Archived Blog Posts
What to do immediately after storm damage happens
9/26/2022 (Permalink)
Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and heavy winds can cause roof damage as well as downed trees. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health risks as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take the right steps after the storm.
Take Precaution Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing, collapsed walls, window damage or standing water in the basement or home interior. This moisture can soak into building materials, carpeting and furniture, if not dried out quickly or properly this will create the perfect environment for mold growth, which can cause health issues. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails and other sharp objects on the property. Also, make sure to shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Make sure to contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun County to help do basic tasks to secure your property and make it safe. If necessary, make arrangements for a place for you and your family to stay while your home and property is being restored.
Contact your Insurance Contact your insurance Agent to notify them of the damage to your home immediately. If it is safe to move around your property take photographs of the damage so that you can have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure you're fully compensated. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of damage so that payments for repairs can be made.
A storm related disaster may seem overwhelming, but these steps will help you to begin the process of restoring your home and your life to normal. At SERVPRO of North Calhoun County we provide 24-hour emergency disaster service. We specialize in restoration of homes and businesses that may have suffered small or large losses from water, fire, storm, flood or smoke. We're here to help make it "Like it never even happened".
SERVPRO of North Calhoun Smoke and Soot Cleanup
9/26/2022 (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 North Calhoun will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (269) 963-3033
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help, Ready to Do What it Takes
9/26/2022 (Permalink)
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 North Calhoun has the specific fire restoration training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in fire damage restoration.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your loss, damage and details concerning you 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 fire damage occur?
- What caused the loss (if known)?
- Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of North Calhoun
SERVPRO of North Calhoun 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.
Focus on Fire
9/26/2022 (Permalink)
Fall and winter weather, coupled with seasonal holiday heating, cooking and decorations, typically brings about an increase in residential fire frequency. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County fire damage restoration experts realize that people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it's too late to get out. In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared with an escape plan in place. Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year.
Working smoke detectors along with building and practicing a home escape plan increase your chance of surviving a fire. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) promotes steps to help you develop an emergency escape plan. Simply having a plan for your home or business is not enough. Your family and employees must be fully aware of the plan and practice it on a regular basis.
Vandalism Do's and Don'ts
9/20/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners quickly recover from fire and water damage. They also provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.
If you ever encounter an act of vandalism to your home or building, here are some tips on what to do until SERVPRO arrives:
DO:
Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
Blot freshly spilled food from carpets and fabrics with a dampened cloth or sponge (but don’t over wet). Scrape and blot (don’t rub: it may damage fibers).
Carefully vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery. Save containers, which reveal the composition of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints.
Record all damage and photograph when possible.
DON’T:
Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
Discard wood chips, broken pieces from furniture, porcelain or other art objects.
What is Biohazard Remediation
9/20/2022 (Permalink)
Biohazard remediation is not a very common call that we receive and is something that rarely occurs, but if it does occur, it is something that SERVPRO North Calhoun can handle. We come in to make sure that the biological matter and dangerous odors are eliminated all together so that those contaminates do not spread. Biohazard damages can include offensive odors, trauma scenes, human decomposition, hoarding removal, and gross/filth removal. None of these are pleasant things that you want in your home. These issues are also something that you should not plan on cleaning up yourself, especially in a time of grieving. SERVPRO North Calhoun is professionally qualified to come in and get rid of the issues that biohazard damage can cause. Call us @ (269) 963-3033
Are You Prepared?
9/20/2022 (Permalink)
We have many methods of repairing and restoring damage caused by storms, such as seepage, leaks, dampness, or flooding. The work done by our professionals goes way beyond simply cleaning up. It begins with water removal and ends with ensuring that your home is protected from further damage.
Here’s a brief look at what procedures are involved in our water restoration services:
- Water Removal: The restoration process begins with pumping out excess water.
- Deodorization: Foul odors can be eliminated by applying techniques such as ozone treatment, crystals, dry fogging, and wet fogging. The materials and equipment for these techniques are only available to professional water restoration service companies.
- Mold and Mildew Removal: To achieve long-term results, this procedure must be performed by an expert restoration services provider. Using scientific technology, technicians can kill and remove developing mold and mildew.
- Drying and Dehumidifying: These processes are necessary to remove moisture in the air and on walls, floors etc.
- Content Restoration: This procedure involves cleaning, deodorizing and disinfecting clothing, draperies, furnishings, beds, mattresses, carpets, sofas etc. These items can be successfully restored, but prompt action must be taken because harmful microbes, mildew and mold grow very fast in a damp environment.
- Decontamination: Water restoration services also decontaminate and clean any items that are restorable, and dispose of those that are not.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County will respond quickly to your water damage emergency. 24/7 - (269) 963-3033
Does your Business have a Plan
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
How quickly your company can get back to business after a tornado, fire, or flood often depends on the emergency planning done today. The regular occurrence of natural disasters demonstrates the importance of being prepared for any emergency. While each situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place, and practice for all kinds of emergencies. The following are basic measures business owners and managers can take to begin preparing. A commitment to begin planning today will help support your employees, customers, the community, local economy, and even the country. It also protects your business investment and gives your company a better chance for survival.
Develop a Business Continuity Plan
Your organization's risk needs will vary depending on the specific industry, size, scope, and location. Begin by reviewing your business process flow chart, if one exists, to identify operations critical to survival and recovery. Carefully assess your internal and external functions to determine which staff, materials, procedures, and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating. You should also establish procedures for succession of management.
Review Insurance Coverage
Inadequate insurance coverage can lead to major financial loss if your business is damaged, destroyed, or simply interrupted for a period of time. Insurance policies vary; check with your agent or provider about things such as physical losses, flood coverage, and business interruption. Understand what your policy does and does not cover.
Prepare Your Emergency Plan
Your employees and co-workers are your businesses' most valuable asset. Communication is central before, during, and after a disaster. Include emergency information in newsletters, on your company intranet, in periodic employee e-mails and/or other communication tools.
Practice the Emergency Plan
Some disasters will require employees to leave the workplace quickly. The ability to evacuate workers, consumers, and visitors effectively can save lives. If your business operates out of more than one location, establish evacuation procedures for each individual building. If your company is in a high-rise building, an industrial park, or even a strip mall, it is important to coordinate and practice with other tenants or businesses to avoid confusion and potential gridlock.
Secure Your Facility and Equipment
Install fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and detectors in appropriate places. Secure all entry and exit points and plan for mail safety. Plan what you will do if your building, plant, or store is not usable. Secure valuable equipment.
Improve Cyber Security
Protecting your data and information systems may require specialized expertise, but even the smallest business can be better prepared. Use anti-virus software and keep it up-to-date. Don't open emails from unknown sources. Use hard-to-guess passwords. Protect your computer from intruders by using firewalls. Back up your computer data and download security protection updates known as patches regularly.
Carpet Cleaning
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
Carpet cleaning is important to maintaining the overall comfort and monetary value of a property. Any type of flooring is an investment for the property owner. Keeping the investment in the best shape takes a professional, but without proper certification, the consumer cannot be guaranteed of proper education and training on updated techniques used in maintaining the value of the flooring.
There are health concerns that can arise from any unsanitary environment, and it can be surprising to learn what survives in and under the flooring. Allergens that are left behind can lead to serious health problems for family members and even household pets. Proper techniques can reduce or eliminate allergens in the environment, improving the health of the occupants.
Great strides have been made in technologies used in carpet-care. Today there are only a few basic wet and dry methodologies accepted by the industry leaders. Ensuring consistently high standards means understanding how the certifying body works to guarantee better results at lower costs.
Proper maintenance begins with regular vacuuming using a high-powered machine. Over time normal wear and tear leads to a dull, soiled appearance. Proper maintenance by the occupants can help keep the flooring looking good, but there comes a time when a certified technician has to be called to get to the really deep grime a normal household vacuum can miss.
While regular maintenance is beneficial to the healthfulness and attractiveness of a home or office, a certified technician is necessary to take care of the really deep jobs regular vacuuming misses. Consumers often find it difficult to choose a professional company for those important household chores. The benefits of carpet cleaning are numerous, but knowing who can be trusted is not always easy.
That's where we come in! Just give us a call @ (269) 963-3033 and we'll help you in any way that we can, whether that be by offering our carpet cleaning services or just answering any questions you may have.
SERVPRO is IICRC Certified
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
Water damage can be deceptive. Water penetrates into structural cavities creating trapped pockets of saturation. The detection of water in these areas can often only be discovered with sophisticated moisture detection meters. Undetected moisture will continue to cause damage. This damage, at a minimum, will cause odors. Greater damage will surface when materials delaminate, shrink, split and further deteriorate to where costly repairs are required.
More than just removing excess water, IICRC-certified restorers have the knowledge and equipment to further dry a home or facility (including substructure materials) completely back to preloss conditions. Through timely response and the careful monitoring of water damage, mold and other health issues can be prevented. If water damage has been present too long, mold will occur.
All IICRC-certified professionals have the training and experience to identify moisture sources, evaluate mold growth (visible or suspected), contain damage, remove contamination and dry materials to ensure that mold will not return.
Were You Aware There Are Different Types Of Smoke?
4/9/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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.
Did you know there are two different types of smoke? There is wet smoke and dry smoke. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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.
So give us a call! We are ready to put our knowledge, experience, and equipment to work for you! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help make things "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Is The Flood & Storm Damage Restoration Specialists
4/9/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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 Calhoun County, MI, 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.
Should you find yourself in need of after storm services call 269-963-3033.
We are faster to ay disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Is Your 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Restoration Service
4/4/2022 (Permalink)
Why SERVPRO of North Calhoun County you ask yourself?
Faster to any and all disasters IS the answer! Our certified technicians are ready at a moments notice to come and assist you, not only to help with clean up, but to help sort through and relocate valuables and memorabilia and help you secure your items and help keep them protected.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County's technicians are certified to mitigate your loss and restore your home to the preloss condition you are used to.
Morning, noon or night, even on holidays, call us and we will be there for you, our mission is to deliver the best customer service possible.
Should you experience water intrusion contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun County at 269-963-3033.
Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause Extensive Damage
4/4/2022 (Permalink)
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 North Calhoun County 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.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 269-963-3033
Water Extraction Is Only ONE Call Away - To SERVPRO
2/18/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Calhoun County.
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and nor do we. SERVPRO 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 can be very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of North Calhoun will arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
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 bio-hazard contamination is possible.
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth, and bio-hazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun 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.
Do Your Windows Have Frost On Them?
2/18/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
Window frost, it can be beautiful but it can also be damaging. So what causes window frost and how can you help to prevent it?
Window frost forms when the windows are exposed to the cold outside and moist air inside. Moisture in the rooms air(water vapor) is drawn to the window pane and when the outside temp drops past the dew point the water vapor begins to solidify, turning into liquid. This liquid then freezes into ice crystals and you've got frost.
Frost can cause damage. As it melts it transfers moisture to whatever is next to it, if that happens to be a wooden window it can discolor varnish and even crack the paint or damage the wood. Frost can also melt off single pane windows and seep down into a wall. If not handled swiftly and completely mold can begin to grow.
So what steps can you take to prevent window frost?
- Weatherize your windows when it starts to get cold. Make sure storm windows are installed properly and caulk any gaps in the seals.
- Run a dehumidifier. Drier air inside the home is less likely to allow frost to form.
- Keeping your home sufficiently warm, especially at night, helps to keep frost from forming. if you have a room that's especially prone to frost on the windows, it may be worth it to run a space heater in that room to see if that solves the problem.
- If all else fails, you may need to consider replacing all single pane windows in your home.
For more information on winter safety or information on mold growth and prevention call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County. We're available 24-hours to help make it "Like it never even happened." at 269-963-3033
What Is Biohazard Remediation? SERVPRO Is Here To Answer This!
1/5/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is trained to safely and effectively remove bio hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal.
Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazards can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.Here are some quick Do’s and Don’ts if you ever encounter a situation where you might be exposed to a biohazard or trauma situation:
Do:
- Stay out of affected areas, you do not want to track any fluids by stepping in it.
- Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
- Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
Don’t:
- Attempt to do any clean up yourself.
- Touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is trained to safely and effectively remove bio hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.
If You Are the Victim of Storm Damage Here's What To Do
1/5/2022 (Permalink)
The best way to do that is to get a storm restoration and water restoration company to take care of your storm remediation.
Storm damage can occur to anyone. It can happen in any climate. Storms cause river flooding and other forms of flooding. They cause wind damage, hail damage, and hurricane damage. Winter storms bring ice dams and ice damming, which cause roof leaks, forcing you to get roof repairs done. Ice damage also comes in the form of frozen pipes. Groundwater and flood water can ruin your basement and home. You need to take steps towards home restoration. The best way to do that is to get a storm restoration and water restoration company to take care of your storm remediation.
Make sure to make an emergency call to the storm restoration and water restoration company right away.
The first thing that the storm restoration and water restoration company will do is assess the extent of the storm damage, wind damage, roof damage, roof leaks, and any other sort of damage. They will create a plan of action for your home restoration needs.
Next, they will start fixing and removing the cause of the damage. Often, there will be hidden moisture under tiles or behind walls. They will use equipment that removes this water from your home.
The next step, after your home is completely dry, is to repair things that are broken. This starts with roof repair. If there are roof leaks and roof damage, they will do a roof repair job to repair those leaks. If wind damage caused your walls or ceiling to cave in, they will repair that as well. They may need to replace certain items. For example, they may need to use new boards or tiles for your ceiling, floor, and walls. If there is ice damage, such as a frozen pipe, they will repair that as well. Home restoration, or bringing your home back to livable conditions again, is a vital part of storm remediation.
Your Home Is Your Largest Investment, What Happens When Disaster Hits?
1/5/2022 (Permalink)
If disaster strikes your home or business, be sure to remember to call SERVPRO® of North Calhoun at 269-963-3033
Your home is likely the biggest investment that you will ever make and one that holds a lifetime of memories.
What happens if you wake up to see 2 inches of water in your kitchen? What would you do? Do you know who you would call?
We are SERVPRO® of North Calhoun and we have been serving homeowners and businesses like you since 1967.
As a leader in the field of water damage repair and restoration, our crews are trained to help you when disaster strikes, they will help walk you through the drying process and help to make it #LikeItNeverEvenHappened.
If disaster strikes your home or business, be sure to remember to call SERVPRO® of North Calhoun at 269-963-3033
SERVPRO Is IICRC Certified!
12/31/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County IICRC Certified, here ready to help. 269-963-3033
Our technicians and production managers are not the only team members at SERVPRO who have to understand the process of drying a house out from a water damage. On March 21st to the 23rd two of our new administrative specialists traveled to Novi Michigan to become IICRC Water Certified. For three long days they learned difference of water losses, how many dehumidifiers and air movers is needed for each room, and what happens when they are not taken care of properly.
After a review on the last day they were tested on everything they learned in class. An hour and a half later they finally finished their test. They left beautiful Novi and headed back home with high hopes of passing their class like so many of our other team members at SERVPRO.
Mold Is Extremely Dangerous To Your Health & Home
12/31/2021 (Permalink)
Mold is commonly found on the framing behind your drywall.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County will come to your home and offer a free evaluation to see if you have mold in your home. This is extremely important as mold can be very dangerous to your health and can cause extreme damage to your homes structure as well as contents.
Mold will spread throughout your entire home with the slightest movement of air. This can literally cause your entire home to become infested with mold before you are even aware there is mold. It is crucial for you to contact professional help to ensure that it is not behind the walls of your home affecting the integrity of your home's structure.
