Toilet Maintenance Can Prevent Water Damage

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia are always ready in the event that you find yourself with water damage due to an overflowing toilet that has flooded any area in your home. However, we know that you are better off to avoid this kind of headache altogether, and following a few tips for proper toilet maintenance can help you to do so.

Do

Clean your toilet regularly. A mild cleaner, such as baking soda, vinegar, or a mild soap will do the job without the risks of harsher chemicals. Cleaning the toilet gives you a more hygienic, better smelling bathroom, while also providing the opportunity to notice any leaks around the toilet.

Check the toilet’s interior mechanisms at least once each six months. Make sure that all parts are in good shape and working properly, that the flapper is sealing completely, and that the fill valve stops at the appropriate water level.

Fix a small leak (or running toilet) immediately. You might not even notice this type of leak if you aren’t looking for it, as it is silent and leaves no puddle. (The leaking water flows into the bowl and down the drain.) This type of leak can run gallons of water through your tank in a day causing a substantial increase in your water bill. To test for this type of leak, place a few drops of food coloring into the toilet tank (above the bowl). Wait half an hour, then check the water in the bowl. If any color shows up in the bowl, the tank is leaking. You can get a flapper kit from the hardware store and replace it yourself, if you are a do-it-yourselfer.

Teach every family member how to properly care for the toilet. Teach them what can be flushed and what cannot, how to avoid clogs by using just the right amount of toilet tissue and no more, and how to keep the toilet clean. Teach these things beginning when a child first starts using the “potty.”

Buy the right kind of toilet paper. Commercials tout the benefits of thick, soft, fluffy paper, but a paper that is built to break down quickly is much easier on your toilet system. This is especially true if you are on a septic system where everything that is flushed must be broken down. But even if you are on a municipal sewer system, using too much of the hard to break down paper can cause clogs in the lines inside your home.

Have a flange plunger handy. For simple clogs, a bucket of hot water and a plunger is often all you need. Just turn off the water at the emergency shutoff valve behind the toilet and use the plunger to dislodge the clog. If the plunger doesn’t work, try an auger.

Don’t

Do not use “drop-in” tablets in your toilet tank for cleaning. These products can cause damage to the rubber flap and other mechanisms, resulting in a leak.

Do not use chemical drain cleaners on a clogged toilet. They can damage fixtures and pipes, kill off the good bacteria in septic systems causing problems in the functioning of the system, are harmful if they come into contact with skin or are inhaled, and are just not something you want to add to your water system.

Do not place a brick in the tank to save water. Newer toilet tanks use 1.6 gallons with each flush. This is the amount that is needed to move waste out of the toilet and through the system. If you have an older tank, consider replacing it. Many new models have two flushing handles, one for liquid waste only and one for solid waste. This type of toilet uses the minimal amount of water needed, while still efficiently moving waste through.

Do not flush anything but human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Nothing else is designed to break down and safely flow through the system — NOTHING.

If you experience water damage at your home due to a toilet issue, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378. 

What Will Insurance Cover After a Water Damage?

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage is a common insurance claim among homeowners. If you are about to make a claim on water damage to your home it’s good to know what to expect. However, it is important to note that coverage could be different depending on the situation, insurance carrier, type of coverage, and other factors. There are some items that homeowners generally have an easier time making water damage claims for than others. A few of those common items are listed below.

Problem Areas

There are some losses that homeowners typically run into problems when trying to make a water damage claim to their insurance company. These include losses that resulted from gradual damage. 

What Is Gradual Damage

Gradual damage is anything that happened over the course of a prolonged period, as opposed to an accident, or sudden damage, which happens as the result of one single event.

Will My Insurance Cover My Gradual Damage?

Loss such as leaky ceilings due to plumbing defects, water damage caused by cracks in the foundation, and in some cases, mold, fall under the category of gradual damage. These things are generally not covered by insurance. However, there may be some exceptions. For example, if mold was the result of another claim that was covered under insurance, but was not properly fixed, the insurance company would likely cover it.

Will My Insurance Cover My Water Loss?

On the other hand, if the water damage is sudden and accidental you’ll probably have a much easier time getting covered for the damages. This is the true nature of insurance – to cover accidents. Of course, everything is dependent upon the language of the policy that you purchased, but this is the very nature of insurance: coverage for sudden and accidental loss. A good practice for homeowners is to keep a record of all repairs and transactions for services that are made to your home.

About SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we are not only experts at restoring your home as if it never even happened, but we are also experts at dealing with insurance companies. For a stress-free claims process, SERVPRO can help manage the insurance paperwork and process. Contact us today at (334) 371-7378 to learn more about how we can help you through the entire recovery process today!

Mitigate Storm Damage to Your Property

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

The best way to prevent storm damage is to prepare before the winds and rain hit. Prevent damages, such as missing shingles, a roof leak, broken furnishings, and other havoc by taking specific steps as soon as you know there's a storm on the way:

• Trim trees and shrubs around your business to prevent branches from breaking winds or becoming projectiles.
• Pack up furnishings outside your building and stash any decorations or marketing signs that aren't completely attached.
• Board up the windows. Again, the best time to gather these supplies is before there's any news of a storm. Purchase the hardware you'll need and store it safely until you need to use it.
• Reinforce any garage doors. These doors tend to be relatively flimsy. The damage to the doors or to your exposed inventory or vehicles could become very expensive.
  
  

Of course, proper maintenance is an essential step in protecting your company property.

Gather Evidence of the Damages

Before you take any cleanup steps and before you contact professionals to take care of the work, record the damage. First, take photos of all damage to document your losses for the insurance company. Make a written inventory of all commercial and personal property that was damaged. Don't forget to hold onto receipts when work is completed.

Practice Preventative First Aid

After the storm has passed, there are several steps you can take to keep your commercial property safe, avoid that annoying roof leak, and keep your repair costs down. One of the first is to address any damage to the roof. Use tarps and plywood to board up holes in the roof, cover holes in windows and skylights, and inspect the rest of the property.

Turn Major Repairs Over to Professionals

You may find that siding has been blown off the building or a tree branch has broken the building or some property directly. In many cases, a storm damage repair and cleanup professional is the best person to repair your damaged roof. There are many safety concerns to keep in mind before sending an employee to the top of your building. There's no roof leak more important than a person's safety.

SERVPRO Can Handle Many Types of Storm Damage

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

We can experience several kinds of storm damage. Some are wind damage, flood damage, and hail damage. Consider the following tips should your home or business be hit with storm damage.

Wind Damage Restoration

The high winds of the desert often cause severe wind damage, placing your roof at risk. Your roof is particularly susceptible. The strong winds may cause flying debris to hit or lift the roof. Roof damage can be challenging for homeowners and business owners, mainly because a roof leak may not be evident until the next storm hits.

Roof Leaks

Many roof leaks and roof damages are difficult to detect. Storms can loosen the roof without creating a problem that is not easily visible. Even small roof leaks can produce damp, moldy conditions inside your home or business. It is critical to secure roof inspection and repair immediately after high winds. Doing so can prevent long term interior damage. The professional technicians at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can assist homeowners or business owners in receiving a comprehensive roof assessment and roof repair services when wind damage strikes.

Flood Damage

Heavy rains and flooding may cause water damage from many miles away. If the land around your home or business cannot absorb the additional water, flooding will happen. Even houses and shops at higher elevations can sustain flood damage.

Hail Damage & Recovery

Hail can damage not just your roof, exterior walls, and any detached buildings. It is a great idea to hire a storm damage restoration professional to inspect your roof, exterior walls, and outbuildings for damage. Dents, nicks, and cracks on the roof are areas where hail has damaged the exterior of your home. These weakened areas can lead to other more extensive problems like water damage

After a storm, if you are not sure if there is damage to your home or business, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia. We will access your property for any damage that could put your property at risk.

Give us a call at (334) 371-7378!

Preparing for Emergencies

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

In recent years, many forms of disasters have affected the United States. Flooding, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, and blizzards are natural disasters that can threaten your home, business, and community.

If you've seen the news, you know that emergencies can happen unexpectedly in communities just like yours, to people like you. We've seen tornado outbreaks, river floods, flash floods, historic earthquakes, tsunamis, and even water main breaks and power outages in U.S. cities affecting millions of people for days at a time.

Here are three steps to help you prepare and plan in the event that you must go for three days without electricity, water service, access to a supermarket, or local services:

1. Get a Kit: Keep enough emergency supplies on hand for you and those in your care - water, non-perishable food, first aid, prescriptions, flashlight, battery-powered radio - for a checklist of supplies, visit www.ready.gov
2. Make a Plan: Discuss, agree on, and document an emergency plan with those in your care. For sample plans, see www.ready.gov- Work together with neighbors, colleagues, and others to help build community resilience.
3. Be Informed: Free information is available to assist you from federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial resources. You can find preparedness information by:

- Accessing www.ready.gov to learn what to do before, during, and after an emergency.

- Contacting your local emergency management agency to get essential information on specific hazards to your area, local plans for shelter and evacuation, ways to get information before and during an emergency, and how to sign up for emergency alerts if they are available.

- Contact your local firehouse and ask for a tour and information about preparedness.

Police, fire, and rescue may not always be able to reach you quickly, such as if trees and power lines are down, or if they're overwhelmed by demand from an emergency. The most important step you can take in helping your local responders is being able to take care of yourself and those in your care; the more people who are prepared, the quicker the community will recover.

As FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate reminded us, "Individuals and families are the most important members of the nation's emergency management team. Being prepared can save precious time if there is a need to respond to an emergency." For more information on NPM, and for help getting prepared, visit www.ready.gov, or call 1-800-BE-READY, 1-888-SE-LISTO, and TTY 1-800-462-7585 for free information.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia wants you to be aware of the steps to take to help prepare for a natural disaster. For more information on disaster preparedness, visit www.ready.gov, or call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia; our professionals can help your business prepare for the unexpected by offering an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). The profile is designed to be a quick and easy snapshot of your business, providing critical facility information needed for detailed emergency preparation. For a customized Emergency READY Plan, contact us at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378.

What You Should Know After Storm Damage Affects Your Home

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

Though storms are common occurrences, storms that involve high wind levels and flooding can devastate homes. Many people don't know what will happen after their homes sustain storm damage. However, understanding cleanup methods and restoration methods, such as a tear out, can be useful to homeowners.

What Are the First Steps After Storm Damage Occurs?

After the storm has ended, there are several important steps that occur to begin the cleanup and storm restoration processes. After a storm has affected your home, the initial steps can involve:

• An assessment performed by storm damage restoration experts
• The documentation of damage, which can be provided to your insurance company
• A visit from an insurance adjuster
• Water removal with specialized vacuums, pumps and other equipment
  
  
  

How Is the Home Restored?

There are various restoration methods that are used after a storm. After water has been removed from the home, professionals will work to mitigate the damage by quickly drying the home, often using powerful dehumidifiers and other pieces of equipment. A tear out, the process of removing damaged building materials, can also be useful. After wet building materials have been removed, the home is sanitized. Finally, damaged materials are replaced.

What Happens to Damaged Items?

Many homeowners are concerned about what will happen to their damaged items after a storm. To mitigate the damage to these items, damaged belongings are usually removed from the home after a storm. Clothes, rugs and other items made of cloth can often be cleaned and restored if mold growth is not present, whereas electronics can be difficult to restore. Ultimately, whether or not an item can be restored depends on the extent of the damage and the fragility of the item itself, and items that can't be restored are replaced.

It's often useful for homeowners to know what happens after a storm affects their home. Learning what first happens after storm and water damage has occurred, knowing the methods and techniques, such as a tear out, that are used to restore homes and understanding what happens to damaged items can bring homeowners peace of mind after a storm.

If your home has suffered damage due to storms, call the restoration experts at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378!

Preventing Frozen Pipes

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

Winter Storm Preparedness: Prevent Frozen Water Pipes

Winter storms are here and it won't be the last.

The National Severe Storms Laboratory categories a winter storm as having snow, sleet, or freezing rain. We can see any of this type of precipitation throughout the winter months. When the temperature is below the freezing point and precipitation is in the forecast, that’s when our office knows what types of calls we’ll be getting: water damages.

How Water Pipes Freeze and Break

Water damage during a winter storm happens when your pipes freeze.  When water freezes, it expands and creates pressure inside the pipe, which can cause it to break.  The pipes that are most likely to freeze are those outside the home that are exposed.  Other vulnerable pipes are those indoors that don’t have access to heat, like those under your kitchen cabinets or in the garage.

Indoor Frozen Pipe Prevention

• Before temperatures reach freezing, insulate exposed and vulnerable pipes.  You can do this by installing pipe sleeves or even wrapping the pipes with newspaper.
• Close the garage door to prevent cold air from coming in.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
• Keep your home heated above 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

What To Do Until Help Arrives

If your pipes still freeze and you have water damage, give us a call immediately and follow the following steps:

1. Don’t delay.  Call us as soon as you notice your water damage.  The longer water stands in a structure, the more damage it will cause.  As soon as you call, we will schedule a crew of technicians to travel to your home and begin remediation.  
2. Cut off the water source, if possible.
3. Get textiles off the floor.  Many homeowners rush to put down towels to stop the water flow, and that’s okay.  Towels can easily be cleaned at our textile cleaning facility if need be.  What you want to look out for are small fragile textiles or objects on the floor that can be damaged by water.
4. Begin documentation.  Start with the point of origin and all affected areas.  While our technicians will also take the document, it's important to start documenting as soon as possible to prove your loss to your insurance company.

Be Aware of the Weather

Keep your eye on the weather forecast.  Not only will you be prepared to travel safely, it’ll also give you valuable time to prepare your home and keep it, and everyone living inside it, safe.  

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378!

SERVPRO Saves Homes After Storm Damage

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

We Can Reduce Flood Damage in Your Home

You were not expecting your home to flood from last night’s thunderstorm, but it did, and water is now standing in your basement. Flood waters contain contaminants like chemicals, raw sewage, and dead animals, which is why you should never hesitate to call in the professionals. Our techs set goals to make your home clean and safe after storm waters enter your house. Whenever it is possible, our crews can restore your home to its pre-storm condition. Plus, they strive to preserve many of the contents inside your home.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia flood damage teams are highly trained and come ready to get to work when they arrive. The first step the team takes on is stopping the flow of water from entering your basement. Hopefully, that has already occurred. Next, they start extracting the water with various pieces of equipment such as a truck-mounted or portable extractor, wands and pumps that can remove water from the structure fast. The type of machinery we employ depends on the amount of water inside affected areas.

Many flooding situations may require the need for our teams to remove items from the house. When we do remove contents, our technicians keep an inventory of every item during the pack-out stage. Typically, clothing, furniture, and paper documents are sitting in several inches of contaminated water. Our crew can remove and clean all salvageable items with industrial cleaning products. Plus, they can use EPA-registered antimicrobial sprays to sanitize your items before bringing them back inside your home. Ultrasonic cleaning can also restore possessions that our customers believed were lost.

Drying the area is also an essential process during restoration. Our team can use air scrubbers to clean the air. Plus, they can utilize air movers and axial fans to enhance drying. In all cases, we use dehumidifiers to absorb water vapor. Heaters may also be put in place to target specific areas.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia flood damage restoration services are fast and can help. We are available 24/7 to assist you in your time of need. If a flood ever occurs in your home, call us at (334) 371-7378 right away.

Why You Should Hire Professionals to Clean Your Home After a Fire

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Hidden damage and strong odors left behind by a house fire

Even after a small grease fire in your kitchen, you are going to wind up with plenty of damage afterward. You also must deal with a heavy smoky odor throughout your home, black soot on your ceiling and cabinets, burnt grease, and even melted appliances.

Many people attempt to clean up after a small fire in their home themselves. However, it is best to leave the inspection and cleanup of the fire damage to the expertise of our technicians at SERVPRO. We are trained and certified to deal with situations like this and have the proper tools as well to restore your home back to its proper state thoroughly.

Kitchen fires produce a mixture of residues which must be cleaned properly. A big challenge of kitchen fires is you will most likely have more than one kind of material which burns and leaves residues. It is not an easy task for the average homeowner to understand how to clean these residues. The different kinds include natural substances such as wood, paper, or natural fabrics, protein substances like grease and burnt food, plus synthetic substances like plastics. It is best that each kind of substance is cleaned with the right method unique to that substance.

Smoke smells are tough to combat. You can keep cleaning, but the smell of smoke can linger still. Smoke particles are tiny, and each of them has an odor. These microscopic particles make their way inside your walls through air ducts, behind the wood trim, into cabinets, under carpeting, and more. Even if you are the best cleaner in the world, there are such a vast number of places you could miss, and it can take weeks for the smell to dissipate.

The fire could have also done more damage than you realize. If flames shot up an air duct, for instance, you may not know about some of the damage done. When you allow SERVPRO staff to inspect your home, we can find all the hidden damage so that your home is completely cleaned and restored, giving you a peace of mind.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has the proper training to handle fire damage of all kinds. Call us at 334-371-7378!

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

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 recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

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.

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia.

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

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

- Test smoke alarms at least once a month using 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.

JUST THE FACTS: Smoke Alarms

- Three out of five fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or when the alarms are not working.

- Smoke alarm failures usually result from missing, disconnected, or dead batteries.

- More than one-third (37 percent) of home fire deaths result from fires in which no smoke alarms are present.

- The risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half in homes with working smoke alarms.

*Statistics and tips provided by National Fire Protection Association

Electrical Fires Can Cause Extensive Damage

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Offers Electrical Fire Damage Restoration Services

Statistics from the U.S. Fire Administration indicate that electrical fires account for about 7 percent of all residential fires in the country. This figure becomes much more significant when scaled down to a specific location. In most cases, the fire occurs from increased use of lights and heating appliances and usually starts in the bedroom. However, the highest number of fatalities (i.e., injuries and even deaths) come from fires happening in the family room, living room, and den.

When it comes to electrical fires, you cannot afford to be tolerant. You need to contact a locally based fire damage restoration company, such as SERVPRO, to start the mitigation process as fast as possible. Some electrical fires happen due to appliance failure or problems in house wiring, but many are a result of simple mistakes such as overloading extension cords or electrical outlets. Whatever the case, our IICRC-certified technicians have the tools and expertise to reverse the damage as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Research on fire damage events has shown that faulty wiring is the leading cause of electrical fires in most homes. If your house is at least two decades old, it is highly likely to have faulty wiring behind the walls. Rodents such as rats, mice, and squirrels can find their way into these spaces and chew on electrical cords, increasing the risk of a fire disaster.

At SERVPRO, we also deal with many instances of electrical fire damage resulting from shoddy installation. Home building trades are flooding with professionals who cut corners to save time or money, including electricians. On the other hand, overloading an older electrical system with modern electrical devices can prove to be too overwhelming, leading to damages on your wiring, appliances, and even the breaker box.

Holiday seasons are associated with the most house fires resulting from misusing extension cords. Generally, an extension cord should only serve as a temporary solution, especially when it comes to plugging several things in at once. Apart from overloading extension cords, using a frayed power cord can also lead to serious fire damage. Indeed, electricity can escape through the holes in the cord and set the surrounding materials ablaze.

In the event of an electrical fire, make sure that everyone is safe and then contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia as quickly as possible to deal with the fire damage. Electrical fires come with many hidden safety hazards, so it is important to allow trained restoration experts to come in and assess the extent of the damage. For any assistance, you can reach us 24/7, every day of the week at (334) 371-7378. 

Avoid Fire Hazards in the Kitchen

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Who knew that the kitchen would become that wonderfully versatile place where family and friends gather to spend quality time while delicious meals are being cooked up? Unfortunately, however, the kitchen is also a space where many home fires occur.

Fires caused by cooking are listed as the No. 1 contributor of home fires and injuries. And the leading cause of these kitchen fires is unattended cooking.

In 2017, State Farm paid out over $130 million in homeowners insurance claims related to grease and other cooking fires. According to the insurance company, these are the worst states for kitchen fires:

• North Carolina
• Texas
• Pennsylvania
• California
• Ohio
• Illinois
• Maryland
• New York
• Alabama
• Georgia

Important Kitchen Safety Tips

Staying in the kitchen to supervise your cooking is not the only fire safety tip you should be following. Here are some other helpful tips to observe while cooking:

1. Clothing is flammable! Does your outfit have long, flowing sleeves or is it big and baggy? It could catch on fire if you aren’t careful while cooking over the stove. It’s best to wear short or close-fitted sleeve shirts and make sure any baggy shirts are tucked in or tied back.
2. Be observant as to what you have around the stovetop. Make sure you don’t have kitchen towels, oven mitts, appliance cords or even curtains too close to the stovetop when cooking. Ideally, anything that is flammable needs to be kept a safe distance from it.
3. Have a fire extinguisher available in/near the kitchen. It is important that you have at least one fire extinguisher available in your home and, ideally, one that is near your kitchen. Make sure you know how to properly use the extinguisher, just in case it is ever needed.
4. Hot grease in the garbage can be dangerous. While the grease may not actually be on fire, it might be hot enough to cause something in the trash to burn. You should let the grease cool a bit and then dispose of it in an old coffee can. Also, know the smoke points of the oils you cook with. Be sure to never subject a low-smoke point oil to high heat when cooking, as it could catch fire.
5. Make an emergency escape plan and practice it! It’s never fun when it comes to thinking about the worst that could happen, but it’s better to be prepared than to be caught by surprise if an emergency were to occur. Go over exit routes and designated meeting points with your family, making sure that everyone knows what to do.

Fire safety in the kitchen is an absolute necessity, as it can help prevent dangerous and destructive cooking fires. If your home has experienced damage from a cooking fire, know that SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

What is Water Damage Restoration?

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, our goal is to restore instead of replace whenever possible. Following are the steps we undertake in order to restore your property after a water damage incident.

Water damage restoration entails:

• It is putting someone’s home or business back together after a water damage incident. 
• It is the extra things, like re-laying the carpet, repairing the subfloors, and re-setting the contents. 
• It is restoring items to a preloss (normal) condition, whenever possible. 

Once the structure and contents are dry, our technicians can perform the restoration services. Restoration services are all of the tasks needed to return the site to its normal, preloss condition. During restoration:

• All repairs to structure and contents are completed. 
• Final cleaning is performed. 
• Final inspections are made. 
• All equipment is removed from the job site. 
• All of the customer’s contents are put back in place. 

Restoration may include:

• Cleaning, repairing, or reinstalling floors and floor coverings, such as carpets, carpet pads, hardwood floors, resilient, and non-resilient floors. 
• Removing and resetting contents to install or repair floor coverings. 
• Installing tack strips. 
• Seaming carpet. 
• Repairing or replacing subfloors. 
• Cleaning, replacing, or refinishing structural materials, including walls, plates behind baseboards, ceilings, insulation, framing, and vapor barriers. 
• Cleaning or repairing items in non living areas, including basements, crawl spaces, attics, and storage areas. 
• Cleaning, repairing, or replacing ductwork or other portions of the HVAC system. 
• Inspecting, cleaning, or replacing components of the electrical system, including outlets, switches, light fixtures, and ceiling fans. 
• Cleaning, deodorizing, or replacing window coverings, including blinds and draperies. 
• Cleaning and deodorizing contents. 

If you are in need of water restoration at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378!

Choose SERVPRO for Mold Remediation

6/19/2021 (Permalink)

For most homeowners, mold is not even on the list of dangers to their residences. Fire and especially flooding are what occupies most people’s concerns over their home and checkbook. What many forget is that mold can grow unnoticed for years to become just as expansive and expensive a threat.

So why use SERVPRO for cleaning and removing mold damage to your home? Our restoration teams train to the latest industry standards for cleaning and remediation. Our office maintains an extensive inventory of cleaners and equipment for a rapid response. If we do need additional, specialized tools, our access to a national support network ensures we can get everything we need in usually only a day.

The first step our technicians take is to isolate the mold infested areas from the rest of your home. They turn off the HVAC system and, if the ducts are clear of mold, cover the vents with plastic to prevent contaminating them while cleaning. As they do this, other team members seal off the affected area with heavy, plastic sheets and set up a combination of air movers and fans to create negative air pressure and direct loose spores out of your home.

Now, our restoration team removes mold from surfaces in the affected area. The type of surface determines what tools we use. If a surface is metal, glass or plastic, it is non-porous, which means the mold rarely penetrates the surface. Our technicians can wipe these surfaces free of the mold using clothes or sponges. For thicker layers, they may need to use water or a mild cleaning agent to break them up for removal.

For items like carpets, wood, or building materials like drywall, mold often grows or settles into the surface. These are porous surfaces and are harder to clean. SERVPRO technicians have to use stronger cleaning agents and a brush to agitate the mold to draw it out. In many cases, especially with drywall, we recommend disposal since it is cheaper to replace the items than expend the labor hours to restore them.

Afterward, we wait for any spores disturbed by our efforts to settle on surfaces. Our teams use vacuums with special, HEPA filters designed to draw out even a single mold spore from a table or chair. They finish by wiping down the surfaces and then repeat these last actions until the air mold content tests at a safe level.

SERVPRO Can Handle Biohazard Cleanup

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

Blood, bodily fluids, and other biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. When a site in your home or business has been contaminated, how do you make it safe again? Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO for top-notch biohazard cleanup and restoration services.

Avoiding Health Risks 

Is it necessary to seek professional assistance in cleaning up a location impacted by crime, trauma or death? With the risks posed by blood-borne pathogens and dangerous communicable diseases, cleaning a scene contaminated with biohazards like blood is a perilous undertaking for anyone who lacks the proper training and equipment. It is unpleasant to think about, but blood and bodily fluids are prone to splattering so that minute amounts can affect a wide area. The air at these scenes can be hazardous since small particles can become airborne if dried material is disturbed. Anything removed from the scene must also be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the contamination. Besides, you cannot assume the area is safe again just because the visible traces have been removed. If a space contaminated with blood or other biohazards is not appropriately cleaned, sanitized and restored, these unseen hazards can linger, posing a threat to anyone who enters it. Ultimately, the best way to make sure that a place is once again safe is to use a professional organization like SERVPRO that is experienced in biohazard restoration.

