Fire?

3/1/2023 (Permalink)

fire in living room area

Electrical fires are one of the top causes of home fires in the United States. Our SERVPRO Team Lutz members are on standby 24-hours a day to respond to your call for help. We have been restoring fire damage for local residents for over thirty years! Here are some outdoor electrical safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association for outdoor electrical safety:

Outside Electrical Work

Have a qualified electrician do all electrical work
To prevent an electrical shock, make sure all your outside electrical receptacles are ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected
Have a professional tree-cutting service trim any branches that might fall into electric wiring
Equipment Safety

Use lighting and power tools that a qualified test laboratory lists, and make sure they are made for outdoor use
Store your electrical tools indoors
Keep electric tools away from children
Keep the area around your electric meter and other electrical equipment clean
Check lighting and extension cords for damage before using. Replace any damaged cords right away
Use extension cords listed by a qualified test laboratory and marked for outdoor use.
Extension cords are not meant for long-term use
Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency in your home or commercial business, team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 215-368-4110.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tips for Removing Smoke Odor from Your Home

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

A thermal fogger might be used to remove smoke odor from your home.

After a fire cleanup, home deodorization can be an important next step to making the area livable again. When setting up the cleanup process may professionals in the Buck County area, recommend these three steps for successful odor removal.

1. Identify the Source

Knowing the source of the smoke odor can help determine the best cleanup plan. Odor can come from cigarette smoke, a house fire, or even extended use of a fireplace. In the event of a house fire it may be important to know what type of materials were burned, how long the fire lasted, and how long it’s been since the fire occurred. The smoke odor from cigarettes may also be stronger the longer it has been allowed to settle.

2. Use the Right Tools

When it comes to home deodorization, masking the smoke odor is only a temporary fix. Things may seem fresh for a while but over time the odor will reemerge. This is why it’s important to use the correct tools and cleansers from the start. The method used may depend on the severity of the smoke damage, but in most cases, a ozone machine or thermal fogger may be the best tool for the job.

3. When in Doubt Call a Professional

Whether you’re dealing with cigarette smoke or fire cleanup, you may want to consider contacting a professional for your smoke removal needs. Many professional teams already have the tools needed to successfully remove the smoke odor from your home. They also have the knowledge they need to access the odor’s source and determine the best cleaning plan.

The process for home deodorization requires knowing the source of the odor, and which tools are best for the problem. Knowing these things can help you formulate a plan for smoke odor removal. In many cases, it may be best to contact a professional as they already have the tools and cleaning solutions needed for the job.

5 Ways to Use Landscaping To Protect Your Home

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

You can use mulch to protect your home during a rainstorm.

During a big storm in our area, you take precautions to protect your home. You board up windows and place sandbags to divert water flow. Did you know that you can use your landscaping to protect your yard from outside flooding? Here are five ways to do it.

1. Extend Rain Spouts

The downspouts on your home are supposed to help move water away from your foundation, but only when they're correctly installed. Many rain spouts are too short, so rainwater pools next to the foundation. Extend rain spouts further into the yard to prevent flooding.

2. Choose Heavy Mulch

You can choose many types of mulch based on appearance or price. You can use mulch to protect your home during a rainstorm. Heavy mulch such as shredded bark won't float away but will help the soil absorb excess water and keep it away from your home.

3. Plant a Rain Garden

A rain garden can be planted on a slope and helps to absorb excess water. You can divert rainspouts into a rain garden which protects your house and keeps your home beautiful.

4. Research Native Plants

The most effective way to plant a rain garden is to use native plants. Native plants thrive in your yard, develop deep roots, and help prevent soil erosion. If outside flooding has become a problem at your home, a storm restoration company can make helpful suggestions to prevent future flooding.

5. Level Your Yard for Rain Drainage

A more intense intervention is to correct the slope of your yard. If the ground slopes even slightly toward your foundation, you are more likely to have inside flooding during a storm. You can work with a professional landscaper to correct the slope and help water flow away from your home.
Outside flooding during a storm can cause inside damage. Use landscaping strategies to protect your yard and home from water damage.

Why Insurance Agents Should Work With Storm Restoration Services

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage affected conference room

Property damage after a storm can be catastrophic and costly. If a storm strikes your area, you will likely be flooded with calls from insurance clients looking for help. Working with reliable storm restoration professionals can help ease the process and ensure that all of your clients have their needs met.

1. Quick Response

A storm response needs to be quick in order to be as effective as possible. Returning a structure to a physically stable state, removing flood water, and cleaning the debris left behind should all happen quickly in order to establish safety and prevent mold growth from starting. If mold is prevented, this lessens additional damage and lowers the cost of cleanup. Restoration specialists like SERVPRO pride themselves on their quick response to every type of disaster.

2. Trained Professionals

Storm restoration specialists are trained in responding to every type of storm. Whether it's a hurricane, flood, snowstorm, or tornado, they know how to deal with the damage. After a storm, there is rarely just one type of damage to a structure. There might be wind damage to the siding and water damage from flooding in the basement. These damages require different types of cleaning and repairs. Restoration specialists know how to catalogue and deal with wind damage, flood damage, and more simultaneously. This eliminates the need for multiple specialists working on the same restoration.

3. A Network of Resources

Working with a restoration specialist with a corporate system in place like SERVPRO connects you and your clients with a large national network. Disaster response teams located throughout the country can mobilize and help where and when they are needed. With many clients in the same area needing assistance at the same time, having a large network to draw from after a storm can be highly beneficial.
Recovery from storm damage involves specialized cleaning, repairs, and often rebuilding. Undertaking these tasks in a timely manner is extremely important to help prevent further damage. A storm restoration specialist like SERVPRO can help speed up the claims process and help your clients recover every step of the way.

Top 6 Causes of Commercial Water Damage

10/20/2022 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

While many cases of water damage are experienced by homeowners in the US, commercial buildings are also not immune to water damage. In fact, a data from a survey conducted by the American Housing Survey of the U.S. Census showed that out of 100 representatives of US office buildings, 85% of these are past water damage, while 45% are experiencing current leaks.

It is already common knowledge how disastrous water damage can be. It will impact your business physically and financially. And the best way to minimize its damage on your business is to deal with it right away. Knowing what causes water damage is also crucial to be able to find the right solution to fix it.

Major Causes of Water Damage
Did you know that a leaking faucet can cost you more or less 250 gallons of water each month? There are 12 months in a year; do the math and you will get an idea of the amount of money you get to waste each year for a single unfixed leaking faucet. Below are the 6 most common causes of commercial water damage.

Damaged sprinkler system
The law requires all commercial entities to have a sprinkler system, along with a fire alarm, installed in the building for safety purposes in case of fire. The sprinkler system should only get activated when there is too much heat from fire. However, over time, the sprinkler can get broken and malfunction. When this happens, the sprinkler can get activated even without fire leading to serious flooding within the building.

Roof leaks
The roof should protect the occupants and everything within the building from the external elements such as the heat from the sun and rain. But a leaky roof does otherwise. As the roof gets older, it also becomes more vulnerable to heavy rains and snow, resulting in water damage in your building’s roof.

Broken HVAC system
Your business’ HVAC system is an essential part in maintaining the temperature of your building and to make its occupants comfortable. Studies have also shown that your HVAC system can also impact the productivity level of your employees. However, like any other part of your commercial building, your HVAC system can also experience issues such as clogging and leaking. An HVAC system that is not cleaned and maintained regularly can cause water damage from the excess water in the compression tanks.

Broken equipment and appliances
Sometimes, your building may have appliances such as a water heater, AC, washing machine, and others. Apart from that, there are also pipes within the building that can get damage anytime and cause water damage in the commercial space. Major problems happen if these equipment and appliances get broken and no one notices it or during off-hours as it can leak a significant amount of water.

Damaged windows
Another common cause of water damage in commercial buildings are the damaged windows. Rain water and moisture can seep through especially if the windows are not properly maintained and need re-caulking. While it may not cause immediate flooding, it can do great damage on the drywall and can encourage mold growth.

Natural disaster
Apart from the damage in your building’s foundation and roof, water damage in commercial buildings can also be caused by natural disasters like hurricanes, thunderstorms, and heavy rain resulting in flash floods. Clogged gutters can lead rainwater to flow towards the foundation of your building, making it more vulnerable to water damage.
Commercial water damage is a devastating problem that any business owner can experience. While there is no way to totally get rid of the threats of water damage on your building, knowing its most common causes will help you minimize the risk.

Staying Safe After a Flood

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call us 24/7 at 215.368.4110!

Flooding occurs when water overflows from a few inches deep to completely engulfing entire buildings. Flooding can happen when rivers and lakes can't handle too much rain or snowmelt or when rain can't be absorbed completely.

It's critical to know the difference between watching and a warning to know what to do to stay safe.

Flood Watch or Flash Flood Watch

Flooding or flash flooding in your area is possible. Pay attention to changing weather and flood conditions, and be prepared to move to higher ground.

Flood Warning

Flooding is occurring or is about to happen. Avoid low-lying areas and, if necessary, evacuate.

Flash Flood Warning 

If a flash flood is occurring or is about to happen, seek higher ground immediately.

Be prepared!

It is essential to be prepared for unpredictable weather. Here are a few to stay safe after a flood:

•  Return only when the authorities indicate it is safe to do so.
• Except in an emergency, avoid driving.
• When cleaning mold or other debris, wear thick work gloves, protective gear, and boots, and use suitable face coverings or masks.
• Be careful that there could be snakes or other animals in your home.
• Be cautious of the possibility of electrocution. If you are standing in water, if the equipment is wet, do not touch it. If it is safe, turn off the electrical to avoid a shock.
• Floodwater can be contaminated or charged with electricity from downed power lines, so avoid wading in it.
• Only use a generator or other gasoline-powered gear outside and away from windows.

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions and is available 24 hours a day – Call us today at 215.368.4110.

When Unexpected Damage To Your Home Or Business Occurs Call SERVPRO

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

When disasters strike call SERVPRO to get you quickly back home!

Our trained and certified professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown are ready to help you with all your recovery and restoration needs.

When you are facing disasters such as a storm or fire or flooding, the first thing you need to do is call in qualified, professional help. When dealing with these kinds of damage the cleanup is just the beginning of getting you back into your home or business. Our team at SERVPRO can provide a wide range of repair, restoration, and building services to help you to get your property back to preloss condition.

No Matter What Repairs You Need SERVPRO Can Help

After a storm or fire damages your home or business, it’s important to rebuild areas that are damaged by working from the structural components out. Our team has experience restoring many different types of structures and is qualified to handle the entire process for you. That includes restoring the electrical as well as doing plumbing work. We are also qualified to ensure your HVAC system is working correctly. We can help with roof repair as well as get the damaged tile floor replaced, or deal with any moisture and mold. When you call SERVPRO, you get a team of trained professionals who can handle all of your property damage issues.

Call Our Pros At SERVPRO

You may be unsure about what type of work needs to be done to your home or business and that is quite normal when it comes to property damage. When you call SERVPRO we will help you to get back on track fast. Our trained professionals will perform a detailed assessment.  Call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown for a consultation and quote for the work you need to be done at your home or business. We’re available for you 24/7 at  215.368.4110.

What To Do First When A Fire Occurs

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

When a fire strikes your home it can be hard to know what to do first. Once the fire department allows you to get back into your home, what should you do? Damage can continue to happen to your home even after the fire is out so it is important to take steps. This means working with a professional repair and restoration team.

What Does Clean Up Look Like After A Fire?

Fires create many different types of damage. There is water damage that occurs when the fire is extinguished. If left untreated water damage can lead to rot and mold. There are also burned materials and smoke damage that needs to be handled carefully so that more damage does not occur. Anything that is damaged beyond repair needs to be safely removed. The team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is ready to help you. They will assess the damage and create a plan for restoring your home. 

Our Team Can Handle Many Types Of Damage 

Often when a fire hits your home it will affect more than just the floors and drywall. You may also have plumbing or electrical repairs that need to be handled by a professional team. When looking for a repair and restoration team it's important to find one that can take care of all your restoration needs instead of having to hire out each part.  

There is a lot of work to do after a fire. That's why our team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown Is ready to provide you with the guidance and support you need. Call our team after a fire to get the help you need. 

Call us 24/7 at 215.368-4110.

24 Hour Service Even on Christmas!

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

Happy Holidays!

It's almost the best time of the year again, Christmas! We all love this time of the year whether you like putting up your Christmas tree, putting lights all around your home, or even baking cookies and having hot chocolate by the fireplace. Even with is being the jolliest holiday of the year accidents can still happen. It is important to keep safety at the top of your mind when getting your home ready for this holiday.

“According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in 44% of home Christmas tree fires. Though Christmas tree fires may not be common, they can be devastating to more than the house itself. They can destroy irreplaceable photos, mementos, and family heirlooms and even cost lives,” says Isaacson. “To help keep your holidays bright and your home and family safe, use common sense with candles and tree placement, and follow these important home decorating guidelines.”

Common Toilet Issues and Solutions

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

Please call us at 215.368.4110!

Toilet overflow is a common cause of water damage in homes and commercial buildings. Toilet issues are just as common and can also lead to toilet overflow. Here are some tips to solve some toilet issues so that you can prevent toilet overflow.

1. “Phantom Flushes”
   Sometimes, you hear your toilet to refill randomly like someone had just flushed it. The cause of this is a slow leak from the tank of the bowl. The problem is most likely caused by a bad flap or flapper seat. The solution is to drain the tank and bowl and then inspect the flapper and clean the flapper seat. You should replace the flapper if it is worn out or damaged.
2. Trickling Water
   If you hear a prolonged hissing noise coming from your toilet, it might be water trickling from the supply line. To check this, inspect the refill tube and ballock or the inlet-valve assembly. The hissing sound is usually caused by water coming through the inlet valve. To solve this issue, check whether the float is sticking or needs adjusting then check the refill tube isn’t too far into the overflow tube. If neither of these solves the problem, you may need to replace the ballcock assembly.
3. Bowl Empties Slowly

This also known as a weak flush, which is a result of a clogged hole underneath the rim of the bowl. Use a curved piece of wire, such as a coat hanger wire, and gently poke into flush hole to clear out any debris. Be careful not to scratch the bowl.

4. Clogs
   These are the most common toilet problems that people have. A force-cup plunger is a very effective way to clear minor clogs. For serious clogs, use a closet auger. You would insert the end of the auger into the drain hole and then twist the handle and make sure to try to not scratch the bowl.

If you experience any toilet overflow that may have caused water damage in your property, please call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown to give you a free estimate at 215.368.4110!

SERVPRO Commercial Services

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

Faster to Any Size Disaster! Call us today at 215.368.4110!

Every commercial property experiences wear and tear, including dirt and grime that accumulates from ordinary use. You can count on SERVPRO of Alhambra to make your workspace look its very best. Professional cleaning helps to protect your carpet and upholstery and increase its life-span.  You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

When it comes to your commercial property, we mean business. You need a company that can minimize the disruption to your clients while delivering superior results. Whether you need professional cleaning to make your business shine, or emergency water restoration services, SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO offers cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include the following:

Places:

• Apartment Building
• Small Office Building
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• High-Rise Residential
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• Manufacturing & Industrial

 Services:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

Have Any Questions? Call Today – 215.368.4110!

Spring Thunderstorm Preparation

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

The American Red Cross reports that lightning causes more deaths than tornadoes and hurricanes.

While thunderstorms can vary in length and severity, every storm has the capability of  leaving a path of destruction, which can present safety risks to homes and businesses. Examples of the dangerous consequences of thunderstorms include downpours, hail, high winds, flash flooding, and downed trees and powerlines. The American Red Cross reports that lightning causes more deaths than tornadoes and hurricanes. With all this said, thunderstorm preparation is imperative in order to make sure that your residential property is ready for anything this spring. Continue reading to learn more about the steps that you can take to prevent storm damage from thunderstorms:

3 Thunderstorm Safety Tips

If you check out the Red Cross’ website, you’ll find full lists of safety tips for before, during, and after thunderstorms. In this blog, we’d like to highlight three of their tips that can help prevent storm damage. Firstly, because objects outside can be raised off of the ground by strong winds and function as projectiles, it is beneficial to devise a list of outdoor objects that can be brought inside before a thunderstorm. In order to protect your home from flying debris, make sure that your property’s doors and windows are sealed shut before the storm. Installing storm shutters over windows can also be helpful in avoiding unwanted damage. The final tip is to make an attempt to cut back tree branches and shrubbery before thunderstorms roll through your area this spring. Doing so can prevent branches from falling and coming into contact with your residence. 

Call SERVPRO for Expert Storm Damage Restoration

The three aforementioned tips from the Red Cross can decrease your chances of experiencing storm damage this spring, but there is always a risk with every storm. Weather events are out of our control but, all the while, you can always rely on SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team - Team Wall to be there if the unthinkable happens. No matter where your property is located or how extensive the damage may be- we can handle it all. Trust our professional 24-Hour Emergency services to provide you with the quickest solution possible and make it “Like it never even happened.” You can also find more information about our many services, like our residential Storm Damage Restoration and Commercial Storm Damage Restoration, and the larger SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team by visiting our website.

What To Do After a Storm Has Passed

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

Even after the hurricane or storm has passed, its aftermath remains. During seasonal storms, high-speed winds remove materials off of your home causing flying debris, and heavy rainstorms could lead to flooding and water damage. Before leaving the safety and doing anything, you want to ensure that the storm has fully passed. Since the eye of the storm is calm and can span over miles, wait for official confirmation that the storm has fully passed before leaving your safe, interior room. 

After bad weather subsides, you'll want to bring your home back to its former condition as soon as possible. Regardless of the type of damage your property is facing, time is of the essence. The quicker the restoration process is able to begin, the quicker your home will be brought back to normal, lessening the impact to both you and your wallet. Below are a few tasks you can perform immediately to begin the storm damage restoration process: 

What Should You Do After a Storm?

1. Check Your Home for Damage

After the storm has passed, you should check your home and property to learn the extent of the damage, as not all of it will be immediately obvious. Possible damages could be: 

• Holes in the roof
• Split seams
• Missing, broken, or dented shingles
• Granules collecting in gutters or downspouts
• Leaks in your roof or ceiling
• Dents on vents, gutters, or flashing
• Cracked windows or broken window panes 

2. Contact Your Insurer

Homeowners' insurance policies typically cover repair costs for fallen trees, wind, hail, and water damage caused by storms, so call your insurer to let them know exactly what happened. You'll need to provide the policy number so be sure to have the paperwork on hand. Once you have filed a claim, an insurance adjuster will be scheduled to come out and visit the property and assess the scope of the damage. 

3. Take Pictures of the Damage 

If possible, go through the property and take pictures of any broken windows, standing water, and any other issues that have been caused by the storm. Make note of any missing siding, toppled trees, and any other exterior damage. Include images of the home prior to the storm damages for comparison, this could also be used to calculate how much money you will need for the storm damage restoration. 

3. Secure the Property 

Emergency service providers can put tarps on the roof to prevent water infiltration and fallen trees from your property. Board up windows to prevent water and pests from getting inside, and remove any debris in the yard that could be potential tripping hazards.  

4. Avoid Additional Home Damage Where Possible 

When it is time to start fixing your home, there may be some areas that you can handle yourself, if you can properly repair some damage you should begin immediately as you also seek professional help for the additional areas. Immediate repairs can help to prevent more damage, so acting quickly is key. 

SERVPRO of Warminster, Lansdale, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown is here to help and ready to respond to your storm damage restoration needs. If your home is damaged during a storm, our highly trained technicians will return your home to pre-storm condition and make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at 215.368.4110.  

What are Puff Back Fires and How Can They Happen?

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO at 215.368.4110!

Puff back fires happen when your oil burner is running and the product of combustion, natural gas, is released into the air. It can occur when a burner's hot exhaust pipe comes into contact with combustible materials like dry leaves or even just water vapor that already exists in the air. The fire burns through these materials, releasing more heat and gases into the atmosphere and causing a massive explosion that disrupts your heating system.

Causes of a Puff Back Fires

There are several causes of puff backfires. The following are some of them:

Burner is clogged

The most common cause is a clogged burner. It's imperative to check your burners regularly, more than once a month, especially when it's cold outside. If your burner has formed a clog and you don't remove it, your system will not run as efficiently, and the chances of puff backfire increase.

Improper combustion

Another common cause of puff backfires is improper combustion. It occurs when there's not enough air or too much air is being fed into your burner. You must keep the burning process in a particular state to prevent the fire from overly combusting, which can cause a puff to backfire.

Chimney is clogged

There are many ways for a chimney to become clogged, but one of the most common is when too much ash builds up in the bottom. It is caused by an inefficient combustion process in your burner, which results in excessive ash being left over.

Low oxygen levels

Another cause of puff backfires is having too low oxygen levels in your air supply. When oxygen levels are too low, your combustion process cannot burn properly, and a puff will occur. Most boilers or furnaces have a mechanism that detects low oxygen levels and will shut off the device to prevent a fire, but you must check the levels yourself.

Gas leaks

Gas is not very compressible, and when it leaks into the air, it causes an increase in pressure which results in a puff backfire. It is most likely caused by the leak coming from your gas pipe. It could be the result of poor installation or poor maintenance.

Safety Measures

Proper installation and maintenance

You have to have a burner that is properly installed and maintained to avoid puff backfires. The best way to do this is to have a professional install your system because they are better trained. It will also reduce the chances that you have a gas leak or a clogged burner.

Reduce combustible materials

You should decrease the amount of combustible materials around your home. It would help keep your yard neat and tidy to avoid getting a puff to backfire from dry leaves and dead branches.

Proper ventilation

Another preventive measure is to have proper ventilation when using your fireplace or heating system. You should keep the windows open if you are in a room with an operating fireplace. It's also a good idea to keep an exhaust fan on while your system is running.

Use of safety shut-offs

You can also have a safety shut-off installed on your system. It will shut down the oil burner in case of low oxygen levels or a clogged chimney.

Puff back fires are very dangerous and can cause a lot of damage to your home. They are also preventable if you take the proper precautions. There are several reasonable safety measures that you can take, but it's best to have a professional come in and inspect your system if you have any doubts.

Do You Know Where Your Water Shut-Off Valves Are?

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

One of the things many of us take for granted is our home, or more specifically, how our home just always "works" and doesn't fail us.

Until that unfortunate day when your home does fail you. There are many ways you might experience a breakdown in your home, but one of the most damaging is when your plumbing, piping, or water delivery system fails. Or perhaps it's not even the plumbing itself that failed, but a water-fed appliance, such as your dishwasher, washing machine, refrigerator, or even your water heater.

It is mind-boggling to see the amount of untold damage and the speed at which damage happens when a pipe or appliance breaks. Think what damage could happen when you are in the home when the failure occurs. Now think how much initial damage and secondary damage will occur if you aren't there? What will happen and how long will it go on if you are gone on for several hours or even out of town over the weekend?

Water will continue to flow through your piping and out at the point of failure until it is stopped, or turned off. Water will continue to pour into your home, damaging the room, the floor, the walls, perhaps the ceiling, and all the contents, furniture, and belongings in that room. And possibly even flowing into and damaging the next room or the floor below.

If ever a pipe bursts or a water-fed appliance fails in your home (or business), the very first step you must take is to turn off the water! This could be a localized shut-off valve, such as below a sink or behind a toilet or refrigerator or other appliance, or you may need to turn off the main water valve to your home.

Unfortunately, very few homeowners (or business owners) take the time to learn where their emergency shut-off valves are, but knowing where the valves are and how to turn them off can greatly minimize the amount of damage done to property and belongings if a pipe bursts or appliance fails. 

Turning your water off before you leave for an extended period of time such as a vacation or the weekend can seem like such a small and unlikely preparation, and yet that act alone can be the difference between avoiding disaster entirely or thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars in damage to your home or business.

Take the time to educate yourself where these shut-off valves are. Remember to shut the water off before you leave for prolonged periods of time to give yourself that extra measure of protection.

Whether you are home if it happens or not, should disaster strike and you find a burst water pipe or failed appliance has left you with a soggy mess, FIRST SHUT OFF YOUR WATER VALVE, then call on the professionals of SERVPRO of Glenview to mitigate, cleanup, and restore your home or business.

How Can I Prevent Damage in My Retail Space?

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO responds quickly to your business's fire, water, or mold damage emergencies.

For a business owner, the well-being of your establishment is and should be extremely important to you. Because when a problem arises it will be up to both you and your employees to care of the situation as soon as possible. Here are a few things you, as a business owner, can do to help prevent damage.

Prevent Severe Mold Damage

The best way to prevent mold damage from occurring is to be aware of the conditions in which your business is operating. This is taking note of everything from effective mopping techniques, preventing excess water from lingering, to watching humidity levels throughout the day. If you see any signs of mold growth, it’s crucial to address this as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your business from occurring.

Prevent Severe Water Damage

Similar with mold, water damage occurs due to excessive moisture and water. This may seem like common sense but we sometimes overlook minor issues that appear insignificant. To prevent water from infiltrating and harming your business, make sure to look for signs of excess water on the floor, behind walls, in the ceiling and any other surface. This can be evident by seeing dark or dried water spots, warped flooring, peeling or bubbling paint and wall paper, or noticing an order. It’s important to handle these warning signs before they become a major issue.

Prevent Severe Fire Damage

To prevent fire damage, it’s important to know your business’s fire risks. We strong recommend against allowing employees to light candles. Open flames, dry air and clutter can all eventually contribute to a fire. Be sure not to overload electrical outlets and keep them clear of clutter.

If your business suffers a loss, call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown at 215.368.4110.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

At SERVPRO our number one priority is getting your business back in operation as quickly as possible. When disaster strikes your retail space, you need the expertise of a specialized team who is trained to limit business interruption. At SERVPRO our team is able to work around unaffected areas and after hours, allowing you to keep your doors open. Our expert teams have the experience of working with retailers to make sure surfaces, displays and merchandise are restored to preloss condition, and you’re back to business as usual.