Call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County today if you smell a musky odor or see something that you think could be mold for a free inspection. It never hurts to be on the safe side and make sure you and your family are breathing clean air and your health is not being imposed on by mold, as most molds are common sources of respiratory conditions.
When Winter Comes, Your Pipes Need To Be Ready!
12/11/2021 (Permalink)
A seasonal guide to Michigan winters...
FROZEN OR BURST PIPES:
There are preventative measures that can be taken to keep this winter woe away, some of these are…
- Disconnect hoses and/or any other attachments you may have connected to your water/plumbing system.
- Insulate pipes with any of these type of items: heat tape, wraps or Styrofoam.
- If your pipes seem too cold to the touch, then turn the heat up in your home to allow the vents to provide more heat for them.
- Open cabinets and enclosures to allow more heat exposure.
- When leaving for extended periods of time, turn off water and drain pipes.
- If your pipes have just frozen and are not yet damaged, try to heat them with a blow dryer or low heat setting along the area of pipe that is frozen.
KEEP THE COLD AIR OUT:
- ALWAYS ensure you have all of your windows and doorways/entryways sealed so there are no leaks.
HAVE YOUR SUMP PUMP INSPECTED AND CLEANED BEFORE WINTER COMES:
- Inspect your sump pump, clean it out if it is clogged and consider wrapping it with insulation. These precautions are necessary because when exposed to extreme cold these pumps can stop working and leave you with a mid-winter sewage back up in your home.
PROTECT YOUR HOT WATER HEATER:
- Keep the housing area warm by sealing it off from any drafts and increasing the temperature.
- Inspect your hot water heater for any damage or sediment build-up.
- If your water is still running cold, try to turn up the water heater's thermostat by 5 to 10 degrees... ALWAYS remember not to turn it so hot it will scald you.
SECURE YOUR CRAWL SPACE:
- Make sure all exposed pipes have been insulated as the heat coming from your home will not reach them.
Sometimes these measures are still not enough to prevent pipes from bursting or our homes from suffering water damage during the winter.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, even on holidays to assist you if a water disaster strikes your home or business.
Call us @ (269) 963-3033 for an immediate response and professional technicians that will make it “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County are the burst pipes experts!
12/6/2021 (Permalink)
FROZEN OR BURST PIPES:
There are preventative measures that can be taken to keep this winter woe away, some of these are…
- Disconnect hoses and/or any other attachments you may have connected to your water/plumbing system.
- Insulate pipes with any of these type of items: heat tape, wraps or Styrofoam.
- If your pipes seem too cold to the touch, then turn the heat up in your home to allow the vents to provide more heat for them.
- Open cabinets and enclosures to allow more heat exposure.
- When leaving for extended periods of time, turn off water and drain pipes.
- If your pipes have just frozen and are not yet damaged, try to heat them with a blow dryer or low heat setting along the area of pipe that is frozen.
KEEP THE COLD AIR OUT:
- ALWAYS ensure you have all of your windows and doorways/entryways sealed so there are no leaks.
HAVE YOUR SUMP PUMP INSPECTED AND CLEANED BEFORE WINTER COMES:
- Inspect your sump pump, clean it out if it is clogged and consider wrapping it with insulation. These precautions are necessary because when exposed to extreme cold these pumps can stop working and leave you with a mid-winter sewage back up in your home.
PROTECT YOUR HOT WATER HEATER:
- Keep the housing area warm by sealing it off from any drafts and increasing the temperature.
- Inspect your hot water heater for any damage or sediment build-up.
- If your water is still running cold, try to turn up the water heater's thermostat by 5 to 10 degrees... ALWAYS remember not to turn it so hot it will scald you.
SECURE YOUR CRAWL SPACE:
- Make sure all exposed pipes have been insulated as the heat coming from your home will not reach them.
Sometimes these measures are still not enough to prevent pipes from bursting or our homes from suffering water damage during the winter.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, even on holidays to assist you if a water disaster strikes your home or business.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun Are The Mold Experts!
12/6/2021 (Permalink)
Mold can grow under a multitude of conditions present in our buildings every day. Moisture, however, is the foremost factor that causes mold growth. After all of the recent flooding through central Michigan, mold can be an enormous concern for businesses and homeowners. If standing water is left unattended is not extracted quickly, mold growth and damage can be the result, causing unforeseen expenses.
If homeowners or business owners experience any mold damage to their properties and belongings, it is beneficial to contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun immediately. Mold spores live and grow through moisture and high levels of humidity. If these conditions are left unaddressed, in a time frame within 48 hours, mold will continue to grow and spread. These fungi can also produce a musty odor. We specialize in water and mold mitigation and restoration. Our advanced mold remediation equipment and restoration processes, as well as our certified technicians to help to detect and handle the source of the water problem.
Call SERVPRO of North Calhoun with any questions that you may have. We are available with 24-hour emergency service – including holidays. We are locally owned and operated, which means when you call us, we can respond quickly with the help that you need. Don't try to tackle a mold situation yourself call the pros at SERVPRO. (269) 963-3033.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun Is Your #1 Call For Storm Damage
10/20/2021 (Permalink)
Aftermath of torrential storm damage. SERVPRO of North Calhoun was called to assist in clean up and restoration.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun 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, personnel and equipment, 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 Battle Creek and nearby areas, 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, (269) 963-3033
Don't Let Water Damage Slow You Down! Get Control Back!
10/20/2021 (Permalink)
A minor water leak can increase your repair bills. But the good news is that you can easily prevent such situations.
Do you know that water leaks can highly affect the sale of your home? What's more, they can be a concern for new home buyers. However, most homeowners are usually unaware of the hidden leaks. With cracked pipes, leaking spigot and broken seals water will easily creep into some places it isn't meant to go. The end results will be more visible damages which include rot, damaged flooring, and blistered paint.
A minor water leak can increase your repair bills. But the good news is that you can easily prevent such situations. Noticing a sagging ceiling above your dining room table is easier. When looking for water damages you have to remember that these damages rarely turn up at the water source.
Some damages to expect
- Mold and mildew growth. With water leaks, you should also expect an unhealthy environment.
- Permanent water damages to carpets, wood, wallpapers, furnishing and paint.
- Contaminated systems – including the ductwork.
- Insulation and drywall which need replacement and removal.
- If there is water trapped somewhere in your house, poor airflow will become a major problem.
But don't worry, our technicians At SERVPRO of North Calhoun are always ready to check out problems and offer solutions.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun Is Here 24/7 For Your Water Emergency
10/13/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County providing emergency services, extracting water from a flooded basement floor.
SERVPRO OF North Calhoun County makes ourselves available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. Should you find yourself confronted with a water loss, fast and responsive action is vital. Prolonging mitigation of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of water damage.
Phones are always on 269-963-3033
SERVPRO understands that when you are reaching out for help with your water loss, you may be feeling confused, worried, and possibly helpless. You need an expert to help navigate you through this difficult time. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County has certified water damage training for just this type of situation. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
Leave it to us;
Once you place a call to us, we will ask a few questions, in regards to your water loss. This allows us to better assess the services you are in need of and what resources we might need to bring.
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 SERVPRO of North Calhoun County
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County specializes in water mitigation and restoration of residential and commercial property. 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.
When Water Overwhelms Your Basement, SERVPRO Is Here For You!
10/8/2021 (Permalink)
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 North Calhoun County 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
Have More Questions about Basement Flooding?Call Today - 269-963-3033 SERVPRO of North Calhoun County will be happy to help.
We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to “Like it never even happened.”
Why SERVPRO? We are the storm recovery professionals!
10/7/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Even specialty services such as boarding up after trees fall. 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. Quicker response time lessens the damage, limits further damage, and can help reduce restoration costs.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms or high winds hit North Calhoun County and the surrounding area, 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 269-963-3033
Water got you down? SERVPRO is here to help!
10/7/2021 (Permalink)
Can you imagine coming home on a sunny afternoon, opening your door walking into your living room and finding it flooded. It happens, when it does SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is ready to respond. We are ready to go any time of day or night.
Our technician are thoroughly trained and IICRC certified to quickly respond and mitigate the loss to quality standards set by the industry. Our technicians will communicate with you every step of the way and answering any questions you may have.
Leaving your home looking as if the loss never even happened. Delivering exceptional customer satisfaction for each and every customer.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always here and happy to help. If you should find you are in need of service call - 269-963-3033.
Smoke and Soot Cleanup Is Just One Call Away To SERVPRO of North Calhoun
10/1/2021 (Permalink)
Smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions - call us today!
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 North Calhoun will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (269) 963-3033
Have Smoke Damage and Need Fire Restoration? Call SERVPRO!
9/28/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun has all of the above. Call us today!
The fire trucks may be gone but without proper immediate response, the real damage and the costs are just beginning. To return your residential or commercial property to its preloss condition requires professional restoration. This is not the job for a do-it-yourself property owner.
For results you can have confidence in, the IICRC recommends hiring a certified restoration firm. Restoration to a property can be complex. Proper smoke and odor removal are tasks that require technicians certified in these specific areas.
When selecting a certified restoration firm several factors must be considered:
- Formal and up-to-date specialized training
- Health and safety certifications
- Experience in a wide range of restoration projects
- Proof of proper insurance and licenses
SERVPRO of North Calhoun has all of the above. Call us today!
Biohazard: What To Do Until Help Arrives
9/28/2021 (Permalink)
Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean & safe!
Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazards can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.
Here are some quick Do’s and Don’ts if you ever encounter a situation where you might be exposed to a biohazard or trauma situation:
Do:
- Stay out of affected areas, you do not want to track any fluids by stepping in it.
- Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
- Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
Don’t:
- Attempt to do any clean up yourself.
- Touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is trained to safely and effectively remove bio hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.
SERVPRO Wants You To Be Safe & Prepared During A Flood! Check This Out!
9/28/2021 (Permalink)
Remain safe during a flood! Know the dangers, your surroundings and your resources. SERVPRO of North Calhoun is always here to help!
SERVPRO of North Calhoun wants you to be prepared in the event of a flood.
According the Red Cross 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!
Know the Difference!
A flood/flash flood WATCH means a flood or flash flood is possible.
A flood/flash flood WARNING means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon. TAKE IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONS!
HAVE A PLAN:
- Talk with your family about what to do if a flood watch or warning is issued. Discussing floods ahead of time helps reduce fear, especially for younger children.
- Make sure you have access to NOAA radio broadcasts:
- Find an online NOAA radio station
- Search for a NOAA radio app in the Apple Store or Google Play
- Purchase a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA radio in the Red Cross Store
- Find out if local streams or rivers flood easily.
- Ensure that every member of your family carries a Safe and Well Wallet Card
- Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box. You may need quick, easy access to these documents. Keep them in a safe place less likely to be damaged during a flood. Take pictures on a phone and keep copies of important documents and files on a flash drive that you can carry with you on your house or car keys.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is available 24/7 269-963-3033, just a phone call away and always willing to help.
SERVPRO Wants You To Be Safe & Prepared During A Flood! Check This Out!
9/28/2021 (Permalink)
Remain safe during a flood! Know the dangers, your surroundings and your resources. SERVPRO of North Calhoun is always here to help!
SERVPRO of North Calhoun wants you to be prepared in the event of a flood.
According the Red Cross 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!
Know the Difference!
A flood/flash flood WATCH means a flood or flash flood is possible.
A flood/flash flood WARNING means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon. TAKE IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONS!
HAVE A PLAN:
- Talk with your family about what to do if a flood watch or warning is issued. Discussing floods ahead of time helps reduce fear, especially for younger children.
- Make sure you have access to NOAA radio broadcasts:
- Find an online NOAA radio station
- Search for a NOAA radio app in the Apple Store or Google Play
- Purchase a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA radio in the Red Cross Store
- Find out if local streams or rivers flood easily.
- Ensure that every member of your family carries a Safe and Well Wallet Card
- Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box. You may need quick, easy access to these documents. Keep them in a safe place less likely to be damaged during a flood. Take pictures on a phone and keep copies of important documents and files on a flash drive that you can carry with you on your house or car keys.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is available 24/7 269-963-3033, just a phone call away and always willing to help.
Leave Smoke Damage Clean Up To The Professionals - SERVPRO!
9/28/2021 (Permalink)
When your business operations are interrupted by fire or water damage, you need professional help to get your property back to business.
When it comes to cleaning smoked-damaged contents after a residential or commercial fire, the variety of contents in a typical job requires restorers to utilize a variety of cleaning methods. Here is a quick description of each method of content cleaning:
Dry Cleaning - Removes light to medium nongrease-based soils.
Wet Cleaning - Removes moderate to heavy residues. The process involves cleaning using water, with or without a cleaning agent.
Spray and Wipe - Apply a cleaning product using a spray bottle. After spraying, wipe the surface with a clean white towel. This method is effective for materials possibly damaged if saturated with cleaning product.
Foam Cleaning - Effective for light residues or delicate materials. Clean with the foam of a cleaning agent rather than the liquid
Abrasive Cleaning - Agitates the surface being cleaned. Apply a cleaning product containing abrasive ingredients
Immersion Cleaning - Dipping contents items into a bath of cleaning product. This bath is an ultrasonic tank filled with water and cleaning solution. High-frequency sound waves then create high temperatures and microscopic jet streams of fluid to agitate and scrub contents. SERVPRO recommends that you
DO NOT attempt to clean smoke-damaged surfaces or contents yourself.
Call the professionals! SERVPRO of North Calhoun (269)-963-3033
SERVPRO Tips: How to Keep Your Valuables Safe From Fire Damage
9/28/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun will help you through the process of a fire loss and your valuables that were damaged.
First Step: Itemizing and Photographing
We know how important it is to keep your valuables safe. Some are irreplaceable. The first step in keeping your valuables safe is listing and photographing. Keep this information in a safe place. Then in the event of a fire contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun to help, they will begin to work with your insurance and walk you through the steps of either restoration or creating write off lists.
What SERVPRO Can Do
If your home does suffer from a fire, SERVPRO can help make it “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO of North Calhoun specializes in restoring contents damaged by fire. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced.
SERVPRO Wants To Know? Have You Had Your Battle Creek Business Had Their Carpets Cleaned Yet?
9/27/2021 (Permalink)
Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet!
It is a good standing practice to have your carpets professionally cleaned at least twice a year. How often you get them cleaned is going to depend on the color, traffic, and soil build-up of your carpets.
Carpets are known to trap dust, dirt, gasses, pet hair, and other soils. SERVPRO of North Calhoun recommends to not wait until your carpet looks beyond repair before cleaning. Since dirt builds up in layers, you do not want the dirt lingering below the surface to become lodged and damage your carpet.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun offers multiple cleaning options that fit your upholstery or carpet in your business. Some of our specialized cleaning methods include:
- Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
- Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
- Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
- Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
- Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.
Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning?
Call Today –(269)-963-3033
Did You Know How To Reduce Business Interruption After Disaster Strikes?
9/20/2021 (Permalink)
If your business experiences a water loss, call SERVPRO for fire and water damage restoration experts!
Did you know that SERVPRO of North Calhoun has a dedicated team to handle commercial emergencies? Water damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. Every hours spent restoring your business back to preloss condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If your business experiences a water loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts and we’ll respond immediately to get you back to business.