Preventing Legal Repercussions 

As if the health risks created by biohazards are not dire enough, failure to have a contaminated space properly cleaned can also have serious legal consequences. The responsibility for cleaning up after a crime, trauma or death falls on the property owner, and there are regulations and laws regarding how biohazards are handled that must be followed. These rules are designed to safeguard everyone, and ignorance is not considered an acceptable excuse for disregarding them. Individuals and businesses that do not follow these rules may find themselves facing hefty fines. They might even be held liable if someone else is injured by their actions. Using a professional team that understands what is required to comply with the various rules and regulations governing biohazards in your area can shield you from both health risks and legal issues.

Focusing on Your Safety At SERVPRO, we are committed to the well-being of our customers. Offering emergency services 24 hours a day, we will rapidly respond whenever you request our assistance. Our technicians follow the protocols established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so you can be confident that they have the expertise and training to remove all biohazards and dispose of them properly. We use specialized equipment that allows us to detect the presence of even a minute trace of a biohazard, and we do not stop until your scene is thoroughly sanitized. As biohazard restoration professionals, we can often salvage items that others might have to discard, and we ensure that any material that does need to be removed from your location is disposed of appropriately. Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, we are ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind.

Training is the Key at SERVPRO

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Training is vital in our industry. Things are constantly changing. Our team needs to stay up on the newest technology as well as the newest information and requirements from insurance companies. 

We trained on the use of our proprietary software program that we utilize in the field to collect and record data in regards to clients losses. This information forms the story of the loss for insurance companies and the client for documentation. It is vital to record the information in regards to affected materials and the process of restoring the affected materials. 

Our team has weekly Monday production meetings to go over any thing of importance but we also do more in depth trainings like these as needed to keep us up to date on information and well informed to make sure we are always ready to help our clients with the most up to date information.

Water Migration Detection is Why SERVPRO Delivers Success

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

When a homeowner tries to determine the extent of a water loss, both instincts and common sense can fall short. When water gets loose inside your home, it can migrate far from the original plumbing break, roof leak, or appliance breakdown. Without the tools to detect the path the water followed, significant damage can go unnoticed. Our investments in education and innovative moisture identification tools help avoid additional expense and secondary damage, why we offer our help. 

Water Detection is a Science and an Art

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) courses our managers and production technicians master covers the expected and unexpected behavior of water damage inside a bungalow. The lathe and plaster and stucco construction of signature Arts and Crafts structures are both charming and capable of hiding water damage when it is minor and manageable. Our training and experience in tracing water meanderings behind walls and built-in fixtures explains why we are skilled in finding and solving water problems before the integrity of your historic home is compromised.

Aging Heating and Plumbing Plus Temperature Extremes Equal Water Damage Challenges

When your dining room oak floor develops cupping and crowning the search for a water source can be daunting. Bungalows often retain their 100-year-old gravity heating, with old radiators filled with hot water from the boiler in the basement warming spaces. Rusted pipes and failing valves can slowly saturate the floor, unnoticed at first as the issue begins and then spreads from behind the radiator at the wall. Mold development on a main level wall or ceiling can trace to ice dam development the previous winter, moisture seeping in the attic from clogged gutters eventually traveling downwards. Our familiarity with this type of insidious damage is why SERVPRO can respond quickly and reliably to your water damage challenges.

Sensitive Moisture Meters and Infrared Cameras

The availability of and skill in using water detection tools are why SERVPRO crews can outline water damage with accuracy and confidence. Infrared technology indicates the presence of water through temperature variations. Moisture meters establish relative levels of absorbed water in building materials. Periodic use of these tools throughout a water damage remediation project ensures we find and release liquids. Then our Applied Structural Drying (ASD)-certified technicians create an effective drying plan using the data, moving water out of structural components with temperature adjustments and air movement. Dehumidifiers capture the vaporized water for disposal. Moisture measurements continue until we reach designated levels, avoiding over or under drying.

Training and innovative equipment are two reasons why SERVPRO efficiently mitigates and remediates hidden water damage.

SERVPRO's Trained Restoration Specialists

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

We have always put a high priority into educating our team. That need is more important than ever today. SERVPRO is an IICRC certified firm with certified technicians. That means you can expect the very highest in standards and protocol to be used in your home or business.

IICRC Training and Certification

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
• Advanced Structural Drying

SERVPRO Document Restoration Services

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Document Restoration Services

After any major disaster, restoring your business and mitigating losses is essential for returning your company to an operational state in a timely manner. In addition to clean-up and repairs, you should add document restoration to your list of recovery action items. Using a professional restoration service can help you protect and save many of your important documents, including:

• Books, journals and magazines
• Patient records and employee files
• Blueprints and maps
• Photographs, film and negatives

Professional document restoration services can save your business because they follow through procedures for preserving and protecting critical paperwork that is often irreplaceable. Insurance companies trust SERVPRO because of the following state-of-the-art offerings.

1. Modern Technology

SERVPRO uses vacuum freeze-drying, a document drying technique that has been approved by the National Archives and Records Administration. They also use gamma irradiation technology to clean and sterilize items. This is particularly useful if your documents have been exposed to chemicals or bacteria during the incident.

2. Security

Documents are handled by HIPAA-certified technicians, ensuring compliance with privacy requirements. Your documents are also kept under 24/7 surveillance.

3. Digital Organization

Converting your files to digital files is a wise choice for protecting them against future incidents. In the event of a fire or flood, your contracts, files and paper materials will stay safely stored and out of harm’s way. Digital files are much easier to organize and access using a computerized inventory system, and they can free up storage space that used to house paper files.

In addition to the services above, a full-service restoration option is available to handle every step of the restoration, from drying and sanitizing to rejacketing and digitizing. This full-service option can save you time and money since the document drying is performed by SERVPRO and is not outsourced to a third party.

After disaster strikes, it is normal to feel overwhelmed about the cleanup process. However, being prepared and having a reliable document restoration service you can trust will save you time and ensure your business is protected.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Damage

6/13/2021 (Permalink)

• How long will the fire restoration process take?
  Because there are many variables and many services involved in fire and smoke restoration, it is difficult to predict exactly how long the complete restoration will take. Consult with your SERVPRO Technician on the estimated dates and phases of your restoration project.
• Can I clean the fire damage myself?
  We suggest that you do not attempt any “do-it-yourself” cleaning methods without consulting your SERVPRO Technician. Professional cleaning systems and products used by experienced, trained SERVPRO Technicians give you the best chance for complete restoration of your belongings. Pre-testing, using the right cleaning agent for the particular item, mixing deodorizing agents with cleaning solutions, and using correct dilution rates are just some of the ways a fire restoration technician expertly controls the results.
• What are some safety concerns?
  At SERVPRO, occupant and worker safety is a top priority. During the initial inspection, safety hazards are identified and addressed, including debris removal, air quality, electrical hazards, slip and trip hazards, etc. Burnt electrical cords and appliances are separate out for disposal, and questionable electrical appliances are unplugged and tagged for evaluation of the safe operation. Electrical power may be turned off and kept off until evaluation by a licensed electrician.
• Can I turn on my heating and air conditioning unit?
  We recommend that you not turn on your furnace or air conditioning unit without clearance from the HVAC contractor.
• What items do I keep in my possession?
  Cash, Medications, Valuable Jewelry, Checkbooks, Personal Documents, Valuable Paintings, Flammables, Pet, Weapons/Ammunition, Gasoline, Cans, Stamp/Coin Collections, etc.
• How do I keep track of non-restorable items?
  We recommend you make a list of items (including food items) deemed non-restorable. Use a format like a sample below, or obtain a similar form from your insurance company. Make a copy for your insurance company and keep one for yourself.
• Do I need to move out of my property during the fire restoration process?
  This is ultimately your decision. Some things you may want to consider are safety concerns, odors, electricity, noise from equipment, etc. If vacating your premises for any length of time, consider the following: forward your mail to your temporary residence; stop newspaper and other deliveries; notify utility company, Cable Company, etc. of temporary suspension of services.
• Do I need general contractors?
  There are some items that may require general contractors, such as drywall/painting, electrical, plumbing, roofing, framing/finish carpentry, flooring/carpet, installation of doors, windows, cabinets, post-construction cleanup, etc. Please talk with a SERVPRO representative as we have the ability to provide these services to you through our own in-house facility.
• Do my belongings need to be moved away from the premises?
  Depending on the source, nature, and extent of the fire, it may be best to remove all belongings to a secure facility for cleaning, storage and to make room for restoration or construction. SERVPRO will work with you and your insurance claim representative to manage this process.
• Will I have access to my belongings while they are in storage?
  Yes, with advance notice we can schedule a time for you to access your requested items.
• What about special items? Artwork, china, heirlooms, etc.
  Some high-value items require restoration by specialists. Working with your insurance claim representative, we can help you identify these and locate a qualified restorer.

Who is responsible for payment for the service?
Ultimately you, the property owner, are responsible for payment and will need to sign a form authorizing repairs and payment for the restoration services. If this is an insurance claim, SERVPRO generally collects the deductible (co-payment) amount from you and bills the balance to your insurance provider as a service to you. If you have a large loss, your mortgage company may be included as a payee on the payment from your insurance company, and you may need to obtain a signature from them as well. If your claim is not covered by the insurance or you decide not to file a claim, you will be expected to pay in full.

Kitchen Fire Prevention Tips

6/12/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.

Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.

If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

Keep anything that can catch fire—oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains—away from the stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.

Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.

For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.

Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

Smoke Detector Maintenance Tips from SERVPRO

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

You have several appliances, systems, components and products in your home, many of which you use and depend on every day. Perhaps the most important one is something you hope to never need: a smoke alarm. This device is a critical warning mechanism that will alert you if smoke is present in your home. However, if you don't have enough in your house, or if you don't properly maintain them, you could suffer awful consequences if a fire does start.

Proper Alarm Placement, Care

If you move into a new home, you shouldn't have to worry much about whether you have enough alarms. On the other hand, older places might not be up to smoke detector standards. Make sure you adhere to the following:

• Have one alarm in every sleeping room of the house.
• Have one alarm outside each sleeping area.
• Have at least one alarm per floor.
• Make sure you properly install each alarm; have a professional help you if necessary.
  
  

Replacement

For years, fire damage restoration experts have advised homeowners to replace the batteries in each alarm at least once a year. This is a good guideline to follow if you have an older alarm. Newer alarms, however, have a much longer battery life. With these, you'll only have to change the batteries once every 10 years. It is wise to test your alarm monthly. Most models have a function where you can push a button on the device, which will sound the alarm, letting you know the battery is working and that the sound is sufficiently loud.

Don't Disconnect

Whatever you do, never disconnect a smoke alarm. Some homeowners get annoyed when the alarms go off if something is burning on the stove or in the oven. It's unwise to unhook your alarm under any circumstance.

A smoke alarm could save your life someday. Make sure you have the right number in your home and that you replace the batteries properly.

Summer Fire Prevention Tips from SERVPRO

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

We here at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia deal with many house fires throughout the year, they are the most common disaster throughout the U.S and with the summer rolling in, here are some ways you can help prevent these: 

#1. Don’t use fireworks at home

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, it’s always best to leave fireworks to the professionals and attend public fireworks displays instead.

#2. Be careful when grilling outdoors

Practice safe grilling this summer with these grilling fire tips:

• Always use your grill outdoors and far away from any structures. 
• Clean your grill after every use to prevent a buildup of fat or grease that can cause a grease fire.
• Stabilize the grill on a flat surface to prevent it from tipping.
• Watch for gas leaks. 
• Use charcoal starter fluid carefully. Don’t add starter fluid to the fire if it starts to go down.
• Have baking soda, a bucket of sand, or a fire extinguisher handy if you need to put out the fire. Never add water to a grease fire.

#3. Beware of lawn mower fires

You may use your mower with no signs of trouble then put it away in your garage without realizing the potential danger. If the fuel flows from the tank into the engine while the engine is turned off, it will eventually cause a buildup of flammable vapors and a heat source can spark a fire in your garage. To reduce this risk, replace your fuel line every other year, inspect your carburetor for damage, and add fuel stabilizer every fill up.

#4. Have your air conditioner inspected

Regular maintenance and tune-ups of your heating and cooling systems can help prevent a fire. 

#5. Reduce your risk of a kitchen fire

Throughout the year, kitchen fires are responsible for most home fires. The stovetop is the usual starting point for kitchen fires, not the oven. To reduce your risk of a fire, always remain in the kitchen when grilling, frying, or cooking on your stovetop. Make sure there are no flammable materials near the heat such as a paper towel dispenser or dish towel. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen but not too close to the stove and oven in case of fire and remember to suffocate cooking flames with a lid, not water.

#6. Check your dryer

Most dryer fires are the result of failing to clean the dryer vent ductwork as highly flammable lint will build up over time and may be ignited by the heat of the dryer. Clean your lint trap between every load and clean your dryer vent at least once a year with a special vent cleaning brush. Make sure the outside dryer exhaust vent allows hot air to escape.

#8. Make sure your smoke detectors work

You should have at least one smoke detector on every floor of your house in an area where it can be heard from every room of the house. Inspect your smoke detectors regularly to make sure they work and develop an escape plan that your entire household can practice in case of emergency. The escape route should have two possible exits from every room and these paths should be as free of clutter as possible.

Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Every fire extinguisher is assigned a class. The suppressant in a Class A extinguisher differs from a Class B, C, D, or K extinguisher. Homeowners should consider where each piece of home fire safety equipment will be kept and choose the most effective suppressant for the fire risks in this area. The following fire preparedness measures can help homeowners purchase the right extinguishers.

Consider the Location

Certain extinguisher classes are better suited for different parts of a residence. Here are a few general guidelines:

• Home extinguishers should be able to put out fires involving standard combustibles
• It is a good idea to put an extinguisher rated for electrical equipment near appliances
• Class B extinguishers can be used on flammable liquids in a garage or work space or kitchen grease fires
  
  

Some extinguishers, such as Class D or K, are less common for residential use. Even though a Class K extinguisher is designed to suppress grease fires, using this extinguisher improperly can cause grease to spatter and spread the fire.

Check the Suppressant Class

Each fire extinguisher class is determined by the suppressant. Here are the contents of each major class of extinguisher:

• Class A uses monoammonium phosphate
• Classes B and C combine monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate
• Class D uses sodium chloride or copper powder
• Class K uses potassium compounds
  
  

Multi-class extinguishers are also available. A-B-C extinguishers are popular for residential use.

Choose One-Time Use or Refillable

Homeowners can save money up front by purchasing a single-use extinguisher. A rechargeable extinguisher costs more, but refills are less expensive than buying a new extinguisher designed for one-time use.

All of these factors determine which class of fire extinguisher is the best choice for various areas of a residence. If a fire is too large to suppress, home fire damage restoration specialists can rebuild structural damage and clean contents.

Wood Encapsulation After a Fire

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

In the process where SERVPRO is preparing a home that has had fire damage, the smells and air quality are very strong and unhealthy to say the least.

Even weeks after the entire home has been demoed and the inside of the home is close to being ready for construction to replace drywall, re-texture walls, paint, lay flooring, etc... The odor still lingers!

Here at SERVPRO we tackle the air quality by cleaning ducts, and often replacing the ductwork. The next step is to encapsulate all wood framing that was not damaged however still has been affected by odor.

Once full encapsulation is complete, the home begins to have a clean smell and is safe for being reconstructed.

SERVPRO takes great pride in this entire process and the family is always very hands-on in the SERVPRO process. It is actually very healing for the family because when anyone has been awoken by a home fire, it is very scary and unsettling!

Allowing these families to be a part in choosing what personal belongings they get back within 48 hours, helping to choose new paint colors, flooring, and stepping in to their home once it is encapsulated, it very comforting and these families begin to not only feel hopeful but they begin to relax and see themselves actually coming home.

Give SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia a call at 334-371-7378!

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup & Restoration

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your San Mateo County Home's basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 650-794-1000

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

How to Locate Water Leaks in Your Home

6/6/2021 (Permalink)

Water leaks are more than just a nuisance. Undetected leaks — or those that are simply ignored — can eventually lead to costly repair and further water damage due to rot, mold growth from extra moisture, and other extensive damage. Finding and fixing a water leak early on & before it gets out of hand can save you money and avert potential disaster.

The first sign of a hidden leak can be a higher than normal water bill. Once you’ve ruled out that the cause isn’t due to extra water use by house guests or from watering your lawn and garden during the warm-weather months, an undetected leak is the likely culprit.

Did you know that fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save homeowners about 10 percent on their water bills? 

There are a few different ways to check for hidden water leaks. The first tool is your water meter.

In addition to telling the utility company how much water you’ve used, your home’s water meter can also be used to your advantage to find hidden water leaks.

Follow these simple steps to uncover your water leak:

1. Stop using all water inside and outside the house. This includes all the indoor faucets, outdoor faucets, water-using appliances, ice makers, and automatic backflow cleaning in whole-house water filters. Don’t flush the toilet during the test.
2. Locate your water meter. If your meter has a water flow indicator, watch the indicator for movement. This is a small rotating wheel on the meter that can detect even small amounts of water flow. If it moves when you know no one’s using any water, then there’s a leak somewhere in your house.
3. If you don’t have a water flow indicator, record the numbers that appear on the meter. Wait a few hours (remember not to use any water during this time).
4. Check the meter. If the meter reading goes up, it’s an indication of a hidden water leak.

Now that you know you have a leak, the next step is pinpointing its exact location. The following are the most common places for a home water leak to occur.

What is Secondary Water Damage?

6/5/2021 (Permalink)

Here Are A Few Things You Should Know About Secondary Damage

Any time you have water damage in your home, there’s a chance that secondary damage could also pose a risk. From what this damage is to types of damage, including black mold, here are a few things you should know.

1. What It Is

A secondary type of damage is any damage that occurs as a result of damage related to the initial problem. For example, if a pipe breaks the carpet could get soaked. This is a primary damage. However if the soaked carpet is not dried and the sub-floor warps, the damage to the sub-floor would be considered secondary. Secondary damage usually occurs if the initial damage is extremely severe, incorrectly cleaned up, or damage that is not cleaned up in a timely manner.

2. Types of Damage

There are a few types of damage that often fall into the secondary category. These include warped wood, cracking in sheet-rock or plaster, peeling vinyl, cracked tile, water stains, black mold, and high humidity problems as excess water evaporates. If the water damage has created a weakness in the exterior of the home, such as the roof, you may also experience problems from high winds or additional weather.

3. What To Do

If your home has suffered any type of water damage it’s best to contact a water damage restoration service for help with cleanup and repairs. These professionals can act quickly, are trained in the proper cleanup procedures, and have the tools necessary to safely do the job. Correctly handling the situation can help you prevent additional secondary damages.

It’s important to remember that Secondary damage happens as a result of water damage. It can include things such as warped flooring or black mold. If you have water damage it’s important to call a restoration service, and make repairs as quickly as possible. Doing so can help you mitigate additional damages to your home.

Heavy Rains Can Lead to Water Damage

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

It does not take a large flood or severe weather to cause water damage to buildings—in fact, any amount of moisture can cause damage.

Heavy rains, defined as a rainfall rate greater than 0.3 inches per hour, are a big culprit of water damage, as they can suss out leaky spots in your home that lighter rain may not affect.

It is important to know where these vulnerabilities lie so that you are able to prevent them and know what to look out for.

How Household Water Damage Can Be a Result of Heavy Rain

Backup of clogged gutters. When gutters are filled with debris and do not allow water to drain effectively, heavy rain can quickly lead to serious pooling of water against your roof. This water can begin to seep into the areas it comes into contact with and cause damages.

Leaks around windows and doors. Any external opening of a home will be sealed when it is constructed, but with age, these storm-proofing measures can grow weaker. Steady rain can work its way into microscopic vulnerabilities in this sealant and lead to leaks.

Poor drainage around the foundation. When water is not able to drain away from the foundation and there is a lot of it, it can begin to seep into even the most resilient of materials such as cinder blocks. Landscaping and proper drainage are great ways to defend against this.

Leaks in and around the roof. Roof leaks are some of the leading causes of water damage to the home, and they can be quite sneaky. Broken shingles or general disrepair can lead to vulnerabilities that steady rainfall can quickly exploit and seep into.

Malfunctioning of a sump pump system. For houses that have a sump pump installed, regular care is important to ensure it is working properly. If it is unable to drain water out of your home, you can wind up with a serious flooding issue.

Leaks around chimneys and skylights. Seals on the roof around chimneys and skylights should be checked often and well-maintained to prevent leaks. As these seals age, they can begin to let in water especially if they become overwhelmed with rain.

If you experience water damage due to heavy rain, call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378!

Facts About Sewer Backups

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Facts About Sewer Backups

When storms bring heavy rain water you may find your business is in danger of sewer backup. Cleaning up the mess can be a tricky process so there are several things you should know.

1. Sewer Water is Classified as Black Water

It’s important to note that all sewer water is classified as black water. This is because any water that may have been highly contaminated by fecal matter, bacteria, fertilizer, and other substances unsafe for human consumption falls into this category. Flood water is categorized in this way as well because it is difficult to determine where the water flow has been.

2. Safety Standards Should Be Followed During Cleanup

Due to its contaminated nature, there are many safety recommendations for dealing with sewer backup. A local flood damage restoration service will already know these regulations and have the appropriate safety gear and cleaners required for the job. For this reason, it’s highly recommended to contact a restoration service if your company has experienced sewage flooding of any type. Appropriate safety gear may include waders, coveralls, masks, gloves, and shoe covers.

3. The Area Will Need To Be Sanitized

One of the main things to be remembered after removing sewer waste from an area is that the space will need to be sanitized. Doing so can help prevent the spread of bacteria or other contaminants that could lead to further problems in the long term if left untreated. Fortunately, your restoration tech will have the appropriate cleaners and equipment to clean the space before repairs begin.

When dealing with sewer backup it’s important to contact a professional who can follow all the safety standards as Sewer water is considered to be black water. It’s also important to remember that after the material has been removed and the area dries, the space will also need to be sanitized before repairs can begin.

If you have a sewage backup at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378.

A Rusty Water Heater Can Cause Problems

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

Wet spots on the floor or a rusted tank may signal a problem. If you are having a problem with your water heater, contact a qualified plumbing contractor right away. Once you have called a plumbing contractor, contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia to provide an inspection utilizing advanced technical equipment.

Upon inspection if damages are determined, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will address the water damage and provide a full repair service estimate. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has a 24 hour emergency service team that is highly trained and ready to help you at your home or business.

Contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378 to help save your home or business.

How to Prepare Your Business for a Disaster

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, in life, accidents happen and disasters strike. All too often, these types of events happen when we least expect it. Luckily, we can prepare in advance to defend ourselves against things getting to the absolute worst point they possibly can.

Business owners face a special type of risk when considering accidents or disasters. If they do not prepare for mishaps and consider how they will respond in trying times, they could face even more loss and expend more resources than necessary. Unfortunately, as many as 50% of businesses close following a disaster. When it comes to creating an emergency preparedness plan for your business, there are several elements that every business owner should consider in order to best protect their property, assets, and employees. Here are several steps you can take so that you are prepared in the event that misfortune does strike:

-Conduct a risk assessment of your business. Consider what threats your business is most vulnerable to. Take into account a number of factors, such as what type of business you conduct and environmental factors so you can make informed decisions when considering the costs and benefits of different plans to implement.

-Create an action plan for emergencies. If you own a business where employees or customers could be present when an unfortunate decision takes place, we are sure that all your employees are aware of the emergency exits in your building. Make sure that they understand all expectations and responsibilities that may be placed on them during an emergency, given the specific circumstances.

-If you live in an area where you are especially susceptible to natural disasters such as tornadoes or hurricanes, make sure that everyone knows where the appropriate place to take shelter is. Additionally, keep an appropriate amount of essential supplies on hand. Encourage your employees to create their own emergency kits.

-Regularly review your insurance policy. Make sure you have emergency coverage. This can help protect you from potential extreme (and sometimes, unnecessary) financial loss.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is here for whatever happens, but we are also here to help you be “ready for whatever happens.” We can help you develop an Emergency READY profile so that you have an immediate plan of action to help you minimize business interruption and to complete mitigation in a timely manner.

Why You Should Hire SERVPRO of G/T/A for All Your Restoration Needs

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we strive to be involved in our growing community and here to help at a moment's notice. Here at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we are experienced and keep up with the latest innovations in the restoration industry to assist area homes and businesses'. When homeowners try to determine the extent of their loss, they may fall short. Without the tools to properly detect the extent of their damage, significant harm to their home can go unnoticed. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia’s investment in education and innovative, high-quality tools & equipment can help you avoid the additional expenses and secondary damage.

Our technicians are adept in multiple specializations supported by the IICRC. So, you can trust us for any of your restoration or mitigation needs. Our crew sets out to accomplish the tasks fast. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will assess the damages inside and out, and our technicians will work swiftly yet carefully knowing that inappropriate cleaning methods can make the damage worse.

Being IICRC certified, our staff at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia are knowledgeable on the expected and unexpected behaviors of fire, water, and mold, and the damage it can cause in your home. Our training and experience in mitigation & remediation guarantees that we can quickly locate and solve the problem(s) before the integrity of your home or business is compromised.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is prepared for any size disaster. Call us today at 334-371-7378.

The Importance of Installing Smoke Detectors

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

There is no structure that cannot be made safer with properly installed smoke detectors. These devices, when used as instructed, can save lives and property. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia knows the safety of your family is your number one concern. It is ours as well. 

Did you know: 

• Properties without working smoke alarms has an increase in home fire deaths
• Around one-third of home fires begin in homes which do not have smoke alarms
• The chances of someone dying in a home fire is cut in half when smoke alarms are present

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia would like to share these suggestions: 

• We recommend that your home be equipped with smoke detectors outside and inside each sleeping area
• Place a smoke detector on all levels of the structure (bigger homes require more detectors). 
• Closing doors will inhibit the movement of heat, smoke, and fire. 
• Test your smoke alarms at least every thirty days. Testing is done by pressing the test button to ensure each alarm is working. 