Our experience in the retail industry means we’re proficient in the cleanup and restoration of all types of facilities including:

• National Chain Stores
• Supermarkets
• Shopping Malls
• Small Businesses
• Department Stores
• Specialty Retailers

The retail world is numbers- driven. So is the one company more businesses call on when fire or water damage threatens their bottom line. SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown. The #1 Choice in Commercial Cleanup and Restorat

How Does SERVPRO Deodorize a Business After a Fire?

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage services by SERVPRO are top notch. Their techs are IICRC certified for fire restoration.

Our technicians battle fire damage with an arsenal of professional deodorizing methods

When a business experiences a fire, smoke can travel quickly through a building. This spreads foul odors into areas not touched directly by the fire. Removing the terrible smell is a vital part of fire damage restoration. 

Professional and Experienced Intervention

If your business is impacted by fire damage, it can be devastating. It means loss of business and income if you are closed for any length of time. Water extraction and various restoration processes are used to restore your venture to preloss condition. One of the main things we deal with is the smell. Our technicians use several professional techniques for odor removal, including:

•   ULV Fogger – A wet fogging method. Low-pressure air is produced that disperses water droplets throughout to remove odor.
•   Thermal Foggers – A dry fogging method. A deodorant solution gets vaporized by the fogger and sprayed into the area.
•   Ozone Generator – Ozone is produced by the machine, which oxidizes the odors. Nothing living can be in the area when this method gets used. 

Our team follows strict safety protocols when using any of the above methods. For surface material that has lingering smells, special sealants are used to seal in the residue. The surface can then be painted.

For professional commercial fire damage services in your area, contact SERVPRO at 215.368.4110. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Water Removal and Drying Means a Call to SERVPRO!

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help! Call us at 215.368.4110!

A water mishap might seem simple to clean up in your home. Unfortunately, a mop and bucket or the wet/dry vacuum used to clean the garage or workshop are not likely to deliver the results needed quickly or thoroughly enough. The damage moisture, seen and unseen, can do to your dwelling requires professional intervention. Our crews are quick to respond and thorough as they work to mitigate and restore the damage water can inflict.

Floors are one of the components in your home that are most vulnerable from water damage. Advanced water removal and drying techniques mastered by our technicians in IICRC courses produce remarkable results for our residential customers. A key to the best outcome is requesting an assessment as soon as you note the damage. Our crews respond 24/7, every day of the year because water damage increases in severity the longer the wait.

Our seasoned managers and crew lead assess the damage to your house, closely inspecting the floors where the wetness tends to collect. SERVPRO® crews arrive with the equipment needed to address the damage, using pumps and extractors to remove visible water and then utilizing moisture meters to determine the extent of the water migration. We then turn to other strategies to reduce moisture to normal levels in both building materials, contents, and ambient humidity

Depending on any contamination in the water, rugs and carpeting might be removed, for cleaning and drying elsewhere or disposal. Some carpeting responds well to in-place drying, and our workers have the skills and heavy-duty weighted wand extractors to complete that task. You can rely upon SERVPRO’s expertise in deciding the needed action for your floor coverings. We have perfected the "float a carpet" technique for salvaging floor covers that our customers thought were lost.

Tile, concrete, and vinyl flooring often recover well from water damage. Laminate floors frequently require removal and replacement, but the hardwood floors you treasure can return to “Like it never even happened,” condition if SERVPRO employs methods such as drying mats, top and bottom focused air movement, and other carefully considered strategies. Removing surface sealants, drilling holes, and lifting planks to direct warm air flow can all help in the hands of professional water damage technicians. We can even enter crawlspace foundations to dry the floor joists and boards from below.

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is ready to bring your floors and their coverings back from water damage caused by a range of sources. Call 215.368.4110 as soon as possible for the most successful outcome.

SERVPRO - Protect Your Family From Water Damage

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure to cover all your bases!

Owning a home is full of responsibilities. Mortgage payments, insurance policies, and landscaping are but a few of the items we need to pay attention to keep the roof over our heads. However, sometimes, we are responsible for the homes of our loved ones as well. Have you ever thought that your elderly relative may need professional help in keeping up with his or her home? It is not uncommon for an older person to be unaware of water damage on their property until it is too late. 

SERVPRO is here to help. With our Green Fleet, you can rest assured that you are receiving the benefit of formal education in water damage restoration along with the know-how from being out on the field. Our water restoration technicians (WRT) apply the latest methodologies to removing excess water from your home and restoring it to mint condition. 

The most crucial step homeowners need to take is calling our 24/7 hotline. The damage to your home worsens with every minute the water is left unattended, potentially causing buckling of wood floors, a saturation of drywall and complete loss of carpet and upholstery. Our goal is to minimize your losses and prevent future problems, such as the proliferation of mold. Depending on the severity of your event, our SERVPRO team may pick one or several tools to extract water from your home. These might include- 

-Truck mounted pump 

-Submersible pump 

-Drying mats 

-Extraction wand 

-Dehumidifiers 

Regardless of the size of the problem, SERVPRO is here to help. Even when you feel like you can handle the extraction and drying yourself, equipment available at your local hardware store could leave behind water deposits invisible to the naked eye, posing a risk for the future. 

Protect your home and your loved ones by calling a professional team when there is water damage. SERVPRO is available at 215.368.4110 and ready to spring into action. Call us and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened." 

Do you know what is in your water?

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

Did you know that the water either coming into your home or from your home due to busted pipes or leaks has what we call a “category”? When it comes to handling mitigation in your home it is better to allow the professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown to deal with the emergency because you have to treat the water correctly to be safe. You never know what is either in your water or what the water has passed through to create contamination.

The information below explains the main types of water damage and could help you identify the problem quickly if it ever happens to you.

Category One: Clear Water

This water is the cleanest, most non-toxic form of water damage. It is potable water, perhaps directly from the tap. It is unlikely to cause you any harm, even if you are exposed for some time. Nevertheless, even clean flooding can lead to electrical and structural faults, so it is safer for you to call in the experts for repairs. Clean water comes from things like a broken water supply line, tub or sinks overflow with no contaminants, appliance malfunctions involving water-supply lines to name a few. However, once clean water leaves the exit point, it might not remain clean after contacting other surfaces or materials. Although it is considered the "safest" of the categories, it can degrade to category 2 or 3 if left untreated.

Category Two: Gray Water 

Gray water damage is a little bit more serious and requires a speedier removal process. This is because it may contain potentially unsafe levels of chemicals, microorganisms, or dirt. Examples of Cat 2 water include, but are not limited to: overflow from dishwashers or washing machines; overflows from toilet bowls with urine; seepage due to hydrostatic pressure and broken aquariums.
If left untreated, it can quickly degrade into category 3.

Category Three: Black Water

Cat 3 water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Cat 3 water can include, but are not limited to: sewage; toilet backflows from beyond the trap; flooding from seawater, rivers or streams, ground surface water, or other contaminated water entering the indoor environment.

The team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington is skilled in the safe handling of the different categories through training and protective clothing to eliminate the risk of sickness.

What is Pack-out and Content Restoration?

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Call the experts in fire damage restoration at 215.368.4110.

When you have fire damage at your home or business, our team can properly catalog your belongings and perform what is called a “pack-out”.  Our technicians treat the items from your home or business with respect and empathy while ensuring your belongings are handled with care.

When you have fire damage at your home or business, our team can properly catalog your belongings and perform what is called “pack-out”.  Our technicians treat the items from your home or business with respect and empathy while ensuring your belongings are handled with care.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Birmingham can conduct an organized, efficient plan of action.  Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• Quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs.

Content Restoration

If your belongings are affected by fire damage, we can restore them with content restoration.  SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown has the expertise and a "restore" versus "replace" mentality that can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that cannot be replaced.  Our team of professionals will pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to preloss condition.  We use several methods of cleaning your contents including:

• Dry Cleaning -used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to we cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning -An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can not withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning -used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning -Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning -Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

4 Tips for Preparing Your Business for Flood

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Prepare you building for flooding.

Floods can be and are often unpredictable. Heavy rains and overflowing bodies of water are just two common causes of flooding. Different areas of the country have different levels of flood risks. It's impossible to be totally prepared for every possibility, but there are measures you can take to make a significant difference in the event a disaster occurs.

4 Ways to Prepare Your Business for Flood

1. Create an Emergency Kit

Create an emergency kit with all the essentials stocked in case of a flood. It should include a well-supplied first aid kit, medicines, non-perishable food, a can opener, eating utensils, bottled water, flashlights, a battery-powered radio, spare batteries, blankets and any essential phone numbers.

2. Assess Your Insurance

Call your insurance agent to ensure you have enough of the correct insurance type to provide an adequate coverage amount for whatever might occur. See if you can add coverage for flooding, as well as business interruption coverage. This can cover you from property destruction, black water cleanup and sanitization, and lost revenue if the business has to shut down for a while. As water damage restoration professionals return the building to its preloss condition, you can continue to pay your employees.

3. Design an Emergency Evacuation Plan

Some roads will be blocked by high water or debris, such as downed tree limbs during a flood. Check with the Federal Emergency Management Agency for topography maps of your area. This provides a way to plan alternate routes for your employees to navigate home safely.

4. Backup Important Documents and Data

All of your important documents, whether digital or paper documents, must be backed up. These include insurance documents, employee files, vendor contact information, contracts, etc. You should save digital files to the cloud and make copies of paper documents to be kept off-site.

Whether your building's location is particularly susceptible to flooding or not, you must be prepared for flood damage for your employees' safety and the preservation of your business.

What Can I Expect During Storm Damage Restoration?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Be ready for Storm Damage Restoration by following these tips. If any doubt arises, just contact us.

A heavy rainstorm in our area, can quickly wreak havoc on your home. Blowing wind and flooding water are often the main concerns during a storm and tend to cause the most destruction. As a result, wind and rain can lead to roof damage requiring a temporary tarp, water damage requiring tear out, and various other remediation strategies. You must take fast action to minimize loss. This usually involves:

• Notifying your insurance company
• Documenting the damage in detail
• Mitigating damage until restoration can begin
• Calling professionals for cleanup and repair

Once the professionals arrive on the scene, you will be on the road to restoration. Depending on the amount and type of damage sustained, techniques can vary, but you can typically expect some particular aspects as a rule.

Professional Restoration Procedures

When you hire storm restoration experts, they will usually go through standard procedures for water cleanup. You will notice the technicians:

1. Wearing Personal Protective Equipment

Your remediation team will wear personal protective gear for their own safety and prevent cross-contamination to unaffected areas of the house. They will generally wear head coverings, safety glasses, respirators, water-proof coveralls, water-proof gloves, and water-proof shoe coverings or boots.

2. Extracting Standing Water

The team will extract all of the standing water and some of the debris using industrial-grade pumps. This is a quick, efficient method of removing the water to begin the subsequent phases of the restoration.

3. Tearing Out Wet Materials

Everything will probably have to be removed from the affected area. Clearing the space of furniture and other contents will provide more room to work and will make it easier to clean and dry. It will also make it easier to sort out what's salvageable from what's not. This process will include the tear out of wet materials, which often includes carpet, carpet padding, portions of the drywall and sometimes part of the subfloor.

4. Cleaning and Sanitizing

Then, it's time to clean and sanitize the affected area and all of the salvageable contents. If it's not cleaned and sanitized thoroughly, you run the risk of growing bacteria and mold, both of which can be damaging to people, possessions, and even a house's structure.

5. Drying the Contents and Structure

In addition to a thorough cleaning, everything also needs to be dried completely. Even if it's adequately cleaned but left damp, mold spores are virtually everywhere, so mold can begin growing within 24 hours. If the mold gets out of control, it could turn into a worse problem than the water damage itself. Your restoration team will likely use industrial-grade fans, dehumidifiers and heat sources to promote drying.

Next time a strong storm hits your home, you will understand better what actions to take if damage occurs. You will also have a better idea of what to expect from the cleanup crew. Depending on the extent of the loss, it could take a day of work if it requires minor restoration. However, restoration could last several months if there is a lot of damage requiring tear out and structural repair. Either way, they'll make sure they return your home to its previous condition.

Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO with your Biohazard clean up! Call us at 215.368.4110.

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington is fully licensed, bonded, and insured to provide biohazard cleanup services. We understand the precise disposal of biohazard waste and are discreet and professional  after any trauma or crime scene event. Known nationwide for our professionalism and courtesy. We work with all city agencies and your insurance to provide a smooth hands off process for our clients.

What is Biohazard Cleanup?

Blood and other bodily waste can contain diseases known as bloodborne pathogens. Cleaning of a crime scene or trauma is done by professionals and is covered by most insurance companies. It is important to have a professional licensed mitigator on site to ensure proper cleaning and disposal of affected materials. Trust SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington to get your property cleaned and decontaminated.

How To Successfully Navigate Your Flood Insurance Claim

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

After flood damage in your home, contact a professional to know what to do.

When home has been affected by flood damage, knowing which steps to take and how to prioritize those actions can be crucial. Along the way, you'll deal with many professionals who are involved in the recovery process:

• Insurance agents
• Adjusters
• Building inspectors
• Cleanup and recovery technicians

Each step of the recovery process will proceed more smoothly as you communicate and coordinate well with these service providers, especially if you fully understand your flood insurance coverage.

Working With Flood Insurance Professionals While Representing Yourself

It's important to remember that the main priority of some of these professionals, such as insurance agents and adjusters, is to keep their costs low. When it comes to making sure that quality services, procedures, and goods are being used, you are the primary person responsible.

Tips for Working With Your Insurance Agent

You may receive advice telling you to wait to make repairs until after an insurance representative or adjuster visits your property. This is a tough situation because the insurance company may give you trouble for taking action before inspections. However, it doesn't take long for water damage to get worse, increasing the costs of cleanup and repairs.

• Take action immediately. Contact your insurance company right away, request a certified copy of your flood insurance policy, and ask about the best way to submit proof of loss.
• Keep a detailed, written record of every conversation you have with the insurance company. Your record should include the date, the time, names of the people you talked to, and the gist of the conversation.
• Reach out to third-party professionals for damage estimates. It's best to have at least three to be sure you get enough money for the necessary repairs.
• Document everything before beginning any cleanup efforts. Take pictures and videos of all damage, keep receipts, and write up any explanations.
• Hold onto damaged items to show the insurance company.

Tips for Working With Adjusters

The insurance adjuster works on behalf of the insurance company and will be looking for ways to keep your claim low. Adjusters are also very busy, so you may have a long wait until the professional shows up. You may have better success if you hire a public adjuster to represent you as you work with professionals from your insurance company.

• Save copies of the pictures, videos, and written descriptions to share with adjusters.
• Provide pictures of your home before the damage happened.
• Contact a realtor for a copy of the most current property inspector's appraisal and findings.
• Obtain appraisals from your mortgage provider and other lenders.
• Start preparing an itemized list of everything in your home that was damaged, including items such as toiletries. Include detailed descriptions, brand names, costs, and whether you have receipts.

It may not be wise to start repairs before you have a go-ahead from the insurance company, but you can take emergency and mitigation steps. These include hiring an emergency cleanup and mitigation company to remove standing water, move soaked materials to a dry place, and board up doors and windows. These services that prevent mold damage and other secondary harm may well be covered by your flood insurance policy.

Do you Have a Stubborn odor that Cannot be Removed?

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Whether it’s a smoky smell in a vehicle, or a locker room full of stinky equipment, we’ve got odor solutions for any size job.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be tricky, but as pros in deodorization, we're able to take care of it.

SERVPRO of Farmington and Farmington Hills can help identify and remove the odor. We have several odor removal products to help remove offensive odors. One technique used for stubborn odors is an Ozone generator to destroy stubborn odors, such as tobacco, soot, animal, and mildew odors. Many deodorizers simply mask odors, but an Ozone generator can remove the odor. 

How does an Ozone generator work?

Ozone reacts to the odors through an oxidation process to change the molecular structure. 

Are there dangers when using an Ozone generator?

The area being treated by an Ozone generator must be free from humans, pets, and plants.  The treated space must then be circulated with fresh air before people and pets can go in.

An Ozone generator can be a safe and effective tool to remove stubborn odors. Our technicians are highly trained with years of experience, call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown at 215.368.4110 to safely eliminate odors from your home or business.

Accidents Happen - Fire Damage Repair and Restoration

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110, we would love to help!

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington takes on the challenge of removing soot from all surfaces in a local home.

The homeowner was using a shop vacuum to clean up the soot in the fireplace not realizing that the filter for the shop vacuum was not attached.  With the amount of soot spread throughout the home, she knew she would not be able to clean up the home on her own. She knew that hiring a professional soot damage restoration company that has experience is the best approach.

We use specialized equipment, chemicals, and techniques to remove soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. In areas of the home with severe damage, we use multiple techniques to restore the home.  Crews hepa vacuum all surfaces to remove soot, dry sponges to wipe surfaces that could not be wet washed, and the carpeting was steam cleaned.   

Our Restore vs. Replace Mentality

We clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. Our “restore first” mentality reduces interruption and gets you back to your life.

If you need Fire Damage Repair and Restoration your call is at 215-368-4110.

Our Team Is "Highly Trained"

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110! We would love to help!

Throughout our page you will often see us refer to our team as “highly qualified” or “highly trained”. That is because we take every effort to ensure our staff is thoroughly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

IICRC Training: The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training: The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration

Initial Franchise Training: A 15-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course is primarily for new Franchise owners and covers many restoration topics:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation

e-Learnings: All of our staff have access to web-based training. This voluntary program is designed to be an ongoing, self-paced coaching series for a Franchise's employees. Video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect.

Continuing Education Classes: SERVPRO offers both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and Franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. Courses include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
• Restorative Drying for Loss Control
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)

4 Tip For Drying Out A Commercial Building

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

If your building floods, it and its contents need to be thoroughly dried as soon as possible.

When your commercial building suffers water incursion, whether it's from a pipe burst or act of nature, the same basic steps will have to be taken. These steps will help protect any occupants in the affected area and the building and its contents. Professionals will probably have to be called in to remedy the situation thoroughly. Still, you can follow water damage tips to begin drying out the building before help arrives. After all, the quicker drying begins, the less damage will occur.

1. Turn Off Electricity

If you can safely make your way to the breaker box, the power to the area should be turned off immediately. Never walk through standing water in which electrical items are sitting. The electricity can travel throughout the water, electrocuting you. If you can't navigate to the breaker safely, or if you're unsure, you must wait for a professional to cut the power supply.

2. Extract Standing Water

Next, all the standing water will need to be extracted. A wet/dry vacuum is excellent for doing this safely and efficiently. It will also remove smaller debris.

3. Remove Soaked Materials

After you've extracted as much water as possible, one of the most critical damage tips to follow is to remove as many wet materials as possible. This can even include drywall and flooring. Soaked carpet and padding typically aren't salvageable; it can't be dried entirely before mold growth occurs (within 24 to 48 hours). Water damage remediation experts are highly recommended, as they can bring in industrial-grade equipment.

4. Dry Remaining Contents

You can try to dry the remaining contents by opening windows and doors if the outside is less humid than inside, using dehumidifiers, running fans and turning up the heat via the HVAC system or space heaters.

If your building floods, it and its contents need to be thoroughly dried as soon as possible. These are a few damage tips and cleaning tips you can begin before professionals arrive on the scene.

3 Tips for Reducing the Risk of Space Heater Fires

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Space heaters are portable devices designed to heat single rooms rather than entire houses.

Using space heaters can be a convenient way to keep certain areas of your home cozy, especially those that do not receive enough heat from the furnace or are located on an outer ground floor. While these units can be handy, they might also increase the risk of a fire and a burned space heater. Keeping a few safety tips in mind can help you reduce the possibility of space heater fires and ensure your family’s well-being.

1. Give the Unit Space

One of the most common causes of space heater fires is putting heaters in an area where they do not have enough room for proper heat flow. This can cause the unit to overheat and start a fire. Putting a heater in an enclosed space can also cause objects around it to catch fire, such as bedding, clothing and other fabrics. The risk is usually highest in the bedroom, where blankets and stuffed toys can fall off the bed and onto the heater and spark a blaze. A fire and smoke cleanup service can advise you about the best placement for your space heater.

2. Ground the Plug at a Wall Outlet

Most space heaters are designed to operate from one electrical socket. As such, plugging them into an extension cord or a multi-socket power strip may cause them to overheat. This may start at the plug itself, which can melt it or the cord. Overheating at the power source may also cause a power surge, which can result in a burned space heater or a fire.

3. Set Your Heater on a Stable Surface

When you first buy a space heater, it is important that you read all instructions and set your unit on a stable surface instead of a table or other object. If the surface is unstable, the unit can be knocked over and come into contact with flammable objects.

Space heaters can make your home comfortable. However, knowing how to use them safely is important to protect your family from the threat of a burned space heater or a devastating fire.

The Risks Of Mold Growth

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Don't waste time, call and have the Professionals do the job right the first time.

Mold is a serious concern for your home. While you might have seen this occur in your home throughout your life growing up, namely in the dark and moisture ridden basement, mold is better understood today. With potential health effects linked to exposure, removing active colonies growing in your residence should be a priority upon discovery.

However, there are reasons why you should resolve to remove mold damage in your home quickly. The better that you can appreciate the harmful effects that this fungal colony has on the contents and the structural integrity of your home, the more prepared you are to combat it on sight.

Fortunately, this microbial growth is not one that you have to face alone. Our remediators at SERVPRO have the unique training to prepare them for all varieties of mold growth and the best approaches to remove the colonies. This experience and expertise prove invaluable in fully removing mold and its damages from your residence.

One of the initial things that you must realize is the simplicity with which mold can grow. The only necessary ingredients to this hazardous presence are moisture and warmth. Spores naturally exist in the environment inside of your home on a microscopic level but only have the opportunity to seat once the other conditions get met in the affected area.

This mold growth can occur in as little as 72 hours once the conditions get met. The colonization occurs on organic materials within this area such as drywall, flooring, the contents of the room, or other construction materials. Within a brief period, the thriving colony can degrade the material and weaken it to the point of ineffectiveness.

Once you can appreciate both the potential health effects and the structural concerns of mold growth in your home, you can appreciate the importance of resolving the issue quickly. Our SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown applied microbial remediation technicians can arrive quickly and remove this hazardous presence effectively. You can reach our team at SERVPRO 24/7 at 215.353.7100.

Springtime Preparation

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110. We'd love to help!

Spring is on it's way! As the weather warms up and the seasons change, we should prepare for the spring time as best we can. Here are some tips on how to get your home ready for this spring season!

Check/Service your Lawn Care Equipment. Cleaning up your lawn mower and changing the oil helps you to start fresh once its time to put it to use again.

Clean Patio Furniture. Dust off your outdoor tables and wash your patio cushions. You are going to want them ready for relaxing once the weather is nice!

Clear Your Gutters. After the fall season and then the wintery weather, your gutters probably could use a little attention. Clear out anything in your gutters to prevent mold or weeds growing up there.

Change Filters. HVAC filters should be checked/changed seasonally in order to ensure proper air quality in your home.

Minimizing Water Damage from Flooding

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

The Federal Emergency Management Association states that flooding “is the most common and costly disaster in the United States.”

While flooding can occur any time of year, hurricane season often amplifies the risk of flooding as a result of strong storms. The Federal Emergency Management Association states that flooding “is the most common and costly disaster in the United States.” In order to decrease water damage due to flooding, FEMA recommends taking three distinct steps, “Know Your Risk”, “Insure Your Property”, and “Reduce Your Risk.” Continue reading for a list of helpful tips when it comes to protecting your home or business from flood damage that comply with FEMA’s standards. 

Preventative Measures Inside and Outside

Inside and outside of your residential or commercial property, there are steps that you can take to prevent flood damage well in advance or immediately a storm rolls in. Inside, crucial documents and objects can be secured in water-tight containers, placed in elevated locations. In this way, these important items can be kept safe from permanent damage in a flood. Critical equipment and utilities, including your property’s HVAC unit, within your home or business may benefit from being elevated about one foot off of the ground. This step can also be taken outside with outdoor air conditioning units or heat pumps in order to protect them from potentially disastrous flood damage. Finally, the simple act of clearing your gutters of debris on a regular basis can make all the difference in protecting your property from flood damage, as doing so keeps gutters from clogging and gives rainwater a route to drain properly. 

Call SERVPRO for Professional Storm Damage Restoration

It is impossible to eliminate the risk of storm damage as a result of flooding, even with preventative measures in place. Nevertheless, taking steps to minimize flood damage, such as those outlined in this blog as well as Ready.gov’s recommendations, can go a long way in preventing irreversible damage. In the event that your residential or commercial property experiences storm damage resulting from a flood this summer, know that SERVPRO of Warminster, Lansdale, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown has your back and is ready to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 215.368.4110 for immediate assistance or visit our website for more information about our storm resources, such as our Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration and Commercial Storm Damage Restoration services, as well as our Water and Storm Damage Tips.

Kitchen Cooking Safety: 3 Tips

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your kitchen and the rest of your home from the destructive nature of fire damage by educating yourself on kitchen fire safety best practices.

“The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking,” according to the National Fire Protection Agency. They also report that the appliance most commonly involved in kitchen fires is your stovetop, but kitchen fires can stem from a variety of sources if improperly monitored. Altogether eliminating the possibility of an unwanted fire igniting is virtually impossible, but you can best protect your kitchen and the rest of your home from the destructive nature of fire damage by educating yourself on kitchen fire safety best practices. Continue reading to learn more about 3 of the NFPA’s cooking fire safety tips.