Our commercial response team has the experience and knowledge to help guide our clients through the claims process, while performing services around the clock if necessary to bring the business back to operational status as quickly as possible. Even a small loss can shut your business down for several days or weeks if not taken care of properly. Contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun today for an appointment for a free assessment and Emergency Ready Profile.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is the Best for Commercial Cleaning and Commercial Damage Restoration
9/20/2021 (Permalink)
Please call today for a quote (269)-963-3033; we would be happy to arrange services on a reoccurring basis for you as well.
Did you know SERVPRO is not just for disasters such as floods, water damage, or fires in the home? We also help Commercial Businesses!
SERVPRO of North Calhoun technicians are certified to clean and sanitize: Upholstery, Carpeting, Flooring, and other hard surfaces. SERVPRO of North Calhoun is even certified to remove bio-hazard contaminants. Such as blood, urine, feces, and other impurities, that other vendors may not offer services to remedy. Refresh your carpeting and office cubical. SERVPRO of North Calhoun also specializes in odor removal and deodorization!
Additionally, SERVPRO is available after hours if services are needed when customers and/or clients are not present.
SERVPRO means reliable, certified professionals will show up at your door and handle any cleaning or restoration needs you may have.
Give us a call today- we are always happy to help (269)-963-3033
SERVPRO Tips - What To Do If Floods Occur
9/20/2021 (Permalink)
Following a flood should you be in need of service call SERVPRO of North Calhoun, 269-963-3033. We are always here to help.
Flooding is a temporary overflowing of water onto land that is normally dry. Flooding may happen with only a few inches of water, or it may cover a house to the rooftop. There are many possible causes of floods including heavy rain or snow melt, coastal storms and storm surge, waterway overflow from being blocked with debris or ice, or overflow of levees, dams, or waste water systems, Flooding can occur slowly over many days or happen very quickly with little or no warning, called flash floods.
Flooding can occur during every season, but some areas of the country are at greater risk at certain times of the year. Coastal areas are at greater risk for flooding during hurricane season, while the Midwest is more at risk in the spring and during heavy summer rains. Ice jams occur in the spring in the Northeast and Northwest.
Safety Tips
Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
Do not drive over bridges that are over fast-moving floodwaters. Floodwaters can scour foundation material from around the footings and make the bridge unstable.
Just six inches of moving water can knock you down.
If there is a chance of flash flooding, immediately move to higher ground. One foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. If water appears rapid and moving do not leave the car and enter moving water.
Once the floodwaters recede, if your home or business has sustained any flood damage contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun at (269)-963-3033.
When Storms Rock Your World, SERVPRO of North Calhoun County Is Here For You
9/3/2021 (Permalink)
When storms hit, water can be a huge problem for you and your home or business. Because water damage is invasive it's important to call SERVPRO of North Calhoun immediately when dealing with a flooded basement. When you call, we will ask you several questions regarding your water damage emergency.
These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources including how many certified technicians we will need to bring to the job. SERVPRO of North Calhoun has the expertise and equipment to mitigate residency losses like this one. The quicker our certified technicians get on the job site the less water is absorbed by floors walls and furniture. Call SERVPRO at 269-963-3033 for any of your water emergencies!
What To Do When Water Damage Affects YOUR Business!
8/26/2021 (Permalink)
So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
Dealing with water damage at your business can be difficult. Whether age, damage, or cold weather is causing bursting pipes, taking quick action could reduce repair costs and save valuable inventory. Once a pipe break occurs, there are a few steps you can take to protect your commercial property and its contents.
Shut Off the Main Water Supply
Once you realize a pipe in your building has burst, it is wise to locate and turn off the main water supply valve. This can reduce the amount of flooding that can otherwise occur. You may want to be aware of the location of the shutoff switch beforehand so you can stem the flow of water as quickly as possible. If you rent your commercial space, ask your landlord about the location of the main water supply valve and alert any managers to its location in case a bursting pipes emergency takes place when you are not present.
Seal Off Affected Areas
You can reduce water damage to adjacent areas by shutting or sealing off doors. For example, if a pipe burst in a restroom, you can seal the bottom of the door with towels to prevent water leakage. Ask your employees and customers to clear the area so you can be assured flooded rooms remain secure until professionals can examine and fix broken pipe components.
Call in a Water Damage Remediation Service
A burst pipe can cause a great deal of trouble in a matter of minutes; however, other issues, such as mold growth and warped building materials, can be prevented by calling a flood control and remediation service to inspect and repair your property. Water damage can be common during cold weather snaps, so it is a good idea to have a working relationship with this type of service if you own a business.
One or more bursting pipes at your business can have serious consequences on your equipment or inventory. Knowing which immediate steps to take afterward can help you minimize damage and the cost of future repairs.
So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of North Calhoun Got The Job Done Just In Time!
8/17/2021 (Permalink)
Local school's lockers and classroom, SERVPRO of North Calhoun was able to assist with mold remediation and restoration in time for school start up.
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 North Calhoun County
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage, fire or even mold remediation 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.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always here and ready to help. 269-963-3033
Storms Can Hit Anyone at Anytime, But SERVPRO of North Calhoun County Is Here For You 24/7/365
4/7/2021 (Permalink)
Storm damage can occur to anyone. It can happen in any climate. Storms cause river flooding and other forms of flooding. They cause wind damage, hail damage, and hurricane damage. Winter storms bring ice dams and ice damming, which cause roof leaks, forcing you to get roof repairs done. Ice damage also comes in the form of frozen pipes. Groundwater and flood water can ruin your basement and home. You need to take steps towards home restoration. The best way to do that is to get a storm restoration and water restoration company to take care of your storm remediation.
Make sure to make an emergency call to the storm restoration and water restoration company right away.
The first thing that the storm restoration and water restoration company will do is assess the extent of the storm damage, wind damage, roof damage, roof leaks, and any other sort of damage. They will create a plan of action for your home restoration needs.
Next, they will start fixing and removing the cause of the damage. Often, there will be hidden moisture under tiles or behind walls. They will use equipment that removes this water from your home.
The next step, after your home is completely dry, is to repair things that are broken. This starts with roof repair. If there are roof leaks and roof damage, they will do a roof repair job to repair those leaks. If wind damage caused your walls or ceiling to cave in, they will repair that as well. They may need to replace certain items. For example, they may need to use new boards or tiles for your ceiling, floor, and walls. If there is ice damage, such as a frozen pipe, they will repair that as well. Home restoration, or bringing your home back to livable conditions again, is a vital part of storm remediation.
So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
14 Bad Habits That Can Start A Fire (Part 2)
4/6/2021 (Permalink)
House fires are more common than you may realize, with potential fire starters like light bulbs, laptops and lint traps hiding in plain sight throughout your home, disguised as harmless everyday necessities. Join us today as we look at the second 1/2 of our list of things you shouldn't be doing that can cause a fire!
Are you guilty of these bad habits that could start a fire in your home?
Misusing Electric Blankets: A warm and cozy electric blanket is a welcome comfort in the winter but, it also poses a potential fire hazard. Never allow pets to snuggle on top and don't pile extra covers over the electric blanket. Excessive heat builds up may lead to a fire. Never bend the coils, always keep your blanket at it's lowest setting and always turn it off in the morning.
Piling up dirty rags: A wood stain may be the perfect finishing touch on a DIY project, but later on, that pile of oil-soaked rags you tossed in the corner could trigger the perfect storm. Those rags are a very real fire hazard if left unattended. The rags could oxidize and spontaneously combust, causing a house fire. Two proper ways to dispose of oily rags are to lay them flat outside to dry or to put them in a metal can filled with water and a tight fitting lid.
Neglecting appliance recalls: Home appliances have caused an estimated 150,000 fires each year, just during the last decade! A significant number of these were caused by faulty appliances. You can visit www.recalls.gov or register your appliance with the manufacturer to keep on top of recalls and prevent disaster.
Lingering dryer lint: We're sure you know emptying the lint screen increases your dryer's efficiency, but did you know that lint is flammable? The combination of lint buildup and excessive heat is a recipe for disaster. Make sure to clean the interior of the dryer frame as well as the dryer vent and exhaust duct regularly to clear away lint and clogs and to reduce the risk of fire.
Letting your laptop overheat: If you own a laptop, you know how hot it can get, Leaving your computer on your bed, chair, rug or another soft flammable surface, you increase the risk of restricting airflow through the cooling vents. This can cause your laptop to overheat and possibly catch fire. Keeping your laptop on a desk or table will help prevent fires.
Choosing the wrong wattage: If you've ever thought "It's okay to use this 60-watt bulb in this 40-watt socket" you're not alone. However, you are putting your home at risk. A leading cause of electrical fires is using a light bulb with a wattage that is too high for a lamp or light fixture. Always check the light fixtures maximum wattage and never go over the recommended rating.
Using too many extension cords: Extension cords are meant to be a temporary response to a lack of electrical outlets; not a permanent solution. The reason why is this: connecting a large number of cords for a significant amount of time causes an overload that will lead to a short circuit - which could start a fire. Hiring a qualified electrician to install additional outlets could help you avoid this problem altogether.
If you find yourself in need of restoration after a fire, call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County. We're available 24-hours at 269-963-3033!
We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
Here to help, 24/7/365!
4/1/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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. Causing a larger monetary damage to you the customer or insurance claim.
SERVPRO can pull from a variety of resources, one of which is our SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team, who can be dispatched on the scene in a minimal amount of time. These are the resources SERVPRO of North Calhoun County reaches out to call on in the event of large industrial/commercial water losses. They are ready for whatever happens!!
Please remember to give SERVPRO a call, always here to help 269-963-3033.
14 Bad Habits That Can Start A Fire (Part 1)
4/1/2021 (Permalink)
House fires are more common than you may realize, with potential fire starters like light bulbs, laptops and lint traps hiding in plain sight throughout your home, disguised as harmless everyday necessities. Join us today as we look at the first 1/2 of our list of things you shouldn't be doing that can cause a fire!
Are you guilty of these bad habits that could start a fire in your home?
Misusing Electric Blankets: A warm and cozy electric blanket is a welcome comfort in the winter but, it also poses a potential fire hazard. Never allow pets to snuggle on top and don't pile extra covers over the electric blanket. Excessive heat builds up may lead to a fire. Never bend the coils, always keep your blanket at it's lowest setting and always turn it off in the morning.
Piling up dirty rags: A wood stain may be the perfect finishing touch on a DIY project, but later on, that pile of oil-soaked rags you tossed in the corner could trigger the perfect storm. Those rags are a very real fire hazard if left unattended. The rags could oxidize and spontaneously combust, causing a house fire. Two proper ways to dispose of oily rags are to lay them flat outside to dry or to put them in a metal can filled with water and a tight fitting lid.
Neglecting appliance recalls: Home appliances have caused an estimated 150,000 fires each year, just during the last decade! A significant number of these were caused by faulty appliances. You can visit www.recalls.gov or register your appliance with the manufacturer to keep on top of recalls and prevent disaster.
Lingering dryer lint: We're sure you know emptying the lint screen increases your dryer's efficiency, but did you know that lint is flammable? The combination of lint buildup and excessive heat is a recipe for disaster. Make sure to clean the interior of the dryer frame as well as the dryer vent and exhaust duct regularly to clear away lint and clogs and to reduce the risk of fire.
Letting your laptop overheat: If you own a laptop, you know how hot it can get, Leaving your computer on your bed, chair, rug or another soft flammable surface, you increase the risk of restricting airflow through the cooling vents. This can cause your laptop to overheat and possibly catch fire. Keeping your laptop on a desk or table will help prevent fires.
Choosing the wrong wattage: If you've ever thought "It's okay to use this 60-watt bulb in this 40-watt socket" you're not alone. However, you are putting your home at risk. A leading cause of electrical fires is using a light bulb with a wattage that is too high for a lamp or light fixture. Always check the light fixtures maximum wattage and never go over the recommended rating.
Using too many extension cords: Extension cords are meant to be a temporary response to a lack of electrical outlets; not a permanent solution. The reason why is this: connecting a large number of cords for a significant amount of time causes an overload that will lead to a short circuit - which could start a fire. Hiring a qualified electrician to install additional outlets could help you avoid this problem altogether.
DIY projects you're not qualified to perform: Americas will spend about $200 billion fixing up their homes this year and nearly a fifth of that will go toward DIY projects. Jobs involving electrical wiring, plumbing and HVAC units should never be completed without a qualified professional. Gas leaks and electrical sparks result from improper installation and are a common cause of house fires. Hire a licensed professional instead of attempting dangerous DIYS on your own to avoid putting your family and home at risk.
Disregarding dust: Built-up dust can be a fire hazard if it collects in and around electrical sockets, electronics, and even floor heaters. Vacuuming regularly, especially behind electronics, will significantly reduce the chance of dust particles catching fire.
Improperly storing batteries: Storing 9-volt batteries in your kitchen junk drawer might be putting your home and family at risk. When loose batteries roll around with other metals such as paper clips or screws, the two terminals could short out, possibly generating enough heat to ignite flammables nearby. If storing the batteries in the original package isn't an option, place a piece of electrical tape over the terminal to prevent this possibility.
Ignoring unwanted guests: Rodents like mice and rats like to chew on electrical wires to control the length of their teeth. Over time, they can remove the sheathing, this leaves the wires exposed. The electrical current traveling through the wire generates heat and if the wire is exposed this could lead to sparks, which in turn could ignite the surrounding surface. Call an exterminator if you suspect you have rodents.
Forgetting the chimney sweep: There are common cause of chimney fires, such as dead birds, raccoon nests, cracked mortar, and built-up creosote. The National Fire Protection Assoc. recommends a professional chimney sweep at least once a year. Also, when building a fire in your fireplace, never light it with kerosene. Always use an approved fire starter.
Overlooking the range hood: Ovens and cooktops are the most common sources of kitchen fires. But, range hoods are also a potential threat. Grease builds up over time and can drip down onto the cooktop, possibly starting a fire. These flames could easily reach your cabinets and before you know it your kitchen could be engulfed. Regularly clean and maintain your range hood to keep your kitchen out of harm's way.
Unwisely arranging furniture: Furniture placed too close to a wood stove could spontaneously ignite. Pyrolysis is the chemical decomposition of a combustible item. This occurs when an object is continually exposed to a heat source and dries out. This leading-yet seldom considered the cause of fires doesn't even require a direct flame. It only takes heat and time
If you find yourself in need of restoration after a fire, call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County. We're available 24-hours at 269-963-3033
Why SERVPRO? We specialize in helping with the unforeseen!
2/11/2021 (Permalink)
Within minutes after the water intrusion has begun, the water spreads quickly through home or business. It will saturate everything within in its path.
Water can be absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and personal belongings. Permanent staining can occur on textiles and carpet. Sentimental items such as photos, books, documents can swell, making them unsalvageable.
In as little as 1 to 24 hours drywall begins to swell and break down, metal will start the onset of tarnishing. Your household furniture can begin to swell and crack. Musty odors will begin to become apparent.
In 48 hours to one week, mold and mildew may grow and rapidly spread. Doors, windows, and studs start to swell and warp, causing structural issues. Metal will corrode and begin rusting. Furniture will warp, as well as start showing signs of mold. The paint will blister. Wood flooring starts swelling and blistering. Not to mention, serious biohazard contamination is possible.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is always happy to help.
When Water Damage Strikes In North Calhoun County, SERVPRO Is Here For You!
2/11/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County understands that when reach out to us in a time of crisis, you may are experiencing feelings confusion, stress, and vulnerability. This is a time you are in need of a professional to help guide you through this stressful time. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County has the water training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the driving force of our business.
Here's What You Can Expect
When you call, we will pertinent questions regarding your water loss. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO professionals may be needed.