 Most professionals agree that your alarms should be interconnected so that, no matter where the smoke is detected, everyone in the house is alerted simultaneously.  When the alarms sound, immediately vacate the structure and position you and your loved ones away from it until help arrives.

4 Tips for Disinfecting Your Office

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

Keeping a clean office environment should be a priority for your company. This will prevent the spread of germs and keep people healthier year-round.

Here are four tips for disinfecting your office:

1.) Wipe surfaces in one direction.

If you wipe a surface one direction and then go back the opposite direction, you are going to spread the germs right back on the surface. A swift wipe in one direction will be most effective in removing germs from a surface.

2.) Make sure you're using the right chemicals.

Make sure you are using the right chemicals for disinfecting. Each cleaning product should be labeled with its intended purpose. 

3.) Make sure you get to all of the high-touch areas.

High-touch areas should be at the top of your list for disinfecting. This includes things such as chairs, stair railings, telephones, restroom surfaces and coffee pot handles/dispensers.

4.) Make handwashing a priority in your business.

Stressing the importance of handwashing in your office will go a long way in preventing the unnecessary spread of germs.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at 334-371-7378!

Recovery Plan After a House Fire

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Having a plan for the moment a house fire starts is one of the best things you can do to boost your household’s safety. Getting everyone out of the house and calling for help in an organized manner is key, but it is also important to know what happens once the flames are extinguished.

Navigating the aftermath of a house fire is a complicated process, but with these helpful tips, you can make sure you are taking care of all the necessary considerations.

Navigating the Aftermath of a House Fire

Prepare yourself for what to expect. While it is impossible to predict the exact extent of your household’s damage before you go inside, being mentally prepared can help lessen the associated shock. Fire damage can often look more severe than people are expecting, so understanding how the charring, soot and smoke damage might appear can be helpful.

Wait to enter your home. Though many people will want to rush to re-enter the home and get started on their recovery process as quickly as possible, you should never do this without a green light from officials. Fires can compromise the structure of the home and make it quite hazardous, so it is important to prioritize staying safe above all else during recovery.

Contact your insurance company. Filing a fire damage claim will vary based on your policy provider, so getting in touch with them early on is a great way to make sure you are taking the right steps to get the most out of your claim.

Document the damages. Photos and a detailed inventory list are often requested by your insurance company anyway, but even if they are not, we recommend keeping track of the damages in an organized way. This will prevent you from accidentally forgetting about items that have been impacted by the fire and will come in handy as you work to recover.

Contact your restoration company. The emotional repercussions of a house fire can be difficult to deal with, which is why we always recommend prioritizing using the best restoration company you can. Trusting the company you work with will be vital in your peace of mind throughout the process and can help you return to your home as quickly as possible.

If your home is damaged in a house fire, you can count on us to help you. Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378 for a quick response.

10 Reasons to Call SERVPRO of G/T/A

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

From a burst pipe in an office building to faulty wiring in an apartment complex, fire and water losses are never planned, but they do occur.  SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia professionals know that there is no such thing as a small emergency when it threatens the welfare of the tenants and the revenue of the property owner or the business.  SERVPRO professionals can provide you with assistance with all your emergency needs.

1. 24 Hour Emergency Response: SERVPRO will work to meet and hopefully exceed your expectations.
2. Communication: SERVPRO will keep you informed on the status of your project.
3. Reduce Recovery Time: SERVPRO will help minimize business interruption.
4. Lower Recovery Cost: SERVPRO will help you save money.
5. Emergency Ready Profile: SERVPRO will help you plan for recovery before disaster strikes.  
6. Full Line of Service: SERVPRO will help to solve your cleanup needs.
7. A Leader in Storm Response: SERVPRO will help when you need it the most.
8. Over 50 years of business in the cleanup and restoration industry.
9. More than 1,700 locations that we can call in to help on those large projects.

Experience and training in mitigation damages ranging from single family home to skyscrapers.

Clean Homes Sell Faster!

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

It is a fact:  A clean, fresh smelling home sells faster.  Unfortunately, not all homes are maintained in the same way.  Nearly all realtors are faced, at some point, with a difficult listing to show.

Your sellers may have trouble spots to address before you list or schedule a home inspection.  The clients may choose to handle these issues themselves to avoid filing an insurance claim for the damage because it may not be covered by their policy and can affect the home's CLUE report.  CLUE (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange) is a database which records reported loss and damage information, and it is utilized by more than 80% of insurance companies.  Unfavorable CLUE reports can lead to increased premiums and policy renewal issues to property owners.

Whether the problem is a water stain on a hardwood floor or a mildew smell in the basement, reassure your clients that SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can get their home in top show condition and ready to sell.

Veteran realtors encourage clients to keep their homes in top condition for very important reasons:

• Increased market value
• Shortened list to sale conversion times
• Enhanced reputation for quality listings and quick sales.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia offers a variety of services to help revive your listings to op show condition:

• Carpet, Upholstery, Drapery and Blind Cleaning
• Ceiling, Wall and Hard Floor Cleaning
• Deodorization
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation.

Call us today at (334) 371-7378!

Water Damage Cleanup Advice for Commercial Buildings

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Building Water Damage Cleanup Tips

A flooded company is bad news. A broken pipe can cause a lot of damage and may even require you close up shop. Freezing is one of the main causes of bursting pipes and flood damage to commercial facilities. But water damage can be caused by fires as well.

Damage From Firehose

A fire is a devastating experience that is often surrounded by frustration, concern, and uncertainty. After a fire, your business may be damaged not only by flames and soot but by water as well. Many times, extensive firehose use by firefighters results in a flooded company with wet floors and drenched walls.

Damage From Sprinkler System

Many commercial buildings are equipped with fire sprinkler systems. They consist of a sprinkler head and a small glass bulb in the middle. The glass bulb is heat sensitive. If the temperature rises high enough to shatter the glass, the sprinklers drench an area with consistent water. Fire damage can be overwhelming in itself, but sprinklers may also lead to water damage. Although this added level of damage is frustrating, these sprinklers can save a building from being consumed by fire.

Cleanup

The most efficient way to deal with a flooded company after a fire is to hire a professional. If you choose to attempt a cleanup on your own, here are the necessary steps.

• Extract the water.
• Remove any damaged contents.
• Dry out the building.
• Use dry cleaning for any smoke damaged fabric.
• Use preventative measures to ensure mold doesn’t grow in the damaged area.
  
  

When dealing with water damage after a fire, it is common to feel overwhelmed. Make sure to dry out any areas affected by water damage as soon as possible. Water restoration companies can help reduce the stress associated with the disaster and get your business’s doors open sooner.

Fire Damage to Your Business

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a commercial fire successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert.

Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records.

In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately.

Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building.

Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, fires can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378 for all your fire restoration needs!

Identifying Smoke Damage After a Fire

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians Deal with Different Types of Smoke Damage

Various mishaps or accidents can lead to kitchen fires damaging various materials. Fires also leave smoke residues on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. Standard smoke residues such as soot are readily discernible through touch or vision. However, there are byproducts of smoke that are harder to identify, so there is a possibility of having smoke damage that you do not notice.

What types of residues do fires leave?

The kind of residues left after fire damage in your kitchen may depend on the materials burnt, the duration it takes to contain the fire, among other things. Incidents commonly involve stove flare-ups, grease fires, and incidents sparked by electrical appliances. The materials burnt range from oil, proteins such as meat, plastics and organic materials such as wood, leaving deposits like:

• Protein residues
• Fuel oil residues
• Dry smoke residues
• Wet smoke residues

How do you tell which residues a fire left?

Most smoke residues are readily visible since they have different colors compared to the materials where they are deposited. What is harder to tell from a casual look is the volume of residues left and the distribution around the room. Our SERVPRO technicians use simple approaches such as wiping the wall surface with a cleaning sponge starting from the area closest to the seat of the fire, thus establishing residue distribution patterns. The process also helps establish whether there are wet smoke, protein, or oil residues. 

Is it possible to miss smoke residues?

The characteristics and behavior of smoke are the two main reasons why it is possible to miss residues. Some byproducts of smoke, such as protein residue, can have amber or yellowish appearance. They might also be virtually invisible, thus causing minimal discoloration of painted walls or other surfaces such as cabinets. 

Spread patterns can also hide smoke residues. Even when fire damage is contained in the kitchen of your residence, the smoke is likely to filter into other rooms within the house. Failure to check those areas can leave residues in place. 

Smoke moves through convection currents to colder areas within the loss site. Concealed areas such as cabinets and other hidden cavities attract more smoke due to cooler temperatures, thus leading to more deposits. Our SERVPRO restoration crews include certified FSRT, Fire, and Smoke Restoration Technicians who are well versed with smoke behavior and thus able to take the right actions, including establishing spread patterns and opening up hidden sections where residues might accumulate out of sight.

Is cleaning sufficient when dealing with smoke damage?

Cleaning is an effective solution to fight smoke damage since it removes residues restoring a surface to its pre loss state. However, the effectiveness of the cleaning exercise may differ depending on factors such as:

• The porosity of the surface
• Age of the surface
• Heat levels during the fire
• Moisture

Residues deposited on porous surfaces penetrate further, making it harder to clean using methods such as wiping. The porosity level of a material can be natural or can be the result of the conditions prevalent during the incident. For example, higher temperature levels open up pores in materials allowing deeper penetration of residues. Sufficient moisture leads to the setting of residues, which can interfere with cleaning. In most loss sites, moisture comes from firefighting efforts by firefighters or suppression systems such as sprinklers. 

How does SERVPRO respond to the challenges of smoke damage?

Cleaning involves four standard actions, including:

• Lubrication
• Mechanical action
• Suspension and dispersion
• Chemical action

Although all the actions help clean the affected areas, they work uniquely, so there is a need to use just what is necessary. Our technicians evaluate the loss site to determine which actions would be most effective. We also evaluate the materials in the area to ensure that the action we choose does not create secondary damages. For example, since we know that wet cleaning can lead to the absorption of particles by materials, we use mechanical action such as wiping surfaces with sponges to remove dry, non-greasy residues from a surface. We can use specialized cleaning products such as chemical sponges to remove residues from a surface without leaving smudges.

Setting a cleaning goal also helps deal with challenges. The goal of cleaning can be to restore the affected area to its pre loss state. Cleaning can also help prepare the loss area for refinishing. If the area requires refinishing, cleaning needs to remove physical deposits and odor only since refinishing takes care of minor issues such as blemishes.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can help you address any challenges posed by smoke damage, "Like it never even happened." Give us a call at (334) 371-7378!

Why You Need a Restoration Inspection After a Fire

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

Damage to a kitchen after a grease fire

Residential and commercial fires are unpredictable and can be devastating.

Hopefully you have given thought to fire prevention for your home. In addition to taking these steps, you have also developed an escape plan with your family. In the unfortunate case of a serious fire, would you know where to turn after the fire crews leave?

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is the simple, effective solution. We'll respond quickly and get to work restoring your property.

One of the first steps in our fire damage restoration process is the inspection.

Without proper and careful inspection, we cannot be sure of risk factors in the environment, the extent of damage, critical utility locations, and numerous other important factors. Inspection can sometimes be a lengthy process, as SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia inspectors have to look for and catalog many different factors.

Here are some of the things that we look for in homes that have taken fire damage.

Structural Instability

One of the most important considerations when inspecting fire damage is structural stability. Fires, as they burn through supports and other structural components, can create unstable conditions and high potential for collapse. Our technicians look for signs of structural weakening to ensure the safety of both you and SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia technicians, such as warped walls, burned columns, caved-in ceilings, buckled door frames, and scraping between doors, windows, and their upper frames. Any of these may be an indicator of a weakened structure, so knowing of them before any work begins has the potential to save lives.

Spots for Tarping and Boarding

Immediately following inspection, our reconstruction crews move in with tarps and boards to seal up any windows, doors, or holes in the home that leave it open to the elements. Inspectors look for these openings and compose plans to seal them most effectively.

Damage Inspection

Of course, the central part of any fire damage inspection is what has been hurt, and how much. Inspectors will catalog items, surfaces, and areas which have taken damage, describing in detail for our other teams how bad the situation is and what factors caused it. From there, our technicians can work to apply appropriate cleanup processes and measures. If you have used our ERP (Emergency Ready Profile) system, this process may be greatly accelerated as our inspectors will have access to plans and inventory lists beforehand.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia works with you to get fire damage cleaned up quickly, cheaply, and with the minimal safety concern. Give us a call at (334) 371-7378!

Landlord Responsibilities After a Fire

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

When a fire breaks out on a rental property, it can be hard to figure out who has to pay for the damages. Whether you rent out commercial or living space, the liability after a fire is pretty straightforward. Your tenants have to cover the damages done to their personal belongings, such as televisions, furniture and paintings. However, you are responsible for most damages done to the building itself. As a building owner, you may be responsible for the following tasks after an apartment fire.

Landlord's Responsibilities After a Fire

• Communicating With Fire Fighters: These first responders can help you assess the safety of your building. You and your tenants will likely want to enter the apartments to get an idea of the damage done. However, you cannot enter the building until it is deemed safe.
• Starting Claims Process: You have to get in touch with your insurance provider to report the apartment fire. Your agent may give you a list of fire restoration professionals that they prefer you use. You may also want to make sure your renter calls his or her insurance provider to start the claims process for personal belongings.
• Documenting Fire Damage: You need to take pictures of the structure, make lists of damaged appliances and record other furnishings you owned that were damaged.
• Securing the Property: You need to secure the property for two reasons. First, you need to protect the safety of those who may want to enter the building, such as your renters. Putting up warning signs may be enough to keep people out until it is safe to enter. Second, you need to keep vandals and thieves out. You may need to board up windows and put up a security fence.

After an apartment fire, you need to take the proper steps to ensure that everyone, including yourself, is safe and fully aware of the damage liabilities. While you aren't responsible for all of the damages, you do have a lot of financial responsibility. 

Give SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia a call at (334) 371-7378 for all your fire restoration needs!

Call the Mold Remediation Professionals at SERVPRO

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Anytime you open your windows to let fresh air in, mold spores are blowing through your home. Turning on your air conditioner or heater may produce mold. Rainy days? They are great for watching movies, taking naps, and stirring up mold.

Take a moment and look all around you - everywhere you look, mold spores are present. Moisture provides mold with the perfect climate for growth, and by the time you see mold, it has typically been growing for a long time.

No matter what any business might advertise, you can’t ever fully get rid of mold. There’s a great deal of misinformation about the mold remediation process, and it’s imperative that you work with a company that is forthcoming about the process. At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we will always be open and honest with you about what our capabilities are.

Call SERVPRO to Help

All it takes is one simple phone call for help to be on the way. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, we are here for you. We want to start your mold remediation process as soon as we can, and we respond to your call and dispatch crews quickly. Mold spreads so rapidly - the faster we get started, the easier and more affordable it is to contain.

Mold Damage Assessment

Peace of mind arrives within hours of calling SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia. We quickly dispatch a Project Manager who helps navigate you through the entire process. They work alongside the crew to locate the water source that is feeding the mold growth. Using advanced technology and equipment, we are able to locate damage even if it isn’t in plain sight.

Mold Containment

The entire mold remediation process must be handled strategically, so there isn’t additional mold spreading during cleanup. For everyone’s health and safety, our highly trained team uses advanced containment equipment and procedures. Negative air chambers help us isolate the area, and negative air pressure can prevent further spreading during cleanup. It’s crucial that we successfully isolate and contain the area before moving forward.

Air Filtration

It takes professional-grade air purifiers and HEPA vacuums to help trap the mold particles. Powerful air scrubbers and filters are used to help filter out the mold spores during the remediation process. At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we work hard to make sure that we stop the spreading.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

Every home and every situation is unique, which is why there are so many different variables involved in the mold remediation process. Mold can be found anywhere from your carpet to your ceiling. While some areas of mold can be eliminated with antifungal or antimicrobial treatments, other areas and items might require full removal. If you have carpet or drywall that needs to be disposed of, we make sure to handle it safely.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings

If mold has spread to furniture or other personal items, we have multiple ways to help restore them. We understand that you might have sentimental items that have been compromised, and we do everything we can to restore those items. Throughout the entire process, your Project Manager works closely with you to make sure that everything is handled with care. Our high-tech equipment cannot just clean and sanitize, but it can also deodorize.

Restoration

It can feel so nice once you are in the final homestretch of the project. The Project Manager assigned to you goes through the area with the team to make sure that your home is all ready to be repaired. Some homes may require some hefty rebuilding of areas, while others may require some fresh drywall or new flooring. No matter what needs to be done, we have experienced workers to make sure it gets done right.

During mold remediation, stress is inevitable, and we understand that this has affected you in multiple ways. We don’t just care about the mold in your home - we care about you. That’s why we assign you a Project Manager who is your one-stop contact and who walks you through the entire process. They are familiar with the insurance process and can provide you with any documentation your insurance company may need.

There is no one-size-fits-all process for mold remediation because there are so many ways and areas that mold can make its appearance in your home. Until we assess the magnitude of the situation, it’s hard to say what your home needs. One thing we can be sure about is that we have the skills and equipment to handle whatever remediation your home may need.

Protect your health and your home - call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at the first signs of mold in your home.

Traits of a Quality Restoration Company

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

What to Look for in a Restoration Company

When looking for a restoration company, there are a number of features you may want to look at including the ability to be faster to any size disaster. Choosing the right company for your property's restoration needs can make a difference. Here are some things you may want to consider.

1. The Ability to Deal With Multiple Damage Types

Many professional restoration services like SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia offer the ability to work with multiple damage types. This is often because one type of damage can lead to another. For example, fire put out by water can also result in mold if the water is left to stand too long. Most restoration companies can help fix smoke and fire damage, water damage, storm damage and also offer mold remediation for this exact reason.

2. A Quick Response Time

Being faster to any size disaster also means arriving with the right materials and equipment required to do the job. Locally owned franchises such as SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia have locations across the country allowing them to be where they need to be when disaster strikes. Because they are a franchise, they also have access to corporate equipment and materials, which gives them the ability to handle large-scale jobs as well.

3. They Offer a Variety of Services

A restoration company such as SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia also offers a variety of services designed to help your agent process the insurance claim. These include an electronics inventory service as well as an online database that provides access to information such as photographs and progress reports for the damaged areas, estimates, filed paperwork, and many other details needed for a properly filed claim.

Whether you're choosing a restoration company because they have the ability to be faster to any size disaster, or they can deal with multiple damage types, you may also want to look at the other services they provide. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can help you clean contents as well as structure. 

GIVE us a call today at (334) 371-7378!

Let the Professionals at SERVPRO Handle the Cleaning

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

We receive this question many times from concerned callers: "Can I just spray bleach on it?" 

Using bleach to take care of mold was once recommended by agencies such as OSHA and the EPA. However, they have since been revised after research revealed that the "do-all, be-all cure" for killing microbial growth, actually had the opposite effect. First, let us take a look at how mold forms to understand why using bleach is not effective. 

Mold needs water, food and typically a warm temperature to grow. This illustrates the first reason to call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia: If mold is growing, chances are that the materials are wet. There has likely been a water loss of some sort, and until it is properly dried, mold will continue to grow. 

The chlorine in bleach, due to its ionic composition, cannot penetrate porous surfaces. Porous surfaces include materials such as drywall, ceilings, wood, carpet and many others. Spraying bleach on the mold will only kill it on the surface. Many people do not know that mold actually has roots called hyphae. These roots will still remain in the porous material and eventually rise to the surface again. Remember that bleach contains both chlorine and water. The chlorine cannot make it below the surface - but the water can. Thus, you are actually replenishing the mold with one of the key things it needs to grow - water! Secondly, it will "bleach" the color, making it appear that the mold is gone. Again, this is only on the surface. 

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia we use specialized products, designed to travel deep into porous surfaces to remove mold at its roots. Sometimes we cannot remove the mold from the material and the material must be completely removed from the home for the safety of you and your family. Our technicians are trained to differentiate between what can be safely cleaned and what cannot. In addition, live mold releases spores into the air. The air in your home may need to be treated with specialty equipment to make sure that all spores are removed.

How to Safeguard Your Home Against Potential Fires

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

You Can Lower Your Fire Risks by Developing Safer Cooking Habits and Properly Maintaining Appliances.

Residential fires are common occurrences. These fires often originate from cooking mishaps, poorly maintained appliances, and those that malfunction. Once ignited, blazes can quickly spread to nearby homes.

When looking for a reputable service to remediate your fire-related issues, remember that all fire damage cleanup services are not equally capable of doing the job right.  Many simply do not give their technicians the proper training, and some workers likely lack the requisite experience to handle more severe cases.  Other companies do not have the specialized equipment necessary to successfully clean up and restore the worst fire damage.  Therefore, knowing what your local cleanup and restoration companies are capable of before a fire occurs is to your advantage.

What Can I Do to Reduce My Risks of a House Fire and Mitigate Damages if One Occurs?

Fortunately, you can do several things to substantially lower your residential fire risks and limit your damages if one ever happens.  SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia offers the following fire risk mitigation suggestions to homeowners:

•   Make sure cooking oil never overheats and only use deep fryers controlled by a thermostat
•   If an oil or grease fire starts, turn off the heat if possible and do not attempt to extinguish it with water
•   Keep clothing and other flammable materials away from the stove and burners
•   Ensure that cooking appliances are turned off once you are finished cooking
•   Avoid leaving cooking food or children unattended in the kitchen
•   Properly maintain and routinely clean all appliances
•   Keep a Class A-B-C fire extinguisher in your kitchen

If a fire occurs at your home or business, give SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia a call at (334) 371-7378!

What Can I Do After a Fire Loss?

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

If You Suffer Loss from Fire Damage, SERVPRO Comes to the Rescue to Restore Your Home

Any size fire leaves significant damage to your home, and you need to act as quickly as possible so that you can minimize the loss. If you wait too long after the fire gets extinguished before cleanup begins, you are left with pungent lingering odors. Additionally, the water used to extinguish the fire poses a potential hazard to materials in your home and possible mold growth. Calling in the help of trained experts ensures that your home is back to normal, so it seems, “Like it never even happened.”

What Should I Do After the Fire is Extinguished?

If you are dealing with fire damage, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is available to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for emergency restoration. Debris throughout your home, along with airborne threats, can hinder restoration and makes DIY methods nearly impossible. We can perform a walkthrough assessment of your home once it is deemed safe to record conditions and identify the best steps to proceed. We also bring advanced tools and equipment that allow us to get rid of stubborn residue from soot and smoke. Early mitigation helps cut back on the severity of the damage as well as the potential for long-lasting, hazardous effects.

What Can Your Company Do to Help with Restoration?

We pay close attention to any areas of the home where smoke and soot residue may have gotten through cracks and crevices. All damaged materials and debris gets removed so that we can begin the restoration and replacement process. A plan is put into place that allows us to utilize our resources in the most effective manner possible, including:

•   Pack out services for the removal of personal belongings to be cleaned in detail at our facility.
•   Soot removal from all surfaces that helps inhibit corrosive action.
•   Assignment of technicians to address the cleaning of ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.
•   Inspection of all structural elements to ensure safety.
•   For smoke odors that got into the wall cavities, we remove the first few inches of insulation within the walls to be replaced with new insulation.

Why Can’t I Address the Fire Damage on My Own?

It is difficult to thoroughly remove charred debris and rid your home of stubborn odors from soot and smoke residue. Just a few reasons why professional intervention is recommended after a fire include:

•   The residue and debris left from a fire loss can be very toxic. Our team comes with all of the personal protective equipment (PPE) necessary to safely manage the job.
•   There are often significant amounts of water or chemicals used to extinguish the fire. This must be addressed right away with the help of our expert extraction techniques and tools to speed up the process.
•   Various portions of your structure, including the floors, walls, and ceilings, call for a professional assessment to determine whether or not they are stable.
•   The methods and cleaning agents used to address soot cleanup vary depending on the surfaces impacted and the materials that burned in the fire. Our team is fully trained following the standards set form by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to handle any size fire damage project.
•   We have EPA-registered cleaning agents and disinfectants that allow us to safely and effectively clean and deodorize your home at the end of the restoration.

What Cleaning Methods are Used to Restore My Interior?

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is trained to formulate a plan that best suits the unique fire loss situation at hand. We perform an assessment, and technicians are instructed on each step to provide you with the best results.

•   Wet Cleaning: is done to address hard surfaces that are not easily damaged by water. Technicians may use a combination of water and specialized cleaning agents to strip away smoke and soot residue, leaving the surface clean and refreshed. If necessary, we also have ultrasonic cleaning machines that use ultrasonic waves that pass through an aqueous solution made up of mild detergent, softener, and water. High-frequency sound waves create pressure that results in millions of bubbles to loosen grime.
•   Dry Cleaning: is done to clean items that may become damaged when they come into contact with water, which includes electronics, antiques, and books. In some cases, our skilled technicians carefully use sponges, brushes, and towels to loosen soot and residue from your belongings.

There is nothing like knowing that you have a trained team on your side to help once you suffer from fire damage in your home. Give our SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia technicians a call and we can send out a team 24/7 to get started with your emergency restoration needs. You can reach us by calling (334) 371-7378, and we will send out a team promptly to start with an assessment.

Call SERVPRO for Immediate Service

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia 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 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (334) 371-7378

Residential Services

Whether your home needs emergency services or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

Give SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia a call today at (334) 371-7378 for all your residential and commercial restoration needs!

Signs of Storm Damage to Your Home

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

After a storm rolls through, it is important to inspect your house for damage the storm may have caused. Listed below are areas you should be looking at.