1. Don’t Stray Too Far from the Kitchen

There are different recommendations based on what kind of cooking activity you are conducting in the kitchen. Stovetop activities, such as frying, boiling, broiling, and grilling, require you to stay in the kitchen for the entire process so that you can monitor the area and take action immediately if a fire ignites. If a situation arises that requires you to leave the kitchen for any amount of time, it is strongly advised that you turn the stove off completely. Contrastingly, cooking activities that require more cooking time, including roasting, baking, and simmering, may be safe to leave the kitchen, but only for short periods of time. If you must leave the kitchen, it is a good idea to regularly check in and set a timer in order to decrease the risk of fire.

2. Know What to Do When an Oven Fire Occurs

We’ve discussed what to do in the event of a stovetop fire, but what is the best course of action for dealing with an oven fire? Suppose something that you’re baking catches fire in your oven. The NFPA suggests that you turn the heat off as soon as possible and do not open the oven door until the fire is extinguished. Opening the door may facilitate the spread of the fire. If the fire does not go out on its own, call 911 immediately.

3. Keep Your Cooking Area Clear of Flammable Objects

All around your cooking area, you may possibly find a wide variety of flammable objects that are not necessarily out of place. By an oven, there are usually oven mitts, which are flammable, as well as towels and wooden utensils. These are all helpful tools when cooking, but they can also facilitate the quick spread of an unwanted fire in the event that one ignites. In order to prevent any unwanted fires from spreading, it is beneficial to keep flammable kitchen objects and tools tucked away, stored in cabinets or drawers when not in use. 

Experienced a Fire? Call SERVPRO

No matter what kind of fire your home or business may experience, know that SERVPRO of Warminster, Lansdale, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown is just a call away. If your property sustains fire damage to any degree, call us at 215.368.4110 for immediate assistance. Here at SERVPRO, we are committed to making your property damage “Like it never even happened.” By visiting our website, you can also learn more about our Fire Damage Restoration services, tailored to both residential and commercial properties in order to best meet your needs. Additionally, you can find more information about our other fire-related cleaning services, including Odor Removal and Deodorization. Be sure to also check out our best Fire Damage Tips.

4 Essential Steps That SERVPRO Takes During the Fire Restoration Process

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO if you are dealing with smoke and soot damage after a fire.

If a fire occurs in your building, it's vital that you take action quickly. One of the most important steps to take in beginning the restoration process, which SERVPRO is experienced at helping with. If you'd like to know more, here are four essential steps that SERVPRO takes during the fire restoration process.

1. Inspecting for Damage
One of the most important parts of restoration is inspecting the damage. By doing so, experts can determine the best course of action. Not only is this beneficial to the restoration process, but it may save you money if the damage is determined to be minimal. Here's what the fire restoration experts at SERVPRO generally look for:

• Smoke damage
• Soot damage
• Size of the fire
  
  

2. Stabilizing Vulnerable Areas
When a building has experienced a fire, it's likely that it will have some damaged structural parts. These are things like roofs, windows, and walls. In order to prevent further damage to your building (which would delay the fire rebuild), SERVPRO workers can stabilize these areas. Windows and walls can be boarded up, while a tarp may be laid over a roof.

3. Cleaning Damaged Items
Unfortunately, many of your items may be damaged during a fire. An essential part of fire restoration is getting your building back to its previous state, so SERVPRO has various cleaning techniques for restorable items.

4. Getting Rid of Smoke and Soot
After a fire, smoke, and soot may become entrenched in surfaces like ceilings and walls. This could cause a whole new series of problems, from discoloration to metal corrosion. Since SERVPRO has particular techniques and equipment available, this problem may be dealt with efficiently.
Experiencing a fire can be overwhelming. However, it's important not to give up or sink into despair. SERVPRO can help you get your building as close to normalcy as possible, even if rebuilding services are needed.

5 Steps of the Mold Mitigation Process

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110 for your mold mitigation needs!

It is not uncommon for a home that has sustained water damage to also develop black mold. If you discover mold in your home, you will likely need the services of mold remediation experts. These certified technicians take care of your mold problem and get your home back to normal, and they use the following five steps to do so.

1. Protection

Before they begin the mold cleanup process, technicians don protective gear to cover their eyes, nose, mouth and skin. This keeps the increased number of spores in the air out of their airways and sensitive membranes.

2. Containment

To take control of the black mold problem, the specialists must make sure it doesn't contaminate other areas of the house. They restrict air flow from the damaged section and seal it off with thick plastic sheets.

3. Demolition

If mold has attacked a wall or other porous surface, the area will have to be replaced, but first, it must be torn out. Clearing out the parts that have mold damage is essential to fixing the problem.

4. Sanitation

The remaining structures must be sanitized before it's safe for family member and pets to reenter the home. Technicians may use anti-microbial chemicals to neutralize any germs that are present. They may also use gamma irradiation to sanitize documents or books.

5. Dehydration

This term is bad news when applied to a person, but when applied to a house, particularly one that has prior mold issues, it can be a godsend. A dry environment is less likely to be hospitable to mold.

A black mold problem in your home is best handled by certified professionals who specialize in mold remediation. They have the knowledge and the tools to work through the steps of the process efficiently. They can quickly assess the situation, answer any questions you have and decrease the chances of mold growth returning.

Understanding a Flood Cut

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Call us when you have a flood emergency! 215.368.4110

Unless you have experienced past house flooding or are an experienced home renovator, there is a good chance that you do not have the phrase “flood cut” in your vocabulary. For the typical homeowner, many questions come to mind when the water restoration specialist uses this expression after assessing the storm damage in your home.

What Does “Flood Cut” Mean?

• A flood cut refers to the removal of drywall from the bottom portion of the rooms in your home that experienced water damage.
• Typically, this cut is made between 12 – 18 inches above where the water damage stopped.
• The restoration specialists then tear out the drywall below the flood cut line.

When Is a Flood Cut Necessary?

• After flooding, the excess water is removed from your house. However, there may be moisture behind the walls and the drywall may be damaged. Removal of the bottom portion of the wall allows the contractors access to the interior structures of your home.
• If there is contamination in the water that touches the drywall, such as from sewage backup, all affected walls require removal to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• When insulation is present behind water-damaged walls, it is necessary to remove the drywall because insulation cannot be properly dried out or replaced with the wall intact.

How Does a Flood Cut Work?

• Restoration contractors begin the flood cut process soon after water removal to prevent the formation and spread of mold, which can occur within 24 – 48 hours.
• The flood cut line is measured and determined before a laser level marks the wall. A tarp is placed to catch the debris, and the cut is made.
• Once the restoration specialists inspect behind the drywall, another cut may be needed if the damage is larger than expected.
• Damaged materials are removed and adequate ventilation is put in place.

By knowing the meaning of “flood cut”, you are one step closer to understanding the terminology used in your home’s recovery from flooding in our area. 

Commercial Water Loss Causes

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

Besides a natural disaster or large-scale storm, there are other potential causes for a water damage at your business. It is true that commercial water damages are often the result of weather events such as heavy rains and storms, however, there are regular maintenance issues that could cause damage to company equipment, inventory, and other valuable assets. Our SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown technicians are highly trained and knowledgeable in all of the possible causes for a water loss to occur in your commercial property.

Other Causes of Water Damage in Your Business:

• Sprinkler System Malfunction - Sprinkler systems are a must for businesses because it helps protect the building in fire emergencies, offering the first line of defense when smoke is detected. However, when the sprinkler system is outdated and showing signs of wear and tear, the sprinklers can malfunction and cause water damage to everything inside the building.
• Burst pipes– There are many reasons why pipes can burst and cause water damage. One potential reason could be an extremely cold day that can freeze the water in the pipes. Since water expands as it freezes, this expansion can crack and break the pipes that the water needs to flow through.
• Clogged sewer system– Another possible reason for a commercial water damage is toilets and sewer systems getting clogged. Toilets and sewer lines can get clogged very easily and when a sewer line is clogged, flooding can occur anytime someone flushes a toilet or pours water down a sink.
• Leaking roof– When the roof is not regularly checked and maintained, it can suffer damage from exposure to changing weather. Even if you are just experiencing a rainstorm, when your roof has a leak, it can become detrimental and damage the inside of your building.

If you have a water damage in your commercial property, call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown at 215.368.4110.

Three Things You Should Know if Your Building is Damaged By Flood Water

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110 to help with your flood damage!

During a storm in the Philadelphia area, it is possible that your building may be damaged by flood water if the weather becomes severe. Because this is not quite the same as other water damage, you may be unsure of how to deal with it. The following is some information about this type of water that might be helpful to you.

1. Why is a Flood Different From Other Water Damage?

The reason that flood water is different from others is largely due to how it accumulates. While most water damage, such as that from leaks or broken pipes, comes from above, the water in a flood rises from the ground. As it does, it becomes category 3 water.

2. What is Category 3 Water?

When it comes to water contamination, there are three categories. Category 3 or black water, which includes water from a flood, has the highest levels of contamination. Because this water comes up from the ground, it mixes with dirt, debris and sewage. When this happens, it begins to carry waste, bacteria and harmful chemicals that can be hazardous to your health.

3. How Should You Handle It?

Because flood water is highly contaminated, it is not a good idea to try removing it on your own. Instead, you should hire a professional to thoroughly clean and sanitize the building. Any food or beverages that have been in contact with this water should be thrown away as they are no longer safe to consume. Protective gear should be worn at all times while handling category 3 water.

If your building has been affected by water or storm damage of any kind, you should have it taken care of right away to prevent it from becoming worse. If allowed to sit, moisture can contribute to mold growth and can cause materials to weaken. A professional cleanup and restoration company can sanitize the area, perform necessary repairs and salvage many affected items.

Why SERVPRO When Disaster Happens

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215-368-4110!

When a large storm hits, your clients may be in need of a local disaster recovery team in your area. A professional restoration service, such as SERVPRO, may be able to help. A recovery team has the ability to do a few things that may be just what your clients need.

Respond to Larger Than Normal Damages

Sometimes storm damage may be larger than predicted. When this happens, you may want a team of restoration professionals who can respond to your client's needs quickly. Fortunately, SERVPRO is a locally owned and operated franchise capable of working together with other SERVPRO teams to get the job done. However, as they are a franchise, they can call on corporate for additional resources as needed.

Provide a Quick Response Time

When it comes to disaster recovery, you may want to know that you can get a quick storm response team to your clients. The faster damage can be protected and then repaired, the less likely additional damage may occur. The ability to get a team to the site in a timely manner may save time and money in the long run. SERVPRO has local offices around the country allowing them to have professionals available at most locations.

Provide the Tools Necessary for Large Repair Jobs

In the event of a large disaster, it may be determined at large equipment is required to perform the job efficiently. A restoration team such as SERVPRO has access to the tools of the trade. This means that even in the case of a severe storm or major flooding, they can still begin restoration quickly.

A professional restoration service may be able to with any disaster recovery needs your clients may have. They usually have the ability to mobilize several teams for larger than normal damages. This may also include a faster response time. A professional team also has the resources, including tools and equipment, necessary to deal with large jobs.

Fire Safety Equipment: Five Pieces You Need for Your Home

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

A fire safety plan can also be helpful in the even of a fire.

Our homes may be our sanctuaries, but they also present multiple opportunities for fire danger. An unattended stovetop can result in a kitchen fire, while electrical systems and appliances can overheat. Fireplaces, candles, flammable liquids, and outdoor grills — to name just a few — all add to the risk.

Having the correct fire safety equipment in your house is essential to keep your family safe and your home protected. This article highlights the five most important pieces of equipment needed to safeguard your home and loved ones. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re prepared is worth the time, effort, and expense involved.

Smoke Alarms

This is your first line of defense. According to the Red Cross, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires all new homes to have inter-connected hard-wired smoke alarms with battery backup. If you don’t have an interconnected system, battery-powered alarms are easily installed. Both types of alarms need to be located on every level of the home with one inside each bedroom.

Fire Extinguishers

Since most home fires start in the kitchen, you’ll want to put a fire extinguisher in there, at a minimum. But it’s recommended to place them in multiple locations around the house. Since extinguishers from various makers all work differently, it’s a good idea for the adults in the household to get training from the local fire department. Extinguishers should be installed near exits, away from heat sources, and up high enough that kids can’t reach them.

Sprinkler Systems

While a smoke alarm will detect smoke, an automatic sprinkler system gives you a way of dealing with flames immediately. While you’re waiting on the fire department to arrive, sprinklers can help slow a fire’s progress or can even douse it completely. Moreover, a sprinkler system can prevent deadly gases and smoke from affecting your family and could also extinguish a fire that breaks out while you’re away from home.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

There’s a good reason carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer.” This deadly gas is invisible, odorless, and colorless and even a small amount can be fatal if inhaled for long enough. Install carbon monoxide alarms on each level of your home and outside bedrooms. If the alarm emits its high-pitched warning, get outside as quickly as possible or open windows and doors and take deep breaths of fresh air. CO poisoning can cause headaches, nausea, and tiredness and can be mistaken for flu.

Fire Escape Ladders

If your home has more than one floor, collapsible fire ladders should be a part of your fire-safety arsenal. Place a ladder where it’s easy to access in every upper-level room in case your evacuation route gets cut off by smoke or fire. Then, have the entire family rehearse the steps they would take to get the ladders out and attached to open windows.

No one wants to dwell on the possibility of their family being in danger or their home being consumed by flames, but this is one situation where being properly prepared could save lives and property. If you haven’t already done so, make an escape plan and go over it with your family. And check your homeowner’s insurance to make sure your policy is up to date with adequate coverage.

What to Do After a Fire

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Today 1-800-SERVPRO

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call the SERVPRO Customer Care Center, which is staffed 24 hours a day. Our specialist will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch the nearest SERVPRO Franchise Professional with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO Franchise Professional can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

The SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

They will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

What To Do When You Have A Leak

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Know how to handle a water leak in your home or business. Call us at 215.368.4110 to help!

WATER is a force of nature – it will always take the path of least resistance and it will keep coming until properly repaired.

Whether you are facing a sudden and large burst pipe flooding your basement, or a small drip, drip, drip that went unnoticed for a long time, water can cause untold damage to your property.

But expert help is on hand to not only stop the leak but help with the tidy up – and ensure it does not happen again.

When you find a leak, assess what type it is, as each has its own consequences of inaction.

Consider the non-damaging leak – the toilet that keeps running or the dripping tap. These are not going to cause damage to your property as the water is still draining away where it is supposed to. But water bills will go up – and even the smallest drip, running continuously 24 hours a day, will add dollars to your bill. And fixing it takes time and money.

Next is the minimal damage – you have escaped a big problem for now, but it will only get worse if not taken care of. If buried in a wall or the basement, it is easy to overlook them until a bigger repair presents itself.

And then there is significant damage demanding immediate attention – the burst pipe causing a flood which is destroying your property as you see it. There can be no delay in getting help.

When faced with a leak try to diagnose the problem – shut off all sources of water to work out where the water is coming from. Check the water meter – is it still showing running water? If so, there is a leak somewhere – and you are paying for it.

Turn off the water supply to the building, clean up the mess and get the leak fixed – and the bigger the problem the more important it is to act fast. Document any damage by taking pictures for the insurance company and work with your trusted SERVPRO to ensure the problem is fixed properly.

Tips for Keeping Employees Safe and Healthy this Winter

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Your employees are the most important part of your business. Make sure they are safe!

The winter season is full of dangers as well as illnesses. This winter, however, we are dealing with more worries than we have had to in the past. This is because winter is already known as flu season and is being impacted even more this year due to covid. It is more important than ever to keep employees safe and healthy this winter season, and we can help with these tips. 

In the winter there are many weather elements that can cause a lot of harm to a person. There are dangerous things such as snow, ice, and even frigid temperatures. Some ways to help ensure your employees are safe in these conditions are by keeping all the walkways and work areas clear of ice and snow by shoveling and salting the ground. If in a constant outdoor work area it could also help to have heavy-duty shoes with good traction on the bottom and protection for the winter weather. Another thing to ensure the safety of employees whether working outdoors or indoors is to have them wear bright-colored clothing (vest, etc.), especially when they are outside in winter weather because snow may make it difficult to see someone. 

Getting sick is a common occurrence in the winter months. People become ill in many different ways and it may be hard to avoid it in the workplace. The best way to keep workers healthy is to have employees feeling sick to stay home when ill. Especially with covid, it is important to have employees always wearing masks or to have employees work remotely and minimize the number of people in a workspace. 

It is important to keep your employees safe and healthy while working. We are here to help you keep employees safe in your workplace. Contact SERVPRO today and get the services you need to ensure the safety and health of your employees.

There Is No One Better To Contact After A Disastrous Storm

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO at 215.368.4110 today!

Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action. SERVPRO knows immediate reaction to the disaster is important to helping you get your life back to normal.

Utilizing our 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines, SERVPRO strives to:   

* Contact you within 1 hour from notice of loss to arrange for your service

* Be onsite to begin mitigation services within 4 hours of notification. 

* Provide verbal briefing of scope to you within 8 business hours of on-site arrival.

SERVPRO can also perform pack-out services, which is removing salvageable personal property from the affected area for off-site cleaning and storage. 

Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. We are available 24 hours a day, 7days a week.

When storms hit we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooring disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1800 Franchises across the country and Elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States. 

Call us today! 215.368.4110 

3 Reasons to Avoid Driving During a Flood

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

It can be frustrating to be stuck inside your house when it’s flooding but it is important that you avoid driving in this situation. A flooded street may seem easy to handle, but it can be a risk to your safety. The following are just a few reasons why it is best to stay off the roads during a severe storm.

1. It can damage your vehicle 

One reason to avoid flooded roads is that it can cause serious damage to your vehicle. Your car is not made to be driven in water, so it does not have the necessary equipment to protect it. If water enters your engine, it can cause it to stop functioning correctly and leave you with massive repair bills. Areas of your car may rust, and electronic components can be ruined.

2. There may be hidden road damage

Even if you think the road looks safe, there might be something lurking beneath the water’s surface. A flooded street may be hiding potholes, tree branches and debris from the storm. Any of these could damage your car and make it more difficult for you to drive safely.

3. You could lose control of your car

Whether you have been driving for a few years or a few decades, you cannot be prepared for everything. Even a long history of driving experience is not enough to keep you safe during a flood. Moving water in a flooded street can easily sweep your car away and create an incredibly dangerous situation. Just a few inches of water can cause you to hydroplane and result in a crash.
One of the best travel tips for driving during a flood is simply not to do it. Stay put if possible and, once the water has receded, you can find a more comfortable place to stay while an emergency restoration company performs any necessary repairs on your damaged home.

Top 3 Gas Range Cleaners

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Good fire safety practices are important to keep your family safe!

When you cook at home, food debris and grease accumulate on a stovetop. Glass-top electric ranges call for specialized cleaning solutions, but several standard household cleaners can be effective for a gas range. 

1. Vinegar
Distilled white vinegar is a common household cleaner. Diluted acetic acid can loosen food stuck onto the surface of a gas range, dissolve cooking grease and banish the smoke smell. For more scrubbing power, sprinkle the stove surface with baking soda.
Most cleaning experts recommend making a one-to-one mixture of 5% distilled vinegar or 6% cleaning vinegar and water to clean a stovetop. Remove the grates before spraying the surface and allow the vinegar to sit for a minute before wiping.

2. Dish Soap
Dish soap contains degreasing agents. If you do not have vinegar on hand or prefer to use soap, you can use this mixture to clean the entire stove or focus on areas with built-up grease.
If you plan to clean the entire range with dish soap, you may want to spray on a diluted mixture. You can also use full-strength soap on grease buildup by applying this cleaner directly to a scrub brush.

3. Degreaser
If it has been a while since your last range cleaning, you may get the best results from the degreaser. These powerful cleaning formulas are formulated to dissolve heavy buildup.

Follow the instructions for any brand of degreaser you buy. These treatments should generally be sprayed on and given several minutes to penetrate before being wiped off.
It is important to regularly wipe down the gas range at your residence. A dirty stove and combustibles that are kept too close to cooking areas can cause or intensify a kitchen fire. Regular cleaning and good fire safety practices can greatly reduce the risk of a house fire.

Reminder: Hygiene Reminders During The Pandemic

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Hygiene Hints During The Pandemic

Across the nation and the world as a whole, the COVID-19 Virus is still the top headline.  We are at a point where our efforts need to be amped up because the stubborn virus hasn’t just disappeared.

During this time, it is extremely important to continue to be extra vigilant with personal hygiene and safety precautions.  Here is some reminding, with helpful tips to follow:

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.  When soap and running water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Stay home when you have a fever or present a risk of spreading illness to others.
• Maintain a proper social distance between people (6 feet).
• Shaking hands and other forms of social greeting that creates contact with other people is discouraged during this period.

As always, SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is here to help.  We can help minimize the transmission of emerging viral pathogens, including COVID-19.  Our team has been proactively cleaning businesses and homes since the virus reached us last year.  For more information, please call us at 215.368.4110.

Why We Are, “Faster To Any Size Disaster”

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

Fun Fact: Did you know that there are over 1,500 SERVPRO Franchises in the United States?

Being locally owned and operated, as well as being a franchise of a nationally recognized brand, is the best of both worlds.  We live and work locally, and know Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown well.  But we also have corporate support when we need it. Especially when there are Hurricanes that hit our area like back in 2019.  The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Teams were here in full force to help us all out.

Training

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown is an IICRC Certified Firm. On top of that, all of our technicians are IICRC certified in Water Damage Restoration.

Advanced Technology

For a faster response, our high-tech equipment is preloaded and neatly organized on our vehicles.  Our high-tech equipment includes:

• moisture detection and measurement equipment
• water extraction and drying equipment
• techniques for deodorization and anti-microbial treatments

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 215.368.4110.

And remember, we are “Here to Help.”

What Can You Do To Protect Your Office Electronics From Water Damage?

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Offers the ERP--Emergency READY Profile Plan to Help Prevent and Mitigate Damage

Pennsylvania Business Owners Are Keen To Keep Water Damage Away From Their Electronics

Anybody who runs a business in PA knows how necessary electronic equipment is. Whether your company uses computers, a till, a customer database, phones, and tablets, or a combination of the above, electrical equipment is part of any business.

In the event of water damage, business owners are often worried about their electronics. After all, electrical equipment is costly to replace. If you need to substitute a critical device, that can delay you from getting your business back on track.

What can I do to keep electronics safe from water damage?

SERVPRO suggests taking a few simple steps to keep your electronics safe:

1.     Always elevate electronics – equipment left on the floor is more at risk of damage
2.     Keep electronics and sources of water separate – do not keep electronics near faucets or dishwashers
3.     Discourage employees from drinking at their desk as hot coffee and electronics are a recipe for disaster
4.     Install moisture meters to warn you of impending problems

We also recommend you back up all vital information to the cloud regularly. That way, even if something happens to your equipment, you will not lose critical data.

Why should I call SERVPRO in the event of a water loss?

Facing water damage in your office or warehouse is daunting. You are not trained or equipped to deal with such a disaster, which is why it is crucial to call us. Our technicians:

1.     Are prepared to assess the situation quickly and draw up the best plan
2.     Have a range of extractors and drying equipment on hand to get your business looking “Like it never even happened.”
3.     Can help you move your equipment out and then back again if needed
4.     Know when it is safe to touch electronics and when it is too hazardous, keeping you safe

For an even faster response, we recommend you sign up with our SERVPRO Emergency READY Plan (ERP). It is free to join and helps you draw up a handbook of useful information for staff in the event of water damage. Using ERP means your business is better prepared, and we are your preferred vendor to assist rapidly.

For help with water damage, call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown at 215.368.4110.

If You Have Water Damage In Your Home, Call The Team You Can Trust

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides 24 hour emergency service. Call us at 215.368.4110!

Water damage in Pennsylvania is a serious issue, especially when it is in your home. It can be caused by a number of things around the home. Plumbing problems, leaks, faulty hoses, and even damage from storms. SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is the answer to your water damage problem.

In addition to a quick response, homeowners should expect well trained and experienced professionals from SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown. Not only do we have knowledge to take care of water damage in your home, but we use the top quality equipment.

We are IICRC certified. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo. As certified technicians, we carry out all water removal and cleanup procedures following industry standards, which assures you of high quality and timely services.

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown water removal experts use state of the art technology and advanced cleanup and drying techniques. From water extraction equipment to air movers and dehumidifiers.

We are a trusted leader in the restoration industry. SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

24-Hour Emergency Service

Faster to Any-Sized Disaster

Highly Trained Restoration Technicians

A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

Locally Owned and Operated

Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is the company to call. To mitigate damage to your home, call our 24/7 emergency line at 215.368.4110.

Don't Delay When Water Damage Happens

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO at 215.368.4110!

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown provides water damage restoration service and we’re the kind of professional that no one wants to call.  But what’s important to remember is that when we are needed, it is important not to delay.  Moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem.  Regardless of how the moisture has entered the structure, the response should be the same:  get the home cleaned and dried quickly to ensure that there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, don’t try to handle it on your own.  Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill.  A water damage restoration company like SERVPRO not only has the training and tools to eliminate the moisture; they have the necessary equipment and technology their disposal.

This includes powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live in, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble.

So if you find yourself with water damage, don’t be the person with the beach towels and the box fans.  Get professional help.  Call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown  at 215.368.4110.  Working to make it…”Like it never even happened.”

Preventative Measures To Avoid Water Damage

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!!!

We all know that prevention is the best medicine, but floods can happen at any moment from any number of causes. By completing regularly scheduled home maintenance and keeping an eye out for common warning signs, you can minimize the chances of a flood. However, nothing can give you a 100% guarantee of never having a flood. In that case, preparation is the best way to minimize water damage.

First, it’s a good idea to know your flood risk. Are you in a potential flood zone? Is your yard sloped away from your foundation? Knowledge is power so the more you know about how your home might flood, the more steps you can take to prevent it or minimize damage from it.

Using waterproof building materials is a great way to reduce damage from flooding and there are waterproof sealants and paints that can be applied to existing structures. In particular, there are many protective coatings for block or poured concrete walls which are common in basements.