Questions You Will Encounter:
- 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)?
About SERVPRO of North Calhoun County
SERVPRO of SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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.
Ask The Experts: Should I call a Pro To Fix Storm Damage?
12/18/2020 (Permalink)
After a storm moves through the area, your home may suffer flood damage, wind damage, and more. The situation may leave your home or commercial building devastated. However, if you act quickly and contact the professionals right away, you can minimize the possibility of secondary damage while restoring anything that has suffered more serious problems.
Why Contact the Professionals?
Contacting the professionals at SERVPRO means you have access to experienced and skilled individuals who have restored homes and commercial buildings through the years. They have access to advanced equipment along with cutting-edge techniques to handle any storm flood damage that may occur.
After flooding has occurred, it isn’t unusual to find interior water damage to the kitchen cabinets, clothing, furniture, floors, ceilings, walls, and other areas in the building or home. If you don’t restore the property properly, flood damage can cause mold infestation and decay. There are several services you can count on the professionals to provide. These include:
- Prompt Response: These professionals understand that when you call for help with flood or storm-related damage restoration, timing is critical. This is why they respond to any emergency quickly. The restoration process can begin right away, and the best and most efficient solutions will be used.
- Help with Insurance Claims: These professionals will offer a service that involves listing anything that was ruined during the flood or storm in a detailed list. They will also take an inventory of all the contents in every room.
- Use Professional Grade Tools and Equipment: In most cases, the rental equipment you get from the hardware store may not be able to handle the job effectively. These professionals have access to commercial-grade equipment that will completely dry the affected areas to ensure the growth of mold is avoided.
- Removal and Replacement: These professionals will carefully remove or replace any contaminated or unsalvageable structures, such as window trim, door, drywall, padding, and carpeting.
If disaster strikes, give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
Why SERVPRO of North Calhoun County you ask yourself? Read On!
12/15/2020 (Permalink)
Faster to any and all disasters IS the answer! Our certified technicians are ready at a moments notice to come and assist you, not only to help with clean up but to help sort through and relocate valuables and memorabilia and help you secure your items and help keep them protected.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County's technicians are certified to mitigate your loss and restore your home to the preloss condition you are used to.
Morning, noon or night, even on holidays, call us and we will be there for you, our mission is to deliver the best customer service possible.
Should you experience water intrusion contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun County at 269-963-3033.
Why SERVPRO? Mold doesn't stand a chance when we are on the job!
12/15/2020 (Permalink)
Mold development in our area is not a desirable outcome for various reasons, including the deterioration it causes to various materials. Mold remediation is an elaborate process comprising several steps.
Some challenges can also develop complicating the process further. Mold spores occur naturally in the air, which means that proliferation can happen at any time. It affects a wide range of materials, including:
Leather Items
Wood Items
Upholstery
Wallpaper
Carpets
Insulation
Safety During the Remediation Process
During or after the mold remediation processes, there is a risk of exposure to mold debris through skin contact or inhalation. Such exposure can lead to health effects. Our SERVPRO technicians take steps to minimize the chances of such contact for the team fixing the problem and the house occupants. We create physical barriers with plastic sheets and zipper-lock access, isolating the affected areas from the rest of the home. We also run negative air pressure machines when demolishing infested areas such as walls preventing the spread of spores and other debris through the air. Our skilled team can rig poly ducts, connected to air scrubbers or air movers, to channel work area interior air to the exterior of the building. This is another effort to mitigate the potential for contaminating clean areas of the structure.
Spot Stain Removal
Mold affects materials in different ways, including compromising the structural integrity by consuming the organic material as food. For contents such as upholstery, staining might occur. The staining may be classified as a color-adding type of soiling and may be reversed by removing the mold residues. Our SERVPRO technicians use spot stain removal to deal with the stains first. If necessary, we can clean the entire item using specialized upholstery cleaning equipment, which helps eliminate other soils and the musty odor from the mold.
Having the Right Cleaning Agents
Mold infestations can recur even after thorough removal efforts. Having the right cleaning agents helps suppress growth immediately after finishing the remediation process. AMRT, Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians from SERVPRO use different chemical agents to stop and delay growth. Cleaning agents with antimicrobial properties help stop current growth. We also use disinfectants such as phenols and alcohols to destroy the microorganisms.
So call us today! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
Why SERVPRO? We are the fire damage restoration experts!
12/15/2020 (Permalink)
Fire incidents cause significant financial losses in terms of damaged materials, contents, as well as secondary costs, such as seeking alternative accommodation during the restoration of your home. Having the right insurance cover can take care of the costs. However, it does not eliminate the inconveniences that fire damage incidents cause. Hiring a professional team like SERVPRO can help minimize the inconveniences in different ways.
The longer the time spent fixing fire damage issues, the more inconveniences one has to face. Some secondary problems like rusting and staining of metallic and stone surfaces develop because of the corrosive nature of soot and other smoke residues, thus driving the costs involved up. Our SERVPRO crews can work faster because we have a sufficient workforce to tackle various steps simultaneously. We also have power tools to simplify processes such as demolition of affected walls, ceilings, and floors.
Cleaning the fire-damaged property is an essential part of the restoration process. Depending on the specifics of the incidents, it might involve several sections and items. It might also involve massive deposits, especially on the contents. Among other things, cleaning requires space. Our SERVPRO crews arrange to work conveniently onsite when there is enough space and offsite if there is no room. We handle the move-out and safe offsite storage of all contents.
Since cleaning involves different aspects, including removal of dry and wet residues, stains as well as managing odor, a range of equipment is necessary to complete the tasks. Our SERVPRO teams use a wide range of equipment to deal with specific cleaning challenges. With soda blasting equipment, we can clean slightly charred materials or areas with massive residue deposits.
Ask The Experts: Tips On Storm Damage
12/6/2020 (Permalink)
Flooding is a temporary overflowing of water onto land that is normally dry. Flooding may happen with only a few inches of water, or it may cover a house to the rooftop. There are many possible causes of floods including heavy rain or snowmelt, coastal storms and storm surge, waterway overflow from being blocked with debris or ice, or overflow of levees, dams, or wastewater systems, Flooding can occur slowly over many days or happen very quickly with little or no warning, called flash floods.
Flooding can occur during every season, but some areas of the country are at greater risk at certain times of the year. Coastal areas are at greater risk for flooding during hurricane season, while the Midwest is more at risk in the spring and during heavy summer rains. Ice jams occur in the spring in the Northeast and Northwest.
SERVPRO Tips: What to do when flooding hits your home or business
10/7/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun wants you to be prepared in the event of a flood.
According to the Red Cross 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!
Know the Difference!
A flood/flash flood WATCH means a flood or flash flood is possible.
A flood/flash flood WARNING means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon. TAKE IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONS!
HAVE A PLAN:
- Talk with your family about what to do if a flood watch or warning is issued. Discussing floods ahead of time helps reduce fear, especially for younger children.
- Make sure you have access to NOAA radio broadcasts:
- Find an online NOAA radio station
- Search for an NOAA radio app in the Apple Store or Google Play
- Purchase a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA radio in the Red Cross Store
- Find out if local streams or rivers flood easily.
- Ensure that every member of your family carries a Safe and Well Wallet Card
- Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box. You may need quick, easy access to these documents. Keep them in a safe place less likely to be damaged during a flood. Take pictures on a phone and keep copies of important documents and files on a flash drive that you can carry with you on your house or car keys.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is available 24/7 269-963-3033, just a phone call away and always willing to help.
SERVPRO Tips: When tornado season is upon you
10/5/2020 (Permalink)
In Michigan, tornadoes occur from April to July and we average 16 a year. Typically a tornado is grounded for 10 minutes and travels 5 miles. In extreme cases, tornadoes are known to be grounded for an hour and travel over 100 miles.
Being prepared for tornadoes is difficult; although meteorologists are better able to predict the signs a twister is coming, they can still strike with little warning. The first step is knowing the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A tornado watch means the conditions are favorable for a tornado to happen. A tornado warning means a tornado or rotation has been spotted or picked up by radar. Even a few minutes of warning can provide an opportunity for those in harm's way to seek shelter. Communities with a history of tornado activity may have a warning siren or digital messaging system to alert residents to seek shelter. If your area doesn't have these systems, there are other signs to watch out for: a dark greenish sky/a dark, rotating, low altitude cloud/large hail/loud roar (like a train).
If a tornado has been sighted, stay calm but move quickly to the safest place possible and remember, don't wait until you see the tornado to take action!
If you're at home, the safest place to be is underground. Basements are generally the most protected area, but if that's not an option take cover in the central most part of your home away from windows. This could be a bathroom, closet, hallway or even under a heavy piece of furniture.
If you're at work (in an office building) the safest place is on the lowest level possible, in the central-most area away from windows. You'll want to crouch down to be as low to the ground as possible and cover your head with your arms. Make sure to take the stairs, they can provide shelter and if power is lost you could become trapped in an elevator.
If you're in your vehicle, abandon it and seek shelter in a sturdy structure. If you're in open country lay face down in the nearest ditch, you'll want to lay flat and protect your the back of your head. Remember to stay as far away from trees and cars as you can and never take cover under a bridge or highway overpass.
Stay in your shelter until the storm has passed or emergency personnel arrives. If it is safe to go outside watch out for downed power lines and stay away from puddles that have power lines in them.
Once it is safe to clean up your home and property call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County. We are available for any emergency 24-hours a day at 269-963-3033
Fire Damage? Give SERVPRO A Call
9/29/2020 (Permalink)
Fall and winter weather, coupled with seasonal holiday heating, cooking, and decorations, typically brings about an increase in residential fire frequency. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County fire damage restoration experts realize that people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it's too late to get out. In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared with an escape plan in place. Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year.
Working smoke detectors along with building and practicing a home escape plan increase your chance of surviving a fire. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) promotes steps to help you develop an emergency escape plan. Simply having a plan for your home or business is not enough. Your family and employees must be fully aware of the plan and practice it on a regular basis.
When fire ravages your home, SERVPRO is here to help
9/28/2020 (Permalink)
A fire damaged a single-family home heavily. The fire started around midday, and by the time fire officials arrived at the scene, thick smoke was blowing from the back of the residence. They punched a hole through one of the walls to access the seat of the fire and controlled it before it could consume the entire house.
Fire and soot cleanup at this home took up a considerable chunk of the restoration process because of the heavy smoke produced during the fire. Although the densest concentration of residues was close to the seat of the fire, residues had spread all over the house through convectional air currents necessitating cleaning. We prepare our SERVPRO technicians to clean any cleaning challenge that arises when a fire damages property, so we had no problem dealing with the widespread residues.
Smoke can leave different types of residues at the same loss site. At the affected home, we expected a similar outcome since the flames had consumed organic materials such as wood and synthetic ones, including fabrics and plastics. Our SERVPRO technicians tested different surfaces to establish factors such as the depth of the residue layers. We also checked whether the loss was a wet smoke or dry smoke loss situation. Because the fire had smoldered in the early stages, there was a higher presence of wet smoke residues, so we opted for wet cleaning procedures.
Although each loss site is unique, there are hotspots where most residues collect. Some like the ceiling and walls are obvious. Others, such as the interiors of cabinets, which attract smoke due to lower temperatures and ventilation ducts, can be missed. Apart from concealment, such areas may also require special cleaning techniques.
For example, the unfinished materials in cabinet interiors make it harder to clean off residues while HVAC systems require disassembly and the use of specialized cleaning equipment. The advanced training our SERVPRO technicians receive helped in identifying and dealing with all problem areas at the affected home.
Soot and other smoke residues readily spread when there is a fire requiring considerable cleaning efforts. Call SERVPRO to help with the restoration! We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Odors Abound After A Fire, And SERVPRO Can Help
9/28/2020 (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 Monroe. 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.
So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Tips: Dealing with intentional damage to your business
9/11/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners quickly recover from fire and water damage. They also provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.
If you ever encounter an act of vandalism to your home or building, here are some tips on what to do until SERVPRO arrives:
DO:
Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
Blot freshly spilled food from carpets and fabrics with a dampened cloth or sponge (but don’t over wet). Scrape and blot (don’t rub: it may damage fibers).
Carefully vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery. Save containers, which reveal the composition of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints.
Record all damage and photograph when possible.
DON’T:
Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
Discard wood chips, broken pieces from furniture, porcelain or other art objects.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County knows how precious your time is!
9/11/2020 (Permalink)
Did you know that SERVPRO of North Calhoun has a dedicated team to handle commercial emergencies? Water damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. Every hour spent restoring your business back to preloss condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If your business experiences a water loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts and we’ll respond immediately to get you back to business.
Our commercial response team has the experience and knowledge to help guide our clients through the claims process while performing services around the clock if necessary to bring the business back to operational status as quickly as possible. Even a small loss can shut your business down for several days or weeks if not taken care of properly. Contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun today for an appointment for a free assessment and Emergency Ready Profile.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business
SERVPRO Tips: Never a convenient time for disaster to strike your business, but SERVPRO is here to help
9/10/2020 (Permalink)
There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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. Learn more about our commercial services:
- Commercial Water Damage Restoration
- Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County was quick to respond over a holiday weekend to this loss, to help in an assisted living community where water was coming down from above and affecting many living units.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always happy to help and quick to respond.
We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO is here for you when meteorologists get things wrong!
9/10/2020 (Permalink)
The weather can be so unpredictable. One day, it can be a torrential downpour. Another day, it can be snow. Another day, nice and sunny. And, another day, more rain. All of that back and forth weather can cause damage to your residential or commercial property. And all that rain could cause water damage, which could result in you needing a storm & flood cleanup company. If this happens, just know that will be there to make it “Like it never even happened.”
Has your local weatherman or weather woman given you a 7-day forecast like this:
Monday - 75. Sunny. No chance of rain.
Tuesday - 82. Sunny. No chance of rain.
Wednesday - 76. Cloudy. Slight chance of rain.
Thursday - 70. Sunny. No chance of rain.
Friday - 87. Sunny. No chance of rain.
Saturday - 92. Cloudy. No chance of rain.
Sunday - 70. Sunny. 10 percent chance of rain.
Then, Mother Nature decides to give you a different 7-day forecast. All of a sudden, the weather is torrential rain -- all seven days. And, as a result of all that rain, your home or business is now flooded, and you now have water damage on your hands. Now you’re flooded with a range of emotions. And now, you’re in need of a storm & flood cleanup company. There’s only one company to rely on when it comes to flooding, storm damage and water damage: SERVPRO of North Calhoun!
Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. The past few decades have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements afford SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.
SERVPRO One Team MVPs can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions in your community. We’re here so we can be there in your time of need. Teamwork makes the dream work. We unite to achieve that synergistic goal every day.
The next time you need a storm & flood cleanup company for your residential or commercial property, contact us. Call on SERVPRO® of North Calhoun County. We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Tips: Preparing Your Home For Storms
9/10/2020 (Permalink)
Preventative measures are a must, especially when it comes to storms. Storm season is March through June. During this three-month period, it’s vital you are prepared at all times. The team at SERVPRO encourages safety. We want you to always be prepared for any storm damage. Preparation is key. Here are 5 tips to prepare your home for storms.
Seal Your Roof
Storms can be highly unpredictable. You never know the severity of damage it can cause to your home, your belongings, your roof. It’s incumbent on you to hire a professional to reinforce your roof well before strong winds hit. A professional can seal your roof to help protect it from those strong storms. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), “seal your roof deck using “peel and stick” tape along your roof seams, or a “peel and stick” membrane over the entire roof deck, or apply polyurethane foam.” If you invest in this now, this can save you hundreds, perhaps thousands, in the future.