1. Roof: Look for shingles that have discoloration, tearing, or even holes in them. These can all be signs that your roof has been damaged. Another sign is if there are leaks in your roof or your ceiling.
2. Gutters: After a hail storm, looking for dents or dings can also give you a better picture of what the storm did to the rest of your home. Your gutters can also give you insight to whether you have roof damage. Check to see if there are granules from the asphalt shingles in your gutter.
3. Windows: Look at each of the windows on your homes and note any signs of shattered or broken window and frame damage. This is especially important after a hail storm or a strong wind storm.
4. Exterior: Not only is it important to look at the siding of your home to check for damage, it is also important that you check all appliances. Inspect your AC/HVAC unit as well as items such as an outdoor grill.

After your inspection, if you notice any signs of storm damage follow up by checking the area for signs of mold, mildew, pests or other secondary damage. Our team is able to put an emergency roof tarp to prevent any further damage. Call SERVPRO and we’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

High Winds Can Be Powerful

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

What are damaging winds? 

Damaging winds are often called “straight-line” winds to differentiate the damage they cause from tornado damage.  Strong thunderstorm winds can come from a number of different processes.  Most thunderstorm winds that cause damage at the ground are a result of outflow generated by a thunderstorm downdraft.  Damaging winds are classified as those exceeding 50-60 mph.

Straight-line wind is a term used to define any thunderstorm wind that is not associated with rotation, and is used mainly to differentiate from tornadic winds.

A downdraft is a small-scale column of air that rapidly sinks toward the ground.

A macroburst is an outward burst of strong winds at or near the surface with horizontal dimensions larger than 4 km (2.5 mi) and occurs when a strong downdraft reaches the surface. To visualize this process, imagine the way water comes out of a faucet and hits the bottom of a sink. The column of water is the downdraft and the outward spray at the bottom of the sink is the macroburst. Macroburst winds may begin over a smaller area and then spread out over a wider area, sometimes producing damage similar to a tornado. Although usually associated with thunderstorms, macrobursts can occur with showers too weak to produce thunder.

Source: www.nssl.noaa.gov

Clogged Drains Can Cause Flood Damage

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Our Flood Water Removal Technicians Will Help You Handle the Storm Flood Damage in Your Property.

Floodwater can cause lasting damage when it gets into your property. It rots wood paneling, stains furniture, and causes mold infestation. However, if you engage with SERVPRO technicians immediately after the storm, we can work quickly to get your property back to its former glory.

How much does flood damage restoration cost?

The cost of storm flood damage to property varies from case to case, depending on its intensity. When looking for restoration services near you, it is essential to note that the cheapest option is not the best. Quality matters, and you need to rely on the professionals to do an excellent flood damage remediation and restoration job.

At SERVPRO, our pricing system is straightforward and guarantees every client a friendly price. We have a team of certified price-estimators who follow a standardized process of assessing the restoration cost.

What should I do after my home floods?

•   Follow the authority’s instructions.
•   Keep off from any electrical cords and switch off the main electricity supply.
•   Keep your kids from moving flood water.
•   Avoid consuming foodstuffs that came into contact with the water.

Can you remove the mud on my driveway?

Our technicians have access to top of the line equipment and tools for effective cleaning. Since flood water can carry dirt and debris to your doorstep and into your property, we can use a diesel-powered power washer to clean the mud on your driveway and sidewalk. However, the equipment's pressure might not be sufficient to break the bound of the dirt. Therefore, we can add detergent to enhance the cleaning power of the machine.

How long does the drying process take?

The drying process in water cleanup and restoration can take several days. With the help of our advanced equipment and tools, we can dry your property thoroughly. We can place several axial air movers in the affected area to facilitate drying. The equipment removes moisture in affected surfaces and turns it into airborne water vapor. We remove the water vapor from the air using your home’s HVAC system and low grain dehumidifiers. The dehumidifier converts water vapor into liquid and extracts it from the property.

If flood damage occurs in your property, act fast. The longer the contaminated water stands in your property, the more damage it can cause. Call SERVPRO today and we’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

How SERVPRO Handles Storms

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Storms have become stronger and more severe over the years.  However, thanks to the technology available today we know a storm is coming and we prepare the best we can and it still isn’t enough. Neighborhoods, cities, towns and even states are displaced by storms.  

When a storm event occurs all resources are stretched to the breaking point including shelter, food, and water. These are just the basics of necessities that are hard to take care immediately following a devastated storm. We at SERVPRO have teams all over the country who are called Storm Teams. These Storm Teams have the equipment, manpower and knowledge to hit the ground running to help clean up and restore after a disaster. 

Our corporate office does a great job of dispatching our Storm Teams to the right place so that we can help communities get back on their feet. SERVPRO works with the people, insurance companies and authorities to get the area back to normal as quickly as possible. 

When you see the next storm headed to a city rest assured SERVPRO is ready to respond where we are needed.

Recovering After a Tornado

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Tornadoes are a terrifying, often devastating, weather event. They can turn houses into dust, and flip lives upside down. Living through a tornado can be traumatizing, and sometimes the aftermath is just as bad. Parts of your home may be destroyed, and the idea of fixing it can be overwhelming. Recovering from a tornado could be a huge task, depending on how bad the damage was. However, there are steps to take toward recovery and people ready to help along the way. There are steps that should be taken right after the storm passes, and other steps to take down the road when it is time for repairs and cleaning.

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

The first step is to stay in your safe place until the storm has completely passed. If you are able, try and wait until you get the all clear from local officials. After the storm, check yourself and those with you for any injuries. If someone is hurt, the next step is seeking out first aid. After everyone has been checked and is okay, you should see how bad the damage to your house is. Make sure to watch out for anything that is unstable and likely to fall. If you go outside, look out for any downed power lines. They can be life threatening, so if you see downed power lines stay inside.

Protect Your Property

After you make sure yourself and your loved ones are protected, start protecting your property. You can make temporary repairs in order to prevent further damage. Many insurance companies will reimburse you for the cost, so make sure to keep receipts just in case. In addition to temporary repairs, living expenses may also be reimbursable. If your house is damaged to the point of you having to stay in a hotel, keep the receipts. Your policy may pay you back for the cost of it. Make sure to make a list of anything that was damaged, and don’t throw out damaged belongings. An adjuster will need to assess them for value if your policy covers replacing them. You should also inspect all utility lines and appliances. Any damage could lead to a gas leak or electric shortage. Damaged electric wires may also cause a fire. You may even have to turn off the main valve in order to prevent more harm to your house. Once these steps have been taken, contact your insurance company. From there, they can work with you to see what your policy covers. Most of the time, they will hire services to come out and repair damages.

Clean Up and Repair

SERVPRO has an incredibly fast response time when it comes to disasters. We have equipment and personnel ranging across 1,700 franchises. Our experience and training will allow us to restore your property quickly and efficiently. In addition, we will document the entire process.

What to Do When a Storm Impacts Your Business

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

When you know that a storm is likely to impact your business, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, focusing on storm preparedness before a disaster occurs can help to keep yourself, your staff and your property safe.

1. Document the Building’s State Before the Storm

When a building is damaged, it’s often important for property management to provide the business’ insurance company with documentation of the destruction. However, it may also be beneficial to have photographs of your property prior to the incident. By showing an insurance adjuster what the business looked like before it sustained damage, you can help to ensure your claim is accurate.

2. Establish a Line of Communication

Storms can come on suddenly, and in the event that the property needs to be evacuated, it’s useful to know how to contact all employees in a timely manner. As part of your storm preparedness plan, you may consider asking all staff members to provide you with a way to reach them quickly before a disaster. Since you may not be present in the building when an emergency occurs, it can also be wise to create a list of tasks that the last person to exit should perform. An example might include making sure all doors and windows are closed.

3. Inspect the Property

Inspecting the structure before a storm can help you prevent damage, because leaks or malfunctioning equipment may worsen any problems that do occur. An inspection will also allow you to observe any openings in the building, which can happen when roof shingles are cracked or missing. This may let rain get inside more easily. If you see signs of a problem, you should contact emergency restoration services to prevent additional issues.

As a property manager, storm preparedness can be an important element of your job. Documenting the building before a disaster, establishing a line of communication and inspecting the structure can help you to prepare your business for any situation.

So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are ready to help get things back to "Like it never even happened."

Why Do Pipes Burst in the Summer?

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

When you hear about pipes bursting it is assumed it’s because of freezing temperatures, well that is the case most of the time but pipes can be faulty in the summer months as well.  Yes, its highly unlikely extreme temperatures and increased usage can lead the pipes to burst. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia wants our customers to be able to have tips and knowledge to help prevent it from happening!

Extreme Temperatures

With summertime comes less rainfall and harsh heat which can make the land and soil extraordinarily dry.  This makes the soil looser and makes the pipes more susceptible to movement which can lead to breakage. The breakage is more likely to happen on the route of the pipes from the road to your home, rather than inside your home. While you can’t control the weather, you can decrease the amount of water usage during extreme temperatures to alleviate the pressure on your system.

Increased Consumption

Who wants a pipe burst to put a damper on their summer? No one, right?  We know that during the summer months you may have a sprinkler, a garden, hanging flowers, all of which require water.  We are just as big of fans for summertime festivities as our customers and community members, with the increase of consumption can lead to failing pipes if your system hasn’t been updated or recently checked recently.  Another way to minimize the chance of a pipe bursting is to make sure that there isn’t any warping due to the cold weather in winter, to ensure your system can keep up with summer demands.

If any loss is to occur no matter the time of year, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is here to help and will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call us at 334-371-7378!

Negative Effects of Pipe Cleaning Products

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

Virtually anyone who has ever owned a home has dealt with the annoyance of backed-up pipes and a clogged drain. These issues can cause water to go down slowly or not at all. For many people, the first thought is to run to the store and pick up a drain-cleaning product. While these may seem effective, you should exercise caution and be aware of the long-term challenges they can create.

What Happens in the Pipes?

The hydrochloric acid in a drain cleaner can eat away at debris inside pipes. The liquid is designed to loosen the blockage, freeing the pipe or drain of the obstacle so water can go down. However, the chemicals can also affect the pipes and drains in the following ways:

• The chemical can sit in the pipes too long.
• The chemical can erode the pipes.
• The chemical can harm the finishes in your bathroom or kitchen.
  
  

Effects on Older Plumbing Systems

If you use these products on older pipes for a clogged drain, the consequences can be even more severe. While the cleaning agents may appear to work effectively, they can also harm the pipes through oxidation.

Effects on Plastic Pipes

If you have plastic pipes in your home, a cleaning product could be even more detrimental. The chemicals can create heat, warping, or damaging the pipes. If you continue to use the products on these pipes, they could break down and require replacement.

Other Outcomes

Drain cleaners can also be harmful to the environment and your septic system. Be aware that breathing in the fumes of these cleaners and touching the liquid can irritate your respiratory system and skin.

The Alternatives

For continual issues with a clogged drain, contact a plumber to inspect your lines. You can also get in touch with a professional sewage cleaning company to safely clear out your system.

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378!

SERVPRO Water Damage Restoration Services

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home or business can happen at any time. From a small leak in your roof to a bathtub or toilet overflow to a broken water heater to major flooding from a storm, water can damage your home or business quickly when you least expect it.

When water damage occurs, there are many factors that you must consider to tackle the issue including how much water you are dealing with, the potential for deterioration, and the rate the materials affected will soak up the water.

If water and moisture are left in items such as furniture, carpet, or building materials such as drywall or plaster, mold will begin to develop within a day or so. While metals will rust and corrode, drywall will begin to crumble and wood will begin to swell, split, and eventually rot. The main objective is to get the area affected by the water dry as soon as possible.

For minor water damage, you may be able to take care of the issue yourself. An example of a minor issue would be if your kids decide to get water all over the bathroom floor and you immediately mop it up. Since the potential for mold and structural damage is minimal, you can handle it yourself.

When there is major flooding in your home or business and walls, flooring, and even insulation is saturated, it is time to call upon a professional water damage restoration company. The technicians are experienced at water eradication and will be able to dry out the affected areas much quicker, decreasing the chance for dangerous mold to form and the possibility of damage occurring. The technicians are also aware of electrical hazards, health risks, and other safety hazards so they can remove the water in a safe manner. They also have the specialized equipment such as HEPA air scrubbers and dehumidifiers to remove moisture and odor in the air, leaving your home or business fresh, clean, and dry.

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378!

Buckled Floors? Call SERVPRO ASAP!

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

What Causes Hardwood Floors to Buckle?

Floor buckling is the most extreme reaction to moisture in a hardwood floor. Buckling occurs when the wood flooring pulls up from the subfloor, lifting several inches in one or more places. Fortunately, this is not a common occurrence.

If caught early, spot repair and replacement may be possible. Once the standing water is removed, several boards can be taken up from the floor so that the air can circulate across and below the floor. When the floor has dried to a more stable moisture level, repairs can usually be made.

What can SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia do?

• Set up floor protection, drying mats and drying equipment
• Wear PPE
• Clean all affected areas
• Content Manipulation, full Pack out and Storage
• Removal of buckled floorboards

Additionally, our Reconstruction Division will be able to replace the flooring for you, professionally. Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378!

Check the Drip Pan on Your HVAC

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

If your home or business has central air conditioning you are probably prone to want to stay inside and stay cool during these hot summer days. And why not! Air conditioning has revolutionized the way we live and the places we can inhabit. But one hazard with a central air handling unit that most home and business owners are not aware of is the overflow of the drip pan, especially when the unit is working in overdrive! Your drip pan is designed to drain out of the building but this small drain line (normally 1" PVC) can easily be clogged just enough to slow down the drain pan and to cause the overflow. The result of this issue is water damage that could go undetected for weeks while causing thousands of dollars in damage. If you experience water damage from an air handler overflow, call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378. We can help with all phases of restoration.

Need Help with Water Damage?

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

Extracting Water From Drywall is Not an Easy Task

It is almost inevitable that your home suffers from water damage at some point in time. Homes in the northeast are susceptible to rain, to the routine wear and tear of plumbing and appliances, and even the added stress that a change in temperature can place on the structure of your home. Regardless of the culprit, water can make its way into your home fairly quickly, leaving you in need of water removal services to restore it. When this happens, many homeowners consider forgoing professional advice and applying themselves to the cleanup process. As admirable as this effort is, misinformation can misguide your tactics, compounding the problem and leaving you vulnerable to future complications.

Our  neighbors who need help with water damage can count on SERVPRO for expert advice. Our team holds certifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC), where they learn about the intricacies of water removal and the restoration of your home. A call to our 24/7 hotline gives you access to our knowledge and expertise, which we put to work as soon as we arrive at your residence.

An essential aspect of what we do at SERVPRO is understanding the materials present in your home. Their use and composition guide our steps in evaluating the restorability and drying plan for your house. For example, drywall is present in many households, but they are not all the same. The drywall in a bathroom is different from one in a living room, and may require additional drying time. By using specialized moisture meters, we can determine just how extensive the water damage is and plan accordingly. This process also informs us as we evaluate restoration versus replacement and the cost-efficiency involved in this decision. When you choose to handle water extraction without expert advice, you run the risk of leaving hidden damage unattended, which can eventually resurface as mold and further complications.

Water removal is one of the areas of expertise for SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia. When you call us at (334) 371-7378, you access a vast amount of technical knowledge that works to protect your home. Our technicians, like you, commit to taking every step toward leaving your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Dripping Water Can Cause Damage!

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Has the Answer for Property Owners Faced with Water Damage.

Water damage is one of the risks a homeowners face when they buy a home. Indoor plumbing will likely fail at some point, and when it does, it makes for a wet mess. The experienced professionals at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can help you identify the source of the problem, correct it, and restore your home to a clean, dry condition. Rapid water extraction, after the source has been eliminated, and then moisture removal to reach standard household levels, will mitigate the dangers of contaminated water and mold growth. One of the first things that need to be determined when you have flooding caused by a plumbing failure is whether the water is clean, gray or black. These classifications indicate where the water is coming from and what sort of contaminants it may contain. Water damage occurs in many forms. 

Clean Water refers to water that is piped into your home. It has not yet been used for any household purpose, so it is clear and free of any hazardous substances.  Drinking water. This water may be leaking from a burst pipe in the walls; it can also be the result of a failed pressure valve on your water heater tank, which allows the water to flood out. There is a large list of possible reasons for an unwanted water intrusion. 

Gray Water is more damaging. This is water that has flowed in sinks, showers, washing machines and all other plumbing including toilets tanks. Gray water does not contain harmful pathogens, but it does hold food waste, chemical products, and absorbed particulates from the surroundings that can harbor bacteria. Some soaps and other personal care products also contain ingredients that can be toxic if ingested. 

Black water is the most dangerous. It includes overflow water from a toilet, backed up septic tanks or sewer lines, and degraded gray water. This water contains hazardous bacteria that are linked with raw sewage. If you detect black water flooding, keep yourself and your family out of contact with the water. If you must enter the flooded area, you should wear rubber gloves, safety goggles, and protect your feet with rubber boots or plastic bags.

Call the professionals from SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia! Whenever your household plumbing fails, no matter what the source of the water is, we can help. Rapid and safe water removal from your property will mitigate health concerns, water damage to personal possessions, furnishings, and building materials. We can also save you money by repairing and restoring rather than replacing salvageable property.

Our IICRC-certified and corporately trained technicians have the skills to return your water damaged home to pre loss condition "Like it never even happened." 

As leaders in the water damage industry, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. 

Call us 24/7 for help -  (334) 371-7378!

Avoid Delays When Dealing with Water Removal Situations

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

What You Should Know About Water Removal 

Whenever there is any water emergency in your home, knowing what to do can be a bit of a challenge. Damage from water can be detrimental to the household, so knowing the steps for proper water removal and when to call the professionals in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is critical.

We have trained staff at SERVPRO ready to help reduce the impact of water damage in your home from a leak or faulty appliance. Water mitigation should start as soon as possible once the loss takes place. Professionals in the field of water removal can get to work quickly so that your home is back to normal in a timely fashion.

Assessment

Water can make its way under your flooring and into the walls, seeping into the wood, drywall, and other areas where mold can develop. SERVPRO technicians use a variety of tools and techniques to help assess the situation and identify where the moisture is located throughout your home. We can come in with ADVANCED detectors and moisture meters, then take photographs of any of the areas that have been hit by water. This is a helpful step in the record-keeping process when working with your insurance company.

MITIGATION

Once a full assessment is done, we employ the use of specialized equipment to pull the water and moisture out of your home. Air movers can dry your flooring or walls very quickly, while high-power dehumidifiers can help to bring down the moisture levels throughout the home. 

Restoration

After we go through the steps of water mitigation, we can then get to work on the restoration phase. Our technicians can help to replace, repair, and restore any of the drywall, carpeting, and other elements that have been damaged by water during the emergency. 

When you need help with water removal, simply give our team a call at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378. We will gladly send a team out for an assessment to help you get started with the water mitigation process.

Common Causes of Water Damage in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Common Causes of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Water Damage

Three Common Causes Of Residential Water Damage

Unfortunately, water damage in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can strike a residential or commercial owner at any moment. When this time comes, the adverse impact on one's property can be overwhelming and ugly. In addition to compromising the structural integrity of your home or office, water damage can expose the property to toxins and promote the growth of bacteria like mold. However, learning more about the common causes of water damage can help you prevent it from transpiring on your property. With that idea in mind, refer to the quick reference guide below to help you prevent water damage from impacting your office or home setting:

 Leaks

 One of the main reasons that water damage transpires goes back to leaky plumbing. Unfortunately, leaks can lead to long-term, hidden damage when it rots through the drywall or timber of your property's pipes. The faster you find and fix a leak, the less damage you'll have to deal with. If you think there is a leak on your property, be sure to use your meter to gauge your water usage. Another way to screen for leaks is to check your water bill. If the bill is notably high, this is typically a sign that there may be a leak.

 Sewer Line Failure

 Sewer line failures are another common cause of water damage for property owners. In many cases, the residential property is connected to the area's sewer system through the main line. Deterioration and roots can do damage to the main line, and the result is excess water backing up into your property. If you find that your sewer is not functioning correctly, be sure to call a plumber who can troubleshoot to prevent the issue from becoming problematic.

 Burst Pipe

Another common cause of water damage is a burst pipe. When pipes deteriorate or freeze, they are susceptible to bursting. For this reason, it's important to have your pipes regularly inspected. Also, be sure that you check the areas that could start corroding. One of the factors that contributes to bursting pipes is high pressure. To reduce pressure, have a valve installed or simply replace the plumbing.

 Although recognizing common causes of water damage can help prevent it from transpiring on your property, there's still a chance that it could occur. If it does, you can trust the water damage remediation experts of SERVPRO to fix the problem quickly and correctly. Our IICRC-certified technicians use contemporary methodologies and cutting edge equipment to expedite each component of the remediation process. Moreover, we offer personalized care that will keep you calm and comfortable throughout the restoration process. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is strategically located to respond quickly to your flood and water emergency event. Call us today at (334)371-7378!

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia would like to provide you with some valuable knowledge in the event of a small fire.  If you are not in danger and feel that you can safely attempt to extinguish the fire, remember the acronym PASS to help you activate the extinguisher successfully.  

• Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher that prevents the handle from being pressed.
• Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.  
• Sweep foam from side to side at the base of the fire.

Watch for re-ignition and repeat the steps if necessary.  

It is a good idea to have fire extinguishers conveniently located on each floor of your home or business, as well as areas a fire may break out. Kitchens, Laundry rooms and mechanical rooms are common locations. As always remember safety first and if a fire is too large it is always best to leave the area and call 911 immediately.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

 As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is strategically located to respond quickly to your flood and water emergency event. When fire damage occurs in Greenville, Troy, Andalusia, or Luverne, we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today at (334) 371-7378!

Struggling to Revive Your Home After Fire Damage?

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Salvaging your Possessions after Fire Damage in your Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Home

Property fires are frequent but rarely catastrophic. Despite beginning in one area of the home, smoke from burning materials can quickly spread throughout. Smoke travels into clean air moving upwards. As it does so, residues in the smoke are deposited onto clean surfaces resulting in soiling. These residues can also cool and drop onto possessions in the form of soot. In the majority of cases, possessions suffer light soiling and can be restored effectively using professional cleaning methods.

Expensive possessions to replace after fire damage in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia properties could be your blinds and mattresses. SERVPRO works with a restore over replace method to ensure your replacement expenses are kept as low as possible. We achieve this by training our technicians in a wide variety of cleaning techniques that can restore items you may think are non-salvageable.

Different cleaning methods are a requirement when it comes to restoring possessions and using the wrong ones can exacerbate damages. A common concern for homeowners is upholstery, fabrics or mattresses which are porous. Porous materials can shrink using wet cleaning, absorb soot deeper into the fabric or cause color bleeding. SERVPRO uses a foam cleaning solution to ensure this does not happen thereby increasing the chances of restoring furnishings to pre loss conditions.

For materials that can sustain full immersion in cleaning SERVPRO can use advanced ultrasonic cleaning equipment. This method can be exceptionally useful in restoring blinds or other solid items. Ultrasonic immersion cleaners use soundwaves to agitate solvents. These soundwaves create bubbles which then actively remove soot from surfaces by creating high-pressure and temperature conditions around the item.

It is not always possible to salvage everything after a fire. However, by using the latest equipment and techniques, SERVPRO is confident we can provide an impressive restoration service that mitigates losses and prevents expensive replacements. Items that cannot be salvaged can be packed up and disposed of by your technician in line with federal and state laws.

To restore your possessions to pre loss conditions, contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia  at (334) 371-7378 today!

How to Avoid a Kitchen Fire

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Did you know that the majority of house fires begin in the kitchen and the most common cause is cooking?

The American Red Cross has steps everyone can follow to avoid a cooking fire:

1. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.
2. Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.
3. Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.
4. Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
5. Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.
6. Keep anything that can catch fire - pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.
7. Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
8. Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.
9. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.
10. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378 for all of your fire restoration needs!

Grilling Safety Tips

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Spring has arrived and summer is upon us, which means it's time to pull out those grills. 

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia would like to share some helpful grilling tips to prevent any fires from occurring while you're enjoying that quality time with family and friends.

Do:

1. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home.
2. Clean your grill regularly.
3. Make sure to check for gas leaks.
4. Keep decorations away from the grill.
5. Keep a spray bottle of water handy.
6. Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple of steps of your grill.

DON'T:

1. Turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed.
2. Leave a grill unattended.
3. Overload your grill with food.
4. Use a grill indoors

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378 for all of your fire restoration needs!

Fire Protection & Prevention for Your Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Business

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The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) offers simple steps you can follow to protect your employees and your business.

To help your small business stay fire-free, here are 14 considerations to promote fire protection and prevention. The fire safety checklist in OSHA’s Small Business Handbook recommends you ask yourself:

• Is your local fire department familiar with your facility, its location and specific hazards?
• If you have a fire alarm system, is it certified as required and tested annually?
• If you have interior standpipes and valves, are they inspected regularly?
• If you have outside private fire hydrants, are they flushed at least once a year and on a routine preventive maintenance schedule?
• Are fire doors and shutters in good operating condition?
• Are fire doors and shutters unobstructed and protected against obstructions, including their counterweights?
• Are fire door and shutter fusible links in place?
• Are automatic sprinkler system water control valves, air and water pressure checked periodically as required?
• Is the maintenance of automatic sprinkler systems assigned to responsible persons or to a sprinkler contractor?
• Are sprinkler heads protected by metal guards if exposed to potential physical damage?
• Is proper clearance maintained below sprinkler heads?
• Are portable fire extinguishers provided in adequate number and type and mounted in readily accessible locations?
• Are fire extinguishers recharged regularly with this noted on the inspection tag?
• Are employees periodically instructed in the use of fire extinguishers and fire protection procedures?