Keep your valuables and irreplaceable items such as photo albums, yearbooks, and important documents on high shelves. Do the same with chemicals and paints. If they leak into flood waters, they could cause additional damage. Any items put away for storage should be in air and water-tight plastic containers. Never leave boxes or items on the floor; instead, invest in raised shelving units.

It may also be a good idea to raise appliances and electronics off the ground. Get wires and power strips out from behind your tv stand and organize them in a way that keeps them out of the flood danger zone. Put washing machines and dryers on cinder blocks or sections of lumber to reduce the chances that rising water levels will affect them.

If a flood does strike, turn off electricity, gas, and water lines and place buckets under active leaks. If the water is pooling slowly, soak up as much of it as possible to reduce the potential damage. Calling SERVPRO at the first sign of a flood is the best way to reduce water damage. Our highly trained technicians will solve your immediate problems and ensure you don’t experience lasting effects or further damage.

Flooding can happen to anyone. Take steps now to protect your home and keepsakes from Water damage in the event of a possible flood.

Hardwood Floor Damage

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

If you find your hardwood floors cupping and lifting up, call SERVPRO at 215.368.4110!

When your home or business sustains water damage, trust the professionals at SERVPRO to help restore your property. Here we installed an Injectidry hardwood floor drying system on the water damaged hardwood flooring. This specialized system pulls air & moisture (under negative pressure) through the flutes of the flooring to dry multiple layers. By utilizing this system we are typically able to save the hardwood flooring and reduce the costs and disruption to our client. With the specialized equipment and training that SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell & Abington Jenkintown has, we are able to restore vs. replace in many circumstances. After 3 days of drying the flooring returned to normal moisture levels, eliminating the need to remove and replace all the flooring.

If you have a water loss and need us to dry out your hardwood flooring call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown at 215.368.4110.

What's an ERP?

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110 to start your ERP today!

Are you familiar with the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP)? This tool can make one very important part of your facility management responsibilities easier.

Every facility manager knows they should have a detailed disaster plan, but coming up with one from scratch can be a time-consuming task. It’s tempting to put this job to the side and deal with the many metaphorical fires you have to deal with every day than prepare for a real, but hypothetical fire in the future.

That’s what’s great about the ERP. One of SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown representatives can come to you and walk you through creating a reference document that details the important building and contact information for your property. 

The ERP can be used as a standalone document or as a supplement to any existing preparedness plan. Thinking through what to do and who to call in advance is the key to timely mitigation, which minimizes the effects of any weather-related disaster, water, or fire damage to your business.

No matter where you live, it is important to be informed and prepared for any disaster that may occur. Though Mother Nature's is often unpredictable, the ERP is one thing we can do to help you take control before disaster strikes.

Contact SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown  to establish an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your property. SERVPRO's ERP serves as a quick reference document, In any emergency, make sure you have experienced professionals on the line. No matter how big or small, SERVPRO will be ready to help make your property damage "Like it never even happened."

3 Reasons a Property Owner Can Be Sued Over Mold Damage

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

A lawsuit can also stem from knowledge of existing damage

Every property owner is aware that too many insurance claims, like mold insurance claims, can lead to higher premiums, but many do not consider the risks of potential lawsuits. As an owner and a landlord, you have a responsibility to maintain a habitable and functional environment for tenants. If you fail in this responsibility, you may find yourself amid litigation. There are three main reasons tenants may sue a landlord.

1. Avoidance of notification
Before most tenants invest in attorneys to file a mold claim, they will probably try settling matters with their landlord outside of court. Ensure that you take notifications of mold damage seriously and that you respond quickly to tenant complaints. Avoiding a complaint of mold damage is grounds for a lawsuit and may result in fines beyond the restitution to tenants.

2. Knowledge of existing damage
A lawsuit can also stem from knowledge of existing damage. For example, if you know of a plumbing issue and fail to repair it, resulting in mold growth, tenants can file mold insurance claims seeking restitution for any subsequent damages.

3. Use of inadequate materials
Keep in mind that the repair of the property should restore the facility to predisaster conditions. The use of less expensive or inadequate materials can result in litigation. For proper cleanup, contact a mold remediation company in Bucks County Area, with a license and appropriate certifications. Professional remediation specialists understand not only the removal process but the legal and insurance liabilities, ensuring you receive the most protection against possible lawsuits.
While every property owner is right to acknowledge the potential damage of mold insurance claims and lawsuits, the best prevention is through action. Do not hesitate to perform inspections and correct issues when tenants notify you. Also, perform regular checks of the property so that you may catch issues before clients. When a problem is located, hire the appropriate professionals to manage and remediate the issue.

A Timeline of SERVPRO's Emergency Response

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

Below is a timeline of what kind of response time you can expect when you call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown. We know time is of the essence when a disaster strikes your commercial business.

One Hour: Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO Professional will contact you to arrange for service.

Four Hours: A SERVPRO Professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.

Pretesting:  A SERVPRO Professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

Eight Hours:  Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally the adjuster or property manager.

Cleaning & Restoration: A SERVPRO Professional will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure the property is taken care of right the first time.

Final Walk-Through: After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted to help ensure satisfaction.

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No matter the disaster, you can rest assured, we are prepared! That is why we pride ourselves on being “Faster to any size disaster.”

Call us today for more information! 215.368.4110

Clean Out Those Gutters!

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Remember to regularly clean out and inspect your gutters to avoid water damage to the structure and roof of your house.

Think back to the last time it stormed…was water pouring off the edges of your house in bucket loads? If so, it is likely your gutters are clogged with debris.

Summer rains can bring high damaging winds that can dislodge branches from trees which may look to find a new home...on top of yours! Helicopters fall from maple trees, leaves, and tiny critters may all find a new home in your gutters.

It is important for you to regularly clean out and inspect your gutters to avoid water damage to the structure and roof of your house. It is simple enough - all you will need is a ladder, gloves, protective goggles, water hose and a scoop or small shovel.

Cleaning your gutters can be performed in 3 easy steps:

1. Climb the ladder and start scooping! Start from the end closest to the drain outlet and remove any debris with your scoop, working away from the drain outlet. For faster cleanup in the end, toss the debris into a bucket on the ground.
2. With your water hose in tow, spray a steady stream of water through the gutters towards the drain outlet. To avoid getting sprayed with hose water and debris, a hose with a pressure gauge for high and low power might be better, but any hose will work fine.
3. Check your drainpipes for any blockages. Hopefully, any potential blocks are minimized by scooping out the debris before it makes it into the pipes. However, there are instances where storms force material into the pipes. If you see a trickle instead of a flow coming from your pipes, use the hose at the top of the gutter and spray directly into the outlet.

If you need help with storm or water damage, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown at 215.368.4110.

Deodorization Techniques

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

The picture above is one of our ozone machines. This machine can help make that odor "Like it never even happened."

People often use masking agents such as air fresheners and candles in an attempt to eliminate a smell. While these methods may do a decent job of masking the odor they are temporary solutions. The offensive odors noses pick up is a result of volatile molecules. These molecules are in compounds or chemicals that evaporate very quickly. As a result, they stream through the air and end up in the nose.

There’s a science to removing smells. Humans have a highly sensitive olfactory and the human nose contains millions of sensory neurons. Malodors send subliminal messages about a space that silently screams, this place is unclean!

Some of the top offensive odors include:

• Cooking odors
• Mold and/or mildew odors
• Pet urine or feces
• Tobacco smoke
• Fire and smoke damage odors

Your local SERVPRO® offers cleaning options that do more than just make your home temporarily smell good. Our professional and certified technicians use state of the art HEPA filters, air scrubbers, and deodorization techniques that will ensure a long lasting deep clean long after the crew leaves the premises. High volume trafficked areas are notorious for lingering smells. Commercial areas such as:

• Restaurants
• Apartment communities
• Retirement homes
• Community centers

Can be cleaned by our certified technicians to restore your property with a pleasant aroma. We also offer deodorization treatments to residential customers and this can be combined with a carpet and or duct cleaning for a new home smell.

Top 3 Deodorization Treatment Techniques

Absorbents. This type of treatment is good for confined spaces, air ducts, and filters.

Neutralization. An equalizing chemical neutralizes stinky odors

Biocides. Another type of chemical process but this one kills or greatly reduces growth of microorganisms.

Ozone machines are another way to clean the air. They work by attacking ozone molecules and pollutants at their source to oxidize the air.

SERVPRO® of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown has the training, experience, and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.” And to make your house feel like a home again.

As a Renter, Does My Insurance Cover Fire Loss?

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in a local Lansdale Home

Insurance can be confusing. As a renter of your residence, it can be even more complicated to understand exactly what renters insurance does or doesn’t cover. After all, you don’t own the building, but you certainly have an investment in your own belongings. If your home sustains a fire disaster what does this insurance coverage typically include?

1. Personal Property

This coverage includes fire damage caused by the negligence of you or someone else (criminal acts are excluded). While your policy doesn’t cover the structure in which you live or any property owned by your landlord (walls, light fixtures, flooring, appliances — your landlord’s policy covers these), it does include the loss of your personal property (except for your vehicle). Fortunately, it usually covers the replacement cost instead of the actual cash value. So, you’ll receive payment on what it costs to replace the item versus the depreciated value. Subsequent damage such as smoke and/or soot is also covered.

2. Loss of Use

Oftentimes a fire causes such extensive loss that the home is unlivable. Your insurance will reimburse you for living expenses (e.g., hotel stays) during the fire restoration process.

3. Liability

A fire caused by your negligence could cause injury to someone else (i. e., a neighbor or visitor) or cause their property to sustain damage. Your renters insurance will step in to cover these losses.

4. Medical Expenses

If someone sustains a small bodily injury as a result of your fire, “medical payments to others” will pay for their medical bills. This is no-fault coverage, which means that it doesn't require determination of fault, unlike liability coverage, allowing for faster reimbursement.
If you're renting your residence in the Philadelphia area, renters insurance isn't required but could be worth the extra expense for the added assurance. Fire damage cleanup experts will return your home to its preloss condition in the event of a fire.

The 4 P’s of Why SERVPRO!

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110! We are "always here to help!"

You may have seen the lime green SERVPRO vehicles driving around town or perhaps seen our commercials – the powerful brand image of lime green against orange in the logo is unforgettable.  Most people know that SERVPRO is synonymous with fire, water, mold, biohazard clean up and restoration.  The question still looms, why should you trust SERVPRO above all others with your home when a catastrophe strikes?    The answer to that question is the 4 P’s, or Pillars of SERVPRO: Personnel, Process, Products, and Price.

• Personnel: Great organizations are made up of great people. The greatness of SERVPRO is the people behind the brand.  Caring, committed, professionals that take pride in their work are the foundation of the SERVPRO franchise system.  SERVPRO professionals understand the importance of their work as they assist you in a difficult and stressful time in your life.
• Process: SERVPRO, as a franchise system, has built numerous processes to assure excellence in all areas of operations.  With detailed training and structure and the newest technology, SERVPRO has the right processes to work on the smallest to largest jobs and provide exemplary service. 
• Products: SERVPRO has an in-house product development team that provides superior products that are designed to truly wow and awe.  These products in the hands of a well-trained SERVPRO professional can take water or fire damaged items and in many cases makes them like they were never even damaged. 
• Price: SERVPRO can assure fair pricing because the pricing used in insurance claims is set by the insurance company.  Your insurance company has set the price that SERVPRO will use as they estimate your claim.  This assures you that you will not be overbilled. 

3 Helpful Tips for Roof Repair

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO at 215.368.4110 for emergency fire and board up services!

If your business has suffered roof damage as a result of a fire, you may find yourself looking for tips on how to go about a fire cleanup. Here are three things you may want to know.

1. Protect the Damaged Area

It is important to protect any damaged areas to your company property until repairs can be made. You may want to consider boarding over the damage or taking advantage of tarp services offered by your local fire restoration company. Doing so can help prevent inclement weather from making any damage worse, as well as prevent wild animals from getting into the property.

1. Contact a Professional

It's often recommended that a fire cleanup be conducted by a professional restoration service. This is largely due to the fact that a fire can cause a number of types of damage, and that these professionals have the tools and knowledge to look for and repair any related damages along with the original problem. A restoration service may also be able to communicate with your insurance company in order to provide them with information they may need to process your claim.

1. Understand Possible Related Damage

In many cases the initial damage caused by fire can lead to additional problems, and it's important to understand this when dealing with a fire restoration. After a fire you may be looking at water damage and flooding, as well as roof repair, smoke damage, and potential mold problems. Understanding that these issues can be related to a fire can help you take the appropriate safety and clean up steps.

When conducting a fire cleanup at your place of business it's important to remember these three things. Protect any damage areas against further damage until repairs can be made. Contact a local fire restoration company in order to have repairs completed as quickly as possible. Understand any damages related to fire such as water damage or flooding,  so that proper clean-up procedures can be taken.

Your dryer can cause a home fire.

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

We can handle a small or large fire! Call us at 215.368.4110! We'd love to help!

As a homeowner in the Philadelphia/Bucks County Area, you're probably very diligent about fire safety. You may have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors on every floor, but have you checked your dryer vent lately? Many homes are damaged each year as the result of a lint fire. If the vent isn't cleaned out regularly, a dryer fire can result. 

1. Clothes Are Taking Too Long To Dry

If your vent is blocked, your clothes can take up to two or three times as long to dry. You may find that the clothes you put in for a regular drying time are still a little damp when the cycle is over. This is happening because the blocked vent isn't allowing the moisture to be released to the outside.

2. Hot Dryer and Clothes

A blocked vent can also cause excess heat. If your laundry feels unusually hot when you take it out, and the outside of the dryer feels very hot when you touch it, this could be the problem.

3. Burning Smell

If you smell something burning inside the dryer, that's a sure sign of trouble. The drum casing, exhaust tube, and trap can get clogged, which makes it easy for a lint fire to start. If you're smelling smoke, turn off the dryer immediately and call a professional right away to inspect it.

4. No Regular Inspections

Your dryer vent should be inspected at least once a year by a vent cleaning specialist. A do-it-yourself job is certainly an option, but hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done thoroughly. These technicians are well acquainted with all the various brands of dryers and have the proper equipment to efficiently clean out the vent.

A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage. But you can easily prevent a fire from happening by looking out for the signs outlined above.

Moisture in your basement could support mold growth

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown at 215.368.4110!

Freezing and thawing of masonry at the foundation of your home can put considerable strain and stress on this construction. Over many winters, the strain and flex of these materials can degrade mortar joints and allow external water to penetrate into the lower levels of your home. While you likely still have a considerable amount of time before you are at risk of situations like flooding, the added moisture and dampness could provide another kind of disaster to organic materials like wood and drywall in your basement: mold growth.

Mold damage in your home is something that any homeowner should address as soon as they can. With the possibility of mold causing health effects to you or your family who gets exposed, time is of the essence to get the job done correctly. Our SERVPRO remediation technicians can help you to overcome the mold growth and colonies that are present in this area of your house and to aid in preventing the moisture from persisting as a problem.

The initial inspection can often reveal the source of the moisture, namely, where water can penetrate the blockwork and enter the house. Our SERVPRO professionals can often apply hydraulic cement over these areas to seal them up and prevent further dampness at these places.

One of the seemingly persistent effects of mold colonization in any area of your house is the musty odor that comes along with it. While this might be helpful in identifying the initial problem, deodorization can eliminate this persistent scent. Often the equipment needed for this process is a thermal fogging machine, which releases a dense chemical that neutralizes musty odor molecules on contact and leaves no scent behind.

While deodorization might only be a small piece of the remediation process, it is one of the critical services to help homeowners move on from mold growth in their homes. When you find mold in your residence, give the SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown remediation technicians a call at 215.368.4110.

What to know about mold in your HVAC unit

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110! We'd love to help you keep your employee's or family safe from mold damage!

As soon as black mold is noticed in a business, it’s important to begin the remediation process quickly. However, being unaware that mold can grow in the air ducts in a building can allow the mold to spread and cause extensive damage to your business.

How Does Mold Grow in Ducts?

When thinking of common places mold grows, ducts are commonly not considered. The following factors make mold likely to grow in ducts:

• Poor air circulation
• Organic material that mold needs to grow, such as dust and dirt, collects in ducts
• Problems such as water leaks can easily go unnoticed in ducts, making it easier for mold to grow and spread in these areas

What Are the Signs?

Though there are a variety of molds that can grow in ducts, black mold is particularly common. Signs that your building may have this type of mold growth in ducts can include:

• An unpleasant, musty odor
• Discoloration on walls or ceilings that are located near the ducts
• Visible signs of mold elsewhere in a property, which can indicate that there may be a widespread mold issue in areas that are less visible

How Is Mold Removed From Ducts?

Removing mold from ducts is often done by mold remediation experts who know how to ensure the spores don’t spread. In order to prevent the spores from spreading throughout the property, professionals will make sure the ducts and the areas surrounding the ducts are contained. Items that are covered in mold will be removed from the building to be either replaced or restored. The use of high-powered air filters will also help to remove the harmful spores.

Mold can grow in a variety of places in your business, and having a thorough understanding of mold can be helpful. Knowing how black mold grows in air ducts, the signs of growth and how it is removed can help you take steps toward having clean ducts.

Protecting Your Home from Frozen and Bursting Pipes

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Basement flooding? Burst pipe? Call us at 215.368.4110. We are always here to help!

Our area has experienced some record cold temperatures this month. Though you may be taking extra steps to keep yourself warm, SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown wants to remind you to keep your home safe as well.

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety reports that pipes generally don't burst from simply freezing - it is actually the buildup of pressure between the frozen water blockage and the closed faucet that causes the pipe to burst.

Here at SERVPRO, we care about our customers and want to pass on the following tips to help protect their homes:

1) Let a faucet slowly drip during extreme cold weather (under 20 degrees F) to provide pressure relief on the pipe.  If hot and cold water lines serve a fixture, make sure that both lines are contributing to the drip.

2) If you are planning to travel out of town, take the extra precaution of draining your water system.  To do this, shut off the main water valve and then turn on all fixtures until water stops flowing.  If there is no water in the lines, they can't freeze or burst.

In the event that the worst happens and you come home to a burst pipe and water in your home, SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 215.368.4110

Stay warm out there and remember that SERVPRO is here to help with all of your routine and emergency restoration and cleaning needs.

About SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. 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.

Meet Our Crew:

https://www.SERVPROlansdale.com/employee-photos

Common Causes of House Fires

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110. We are happy help!

Fire damage may result in ways you least expect. Take precautionary measures now to protect your home from the following fire instigators.

• Cooking equipment: Cooking equipment is the number one cause of house fires. Pots and pans can quickly overheat when left unattended or mishandled. Be sure to always turn your handles towards the middle of the stove to avoid children from accidentally grabbing it. When leaving the house, always remember to turn off stove and oven.
• Smoking in Bedrooms: Avoid smoking in bedrooms. A cigarette butt can stay lit for hours and cause a flame after coming into contact with clothes or furniture. Open flames such as candles can also pose a danger for many residents.
• Old electrical equipment: Older lampshades and light fittings may build up heat, and weak bases could pose a tipping hazard. Electrical equipment such as these should be checked for faulty cords, and the power point must not be overloaded with double adapter plugs.
• Flammable liquids: Liquids such as petrol, kerosene, or methylated spirits should be kept away from heat sources and stored properly according to their label.

When accidents happen, SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown is here to help and restore your home quickly and professionally. Give us a call at 215.368.4110.

We Offer Free ERPs!

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Profiles help prepare your business for a disaster. Give us a call at 215.368.4110 so we can help!

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

• A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. 
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. 
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. 
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. 
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. 
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

This Is A FREE Service To Your Company!

Fire Pit Tips

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a fire issue, commercial or residential call us at 215.368.4110. Faster to any size disaster.

Home Fire Pit Tips

Fall is coming and for many families its a tradition to enjoy the nights outside around a homemade fire pit! Many of us are looking forward to spending time gathering around them to enjoy time with family and friends. Before you start dreaming of moonlit nights and toasted marshmallows, take a moment to check out some of these tips from Allstate to remember.

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips:

• Whether you prefer a built-in or portable fire pit, choose one that is not too large for the area. The pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires, 25 feet away from apartment or multi residence buildings.
• Make sure that the seating area is large enough and properly placed for comfort and ventilation.
• Check wind direction before lighting a fire.
• Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.
• To start the fire, use a lighter to ignite crumpled pieces of paper covered with small sticks. Then, add larger sticks and a log or two to keep it burning. 
• Burn only dry material. Damp material will create excess smoke. 
• Use a commercial fire pit screen on top to help prevent large amber from leaving the controlled area. 
• Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fitting clothing.
• Never leave the fire unattended, and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or bucket of water nearby.
• As the fire dies down, use a shovel and spread out the ashes to allow them to cool down. Then slowly pour water over those ashes and watch them closely to be sure that no burning embers remain or reignite. Put the cooled ashes in a specially designated ash storage metal can. 

Fire Emergency Plans and Why We Need One

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Home Fire and Safety Plan

We are all busy with kids, school, work, after school activities, but we all need to take some time out of our busy schedule, and make a family fire plan. I know as a parent it's hard to juggle family life, but safety for my family is always on my mind. Here is what you can do.

• Make a map of your home, and make a fire exit plan. Post you fire plan in the kitchen area a daily reminder.
• Teach safety techniques like step by step how to instructions to stay low to the ground, and cover your face with your shirt or a pillow case to protect from the smoke
• Conduct drills like listening for the smoke detector, and practicing the fire exit plan for evacuation.
• Talk about fire safety with your children. Play games to teach them stop drop and roll, and to be ready for if a fire if it happened in your home.

If a fire happens in your home, SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown can help you fix your home. We are here for you and your home 24/7.

What Can Cause Water Damage in Your Home?

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage can happen all over your home, and even underneath it.

One of the most common causes of water damage is a leaky basement. To make repairs, you have to find the leak. We can help address this problem

Leaky Plumbing

Another cause of water damage is a leaky plumbing system. Unless the system is plagued by multiple leaks, you can do the repair yourself. Depending on the extensiveness of the damage, you can either patch up the leaky pipe or change one or several damaged pipes if the problem is internal. SERVPRO can always help you with water damage repair that is out of your hands.

Fixing the Plant Root System

Did you know that plant and shrub overgrowth could cause water damage to the home too? When the root system of the plant and shrub is too close to a structure, water could penetrate its foundation. You can resolve minor water damage caused by plant overgrowth by trimming the shrubs and removing water that pools near the foundation of your home.

Damaged Drywall

For ceilings, the usual culprit is a leaky roof or a leaky toilet. For leaky toilets, we highly recommend getting a Plumber to stop the leak. Then let the Professionals at SERVPRO repair any damages that may have occurred.  We can repair drywall, dry any moisture and help protect against mold. 

Call SERVPRO today if your home or business is experiencing Water Damage our number is 215.368.4110.

We Can Clean Your Home or Business

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown are trained professionals for cleaning for the Coronavirus

The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic has reminded all of us how important it is to properly clean the surfaces and objects we handle.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cleaning and disinfecting are separate processes. Cleaning removes dirt, oils and most surface germs. Disinfection kills (or deactivates) remaining germs.

SERVPRO® of Benton County and Linn County is qualified to clean and properly apply disinfectants according to the CDC’s protocols.

We have numerous years of experience in cleaning and disinfecting contaminants, including infectious bio hazards. We have specific training and the appropriate equipment to go beyond standard cleaning services.  More recently, our professionals received additional training certifications regarding COVID-19 decontamination.

Many SERVPRO cleaning products include products the CDC recommends for other coronaviruses (such as SARS).  The EPA has just added three more of our branded disinfectants to their approved product list!  Although there has not yet been product testing against COVID-19, we can assure our community in and around Boulder that we follow all of the CDC-recommended guidelines.

We clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as:

• Counters and tabletops
• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Toilets & other bathroom fixtures (faucets, handrails, tubs & showers)
• Tablets, keyboards & other office (home or business) equipment

We also clean soft surfaces such as:

• Carpets & rugs
• Upholstered furniture
• Exercise mats

The CDC recommends cleaning and disinfecting the following areas:

• Kitchen & dining areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools, classrooms, conference rooms
• Retail spaces, including
  • Sales counters
  • Racks, shelves
  • Hand-rails & elevator cars
  • Flooring, regardless of material
  • Water fountains
  • Carpets, rugs
  • Fitness equipment
  • Playground equipment

Call SERVPRO for a Proactive Cleaning Today!

We care and are Ready To Respond!  SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown 215.368.4110

6 Steps to Your Water Damage

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Your problem our solution. Call SERVPRO, faster to any size disaster!

When your property incurs water damage, acting quickly is important

When you discover water damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown's, six-step restoration process to truly restore your property to its pre-damage condition.

6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

1. Initial Emergency Contact
   • You can call us 24 hours a day to begin the water restoration process because taking immediate action is crucial after water damage occurs. When you call us, we will ask you questions to get an overview of the damage and to help us determine what resources to dispatch to you.
2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
   • When we arrive on the scene in response to water damage, we will do a detailed property inspection to assess the scope of the damage and to develop a thorough plan of action. We will identify the water source, the category of water, and check for safety concerns.
3. Moisture Extraction
   • The water extraction process will remove the majority of moisture via our extraction and pump units. We will start this process as quickly as possible to lessen the likelihood of more damage occurring and to reduce drying time. We can also help you move out of your belongings in the event that they might be damaged as well.
4. Dehumidifying and Drying
   • After the excess water has been removed, we can begin fully drying all porous materials that have absorbed water. Our industrial-grade equipment moves air quickly and helps moisture to evaporate as fast as possible, which will dry out floors, walls, and carpets as well as discourage mold growth.
5. Cleaning and Repair
   • After sustaining water damage, impacted surfaces will typically require professional cleaning. In addition to structural cleaning, we will clean your belongings that are able to be restored. We will also do odor removal to prevent the musty odor that water-damaged objects often develop.
6. Restoration
   • The final step is ensuring that your property is restored to its pre-water condition. This will involve things like drywall and flooring repairs or even reconstruction. By working with us, you are working with a company that can handle all elements of the restoration, including the difficult reconstruction parts that truly restores things back to their pre-damaged state. We also handle restoration and construction.