Secure Your Windows & Doors
Your home’s windows and doors can be damaged when high winds from storms strike. Secure all windows and doors. When it comes to your doors, here are some things to check for:
- Hinges
- Screws missing
- Door threshold
According to Nationwide, “be sure the door threshold is tightly screwed into your house and not just the door frame. You may want to consider installing new wind-resistant doors with a high design pressure (DP) rating. The DP rating is a measure of the level of wind force a door system can withstand without failing.” Do you know if you live in a region that’s prone to hurricanes and storms? It’s encouraged that you know this information, especially for preparation purposes. Here are the top five cities most vulnerable to hurricanes. If you live in one of those areas or an area that is prone to these types of storms, consider installing impact-resistant windows. These windows are specifically designed for these very purposes: to withstand forceful windows.
Secure Fences
When strong winds hit your home, it can strike down fences and other objects that can cause more damage to your residential property. Before this happens, secure fences to minimize the risk of further damage to other objects or worse -- people. When investing in a home -- or if you’re replacing a fence -- factor in the strength and resilience of your fence. Weigh all your options, and make an educated decision. Don’t base your decision to buy a fence on how inexpensive it is. Because that factor alone can be much more expensive for you in the long-term, especially if a storm damages it and your home.
Create a Family Emergency Plan
With any storm, preparation is key. Now -- not then -- is the time for you to create a family emergency plan so you. Help protect all members of your family members -- including your pets. Make sure they are well-equipped when a storm strikes. A family emergency plan can help save lives. Here are just a few items to include:
- Water
- Food
- Batteries
- Communication plan
- Phone and/or walkie talkies (some form of communication device)
- First Aid Kit
- Emergency supplies
- Important phone numbers
Anchor Loose Objects
If objects, such as grills, bikes, deck furniture, trash cans, etc. are loose when a storm hits your residential property, it can cause windows to break, and damage to your vehicle, your home, or a human being. It’s encouraged to anchor loose objects to help minimize the risk of outdoor threats. By adding shrubs of varying lengths, fences, and trees in a row are ways to help block high winds. Utilizing landscaping and yard objects can be extremely beneficial.
So give us a call if storms damage your property! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Tips: Winterizing Your Business
9/10/2020 (Permalink)
When you’re a business owner, one of your primary goals is to grow your business. So, your focus is on tips that can help you achieve that goal. Another great tip you should abide by, especially this time of year, is how to prepare your business for inclement weather. And since winter is a prime time for fire damage and water damage to occur at your business, one tip for your business would be to rely on the business that’s #1 in the restoration industry: SERVPRO of North Calhoun County. Follow the below tips to winterize your commercial space.
One of the wisest decisions you can make as a business owner is to be prepared. Be prepared for troubles that may arise. Be prepared for additional costs that weren’t included in the initial budget. Be prepared to winterize your commercial property to help prevent accidents or losing business.
Tips to Winterize Your Commercial Space:
Prepare Roofs & Gutters
Ice and snow can add a lot of extra weight to your roof, so it’s critical you have your roofs carefully examined by a professional to ensure there is no damage and to test the strength and durability of your roof. When it comes to your gutters, you’ll want those carefully inspected, too. As a result of the ice and snow, it can cause your gutters to weaken, which can cause them to detach from your building and allow for water intrusion, which can cause you another costly issue. Lastly, check for clogs. A clogged gutter can result in an ice dam. Ice dams prevent melting snow to drain off your roof.
Protect Pipes
During the cold winter season, allow your faucets to drip at a slow pace. Faucets can be highly prone to freezing. If there are some pipes throughout your business that aren’t being utilized, it’s a good idea to insulate the pipes to prevent freezing. Frozen pipes can be a serious problem and cause major water damage at your business this winter season. But don’t fret. If that does happen, you have the water damage repair and restoration professionals at SERVPRO in your corner.
Sprinkle Ice Melt
When there is snow -- especially ice -- on your commercial property, you certainly want to ensure you sprinkle ice melt all over those traffic areas, on all the places your customers walk. The last thing you want is for an accident to occur. Ice melt is very cost-effective. Investing in some can save your business an expensive accident. If someone slipped and fell and hurt him or herself, that could cost the business thousands of dollars and a headache. Be wise. Protect your customers. Protect yourself. Protect your employees.
Clear Parking Lot of Snow & Ice
When your business’ parking lot is covered with what winter decided to leave behind, clear the parking lot of snow and ice. It’s a wise idea to have this done as soon as possible. You may even factor in your annual budget to hire a professional to clear the parking lot of snow and ice. You do not want to lose out on business due to customers not being able to park at your business.
Hopefully, these tips to winterize your commercial space will come in handy for you and your business. At SERVPRO of North Calhoun County, we make it our business to get you back to business. If your commercial property happens to come in contact with fire damage or water damage this winter season, our wise tip for you would be to contact the fire and water damage repair and restoration specialists. The heroes at SERVPRO will get your business back operating as quickly as possible and make it “Like it never even happened.” We’re faster to any size disaster. And we’ll be there to your rescue in a flash. Contact us seven days a week, 365 days of the year (even holidays), morning, noon, or night. Even the wee hours of the morning, we’re here for you in your time of need.
We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO is here to help you through any/every disaster
9/10/2020 (Permalink)
Sometimes in the process of cleaning up a water damage, or really any kind of damage that SERVPRO handles: fire, storm, general cleaning, etc, we find secondary damage from any number of sources. Sometimes it is mold damage from if the water loss was left untreated for too long. However in this case it is damaged from a termite infestation. This is a rarer find than mold or asbestos but it does still happen. For some tips on how to prevent a termite infestation in your home please see the below information:
Keep all shrubbery near your home trimmed, allowing at least a 12-inch space between the plants and the exterior wall of your home. This will create airflow and allow damp areas to dry out quicker.
Use pine needles instead of mulch. Pine needles are less appealing to termites.
Keep all sprinkler heads pointed away from your home’s foundation. Termites like moisture and a sprinkler pointing toward your home create an ideal environment for them.
So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Tips: Cleaning up smoke and soot
9/10/2020 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow 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 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.
So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Tips: What to do when water invades your home
8/29/2020 (Permalink)
Your home is likely the biggest investment that you will ever make and one that holds a lifetime of memories.
What happens if you wake up to see 2 inches of water in your kitchen? What would you do? Do you know who you would call?
We are SERVPRO of North Calhoun County and we have been serving homeowners and businesses like you since 1967.
As a leader in the field of water damage repair and restoration, our crews are trained to help you when disaster strikes, they will help walk you through the drying process and help to make it #LikeItNeverEvenHappened.
If disaster strikes your home or business, be sure to remember to call SERVPRO® of North Calhoun at 269-963-3033
#SERVPRO9188 #NoWorries #SERVPRO
SERVPRO Tips: Facts about Mold
8/19/2020 (Permalink)
If you have a business then one of your main concerns is likely the state of the building. It is important to maintain a clean, safe and comfortable environment. One problem that you may find yourself dealing with at some point is black mold. This is a common issue in many buildings and may become reoccurring if you do not take action quickly.
What Is Mold?
Mold is a fungus that grows in moist environments. While you may be most familiar with black mold, there are actually many varieties. Some differences that you may find between types of mold are:
It may be slimy or fuzzy and can come in a range of colors, from green to black to white. Different varieties may also have unique scents, though many of them will cause a musty or earthy odor.
Where Can You Find Mold?
Mold is spread via spores which are so small that they cannot be seen by the naked eye, making it easy for the fungus to grow without being noticed. Because of their size, spores can be found in nearly any location. However, they are most likely to form colonies in areas with a moisture problem. This can include inside of plumbing systems, walls or carpeting.
How Do You Remove Mold?
Depending on where it is growing, mold cleanup can be a difficult process. For example, it will be much harder to remove from porous materials than hard surfaces. If you do discover a mold growth, the best thing to do is to hire a professional mold remediation company to remove the fungus from the building. Trying to do so on your own could result in unintentionally spreading the spores to other areas.
Because large infestations of black mold can be difficult to get rid of, it is important to have cleanup done as soon as you notice any signs of growth. Once the mold has been removed, reducing excessive moisture is perhaps the best way to keep it from returning. Repair leaks right away and perform regular maintenance to keep mold from growing again.
So give us a call today! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of North Calhoun joined forces with local community members
8/17/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County and local business members joined forces in a #trashtag event held by Express Employment to help clean up the community.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County enjoys helping out in the community where needed and when they can.
We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Calhoun County and the surrounding area. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always here and happy to help. 269-963-3033
We are faster to any disaster and here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today and let us put our expertise, equipment and experience to work for you!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program
5/21/2020 (Permalink)
Let us help you get back to business
As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.
Extensive training and specialized products
As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.
From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.
3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify
When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.
- Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
- Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials. In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible.
- Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.
Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation
We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.
Call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County today at 269-963-3033 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.
SERVPRO Tip: Storm Damage To Your Home? SERVPRO of North Calhoun Can Help
4/3/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a storm 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.
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: storm damage usually is a safety concern and can jeopardize a home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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 faster to any disaster and are here to help make things "Like it never even happened."
Call Today - 269-963-3033
SERVPRO Tips: SERVPRO of North Calhoun can help when it comes to smoke and soot damage
4/1/2020 (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
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – 269-963-3033. We are faster to any disaster and are ready to use our expertise and equipment to help make things "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is here to help during this time of need
3/23/2020 (Permalink)
During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.
Specialized Training
We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:
- Kitchen/Food Areas
- Bathrooms
- Schools/Classrooms
- Offices
- Retail Spaces
- Water Fountains
- Shelving/Racks
- Sales Counters
- Carpets and Rugs
- Stair Handrails
- Elevator Cars
- Playground Equipment
- Fitness Equipment
Specialized Products
The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning
If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts at SERVPRO of North Calhoun County at 269-963-3033.
SERVPRO Tips: Emergency Planning
3/4/2020 (Permalink)
Emergencies happen at a moment's notice with no warning and barely time to react... have you and your family discussed what you should do in the event one should happen to you?
Taking some of these steps will help prepare you and your family in the event you are faced with an emergency in your home.
- Develop an emergency exit plan. Ensure your children know where they should go and an alternate route in the event the main one is blocked off.
- If you have pets, make sure you have a family member assigned the responsibility of ensuring they are with you.
- Make sure everyone knows where the emergency kits are.
- Keep a list of emergency contacts in each family member's phone.
- Keep all important documents in a kit that you can gather quickly as you are exiting the house or in a fire/water proofed container. Make sure all family members know where they are located in the event something happens.
- Have a bag packed with a set of clothing and hygiene items that you and your family can gather during the evacuation. This bag should include items your pet(s) will need as well.
- If one of your family members requires medication, ENSURE you have at least 3 days worth of medication available so they will be okay until you can reach a health professional.
It is always a good idea to review the evacuation routes and plan of actions periodically to ensure your family knows what to do at any time.
If you experience an emergency, call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County and we will make your home "Like it never even happened." Call us today (269) 963-3033!
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County Getting Into #Trashtag
12/3/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County proud to be part of community clean up. #Trashtag
About SERVPRO of SERVPRO of North Calhoun County's Community Involvement
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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.
As well SERVPRO of North Calhoun County takes pride in helping the environment return back to a preloss condition and help restore nature. As we took part in the #Trashtag event sponsored by our local zoo. Several of our teammates and owners assisted in collecting several hundred pounds of garbage and debris along the roadside. SERVPRO of North Calhoun was even honored and recognized by the award of an old painted wheel cover, that was recovered in the pick up. #Trashtag!!
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.
What is That Smell?
9/30/2019 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County today at (269)963-3033!
Interesting fact about SERVPRO of North Calhoun, we can deodorize your home and business of the toxins that come from substances such as cigarette smoke!
Tobacco smoke is composed of numerous types of gasses as well as carcinogens and heavy metals, like arsenic, lead, and cyanide. Sticky, highly toxic particulates, like nicotine, can cling to walls and ceilings. Gases can be absorbed into carpets, draperies, and other upholsteries.
Many times hotels or realtors will call on us to come in and clean rooms that have been inhabited by heavy smokers. Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home.
Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors (including animal smells such as skunk and wet dog). Call us today 269 963 3033
Have Storm Damage? Call SERVPRO Today!
9/9/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO had air movers on the job after a storm hit Calhoun County
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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 Calhoun County, 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
269-963-3033
SERVPRO OF NORTH CALHOUN COUNTY ON A COMMERCIAL FIRE
9/9/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun can assist with any commercial loss. Fire, water, mold or anything that may arise.
269-963-3033
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your business. It can cause hidden damage and extensive odor challenges. With SERVPRO's smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a wide-range plan of action to put in place.
- 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.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County was dispatched to commercial fire to do just that, with an eyecare clinic who experienced a detrimental fire.
Suffering a loss like this can displace a business for many months, even up to a year. SERVPRO was out same day and began services, to assist this customer as quickly as possible.
Even Carpet Can Be Affected By Storm Damage
9/9/2019 (Permalink)
An example of carpet with water damage.
Carpet cleaning is important to maintaining the overall comfort and monetary value of a property. Any type of flooring is an investment for the property owner. Keeping the investment in the best shape takes a professional, but without proper certification, the consumer cannot be guaranteed of proper education and training on updated techniques used in maintaining the value of the flooring.
There are health concerns that can arise from any unsanitary environment, and it can be surprising to learn what survives in and under the flooring. Allergens that are left behind can lead to serious health problems for family members and even household pets. Proper techniques can reduce or eliminate allergens in the environment, improving the health of the occupants. Great strides have been made in technologies used in carpet-care. Today there are only a few basic wet and dry methodologies accepted by the industry leaders. Ensuring consistently high standards means understanding how the certifying body works to guarantee better results at lower costs. Proper maintenance begins with regular vacuuming using a high-powered machine. Over time normal wear and tear lead to a dull, soiled appearance. Proper maintenance by the occupants can help keep the flooring looking good, but there comes a time when a certified technician has to be called to get to the really deep grime a normal household vacuum can miss.
While regular maintenance is beneficial to the healthfulness and attractiveness of a home or office, a certified technician is necessary to take care of the really deep jobs regular vacuuming misses. Consumers often find it difficult to choose a professional company for those important household chores. The benefits of carpet cleaning are numerous, but knowing who can be trusted is not always easy.
That's where we come in....Just give us a call @ (517) 278-5261 and we'll help you in any way that we can, whether that be by offering our carpet cleaning services or just answering any questions you may have.
Water Damage in Calhoun County?
9/9/2019 (Permalink)
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 North Calhoun 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 – 269-963-3033
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 North Calhoun County
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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.
SERVPRO IS IICRC CERTIFIED, ALWAYS HAPPY TO HELP WITH WATER DAMAGE.
8/29/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is happy to help with severely buckled floor following overhead water intrusion.
Water damage can be deceptive. Water penetrates into structural cavities creating trapped pockets of saturation. The detection of water in these areas can often only be discovered with sophisticated moisture detection meters. Undetected moisture will continue to cause damage. This damage, at a minimum, will cause odors. Greater damage will surface when materials delaminate, shrink, split and further deteriorate to where costly repairs are required.
More than just removing excess water, IICRC-certified restorers have the knowledge and equipment to further dry a home or facility (including substructure materials) completely back to pre loss conditions. Through timely response and the careful monitoring of water damage, mold and other health issues can be prevented. If water damage has been present too long, mold will occur.