If you answered “no” to any of the questions, your small business could be at risk. To cultivate a safer workspace, we recommend you:

1. Have working fire extinguishers. And, make sure employees know how to work them. Portable fire extinguishers should be kept on every floor in easily accessible locations.
2. Have a functioning sprinkler system. Once it’s in place, follow the recommended maintenance schedule to ensure your sprinklers will work properly. Just determine who’s responsible (whether it’s an employee or contractor) and ensure they’re checking it on a regular basis. You’ll also want to protect all sprinkler heads with metal guards and give them plenty of clearance. After all, if they’re obscured, they might not make a difference.
3. Train your employees. Does your team know what to do in the event of a fire? If you have an evacuation plan and/or emergency protocol, be sure to educate them about it.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is always here to help with all fire, water, and mold issues pertaining to your commercial property. Call us at (334) 371-7378!

How SERVPRO Can Help After A Fire Damage at Your Commercial Property

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Were you a recent victim of a fire in your home or a fire in your business? Are you dealing with a horrible smoke smell? Are you trying to clean up smoke damage and soot damage? Do not try to deal with the commercial fire damage and the fire cleanup process by yourself. You should not even enter your home or your business before calling a fire restoration company. There may be safety hazards. The structure may cave in at any moment, and there may be broken shards of glass that can hurt you. The smoke smell can also be dangerous.

It is imperative that you call a professional restoration company as soon as you possibly can. They will do an assessment of your burnt home and take in all of the fire damage. They will come up with a plan of action for the restoration of your home and for dealing with the commercial fire damage.

The first thing the restoration company will do is board up the holes in your walls and your broken windows. You need to board up the holes before you take care of the water damage, or else more water may enter your home through those holes when it rains, thus undoing your work. A professional restoration company will use tarps or wood boards to board up those holes. The holes that need boarding up include the holes caused by the fire and the holes caused by the firefighters; they often make holes to make sure that the fire is not still burning behind the wall. Boarding up the holes is the first step of dealing with commercial fire damage.

After doing that, the fire damage restoration service will start removing the water from your home. Water that was used to put out the fire in your home or the fire in your business can cause serious damage. It can soak your furniture and your walls. You will need flood pumps to pump out the water. You will need special tools to dry out your walls, your furniture, and your carpets. A professional fire damage restoration service has the tools that are necessary to deal with commercial fire damage.

The next step in dealing with the fire damage is dealing with the smoke damage, also referred to as the soot damage. Your walls will likely be blackened. They will need to be cleaned from all the soot that covers them. They will be grayed by the smoke, and you will need to clean that up as well, or else the smoke smell will not go away. You will need to repaint your walls and ceiling so that you totally remove the trace of the soot damage and smoke damage. You should probably also add new wallpaper. The good news is that a fire cleanup company will do all of this and remove the smoke smell for you in a professional and timely manner.

The next step in dealing with the fire damage, after dealing with the smoke damage and soot damage, will be repairing the structure of your home. The fire cleanup company will need to repair the walls and the ceilings, as well as the floors, of your home. It is likely that they were badly damaged. They may not be safe anymore. The fire cleanup company can replace weakened walls and beams. They can turn your home or business into a beautiful place that is safe again after the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They can turn your home into a beautiful place that you love living in again.

The fire damage restoration company will deal with other aspects of fire damage as well. They will make sure your plumbing service is working after the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They will make sure that your electrical system is working. They will help you repair and replace any appliances that may have been damaged. They will make sure your sprinkler system is working and will be ready in case anything goes wrong. The fire damage restoration service will not leave until you are satisfied.

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378 for more information on our commercial fire damage restoration services.

Commercial Client Benefits

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Multi-family, Residential and Commercial Property Managers

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia we understand the value of a quick response and fast turnaround time when it comes to an emergency situation for a commercial and residential property. A quick response time can mean a reduction in the size and scope of the damage, and the difference between having a chance at saving business critical documents and equipment for the clients that are most important to you.

Commercial Client Benefits

Choosing SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia for your commercial damage mitigation accrues you benefits not limited to:

• Working with you to tailor the solution to you, priding ourselves in accurate and straightforward communication.

• SERVPRO is the leader in commercial damage mitigation.

• Every large commercial loss is supervised by a local commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

• The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia today at (334) 371-7378 for more information about our commercial client benefits!

Mold Growth Tips for Commercial Property Managers

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

If your home or commercial building recently flooded due to storm damage or some sort of plumbing issues, you're probably unsure of the next step. Not only are you worried about property damage from the water, but you also have to worry about mold in your home or business. Mold can affect indoor air quality, can cause significant property damage and can cause a foul smell that even the best deodorization techniques can't get rid of! Follow these tips if you're dealing with residential or commercial mold.

SAFETY FIRST

You just never really know what can be floating around in standing water that can hurt you. For example, electrical wiring. You don't want to endure an electrical shock. Once you know you can safely enter, PROTECT YOURSELF by wearing protective clothing, such as gloves and a face mask. 

Stop the Moisture

This is the very first step! Before the mold can be properly addressed, as much moisture as possible needs to be removed. If there is standing water, it can be dangerous to walk into your home or commercial property, so please make sure you can safely enter the building or structure.  

Hire a Professional

The best thing you can do is leave it to the experts. Rely on a team of professionals to help get your home or business back in tip-top shape. Experts can come in and assess the true extent of the damage and help ensure all of the molds are properly remediated. We promise it could save you a lot of time, money and headaches in the future.

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378 for more information!

Prepare for Power Outages Now!

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Power Outages

Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may:

• Disrupt communications, water, and transportation.
• Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATM's, banks, and other services.
• Cause food spoilage and water contamination.
• Prevent the use of medical devices.

PROTECT YOURSELF DURING A POWER OUTAGE:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.
• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
• If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.
• Check on neighbors.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A POWER OUTAGE THREATENS: 

Prepare NOW

• Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
• Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
• Plan for batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.
• Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.
• Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.
• Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.
• Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
• Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.

https://www.ready.gov/power-outages

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia today at (334) 371-7378 to start the preparation process!

Not All Storm Damage is Equal

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

During storm season in the Greenville/Troy/Andalusia area we see a wide range of storm types. We see heavy rains, flooding, tornadoes and then wrapping all of those into one hurricane! Any one of these storm types could easily cause damage to your home or business. These damages can keep us from feeling like our home is complete or keeping us from running a business that contributes to our livelihood. No matter what your scenario, it is important to know the different damages that a storm can cause. 

Wind Damage Storm damage sometimes includes severe wind damage. Roof damage in this situation may range from a missing roof due to strong winds that may loosen flashing. This can cause your roof shingles to be removed from your home or business causing leaks. Even a subtle roof leak can produce damp, moldy conditions. A SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia restoration expert can help property owners address storm damage and roof damage more effectively. 

Flooding Damage Heavy rains in the Greenville/Troy/Andalusia area can cause flooding all around the Butler, Crenshaw, Pike, and Covington County areas. Flooding may disrupt municipal water systems which call for experts to assess groundwater and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. Our SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia team can assist in your cleanup process after flood damage has occurred. 

 Lighting Damage When a storm occurs, many times it brings the loud sounds of thunder which mean lighting is striking. Your home or business may have objects attached to the building that can attract a lightning strike that can cause a fire. A bolt of lightning can reach temperatures of roughly 30,000 kelvins (53,540 degrees Fahrenheit). Lightning strikes, or discharges of massive charges of static electricity, cause about 2% of all fires. If this occurs in your home or business, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has the team to help handle the restoration of both the fire and smoke damage.

The SERVPRO Advantage

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SERVPRO is not just a local brand, but a national one.

Since its founding in 1967 SERVPRO has expanded to over 1,700 locations across the United States and Canada. Since then SERVPRO has also greatly expanded the array of services we offer. Since those services range from carpet cleaning and deodorization to large scale disaster recovery and with SERVPRO’s 1,700+ locations our collective knowledge and experience are one of the greatest assets SERVPRO has and we know how to use it. SERVPRO locations provide all kinds of support to each other ranging from equipment to people-power and technical advice. Sometimes we might run into an issue that we have not encountered before or possibly elements to a job that prevents our normal methods for jobs. This is when we have been able to rely on the knowledge base which our corporate office and other SERVPRO’s have accumulated. It does not matter what emergency you are facing. From Water Mitigation, Fire Restoration, or Mold Remediation. SERVPRO has the team and backing to handle it all. We are known for taking care of big problems and disasters, but we also are adept at helping people with issues you normally may not know the solution too. If you have an emergency which makes you think “I don’t even know who does this,” try giving us a call at (334) 371-7378!

Why Realtors Should Use SERVPRO

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Currently, we are in a time where the real estate market is hot. Houses are selling faster than they can be listed. We are seeing interest rates drop to an all-time low and what a better time to have an edge with a reputation for having quality listings whether it be a commercial or a residential listing. 

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia understands that you want to move a sale through quickly to get your commission. How your listing looks is everything to a potential buyer and we can assist in making that happen. It doesn’t matter what shape or situation your listing is in, the SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia team can assist you in many different ways to make this sale quick and the most profitable for you!  Our team can assist you in inspecting a crawl space/attic area for mold, water, or biohazard damage and fix this damage efficiently. Our team can even assist in estate sales in the case of hoarder cleanouts with optional inventory itemization and cleaning services. A SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia professional would be happy to attend your next sales meeting to discuss how to recognize the potential for mold and what to do in case of a fire or water emergency.

Give us a call at (334) 371-7378!

SERVPRO Offers Continuing Education Courses

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia offers Continuing Education courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters and Real Estate professionals. The Continuing Education courses provide you with information to better service your customers.

These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation. 

Here are some of the CE courses that are offered by SERVPRO:

• Property Fire Damage Restoration
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
• Restoring Contaminated Buildings
• Restorative Drying for Water Damage
• Cleaning and Restoring Smoke-Damaged Contents
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar
• Deodorization of Malodors
• Biohazard Cleanup
• Ethics

Lee Knowles, Owner of SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, is an approved instructor of these courses. Contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378 to schedule one for your office.   

This is just one more way SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is Here to Help!

Call SERVPRO for All Your Residential & Commercial Needs

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SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Butler, Pike, Crenshaw, and Covington Counties. 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 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (334) 371-7378!

Residential Services

Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

SERVPRO Can Help Save A Claim

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

One of things that make SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia so unique is how we work with our agents and customers to identify whether a claim should be filed.

SERVPRO has learned that insurance companies do not look favorable on zero paid claims. The insurance companies have found that people who turn in small claims are in effect using their policies as a home maintenance program.

We tell our agents to call us so we can put eyes on the situation. We can tell within a few minutes whether the claim will meet or exceed the customers deductible. This in turn helps the customer avoid higher rates, and the agent avoids a loss that in the long run could affect retention.

SERVPRO was recently asked by an agent to look at a customer‘s basement that had a sump pump malfunction. After reviewing the loss, the damage would not have met the insured's $2500 deductible. This insured avoided a claim and had SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia do the water mitigation. Both parties were happy and we have a very satisfied agent and customer.

Don't Wait for an Adjuster After a Residential Flood

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

No one wants to go through a home flood. Still, flood damage in the Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, is more common than you might think. As you probably know, the hours following such an event are critical. If you wait for an adjuster from your flood insurance company before taking action, you may inadvertently allow more damage to occur. Here are three important reasons you should not waste time following a flood.

1. Water Gets Everywhere

Because it is a liquid, water can seep into parts of your home you may not think about. Even worse, sealed portions of your basement, crawl space and walls often prevent air from naturally drying moisture. If you wait for your adjuster to arrive before beginning water remediation or damage repair, the processes may be both more expensive and more invasive.

2. Mold Grows Fast

Part of the reason for having comprehensive flood insurance is to cover the cost of repairing mold damage. Like water, mold can grow in hidden parts of your home. Remediation experts have the knowledge, skill, experience and tools to quickly locate and address mold and mildew. Rather than waiting for an adjuster to inspect your home, working with a reputable service in the days following a flood is often your best bet to restore your home’s comfort, appearance and value.

3. Adjusters Are Busy

If broken pipes or backed-up plumbing caused your flood, your adjuster may respond quickly. On the other hand, if your home was part of widespread flooding, the insurance company’s representative may have a full schedule. In fact, you may wait weeks before your adjuster arrives. Remember, acting quickly is important, and waiting may cause more damage.

As a diligent homeowner, you carry flood insurance. You also likely have a duty to mitigate damage caused by rising waters. Rather than waiting until your insurance adjuster can inspect your home, begin the remediation and restoration process as soon as you can. Give us a call at (334) 371-7378!

If Your Dishwasher Causes Damage in Your Home, You Need to Call SERVPRO

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage In Your Home Due To A Broken Dishwasher

What a surprise! You come into your kitchen in the morning to find water all over the floor. The dishwasher is leaking water from a broken water line, and there are gallons of water all over your home. The initial step is to shut the water off and limit damage to your floors and furniture as much as possible. If the line to your dishwasher does not have a water shutoff valve that you can turn off, turn off the main water line to the house. Mop up as much water as can.

Call SERVPRO for all of your water damages in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia to remove the water from your carpeting and limit the amount of water damage to your flooring and furniture. We can respond quickly and focus on removing all of the standing water from your kitchen and other areas of the home. Once the standing water is removed, our team can bring in appropriate equipment such as air flow dryers and dehumidifiers.

We can move furniture from the affected areas while the water is being removed. In some cases, it may be appropriate to place pads under the legs of your furniture to prevent rust marks from being left on carpeting and flooring materials. Our objective is to bring your home back to its original condition and prevent the growth of mold.

When water leaks from a dishwasher, the water may penetrate the floor under the dishwasher and surrounding cupboards. Our SERVPRO water removal experts also ensure that we get to these difficult areas. Moisture meters tell us where the moisture is and where we need to focus to remove all moisture. Repair of the dishwasher can also be arranged.

SERVPRO works closely with your insurance company. We provide all of the needed documentation to make your insurance claim as painless as possible.

We’re strategically located to respond quickly to your flood damaging event. Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378 for 24/7 service. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

What Does Water Damage Do To Hardwood Floors?

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Water Removal from Your Home Can Save Hardwood Floors!

A wide range of events can cause water to enter your home. Pipe leak, broken appliance hoses, or just forgetting to turn off the sink faucet, damage your home by the resulting spills. Water causes permanent damage to hardwood floors, which is why it is vital to contact the professionals for assistance. 

Hardwood floors can warp and buckle when exposed to moisture, causing potential safety hazards for homeowners. Our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified technicians can perform water removal services to help prevent these safety hazards from forming in your home. Although hardwood typically has high resistance to water damage, it can quickly be permanently damaged if exposed to water for extended periods. As it absorbs increasing amounts of water, hardwood experiences cupping, warping, and buckling in which necessitates replacement. Luckily, we train our SERVPRO techs in removing standing water from homes and assisting in drying hardwood floors.

We can use industrial grade wet vacs to remove spillage off of your floors, or if you experience large amounts of water flooding, we can use pumps to remove water. Hardwood floors have to be dried out before refinishing, so we can use air movers to pump air under and over your floor to reduce moisture content, which has the additional effect of inhibiting potential mold growth. Unfortunately, if your floors have a hardwood veneer, restoration requires scrapping and replacing due to the thin nature of veneers. 

Once your wood floors and the subflooring below are dried, they can be sanded and refinished to make them appear good as new! 

If your hardwood floors are at risk of being ruined by water, then call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378, and we can help get you on track to restoring your floors.

Storm Damage Tips from SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Damage Tips 

• Listen to the radio for advisories
• Do not venture outside until it’s declared safe 
• Stay away from downed power lines, standing water, and metal objects near downed wires
• Watch out for snakes and wild animals 
• If you smell gas, turn gas off at the meter 
• Avoid using candles or open flames indoors
• Operate generators outside
• Be careful when entering or leaving buildings with structural damage. It is best to avoid entering until the damage has been assessed 
• Once things have been properly assessed, make sure you have plenty of pictures of storm damage to your property 
• Contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia to come out for board up and get started on water mitigation. 
• SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will work with you and your insurance to get your property back to pre loss condition

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378!

Use Caution When Entering Your Home After a Flood

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Disasters can make a once-safe and secure home in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia unfit to live in and barely safe to enter. Water can hide hazards from view and make it difficult to stand or walk from one place to another. Flooding brings in foul water that is even more murky, making it even more dangerous.

Local residents who visit their homes after flood damage takes place might also notice that the smell is highly unpleasant. This smell comes mostly from the organic matter, so many homes require odor control measures after we finish restoring the structure and cleaning the contents of your house. We use highly effective but very safe methods when controlling smelly odors.

When we send out our technicians to mitigate flood damage, they arrive with the equipment needed to restore your home, as well as the necessary protective equipment to ensure their health and safety. Our gear is designed to ward off cuts and keep disease-causing pathogens off the skin. Our machinery and tools are also highly effective at performing the functions necessary to dry your home out and make it “Like it never even happened.”

As we work on your home's cleanup and restoration, we use different cleaning agents that help us remove the grime and other substances left on surfaces within your house. Any grooves or indentations in personal belongings can harbor silt and dirt, but we carefully remove it, so everything becomes clean and sanitary again. As long as your home's structure remains safe, we can carry this work out on-site, making things easier for you. By the time your family moves back in, we have gone over everything to ensure that your home becomes completely dry again and free of any silt, debris, or other filth.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia wants our neighbors and friends to stay safe, even in horrible situations. Flood damage can cause serious harm to any kind of property. We have the skills and tools to make your home safe for you and prevent damage from spreading further. Contact us at (334) 371-7378, so we can assist you in making your house a home again.

FAQ's About Wet Building Materials

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

When your home in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has flooded, a variety of elements in your home are likely to be affected. Though dealing with swelling wood, damp drywall and other issues may seem overwhelming, it can be useful to understand the impact water can have on building materials.

What Building Materials Are Affected by Flooding

Depending on the extent of the damage in your home, different materials can be affected. However, materials that are often affected by flooding include:

• Drywall
• Laminate
• Carpet
• Wood
  
  

What Types of Damage Occur?

Different materials have different reactions to water damage. The source of the water can also affect the type of damage that occurs, as clean water from a supply line will generally cause less damage than water that is contaminated with hazardous materials. Items such as carpet floors or drywall are likely to sustain mold damage in a short period of time, especially if the water is contaminated. Swelling wood can occur if water is left to sit for an extended period of time, and subfloors and laminate floors may become warped.

What Items Can Be Restored?

When you know what building materials can be restored, it’s easier to focus on repairing the broken water heater or making a water pipe repair. It is often possible for water damaged items to be restored, though it’s important for restoration to begin quickly after the damage has occurred. Wooden floors and other materials that are made out of real wood can generally be saved and restored. However, laminate floors and subfloors often need to be replaced. In order to ensure a timely, efficient restoration occurs, it can be helpful to employ a company that specializes in water damage repair.

Though flooding can result in swelling wood and mold growth, it’s helpful to know which issues are worth the stress and which issues can be fixed. Overall, knowing how flood water can affect your home can help you to feel more prepared for the process of restoration.

Water Damage in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Should Be Treated Now!

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

As much as we would like to avoid water leaks, broken pipes, rain coming down our roof or sudden and unexpected bursts of water, sometimes water damage is unavoidable. However, it’s not impossible to deal with. Water damage is something that, on average, happens approximately 14,000 times a day in the United States. SERVPRO is here to help with any and all of these losses. Water damages are serious and should be treated by a professional water damage team in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia.

   Dealing with water damage will depend on where the damage was done. If we’re talking about our roofs leaking water through our ceilings, the best way to deal with it is by restoring the roof and waterproofing it right away to avoid any future leaks. SERVPRO is here to help and provides excellent services in regard to water damage clean up, water remediation, and all other water removal needs.

   When it comes to indoor places inside your home getting flooded, make sure to call in SERVPRO to get all the water out and properly dry it and ventilate the area. We do this to avoid moisture and any kind of humidity that could set in and create mold. We are the leading providers for water damage clean up, water restoration, water damage, and water extraction.

   The same procedure applies for bathrooms and broken pipes or sinks. The most important thing to do is to get all the water out (and repair the leak immediately) and ventilate it right after. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can help you through any situation, from beginning to end! We step in right after water damage may occur and provide a certified water damage team to help through the tough times.

   Last, but not least, do not forget to also dry whatever got wet during the water damage. Furniture, clothes, books… These things can damage pretty quickly and even get mold too if you don’t take care of them as quickly as possible too. Ask SERVPRO about the different resources we have available to clean furniture, clothing, or even save damaged or wet documents! All this in addition to our premier water damage team, water cleanup skills, and water remediation work in the Greenville/Troy/Andalusia area.

Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today -

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Here To Help

Best Practices in the Event of a Water Damage

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can cause a tremendous amount of stress and heartache when it happens in your home, short term and long term. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

These tips can help you in the event of a flood in your home.

1. Turn the water off. If a pipe has busted in your home, make sure to turn off the main water line. If you can’t determine where the water is coming from, call an expert in your area.
2. Turn off the power. In the event of a large water loss in your home, cut off the power.
3. Personal Safety is a priority. Don’t plug in or use any electrical appliances around standing water or wet flooring.
4. Take action to remove water. Use a mop or towels to get up as much water as you can quickly, to help minimize water damage to your home and contents.
5. Salvage personal contents. Remove furniture and belongings to a dry area.

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. 

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia 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 at  334-371-7378

Reliable Commercial Water Damage Restoration Company

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Whether office, warehouse, restaurant, school, or other commercial building, the urgency to get back to business after a water damage is stressful. The fastest way to servicing your customers and assuring your employees of their job security is to hire a reliable commercial water damage restoration company. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia understands the first critical steps to water damage restoration is responding quickly. The longer your business is exposed to excess moisture, the more extensive the water damage will be. Water degrades furniture, weakens structures, and can permanently damage electrical items such as computers and printers. Calling on a water damage restoration company with a fast response time such as  SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will give you the best chances of saving the things you need to service your customers. Our technicians will arrive at your business quickly, ready to assess the damage with meters detecting moisture levels. If necessary, standing water will be removed using powerful pumps mounted on SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia's familiar bright green vans. Water can cause warping of wood and cause carpeting to deteriorate. The possibility of floors being salvaged is increased when water is extracted in less than 24 hours from primary exposure, and then through quick and efficient drying.

When you need a reliable commercial water damage restoration company, call on SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia. Faster to any size disaster, we here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Call us at 334-371-7378!

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Can Guide You Through a Water Damage

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Having children can mean many messes in your home, including ones that leave you needing water cleanup services. However, sometimes the messes are not the kind that needs urgent help. Sometimes, you can afford to clean them yourself, so long as you have a little guidance that can help you prevent further damages from occurring.

Imagine a situation where you discover an overflowed bathtub and consider calling for local Greenville/Troy/Andalusia water cleanup services. However, let's say the finances are a little tight this month, and you can't really afford the service. That is okay because you can still get the help you need and clean up the water yourself.

Here at SERVPRO, we're dedicated to helping you. Even if you can't afford to call us, we can still offer you help in the way of guiding you through a DIY cleanup. In a situation with a spill that you can address immediately, it shouldn't be an issue for you to clean up the water yourself, so long as you have a few tools. However, if the water has been sitting for a significant period of time, you must reach out for professional help, as water damage could have already set in.

The first step to cleaning up the spilled water is to get out your mops and some towels, anything absorbent that can pick up the excess water from your floor. Our SERVPRO techs would use wet/dry vacuums to clean up standing liquid. However, because it is not a practical device for the average person to own, we recommend using what you have.

Once you are sure all of the water is cleaned up, you may think the job is done. However, it is wise to try and ensure that no excess moisture can linger behind. If you have a space heater and a dehumidifier, put them both inside of your bathroom overnight and let them run. They can help ensure that any excess moisture evaporates and can prevent further damages from occurring. If in the next week or so, you notice any signs of water damage, you should reach out to SERVPRO immediately.

If your home needs professional water damage remediation services, get help immediately. Get in contact with SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia by dialing (334) 371-7378. Day or night, we're here for you.

Versatile Approaches to Fire Damage and Odor Control for Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Residents

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

One of the lasting impacts of a fire in your property is the odor. Evacuating your property in the dead of night is stressful enough; however, taking a comprehensive approach to odor control can be even more challenging. Odor causing particles can suspend in the air, enter surfaces as well as fabrics, and your heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Numerous areas can cause the offending odor while locating and neutralizing each one can be unnecessarily time-consuming.

Our technicians specialize in fire damage and odor control here in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia. Since odors come from numerous sources, our approach is to use various methods to neutralize them. We may never fully understand which way is effective at controlling odor. However, by following SERVPRO best practices and industry-leading training, we can ensure that the scent no longer remains a problem for you.

Odor control tends to be the last aspect of restoration service. There is little point in applying methods or chemicals to an area that contains odor-causing materials. Charring on contents or structure produces unpleasant smells. Similarly, moisture that we use during the restoration process can make smells more noticeable to the human nose. By prioritizing cleaning, removing debris, and drying the structure, SERVPRO takes the first step toward bringing unpleasant odors back under control.

Our approach to lingering smells is to try and replicate the dispersal of the odor. In a fire, smells typically come from smoke, which billows out from the source of combustion at high pressure and enters small cracks or crevices, like light fittings, in the home. To combat this, SERVPRO can use water-based misting equipment, which produces a smoke-like vapor. These vapors behave in a similar way to smoke, reaching, and neutralizing areas where smoke resides.

Sometimes fabrics or furnishings can absorb soots as well as smoke. To replicate this effect, we can lightly spray furnishing using a hand-held pressure pump. These ensure an equal dispersal of deodorant solvents which absorb into fabrics and other porous materials. By testing on a small area first, we can ensure that these chemicals do not harm the color or fabric of your furnishings.

Odor control needs to be versatile to be effective. We offer many other options for odor control. Contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378.

Do You Have a Fire Escape Plan?

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

It reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan. 

• Draw a map of your home with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

via https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Preparedness/Escape-planning

Have you contacted your local fire department? See how you can get involved with them and your community to prevent house fires. Sometimes they will have events or give out smoke detectors for your home. Don't think this could never happen to you because it easily could. We don't have control over everything in our homes! Be safe and have a plan!

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378 for all your fire damage needs!