Are you ready for a flood?

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO to help in any storm situation!

Are You Ready for a Flood?

Hurricane season is in full force right now. This season we have already had two hurricanes hit our coastline at the same time. Texas and Louisiana both were ravaged head-on but both these storms continued into the states bringing a lot of rain. Many times when moments like this occur, our cities and towns are able to handle the onslaught of rain due to the fact it may not be typical to get so much in such a little time. Being only at the beginning of the hurricane season, we thought it is important to make sure to share some flood preparedness tips with you. Below are some tips which were provided by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) to help you prepare your home or business for a flood.

Before the Flood:

• Have a qualified professional elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel, as they are susceptible to flooding.
• Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home or business.
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage.

During the Flood:

• Turn off all utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
• Disconnect electrical appliances.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water.  Even six inches or moving water can make you fall.

After the Flood:

• Listen for news reports to learn if the community's water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid floodwaters.  Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.  Water may also be electrically charged.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

As always, our team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown is part of the larger, national brand of SERVPRO Industries. Know that you can trust us to put your home or business back together, “Like it never even happened.”

What is in your water?

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Lansdale at 215.368.4110!

Did you know that the water either coming into your home or from your home due to busted pipes or leaks has what we call a “category”? When it comes to handling mitigation in your home it is better to allow the professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown to deal with the emergency because you have to treat the water correctly to be safe. You never know what is either in your water or what the water has passed through to create contamination.

The information below explains the main types of water damage and could help you identify the problem quickly if it ever happens to you.

Category One: Clear Water

This water is the cleanest, most non-toxic form of water damage. It is potable water, perhaps directly from the tap. It is unlikely to cause you any harm, even if you are exposed for some time. Nevertheless, even clean flooding can lead to electrical and structural faults, so it is safer for you to call in the experts for repairs. Clean water comes from things like a broken water supply line, tub or sinks overflow with no contaminants, appliance malfunctions involving water-supply lines to name a few. However, once clean water leaves the exit point, it might not remain clean after contacting other surfaces or materials. Although it is considered the "safest" of the categories, it can degrade to category 2 or 3 if left untreated.

Category Two: Gray Water 

Gray water damage is a little bit more serious and requires a speedier removal process. This is because it may contain potentially unsafe levels of chemicals, microorganisms, or dirt. Examples of Cat 2 water include, but are not limited to: overflow from dishwashers or washing machines; overflows from toilet bowls with urine; seepage due to hydrostatic pressure and broken aquariums.
If left untreated, it can quickly degrade into category 3.

Category Three: Black Water

Cat 3 water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Cat 3 water can include, but are not limited to: sewage; toilet backflows from beyond the trap; flooding from seawater, rivers or streams, ground surface water, or other contaminated water entering the indoor environment.

The team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is skilled in the safe handling of the different categories through training and protective clothing to eliminate the risk of sickness.

On Call 24/7 to Help You!

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

We are faster to any size disaster! Call us today at 215-368.4110!

If you follow us on social media, you may notice that we always make it known that we are available to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. How is this possible?

Here at SERVPRO® of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown, we know that disasters rarely give notice that they’re about to happen. If you and your family have been gone on vacation and you return to a swimming pool instead of a home, we are there for you. Or say someone drives into the side of your house and you need a board up until repairs can be made...we’ve got your back. Even as a small, family owned business, we arrive faster to any size disaster and will coordinate with you and your insurance to meet your needs. 

We are always available to take your call because we like to make it “Like it never even happened,” so that you can focus on what really matters. 

Call us anytime, 24/7. We are here to help

Hoarding Clean Up and Restoration

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

We are experienced in dealing with hoard clean ups. You can trust us to help! Call us today at 215.368.4110!

Individuals with hoarding disorder have received more awareness through shows like Hoarders and public access to videos on YouTube that give a glimpse into their lives. According to the American Psychiatric Association, people with hoarding disorder excessively save things that others would view as trash or worthless. They struggle with getting rid of possessions which allows for clutter to develop, disrupting their ability to use their home or work space. Hoarding disorder can cause problems in other important areas of functioning such as personal relationships and work.

Because of the special circumstances involved in hoard cleanup, it is essential for us to maintain the well-being of our clients and of our technicians onsite. Communication is key in this process with the homeowner, insurance and all involved parties to ensure that cleanup is performed correctly, safely and with high regard and respect for the owner’s belongings.

If you or someone you know are seeking help with hoarding cleanup and restoration, give SERVPRO® of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown a call.

For more information about hoarding disorder see the American Psychiatric Association website.

Proactive Cleaning for Your Business!

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned!

During this unprecedented time, SERVPRO of Greater Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown is here to help with your cleaning and disinfecting needs.  The coronavirus pandemic has affected the ways we operate and conduct our businesses.  Having professionally trained specialists adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards should put SERVPRO of Greater Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown at the top of you list if you are in need of cleaning and sanitizing services.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has set protocols for cleaning and disinfecting your home or business that SERVPRO will follow.  We will go beyond the scope of regular janitorial staff, and we have years of experience dealing with bioremediation. 

The CDC recommends cleaning of surfaces that are touched often such as door knobs, tabletops, light switches, counters, bathroom fixtures, handrails, toilets, tablets, phones, and keyboards. Other areas discussed in the CDC’s commercial spaces guide include:  bathrooms, kitchens, offices, schools, retail spaces, shelving, fitness equipment, carpets and rugs, and playground equipment.

SERVPRO of Greater Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown also has the recommended EPA approved cleaning products with claims against similar pathogens to Covid-19.  We will follow all guidelines provided by local authorities and the CDC.

For questions for proactive cleaning, or any other type of cleaning or sanitizing call your trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Greater Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown any time at (254) 224-5999

When Should I Replace My Roof?

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

You may be asking yourself when you should replace your roof. Maybe you live or work in an older building, and you know it will become necessary at some point. Perhaps you have seen some water stains in your attic or you have just gone through a season of really heavy weather and some shingles have disappeared. Today we are going to share some things to think about as you decide when you should replace your roof. 

Gutters/Rain Spouts. Rain spouts can pull away from the building if they are overloaded or clogged with water and debris, and this can do damage to the corners of the roof and exterior walls. This kind of damage is easily seen from the ground, so take a walk around your building to see if there is any sign of this kind of damage. If the damage has been evident for a while and you haven’t done repairs, your roofing may have experienced enough damage that it needs to be replaced. 

Shingles. If you see curled or buckled shingles, or if shingles are missing, that’s something that will need to be repaired right away if you are to avoid leaks and future water damages. Water stains in the attic are a telltale sign that you might need a new roof; higher-than-average energy bills are another sign that you may need a SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown a call today.

Maintenance. Conducting regular inspections of all parts of your roofing will aid you when it comes to the condition of your roof. It can be easy to forget about it, but a damaged roof can quickly become a huge issue, allowing water to intrude into every part of your home or business and cause water damage. 

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown  is here to help you with your roofing concerns. We handle water damage, fire damage, and mold remediation, so contact us right away if you have experienced any of these issues. Water damage can be from a roof that needs to be replaced, or it can cause you to need to replace it; we can help you in every roofing situation!

How To Clean Up After Smoke Damage

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

We would love to be the ones your trust after a fire in your home or business! Call us at 215.368.4110!

After a fire, contacting a cleaning professional may be the best decision you can make, since fire will affect everything in your home or business, through the flames, heat, soot, and smoke. Your structure can even be adversely affected. You’ll need the assistance of professionals who have the expertise and equipment that is needed to get your work or personal space back to normal as soon as possible. 

Unsafe Conditions. Inhaling smoke can have an immediate negative effect on you, even if it’s only for a short time, so avoiding a smoky situation is really important. With that in mind, you won’t want to enter your home or business until all the smoke is cleared from your premises. Hiring a professional fire and smoke damage restoration contractor will ensure that your property is free from the after-effects of a fire quickly and thoroughly. 

Cleaning Methods. SERVPRO specializes in restoring the contents of a home or business that has suffered from fire damage or water damage. The team will assess all your belongings carefully to determine which items can be restored to their “pre-fire” condition and will use several cleaning methods to restore your property to its original condition. These can include:

• Foam. This is used for upholstery since upholstery can shrink or the colors may bleed if water is used. 
• Dry. This method is used to get rid of light residue.
• Wet. This is a very effective cleaning method, used to remove moderate to heavy residues.
• Immersion. In this method, items are dipped into a bath of cleaning products for a thorough cleaning that removes heavy residues and overwhelming odors.  

Electronics. Electronics that have been damaged by fire and the accompanying smoke often present a serious hazard, so never turn your electronics on after they have been damaged by fire, just to be safe. Smoke residue contains acids that corrode metal and that can cause electronic failure in a device. Computers, televisions, and CD/DVD players should be assessed and cleaned by a professional before they are used again. 

If the smoke and fire damage to your home or business is such that it will need extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO can organize your move-out process if that is necessary. Removing your items from the area will help any remodeling process go a lot faster, as well as l protect your items from any further potential damage. Once that is complete we can then coordinate and organize your move back into your premises so you can get back to normal.

If your home or business has suffered damage from fire, water, or mold, here at 

After a fire, contacting a cleaning professional may be the best decision you can make, since fire will affect everything in your home or business, through the flames, heat, soot, and smoke. Your structure can even be adversely affected. You’ll need the assistance of professionals who have the expertise and equipment that is needed to get your work or personal space back to normal as soon as possible. 

Unsafe Conditions. Inhaling smoke can have an immediate negative effect on you, even if it’s only for a short time, so avoiding a smoky situation is really important. With that in mind, you won’t want to enter your home or business until all the smoke is cleared from your premises. Hiring a professional fire and smoke damage restoration contractor will ensure that your property is free from the after-effects of a fire quickly and thoroughly. 

Cleaning Methods. SERVPRO specializes in restoring the contents of a home or business that has suffered from fire damage or water damage. The team will assess all your belongings carefully to determine which items can be restored to their “pre-fire” condition and will use several cleaning methods to restore your property to its original condition. These can include:

• Foam. This is used for upholstery since upholstery can shrink or the colors may bleed if water is used. 
• Dry. This method is used to get rid of light residue.
• Wet. This is a very effective cleaning method, used to remove moderate to heavy residues.
• Immersion. In this method, items are dipped into a bath of cleaning products for a thorough cleaning that removes heavy residues and overwhelming odors.  

Electronics. Electronics that have been damaged by fire and the accompanying smoke often present a serious hazard, so never turn your electronics on after they have been damaged by fire, just to be safe. Smoke residue contains acids that corrode metal and that can cause electronic failure in a device. Computers, televisions, and CD/DVD players should be assessed and cleaned by a professional before they are used again. 

If the smoke and fire damage to your home or business is such that it will need extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO can organize your move-out process if that is necessary. Removing your items from the area will help any remodeling process go a lot faster, as well as l protect your items from any further potential damage. Once that is complete we can then coordinate and organize your move back into your premises so you can get back to normal.

If your home or business has suffered damage from fire, water, or mold, here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown we handle fire and water damage projects of all sizes, and we are mold prevention and remediation experts too.

Managing Flood Damage in Your Business

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

We know the importance of getting your business back up and running quickly. Give us a call at 215.368,4110!

During storm season here in the Philadelphia area your business may experience some damage from flooding. Here are some tips you can follow to manage flood damage in your business:

Safety First!

• Do not enter the building until a professional has cleared it if you believe that it has been structurally damaged or if there is flood risk remains.
• Do not go anywhere near downed power lines or any standing water or metal objects near these downed wires. Stay away from damaged trees, and do not wade into floodwaters.
• Avoid using open flames, especially indoors. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.
• Once the worst has passed, assess any and all damage that the building has received. Inspect every part of the property for possible destruction, including machinery, making sure to avoid standing water or using electricity. 
• Do not climb onto your roof unless the building has been deemed structurally sound, and practice precaution when climbing and working on ladders.
• If using a chainsaw to cut fallen or damaged trees or branches, take precautions to ensure they do not cause any more damage when they fall.
• Remove any wet material, such as rugs or carpets, and properly dry them out to prevent mold from establishing itself. Dry your premises by opening windows and doors; it can be helpful to have fans running if it can be done safely. 
• You are at risk for mold within the first 24-48 hours following a flood, so it is vital to remove the water as soon as possible and start remediation. Flooding poses a risk to drywall, support beams, and foundations, as well, and floodwater can also contain dangerous contaminants and sewage so it must be avoided.
• Keep track of everything that was destroyed or damaged in the storm by documenting it through photos or videos along with putting together a list of broken items. You will need this list for insurance purposes.

If your business has experienced a flooding event, contact SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown as soon as possible. Here at SERVPRO, our focus is your safety and we are here to offer our professional help for water damage, fire damage, and mold remediation. We have years of experience in these areas and we are happy to help.

Installing Appliances Properly To Avoid Water Damage

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4100!

Most of us like to save money by doing things ourselves, and there are actually a lot of projects around your home or business that you can complete yourself. These could be projects like painting and plastering, installing ceiling fans and lighting, installing tile or carpeting, or perhaps laying out and creating a backyard vegetable and herb garden. More experienced homeowners may be skilled enough to build brick walls, roof their own homes, or pour and finish concrete walkways and slabs, as well. We can find much of the information we need on the internet these days to help us begin and then execute projects and tasks of all kinds, and many home improvement centers now offer seminars and classes on do-it-yourself projects for all interested parties, too. 

There are some bigger home improvement projects that may take the help of a professional, however, due to their size or logistical challenges. Some tasks, when done incorrectly, can even cause unwanted damage that may make it worth your while to ask for assistance. In such cases as these, contracting the help of a professional company to complete the job may be the best choice. 

You could be considering replacing your large appliances in your home, and this may be a project you are thinking about completing yourself, but the logistics of a project such as this one can be a big challenge due to the size of many appliances and the technical know-how that is often necessary. It’s also extremely important that the installation is done correctly in order to avoid water damage in the future. It is very often more cost-effective to ensure that a job is done right the first time. 

Here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown, we are ready to help with household or business projects of all sizes, so if you do happen to experience water damage, we are here to help! If you have experienced storm damage, fire damage, or mold infestation, we are experts in each of these areas, and we are proud to serve our community.

Steps To Take When Your Ceiling Is Leaking

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Give us at call at 215.368.4110, we would love to help!

It will always be immediately obvious when you have a leak in your ceiling! Drips of water, discolored tiles or plaster, and peeling paint are going to be dead giveaways. It isn’t always as obvious as to where that water is coming from, and it can be difficult to find the source. Common causes will include: leaky or burst pipes, a toilet or tub that has overflowed, and leaks in your roofing, just to name a few. In addition to unsightly staining and damage to your interiors, it can lead to mold if they are from a smaller leak, while large leaks and burst pipes can cause your ceiling to crumble completely in a fairly short period of time. If you have a serious issue you will probably want to call a professional full-service repair company. 

In the meantime, here are a couple of steps to take when your ceiling is leaking: 

• Dry the Ceiling. If the damage is minor, you will want to find the source first and repair that. Using fans and dehumidifiers can be a big help after the repair is done, and you may want to rent commercial units for the best effect. You can use scaffolding to raise these machines up near the ceiling, improving airflow and getting things drier faster. 
• Paint/Repair. For a minor ceiling situation, you can make repairs without replacing drywall or plaster by scrubbing the area to take away loose debris, wiping the area with a clean cloth, and allowing it to air dry. If your ceiling is painted, apply a primer to block water spots, and then apply 2 coats of paint, blending it into the damaged areas. For a plaster ceiling, just fill in the gaps and cracks with new plaster.

The steps above are great for someone who is a do-it-yourselfer or when the damage is minor, but if you have experienced a large leak in your ceiling with a lot of damage to your building, you can always rely on us here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown. We are water damage and fire damage experts and skilled in mold prevention and remediation, too.

How To Repair Hardwood Floors After Water Damage

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

A flooding event of any size will have a negative effect on your building and property, and your wood floors will really suffer. Any time water saturates hardwood, the wood absorbs the water through its pores and this, in turn, causes warping and discoloration. If you have experienced water damage to your wood flooring, you will want to follow these steps to repair them:

• Removing Water. Soak up the water as quickly as possible. The longer the water remains, the worse the damage will be. The first 24 hours are critical, but if you are able to remove the water and dry your floors completely, you may be able to avoid serious and irreversible damage. You will also be alleviating the possibility of a mold invasion. 
• Sanding/Refinishing. You will need to sand and refinish the wood. This repair can bring your floors back to pre-flood condition and will save you all the time and money involved in having your damaged flooring removed and new flooring installed. 
• Contacting Professionals. When you have experienced extensive water damage, such as from a tornado, hurricane, or severe flooding due to a large weather event, your best bet will be to contact a professional water damage restoration service. They are experts in this area and will have the personnel and equipment necessary to get your water damage taken care of as fast as possible. Make sure you call them right away! If your area has suffered a weather disaster, these companies will probably have a waitlist. 
• Taking Preventive Measures. 
• Find the source of water and take the necessary steps to stop the flow. 
• If you have carpeting on top of your hardwood floor, remove both the carpet and the padding immediately and take care of any other wet objects, as well. You may have to deal with odors and discoloration after a water damage event. Remember that your restoration professionals can help you with carpet-cleaning after a water damage event, too.
• Use a shop-vac or household vacuum to extract as much water as you can. Rely on professionals if the amount of water is really extensive. 
• Prevent mold and preserve your hardwood floors by using a non-sudsy disinfectant, and then vacuum again to remove standing water. 
• Use a dehumidifier or run your heater or air conditioner constantly to keep the air dry inside the affected areas. This will help to prevent unpleasant odors and may provide a deterrent to mold, too. 

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown has the skills and equipment necessary to get your floors back to pre-damage condition, and we are always here to help with repairs and renovations to any area of your property when you are affected by water damage event, whether large or small. We also handle fire damage, and we are mold remediation experts, too.

Why SERVPRO

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

Just some of our amazing team!

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown professionals undergo extensive training and certification to ensure the team exceeds the industry standards. Whether it’s a small leak or a major disaster, our team is ready to handle the issue. The SERVPRO team genuinely cares about each and every customer and work to get them to preloss conditions in most cases. Every member is proud and passionate about the work they do for every customer. 

SERVPRO has a 24-Hour Emergency Service that provides help for those who need it.

SERVPRO provides detailed estimates that clearly list all services to be performed which helps to eliminate unforeseen surprises. Once the estimates have been approved, trained professionals will arrive in fully stocked vehicles to not only mitigate the problem but also to protect the structure and contents.

S – Service that exceeds the competition

E- Excellent communication throughout the process

R- Restoring property back into its pre loss state.

V- Vow our pledge to meet customers’ needs

P- Professionalism displayed with all team members.

R-Respected and Recognized as the industries leader

O- Outstanding Customer Service

Preventing Electrical Fires In Your Business

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4100!

Over 25,000 electrical fires happen right here in the United States every year, and fire damage can often be extremely damaging to a business. Damage can be sustained both from the actual event and the water that is used for the firefighting efforts, as well. As a smart business owner, we know you want to prevent this kind of disaster from occurring to your organization, so today we want to share some simple steps with you that you can take to prevent these electrical fires from happening in your business:

Inspection. One of the most important steps you can take is to have your business inspected for any hazardous situations that could cause a fire. A licensed electrician can help to keep you, your employees, and your property safe by letting you know what needs to be done after a thorough assessment. One example is to replace wiring in an older building; wiring is not made to last forever. 

Cords and Plugs. A very common cause of electrical fires is an electrical cord, plug, or outlet damage. If these items are found to be tattered or frayed, worn out or showing burn signs, they should be replaced immediately. Cords in poor condition can overheat or cause a spark, which can lead to a full-blown fire. Replacing damaged cords is a simple and relatively inexpensive safeguard against electrical fires and can even be purchased for appliances separately if any are in poor condition.

Outlets. Take steps to avoid overloading your outlets. Overburdened sockets are another risk factor for an electrical fire. The United States Fire Administration recommends that you buy power strips equipped with internal overload protection; this feature will ensure that a strip shuts off its power supply as soon as it becomes overloaded, helping prevent fire damage. 

Space heaters. Any appliance that plugs in can be dangerous if not used carefully. Flammable materials such as paper, cardboard, coats, and rugs, need to be watched and kept away from any equipment that produces heat or can overheat. 

Wiring. Faulty wiring is yet another hazard, and if a flickering lamp or sparking outlet is something you are experiencing, contact a licensed electrician your area to make the necessary repairs. If anything that conducts electricity feels warm to the touch, have your electrician check it out to see if it needs to be replaced. 

Just a few minutes of time, a few preventive measures, and a few dollars to replace items that could be dangerous can save lives and property, as well as save you from expensive fire damage clean up. If your business suffers from water or fire damage, remember that the SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown team is ready to help any hour of the day or night.

Why Your Business Should Have an ERP

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

Benjamin Franklin wisely said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” It’s advice that can easily apply to a business. Water damage, fire damage, storm damage and other disasters can ravage corporations. A staggering 50 percent of these companies are too crippled to reopen. So how are the other 50 percent able to rebound? They have a readiness plan.

An ERP (Emergency Readiness Plan) is a method of planning for emergencies long before they occur. It’s a carefully devised, well-rehearsed strategy that guides you and your employees to take decisive action during a catastrophe. Here are some things to consider while putting your ERP into place:

PONDER THE WORST CASE SCENARIOS

Encourage your employees to formulate as many disaster scenarios as they can. One of the worst calamities in the US occurred in the 2010 when a city was deluged by 13.57 inches of rain within 36 hours. Studying such tragedies can help you more effectively plot possible situations.

DETERMINE PROTECTIVE ACTIONS

It is necessary to create an ERP that protects anyone in the building. The Department of Homeland Security refers to this as “Protective Actions for Life Safety,” including:

• Fire Drills -- Rehearsals for action during a fire.
• Sheltering -- Sheltering staff during a natural disaster.
• Sheltering in Place -- Sheltering staff during a man-made emergency.
• Lockdown -- Eluding an active shooter.

LEARN HOW TO STABILIZE THE INCIDENT

Stabilizing an incident means preventing further damage on the scene. This can be accomplished by training your employees in various rescue procedures including:

• First Aid and CPR
• Proper Use of Fire Extinguishers

TRAIN AN EVACUATION TEAM

Without guidance during an evacuation, people may blindly panic. Consider adding an evacuation team to your ERP:

• Assign employees to guide evacuees out of the building.
• Appoint helpers to assist persons with disabilities.
• If an exit is blocked by a hazard such as a collapsed ceiling, make sure the evacuation team is trained to redirect employees to an alternate exit.

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown, is a fast, reliable, proactive provider of emergency cleaning and restoration services for fire and water damage. SERVPRO can expertly help you devise an effective Emergency Readiness Plan for your business in the Philadelphia, Montgomery County Area area.

The SERVPRO Ready Plan information will give you the security of emergency preparedness. The information can be downloaded into the Ready Plan app to instantly share with SERVPRO, so that the damage can be intercepted. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

How to Protect your Home or Business in a Flood Zone

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

If your home or business has recently suffered from storm or flood damage, then contact SERVPRO of Warminster, Lansdale, and Blue Bell at 215.368.4110

Each year homeowners face the possibility of flooding, whether it’s from a heavy rain storm or a burst piping. It’s important to stay prepared & to protect your property if you live in or work near a flood zone. Although you can’t completely stop a flood, you can minimize the impact that water has on your property. Below are a few steps you can do to help keep water from invading or destroying your property.

Have a Plan

The best thing you can do if you think you live in a flood zone is to have a plan of action in advance. Here is a list of things to consider:

• Store all important documents in a watertight secure container.
• Have a separate lockbox for jewelry & any other valuables.
• Contact your marketing representative at SERVPRO of Woodland Hills in advance and set up an Emergency Ready Plan for protecting your home & getting a quick service response after a flood.

Invest in Sandbags & Flood Barriers

Let’s face it, some homes are more susceptible to water damage. Lower flood water, however, can be contained by simply laying out sandbags & setting up flood barriers around your doors. Even if some water manages to get, sandbags & flood barriers can reduce the water damage & can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.

Rethink Your Home’s Construction

If you are building a new home or renovating your current one, then invest in components that are waterproof or create a tighter seal around the structure. Some of these include:

• Concrete flooring instead of wooden floorboards
• One-way valves in your plumbing to prevent water backup in the plumbing system
• Waterproof all of your electrical outlets
• Cement render & lime plaster
• Water resistant window & door frames
• Flood skirts around brick homes 

We are Cleaning Experts

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Call today for your precautionary or confirmed case cleaning at 215-368-4110!

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.

Why SERVPRO in a Storm Situation?

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

We are well equipped to handle any size disaster! Call us at 215-368-4110!

By calling us you will have peace of mind knowing that SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell has taken care of everything that’s affected by flooding during this storm season. If you choose SERVPRO to restore your property your personal items and real property will be treated with care and concern.

Water damaged belongings are dried to prevent damage and mold growth. While the cost is the reason why the majority of people will try doing it on their own, people usually save money through hiring professionals like us.

If you evaluate your time, the extra work to dry your contents and consider the damage’s extent, you'll see that choosing a professional is the right choice.  Once you surmise that it’s too much for you to handle,  choose to work with the professionals at SERVPRO who can extract water properly and quickly and get you back to normal after a flood.

Preparing Your Business For An Emergency

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Give SERVPRO a call to start setting up your ERP!

In the event of an emergency, the Emergency READY Profile^® or ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. Working with SERVPRO® of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell on an ERP will provide you with a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas.