All IICRC-certified professionals have the training and experience to identify moisture sources, evaluate mold growth (visible or suspected), contain damage, remove contamination and dry materials to ensure that mold will not return.
Water Damage to a Commercial Building in Calhoun County
8/22/2019 (Permalink)
A water loss created by a water pipe that was not spotted for 2 hours created 8 inches of standing water in this Calhoun County building. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County worked around the clock to restore the affected area & to prevent any new form of damage from occurring. We know that commercial damage can cost a business thousands of dollars in productivity, it is always our goal to help. Water spreads quickly throughout your property, saturating everything in its path. That includes walls, floors, and belongings. We strive to get there quickly to avoid drywall breaking down and swelling, metal surfaces beginning to tarnish, and before dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain. For help restoring your commercial space after a water loss call SERVPRO of North Calhoun Couty at 269-963-3033.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County vs. Storm Damage
4/1/2019 (Permalink)
Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in North Calhoun County and surrounding areas. 269-963-3033.
When Storms hit, SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always ready and happy to help!
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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.
SERVPRO has an abundant network of resources to attend to whatever your needs may be.
We are a 24/7 business and can be reached at any time of need 269-963-3033.
Restoring Your North Calhoun County Commercial Property After A Water Damage
4/1/2019 (Permalink)
Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges of Which SERVPRO of North Calhoun is Happy to Help.
Flooding and water damage events at North Calhoun County and surrounding area 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.
About SERVPRO of North Calhoun County
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial properties 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.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County has several years experience in handling large losses.
Why SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is the Fire Restoration
3/27/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County fire cleaning and restoration. Always here to help.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County has certified technicians in fire cleaning and restoration. We are always pleased to help clean and restore your home or business back to preloss condition.
Soot from a fire can cause extensive damage that sometimes cannot be seen, we can come in and assess the situation, what needs to be cleaned, if electronics need to be attended to or your textiles.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County takes pride in delivering the very best customer service. We will be at your side every step of the way, to ensure any questions are answered and addressed.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County, 269-963-3033, we can make it like it never even happened.
What should you do if you find mold in your home or business?
3/4/2019 (Permalink)
Mold is often behind our walls and we cannot see it spreading throughout the home's structure.
You have found mold in your home and have sought professional remedial services, what should you do until help arrives?
When you discover that you have mold in your home and have sought the help of professionals for remediation services, these are helpful tips until they arrive:
- Avoid the area the mold is found in. If you are not able to avoid the area, where a face mask to protect exposing yourself to potentially harmful molds.
- Remove as much moisture from the air and infected area as possible, without stirring the airborne mold spores.
- If you approach the area to clean it, use recommended bleach solution to clean the areas you can.
- Clean your vents and pans involving your HVAC system.
As spring approaches, mold will start to surface even in the snow covered grass. Stay alert to any signs of mold to help keep your family safe and healthy.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County will come and inspect your home or business for mold, call us today @ (269) 963-3033.
Estimated Costs of Professional Mold Remediation
3/4/2019 (Permalink)
Damages from mold can escalate quickly and often require professional remedial services.
Unless you are extremely thorough and completely remove all spores, the mold in your home will spread and develop in new previously unaffected areas. Below are some examples of estimated costs to retain professional help for mold remediation.
Overall estimated costs of mold remediation can be anywhere from $1500 - $10,000. This is dependent upon how severely the structure of your home is affected.
Drywall, window frames, carpeted and hard surface floorings, bathroom tiles, interior insulation and furniture are all items mold will attach to and attack.
For the removal of black mold, the price range is an average of $1,000 to $4,500, depending on how damaged the structure is. General mold and repair for removal from a structure is anywhere from $2,000 - $20,000. These prices cover both the removal and repair of the damaged structure.
Is it worth filing a claim?
2/12/2019 (Permalink)
Sometimes initial water damages can create secondary losses also!
The average cost for a homeowner to repair and/or restore water damage that has happened to their home is between $2,000 and $5,000. There are several factors that weigh in on this cost, mostly the extent of damage and the cause or type of damage that has occurred. Obviously, the faster the water is extracted and the area dried, the less damage and less cost incurred. Preventative maintenance and general upkeep on a home reduces the chances of a water damage loss and is much less expensive.
Other factors that affect the cost are the category and classifications of the water damage. There are 3 categories:
- Category 1- Clean Water – often comes from drinking sources, such as a leaky faucet, leaky toilet tank, rain and sprinklers, burst pipes or water heaters.
- Category 2- Grey Water – can cause some health threats as it can contain harmful contaminants that may cause a minor illness. Grey water can quickly become a serious threat due to the potential for growth of mold and bacteria. Sources include overflowing dishwashers and washing machines or toilets containing urine or cleaning agents.
- Category 3- Black Water – Can cause serious health threats or possibly even death. Sources are sewage backups, flooding, or storm surges.
There are also 4 different classes the water loss will be assigned. This classification is dependent upon how intense the cleanup is. These classes are:
- Class 1- The easiest and usually the most inexpensive to clean and repair, indicates only a section of a room is affected with very little wet carpeting. Often repairable by the homeowner themselves.
- Class 2- This is when an entire room has been affected, including the walls up to 12 inches. Moisture remains in the structure and will need cleanup as well as some repairs.
- Class 3- This class has saturated ceilings, walls, floors, and even the subfloor and insulation. Often times the moisture has come from above, like a burst pipe.
- Class 4- This damage is often a result of a river flooding or storm surges. It has saturated materials like stone, brick and hardwood. This is the most severe classification.
So as you can see the cost increases with the amount of damage incurred, the length of time since damage did occur and what caused the damage. The average cost being a minimum of nearly $2,000.00 for a small water loss claim, and a maximum cost being unknown depending on significance of the damage.
As a homeowner, you ask if your insurance company will cover the loss. Most insurance companies require you to purchase separate flood coverages. Some other extra coverages that can be purchased are: additional replacement cost, debris removal, tree removal, trees, shrubs and other plants, fire department service charges, credit card-fund transfer card forgery- and counterfeit money, ordinance and law coverage, personal property endorsements, and water backup and sump pump overflow.
As a rule, most policies cover damage that is deemed to be sudden and internal. This typically means damage from a burst pipe, faulty or frozen plumbing, accidental overflow of an appliance or fixture, water damage caused from extinguishing a fire, and seepage into the house from a leaking roof (however the roof itself is not likely to be included in the coverage), damage from rain or a snow storm, and from mold that results from damage from one of the above perils. Water damage caused from vandalism is likely to be covered.
On the other side of this rule, even though rain damage is covered, a general rule is if it hits the ground first before causing damage to your home, it will not be covered. This not only considers flooding, but also just a mere rise in the water table caused from rain. Separate flood coverage is recommended. Another general rule is that damage from water that enters the home through plumbing is not covered. Aside from the considerations of additional coverages, if the insurance company deems the damage to be ultimately caused by negligence, then they will not cover it. Preventative maintenance is crucial to not only preventing damage but also to ensuring it is covered in the event damage occurs.
In the event that you do suffer a water damage loss at your residence, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County (269) 963-3033 for an immediate response to any size disaster at any hour of any day, even holidays. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”
Spring Cleaning season is approaching... are you ready?
2/11/2019 (Permalink)
We can clean your home or business and make it "Like it never even happened."
Every year in Michigan we endure our typical winters with snow, ice, winds and varying temperatures. Then we embrace the loving signs of spring and are excited about the weather changing, but not so excited about the mess that comes with the mud and water from the incoming warmth. Here at SERVPRO, we are prepared to help you with all of your restoration needs.
We offer water extraction services, dehumidification, mold mitigation and/or remediation, we can dry your electronics and equipment as well as your documents. We also offer cleaning services such as, carpets and upholstery cleaning, we clean walls and ceilings, identify and neutralize odors and deodorize your entire home or business.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County will make it look like winter never happened and spring cleaning was a breeze.
Call us today @ (269) 963-3033.
Ways to Prevent Water Damage to your Property...
2/11/2019 (Permalink)
Any pipe can crack whether it is inside or outside of a building,
Water can and will find its way into any opening it can, sometimes even creating the opening itself. Taking small preventative measures and properly maintaining your home can help save you money, time and irreplaceable heirlooms. Here are some steps you can take to protect your home or business from unwanted water damages, repairs and insurance claims.
EXTERIOR PREVENTATIVE MEASURES:
- Ensure proper drainage from your foundation. This includes ensuring your landscaping slopes away from the foundation of your home or building and any drainage pipes are set correctly and are not damaged. It also means you need to keep your gutters cleaned out throughout the year and that the downspouts are at least five to ten feet away from the structure to ensure the water will flow away from it. Installing gutter guards is often a good measure to help prevent the gutters from getting clogged with leaves and other debris.
- Inspect your roof semi-annually. Checking the integrity of the roof’s structure itself and ensuring the shingles are all secure and check for algae, moss or lichen buildup, maybe even consider having your roof cleaned professionally.
- Keep your crawlspace puddle free. If you have a crawlspace, it is important to ensure you do not have any water puddling underneath your floor so a damp environment that will lead to the development of mold, rot, mildew or insects doesn’t occur.
- Maintain trees and vegetation. It is important to know where your utility lines and/or pipes run underground to ensure your trees and shrubs do not damage them with their roots. Some species are very invasive and will grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage fields, pipes and septic tanks. A safe distance for invasive species in usually about 20 feet from the pipes or house, otherwise 10 feet is usually a safe distance for clearance.
- Check Sprinkler and Irrigation systems. Check your irrigation or sprinkler systems to make sure they are not leaking and pooling water near the foundation or damaging the siding of your home. ALWAYS ensure you have disconnected and winterized your lines for states that have freezing winters.
- Cracks in the foundation. Concrete cracks, it is inevitable. You should periodically check your foundation for cracks. If it is a minor crack, concrete caulk, if it is a little bit larger crack, then a concrete patch should suffice. You should also ensure it is not being caused by a more serious problem, such as invading roots, which can cause you to need professional help.
INTERIOR PREVENTATIVE MEASURES:
- Always know where your water main is located! This can keep any interior flooding to a minimum as you can turn it off from the main source and allow yourself time to locate where the leak is coming from.
- Maintain your appliances. Sometimes our appliances can malfunction or become old and have issues and if they use water, it can lead to a flooded room. Checking your appliances routinely will help reduce any undetected leaks and damage.
- Install floor/drain pans. Using a floor or drain pan can help prevent a minor leak from causing significant damages.
- Upgrade your washing machine hoses. Washing machine leaks are among the most common causes for water damage losses in homes. It is recommended to replace your washing machine hose every 5 years, even possibly consider getting a flood safe house. If the hoses are old, bent, brittle, crimped or leaking then they should be replaced immediately.
- Inspect your other appliances that may use water. Refrigerators that have ice makers or water dispensers can often have a leaking water line. Water Heaters can rust out and cause leaking as well as faulty water outlets and drain valves. Ensuring these stay maintained will help prevent a water damage loss.
- Air conditioner units are another main source. Usually A/C Units are out of sight, therefore out of mind. It is important to perform regular maintenance and inspect them properly, especially in summer months when they are working overtime.
- Seal all doors and windows. Ensuring the caulking is not cracked and dried out and that the weather stripping is in place will help prevent an avenue water, snow and ice can enter through and cause destruction.
- Inspecting hoses, faucets, sinks and spigots. When checking for leaks it is recommended to check in the cabinets that lie under these areas for any leaks or water staining. Using 100% silicone caulking can help prevent these leaks.
- Monitor your water bill. Keeping an eye on the amount of water you are being billed for use of is an excellent way to notice if there is an increase in fluctuation. An increase that you are not aware of will indicate there is water going somewhere and should prompt you to look for it.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is faster to any size disaster and will make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today for help with your water damage at (269) 963-3033.
What To Do If You Are Faced With A Bio-hazard Loss...
2/7/2019 (Permalink)
Tragedy and disaster can happen to anyone at any time and in any place... will you be prepared to confront a loss if it happens to you?
Bio-hazard losses are often the hardest type of loss to endure and are caused by these events: decomposition/ unattended death, suicide or homicide, crime scenes, trauma situations, biohazard situations, home and/or industrial accidents, animal waste/ remains, hoarding services and forensic investigation chemicals, illegal drug labs and others not listed. These types of losses should always be contained by professionals as they often require special training.
Other factors that you should consider when choosing a restoration company or comparing your ability to perform the services needed opposed to contracting the work out. Some of these other factors are: Cost of professional labor and equipment, the training and knowledge the technicians posses to effectively and efficiently, there are three different categories of water that need to be understand prior to beginning any services.
When your business has a loss, SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is here to help!
12/31/2018 (Permalink)
Fire strikes local V.A., SERVPRO of North Calhoun County immediately responds!
A local V.A. hospital had a fire which after fire fighting efforts, resulted in fire and water damage. They didn't hesitate to call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County for an immediate response to help get the situation under control and their business back up and running. We were on sight within an hour and immediately began remediation of the damage. Our professionals are quick and thorough when performing work, ensuring the business is able to get back up and running and minimize loss of productivity. We were able to work quickly at this site, allowing them to get back to serving those that have dedicated their lives to serving our country. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County strives to help our communities in any way possible.
When Fire causes destruction of your home...
12/31/2018 (Permalink)
Fire destroys Battle Creek Home!
A local Battle Creek resident had a house fire that caused severe destruction of his home. He immediately called SERVPRO of North Calhoun County to assist him with the damage to his home. We worked with his insurance company and provided them with necessary paperwork they needed for his claim. We saved what items could be restore in an effort to minimize replacement costs. We worked with him throughout the restoration process so that we could get his home back to its preloss condition and make it "Like it never even happened." After the restoration was complete, we also helped set up an Emergency Ready Plan giving the homeowner and his family guidance if disaster strikes again! SERVPRO of North Calhoun County professionals always step up to do what we can to keep our residents safe and get their lives back to normal as fast as possible!
When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of North Calhoun will be here to help!
12/31/2018 (Permalink)
Simple losses still need our help!
You cannot predict when a tragedy is going to happen to your home or business, such things don't revolve around time. Fortunately SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is available 24/7/365, including holidays or even in the middle of the night! We have an immediate response time and the most advanced equipment and technology with highly trained and certified experts in restoration. No matter how BIG or SMALL your situation is or the time it occurs, SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always ready to respond. We will be there to help you every step of the way, including working with your insurance company, to make your home or business get back to its preloss condition so it's "Like it never even happened."
Why SERVPRO? This is why!
12/27/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County takes pride in fast response times!
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County professionals make every effort to provide the fastest response possible regardless of the time or day. SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified and use the latest technology and equipment to re-mediate and restore your home or business to its preloss condition, focusing on restoring, not replacing your personal property in an effort to minimize loss and cost.
We understand that our customers call us at a time they are most vulnerable, often in a desperate situation maybe even having just lost their homes and all of their possessions, or are losing revenue from their business as they have to close their doors until they have re-mediated their situation. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County provides assistance with handling your insurance claim while immediately beginning mitigation of your loss so further damage does not occur, no matter how big or small it may be. We will even help you coordinate the recruitment of subcontractors for services we may not offer.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County professionals live in the communities we service, and like you, we want them to be successful and prosper, giving us the motivation to ensure we provide the fastest, most thorough services possible so that you can either return you and your family to your home or reopen your business and restore productivity and revenue, making it, “Like it never even happened.”