Limit Storm Damage with a Water Tight Building

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Water has a way of finding entry into a commercial building during storms and floods. Old roofs, cracked windows and faulty siding are just some of the ways moisture can infiltrate a property and cause rain damage. Too much moisture or high humidity in a building can cause structural weakness over time and promote the growth of mold. The presence of mold affects indoor air quality and can cause unpleasant odors in a building. There are many ways to address this issue by scheduling preventative maintenance, conducting regular inspections of the roofing system and fixing any leaks. Making sure your commercial building in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is sealed against moisture is a great way to protect your investment and its contents.

The Damaging Effects of Water

Water is a corrosive element and can break down wood and fabrics and damage electronics. Its presence in the form of high humidity provides a fertile ground for black mold to proliferate. During a heavy downpour, it's important that your building has all of the elements in place to keep out moisture. A building envelope, which consists of your roofing system and grade wall systems, does the following:

• Protects against the intrusion of rain, hail, snow and ice
• Funnels water away through the use of drains
• Provides weather protection and temperature control features

Rain damage poses a serious threat to the longevity of your building. In fact, floods are one of the most common disasters to impact a business. They can have devastating effects and can even cause a lengthy business disruption. Working with a storm remediation team in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, puts your company in a strong position to handle a disaster.

The best way to reduce rain damage to your building is to be prepared. Many buildings have cracks in the walls and other weaknesses that allow rain to get to areas where it doesn't belong. Shoring up these areas before a storm strikes is good business.

How to Prepare Your Business for the Windy Season

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you have worked in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, for any length of time, you are probably familiar with the possibility of hurricane damage during storm season. While you certainly hope your building won’t sustain any devastating storm damage, there are ways to minimize the potential effects of the windy season on your commercial property.

Protect Important Information

Files and paper documents are probably the most vulnerable items at risk when your building sustains flood damage. There are many important documents you don’t want to lose, including;

• Accounting and tax records
• Payroll information
• Vital business contacts
• Insurance papers
• Legal documents
  
  

To preserve your information, consider storing these documents in waterproof containers. Even better, store backup copies in a remote location so that hurricane damage doesn’t result in their irreparable loss if they cannot be salvaged during professional storm cleanup.

Have an Emergency Plan

To prepare for hurricane season, devise a plan so that everyone knows where to go when the storm hits and what their responsibilities are. Decide who is going to be in charge of duties such as turning off the utilities right before the storm arrives and taking a head count once you reach the designated safe space. Stock the safety area with enough supplies to sustain all the people in your building for a few days, just in case you get stranded there. These items include a first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, shelf-stable food items, bottled water, blankets and tool kits.

It is also a good idea to make sure the outside of your building is prepared to weather the storm. Have your roof inspected before storm season begins so that you can have the repairs needed to make it stronger. Install shutters on your windows to protect them from debris blown about by high winds. Trim trees and bushes to remove any loose limbs that may get thrown against your building during a storm.

The need for flood cleanup may be inevitable after a storm. You can lower your risk of major hurricane damage, however, if you plan ahead.

Restoration Work after Storm Damage in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes unexpected things happen to our homes. One of these can be a tree falling thru our roof in the middle of the night due to a storm. When this happens, our team is available 24/7 to respond.

One of the major concerns is secondary damage such as rain. If a tree falls through the roof and leaves a big opening you could be looking at a very expensive restoration project versus the initial damage. It is important to get a temporary cover on the roof or side of the house that is damaged.

It is important to have adequate manpower to extract the water immediately but also make sure that additional water does not come in. Once the water is extracted, the drying process can begin. We have large commercial desiccant dehumidifiers designed for climate control in large facilities. 

If you have any questions about Large Loss capabilities, contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378 24 hours a day.

Do You Have Mold in Your Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Commercial Property?

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Mold is all around us in our environment. You can’t escape it!

Just add water and give it a few days, to encourage the mold to grow.

We get a lot of calls at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia concerning mold in commercial buildings. Don’t panic!

We can address these concerns, by finding out:

• Where is the source of moisture?
• What needs to be fixed to stop the moisture from entering the workplace?
• Are any employees experiencing any health effects from this?

If the answer is “Yes” to the Health Issues question, we immediately refer the caller to an Industrial Hygienist for Indoor Air Quality and Mold testing.  

We are able to remediate the mold, not test the mold.

An Industrial Hygienist is able to give the business owner more information through 1.) a full site visual inspection, 2.) collection and testing cultured air and surface samples, and 3.) measuring the moisture levels in the building. Their findings and recommendations are included in a report, or protocol, which is given to the customer.

• The next step is for the commercial customer to send us the protocol.
• We can then do an assessment at the business site.
• Only then, can we give a price range, and scope of work, keeping in mind that there may be unknowns.

For more information on our Mold Remediation Process, click here.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is available for Emergency Service 24/7. Call us for Mold Remediation at (334) 371-7378.

Getting Back to Work: Commercial Water Damage Restoration

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage restoration not only restores a building. It restores jobs and income to the people employed there, products or services to customers, and a healthy environment for everyone who utilizes the structure. If it’s not done right, or on time, the ultimate result can be the closing of a facility, relocation elsewhere, and severe impact to a private business or public organization’s bottom line. Because the scope of water damage in commercial settings is frequently wider and more extreme than in a residential scenario, water damage remediation specialists with experience specific to commercial buildings are positioned to provide effective emergency service when the need arises.

Here’s a typical protocol utilized in commercial water damage restoration:

• All areas contacted with water are inventoried, including affected building materials and furniture. Any wet carpet must be located and identified.
• Wet ceiling tiles may be removed and discarded after the event. Ceiling tiles usually are not salvageable.
• A moisture meter should be utilized to check for water-damaged drywall. Disinfection and mold control techniques may need to be initiated.
• Wet electrical components are assumed to be hazardous. A qualified maintenance technician or electrician should cut off power to affected areas. Inspection by a building inspector or electrician is required to determine the need to replace wet wiring, circuit breakers, outlets and light fixtures.
• Upholstered furniture wet by flood water, roof leaks, or sewage should be discarded. Furniture contacted by drinking water can be air-dried if done within 24 hours. Laminate or hardwood furniture can be cleaned with a disinfectant solution and reused; particle board furniture may be discarded.
• Carpets contaminated by sewage must be disposed of. Carpets wet by drinking water or rain water through roof leaks may have water extracted and then be sterilized.

For experienced commercial water damage restoration, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378.

When Fire & Water Take Control, We Take It Back!

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Our number one goal is returning damaged areas and items to pre loss condition, doing all we can to make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is dedicated to restoring both the property and the lives of our customers in our area.

Like it never caught fire, was never dirty, like it never overflowed, like it never spilled, whatever the case our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

Your Can Trust SERVPRO

Our franchise has been helping homeowners in the Greenville/Troy/Andalusia area for many years. There are now over 1700 franchises just like us, nationwide. More locations means faster response. We can be on-site in most cases in under 1.5 hours.

24 Hour Emergency Service

In our business you need us fast. The sooner SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia arrives, the better chance we can reduce the damage, and prevent secondary damage from occurring. Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 

Call us at (334) 371-7378!

Contents Cleaning & Restoration Saves Money

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Following a fire damage, one of the toughest recovery challenges facing a property owner or manager is dealing with fire, smoke and soot-and likely water-damaged contents. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia professionals can help alleviate some of the stress involved and, in the process, help lower recovery costs by cleaning and restoring contents quickly and correctly.
Traditionally, replacement costs for contents are more expensive than cleanup and restoration. Many contractors simply resort to the “tear out the throw out” approach, which ultimately increases recovery costs. By carefully pretesting contents for restorability, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can quickly help a property owner determine what to restore and what needs to be replaced.
Another advantage to utilizing your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional is Contents Claim Inventory Service. Utilizing CCIS, technicians can sort contents into three categories: salvageable, non-salvageable and questionable. An electronic inventory of every item allows a property owner to efficiently handle contents decisions. Should items need to be moved out while your facility undergoes restoration, the CCIS inventory serves as a useful tracking tool for content management and movement.
In addition, should a fire damage exceed your commercial insurance deductible limit, the CCIS inventory can make filing and settling contents claims a less stressful and time consuming process.
Contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at 334-371-7378 to discuss a detailed preloss inventory of your facility’s contents before a disaster strikes.

Benefits of Choosing a National Brand

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the only mitigation company with national advertising. You know us and trust us. Effective results are the results of consistent training and execution.

Since 1967, SERVPRO Industries, Inc. has been redefining and improving the mitigation and restoration industries. In 1992, the SERVPRO National Training Center was developed specifically to teach restoration and mitigations skills to insurance industry employees, as well as Franchise owners. SERVPRO has been a state –approved Continuing Education Course Location and an IICRC-approved school since 1997. In May of 2005, SERVPRO moved to a new corporate location with an innovative and much larger Training Center.

SERVPRO Industries, Inc. is one of nine organizations qualified to offer the Applied Structural Drying course. The Applied Structural Drying course covers the effective, efficient, and timely drying of water-damaged structures and contents, using comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, in order to facilitate appropriate decision-making within a restorative drying environment. Students will experience live, hands-on use of instruments, extraction systems, drying equipment, and chemistry use in an actual flooded building situation.

Why is IICRC Certification Important?

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

The standards for the restoration industry are set by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration. A professional who holds this certification is prepared to use cutting-edge techniques and offer the highest standard of service. There are several reasons that the Preferred Vendors of insurance companies maintain IICRC credentials.

Industry-Wide Standards

The standards of this certifying agency are developed and maintained by leading restoration professionals. This organization collaborates with the American National Standards Institute and establishes its own standards:

• ANSI
• BSR
• IICRC
  
  

ANSI and BSR standards apply to particular types of restoration, whereas Institute certification is earned by restoration professionals. In order to become certified, a service provider must demonstrate their knowledge of and ability to adhere to best practices for mitigation and restoration.

Up-To-Date Methods

The Institute regularly updates standards and offers new certifications. Even after a professional earns a certification, he or she must still obtain 14 credit hours of continuing education every four years. This requirement ensures that the certifications issued by this agency remain current based on industry standards. Any professional who holds a restoration or mitigation certificate should be capable of meeting or exceeding the expectations of clients and insurers.

Preferred By Insurers

Most mitigation and restoration companies that insurance companies consider Preferred Vendors maintain certification. In order to be considered certified, a company or franchise must employ at least one credentialed technician. SERVPRO is an approved training school, and new franchise owners and employees are encouraged to obtain and maintain certification. Insurers can trust that certified restoration professionals will recommend the best methods for damage mitigation and restoration.

Clients and insurers should make sure that the service they hire to restore damage is certified by the IICRC. This certification indicates that professionals are trained in the most effective methods. 

Does Your Business Have an ERP?

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Does your business have an emergency plan?

Wouldn’t it have been a terrible holiday break if you got a call that your bathroom sink pipe had busted and there’s water actively flowing into your business? Would you have been able to tell them over the phone where the shut-off valve is? If the answer to that is no, read further.

Three reasons an Emergency Readiness Program is an asset to your company:

1. It speeds up the mitigation and recovery process
2. It stores information needed in the event of an emergency
3.  It makes getting help quicker and easier

How to get one?

GIVE US A CALL! You can download the app but you will need an agent to get it filled out and active. So give us a call today for your FREE ERP!

Download the App today on your smartphone (SERVPRO.com/ready)

(334) 371-7378

SERVPRO Focuses on Your Safety

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Blood, bodily fluids, and other biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. When a site in your home or business has been contaminated, how do you make it safe again? Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia for top-notch biohazard cleanup and restoration services.

Avoiding Health Risks
Is it necessary to seek professional assistance in cleaning up a location impacted by crime, trauma or death? With the risks posed by blood-borne pathogens and dangerous communicable diseases, cleaning a scene contaminated with biohazards like blood is a perilous undertaking for anyone who lacks the proper training and equipment. It is unpleasant to think about, but blood and bodily fluids are prone to splattering so that minute amounts can affect a wide area. The air at these scenes can be hazardous since small particles can become airborne if dried material is disturbed. Anything removed from the scene must also be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the contamination. Ultimately, the best way to make sure that a place is once again safe is to use a professional organization like SERVPRO that is experienced in biohazard restoration.

Preventing Legal Repercussions
As if the health risks created by biohazards are not dire enough, failure to have a contaminated space properly cleaned can also have serious legal consequences. There are regulations and laws regarding how biohazards are handled that must be followed. These rules are designed to safeguard everyone, and ignorance is not considered an acceptable excuse for disregarding them. Individuals and businesses that do not follow these rules may find themselves facing hefty fines. They might even be held liable if someone else is injured by their actions. Using a professional team that understands what is required to comply with the various rules and regulations governing biohazards in your area can shield you from both health risks and legal issues.

Focusing on Your Safety
At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we are committed to the well-being of our customers. Offering emergency services 24 hours a day, we will rapidly respond whenever you request our assistance. Our technicians follow the protocols established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, so you can be confident that they have the expertise and training to remove all biohazards and dispose of them properly. We use specialized equipment that allows us to detect the smallest trace of a biohazard, and we do not stop until your scene is thoroughly sanitized. As biohazard restoration professionals, we can often salvage items that others might have to discard, and we ensure that any material that does need to be removed from your location is disposed of appropriately.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, we are ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact us now to discover more about our biohazard restoration services and secure our help. 

(334) 371-7378.

The Trouble with DIY Restoration

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Greenville, Troy, and Andalusia residents take pride in their homes and properties. When disaster strikes or when you have a substantial mess to clean up, it is a common belief to roll up your sleeves and get to work to fix the problem as best as you can on your own. The trouble with DIY restoration for water incidents is that many homeowners don't get all of the problem addressed, allowing for continued damage.

While a homeowner might see a water damage situation in their residence as little more than a reason to break out the mop and run some fans, there is much more to water damage restoration. Ensuring that the area gets thoroughly dried requires specialized equipment and detection tools. Failure to get your home below moisture standards for a house can lead to worsening conditions that pose a threat to the structure, as well as your family.

One of the reasons that you might consider professional restoration like SERVPRO provides is our ability to respond to your situation rapidly. Even in smaller scale water incidents, fast response time is critical to mitigating loss and to get to work quickly on removing the water and drying up the affected areas.

Another reason that a homeowner should think about our SERVPRO team is our industry-leading equipment, expertise, and unique training. These facts help us quickly assess the full scope of the damage that affects your home and choose the most efficient and practical approach to eliminating the moisture and preserving the construction materials that have gotten saturated by the incident.

As much as you might be among the homeowners that seek to do things for themselves when something happens to their home, situations like water damages require professionals with the right training and equipment to ensure that the job gets done adequately. Our SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia water damage technicians are available 24/7 for any need you might have by calling (334) 371-7378.

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today -

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia 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.

Preparing for Hurricane Season

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricanes can shatter lives as well as damage property. Being prepared can help you, your family or your business minimize the impact of the storm. The best way time to start is before the threat is imminent. Here's what you need to know.

Don't wait until a hurricane watch is issued, because it may already be too late to take certain precautions. Reduce property damage and get through any hurricane emergency with less stress by preparing before the season begins.

1. Plan your evacuation route well ahead of time

If you live on the coast or in a mobile home, you may have to evacuate in the event of a major storm.

While you'll no doubt get instructions from the local government, it's wise to create your evacuation plan well before a disaster strikes. This way, you can know ahead of time about the nearest shelters, take your pets into account in your plan, make sure to take important papers and make a trial run.

2. Keep non-perishable emergency supplies on hand

When a hurricane warning is issued, people run for the stores. As much as possible, get ahead of the rush having the following on hand:

• Extra batteries
• Candles or lamps with fuel
• Matches (keep these dry)
• Materials and tools for emergency home repairs–such as heavy plastic sheeting, plywood, a hammer, etc.
• Prescription drugs

• A three-day supply of drinking water
• Food that you don’t have to refrigerate or cook
• First aid supplies
• A portable NOAA weather radio
• A wrench and other basic tools
• A flashlight

If you need to evacuate, you'll bring these supplies with you. As expiration dates approach (for example, food or batteries), use the items and replenish your emergency stash.

3. Take an inventory of your personal property

Creating a home inventory will help ensure that you have purchased enough insurance to replace your personal possessions. It can also speed the claims process, substantiate losses for income tax purposes and is helpful should you need to apply for disaster aid. In the event you need to evacuate, be sure your home inventory is among the important documents you take with you.

4. Review your insurance policies

This hurricane season insurance checklist can help you to understand your coverage and whether it’s adequate to repair or rebuild your home, if necessary, and to replace your belongings

Keep in mind that your homeowners insurance covers the cost of temporary repairs for hurricane damage, as well as reasonable additional living expenses (ALE) over and above your normal living expenses if you have to relocate (such as the extra expense of getting to work or to school if your temporary home is in a different community).

However, your homeowners policy doesn’t cover flood damage, so you may want to consider looking into flood insurance. If you live by the coast, you may also need a separate policy for protection against wind and wind-blown water damage.

If you have questions about what your current policy will cover or need to augment your current coverage, contact your insurance professional.

5. Take steps to protect your home

Hurricane force winds can turn landscaping materials into missiles that can break windows and doors and much of the property damage associated with hurricanes occurs after the windstorm when rain enters structures through broken windows, doors and openings in the roof.

While retrofitting your home to protect against these possibilities is undoubtedly an expense, you can do it in stages.

• Replace gravel or rock landscaping materials with shredded bark, which is lighter and won't cause as much harm.

• Cut weak branches and trees that could fall on your house and keep shrubbery trimmed.

• Install storm shutters to protect your windows from breakage. Alternately, fit plywood panels to your windows, which can be nailed to window frames when a storm approaches.

• Make sure exterior doors are hurricane proof and have at least three hinges and a deadbolt lock that is at least one-inch long.

• Sliding glass doors should be made of tempered glass and, during a storm, covered with shutters or plywood. These types of doors are more vulnerable to wind damage than most other doors.

• Replace old garage doors and tracks with a door that is approved for both wind pressure and impact protection. Wind coming into your home through an opening this large poses grave problems for the rest of your home—especially your roof.

• Seal the outside wall openings such as vents, outdoor electrical outlets, garden hose bibs and locations where cables or pipes go through the wall. Use a high quality urethane-based caulk to prevent water penetration.

• If you live in a mobile home make sure you know how to secure it against high winds and be sure to review your mobile home insurance policy.

• If you have a boat on a trailer, know how to anchor the trailer to the ground or house—and review your boat insurance policy.

6. Take steps to protect your business

Hurricanes take a toll on businesses, too so be prepared.

• Create an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). In the event of a hurricane this will help your business quickly recover.

• Keep contact information for employees, suppliers and vendors current so you can check on their well being and communicate next steps for resuming normal business operations.

• Review your business insurance policies in order to understand what's covered.

For more information please check out this article. https://www.iii.org/article/preparing-hurricane

Stay Alert During Hurricane Season

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Our team here at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia have taken the time to research and bring you ways to stay alert during this hurricane season. These hurricane can bring in numerous losses. Being aware of what is going on may not keep you from having a loss but to be better prepared when it happens. 

• Have a storm radio on hand so that you can still listen to updates even if electricity and the cell towers go down.

Sign up for text alerts to be updated regularly on your phone. 

Many communities have text/email systems in place that will alert you of emergency situations, including severe weather like hurricanes. Do an internet search of your town, city, and county with the word “alerts” to find out if these measures are available in your area.

• If you're a student, your college or university likely has an alert system you can sign up for.
• Some communities will send out severe weather warnings even if you don’t sign up for them. For instance, governments can use Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) to push notifications to WEA-enabled devices and they may update you on emergency weather conditions. But it’s always a good idea to sign up and make sure you’re covered.

Use an app or website to constantly monitor the storm's progress. 

With a weather app or website that has radar, you can watch the storm's progress in real time as it approaches. Plus, you should get weather service alerts for your area, as long as you allow the app or website to use your location.

• For instance, you can look at the projected path of the storm at http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/nhc_storms.shtml.
• Keep in mind that cell towers may go down as the storm gets closer.

Water Damage Loss Recovery

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can originate from a variety of sources, and damages may be widespread. Broken pipes, sewage backup, leaks from appliances, bad weather, and roof leakage are all common sources of water damage. Even an upstairs neighbor’s leaky washing machine can cause water damage and mold growth in your home. Water can damage your personal property and the contents of your home, leaving you with extensive damage to mitigate. Such damages may include destruction of wood floors, tiles, wooden frames, drywall, or sub-flooring, and these damages can sometimes be difficult to detect before they become extensive.

Water-related disasters can strike at any time, often suddenly or unexpectedly. Due to the nature of water damage, the effects usually take some amount of time to show up. Issues like separation and splitting of wood and other types of finishes or furnishings may not show up until much later, and mold growth may not be initially apparent.

Get Assistance Right Away!

Proper emergency response is critical in the first 24 hours following a water loss. Damaged items should be removed immediately, and the process of drying out those items should begin as soon as possible. Wet carpet needs to be completely pulled in order to eliminate conditions that could lead to mold growth or further damage. Simply using a blower to dry carpet from an uplifted corner isn’t enough; often, the padding may also be soaked and in need of replacement.  

How water loss is handled in these first moments after the damage appears is a critical factor that can have a big impact on the outcome of your property damage claim, so it’s imperative to have an experienced and properly trained professional by your side to guide you through the steps.

Since water losses are the most frequent type of insurance losses, and that's why SERVPRO has paired with numerous insurance companies across the U.S. to help the process run more efficiently.  At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we can help you navigate the complex and highly-technical world of water damage losses and ensure you are completely taken care of after your loss.

Contact us about your water damage loss recovery today. (334) 371-7378

Red Cross Helps With Flooding

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Floods are among the most frequent and costly natural disasters. Flooding often occurs following a hurricane, thawing snow, or several days of sustained rain. Flash floods occur suddenly, due to rapidly rising water along a stream or low-lying area. Learn what to do to keep your loved ones safe!

Red Cross has put together a checklist to help you with flooding. This includes before the flood, during and even after the flood. 

They have a simple website that is easy for navigation and can help you find shelters and even apps to keep you update on everything that is going on in your area. Once all of the rain has stopped and the water in your home or business has subsided you can call us here at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia to come in and evaluate the situation and get you back in to your home in a timely manner.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/flood.html

Let's Minimize Your Down Time

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

One of the biggest challenges a business faces when dealing with an unfortunate structural damage issue is business interruption.  How does the office continuing operating? What happens to inventory on-hand and supply orders? Is the business able to continue servicing customers?  These concerns are stressful not only for owners and executives, but also the employees counting on their jobs. At SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia it is our primary focus to minimize or eliminate business interruption issues so that our clients are able to continue their normal business functions for their clients and staff.  Beside cleaning or drying services, SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is able to assist with furniture and equipment relocation, computer and machinery restoration, document restoration and long term storage if needed. When damage affects your business, trust  SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia to keep your operations running and to make your loss “Like it never even happened.”

How about your sink?

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

It's the busiest room in the house. If home is where the heart is then your heart is really in the kitchen because its the heart of any home.

We take running water for granted and we take perfectly functioning plumbing for granted almost all of the time. Do you know when you think about plumbing? When it's no longer functioning perfectly.

The kitchen sink get used throughout the day and we see a lot of failures with the kitchen sink. Remember to treat you faucet with respect and never over pack the cabinet under the sink with cleaners, garbage pails or dish racks. These items can knock into your plumbing and create a leak.

We think about this stuff because we live it everyday. A perfectly functioning kitchen sink is not appreciated enough, but the moment it's no longer perfect you can call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia at (334) 371-7378 to dry it up.  

Fire Content Restoration

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

From furniture to antiques to artwork and appliances, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will treat your treasures with the care they deserve. While some items can be cleaned on-site, in many cases we'll need to inventory, pack out and transport the contents of your property to our state-of-the-art facility to ensure the best care possible.

Key Issues

• Contents may need to be cleaned off-site
• Contents inventory
• Determine replacement and restoration
• Pack
• Ozone treatment
• Cleaning
• Odor removal
• Secure
• Return

Contents Inventory

• We arrive on-site and inventory all of your personal belongings.
• We carefully pack all salvageable items to transport to our secure warehouse and cleaning facility.
• Non-salvageable contents are inventoried and discarded.

Contents Valuation

We have trained professionals to help you establish replacement values versus restoration costs. We are also available for pricing of non-salvageable inventory items.

Restoration

• Thorough cleaning
• Proper handling of all electronics
• Photographs and artwork
• Fabrics
• Clothes
• Memorabilia
• Antiques
• Soft goods
• Dry Cleaning
• Appliances
• Surfaces
• Odor Removal

Fire Safety Tips

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has browsed the internet looking for tips to help our clients better prepare for a fire in their homes. We found this list of tips from the American Red Cross website. We hope they help. If you have any questions call our office at (334) 371-7378

1.  Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
2. Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.
3. Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.
4. If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.
5. We partner with the American Red Cross and also our local fire departments so fire prevention is VERY important to us! These tips are from REDCROSS.ORG

What to do in the Event of a Thunderstorm

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has been involved in emergency storm assistance for many years now and during that time has actively worked with local insurance companies and emergency management teams to assist people in extremely difficult and dangerous situations.  With severe weather season fast approaching our area, it is important to be reminded of some basic safety tips in order to stay prepared and alert during our ever changing weather patterns.

From the Alabama Division of Emergency Management:

“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!”

• Before a thunderstorm arrives, know the key warning signs:  dark clouds, lightning, and thunder
• Get informed with a weather radio or by watching the news
• Have an emergency kit on hand that includes flashlights, battery operated weather radio, first aid kit, food and water, and essential medicines
• Stay inside and sheltered.  If outside, move indoors or into a vehicle.  Get out of water immediately. If trapped outside, make yourself as small as possible in a low lying area
• Make sure to wait at least 30 minutes after the storm has passed before going outside

In addition, in order to be prepared for a tornado:

• Have a family tornado plan in place and practice a family tornado drill
• Watch for weather signs like dark greenish skies, large hail, dark low clouds and load roaring sounds
• Put as many walls and floors between you and the tornado as possible
• Flying debris is the greatest danger during a tornado
• If in a mobile home – GET OUT!  Find a neighbor, underground shelter, or permanent structure for safety

As a trusted leader in emergency response for our area, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is committed to helping our community be prepared for weather emergencies.  As a 24 hour emergency response partner, SERVPRO is dedicated to providing immediate and professional services to you and your family should the need arise during this severe weather season.