The ERP also establishes your local SERVPRO^® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 40 years of experience and a System over 1,600 Franchises strong. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO^® of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell at 215.368.4100 or visit www.SERVPROoflansdale.com to establish your Emergency READY Profile^®, and be "Ready for whatever happens."

What To Do When Your Home Floods

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110

If your home has been flooded, the proper steps need to be taken to ensure the safety of your family along with the integrity of the structure. If the levels of flooding are not severe, here are the steps to follow so your house can get back to normal in no time. If the flooding is severe, make sure to bring in the professionals to handle the issue. 

Here are some steps to take if your house is flooded: 

• Evacuate everyone from the premises as soon as possible once the flooding starts. Find a dry, safe spot away from the house while waiting for the flooding to stop. If flooding is caused by a natural disaster, call the authorities or listen to the local news to find a temporary shelter and relocate to that shelter when possible. Call 911 if anyone needs medical attention and make sure that everyone is accounted for and safe.
• Attempt to find the source of the flooding if it is not from a natural disaster. Stop it at the source, try to turn it off any faucet or seal it up; turning off the main water valve may also solve the issue.
• Turn off the electricity, but do not attempt to reach the fuse box if you have to walk through water to reach it! If you cannot reach the fuse box without stepping in water, call an electrician.
• Document all the damage by taking photos and videos of all the affected areas. This information will be necessary for insurance purposes if you need to file a claim. 

Next comes the clean-up process:

• Do not touch the water without the proper equipment, as it may be contaminated with sewage or other hazardous material. If you have to enter the establishment wear waders or waterproof boots.
• All of the water must be removed, and then a wet vacuum or a pump can be used to dispose of any standing water.
• Attempt to salvage any items that were not seriously damaged. Do not eat any food that has been contaminated by floodwater.
• If the water damage is not too bad, dry the space out with fans and dehumidifiers. Anything that was touched by the water also needs to be disinfected.

Warm, wet spaces are an attractive breeding ground for mold colonies, so act as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth.

• Your property needs to be as dry as possible to prevent mold spores from growing. Once a mold colony gets established it is not possible to remove completely. Keep the affected areas as dry as possible and treat them with a strong cleaner, such as a bleach solution. 
• Open any windows and doors to let fresh, dry air in and circulate. 

If the damage to your home is critical and you doubt you are capable of fixing the issue by yourself, don’t hesitate to call us to assist you in getting your house back to normal. Here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell we are experts when it comes to water damage repair and restoration, and we are mold prevention and remediation pros, too.

Keeping Your Drapes Odor Free

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Keep you drapes odor free!

Dirty draperies can make the entire room smell dingy and look unattractive. No one wants to deal with unpleasant odors; cleaning and deodorizing your drapes regularly can go a long way to making a space fresh, pleasant, and appealing.

Just removing your drapes from the curtain rod and putting them into your washing machine can be very effective if they are made of cotton or polyester blends, but some textiles, such as velvet, silk, taffeta, chenille, and brocade, simply can’t be safely cleaned by that method. These types draperies will have to be dry cleaned, as well as sheers and those that are insulated or lined. The care of a professional might be needed to remove spots and unsightly stains, as well.

Before you undertake this project, take a look at the care instructions for your draperies, usually located on a tag inside. These instructions will let you know how the material should be cared for, with specifics as to water temperature, the type of cleaning solutions that will be safe, and what the dryer setting will need to be. It might even be necessary to air dry them.

Over time, drapes will collect dust and grime just from hanging in a room. They will collect odors as well, and the smell can affect the entire room. A proper cleaning, whether DIY or professional, with restore your rooms to their normal sweet, odor-free state.

If you decide to do it yourself, you will want to start with a good vacuuming! It’s not necessary to take them down if you can reach them properly. After the vacuum cleaning, a hand-held steamer will work nicely to give them a fresh look and scent. Before steaming, you will want to be sure that the cleaning instructions don’t advise against it. Those that can be machine washed will be taken down and washed and dried; make sure you remove them from the dryer immediately to alleviate wrinkles.

After your draperies have been cleaned and re-hung, you can lightly spray them with linen spray, if their care allows. This will add a lovely scent to the room, and definitely deodorize them to keep any bad odors from hanging around.

How to Safely Use Your Fire Pit

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Have fun and be safe!

Now that it’s becoming more pleasant outside, many of us are uncovering our firepits and looking forward to spending time gathering around them to enjoy time with family and friends. Practicing fire safety is going to be an important thing to remember. 

Let’s have a quick refresher on how to safely use your firepit:

Whether you prefer a built-in or portable fire pit, choose one that is not too large for the area. The pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires.

Make sure that the seating area is large enough and properly placed for comfort and ventilation.

Don’t start your fire if it’s really windy; a strong breeze can easily blow sparks onto nearby flammable materials, such as firewood piles or roofs, and can hurt people, too. 

Burn only dry material. Damp material will create excess smoke. 

Don’t use lighter fluid or gasoline to get your fire going as it can easily burn out of control or even result in explosions. Don't burn tires, aerosols, fireworks, or anything containing paint or foam to avoid toxic fumes which could also explode and cause injury.

To start the fire, use a lighter to ignite crumpled pieces of paper covered with small sticks. Then, add larger sticks and a log or two to keep it burning. 

Wear non-flammable clothing and hard-soled shoes when starting, sitting near, or extinguishing the fire. 

Never leave the fire unattended, and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.

Keep the proper fire extinguishing equipment, or at least a water hose, handy in case there is an emergency. You could also fill a bucket with sand, which can be used instead of water to help extinguish a fire.

As the fire dies down, use a shovel and spread out the ashes to allow them to cool down. Then slowly pour water over those ashes and watch them closely to be sure that no burning embers remain or reignite. Put the cooled ashes in a specially designated ash storage metal can. 

Why SERVPRO

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110, we are happy to help!

When looking at companies who can provide you with water mitigation, mold remediation and fire restoration services you might ask yourself, why SERVPRO?

Let me tell you somethings about SERVPRO:

1. SERVPRO has been around since 1967 when Ted and Doris Isaacson founded the company which started as a painting business. Today, more than 1,700 SERVPRO franchises exist nationwide. Therefore, SERVPRO has proved to be an outstanding company. SERVPRO is actually one of the top 10 franchises today.

2. Our SERVPRO started over 25 years ago. Our owner started a SERVPRO franchise, with no other employees, one vehicle and just a couple pieces of equipment. Since then, we now operate with about 20 employees, multiple types of vehicles, a wide range of equipment for all types of work in our field. We have been successful, which has allowed us to grow.

3. All of our technicians are trained and specialists in the work that they do. 

4. We work with your insurance company to make sure you are covered for the work that we complete. If your insurance company does not cover a service we recommend, we will let you know the price before the work is done.

5. We work quickly to ensure that your home is back to normal ASAP.

6. We appreciate your feedback! We would like to know if your happy with our services. We also are interested in knowing if your unhappy with our services. We want to make it right, and fix anything that may have gone wrong.

Preparing You Business for Heavy Rain this Spring

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

April Showers Bring May Flowers!

Damage prevention is always going to save you both time and money. Preparing your business for heavy spring rainstorms will do just that. Water damage is at the top of the list of weather events that a business can suffer from, and the cleanup for this kind of event can be extensive, as well. With that in mind, we would like to share some ways you can prepare your business for heavy rains. 

• The number one way to prevent damage from water is through regular maintenance. Taking good care of the drainage areas for your entrances, your parking lots and your roofing will help you to avoid water damage from large amounts of water. All around your premises are areas that can be a risk to your customers and your workforce, so regularly scheduled inspections and repairs for these areas are vital for your preparation. 
• Instruct your workforce to say something if they see something. Vigilance will go a long way towards keeping your premises in good repair ahead of the rainy seasons. 
• Make it part of your routine to look around your grounds for overflowing ditches or gutters after heavy rains and storms, and take note of standing water, too. Issues like these can cause erosion and potholes, not to mention breed mosquitoes. You can prepare your business for the next round of spring rains by identifying your vulnerable areas.
• If you have a flooding event, large or small, it is always going to be a good idea to get it cleaned up and dried completely as soon as possible. As you are recovering, take the time to record what you have found so that you can ensure that the proper renovations or repairs are made to help prepare you for the next round of storms. You may want to contact professionals to help you determine your most vulnerable areas and what the proper steps may be for storm and heavy rain preparation.

If you need help with cleanup from water damage, large or small, the SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is always ready to help. You can count on us for assistance with fire damage, mold prevention, and mold remediation, too.

Preventing Mold Growth in your Apartment buildings

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent Mold Growth in your Apartment.

Mold can take hold in 24-48 hours if the conditions are right. Once it begins a colony, it is impossible to remove completely, and the best you can hope for is remediation. As an apartment building owner, you are responsible for a lot of people and a lot of living spaces. A mold infestation is one of those things you really don’t ever want to see. Here are a few ways you can stay on top of it:

• Educate your tenants. When a new tenant signs their lease, provide them with literature about mold and how it starts. Make sure the information is written in such a way that anyone can understand it, and make sure all their questions are answered sufficiently. Post this information in all public spaces, especially laundry and pool areas. You can include this information again in monthly emails to all tenants, and post it on your website.
• Schedule inspections. Schedule mold inspections; they can correspond with pest control to make sure your tenants aren’t overly inconvenienced. Engage a professional to check the places where mold is most often found. A person or company with mold remediation experience will know what to look for and what information to provide you with when it comes to problem areas or tenants.
• Regular cleaning. Schedule regular deep cleaning of all laundry areas and pool-related spaces such as public bathrooms and showers. If you have a clubhouse, you will want to include it in this schedule as well. Any place where your property experiences a lot of foot traffic and involves water is a prime place for mold to take hold.
• Patio rules. Institute rules for patio, deck, and balcony areas. This is where people have a tendency to store things, and it isn’t going to help you keep an eye on mold if spots such as these are cluttered and inaccessible.

Being proactive will go a long way towards preventing the outbreak of mold in your apartment buildings. If a mold problem begins, don’t hesitate to call us here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell. We are mold remediation experts!

Fire Prevention in Your Kitchen

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Safety is Important!

Mealtime is a time when families get together. We all look forward to cooking a wonderful meal while visiting with our loved ones. When in the kitchen, you should practice fire safety, so that you can prevent a fire in this room known as the heart of the home. Fire damage can be incredibly costly; a single fire may cause hundreds if not thousands of dollars in fire damage, and can put those you love at risk. Here are some fire prevention tips for your kitchen:

Cleanliness. Before you even begin to prep for the meal, ensure that the entire kitchen is clean by clearing all grime from the oven, washing the microwave, and making sure the floors are swept. Leftover food particles and grease can help a fire ignite before you know it. A clean kitchen is a safe kitchen.

Protection. When cooking, make sure to wear the right clothing. Don’t wear anything with dangling sleeves that could catch or spread a fire. Oven mitts are a must when you bring things out of the stove, too. Hot pots, pans, and utensils can catch other items on fire, so prepare a place to put them after you bring them out. Clear an area for hot items, and make sure the surface is clean and dry. 

Children. Mealtime brings the kids into the kitchen, and they will enjoy help you by performing simple tasks, such as helping to get things out of the fridge. You can use this time to teach them fire safety and to ensure that they know to keep away from stoves and any other place where there might be live flames.

Proper Storage. One of the best ways to help prevent fires in your kitchen is to store all chemicals like solvents away from any heat source. Keep cleaning fluids on shelving that is protected far away from the stove and range, and make sure that any pots you are using have all handles away from everyone in the kitchen. Knocking a burning pot or pan onto the floor or a person can cause serious injuries and start a fire quickly. 

Your kitchen should always be filled with friends, family, and food, and SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is here to help make that happen. Whether your home suffers from fire damage, water damage, or a mold infestation, we are ready at a moment’s notice!

How to Handle Mold in Your Carpet

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

How to Handle Mold in your Carpet

When the weather is humid, keeping your carpet dry and free from mold can be a challenge. Dampness, together with dust and dirt, are tracked in by day-to-day foot traffic, and that creates conditions deep in your carpet that are perfect for the establishment of a mold colony. 

Here are some tips to help you handle mold in your carpet:

• Sweep the affected area with a broom to loosen the mold growth.
• Vacuum the area to remove as much mold as possible, and empty the vacuum bag into the garbage immediately.
• Using a mixture of dishwashing soap and water, scrub the affected area with the solution.
• Let it dry in the sun if you are able to bring your carpeting out of doors, as this is one of the best ways to disinfect material. If you cannot take it outside, pat it dry using dry towels or rags. 

Here is another method that can cleanse your carpet of mold:

• Scrub the affected areas with a rag soaked in dishwashing detergent and water, or do a base clean with a steam cleaner.
• Using household bleach with a gallon of water, soak the mold patch for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Using a steam cleaner, suck up the liquid, and then pat the carpet dry or remove outside into the sunshine. 

If the mold growth is too much for you to handle on your own, or you would like the assistance of professionals, SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell has all the equipment and experience needed to help with any of your mold remediation needs. Our team is experienced and equipped to help with mold remediation, as well as both water damage and fire damage clean up projects of all sizes.

Fire Threats to Be Aware of In Your Restaurant

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Always know where you fire hydrants are placed in your business!

A restaurant kitchen fire can happen in no time, and in that environment, there are many fire threats to be aware of. Awareness and caution can help to keep fires from starting, and also be vital in keeping the fire from spreading, threatening peoples’ lives and damaging expensive property and equipment. 

• The first fire threat you will think of will be the ovens. If there is a fire in an oven, close the door immediately and turn it off, leaving the door closed. Lack of oxygen will suffocate the flames. If the oven continues to smoke and you think the fire may have continued, call the fire department right away. 
• The next threat will be your stovetops. When it is a fire in a cooking pan or pot, use an oven mitt or other protection to put the lid on right away, and move it off the burner. Turn off the stove and wait for the lack of oxygen to stop the flames inside your pot. If you are not able to safely put the lid on the flaming pan, or if there is no lid readily available, use the kitchen fire extinguisher. Always aim at the base of the fire, not the flames themselves. 
• A major fire threat in any restaurant kitchen is going to be a grease fire. Never throw water on this type of fire; water repels grease and will splash, spreading the fire by splattering the grease. Try one of these methods instead:
• If the fire is small, put on the lid and turn off the burner.
• Dump baking soda on it. Do not use flour; it can explode or cause the fire to expand and thread. 
• Smother the fire with a wet towel or other large, wet cloth. 
• Use a fire extinguisher. 
• Swatting the fire with a towel, apron, or other material is likely to fan the flames and spread the fire. 
• If the fire is spreading and you don’t have control, evacuate your kitchen and restaurant premises and call emergency personnel. 

For cleanup after any type of fire, the SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is always ready to help. We have all the training, skills, and equipment necessary to get you back in business as soon as possible. We are also water damage and mold remediation specialists.

How Often Should You Clean Your Rain Gutters?

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Clean your rain gutters!

Unclogging gutters and rain spouts are an important part of home maintenance in the fall and spring. It’s an easy job to do yourself, but if you are afraid of heights or doubt your ability to get it done, don’t forget your friends here at SERVPRO of Lansdale. We can help you in both cleaning and unclogging your gutters, which help to keep you from dealing with damage from water during the wet months.

You risk experiencing water damage to your roof, basement and crawl space if gutters and rain spouts are not cleaned out regularly. So how often should you clean out your rain gutters? It’s going to be important to take care of this task before the rainy season hits in the spring, summer and into the fall, for sure, so it is probably a good idea to complete this task at least three times a year, ahead of wet and windy weather. Debris will build up in your gutters at those times, preventing water from draining down and out, and if the gutters can’t channel the water when it rains, it ends up pooling and backing up into your walls and attic, or near your foundation and in your basement.

You will want to use step ladders on solid level ground and try to schedule cleaning when the weather has been dry for a few days. This way, the debris, leaves and pine needles won’t be as soaked and will be much easier to remove. Remove larger debris and then follow that up with a powerful hose that washes everything else down towards the downspout. You will also want to clean the gutter filter screens and make sure there are no clogs in your downspout. If these tasks seem like more than you want to handle alone, call us!

Contact us here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell for any water damage caused by your rain gutters. Gutter cleaning and unclogging rain spouts is an easy regular home maintenance fix. Do your family a favor by preventing water damage to your home or business with regularly cleaning your rain gutters

Steps To Take if Your Power Goes Out During A Storm

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell the next time there is a storm event in our area! We're happy to help!

A power outage is not that unusual during stormy weather, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared. We’re going to share some steps with you today that can help you keep your premises warm and safe when bad weather blows into town. 

Keep Warm. If you have enough advance notice, heat your building really well and guard those higher temperatures ahead of the storm’s arrival so that your interiors stay warm longer if the power goes out. Make sure to use your fireplace or wood-burning stove if available. You may want to stockpile thick blankets, pillows, and heavy clothing just in case this event requires everyone to stay put for a while. A blizzard or heavy weather that causes flooding can create this kind of situation easily. 

Charge Devices. Keep all cell phones, iPads, and laptops plugged in so that they are fully charged if you lose power. This step will guard your ability to get important information about the conditions in your area and enable you to contact emergency personnel if necessary. 

Recharging with Vehicles. Cars and trucks can be used to recharge cell phones if those batteries start to die. Ensure that the vehicles are not running in enclosed spaces to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Landlines. You may want to consider installing a landline ahead of seasonal bad weather. A cordless phone won’t work if the power goes out, while a corded landline draws power from the line itself and so is more reliable under these circumstances. 

Don’t Call. Working cell towers may be overloaded by others in the affected area calling to check in on each other or using the internet. Cell phone providers recommend text messaging rather than calling during a disaster, since text messages use much less network capacity or battery power. Getting on social media platforms for information might be tempting, but if possible, try to keep usage brief and use the phone's apps rather than web browsers to minimize network use and battery drain.

Battery-Powered Radios. If you have access to a battery-powered radio or car radio, use these to get your news updates rather than taxing the wireless network and your phone battery.

The team here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is ready to help if you have experienced damage from fire or flooding. We are large-scale cleanup experts, but we handle restorations of all sizes.

What Can Cause Water Damage in Your Commercial Building?

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

Water damage of any kind can be devastating to a business. Even the smallest of leaks left unchecked can create huge amounts of trouble and cost a lot of money to repair. As a business owner, you may be thinking about ways you can prevent this from affecting your business, so let’s talk about what can cause water damage in your commercial building:

Pipes. Your commercial building may be older, with plumbing that has seen better days. Leaky pipes can easily become an issue as the gaskets and seals wear out and the pipes themselves break down. 

Faucets. In kitchens, break rooms, bathrooms, and shops you are going to have sinks and water faucets. A faucet that is older and that has developed a drip can not only annoy you but can cause a lot of damage if it’s ignored for too long. 

Roofing. The roofing of your commercial building should be kept in top shape to guard against water damage. If a roof is not in the best shape and has developed weak spots and small holes, the walls and ceilings of your building are in danger. 

Spills. Spills of all sizes can cause damage if they are not cleaned up in a timely manner. Even the smallest puddle of water can seep into all kinds of materials, resulting in warped wood, discolored tiles, and flaking plaster. Keep in mind that it only takes a little amount of damp to attract a mold colony, and that just takes the damage to another level. 

Floods. When heavy, wet weather hits, a flood can occur. We’ve all seen the pictures of what a flood can do, and it can be devastating. From washing away walkways and trees to moving vehicles and even the building itself, a flood is a powerful force. 

If you experience water damage in your commercial building, call us here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell. We’ll be there right away to help you get back to normal. We are restoration pros, and we handle mold, too.

How to Properly Use Space Heaters

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

When used properly, space heaters can be a big help in cold weather!

During the winter, your central heating system works overtime. Sometimes you may only need to heat one room and give your main heater a break by using a portable space heater - an effective option, and one that can save you some money, too. 

These units are high-wattage appliances, though, and they do have the potential to cause fires in your home if not used correctly. Today, we are sharing some tips on the proper use of space heaters so that you and your loved ones can stay safe. 

When Purchasing A Space Heater

• Label. Check to see that your heater is listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Smart Heaters. Purchase one with a sensor that will shut it off automatically if it overheats or gets tipped over. 

• Preparation. Install smoke detectors in your home, as well as carbon monoxide alarms. These need to be tested monthly. 
• Inspection. Inspect your heater and its cord and plug. Do not use it if you think it could be defective. 

Setting Up Your Space Heater

• Placement. Place your heater on a solid flat surface, and make sure it’s at least 3 feet from anything flammable. If it is being used in the garage or workshop, keep it away from any paint, oil, and gas cans. 
• Hazards. Don’t place the heater on furniture or cover it up, and be careful of high-traffic areas and doorways, where someone could trip over it and get burned. Never run a power cord under carpets, rugs, or furniture. 
• Plugs. Plug your heater into an outlet directly instead of using an extension cord or power strip. Make sure the plug fits well and is the only plug in the outlet.  
• Water. Always keep your heater away from water, and if you’re wet - don’t touch it. 

Running Your Space Heater

• Check. Check your heater often to make sure that the plug, cord, outlet, or faceplate isn’t hot. If it is, stop using it immediately, and remember that a hot cord may mean it is defective and could ignite a fire. 
• Time. Don’t run your heater 24/7. It isn’t made to work for long periods of time. 
• Turn it off. Never leave a space heater unattended or in a child’s room, and turn it off while you are sleeping. 

SERVPRO is Hiring!

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

Join our team!

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is currently hiring Production and Cleaning Technicians. 

The requirements for this position:

• Must have a professional appearance and great attitude.
• A valid driver license with a reasonable driving record.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions or misdemeanors involving violence or theft.
• Must be able to pass a drug test.
• Because we provide 24-hour emergency services, must be willing to be on call, as needed.
• Some night and weekend work is required.
• Willing to travel for storm events
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
• Must have a high school diploma or a GED certificate.
• Experience preferred but not necessary. 
  
  Please call 215.368.4110 or email resume to Megan.S@SERVPROWLBB.com 

Water Damage - Commercial

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage in the Break Room

When it comes to any mitigation work in a commercial setting, getting it done fast and right is essential.  A definite bonus to those items is being able to work quickly enough to save the content of the business like furniture, desks and computers.  SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is in the business of restoring items....not throwing it away and buying a new one.  If an item can be saved or restored to like-new status it is worth the time to do so.  This is especially important to our customers and also the insurance company.

We take extra special care to protect items from damage while we do work, whether that is content shifting and covering items at the loss or boxing it up to clean up back at our shop.  Our content specialists do amazing clean-up on a wide variety of materials and types of damage.

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is very proud of keeping the "restore" in restoration!

Smoke Alarm Safety

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke Alarm

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.* The National Fire Protection Association

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.  Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshal to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

SMOKE ALARM SAFETY TIPS:

-Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement according to alarm instructions.  Larger homes may need more smoke alarms.

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

-Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the 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 right away.

-Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

*Tips and statistics provided by the National Fire Protection Association.

Winter Water Damage

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

For the Philadelphia area and most of the northern United States winter freezing temperatures are always a cause for concern. 

Besides the fact that it is freezing to us, it is also freezing our pipes!  Frozen pipes many times lead to broken pipes and during these times of frozen pipes the restoration industry is swamped with work.  When this happens we are lucky to have the backing of SERVPRO to help us in this time!  Whether is it the polar vortex or just a week of ridiculously cold weather, SERVPRO franchises are always available to help out others who are at max work capacity.

This gives you the ability to have quick service and know that you are still getting industry-leading equipment, set-up, monitoring and restoration services.  

Available 24/7

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  We will work hard to restore your residential or commercial property and its contents to preloss condition helping you become a hero in a disaster situation. 

SERVPRO has a great network of franchises that can be called on in big weather events and we are proud to be a part of that.

Being available whenever you need us means...

- A quick response may help avoid revenue loss for property owners and minimize inconvenience to tenants.

- Restoration services can help you resume normal business functions quickly while avoiding costly construction downtime and lost revenue.

- Professional equipment and industry-approved techniques can save you time and money.

Let SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster and Blue Bell help your business get back on its feet quickly!

Technology Helping with Storms

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Free ERP for your business or home!

These days, it is important to be ready for a storm and disaster can strike at a moment’s notice! Technology working hard to let us be aware of danger with more time to prepare before it hits! Technology can also be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare. Below are a few things that will help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Store Information Online

There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer a free way to store different types of files, from a Word document to images of important documents. Ready.gov suggests saving an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets, if necessary.

Follow the News

Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed through Twitter.

Mark Yourself Safe

The American Red Cross offers a Safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in situations where communication is difficult to establish. Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you’re located in the affected area at that time.

Get in Touch

Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in your phone and e-mail for communication with family, friends, business contacts, and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster.

Charge Up

Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well. Get an Emergency READY Profile®SERVPRO® of Birmingham is proud to offer Emergency READY Profiles® (ERP) for free at ready.SERVPRO.com to help prepares you, your property, or your business for an emergency.By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® for your property or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your property or business. Put help in the palm of your hand with the Ready Plan App.  Get in touch with SERVPRO® of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell today for more information on developing an ERP for your property or business!

Are You Prepared for a Power Outage?

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Ready Kit

You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. Depending on the nature of the disaster road conditions may prevent help from arriving in a timely manner. 

Additionally, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages.  If the power goes out keep your pipes from freezing by shutting off the valve that allows water to come into your home. Then, open any drain valves and all faucets and let them run until the pipes are empty (it's helpful to identify these valves in advance). Next, flush all toilets and pour denatured alcohol into toilets and sinks to prevent water in the traps from freezing. Do NOT use automotive antifreeze in case there's trouble with your water system; you don't want the antifreeze to contaminate your drinking water. You may, however, use nontoxic antifreeze that's made for winterizing motor homes.

Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1.     Flashlights for each family member

2.     Battery-operated radio and clock

3.     Extra batteries

4.     Containers of bottled water

5.     Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants

6.     Non-electric can opener

7.     List of important phone numbers

8.     First-aid kit

Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

•Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

•Choose foods your family will eat.

•Remember any special dietary needs.

•Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

•Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.

•Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener

•Protein or fruit bars

•Dry cereal or granola

•Peanut butter

•Dried fruit

•Nuts

•Crackers

•Canned juices

•Non-perishable pasteurized milk

•High energy foods

•Vitamins

•Food for infants

•Comfort/stress foods

These and many other helpful tips are available at ready.gov Here is the link to winter tips for before during and after a winter storm http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather When winter weather strikes the Philadelphia area knowing what to do until SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell arrives will make a difference.  Call us directly at 215-368-4110

Hurricane Preparedness - Be Ready

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Fleet

The two keys to weather safety is to PREPARE for the risks and to ACT on those preparations when alerted by emergency officials.

Before a Hurricane:

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Know your surroundings
• Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone.
• Identify levees and dams in your area and determine whether they pose a hazard to you.
• Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground.
• Make plans to secure your property
• Cover all of your home's windows
• Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure.
• Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Reinforce your garage
• Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
• Determine how and where to secure your boat.
• Install a generator for emergencies.
• If in a high-rise building, when high winds are present, be prepared to take shelter on a lower floor because wind conditions increase with height, and in a small interior room without windows.
• Consider building a safe room.

Ice Dam and Snow Removal Services

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Ice Dam Removal

What is an ice dam?

An ice dam is the ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof which prevents melting snow from draining as it should. The water that backs up behind the ice dam can leak into the home and cause damage to walls, floors, ceilings, insulation, and other areas. Most ice dams occur on the lowest edge of your roof. 

There are 6 warning signs for ice dams:

1.     Your home has had ice dams in the past.

2.     You see roof ice– icicles forming on the edge of the roof, or off the front edge of the gutter.

3.     Ice is coming through the soffit.

4.     Ice is forming behind the gutters (if gutters are present).

5.     You see ice or water on the exterior wall.

6.     You see water coming through the frame of a door or window.

Professional Ice Dam Removal

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell offers safe, professional snow and ice dam removal services for your home or business. Our experienced team will be onsite within a matter of hours, saving you time, effort and costly repairs later. Don't wait until it's too late. Call us today and have the job done safely and done right. 215-368-4110.

Why SERVPRO? Because We Care!

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO, because we care!

At SERVPRO, our number one priority is to make our customers happy. It may sound like the impossible task; after all, we are arriving on the scene when circumstances for our customers are devastating. A fire in their home, a busted pipe which has caused water damage in their kitchen, mold in their office building. These are difficult situations emotionally which is all the more reason for our employees to be sensitive to what our customers are dealing with. Many times, depending upon the damage we are mitigating, we could spend days, weeks, or even months in customer’s home or office. We get to know our clients one on one. We get to meet their children. We get to hear about their families. We know their pets’ names. We know where they leave the key in case they are not there. We get to know them by carefully handling all of their cherished possessions, sometimes cleaning them and packing them away until their homes are restored. At the end of the day, we are just people helping people.  That’s what it’s all about.

Why SERVPRO?? Because we care about our customers...And they know it! Let us be the one you call when your life gets flipped upside down.

The Different Causes of Commercial Water Damage

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Ready for Any Size Disaster

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms.
 
However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.
 
1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems

Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment

This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.
 
3. Broken pipes and plumbing

Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result. 

4. Backed up sewer lines

This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. 
 
If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Warminster, Lansdale, and Blue Bell will get you back up and running again. Call us anytime 24/7 at 215-368-4110 for fast help.

Tornado's

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Tornadoes are created out of powerful thunderstorms and can cause fatalities and devastation in seconds. They are rotating, funnel-shaped clouds that extend from the thunderstorm itself down to the ground, and generally occur near the trailing edge of the storm. Winds from a tornado have been known to reach 300 miles per hour and can be obscured by rain or low-hanging clouds, developing so rapidly that advance warning is often almost impossible.

A tornado watch means that the present weather conditions are favorable for violent weather. Keep an eye out for these danger signs:
• Dark and greenish sky
• Large, dark, and low-lying clouds
• Hail
• Loud roar, often described as sounding like a passing train
A tornado warning means that a tornado has been spotted on the ground, or indicated by radar, and you will need to take cover immediately:
• Go to the lowest, most interior area of your home or business immediately, putting as many walls between yourself and the outdoors as you can.
• Stay away from windows, and do not open them.
• Use your arms to protect your head, or cover yourself with a mattress or sleeping bag/pillow.
• Remember where very heavy objects are on the floor above, and stay away from the area directly beneath, in case they fall through.

If you are in a mobile home, evacuate immediately. At school or work, you will need to follow the established drills to protect yourself. In an office building, go to an enclosed and windowless area near the center, away from glass and on the lowest floor possible. Make sure you stay off of elevators, as you could become trapped. Never try to out-drive a tornado; if you are caught in your car, get out of it and go to the nearest building. If you can’t get out, stay in the car with the seat belt on, and put your head down below the windows, covering your head with your hands, coat, or any other cushion. If you can safely get to an area that is much lower than the roadway, leave your car and lie down in that area, covering your head with your hands.
It is important to have a tornado safety plan in place at your home or office, letting your workforce and family know where to quickly take shelter.

When it comes to damages to your home or business by a tornado, hurricane or other severe weather, remember that the team here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you need us, we will be there right away.

When Water Damages Your Furniture

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage to your furniture is not always as bad as it might seem. Sometimes the damage is very manageable and can be repaired through some simple DIY steps. If you have some furniture that needs care after flooding or weather-related water damage, here are some tips you can follow to restore your furniture and carpeting.

Wood - When a piece of furniture made from wood has been soaked in water, the first step to be taken is to let it dry completely. Place it in a room that is warm and that enjoys good circulation. You can choose to turn on the heat and fans, as well. If the outdoor temperatures are warm, you may place the furniture outside, but take care that the temperature is warm enough - cold weather will cause the piece to dry more slowly and mold can establish a colony, while air that is too hot will cause cracks to form in the furniture.
White Spots - If you find white spots on the furniture, mix a solution of toothpaste and baking soda in equal parts. After dipping a wet cloth in this solution, rub it around and on the spots and polish the area with a dry piece of fabric made from cotton.
Mildew - Black spots indicate that water has seeped through the finish into the wood itself, and that leads to mildew. If this happens, it will require you to remove the finish, clean the mildew with a bleach solution and put on a new layer of finish.
Buckled Veneer - The veneer on your furniture may have buckled or warped through contact with water. You can soak the veneer with a moisturizer to cause it to lie down flat and then wipe it clean and dry. Next, fill a syringe with veneer glue, stick the needle between the veneer and the body of the furniture, emptying the syringe slowly. After it is removed, place a wood block on top of the veneer and wait for the glue to dry, following manufacturer recommendations.
When it comes to recovery of your property and possessions from water damage, the team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is always here to help. We are experts in the area of restoration from the damages of fire or water, and we are also mold prevention and remediation experts

Preparing for a Flood in your Business

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

You know that flooding, fire, and extreme weather can happen to a business at any time, and the structures and contents can easily be negatively affected. Staff can become injured or find themselves in dangerous situations, and these are scenarios you will want to be able to prevent or be ready for. You probably have an emergency preparedness plan in place, but when is the last time you looked it over? Updating your business emergency plan is a smart thing to do on a regular basis so that you will always be prepared:
• PROACTIVE MAINTENANCE. Make sure that all areas around your buildings are kept free from flammable materials and that landscaping is trimmed well on a regular basis to prevent fires from spreading if they occur. If you have replaced doors or windows lately, don’t just assume that they are properly sealed. Parking and entrance/exit areas need to always be clear and safe, in case of a disaster. Your emergency plan should include steps that need to be taken ahead of time that will lessen the effect a disaster could have. If there is heavy rainfall during inclement weather, or if the building is near a body of water such as a lake or river, low-lying spaces are going to be in danger. Keeping these areas in good repair before a flooding event occurs will go a long way towards avoiding bigger issues.
• EVACUATION INFORMATION. State law requires that you post an evacuation plan in a visible place for your staff and customers, and this needs to be up-to-date, with any floor plan or grounds changes noted. Make sure that your employees understand it and know how to carefully guide clientele to safe areas should a disaster occur.
• CURRENT CONTACT INFORMATION. Update your phone and email contact info monthly, so that all employees can be effectively alerted to important information whether they are at work or at home, should a disaster event occur.
Our team here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell are ready to help with water and fire damage, and we are proud to be mold remediation experts. Our professional damage restoration company is an important and welcome resource during tough times; we are able to complete all necessary repairs in a timely and efficient manner as well as keep you and your workforce out of harm’s way.

Water damage from a flood

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

If you live in an area that often experiences severe weather and flooding, you should make flood safety a priority in your  home. Use the following tips to help keep you, your family and your home safe during a flood.

1. Make an Emergency Kit

Depending on the severity of the storm you are expecting, your emergency kit may vary from time to time. However, there are some items that should always be included, such as flashlights, radios and batteries in case the power goes out. Canned food and bottled water are good additions as well.

2. Have an Evacuation Plan

While an emergency kit can be helpful for less damaging storms, you need to know how to leave your home safely if the weather becomes a threat. Create a flood safety plan with your family that includes each member as well as any pets. Make sure to practice ahead of time so you are all familiar with the procedure.

3. Do Not Travel Through Flood Waters

If you do need to evacuate your home, only travel on roads that have not been flooded. Even if the waters look shallow, there may be road damage or debris lurking underneath. Depending on the speed and depth of the moving water, cars can be carried away resulting in a dangerous situation.

4. Have Your Home Cleaned As Soon As Possible

The need for flood safety does not end when the flood does. Flood waters can cause contamination and might make your family sick if it is not completely removed. If water from a flood has entered your home, it is a good idea to hire an emergency remediation service to help with cleanup as well as any necessary repairs. Throw away any food that has been in contact with the water.

It can be difficult to know what to do during an emergency situation. Keeping these safety tips in mind will be beneficial to you and your family the next time you find yourself expecting severe weather.  If your home does suffer a water damage call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell at 215.674.8222

Water Damage Odors

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

After a water damage in your home, you may be facing a variety of problems. However, one that you may not expect are the odors a water damage can create. Mold growth, sewer water, and debris can all leave foul smells behind, even after the water is drained away. If you have recently experienced a flood in your home, there are a few ways to sniff out the source of these smells so you can have them eliminated.

1. Musty Smells

After floodwater enters your home, it may be absorbed by drywall and other porous building materials. This can cause mold to grow in the interior walls, especially if they contain insulation. Mold can cause a musty, foul odor due to the mycotoxins it can release. In most cases, the stronger the musty smell, the more serious the mold growth invasion.

2. Dirt or Earthy Odors

When outdoor flooding invades your home, it can also bring mud, clay and other types of dirt along with it. Earthy or wormy odors can be left behind in your walls or under carpeting, where they can linger for weeks afterward. Having porous building materials replaced can alleviate this issue. Consider having drywall and molding torn out and the rooms professionally cleaned before any reconstruction takes place.

3. Sewer Smells

Few odors are as unpleasant as those that come from a sewer. If your home experienced a flood due to a sewage loss, the bitter, foul smell could remain long after the water is drained away. Calling in a waterdamage restoration service may give you a number of options for removing this smell, from the use of ozone machines to special cleaning techniques that typically cannot be found elsewhere.

Mold growth, dirt and foul sewer smells can make your residence smell unbearable after a flood. Learning where these smells come from and how to eliminate them can restore your happy home.  Please call the water damage mitigation specialist at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell if your in need of odor removal or water damage mitigation.  215.368.4110

How SERVPRO can partner with your Business

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Owning a business in the hospitality industry involves a unique set of challenges. Especially if your business is successful! You will enjoy lots of customers as a successful business owner, and that’s great! With lots of traffic, your business will experience wear and tear above and beyond the norm, however, so you need to be prepared for these types of events and take a proactive viewpoint to stay ahead of the game.
Having a company such as SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell on your team will be a great benefit to you here. SERVPRO professionals are experienced in cleanups after fire damage or water damages, whether large or small, as well as being experts in the area of mold remediation. As a national franchise, we enjoy great business relationships with insurance professionals, so anything that will involve claims will be a breeze when you work with us.
Does your business involve food preparation? Heavy duty cleaning projects for industrial kitchens are all part of a day’s work for the team at SERVPRO. Going over your kitchen areas thoroughly to get hard to reach places sparkling clean will be something you can enlist us to complete. Stripping all tips of floors and deep cleaning, sanitizing, and restoring them is also something that we here at SERVPRO excel in.
Perhaps your business is as a hotelier. Floors are a concern here, too, but from a different perspective. You will want all your spaces to look as though no one has even been there! Fresh and pristine hallways and lobby areas are great first impressions for your patrons, and a company like SERVPRO that has years of experience in cleanups of all kinds will be the perfect answer to this type of challenge.
In the event that your hospitality-based business suffers damage from storms, accidents, or machinery malfunctions, or any other unforeseen issues that can come out of nowhere, enlist the help of SERVPRO to get things back to normal as soon as possible.

The team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is proud to serve our clients. Call us today for help with all your clean up projects! 215.368.4110

Preventing a Fire at your Business

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in your business is a serious concern. Even moderate damage can result in your facility being closed for repairs for weeks on end, and this can be financially devastating. The unfortunate reality is that no business is immune to the risk of fire. Some facilities may be more likely to endure damage from a fire, such as a restaurant that uses open flames throughout the day. However, there are many fire hazards that are present in most workplaces on a daily basis regardless of the type of activities that take place in the building. When you know what these hazards are, you can take proper steps to address and mitigate those risks and prevent possible fire damage and smoke damage.
Electrical Concerns
Damage to electrical wiring can result in sparks that quickly lead to damaging fires. Electrical wiring damage may include frayed cords, such as those connecting desktop computers to the wall power outlets. It may also include damage to internal wiring inside the walls, and these may be damaged by pests and other forces. Electrical fires may also start when power sockets are overloaded or when equipment gets too hot. Periodically review your company's wiring to identify areas of concern that need to be addressed.
Poor Equipment Maintenance
Other hazards in workplaces are related to poor equipment maintenance. For example, failing to service your furnace regularly may result in the accumulation of dust and other flammable debris. A gas leak in the furnace could result in a fire or an explosion. Fire hazards related to poor maintenance may also include dusty, dirty or greasy components, such as air ducts and vents, kitchen exhaust vents and many other features that are used throughout your facility. Scheduling necessary maintenance can decrease fire risk in these areas.
Flammable or Combustible Materials
Flammable and combustible materials are most commonly associated with industrial and warehouse environments, but even restaurants, hotels, dry cleaners and many other types of business may store combustible materials on-site. These materials should remain properly sealed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations at all times.
As you can see, there are numerous fire hazards that could result in serious damage in your business. If your business has already experienced fire damage, it is essential that repair work is completed as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster and Blue Bell is your trusted source for quality repair services. We can quickly restore your building to its previous condition so that operations can resume in your place of business. To request assistance with your damaged building, contact us today. You can reach us at 215.368.4110

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Water and Flood Damage Prevention

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

No business owner wants to see a loss happen because of flood damages, especially when they could have been prevented. There are the floods that happen because of bad weather, and then there are the water damages that come about due to equipment failure or negligence. Here are a few water damage prevention tips for you that will help you avoid the worst of both.
All appliances have a limited lifespan, so it’s important to check your refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters, HVAC units, and bathroom fixtures for any signs of failure. Flooding in these areas will create huge issues for you, especially if they happen over the weekend! Look for:

-The sound of running water
-Unpleasant odors in floors, walls, or drains
-Low water pressure
-Mold growing around appliance or fixtures
-Worn out hoses

If leaks are left untreated, they can lead to mold growth, stains, and floor and wall damages. Address any leaks immediately - this is one of the best water damage prevention tips we can give you!
Watching your water bill is another way to prevent problems. If it goes up considerably for no apparent reason, you probably have a leak somewhere. You can also read your water meter to maintain a check on it.
Maintaining roofs, gutters, and exterior windows and doors will go a long way towards keeping your business safe from the elements and flooding that can happen during heavy rains. Any drainage system on your property will need to be properly cared for, too, with debris and dirt clogging the system being removed regularly in case of heavy water. A backed up drainage system can be a huge flooding culprit.
If you are due for some landscaping, make sure any new large shrubs or trees are planted in places where they won’t interfere with pipelines, and remove those that are already in the danger zone. Root systems can easily break apart piping and create a flooding event. Choose those plants and trees that don’t have aggressive root systems, just to be safe.
When you are dealing with a flood or water damage, the SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell team is always here to help, 24/7. We are water and fire damage specialists, and we have years of experience with mold remediation and prevention, as well.

Sprinkler Systems in your Multi-Family Structure

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

The sprinkler system in your multi-family structure is made to go off when it senses extreme heat (174 degrees Fahrenheit or above). The heads contain a temperature-sensitive mechanism that can only be activated when the temperature at the sprinkler head exceeds the allowable range, and they operate independently, with those directly exposed being set off. Most fires are extinguished, or controlled, by three sprinklers or less, but the damage from just one sprinkler head can be significant: a sprinkler head can release from 15 to 40 gallons of water per minute and can fill an entire bathtub in under two minutes!
Prompt and professional decision-making following a sprinkler discharge in your multi-family structure is going to be essential; the actions you take in the first 24-48 hours will save you significant time and money in minimizing the water damage and help to eliminate the possibility of a mold colony getting started on your property. If your tenants complain of odors or signs of mold, respond immediately, and use professional help for mold remediation, should it become an issue.
The water in a sprinkler system is stagnant and non-potable and has absorbed oils and other contaminants within the piping, so cleanup actions will involve surface cleaning from stains, and elimination of odors, in addition to water damage restoration and moisture remediation measures. Where fabric and textiles are affected, prompt action must also be taken to avoid permanent staining and to preserve these articles.
The hard, non-porous surfaces in the condominium units, such as plastics, vinyl, ceramic tile, etc. will need to be done with a mild detergent followed by complete drying. Employ dehumidifiers for wet areas and during wetter seasons, as well, for comprehensive and complete drying.
The professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell will arrive equipped with specialized instrumentation to facilitate comprehensive project investigation, design and implementation, and will complete your damage recovery in a timely and excellent manner. We are experts in water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial restoration, and much more!  If your multi-family structure suffers a water damage please call the pros at 215.368.4110

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Storm Damage Prevention for Spring

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

In South Eastern PA, spring is very welcome. After all the gloomy, cold days and nights, it’s great to see the sun again. The surrounding fields are green, and flowers are everywhere! We are all anxious to get outside and have some fun.
Spring also brings with it some stormy weather, so you will want to be prepared for that. Damages to your home and other properties can make you forget the joy that this season brings with it, so let’s talk about some Spring storm damage prevention tips:
Landscaping. A thorough cleaning of your landscaping for your home or business is in order after harsh winter weather. Some plants and trees will have suffered, and some may not have made it at all. Removing dead branches and trees or other large vegetation will prevent damages in a storm from flying debris.
Drainage. Make sure your property enjoys proper drainage; often the ditch system will be full of leaves, branches, and other debris from the winter, and when water starts running, this can present a problem. Floods, even small ones, are very damaging to your property and can become dangerous very quickly.
Roofing. Have a thorough inspection done of your roofing. Loose shingles, cracks, or damage from excessive moisture made by melting snow or ice can weaken your roof’s ability to keep water out. Make these repairs right away; if you need a new roof, don’t put it off!
Doors and windows. Take a good look at all exterior doors and windows to make sure they are in good repair and fit properly. Are they well-sealed against the coming wet weather of Spring? Did they sustain damages from winter? If so, schedule repairs soon before spring storms come.
Gutters. Be sure to have your rain gutters cleaned out to prevent damages to your building through spilling water. When debris and dirt clog your gutters, the water simply has nowhere to go but into your walls when it backs up. Waterlogged walls are a great place for mold to start a colony, and that is certainly something you will want to prevent!
Here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell, we are always ready to help in the event you suffer from Spring storm damages. We handle all sizes of fire or water damage events, and we are experts when it comes to mold and its remediation and prevention.

Services You Might Not Know We Offer

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

In addition to clean up after fire damages or water damages, the SERVPRO team is also experienced in mold remediation and removal, but you probably already know that. We are well-known for our expertise in these areas and are proud of our service levels to our clientele. It’s an honor to serve you!  Today we would like to share a few of the other commercial services we offer that you might not know about so that you can always keep SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell in mind when the need arises:

BIOHAZARDS. Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. Failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. Our team is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with all health regulations. We are equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, and so can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices.

TRAUMA AND CRIME SCENE. After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Oftentimes, these events can be traumatic, and dealing with the cleanup can be difficult. Many times, crime and accident scenes have blood and other contaminants that pose a serious health risk. SERVPRO will respond immediately with the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience necessary to safely clean trauma and crime scenes. Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Our first focus is always safety, since crime or accident scenes may involve bloodborne pathogens, harmful chemicals, and other dangers. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

Crime Scene Residues
• From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, we can clean and restore your property after a crime scene investigation.
Bloodborne Pathogens
• We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Our trained Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

These are just a few of the additional services you might not know about that SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell offers.  Please call us at 215.368.4110 to schedule an inspection.

Storm damage can cause a moldy situation

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

Mold spores are all around us, so there’s the potential for mold to turn up anywhere on your property, at any time. The bad news is that you can’t truly remove black mold, but mold remediation is the next best thing. Never heard of it? Read on to understand what it means and how it can help your property get back on track.

What Is Mold?
Mold is best described as a type of fungus made up of small organisms. These organisms are found everywhere, thanks to the lightweight, airborne spores they use to reproduce. Believe it or not, mold is only a problem when it finds a moist area in building and starts to grow. Some of mold’s favorite spots in which to grow include:
• Attics

• Crawlspaces

• Damp basements

• Bathrooms

As mentioned before, because mold spores are so numerous and moveable, you’ll never truly get rid of all of them and their potential to replicate. But mold cleanup via remediation presents the next best thing.

What Is Mold Remediation?

Rather than trying to eradicate mold, remediation is centered on resetting mold levels to lower levels where it isn’t likely to reproduce. It’s important to understand that while the remediation concept sounds simple, it’s a multi-step process best left to experts. Those experts will:
• Inspect your property to assess black mold damage

• Take steps to contain the mold

• Filter your air

• Remove visible mold

• Clean walls, furniture, etc.

Remediators will also help you understand the source of moisture feeding the mold - a critical step in ensuring that your mold problems won’t be back anytime soon.

Many businesses have learned the hard way that black mold can be a big hassle. It can create musty, unpleasant odors at best and completely ravage your property at worst. While you can’t remove it, remediation is your best option. If your property suffers a water damage from a storm be sure to call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell to tryout the structure properly so that mold will not grow.

How to keep mold from Spreading in your commercial space

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

The mold cleanup process can vary depending on how much or how little mold has spread in a building. It can be valuable to understand ways you can stop the spread of mold in your commercial facility

1. Quick Identification

Mold spores can easily spread throughout a building and identifying a high number of spores in a timely manner is often important. A high number of spores often occurs as a result of water damage, and the sooner the cause of the growth is identified, the sooner cleanup can actually begin. If water is leaking or an area has been flooded, it can be helpful to turn off the water to your building in order to decrease the likelihood of mold spreading to other areas of your building.

2. Containment

Mold containment is a crucial step in the mold cleanup process that mold damage and remediation experts use to prevent mold from moving to other areas in a business. Containment methods involve isolating the areas that are affected by mold and taking various steps to stop the spores from leaving the contained area. In order to bring the number of spores down to an appropriate level, air filters are used. Since moving air makes it much easier for mold to spread, fans are also turned off along with heat and air conditioning.

3. Removing Items Affected by Mold Growth

After mold has been identified and contained, items that have been damaged are removed from the business. Though containment methods and air filters make it less likely that mold will spread, taking items that have been damaged by mold further reduces the likelihood of mold spreading. After damaged items have been removed from the business, professionals will determine whether items can be restored or if they should be replaced.

Knowing ways to keep mold from spreading can make the mold cleanup process cost-efficient and quick. Identifying mold in a timely manner, containing mold and removing items that are moldy can help to prevent mold from spreading throughout your property.  If your commercial property is suffering from a mold damage, please consider calling the professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell 215.368.4110

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The Difference Between Storm Watch and Storm Warning

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

The labels of "storm watch" and "storm warning" are used year-round and in different situations across the country. Knowing the difference between a watch and warning — and what actions you should take when they're issued — can help you and your family take appropriate precautions and stay safe.

National Weather Service alerts
The National Weather Service (NWS) keeps an eye on forecasts and climate data around the country. When it detects a potentially serious weather pattern, the NWS will notify local meteorologists in the area. Since you may not always be near a radio or television, you can stay up-to-date on weather changes by following your local news stations on social media, downloading the NWS app or signing up for text alerts from the NWS.
When you hear news that a storm watch or storm warning has been issued, keep in mind that the term being used describes both the immediacy and level of force of the storm.