When we have completed the services we are performing for you, we will take the time to set up a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan, whether it be with you and your family or for your business, to help prevent damage and loss if a disaster ever occurs again. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County will help you with losses caused by fire, water or storms, mold remediation services or just overall general cleaning in the Greater Battle Creek areas. We are also part of a network of resources with over 1,700 SERVPRO franchises allowing us to respond to large commercial losses or major storm events with the same ethics and principles we commit to each and every day.
Our Highly Trained Mold Specialists can restore your North Calhoun County Home
12/12/2018 (Permalink)
Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.
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 SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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 SERVPRO of North Calhoun County specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained and are IICRC certified restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
Do not hesitate to give SERVPRO a call should you detect mold 269-963-3033.
Storms & Carpet Don't Mix!
12/11/2018 (Permalink)
Carpet cleaning is important to maintaining the overall comfort and monetary value of a property. Any type of flooring is an investment for the property owner. Keeping the investment in the best shape takes a professional, but without proper certification, the consumer cannot be guaranteed of proper education and training on updated techniques used in maintaining the value of the flooring.
There are health concerns that can arise from any unsanitary environment, and it can be surprising to learn what survives in and under the flooring. Allergens that are left behind can lead to serious health problems for family members and even household pets. Proper techniques can reduce or eliminate allergens in the environment, improving the health of the occupants. Great strides have been made in technologies used in carpet-care. Today there are only a few basic wet and dry methodologies accepted by the industry leaders. Ensuring consistently high standards means understanding how the certifying body works to guarantee better results at lower costs. Proper maintenance begins with regular vacuuming using a high-powered machine. Over time normal wear and tear leads to a dull, soiled appearance. Proper maintenance by the occupants can help keep the flooring looking good, but there comes a time when a certified technician has to be called to get to the really deep grime a normal household vacuum can miss.
While regular maintenance is beneficial to the healthfulness and attractiveness of a home or office, a certified technician is necessary to take care of the really deep jobs regular vacuuming misses. Consumers often find it difficult to choose a professional company for those important household chores. The benefits of carpet cleaning are numerous, but knowing who can be trusted is not always easy.
That's where we come in....Just give us a call @ (517) 278-5261 and we'll help you in any way that we can, whether that be by offering our carpet cleaning services or just answering any questions you may have.
Making Mold "Like it never even happened."
12/10/2018 (Permalink)
Mold can grow under a multitude of conditions present in our buildings every day. Moisture, however, is the foremost factor that causes mold growth. After all of the recent flooding through central Michigan, mold can be an enormous concern for businesses and homeowners. If standing water of is left unattended is not extracted quickly, mold growth and damage can be the result, causing unforeseen expenses.
If homeowners or business owners experience any mold damage to their properties and belongings, it is beneficial to contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun immediately. Mold spores live and grow through moisture and high levels of humidity. If these conditions are left unaddressed, in a time frame within 48 hours, mold will continue to grow and spread. These fungi can also produce a musty odor. We specialize in water and mold mitigation and restoration. Our advanced mold remediation equipment and restoration processes, as well as our certified technicians to help to detect and handle the source of the water problem.
Call SERVPRO of North Calhoun with any questions that you may have. We are available with 24-hour emergency service – including holidays. We are locally owned and operated, which means when you call us, we can respond quickly with the help that you need. Don't try to tackle a mold situation yourself call the pros at SERVPRO. (269) 963-3033.
But What About That Smell?
12/6/2018 (Permalink)
Interesting fact about SERVPRO of North Calhoun, we can deodorize your home and business of the toxins that come from substances such as cigarette smoke!
Tobacco smoke is composed of numerous types of gasses as well as carcinogens and heavy metals, like arsenic, lead, and cyanide. Sticky, highly toxic particulates, like nicotine, can cling to walls and ceilings. Gases can be absorbed into carpets, draperies, and other upholsteries.
Many times hotels or realtors will call on us to come in and clean rooms that have been inhabited by heavy smokers. Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home.
Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors (including animal smells such as skunk and wet dog). Call us today 269 963 3033
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County and Express Employment Professionals Giving Back
10/29/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County and Express Employment Professionals Giving Back through Food Bank of South Central Michigan.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County and Express Employment Professionals have teamed up to assist Food Bank of South Central Michigan to feed the Hungry.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is not only always happy to help in our customer's time of need, but to help in our communities as well.
We will continue to have a bin on at our Battle Creek location, through the first of November, striving to fill our Bin #2.
Thank you to Express Employment Professionals for allowing us to team up and be a part of this worthwhile cause.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always happy to help, whatever the need may be will try our best to accommodate. Give SERVPRO a call 269-963-3033. Community fundraisers or your personal emergency restoration - mitigation needs.
North Calhoun County Tends to Experience Mold Challenges.
10/29/2018 (Permalink)
In North Calhoun County, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.
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 – 269-963-3033
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always happy to help.
Why SERVPRO of North Calhoun is the Best for Commercial Fire Cleaning
10/8/2018 (Permalink)
Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your North Calhoun Business or Home
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
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.
This picture depicts a kitchen clean SERVPRO of North Calhoun was brought on to perform following a grease fire in the kitchen. The kitchen was restored and in functioning conditioning in two days, customer was left extremely satisfied.
We are always happy to help.
When Storms or Floods hit North Calhoun County, SERVPRO is ready!
10/8/2018 (Permalink)
Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Calhoun County.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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 Calhoun County, 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
269-963-3033
Why SERVPRO of North Calhoun is the Best for Fire Damage Restoration.
10/8/2018 (Permalink)
Extensive Fire Leaves Smoke and Soot Damage, Causing Pervasive Odor. If You Experience this in Your North Calhoun County Home call 269-963-3033.
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.
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 North Calhoun County 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.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 269-963-3033
We are always happy to help.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is the Experienced in Mold Remediation Restoration
10/8/2018 (Permalink)
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 269-963-3033
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is certified in mold remediation.
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business.
- 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.
Call us and we are happy to help.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun Giving Back to the Community
9/24/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun Giving Back to the Community -Helping Food Bank of South Central Michigan
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County continues to reach out and find ways to give back to our community. We are happy that Express Employment Professionals have assisted in helping us obtain the food collection barrel to collect non- perishables. The collection is to help the Food Bank of South Central Michigan, which is located right here in Battle Creek, Michigan.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always here and happy to help.
Why SERVPRO of North Calhoun is the Best for Mold Remediation
9/12/2018 (Permalink)
In North Calhoun County, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.
Does Your North Calhoun County Home Have A Mold Problem?
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 – 269-963-3033
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is Happy to Help With Commercial Commercial Water Mitigation.
9/12/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun to the rescue when a local school chimney caves in. Allowing water and debris to saturate the interior.
Flooding and water damage events at North Calhoun County 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 North Calhoun
SERVPRO of North Calhoun 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.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun Offers Expertise on Fire Restoration
9/12/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun was able to immediately assist our local Veterans Administration's Hospital after they had experienced a fire.
Fire and smoke damage events at North Calhoun County commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small fire 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 North Calhoun
SERVPRO of North Calhoun specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a fire or smoke 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.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is Always Ready for Dispatch
9/12/2018 (Permalink)
Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in North Calhoun County .
Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage at SERVPRO of North Calhoun County.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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 North Calhoun County, 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 269-963-3033
Tips to Help During Flooding Events
9/12/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Calhoun County and surrounding area.
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 North Calhoun 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 – 269-963-3033
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 North Calhoun County
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is the Certified in Bio-hazard Remediation Restoration.
9/12/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County's Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your North Calhoun County Home.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 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.
This included Bio-hazard certification.
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 North Calhoun County
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. As well as Bio-hazardous conditions. 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.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun Count and Battle Creek Area Association of Realtors Golf Outing
9/12/2018 (Permalink)
North Calhoun County and Surrounding Areas: We provide immediate service day or night!
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County and local business members recently joined forces in a golf outing held by the Battle Creek Area Association of Realtors.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County enjoys helping out in the community where needed and when they can.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Calhoun County and the surrounding area. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always here and happy to help. 269-963-3033
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County Large Industrial Water Loss
9/12/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County had to bring all resources on hand to an industrial water loss.
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 North Calhoun
SERVPRO of North Calhoun 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.
Meet Our Crew https://franchiseadmin.SERVPRO.com/CrewPhotos/Index
Torrential Storm Damage to Home
9/7/2018 (Permalink)
A home with major damage following torrential storm flooding. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County was able to assist.
SERVPRO ofNorth Calhounspecializes 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.
When storms hit North Calhoun County, 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.
Does Your North Calhoun County Home Have A Mold Problem?
9/4/2018 (Permalink)
Undetected water line had cracked. Leaking a little at a time. Thus causing a large mold situation. SERVPRO of North Calhoun provided remediation.
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.
Overhead Frozen Pipe
9/4/2018 (Permalink)
One of our customers experienced frozen pipes while in Florida. SERVPRO of North Calhoun made it "Like it never even happened." before he returned.
Winter is soon to be upon us. Ensure that SERVPRO of North Calhoun's number is readily available. In the event you should experience a frozen pipe.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun can make it like it never even happened!
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 269-963-3033
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 North Calhoun 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)?
Large Commercial Water Loss
8/29/2018 (Permalink)
Massive industrial flood calling for the "big guns'.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun always here to help.
A large water main break caused the industrial offices of this warehouse to flood. Some containing 6' of water. SERVPRO of North Calhoun was called to come and mitigate the offices, cubicles, warehouses and restrooms. An extreme amount of contents to manipulate.
We reached out for additional resources, equipment. This picture indicates the two large desiccant dehumidifiers brought in to help dry and restore the loss.
The loss was restored to good as before flooding, customer was happy. SERVPRO of North Calhoun was in and out in 5 days.
Cooking and Fires
5/7/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
Did you know that cooking is the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries?
- Unattended cooking cause nearly 90% of all kitchen fires.
- Home fires are more likely to start in your kitchen than any other room in your home.
- Cooking equipment was involved in 47% of home fires in 2011-2015.
- Having a working smoke alarm reduces ones chances of being injured in a fire by half.
You can help to avoid a fire starting in your kitchen by following these tips.
- Never leave cooking food unattended.
- Stay in the kitchen when you're frying, grilling or broiling food. If you need to leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn the stove off.
- Check food regularly if you're baking, boiling or roasting it and always use a timer.
- Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
- Keep the stove area clean or items that can catch fire such as, pot holders, towels, bags and other appliances.
- Clean cooking surfaces regularly to avoid grease buildup.
- If you're cooking and a fire starts in a pan, slide a lid over the burning pan and turn off the burner. Leave the lid in place until the pan is completely cool. Moving the pan can cause injury and spread the fire. Never pour water on a grease fire.
- Consider purchasing a fire extinuisher to keep in your kitchen. You can contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of an extinguisher.
- Remember: Smoke detectors save lives! Install an 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 and replace the batteries at least once a year.
If you or your family find yourself a victim of a house fire. Call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County, we are available 24-hours a day for any emergency you encounter. Our techs are trained in the fire restoration. Call us at 269-963-3033 for your fire restoration needs.
Tornado Safety
5/1/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
In Michigan tornadoes occur from April to July and we average 16 a year. Typically a tornado is grounded for 10 minutes and travels 5 miles. In extreme cases tornadoes are known to be grounded for an hour and travel over 100 miles.
Being prepared for tornadoes is difficult, although meteorologists are better able to predict the signs a twister is coming, they can still strike with little warning. The first step is knowing the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A tornado watch means the conditions are favorable for a tornado to happen. A tornado warning means a tornado or rotation has been spotted or picked up by radar. Even a few minutes warning can provide an opportunity for those in harms way to seek shelter. Communities with a history of tornado activity may have a warning siren or digital messaging system to alert residents to seek shelter. If your area doesn't have these systems, there are other signs to watch out for: a dark greenish sky/a dark, rotating, low altitude cloud/large hail/loud roar(like a train)
If a tornado has been sighted, stay calm but move quickly to the safest place possible and remember, don't wait until you see the tornado to take action!
If you're at home, the safest place to be is underground. Basements are generally the most protected area, but if that's not an option take cover in the central most part of your home away from windows. This could be a bathroom, closet, hallway or even under a heavy piece of furniture.
If you're at work (in an office building) the safest place is on the lowest level possible, in the central most area away from windows. You'll want to crouch down to be as low to the ground as possible and cover your head with your arms. Make sure to take the stairs, they can provide shelter and if power is lost you could become trapped in an elevator.
If you're in your vehicle, abandon it and seek shelter in a sturdy structure. If you're in open country lay face down in the nearest ditch, you'll want to lay flat and protect your the back of your head. Remember to stay as far away from trees and cars as you can and never take cover under a bridge or highway overpass.
Stay in your shelter until the storm has passed or emergency personnel arrive. If it is safe to go outside watch out for downed power lines and stay away from puddles that have power lines in them.
Once it is safe to clean up your home and property call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County. We are available for any emergency 24-hours a day at 269-963-3033
14 Bad habits that could start a fire
4/25/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
House fires are more common than you may realize, with potential fire starters like light bulbs, laptops and lint traps hiding in plain sight throughout your home, disguised as harmless everyday necessities. Are you guilty of these bad habits that could start a fire in your home?
Misusing Electric Blankets: A warm and cozy electric blanket is a welcome comfort in the winter but, it also poses a potential fire hazard. Never allow pets to snuggle on top and don't pile extra covers over the electric blanket. Excessive heat build up may lead to fire. Never bend the coils, always keep your blanket at it's lowest setting and always turn it off in the morning.
Piling up dirty rags: A wood stain may be the perfect finishing touch on a DIY project, but later on, that pile of oil-soaked rags you tossed in the corner could trigger the perfect storm. Those rags are a very real fire hazard if left unattended. The rags could oxidize and spontaneously combust, causing a house fire. Two proper ways to dispose of oily rags are to lay them flat outside to dry or to put them in a metal can filled with water and a tight fitting lid.
Neglecting appliance recalls: Home appliances have caused an estimated 150,000 fires each year, just during the last decade! A significant number of these were caused by faulty appliances. You can visit www.recalls.gov or register your appliance with the manufacturer to keep on top of recalls and prevent disaster.
Lingering dryer lint: We're sure you know emptying the lint screen increases your dryers efficiency, but did you know that lint is flammable? The combination of lint buildup and excessive heat is a recipe for disaster. Make sure to clean the interior of the dryer frame as well as the dryer vent and exhaust duct regularly to clear away lint and clogs and to reduce the risk of fire.
Letting your laptop overheat: If you own a laptop, you know how hot it can get, Leaving your computer on your bed, chair, rug or other soft flammable surface, you increase the risk of restricting airflow through the cooling vents. This can cause your laptop to overheat and possibly catch fire. Keeping your laptop on a desk or table will help prevent fires.
Choosing the wrong wattage: If you've ever thought "It's okay to use this 60 watt bulb in this 40 watt socket" you're not alone. However, you are putting your home at risk. A leading cause of electrical fires is using a light bulb with a wattage that is too high for a lamp or light fixture. Always check the light fixtures maximum wattage and never go over the recommended rating.
Using too many extension cords: Extension cords are meant to be a temporary response to a lack of electrical outlets; not a permanent solution. The reason why is this: connecting a large number of cords for a significant amount of time causes an overload that will lead to a short circuit - which could start a fire. Hiring a qualified electrician to install additional outlets could help you avoid this problem altogether.