We are Local!

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to water damage look no further than your LOCAL SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia.

Why SERVPRO? Because, we are your neighbors!

We service the local area and are not an out-of-town restoration company. We can get to you faster, you probably have passed our building in Greenville, and you can trust us to put your home in our hands. Some of the areas we service are listed below:

• Greenville
• Georgiana
• McKenzie
• Andalusia
• Opp
• Florala
• Luverne
• Rutledge
• Troy
• Brundidge

We are proud to serve our local communities, call us today at 334-371-7378. We are here to help 365- 24/7. When you call, we answer. We want to make you water and fire damages "Like it never even happened."

Water Conditions Facing a Storm

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

When you think storm damage, your mind immediately goes to torn roofs, downed power lines, and trees littering across street corners. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia sees a whole other side. Flooding occurs more often in storm damage than almost any other type of debris. When our team was in Nebraska  they cleaned up category 1, 2, and 3 storm flood waters. Here are the differences between the three types of water damage:

• Category 1- water that does not pose much of a threat to humans and classified as "Clean Water.” Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.
• Category 2- water that contains a significant amount of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to, known as "grey water.” Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.
• Category 3- Known as "black water" and is extremely unsanitary. This category includes water from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water or standing water

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia today, so we can make your water, flood, or storm damage “Like it never even happened.”

Springtime in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Spring time in Alabama is the start of warmer weather and nature blooming back to life.  But, spring time also means that rain showers and storms will be here as well. SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is prepared and ready 24/7 for any storm or water damage you may experience during this time.

Our technicians are extensively trained and are here to help whether you experience roof damage, flooding, or sump pump failure.  If you need emergency water removal, drying equipment or even tarping or board up services, call your local heroes at SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia.

We specialize in both residential and commercial needs; no service call is too little or too large for our team.  Utilizing a company like SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia gives you the peace of mind that you will get a team of knowledgeable technicians, dedicated to customer service and excellence 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  We are locally based with local employees – our communities are not just places we work, but places we live.

Your neighborhood SERVPRO® is there for you should you need any assistance this spring!

Emergency Ready Plan

4/14/2019 (Permalink)

Uh-Oh, has there been an emergency water or fire damage to your business. Do you know the local water company, or who to call to make the decisions, or your local SERVPRO's number? If you answered no to any of these questions --we have just the ticket for you!

SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia offers an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) service for its customers. It's an App that files important pictures and information of your business. And, the best part --it's complimentary!

If you think you're interested in getting and Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business or you just want more information --call our Sales & Marketing Representative at (334) 371-7378.  He is here to help get you disaster ready!

Fire Restoration Process

4/14/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage is probably the last thing on your mind, but you may want to move it up on your list of priorities; preparation is the key. The first 48 hours after a fire often makes the difference between ‘restoring’ vs. ‘replacing’ your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia provides a timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal, to content claims inventory and document restoration.  

Here is a timeline to help ease your mind of what should be done before and after SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia arrives:

One Hour

Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia professional will contact you to arrange for service.

Four Hours

Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia technician will be onsite to start mitigation services.

Detailed Explanation

A trained and uniformed SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia employee will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.

Pretesting

A SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia employee will begin pretesting for restoration, working from the source of the damage outward.

Eight Hours

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope is communicated to the appropriate person.

Cleaning, Restoration, & Deodorization

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property. We then use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Final Walk-through

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia responds quickly, offering a full line of fire cleanup and restoration services to help you return home as soon as possible. Before risking further damage by attempting to clean up the damage on your own, call the fire damage clean-up and restoration professionals. Call us at (334) 371-7378.

Soot Clean-up

4/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is a leader in the cleaning and restoration industry and we see the most incredible things when fire damages homes or offices. The hardest part of cleaning up after a fire finding all of the soot. It literally gets in, on and around everywhere and everything.

Our well trained crew opened a closet knowing they were going to see soot and they were correct. Every item inside the closet had left it's print on the painted shelving below and fire particulate had filled in all of the blank spaces.

We know that every surface in a home affected by fire will need to be cleaned. This includes the front, back, bottom, top, side, inside and outside. 

Who knew there were so many sides?

Commercial Water Damage

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

Leaks in your business are not only a nuisance but can be costly as well. Whether you find a puddle during a regular inspection or you get an unpleasant surprise when you reach under a sink, it is something that needs to be handled right away. Leaks in your pipes usually start at the joints, and although you can buy over the counter products for a temporary fix, you need a professional company for permanent plumbing repair.

A professional restoration company should handle commercial water damages. At SERVPRO, we have the professional training and tools needed to clean up the water and dry your business back out. The sooner we can get to your business the better, so do not hesitate to give our experts a call as soon as you find the leak.

Drying your building fast is essential. Four factors which affect the time that is needed for dying include how much water we need to evaporate, temperatures, humidity, and air movement.

SERVPRO staff understand that when rooms are heated to between 70- and 90-degrees Fahrenheit drying occurs quickly because air which is hot can hold additional moisture. Our technicians can use portable heaters if no heat is available. The ideal range is between 70 and 80 degrees. Anything over this on the first day of drying can result in too much moisture being trapped in the air, creating secondary damage.

The more water we can extract or pump out of your structure the less we have to remove with dehumidifiers. Gas takes longer to remove than liquids, and removal of standing water is much more effective than dehumidification. We use a submersible pump if there are two or more inches of standing water.

RH or relative humidity is how the amount of moisture the air currently contains at a given temperature. The ratio of water vapor which is present in the air, or the RH, compared to the highest amount of water vapor the air can hold at a given temperature. We use dehumidifiers to lower Relative humidity, as it is the most effective method. The moisture that is evaporated is removed from the air by the dehumidifiers.

Also, important to drying is movement of air. The air in a room that is water-damaged is usually humid and damp, slowing down evaporation. By blowing the damp air out and bringing in dry, warm air, the drying process is sped up. We are careful to properly positioning the air movers to help, and monitor the machines daily and move them accordingly to ensure the fastest drying times.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia takes the time to ensure that your business in Butler, Covington, Crewshaw, or Pike County area is thoroughly dry before we say the job is done. Reach out to us any time you have a water damage emergency by dialing (334) 371-7378.

HVAC Cleaning

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

Sometimes we only think of HVAC cleanings for our own home. We want to keep our family happy and healthy. So, why not extend the same services to our customers. Dirty ducts can circulate mold, odor, and other contaminants throughout the building. Here are some concrete reasons why cleaning those ducts is the best way to go:

Allergies- We all carry allergies through our lives. Flowers, grass, and other natural things in nature flare up our stuffy noses. Dust is another contaminant that can flare our allergies up which is why cleaning those ducts helps prevent those in our customers, employees, and our own selves.

Pets- We all love our four legged friends, but they shed. And, where does that hair go? It can head straight to our air ducts.

Efficiency- During the drastic weather months of cold and hot, we want our ducts to run smoothly and efficiently. Did you know that getting your ducts cleaned can save you money, because like everything else, it works better when it's cleaned out.

We want the best possible service for our customers and calling SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia to clean your ducts is a great place to start!

April Showers

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

As April Showers approach us we want to better prepare for you them, with the rain season water damages can occur more often than not. There is a variety of ways that water damage can occur even when you do everything right. But, there are ways to help prevent water damage from occurring in the first place:

1. Clear out  your Gutters
2. Check for Signs of Leakage
3. Seal Windows and Doors
4. Have Your Basement Inspected
5. Prepare for Flooding

When you check your home for the rain season mishaps, be sure to keep SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia  in mind. You want to have your home in the best care possible. We are the professional heroes who can make your water damage "Like it never even happened."

How Different Classes of Water Can Affect Your Loss

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

In water damage, there are a variety of factors that impact pricing, damage control, insurance, and other aspects. The classes of water can be broken up into four different categories.

Class 1:

This is when there is only a bit of water, absorption, and evaporation.  It means that a portion of a room or area is impacted. It can also refer to a larger area where the wet materials have absorbed moisture minimally. Little or no wet carpet or cushion is present in Class 1 Waters.

Class 2:

This involves a large amount of water, absorption, and evaporation.  We use this classification when the entire room with carpet and pad is affected. There is moisture in structural materials and substructure soil.

Class 3:

This type involves the greatest amount of water, absorption, and evaporation. Water in this class may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion, and sub-floor in virtually the entire area are saturated.

Class 4:

This kind relates to specialty drying situations, such as wet materials with low permanence or porosity. These types of losses may require longer drying times and specialty drying methods.

If you have water damage, whichever the class may be, call SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia today.

Household Appliances Could Become A Problem

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

No one wants to wake up to water damage in their home. It's never a pleasant experience to see your dishwasher has flooded your kitchen, or your air conditioner has leaked.

Sometimes, you may not even know these appliances could cause such huge water damages. Here are some more household appliances that are a water damage waiting to happen:

• Hot Water Heater-it's one of the top five sources and a yearly inspection by a professional can take that percentage down.
• Air conditioner- have a professional install a drain pipe to keep water damage at bay.
• Washing machines- if there is a leak that is a sure sign for future damage. Replace your hose every five years to help prevent this situation.
• Refrigerator- defrost drain can have a leak or clog so it's best to flush the drain with hot water.
• Dishwasher- adding too much detergent and having a dishwasher over 9 years old can cause it to overflow.

We hope you don't have a water damage, but if you do call SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia today. We are certified and have water restoration trained technicians who are here to help!

We Can Help You After the Storm.

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

There’s a scary feeling that hits when you hear your local sirens going off, and you realize the storms are headed your way. You take the necessary precautions, but sometimes the eye of the storm has a mind of it’s own. When the clouds have cleared and you have a mess on your hands, call us at SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia! We understand that storm damage can be overwhelming and seem impossible, but our crew of professionally trained individuals are always ready! Our 1-4-8 rule will get us to you even sooner. Within:

• One hour from a notice of loss, we will have a SERVPRO professional contact you.
• Four hours of loss a SERVPRO professional will be on site to start mitigation, if necessary.
• Eight business hours after a loss, we will have a verbal briefing of the scope communicated to you.

SERVPRO is here to help when the storm damages your home. As always, we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Severe Water Damage

4/6/2019 (Permalink)

The severity of a water-damaged location is classified by the source of the water and also by the materials that are affected. Another factor is the size/amount of what was affected. When the source of wetness is clean water, the damage is often less severe than when flooding that is caused by a sewage spill or a groundwater flow. When ceilings and upper walls are wet, it’s far more serious than when only a portion of the flooring is wet. Don’t worry, there are times proven methods and scientific formulas to properly mitigate and restore each classification and category of water damage. (Mitigation means to stop and contain the damage, and restore means to rebuild or bring back to prior condition.)

What happens when the damage is really intense, will you need to move out? That is a common question. When facility’s systems such as plumbing, heating, and lighting are compromised, moving out during restoration is often the practical solution. When unsafe and unhealthy conditions are present, occupants should vacate. If habitation seriously impedes the cleanup and restoration efforts (especial when young children or seniors are present, it makes sense to move out). Any time the appropriate situation requires move-out we will respectfully notify your insurance adjuster or your property manager as needed. However, the final decision about moving out will be made between you and your insurance adjuster or property manager/landlord. When a disaster strikes, it is a stressful experience. No one enjoys having their home or workplace damaged or their daily life and routines interrupted. It is normal to feel a sense of helplessness. Interacting with an insurance company and having contractors in and out of your home is not familiar territory. From the start to the completion of a restoration project questions arise.  SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will be pleased to provide answers and information. We are here to serve the residents and business professionals of the Greenville/Troy/Andalusia area.

Post Construction Cleaning

4/6/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia we are professional and fast to provide you with your post-construction cleaning needs.

We have worked on schools, hotels and other commercial businesses. We are equipped to handle mitigation issues --and even restoration services for water, mold, and smoke damages. We offer de-humidification as a part of our post-construction cleanup. We know there could be moisture issues, and we are trained to provide those services during your time of need.

We want your first impression of SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia and the services we offer to be the best yet.

We are open 24/7, 365 days, we are here to help make your post-construction cleaning and other needs "Like it never even happened."

Preparing for the Storm

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

Storms are dangerous forces of nature that can be brutal, unpredictable, and strike without warning. Because they wreak such serious havoc, it’s important to take measures in keeping your home safe from potential storm damage.

So what can you do to be prepared? For starters, perform a full inspection of your home and its surrounding premises. You can do this personally or professionally. Check for leaks in your roof or windows, and make sure all exterior doors and windows are fitted correctly. Any cracks or gaps can lead to big problems during storms, so it’s important to fix up any you may find right away.

Next, check the condition of your shutters and rain gutters. Make sure they are sturdy and tight. If any are loose, get them fixed and tightened right away. Loose shutters and gutters can become dangerous in a storm because they are unstable and in some cases they can rip away from your house and blow around as debris. The same goes for any unstable large trees or loose tree limbs. Consider trimming back trees with any unhealthy looking branches that could be torn off in a storm.

If your home is older and has a drainage ditch in front of the property, inspect the area around it. Remove debris, dirt, and anything else that could obstruct the flow of water. This will prevent any blockage and clogging that could cause flooding.

Finally, have an emergency plan in place for your family to help ensure their safety in the event of a storm.

When a storm does hit, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has your back. We’ll take care of any emergency repairs or restorations your home may need. Give us a call at (334) 371-7378.

Odor Removal

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

Are you a business owner or in charge of a commercial property? Have you ever noticed any smells that could be pushing away business or a nuisance?

SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia  is here to help! We provide Odor Removal and Deodorization to our customers. We are expertly trained in getting rid of those smells that make you want to leave a business --or even worse, fear for your employees and customers for those harmful odors.  

We can identify and eliminate those offensive odors. We know it can lead to the worst of times with customers when there's a bad smell in the air.

Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia  --we have ozone machines and other techniques to get your property back to smelling "Like it never even happened."

Have a Fire Loss?

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

Have you had a fire-loss, but do not want to lose your fire-damaged items?

Here at SERVPRO® of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia we have your best interest in mind. We make sure your items are restorable before we suggest replacing them.

We work with your insurance company to provide items that can be professionally cleaned and deodorized to a preloss condition. We have special industry standard cleaning products, highly trained technicians, and a policy to help our customers with their fire damage to our full potential.

We have a variety of items that can be included in this process:

• furniture
• draperies
• upholstery
• electronics
• art
• flooring
• walls
• ceilings
• HVAC air ducts
• and much more!

We won't cover up or mask odors --we seek out the source to make sure they do not linger around after we are gone.

If you have smoke or soot damage, don't you want a professional to keep your beloved items safe? Call us today for a free estimate! (334) 371-7378

Why You Should Board-Up

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

If your property  has experienced a fire, there are several reasons why you might want to board up structural damage or windows. In addition to keeping the external elements out of a building with fire damage, boarding up can also prevent additional losses due to looting and make the fire cleanup process easier.  SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia offers full-service restoration specialists who can also assist in board-up services.

Here are four reasons to board-up after a fire:

• In a commercial setting, there may still be viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale, but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.
• You want to protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition.
• You need to keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out to prevent additional damage. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.
• You want to limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.

Talk to our experts at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, about whether boarding up is a good strategy for preventing loss and limiting damage after a fire. Your major concern is likely to be how to recover from fire damage as quickly and completely as possible. Preventing looting and exposure to the elements can make fire cleanup more successful. Call us at (334) 371-7378.

Preparing for Summer Storms

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

The summer weather is coming in fast this year, with heat waves, summer storms, and flooding right around the corner. It's always a good idea to keep your family safe by having an emergency preparedness kit just in case. Our friends at the American Red Cross suggest these items for your kit. Of course all items should be personalized to fit your family's needs.

Include:

• According to the American Red Cross a first aid kit may include:
• non-latex gloves
• assortment of adhesive bandages
• antibiotic ointment
• sterile gauze pads in assorted sizes
• absorbent compress dressings
• tweezers
• scissors
• adhesive cloth tape
• aspirin packets (81 mg each)
• first aid instruction booklet
• A 3–5 day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food
• Personal hygiene items
• Blankets or sleeping bags

When Lightening Strikes

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we can help you with fire damages caused by lightning strikes. When the lightning hits a residence, it travels through the electrical lines to one of the home’s electrical boxes, which can catch fire. These fires can leave severe damage, including smoke damage to your home. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia’s mitigation team has the ability to do a chem-sponge technique that was used to clean soot off of the walls. In doing this, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can ensure that no fire damage or smoke damage goes untreated. If needed, affected walls in all damaged rooms can be painted after the cleanup is completed and drywall replaced where necessary. Our professional in-house crew use a white-glove treatment on your residence and completed the entire project quickly; from the first contact to completion Here at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we are proud to serve the residents of Greenville/Trpy/Andalusia area, especially when the worst happens. Why chose SERVPRO? Because in the event of fire damage or water damages large or small, we’re here to help. Call us at (334) 371-7378.

Hoarding Clean-up

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

What is “Hoarding Disorder”

According to The American Psychiatric Association ""People with hoarding disorder excessively save items that others may view as worthless. They have persistent difficulty getting rid of or parting with possessions, leading to clutter that disrupts their ability to use their living or work spaces.Hoarding is not the same as collecting. Collectors look for specific items, such as model cars or stamps, and may organize or display them. People with hoarding disorder often save random items and store them haphazardly. In most cases, they save items that they feel they may need in the future, are valuable or have sentimental value. Some may also feel safer surrounded by the things they save.Hoarding disorder occurs in an estimated 2 to 6 percent of the population and often leads to substantial distress and problems functioning. Some research show hoarding disorder is more common in males than females. It is also more common among older adults--three times as many adults 55 to 94 years are affected by hoarding disorder compared to adults 34 to 44 years old” Ranna Parekh, M.D., M.P.H. in July 2017 via www.psychiatry.org

What is Hoarding?

Hoarded items are often things others would throw away or look at as junk or garbage such as old newspapers, junk mail or packaging. Hoarding can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter to full capacity from years of accumulation, making living conditions unsanitary and crowded. Bugs, fleas, rats and other vermin may be present, at which point an exterminator would need to be called. At times, hoarding may spread to outside the home as well, to storage facilities, or even the garage or yard.

How can SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Help?

SERVPRO of Birmingham encounters hoarding situations in several different ways. We may be called for a fire or water loss and find the hoarding situation when we arrive on-site. We will communicate with the insurance company regarding the customer's contents coverage, and after approval, contents can be packed out and possibly cleaned, dried, and stored in our temporary storage in our warehouse so work on the fire or water loss can begin. Another way SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia encounters hoarding jobs is through calls from landlords, caseworkers, real estate agents, or family members, often after the death of a loved one. In these situations, the crew will see if they should look for any items of importance while they clean the job. Sometimes, family members will come and try to help the hoarder sort through their contents as well. Each case is very different, and hoarding jobs are often sensitive situations, but SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” If you encounter a hoarding situation at one of your properties, or with your insureds, call us at (334) 372-7378

Factors for Choosing a Restoration Company

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

When your home or business is struck by a water damage event, such as a flood, burst pipe, or roof leak, you will see many restoration options in a google search. Here is why it is so important to carefully consider the company you choose to repair your property. 

1. Evaluating exactly what can and cannot be saved in the property is crucial. This is where our experienced managers quickly determine the best course of action to save as much of the structure as possible. This first step can determine a huge chunk of your upfront costs for repair and materials for replacement.

2. Drying Equipment. If the company you hire is not using the best drying and air scrubbing equipment available, chances are they will need to use that equipment on your property for a longer period of time, costing you more money. Our techs are trained to work and act efficiently and we invest in the best possible restoration equipment so everything we do is efficient. In the long run, this is the best possible way to save our client's money.

3. We offer all phases of restoration and reconstruction services. Again, as we strive to be an efficient company we employ a team of talented and experienced craftsmen and carpenters to remove the need to hire subcontractors on your project and to be 100% sure your job will be completed professionally.

Our 1-4-8 Guarantee

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

Do you get tired of waiting on restoration professionals who say they will be there within an hour but it ends up being more like four or five hours? 

If you answered yes, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is here to help!

We have a special response system that provides us with guidelines to meet our customer halfway. We utilize SERVPRO's standard 1-4-8 rule.

1- Within one hour from a notice of loss, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will contact you to arrange services. 

4- Within four hours of a loss, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will be on site to start mitigation services. 

8- Within eight business days of on-site arrival a briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person. 

We never want you to miss out on getting the help you need! We want you to call SERVPRO today.

*Exceptions may apply under certain conditions such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation

Carpet Cleaning Services

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

Summer is the best time of the year. The kids are out of school. You are taking family vacations. Having BBQ's at your home. But the trips to the beach, the increased foot traffic, playing in the yard and the overall humidity can be tough on carpets leaving them damp and dirty with debris. 

We can help.

SERVPRO professionals are available to clean, renew and help protect your carpets. We offer complete carpet and upholstery cleaning services to residents and businesses in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia.

Because our techs are professionally trained to remediate disasters like fire, water damage, smoke damage and more we are already equipped and prepared to offer commercial grade cleaning services right in your neighborhood. And, because we have decades of experience we offer service and products unmatched by other carpet cleaning services. Contact our office today for a no obligation estimate.

Any Time, Any Problem, SERVPRO of GTA is Ready to Help with Restoration Service

3/3/2019 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO?

With any disaster, cleanup can be a hassle in the Greenville/Troy/Andalusia area. The mess left by floods, fires, or mold is a lot to handle by yourself. At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we provide emergency cleaning services for any of these problems. Let us help you get your life back to normal after an emergency. Sometimes the most damaging thing from a fire is the smoke and soot that comes with it. Our cleaning professionals will remove any traces and odor left by smoke and soot after a fire. Getting rid of the mess after a fire is a difficult job, and it requires knowledge and experience to be completely successful. The same is true when it comes to removing mold, mildew, and sewage. With our trusted professionals, you can be sure the damage from any disaster will be minimized as much as possible. Cleaning services from SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will take care of these messes so you don’t have to! If you’ve already had to deal with the stress of a disaster, let us take the stress out of the cleanup. We are available 24/7 to help with any emergency, at any time. Contact us today, and our professional cleaning services will take care of any emergencies you have. Whether its mold, water, or fire damage, our team at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has the most reliable emergency restoration services. We are available any time, day or night, to help with any problem, and you can trust us to do our best work every time.  

Mold Damage

• Mold grows when water damage has not been dried properly. If you have had previous water damage and are now seeing fuzzy or wet spots of mold somewhere in your home, call us today. The quicker a mold problem is taken care of by our professional restoration team, the less overall damage you will have to deal with.

Water Damage

• Immense water damage, like a flood from a burst pipe, always happens when you least expect it. Our emergency restoration services are available 24/7 because these emergencies cannot wait. Immediate action must be taken in order to save your home or business. Our trusted team will respond quickly to clean up the mess and lower the possibility of mold growth.

Fire Damage

• Fires are destructive, as well as the smoke and soot that comes with them. If these problems aren’t taken care of very quickly, the damage will be severe and permanent. Take action instantly after a fire and call our restoration team. We can fix all of the problems that come after a fire, and we do our best work to return your home or business to normal.

No matter what emergency you’re facing, contact us at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia today at (334) 371-7378 and let our emergency restoration services team take care of it!

Preventing Your Pipes from Freezing

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Helpful tips for preventing frozen pipes inside and outside your home

2/28/2019

Frozen Pipes Can Burst!

1. Keeping your house warm - If you are leaving for a period of time, make sure that the heat is kept on at your property. You should inform them that the heat can help prevent pipes from freezing, and if pipes freeze and burst, it can cause a lot of water damage to the property and to their possessions. The heat doesn’t have to be kept as high as you normally would keep it if you were home but keeping it set above 50 degrees Fahrenheit at all times is a good idea. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and to prevent any water inside from freezing.
2.  Opening faucets - When temps hit the freezing level it is a good idea to allow faucets to drip. Allowing the faucet to be open like this will relieve pressure in the pipe. If a pipe freezes, it is actually the pressure that is created between the blockage and the faucet that will cause the pipe to burst. With the faucet open you avoid blockage in the pipes.
3. Insulation is key - Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. This can be an easy solution for pipes that are exposed but can get expensive if walls, floors or ceilings have to be opened in order to properly insulate the pipe. Additional insulation can also be added to walls and ceilings to keep the pipes warm.

WHY SERVPRO?

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

In early October, a pipe broke in the ceiling over the weekend, causing water to flood and damage much of our 5,000 sq. ft. training center. We had a leadership seminar scheduled there in just a few days with clients flying in from as far as Australia. Our property manager called SERVPRO® and I coordinated with the local Franchise to work out the repairs to be done to our offices. The crew chief and his staff were prompt, professional and kept every commitment they made to us. This was essential as our offices are called “The Elite Center” because of the high-end furnishings and decor we have throughout. They listened and understood the importance of our deadlines and were able to get the offices in working order for the upcoming seminar, and then returned to do the “heavy lifting” and complete the work for an even larger seminar that began in three weeks: all was done on time. I have purposely waited to make sure all the repairs they did held up before writing you, and to see if we have any aftercare problems that we’d need addressed, but there weren’t any. They got it right the first time. As you’re aware, the stress one endures going through a catastrophic loss experience can either be elevated or diminished, based on the quality of the people one is working with to rectify the matter. To that end, SERVPRO® excelled. I recommend them to everyone I find that needs their services, and will continue to do so.