What does "storm watch" mean?
A storm watch means that severe weather hasn't occurred yet, but upcoming weather conditions are expected to produce potentially dangerous weather, such as heavy rain, hail or strong gusts of wind. Because conditions can change quickly, the NWS wants to give you as much time as possible to safeguard your personal property and take shelter.
What does "storm warning" mean?
A storm warning indicates that meteorologists have already observed severe conditions. If you hear that a storm warning has been issued, it means potentially dangerous weather is imminent in or near your location. Depending on the type of weather warning, take appropriate action as quickly and safely as possible.
Types of storm watches and warnings
• Severe Thunderstorms. A thunderstorm watch, which can be in effect for several hours, means weather conditions exist where severe thunderstorms can easily develop. A thunderstorm warning means current storm conditions can turn worse, including heavy rain and strong winds. Whether a watch or a warning, it's best to stay inside and away from windows.
• Tornadoes. April, May and June are the most active months of the year for tornadoes to occur. A tornado watch means severe weather, such as large hail or winds over 58 mph, has the potential to turn into tornadic activity. A tornado warning indicates that either a strong weather rotation could produce a tornado at any moment or that a funnel cloud has already been spotted. In either situation, you should seek shelterimmediately and pay attention to local news updates.
• Flash Floods. A flash flood watch signals that even if there isn't any standing water in your immediate area, you should be ready for those conditions to change at any moment. Flash flood watches can turn to warnings quickly, meaning that flooding of nearby bodies of water is imminent or already happening. In either case, move to higher ground as safely as possible, and stay out of the flood's path — for instance, don't try to drive your vehicle through large areas of pooling water.
• Tropical Storms. The NWS tries to issue tropical storm watches as early as possible to allow enough time for emergency prep, including the possibility of evacuation. If you hear a warning, though, a tropical storm is expected within the next 36 hours, and you should take shelter immediately.
• Hurricanes. Whether there is a tropical storm expected to strengthen into a hurricane, or one that's already formed, a watch means a hurricane has the potential to impact your area. You should gather emergency supplies and be prepared to act quickly. Warnings are typically issued up to three days in advance — if one is issued, take direction from local authorities on whether to take shelter or to leave the area immediately.
• Winter Storm. A winter storm watch is usually issued at least 24 hours in advance of the storm. It lets you know that while hazardous weather conditions are likely, the exact areas and timing may not be known yet. If a watch is upgraded to a winter storm warning, try to avoid traveling, as visibility and road conditions can become unsafe.
No matter the type of watches or warnings that may come your way, it's important to properly prepare for storm conditions in advance. Also, be sure to review your policies with your insurance agent so you know what's covered in case of storm damage.

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Partnering With SERVPRO

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

Claims Service May Speed Up Settlements
An insurance agent or adjuster will need to access claim information to process and settle a claim. Necessary documentation ranges from an individual estimate and report of damage to data on similar claims and job costs. Learn more about three ways in which an electronic claims service may speed up an insurance claim settlement.

1. View Estimates As Soon As Possible

After SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell responds to a call with an on-site inspection and provides a verbal briefing, damage mitigation and restoration professionals will calculate an estimate. A one-stop shop such as SERVPRO can account for the costs of the complete job. Companies that only provide mitigation or restoration services will issue separate estimates, which may slow down claim settlement. SERVPRO will upload a comprehensive estimate to an internal system, and the documentation will be made available to insurance representatives on the Claims Information Center.

2. Access Claim Information and Updates at Any Time

Once an individual estimate is posted on an electronic claims service, insurance agents and adjusters can gain access to this information at any time. The availability of documentation necessary to process an insurance claim may reduce delays due to communication. Insurers can keep track of updates through the same service.

3. Search Comparison Data

An electronic claims service can also function as a research resource. Collected data about types of claims, causes of loss, job file costs and information enables an insurer to compare the performance of a franchise to other locations across the region or nationwide to make sure an estimate is reasonable.

An electronic claims service can help an insurance agent and adjuster process and settle insurance claims for damage at your property. Insurance companies and clients work with SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell, a company that maintains this type of service, to ensure that insurance representatives always have access to important information.

Smoke Damage in your Kitchen

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

The damages that fire can cause are, of course, significant and devastating. Smoke is a big issue as well, and very hard to get rid of. In the event of an oven or stove fire in your kitchen, you can be left with a mess that requires the help of professionals who know how to deal with the residue left behind, and that smell.

It’s not as easy as just opening a window and letting it all air out, unfortunately.  The acidity of smoke and soot can make them difficult to remove, and they contain particles that are harmful to breathe, so it is going to be essential to clean the smoke damage completely as soon as possible.
There are a few things that a client can do themselves to alleviate smoke damage using items found in most homes, such as rubbing alcohol, vinegar, degreaser, and hot water. You will need one item that isn’t normally in your closet, and that is a dry-cleaning sponge.

Open all windows, even if it’s cold outside - ventilation is essential. Use fans, if necessary, to get air moving, and turn off your HVAC system to prevent the spread of the smoke and soot and their harmful particles.

Make sure you wear protection for yourself, such as long pants and long sleeves. Gloves and eye protection are important, as well, since you will be freeing soot as you clean. Lay down floor protection and remove furniture that is not damaged. You may be able to cover items with plastic if the affected area is small, but if it’s the whole kitchen it will be wise to simply remove everything and seal off undamaged areas.   

This can become and overwhelming task, if that is the case, you may find it necessary to call a professional for help. Here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell, we have the expertise necessary to help you recover your kitchen from smoke damages

The Difference in Hardwood Floor Cleaners

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Hardwood floors are hailed for their natural beauty, but they require varying degrees of attention to maintain these good looks, depending on the finish. Floors with penetrating finishes (that soak into the wood) and wax top coats (which protect the finish) can be quite a chore to maintain because they easily absorb water and require solvent-based cleansers only—one reason many people opt for surface-sealed wood floors instead. These other hardwood floors all have polyurethane, urethane, or other finishes to form a protective waterproof barrier and protect from light scratches and dents, and their regular cleaning is much easier to get right because of the wider variety of cleansers that can be used

What Makes a Great Hardwood Floor Cleaner?
Factor in these features as you read labels of hardwood floor cleaners.

Gentle ingredients. Look for non-corrosive ingredients like water, weak acids such as citric acid or hydrogen peroxide, or weak bases such as sodium bicarbonate. Avoid products containing strong acids or bases, such as nitric acid or sodium hydroxide, which can strip the finish of surface-sealed floors. Also avoid hardwood floor cleaners containing oil, which can leave a sticky residue, or wax, which can dull the floor finish and leave it slippery.

Concentration. You’ll find hardwood floor cleaners in one of two formulations:

Complete hardwood floor cleaners can be applied to the floor straight out of the bottle because they contain all the necessary ingredients pre-mixed. They minimize overall time and effort, so great for everyday or last-minute cleaning jobs.  Floor cleaner concentrate products contain a potent cleaning fluid that must be diluted in water specified per product instructions before use. While they take more time to prepare, they let you adjust the potency (and pungency) by adding more or less water.

Convenient packaging. Hardwood floor cleaner is sold in three types of packaging:

Spray bottles feature a built-in trigger that dispenses a fine mist of cleaning solution onto the floor. You then either wipe down or mop the floor, which makes this packaging option good for spot cleaning or cleaning small areas.
Squirt bottles dispense a small pool of cleaner onto the floor, which can then be mopped. This option is versatile enough to use on small or large floor areas.

Refill bottles contain larger quantities, which you can pour into either a spray bottle or the fluid cartridge of a reusable spray mop. Avoid pouring cleaner from refill bottles directly onto the floor, because it’s easy to accidentally dispense more than intended—potentially causing floors to absorb the fluid and swell. This is the best option for larger cleaning jobs of one or more floors.

Please consider these recommendations when choosing a hardwood floor cleaner.  If you don't feel up for the task. SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell are here to help.

The SERVPRO Team

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

An insurance adjuster may be the loneliest and most important person in the property insurance industry. Responsibilities include:
• Guaranteeing company profitability by keeping costs low and minimizing waste

• Creating customer satisfaction with fast response and quality restoration

• Providing vendors with restoration specifications and answers to questions

• Facilitating the entire process with open communications and status updates

When disaster strikes, an insurance adjuster can expect an assignment to a team. The difference is that the numbers are bigger on a team. There are more customers, claims and vendors. Managing many claims on a team can quickly become an overwhelming task.

Insurance Adjusters Prefer Self-Reliant Vendors
It’s easy to imagine that insurance adjusters prefer some vendors over others. However, adjusters don’t choose. The customers do. There are several categories of vendors.

1. Vendors not on the preferred vendor list require the most attention. These vendors have never done work for the insurance company or haven’t done it very often. They may not understand the procedures and guidelines that they must follow. They need training and extra support.

2. Some vendors need more attention than others. The apparent need can happen in several ways. One is that even great vendors may need a bit of micromanaging. Another is that some vendors don’t understand how much self-reliance is acceptable.

3. Good vendors are invisible until they finish.They accept the information from the adjuster, ask questions up front and disappear. The next time the vendor communicates is when the job is complete.

4. The best vendors manage claims in-house.The SERVPRO team manages the insurance claim process using the Claims Information Center. It is the central warehouse for every bit of information that SERVPRO has on the claim. This information includes the original claim, estimates, photos and scanned paperwork. This information is available in print or by email.

The Team Is Ready To Help

The insurance adjuster expects you to select a vendor. When that time comes, know that the SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell remediation team is always ready to help. Please call us at 215.368.4110.

Being Prepared For When Your Business Floods

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

Whether flooding occurs without warning, as in a flash flood, or from a slow business during, or after, a heavy storm, it is a common occurrence in many parts of the country. Today we are highlighting some important steps to consider as a business owner if your location should experience flooding.
BE VIGILANT. Even if you think the risk of flooding will be low, it’s important to be vigilant. Understand your location’s potential exposure; you can reference the NOAA Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service’s quarterly updates and maps to see what areas are at higher flooding risk during certain times of the year. Historic flooding maps are also a helpful resource. Just knowing the potential rates of rising waters and how long it would take to drain off will be important pieces of information for you as a business owner.
INFORMATION. Be sure you keep copies of insurance documents and other key business information in a flood-safe location. Using the cloud for storage of business-related information will be essential when it comes to the potential loss of documentation.
BUILDING PREPARATION. Prepare your location for a flooding event. Investing in a sump pump could help to minimize damages, as well as maintaining gutters, drains, and roofing. Anchoring any fuel tanks is also a good step to take.
EMERGENCY PLAN. Create a flood evacuation route and share it will your workforce so that they know how to get themselves and any customers to higher and safer ground if it becomes necessary. Invest in an emergency kit and keep it well-stocked, in case people get stranded in the building.
Flooding is dangerous, and kills nearly 100 people yearly, in addition to causing an average of eight billion dollars in property damage in the U.S. yearly. Being prepared can keep your business and your workforce safe in the event of a flood.
When it comes to a flooding event, SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster and Blue Bell are here to help. We specialize in cleanup projects of all sizes, so call us for assistance if your business experiences any kind of disaster

Odor Removal After a Fire Damage

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

Since homeowners do not expect or predict when disaster might strike, there are often common functions of the house that can exasperate the spread of the damage from an incident like a fire. With conditioned or heated air being a staple to nearly every home in the area, circulating air throughout your home is something that happens almost continually. Whenever situations like fires take place, a running HVAC system can become adversely affected and become instrumental in spreading damages like soot and smoke residue to otherwise unaffected areas of your property.
One of the hardest obstacles to overcome after a disaster like this in your home is your need for fire odor control. Smoke damage can seep into materials, fabrics, furniture, and much more. We have many pieces of equipment that can help to eliminate these harsh odors permanently from your home, and we also have specialized areas and tools at our facility to deodorize contents of your home removed during the mitigation phase and pack-out process.
Our SERVPRO professionals work to respond immediately to your emergency with the necessary mitigation to help protect the contents, furniture, and affected items within your home. These often get taken to our nearby facility for focused cleaning and deodorization efforts. The most effective approach for many of these items is time in an ozone chamber. This special compartment of our facility adds air with added oxygen to neutralize odor molecules in the items we have placed inside. This practice, even in portable units, is not safe for use around pets and your family, however.
To remove noxious fire odors in open areas and permanent fixtures throughout your damaged property, our SERVPRO professionals can combine the use of hydroxyl generators and thermal foggers. If there are no people or pets present in the home, ozone generators can also be a practical solution for deodorization in your home.
Restoring your home after a fire requires addressing lingering odor concerns throughout the house. Our SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell fire restoration specialists have the tools and expertise to help. Give us a call anytime at 215.368.4110

Mildew vs. Mold

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

Mold and mildew are an unpleasant pair that no homeowner wants to encounter. While they seem to go hand in hand, they have some important differences. Understanding the differences is key to preventing mildew or mold damage and keeping your home pristine. Here are some ways to recognize the distinction between these two.

One reason people confuse mold and mildew is their many similarities. Some obvious and less obvious include:

• Both like warm, moist areas
• Both can create unpleasant smells
• Both are fungi

And of course, both are a fungus that no homeowner wants to see. That’s where the similarities end, however.

What is Mildew?

Mildew is best described as a surface fungus. It often appears as a patch of gray on a moist surface. Mildew growth is particularly common in bathrooms, where it favors shower curtains. Fortunately, surface mildew is easily treated with cleaner, a scrubbing brush and some elbow grease.

What is Mold?

Mold damage is like mildew in that it is a fungus and is commonly found in areas that are often wet, such as near pipe condensation. Mold comes in many colors, however, ranging from black to green. It’s also usually a sign of a much larger infestation than a spot of mildew is. Mold is also occasionally slimy, unlike mildew. Mold can be a lot harder to truly eradicate because it tends to have deep roots and isn’t removed with common household cleaner. Mold can destroy furniture and even walls, so it’s important to take evidence of the fungus seriously.

What To Do?

Whichever of these you see, it’s a good idea to act quickly to minimize mildew or mold damage. Removing the source of moisture and cleaning surface fungus is a good start. For a permanent change, talk to a mold remediation company to get rid of the mold growth you see and the leftover spores you don’t see.  

If you find yourself dealing with a Mildew or Mold issue in your home or business please call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell at 215.368.4110

Sources for Commercial Water Damages

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

Planning ahead can keep your commercial property safe from water damage. Just keeping an eye on the places where water can become an issue for your business will help you stay ahead of the game. Some of the top sources for commercial water damage can include:

• STORMS: Winter and Spring bring lots of water, either by steady rains, or ice and snow, and all that water can cause a lot of problems. Make an inspection around your place of business; are you prepared for wet weather? Take note of weather stripping and poorly fitting doors and windows and the drainage for your parking areas and entryways as well as all warehousing and manufacturing outbuildings.
• EQUIPMENT FAILURES. Unexpected events such as a burst pipe in your parking area or under a sink, or a broken or misdirected landscaping sprinkler can easily create problems by sending large amounts of water to the wrong places. In shops and warehouses, water damage can come about from broken pipes or equipment failures, such as pumps, etc.
• WATER MAINS. These kinds of situations come from circumstances that are out of your control, but you do want to keep them in mind. Make sure your parking areas and entryways can stay open in the event that your area streets are flooded due to a burst water main. You know you will have to wait for the city or county to come and correct the problem, and you want to stay in business.
• LEAKS. After wet weather, you may realize you have smaller water damage issues that you hadn’t noticed before. The roof of your office area, your warehouse, or your storage area needs to be properly cared for as well to protect your product, machinery, and office furniture from water damage through leaks and seepage.

If you have sustained water damages to your home or commercial property, the team here at SERVPRO Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is ready to help in any way we can. We have the expertise to handle water and fire damage and specialize in mold remediation

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Additional Items to Consider with a Fire / Smoke Loss

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are devastating and can cause major damage to your home or business, which can often require you to hire licensed professionals to make the repairs. The extent of the damage will all depend on the fire itself, how it started, and how long it burned, and how it was put out. A few determining factors when it comes to fire damage restoration cost will be:

• The number of affected rooms
• The amount of damage
• Repairs needed

You probably also know that water damages will be extensive, since this is what is often used in the fighting of the fire. Water can damage walls, floors and furniture, and if not handled quickly, the damage can get worse over time. In addition, mold can easily take hold in damp conditions.

There are a few additional costs of fire damage restoration that you might not know about, such as:

• Soot removal and cleanup. Soot can build up on curtains, walls, floors, and contents 
• Cleanup of burnt materials. All the materials that have been burned and are no longer usable or are obstructive will need to be removed by professionals.
• Smoke damages. Clothing, carpet, and draperies absorb smoke, and the strong odor left behind will only get worse over time. Cleanup must take place at the source, and only after soot and water damage are removed. Thermal Fogging, Ozone treatment, and air-filtration along with specialty textile restoration and electronics restoration are the most common methods.
• Air ducts. Vent and duct cleaning will prevent lingering odors from spreading.

In the event of a fire at your home or business, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Warminster, Lansdale, and Blue Bell for help with fire damage restoration, water damage restoration, mold remediation, and so much more. We are here to help.

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Storm Damage to your Property

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Dealing with repairs and insurance companies after severe weather hits your property can be difficult. Homeowners can use the following tips to help tackle the storm damage caused by hard rains, flooding, or storm-related issues.

SAFETY FIRST

 If you and your family were away from home when the storm hit, do not return until it has been confirmed safe. Contact a storm damage expert like SERVPRO of Lansdale; we’ll help you determine if your home is safe to return to.

INSURANCE

 You will need to contact your homeowners’ insurance adjuster as soon as possible. If your neighborhood has sustained widespread damage, find out if any special teams of insurance agents, relief workers, or contractors are coming to the area. Check your policy to find out what actions you need to take or talk to your agent to make sure you are following the proper procedures. Not following these actions correctly could result in a reduced claim. Inspect your property and make a list of all damages; take photographs of all noted damage if at all possible.

RECORDING AND DOCUMENTING

Document your neighbor’s damages, as well; this can prevent the insurance provider from downgrading your claim by saying the damage is from your neglect of maintenance or other unrelated issues by giving them a way to compare. Keep a record of all the communication you have with your insurance provider, and don’t do any unnecessary repair work yourself. Hire a trusted storm damage restoration service provider such as SERVPRO of Lansdale to handle any repairs.

 BE SCAM FREE

 Always check the adjuster’s identification. If you are evacuated, ask for money from your claim upfront. If they agree, you will be given a check for an amount that will be deducted from your final settlement. Some providers will automatically offer a partial payment early on during the process. Review it carefully and decline it if you feel uncomfortable with any part of it. Never be afraid to ask questions and to expect an answer that makes sense or seems fair.

Dealing with a storm's aftermath is stressful, but reacting properly will be an immense help and can prevent problems down the road.

The SERVPRO of Lansdale Team is ready to help 24/7. Call us for your fire or water damage issues at 215-368-4110.

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Fire Prevention in your Garage

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Fire Prevention Tips

The garage runs a close second to the kitchen when it comes to areas of the home that are a common source of fire damage. You store cars in the garage, and many people use this room for working on them, meaning there is gas or oil, or other flammable materials in this enclosed space. Add to this the clutter which goes with it and the fact that garages are storage spaces for flammable items, and you have the perfect place for fires to start.
 
As with anything else when it comes to fire damage in your garage, being proactive is the best defense to keep your home as safe as possible from fire. Fuels, fluids, and cleaners should be sealed properly, and flammable materials stored away from elements which are flammable as well.
 
If the worst has already happened and a fire broke out, you can call us at SERVPRO. We are a professionally trained fire damage remediation company, and we have the tools and knowledge to help you restore your home back to its original condition.
 
Electrical devices in a garage need to be used carefully. Do not overload the circuit box, and unplug any units when not in use. You should also have a fire extinguisher in your garage. Clear any clutter out of your garage, as it makes it safer when you are walking around, but also cuts down on the probability of a fire spreading in the event of an emergency.
 
Flammable liquids need to be stored in small amounts and away from heat sources of any kind such as space heaters, vents, and pilot lights. Also, keep propane tanks outdoors. They are equipped and made sturdy for outdoor storage.
 
After a fire, there are several forms of damage including smoke and soot, plus water damage from putting the fire out. SERVPRO technicians take care of all of it for you, restoring anything salvageable, cleaning up the smoke and soot, and drying out the area and your possessions.
 
Fires in garages can spread just as quickly, if not faster, than other areas of your home due to several flammable items. Give SERVPRO of Lansdale a call as soon as the fire is safely out so we can salvage all that is possible. You can reach us at any time you need by dialing 215.368.4110

Water Damage Prevention

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Rain, rain, go away. We all know the months are coming when we will start to think of these words to that childhood song. Rain is necessary to nourish flowers and trees, and that’s great! But sometimes all that water can cause damage to your home or business.

Is your business or home ready? Let’s talk about ways to prepare.

Take a look at rain gutters. Clogged gutters will cause rainwater to back up, damaging your roof and walls.
Do a roof inspection. Are any shingles loose or damaged? Replace any that could be an issue to protect attic or workspace from water damage.
Check interior walls and ceilings for signs of water damage; this could be an indication of roof leaks.
Trim any trees and bushes next to your Belle Meade business. Be sure to cut back branches that could become waterlogged and break off, damaging property.
Ensure that all doors and windows are secure, and that weatherstripping is in good condition.
Look for water collecting around the foundation of your home or business, and take steps to redirect it, if needed, to avoid water damage.
If your home or business is located near flooding areas, stockpiling sandbags to protect your property and parking areas would be a good idea.
Make sure the city drains near your home or business are clear of debris and earth.  Preparedness in the event of any kind of extreme weather is always a good idea, to protect your business and property from loss and damage. Taking the time to assess your situation and thinking ahead about what may come is a good way to keep your investment secure.

Call our team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, 215-368-4110 anytime, whether you need assistance with water damage, fire damage or mold prevention.

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DIY Spring Cleaning Tips

4/11/2018 (Permalink)

Spring has arrived – which means it’s time to get your home in tip-top shape. A good, deep spring clean-up is a tradition that not only promotes wellness by keeping your environment clean and organized; it also helps carry the fresh-start feeling brought on by a new year well into the summer.

We’ve compiled some of the best DIY spring cleaning tips so you can deep clean your house and make it sparkle all year round.

Spring cleaning tips

Remove water stains with lemon for a natural faucet fix

This spring, make faucets clean and sparkly by rubbing a lemon half on the water stains. The citric acid helps remove hard water marks. Then, use the other half of the lemon for our next tip.

Clean your microwave by heating lemon juice and rinds in water

Cut a lemon into halves, squeeze the juice into 1/2 cup of water and drop the rinds into the mixture. Microwave for three minutes and let it stand for five minutes without opening the door. The trapped steam will loosen the grime, so you can wipe the microwave clean with less elbow grease.

Use white vinegar to beat shower head buildup

Looking for more natural ways to clean your bathroom? Vinegar can dissolve the mineral deposits accumulate in showerheads over time, causing reduced pressure and water flow. Fill a plastic bag with white vinegar, secure it over the showerhead with a rubber band and leave it overnight to get rid of buildup. Just be sure to run the shower before you hop in, or you risk smelling like vinegar all day.

Clean stainless steel sinks with baking soda

Simply wet your sink and faucet, sprinkle baking soda, and scrub with a sponge. If you need more heavy-duty scrubbing power, add salt to the baking soda.

Organize your fridge and cabinets with rotating turntables

Don’t limit rotating turntables and Lazy Susans to your tabletops. After discarding old condiments and spices, organize your pantries and refrigerator with this useful storage hack.

Place a wet dryer sheet on your ceramic stovetop to remove burnt-on residue

Dryer sheets are non-abrasive and a great way to remove burnt-on food from your stove. Place the wet dryer sheet on your stovetop at least 15 minutes before rubbing the gunk away.

Clean your grill with an onion.

Get your grill cleaned up and ready for the warm weather. First, heat it up and spray some white vinegar onto the grates to help loosen the residue. Then, scrub the area firmly using half an onion. The acid from the onion will rid your grill of any leftover remnants.

SERVPRO of Lansdale is "Ready For Any Size Disaster" 215.368.4110

Mold Growth Prevention

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

We all know that a humidity level in your home that is too high can promote mold growth. Mold grows quickly in damp conditions, establishing a significant colony within 24-48 hours. Allergens and irritants are released as it spreads, and in some cases the situation can become toxic to those with respiratory problems. Children, older people, and pets can be especially susceptible to this danger.

Using a dehumidifier in your home can help to prevent this situation. Optimal humidity levels are between 30-50%, with 45% being the best level possible. A dehumidifier will help to maintain your indoor humidity at a comfortable level, which saves you money and helps to stunt or prevent any mold growth. Small units are available at reasonable prices, so you can put one in every room of the house that is devoted to water: the bath, laundry, and the kitchen!

Making sure your HVAC system is running at its most efficient will help to keep down your humidity levels, as well. Vents should be cleaned before the wetter months and replacing filters before every season is always a good idea.

Running fans when it’s humid outside helps to keep the damp down and cool you off at the same time. Circulating air keeps everything drier. If it’s more humid inside than out, crack a window.

Give your houseplants some outside time, as well; potting soil is wet, of course, since you must water your plants, so putting them out in the sunshine can be helpful. The leaves of a houseplant can also sustain mold growth, and you will want to keep an eye on that. There are natural solutions that can be applied to take care of this issue.

Call SERVPRO of Lansdale at (215) 368-4110 for all your larger cleanup projects after a fire or flood. We are also experts in mold remediation!

courtesy of LinkedIn

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/11/2017 (Permalink)

Soot damage to a bedroom wall.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Lansdale will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today - 215-368-4110

SERVPRO of Lansdale is an IICRC Firm

5/2/2017 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of Lansdale is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Lansdale

SERVPRO of Lansdale specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.

Storm Causes Fallen Tree in Hatfield

4/23/2017 (Permalink)

Fallen tree caused damage to the roof. A temporary tarp can help to prevent further interior damage to the home.

SERVPRO of Lansdale specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. This includes emergency tarp and board up services.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Hatfield, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 215-368-4110

Faster to your Lansdale Water Damage Event

4/13/2017 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was caused by a frozen pipe that burst.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Lansdale provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Lansdale arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 215-368-4110

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.


• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.


• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.


• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.


• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.


• Furniture begins to swell and crack.


• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.


• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.


• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.


• Metal begins to rust and corrode.


• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.


• Paint begins to blister.


• Wood flooring swells and warps.


• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.


• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Lansdale

SERVPRO of Lansdale specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. 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