-Dave, CA

Hurricane Preparedness

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

It may seem early, but hurricane season is currently underway. For the Atlantic, the season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season began in mid-May and also ends November 30. Hurricanes can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property threatening hazards such as flooding, storm surge, high winds, and tornadoes. While the primary threat is in coastal areas, many inland areas can also be affected by these hazards, as well as by secondary events such as power outages as a result of high winds and landslides due to rainfall. Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane. Plan an evacuation route and your emergency plan, take inventory of your property, and take steps to protect your home or business. For more information and preparation tips, visit the Ready campaign website at www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

Real Customer Testimonials

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

We are delighted with SERVPRO’s efforts to put our home back in order, making it ready for rebuilding. The SERVPRO® team relieved our high anxiety, letting us know we were in capable hands. Hearing the team of ladies laughing while they worked hard at their tasks made me feel our place, though damaged and long from return, was once again a home. From our Project Manager down to each team member, I was treated with enthusiastic respect. Communication was open and free-flowing, even as I asked a zillion questions. Never a falter in getting good and clear answers. The work was hard, hot, and difficult, but no one backed away or slacked off, always carrying on in a professional manner. All the team members treated me as a friend, with warm greetings each morning and including me in some laughs at the end of each day. I can’t find words to express how your team of professionals made me feel comfortable and well cared for. These days it is very uncommon to find “customer-focused” businesses (not just in words but in actions), even more rare for employees to extend their company’s strategy, even when face-to-face with the customer especially during such trying and anxious times for the customers.

—Charles and Sena, Texas

Be Prepared!

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Be prepared to weather the storm with the FEMA App. This app allows you to get National Weather Service alerts for up to five locations to keep you informed on-the-go. It also has information on what to do before, during, and after different disasters. In the midst of an emergency, the app can give you directions to open shelters nearby, help you locate someone to talk to at a Disaster Recovery Center, and let you share images of damage and recovery efforts to help first responders and emergency managers. This app is available to download for free for iOS and Android at the Apple Store and on Google Play.

We are always here to help in case of emergency 24/7 365 - yes even holidays! 

Smoke Webs

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know?

Residues (such as burning plastics or the soot from furnace disorders) form long chains of ionized smoke particles that assemble in corners or at junctions of walls and ceilings which are called smoke webs!

Does your business have a plan? Check out these tips:

Protect your people : Your employees are your most important business asset. These tips can help prevent them from being injured in a fire.

• Fire Plans: Make sure your employees know what to do if there's a fire, including calling 911 immediately. Conduct a fire drill at least once a year to keep employees aware of your workplace fire safety protocol. 
• Evacuation Plan: In larger buildings, post a fire evacuation plan in several spots around the workplace. Never include elevators in an evacuation plan; always use the stairs. 
• First Aid: In case of fire injuries, your employees should be familiar with the location of the first-aid kit, which should be kept where possible hazards can occur most-such as in the kitchen.

https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/planning/3-business-fire-prevention-tips

American Red Cross Home Fire Campaign

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

Each year, the Red Cross responds to nearly 64,000 disasters, the vast majority of which are home fires. So we set a goal to reduce fire-related deaths and injuries in the US by 25%.

On average:

• 7 people die every day from a home fire, most impacting children and the elderly
• 36 people suffer injuries as a result of home fires every day
• Over $7 billion in property damage occurs every year

Every day, seven people die in home fires, most in homes that lack working smoke alarms. Sadly, children and the elderly disproportionately lose their lives. The American Red Cross wants to improve the odds and save lives- that’s why we launched our Home Fire Campaign in 2014.

A critical part of the campaign is Sound the Alarm, a series of home fire safety and smoke alarm installation events across the country. Together with fire departments and other community partners, Red Cross volunteers:

• Canvass at-risk neighborhoods
• Install free smoke alarms
• Replace batteries in existing alarms
• Provide fire prevention and safety education

In just three years, our home visits have accomplished so much, including the installation of more than 1 million smoke alarms and preparing more than 1 million people against home fires.

Join us April 28 through May 13 on a Sound the Alarm home visit in your community, where teams of volunteers will be installing 100,000 free smoke alarms in more than 100 cities across the U.S. Together, we can save lives!

Check out www.redcross.org/sound-the-alarm for more information and how to help in YOUR community!!

Storm Damage at School

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

What does it mean to feel proud?

Is pride only something that makes you feel good inside, your heart soaring, swelling with an emotion that just has to bubble up and flow over so those around us can see?

I think so!

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia everything we do gives us a certain amount of pride, but it is those special things we do, certain tasks, jobs, that jolts our pride up another level or two.

This is one of those times.

Don’t get me wrong, we love helping everyone in our Community.

There is no job too small or too large to lessen the pride we feel after we have finished restoring your home or business...Giving you peace of mind.

We give you our very best each and every time.

But this last week we had the opportunity to help restore the very bedrock of a Community…A school.

A school houses a Community’s most precious gift…Our children.

They are our future. 
The ones that grow to one day take our place in society and help the next generation learn and succeed, so they in turn, can replace themselves and carry on a love for our home town.

When a storm brought water and destruction to one of our own schools last week, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia didn’t hesitate to help restore a building that houses our children for seven to eight hours a day.

When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO responded immediately and used advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. We closely monitored and documented the drying process to verify the School was dried properly and thoroughly.

“Like it never even happened.”

So proud? Yes!

We can sleep in peace knowing that our children won't have to suffer through a disaster any more than they had to.

Our children ARE our Community!

Home

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

A Home is made up of more than walls, ceilings, floors, doors and windows…So much more.

It becomes a part of who we are, a place where life is shared with loved ones at the beginning of life, until often the end.

Our homes are full of special moments that are absorbed in memories not long forgotten, be it good or bad.  

Home is truly where our heart is.

When a Fire or Flood destroys a home, we lose a part of us. Everything that is guaranteed to be there when we returned at the end of our day has been washed away or went up in smoke.

No one is prepared for the mental stress this puts upon our shoulders.

That is why at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia we are dedicated in seeing the person behind the disaster when we are called in to help.

We see a Home and not a house.

We see Entrepreneurs and not a business.

We see PEOPLE.

Our professional team is ready to assist you with cleanup, restoration and repair.

“Like it never even happened.”

From water leaks, storm damage, major flood, or fire and smoke damage, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will be there with you from the beginning …   Informing you of each necessary step until your home is restored.

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today!

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia 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.

Faster to your Water Damage Event

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. Greenville/Troy/Anadlusia 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 Greenville/Troy/Andalusia 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 

Water Damage Timeline

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 Greenville/Troy/Andalusia

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia 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.

American Red Cross Weather Tips

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

TORNADOES Tornadoes can strike without warning and destroy a community in seconds. Before a tornado warning is issued for your area, here are some things you should do:

1. Know your community’s warning system.

2. Pick a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.

3. If you are in a high-rise building and don’t have enough time to go to the lowest floor, pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.

4. Remove diseased and damaged limbs from trees.

5. Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile.

THUNDERSTORM SAFETY STEPS Thunderstorms injure an average of 300 people every year, and cause about 80 fatalities. Here are the top thunderstorm safety steps you should follow:

1. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.

2. As the storm approaches, take shelter in a building.

3. If you are driving, pull off the roadway and park. Stay in the car with the windows closed and turn on the emergency flashers. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside of the vehicle.

4. If you are inside, unplug appliances and avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.

5. If you are caught outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground, water, tall, isolated trees and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are not safe.

FLOODING Heavy rains could fill rivers and streams, bringing flooding to the area. If your neighborhood is threatened with the possibility of flooding, here are some things you should do:

1. Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.

2. Stay away from floodwaters.

3. If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

4. Keep children out of the water.

5. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.

DOWNLOAD EMERGENCY People should download the free Red Cross Emergency App to receive emergency alerts and information about what to do in case of tornadoes, flooding and other disasters, as well as locations of shelters. The App also includes emergency first aid information and a Family Safe feature which allows people to instantly see if loved ones are okay. The free Emergency App is available in app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

Check out www.redcross.org for more information!

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today!

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Indoor Air Quality

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

Indoor air quality/environmental professionals evaluate the quality of the air inside a structure. Some specialize and are skilled in testing buildings for the presence of molds. Using various testing devices, these professionals collect air and surface samples to compare the indoor mold spore count to the outdoor environment. If you have concerns about mold, SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can assist you in locating a qualified indoor air quality/environmental professional. 

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia cares about proper restoration of your structure. In most water damage situations excessive mold growth is not a problem and SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can safely restore your building to preloss condition. The need to address the presence of mold can be determined by an on-site, indoor environmental inspection. Please keep in mind SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia does not interpret insurance policies or coverage; you must consult your insurance company to determine the scope of policy coverage. 

IICRC Certified Firm

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia 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 Greenville/Troy/Andalusia

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia 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.

We provide immediate service day or night!

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Greenville/Troy/Andalusia. 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 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 Residential Services

Whether your Greenville/Troy/Andalusia home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Greenville/Troy/Andalusia commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. 

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO is ready!

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ofGreenville/Troy/Andalusia 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.

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 Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, 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!

Mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours!

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today!

Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today!

Conditions In Your City Might Be Right For Mold

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today!!

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia for mold remediation services.

IICRC Certified Firm

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia 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 Greenville/Troy/Andalusia

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia 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.

Wildfire Damage Event

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

The active wildfires in Southern California are increasing their impact as growing Santa Ana winds add fuel to these devastating blazes that are encroaching in our area. According to the New York Times, new fires broke out in Malibu on December 7, with at least 96,000 acres already burned in the Ventura area and 116,000 acres in Los Angeles County. Evacuations have closed hundreds of schools and forced 200,000 of our neighbors to seek safety. The “Thomas Fire” in the Ventura area continues to burn with the aid of strong winds. This fire has caused the closure of the 101 freeway and a boil-water advisory was issued for Ventura County. Santa Ana winds The Santa Ana winds that are enabling the fires to rapidly increase their reach can have speeds in excess of 60 miles per hour. They are not expected to diminish until Friday into Saturday at the earliest. The National Weather Service has warned of “very rapid fire growth” in this area. SERVPRO Meteorologist Lela Davis said that the Santa Ana winds were already very dry when they reached the Southern California valley, allowing them to quickly pull moisture out of vegetation, increasing the risk for wildfires. For the first time ever, a purple wind warning was issued for today under the color-coded system used to advise about high winds. This purple warning pushed wind expectations from the “high” category to “extreme”. Ready to help Here at SERVPRO of Greenville / Troy / Andalusia we are monitoring this wildfire situation closely. Our thoughts are with those neighbors who may be put in harms’ way during this event. In many cases, a wildfire can result in a total loss for a home or business, but in others it may be a partial loss, or can result in mild smoke damage. If your home or business is affected by a wildfire, SERVPRO of Greenville / Troy / Andalusia is Here to Help®. 

About SERVPRO of Greenville / Troy / Andalusia

SERVPRO of Greenville / Troy / Andalusia 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.

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Home.

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

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 Greenville / Troy / Andalusia 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.

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Greenville / Troy / Andalusia commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Greenville / Troy / Andalusia

SERVPRO of Greenville / Troy / Andalusia specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.

You Can Find Us on Social Media...

6/30/2017 (Permalink)

Communicating.

They say that communication is the key to success, I agree. Without communication the world that we know ceases to exist. From the beginning of time, every living thing on Earth has used it in one shape or other, and it has consistently progressed throughout the years at an incalculable speed

If you don’t believe me, think about this scenario…

In the 1970s most of the population had a rotary telephone (We didn’t call them “phones”) and if we could not find a phone number in the local phone book (Thirty mile radius), we called an operator (A real person that answered when you dialed the Zero) and they found the number for us. (It also cost more if you couldn’t find a pen to write down the number and you wanted them to dial it for you.) If you didn’t get anyone to answer the phone (We couldn’t carry them around with us.) or if you received a busy signal (Yes, you had to wait your turn.) you dialed the number until your fingers gave out. (We didn’t have Answering Machines to leave a message.)

During the same time period, we wrote handwritten letters and sent them by the Postal Service. It would take days or weeks to communicate with each other…Even to someone across town.  

Now we have instantaneous communication less than forty years later.  You call someone and they will answer immediately; no matter where they are. You can send a letter and get a reply in less than a minute. We can communicate with family and friends around the world in an instant. Now Social Media has opened the door to conversing with people you don’t even know and from every corner of the earth.

Technology has opened a whole new world of communication and we are excited to be a part of it.

Communicating with our friends, family, and fellow citizens is very important to us.

It affords us the opportunity to become a better Company by listening to what you have to say…Not tomorrow or next week, but right now.

We’re excited to be on Facebook. www.facebook.com/SERVPROgta/

We are on Twitter. www.twitter.com/SERVPRO9950

Anytime you need us, we’ll be there in a flash.

You know who we are.

We specialize in Fire Restoration, Water Restoration, Mold Mitigation, HVAC and Air Duct Cleaning, Carpet Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, Deodorization, Crime Scene, Vandalism and Biohazard Cleanup, and Pressure Washing in Troy, Greenville, Andalusia, Luverne and surrounding areas. 

Grand Opening in Greenville

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of GTA Specialists

A Journey begins with a single thought in your mind. It trudges along consecutively until that one extraordinary idea blossoms into a dream. That dream becomes a goal, and like all goals, we find the path that leads us to where we want to go…The unattainable, through hard work and determination, becomes the attainable.

Wesley and Micah Waddell had such a dream, a goal, a desire to be a part of the SERVPRO Community. The “Journey” they have traveled led them to this place…

Five Fifty Eight Greenville Bypass in Greenville, Alabama.

And on July 11, 2017, we will see their dream up close…Our Grand Opening.

It has been a six year journey, but we are finally where we need to be.

In place of an old warehouse, sits a stylish, restored commercial building with bright offices, a spacious warehouse, and surrounded by an assortment of SERVPRO ready vehicles outfitted with the latest technology and equipment.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia may reside in Greenville, but we are proud to service four Counties…Butler, Covington, Crenshaw and Pike.

Our team of qualified personnel is on call 24/7. 

Wesley and Micah Waddell, Owners

Michael Phelps, Troy Marketing Representative

Laurie Stillwell, Andalusia Marketing Representative

Lana Shannon Marketing Coordinator

Jennifer Taylor, Administrative Assistant

Jon Colquett, Construction Manager

Caleb Parsons, Production Manager

Diane Wilson, Fire Lead

Cyle Petty, Crew Chief

Hank Crenshaw, Production Technician

Walter Fountain, Production Technician

Tami Gartman, In House Construction

Lillie Mae Black, Cleaning Technician

AND…We can’t wait to meet you at our Grand-Opening. It is going to be a good, good day.

The Journey continues...

Tropical Storm Season

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

Our Crew heading out to a storm damage.

Today, June 21, 2017, Tropical Storm Cindy is raking havoc on the Southeast with a large amount of rain embedded within its tentacles. It is an early storm for us and most of us won’t be ready to take it on.

It’s a good time to talk about the importance of Tropical Storm and Hurricane preparedness.

Did you know that twenty-nine Tropical Storms have caused chaos in Alabama in the last sixteen years? In one shape or other, a Tropical Depression, Storm or Hurricane has harmed our State and affected the people who live here. It is important to pay attention and be prepared for the next one…And the next.

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia we have seen firsthand the concern and dread that faces those that have weathered the storm, yet are faced with damage to manage each time we are called in to help restore businesses and residential homes. The only thing to lesson that mental load is to be resilient and have your “Plan of Action” in place before the storm.

Step One:        Listen to the weather forecast. If a Storm is out in the Gulf, be alert.

Step Two:        Call your insurance company and make sure your home or business is covered for storm/wind damage and/or flooding.

Step Three:      If your home or business is near a waterway, use sandbags to help protect your home from rising water.

Step Four:        Board or tape up your windows.

Step Five:        If you are faced with a small Tropical Depression or Storm and are not in a flood zone, wait it out, but make sure you have enough non-perishable food and water on hand.

Step Six:          Buy a generator in case of Electricity loss.

Step Seven:     Have emergency numbers stored in your phone.

Step Eight:       If you are faced with a Hurricane, no matter the size, have a plan already in place of where you will be staying until it passes.

Step Nine:        Make sure your vehicle has a full tank, and you have cash on hand.

Step Ten:         If you have pets, make sure they are part of your plans.

Step Eleven:    Above all else, keep your family, friends and yourself safe.

You can find more helpful hints on NOAA.com.

If you need us, call us and we’ll be on our way.

Loving Your Carpet...

6/13/2017 (Permalink)

Cleaning an area rug.

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, one of our specialties is cleaning carpets and rugs. A lot of people don’t know that about us. They think we are only the Fire and Water Restoration Experts that make it “Like it never even happened”.

Not only do we clean carpets and rugs, we clean floor tile and upholstery…And we have a team of experts that have been trained with the latest technology and equipment to turn dirty into clean.

Diane Wilson is our Cleaning Specialist. You will love her…Everyone does. In the last six years we haven't received one complaint about her abilities.

Diane is IICRC certified in Fire and Restoration Cleaning and currently holds the position as Crew Chief and Fire Lead. She is the reason that we have a well trained crew to service Butler, Crenshaw, Covington and Pike Counties in Alabama.

If someone at your home has been tracking Red Alabama Mud in on your carpet and you just don’t love the way it looks any longer…

Call us! Diane and her crew will make a point of removing it for you.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia specializes in Fire Restoration, Water Restoration, Mold Mitigation, HVAC and Air Duct Cleaning, Carpet Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, Deodorization, Crime Scene, Vandalism and Biohazard Cleanup, Pressure Washing in Troy, Greenville, Andalusia and surrounding areas.   

What Is a Moisture Meter?

6/13/2017 (Permalink)

Caleb showing us how the Moisture Meter picks up water in the board. (As an example)

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, our Production Team stands prepared with the latest technology and equipment to solve any water damage scenario. Part of that technology lies within a handheld meter. It is called a Moisture Meter.

A Moisture Meter is used on various materials such as flooring, wood, drywall, etc. and we can use this instrument to help adjudicate the scope of the moisture content hidden beneath the surface of the objects that were touched by water.

If you asked yourself, “What is the importance of this?” I will explain why it’s not only important, but essential for the complete drying of your home or business after water damage.

In every scenario, water runs. It runs downhill, into cracks and crevices, absorbs into materials and sits there until someone cleans it up.

It has to be cleaned up…Each drop and then dried.

If not, then mold will begin to grow. Mold is not something you want behind your walls…It may affect your health.   

This is why the use of a Moisture Meter is one of our “go-to” tools. It allows us to see beyond what is visible with precise pin point accuracy to repair the damage done to your home or business and complete the process of drying out your home.

Like it never even happened.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia specializes in Fire Restoration, Water Restoration, Mold Mitigation, HVAC and Air Duct Cleaning, Carpet Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, Deodorization, Crime Scene, Vandalism and Biohazard Cleanup, Pressure Washing in Troy, Greenville, Andalusia and surrounding areas. 

Don’t Burn the Kitchen Down…

5/25/2017 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire

There is someone, somewhere or other, cooking dinner at this very moment. We do not know who or where, but I guarantee you someone is not paying attention to what they are doing and a flame has begun to flicker.

You can be an experienced Chef or someone that could not boil an egg if your life depended on it. Starting a fire in the kitchen can happen to all of us. No matter what side of the cake batter you are on. 

There are many reasons why…

DO NOT forget that you are deep frying French Fries when the phone rings and you get so caught up with the latest gossip that you sit down, put your feet up and wait until your fire alarm goes off before you remember them.

DO NOT try to impress a date or spouse with cooking skills that you do not possess. It is imperative not to try making a Banana Foster Flambé with liqueur that is one hundred twenty proof when you want to keep your kitchen in tip top condition. (SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia cannot even make your eyebrows “like it never even happened” if you try that stunt.)

DO NOT wait for a cleaning fairy to come wash the buildup of grease and oils in your oven, on the stove and/or the Grille.

DO NOT sit your toaster near the Kitchen curtains while you toast bread that you have impulsively buttered before hand.

The above is not meant to be comical.

It is meant to grab your attention for just a few moments…To make you think, reflect, and realize the dangers of not paying attention while you are working in the kitchen.

Life is demanding…Multi-tasking is how most of us live each day. So many things to do that we often forget the little details that can save us from a future disaster. Slow down.

If you need us, though, we are there. Visit our home page and click on the “Fire” link. It will guide you through what SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia can do for you.

Smoke & Fire Alarms are Important!

4/25/2017 (Permalink)

Get a Smoke & Fire Alarm Today.

In Alabama, there have been thirty deaths due to home fires so far this year. There were one hundred thirteen deaths in 2016.

In the United States, FEMA reports that eight hundred fifty-nine people have died so far this year in home fires, two thousand two hundred ninety-one people in 2016.

These numbers are down from the previous years, thirteen out of fourteen homes now have a working Smoke or Fire Detector/Alarm in their home, but the statistics continue to prove the importance, as over sixty percent of all fatalities stem from homes without one.

At SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia, we have seen what a house fire does to a home, a family, and there is enough heartache to deal with, without losing yourself or your loved ones. This is why we want to stress the importance of making sure you have a working Fire/Smoke Alarm in your home today. 

We can clean up after a fire, but we can’t bring your loved one back.  

How Smoke Alarms Work

Smoke and Fire Alarms use a sensor to pick up any traces of gasses, smoke or heat.

There are two types of Smoke Alarms (also called Smoke Detectors), that you can install in your home – Photoelectric and Ionization…Each with their own special capabilities. A Photoelectric Alarm is installed in the wiring with backup battery for when the power is out. These are more expensive, but can detect a slow, smoldering fire. (Great for kitchens and near bathrooms since it doesn’t pick up steam). An Ionization Alarm can be very inexpensive and allows you to install several throughout your home. (We’ll discuss this later) They will alert you in seconds of a fast moving fire.

Installing and Servicing

Fire and Smoke Alarms are easy to install. Just find the highest place on the ceiling or/and on a wall about four inches below the ceiling, and follow the directions included.  Smoke and Gasses rise, and you want them overhead.

Install one on every floor, including basement, and beside every bedroom in the house.

Check your batteries often and remember to replace the Unit every ten years.

Important Steps to Remember

When an alarm goes off at night, wake everyone up immediately and get out!

Remember to do a head count and make sure everyone is safe.

Do not run back in your home for anything that is not breathing.  

Use your cell phone or a neighbor’s phone to call the fire department.

Stay together while the fire is being put out.

And then, after the last smoldering flame is extinguished…

Call us.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia will do everything in our power to make it

“Like it Never Even Happened”.

Luverne Alabama In Storm Crosshairs

4/7/2017 (Permalink)

Luverne Alabama Tornado

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia Storm Response Team sprang into action after an EF0 Tornado tore through the City of Luverne on Monday, April 3, 2017, leaving behind a trail of destruction.

When you call, we are there.

April is a beautiful month for Alabama. The sun shines, flowers bloom, grass grows and new life begins from a slow Spring rain, adding color and character to our landscape.

But with this, weather systems form and occasionally disrupt the beauty with damaging storms.

It happens every Spring.

And we should always be prepared.

It is important to us at SERVPRO that our neighbors, friends and families pay close attention to Weather Alerts and local Weather personnel during peak tornado season.

Let me go over a few important factors to remember.

According to the National Climatic Data Center

1. We live in “Dixie Alley”. (The term "Dixie Alley" was coined by NSSFC director Allen Pearson after witnessing a tornado outbreak which included more than 9 long-track, violent tornadoes and killed 121 on February 21, 1971)
2. Alabama is second only to Kansas in F5 Tornadoes.
3. Alabama has suffered more fatalities than any other State except Texas and Mississippi.
4. Alabama has two Tornado seasons. Spring and November-December.   

Therefore, it is of utmost importance that we pay attention to an Alabama approaching Storm.

Important tips to Remember. 

1. Be alert for changing weather conditions.
2. Listen to TV, Radio and local authorities.
3. Own a weather radio for up to the minute warnings.

What to look for:

1. Low, or layered clouds that appear to be moving in opposite directions or rotating.
2. Sudden dark sky. (often w/ an orange or green glow)
3. A loud continuous roar/approaching train (sound) 

Be prepared to take cover immediately.

1. Have a pre-planned shelter to go to if you live in a Mobile Home.
2. Go to a storm shelter, basement or the most interior room in your home, away from any outside walls or windows.
3. If you are driving a car do not try to outrun a tornado. Find the nearest building and shelter in the lowest level. If you cannot find a building, lay flat in a ditch. (Be aware of any flooding or flying debris)

After the storm has passed:

1. Make sure everyone is okay.
2. Check for any damage to your home or property.
3. Call 911 or your local Police if you see downed power lines.

We at SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia understand how frustrating it can be to go through a Southern spring storm that leaves behind its wake a devastating amount of water and storm damage to your home or business.

Therefore, we stand “At the Ready”!

“Like it never even happened”.

New Location

3/2/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is well on it's way to moving into the new location on Greenville Bypass.  We are happy to share some progressive photos of what is going on.  We were thrilled to have the opportunity to take an old dilapidated building in the City Limits of Greenville, AL and transform it into something new, and bring it back to life!  We can't wait to share the finished product.

Please visit our photo gallery to view pictures of the progress we are making.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is Expanding

2/15/2017 (Permalink)

We are happy to announce our expansion!  We are soon going to be moving to a new location, 558 Greenville Bypass, Greenville, AL  36037.  We will have a beautiful new office and warehouse space.  We will be better able to serve our customers in Butler, Crenshaw, Pike and Covington County.

We cannot wait to invite everyone to our Grand Opening and be able to share photos very soon. 

IICRC Certified Firm

2/9/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is an IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified firm. The IICRC sets the gold standards for the Cleaning and Remediation industry, of which SERVPRO is an industry leader. The following is from the IICRC official website (http://www.IICRC.org).

”IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the cleantrust logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise.

"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 actively pursues relationships with fiber producers, carpet and fabric mills, furnishing manufacturers and retailers, and others affiliated with the industry. The use of IICRC-certified service professionals is specified in leading manufacturers’ maintenance brochures and warranties.”

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is honored to count it among the select organizations to receive this certification.