DIY projects you're not qualified to perform: Americas will spend about $200 billion fixing up their homes this year and nearly a fifth of that will go toward DIY projects. Jobs involving electrical wiring, plumbing and HVAC units should never be completed without a qualified professional. Gas leaks and electrical sparks result from improper installation and are a common cause of house fires. Hire a licensed professional instead of attempting dangerous DIYS on your own to avoid putting your family and home at risk.
Disregarding dust: Built up dust can be a fire hazard if it collects in and around electrical sockets, electronics and even floor heaters. Vacuuming on a regular basis, especially behind electronics, will significantly reduce the chance of dust particles catching fire.
Improperly storing batteries: Storing 9 volt batteries in your kitchen junk drawer might be putting your home and family at risk. When loose batteries roll around with other metals such as paper clips or screws, the two terminals could short out, possibly generating enough heat to ignite flammables nearby. If storing the batteries in the original package isn't an option, place a piece of electrical tape over the terminal to prevent this possibility.
Ignoring unwanted guests: Rodents like mice and rats like to chew on electrical wires to control the length of their teeth. Over time, they can remove the sheathing, this leaves the wires exposed. The electrical current travelling through the wire generate heat and if the wire is exposed this could lead to sparks, which in turn could ignite the surrounding surface. Call an exterminator if you suspect you have rodents.
Forgetting the chimney sweep: There are common cause of chimney fires, such as, dead birds, raccoon nests, cracked mortar and built up creosote. The National Fire Protection Assoc. recommends a professional chimney sweep at least once a year. Also, when building a fire in your fireplace, never light it with kerosene. Always use an approved fire starter.
Overlooking the range hood: Ovens and cook tops are the most common sources of kitchen fires. But, range hoods are also a potential threat. Grease builds up over time and can drip down onto the cook top, possibly starting a fire. These flames could easily reach your cabinets and before you know it your kitchen could be engulfed. Regularly clean and maintain your range hood to keep your kitchen out of harms way.
Unwisely arranging furniture: Furniture placed too close to a wood stove could spontaneously ignite. Pyrolysis is the chemical decomposition of a combustible item. This occurs when an object is continually exposed to a heat source and dries out. This leading-yet seldom considered cause of fires doesn't even require a direct flame. It only takes heat and time
If you find yourself in need of restoration after a fire, call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County. We're available 24-hours at 269-963-3033
Testimonial Tuesday
4/24/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
"Our sincere appreciation for your timely response to our problem. The gentlemen who came today did a superb job and went beyond duty and expectations. I appreciate your concern and efforts, and celebrate the fine work that you and SERVPRO provide. We shall highly recommend your company to anyone in need of assistance with restoration. Thanks again, Kingery and Laura C" We appreciate all of our customers, and are genuinely happy when they are happy in their time of need. Today we received this email from one of those customers and his wife. Job well done team!
5 Tips for Commercial Carpet Cleaning
4/23/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
As a business owner, when it comes to having a highly visited office, you want to make the best impression possible. If potential or even existing clients see dirt and spots they will associate that filth with your business. Wear and tear will be accelerated by the dirt and germs accumulating in the carpet, not only that but it will greatly reduce the overall cleanliness of the office. There are a few simple ways to protect the carpeting and keep it clean.
- Understanding the difference between stains and spots. The only difference is the amount of time it was left to sit. The affected area should be blotted with a paper towel to absorb as much of the spills as possible as soon as it happens. Be sure to never wipe or rub the spill into the carpet as it can cause lasting damage.
- Pre-spraying the carpet with cleaning solution to remove spots. Make sure you follow the product instructions, if used improperly you may risk having a sticky residue left behind, which can cause even more dirt to be collected over time.
- Choosing the best equipment for the job and routine cleaning, such as vacuuming daily, can reduce the need for deep cleaning.
- Vacuuming before attempting to clean. This will remove the dry soil from the carpet and prevent it from becoming embedded in the carpet, which can happen if it gets wet.
- Train your staff. Daily routine cleaning will reduce cost over time and help the carpeting to last longer.
If you find yourself in need of deep cleaning of your carpets, turn to the experts at SERVPRO of North Calhoun County. Call us today to schedule an appointment. 269-963-3033
10 Things you should know about mold.
3/28/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
Mold is not usually a problem indoors unless mold spores land on a wet or damp surface and begin growing. Here are 10 things you should know about mold and moisture to help prevent mold growth.
- Mold poses potential health risks. The effects and symptoms associated with mold exposure include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
- There is no practical way to eliminate all mold. The best way to control mold growth indoors is to control moisture.
- If mold is a problem in your home or business. The mold must be cleaned and sources of moisture eliminated.
- If a water problem or leak is the issue, call a professional to fix the source of the problem.
- Reduce indoor humidity. This is the best way to decrease mold growth. Vent bathrooms, dryers and other moisture generating sources to the outdoors. Use air conditioners and de-humidifiers. Increase ventilation and use exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing or cleaning.
- Clean and dry any damp or wet surface. This should be done within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
- Add insulation. This will reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces.
- In areas where there is perpetual moisture problem, avoid installing carpet.
- Molds can be found almost anywhere. Virtually any substance can harbor mold, providing moisture is present.
- Always seek advice from a professional. If you believe you have mold and always make sure to use the proper protective equipment to ensure safety.
If your home or business suffers any water damage, mold can grow quickly and spread throughout a home in as little as 48-72 hours. If you suspect your home or business has mold call the professionals here at SERVPRO of North Calhoun County, we can inspect any visible mold and remediate it from your home.
Let's be social!
3/26/2018 (Permalink)
Find SERVPRO of North Calhoun County on Facebook.
www.facebook.com/SERVPRO9188battlecreek
North Calhoun County, Like us on Facebook!
Join our Facebook community and keep in touch with what's going on.
We provide valuable tips for home and business cleaning, advice to avoid costly repairs and a whole lot more. Like us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/SERVPRO9188battlecreek
We understand the stress and worry that comes with water or fire damage and the disruption it can cause in your home, business and life. Here at SERVPRO of North Calhoun County our goal is to help minimize the disruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential properties after disasters such as; water damage/mold, fire damage and/or smoke damage. We also provide carpet cleaning, trauma cleanup and vandalism cleanup for your home or business. Our staff is highly trained in damage restoration. Rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge and experience to restore your property.
If you would like to schedule service for your home or business call us 24 hours a day at 269-963-3033.
Do you know how to help prevent mold growth?
3/22/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
Mold, while it can be good - it's essential for making penicillin for example - it can also be very, very bad. Especially when growing undetected in your home.
Mold can grow anywhere, on any surface, like carpet, clothing, food, paper and even in places you can't see. Such places as areas inside of your walls around leaking pipes or condensation, the backside of drywall and above ceiling tiles. Mold spores spread easily and cannot be completely eradicated. Not only is mold difficult and costly to fix, it can also produce allergens and irritants(and rarely toxins) that may compromise you or your families health.
So what do you do if you're concerned about mold growth in your home?
The best approach is preventing mold before it becomes a problem. The key to mold prevention is simple: Moisture control. Here are some ways to curb moisture in your home.
- Prevent moisture with proper ventilation. Your routine domestic activities could be encouraging the growth of mold in your home. Make sure something as simple as cooking, showering or doing laundry doesn't invite mold by ensuring those areas of your home are properly ventilated. Vent appliances that produce moisture to the outside of your home.
- Dry wet areas immediately. Mold cannot grow without moisture, so be sure to dry wet areas right away. Water from a leaky pipe or a heavy rainfall should be dried within 24-48 hours. If you've had flood damage, remove carpet, furniture and bedding if it cannot be dried completely.
- Improve air flow in your home. As temps drop the air is able to hold less moisture. Without good air flow in your home you may begin to notice the extra moisture on your windows, walls and floor. Increased circulation is created by opening doors between rooms, moving furniture away from walls and open doors to closets that may be cooler than the rooms they are in. Letting fresh air in helps to reduce moisture and keep mold at bay.
If you find mold in your home be sure to call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Calhoun County at 269-963-3033
Commercial Water Damage
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
Commercial water damage and how to handle it.
Water damage can strike your commercial property at any time and without notice. The effects can be devastating to a business owner who is now faced with having to clean up the water damage and reopen their business as soon as possible. Do you know how to handle water damage at your business? Are you prepared to make the necessary decisions after a flood, pipe break or roof leak, to protect your property? Most importantly, do you have a plan?
Thankfully, this situation doesn’t have to be as scary as it sounds. A little preparation for a water emergency and a plan of action if the disaster should occur can significantly reduce property damage and get you back on your feet as soon as possible.
Commercial Water Damage Prevention
Large-scale losses can be prevented by a few simple guidelines. Know where your emergency water shut-off valves are and have a contingency plan in place in case you’re not available. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County can help you set up an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP). Make sure someone you trust has the authorization to make decisions if you’re not available.
Causes of Commercial Water Damage
Water damage can happen at any time. Whether from natural disasters, frozen or broken pipes, leaking roofs, flooding or even sewage backups, water damage is a serious concern and poses major threat to your company.
Understanding the source of water is crucial in the cleanup process, as clean water from a broken pipe or leaking roof during a rain storm will be treated differently than flood waters or water from a sewage backup. Always protect your health and allow the professionals at SERVPRO of North Calhoun County handle the cleanup and restoration of your property.
Preventing Mold Growth after Water Damage
Mold growth can begin 24-48 hours after water damage, starting the extraction and drying process as soon as possible is your best line of defense against mold. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County will be concerned about preventing and mitigating mold growth after any water damage in your business.
Proper removal and drying of the water is critical after a water emergency and will prevent long term problems that some experience after attempting to clean up water damage themselves or calling someone who doesn’t have the proper expertise or equipment.
If your business has been affected by water damage, call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County at 269-963-3033. Our professionally trained staff is available 24-hours a day for any emergency you may face.
Safety Tips for Smoke Alarms and Family Emergency Planning
3/5/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
Your ability to get out of your house during a fire depends on an advanced warning from smoke alarms and advanced planning.
We know talking about disasters, especially fires, can be scary for your kids. But, emergency planning is crucial for your families safety during a fire. Talks like these also help keep you and your family confident when it comes to an emergency situation and needing to get out of the home quickly. Talk to your kids about keeping low to the ground, feeling for heat from doors before trying to open them and a meeting area outside of the home that is safely away from the structure.
Smoke alarms are a key part of a home escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads quickly. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly. Follow these safety tips for smoke alarms to ensure you and your families safety.
- Closed doors can slow the spread of fire, heat and smoke. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom and outside each separate sleeping area. Make sure to install alarms on every level of the home, including the basement. Smoke alarms should be interconnected, when one sounds they all sound.
- Large homes may require extra smoke alarms.
- Test all alarms at least once a month. You can do this by simply pressing the test button.
- Smoke alarms should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms, they should be 10 feet away from the stove.
- There are special smoke alarms for those hard of hearing or deaf. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
- Replace all smoke alarms once they are 10 years old.
If a fire does happen in your home, remember SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is available 24-hours a day for your emergencies at 269-963-3033
How to protect your sewer from a backup.
2/27/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
Clogged sewers can wreak havoc on your home, but you can help to prevent that from happening. Learn the causes of sewer backups, what you're responsible for maintaining as a homeowner and how to protect against sewer backups.
You may not realize that you are responsible for the maintenance and repair of the sewer lateral, a privately owned pipeline connecting a property to the publicly owned sewer pipeline, usually located in the street.
-Sewer-lateral is owned and maintained by the property owner, this responsibility includes any part of the lateral that extends into the street.
The first step in preventing sewer backups is knowing what causes them, so here is a list of the most common causes of sewer backups.
Aging Sewer Systems
- The American Society of Civil Engineers indicates that the nations 500,000 miles of sewer pipelines are on average over 30 years old. As the numbers of homes connected to already aging sewer systems increases the occurrences of sanitary sewer backups is rapidly increasing.
Combined Pipelines
- Combined systems, these combine storm water and raw sewage, have problems arise especially during rain storms. The systems are exposed to a larger volume than they are capable of handling. This then results in a sewer backup, this usually causes sewage to spew out in basements or other low lying drains.
Tree Roots
- Service pipe joints and sewer pipeline cracks create the perfect opportunity for small roots of trees and shrubs to make their way in. This can cause extensive damage or blockages as they grow larger. If the tree is on private property the owner of the property and tree may have to cover the cost of the sewage clean up. If the issue results from city and private trees the cost is then split between the city and property owner.
Sanitary Main Blockages
- Blockages can occur in a city sanitary main, if not detected this can cause sewage to back up into your home or business. Typically this happens slowly and generally have early indications of such problems.
Preventing Sewer Backups
Properly dispose of grease
- Washing grease down a drain with hot water is not recommended, cooking oil should be poured in a heat resistant container and disposed of. As the grease cools, it solidifies in the drain or sewer pipelines. This causes the lines to constrict and eventually will clog.
Properly dispose of paper products
- Hygienic wipes, paper towels and feminine products do not deteriorate quickly and can produce a great deal of trouble in sewer pipelines.
Maintain tree roots
- If tree roots are causing problems in your sewer lateral, you may want to consider have the tree removed by a professional.
Replace pipelines with plastic pipes
- Plastic actually prevents tree roots from entering the pipeline
Correct illegal plumbing connections
- Connecting your sanitary sewer to French drains, sump pumps and other flood control systems is illegal. This actually allows debris to clog your pipeline. Contact a plumber to correct any pre-existing illegal connections.
Install a backwater prevention valve
- This valve prevents sewer backflows and is installed into the sewer pipeline, it can sometimes be installed into a drain line in the basement of your home or business.
If you find yourself in a situation with a sewer backup, keep in mind they are considered very dangerous. The water is extremely unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could lead to serious illness. Failing to properly remove such substances could contribute to an unhealthy and dangerous environment.
Most Common Causes of Indoor Flooding
2/19/2018 (Permalink)
The fact that your property is filled with pipes bringing water in and out of the building might not be something you think much about. Whether its the sink you wash your hands in, the washing machine that cleans your clothes or the dishwasher cleaning your dishes, you need a constant flow of water to keep your home running smoothly. But, that much water can also mean a decent chance of indoor flooding.
Indoor flooding is one of the leading causes of water damage and can require basic plumbing repairs and water damage restoration services. To help you combat floods when they strike, here are the most common causes of indoor flooding.
Leaky or broken pipes
The most obvious cause is leaky or broke water pipes. Pipes can burst thanks to changes in water pressure or faulty setup, regardless of the cause pipe problems often cause flooding.
A broken pipe can flood your home in a matter of minutes, filling your property with water that will require water damage repairs and even carpet cleaning services depending on where the burst occurs. Meanwhile a leaky pipe is a warning sign of problems to come and will require a plumber to fix. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for mold, requiring the likes of SERVPRO of North Calhoun's mold remediation to combat.
Leaking Water Heaters
A standard water heater is designed to constantly fill itself, providing you with warm water while showering or washing dishes. Having a leak in your water heater can cause a major disaster.
Even a small leak can cause extreme flooding due to its endless flow of water. Inspecting your water heater and keeping up with its maintenance helps to prevent leaks.
Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines
Water needs to be able to flow to and from your house with ease. That flow can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Clogs that seem benign, allowing a slow drain, may seem to merely be an inconvenience. But, those clogs can become much worse, with the potential to cause your sinks, toilets and showers to overflow with water. This can result in big floods that cause even bigger damage. Make sure to contact a plumber if you notice a minor clog, this way you can keep your problem from getting worse.
Faulty Washing Machine Hose
Washing machines are extremely convenient, allowing you to free up your schedule by cleaning clothes with ease. But, like all appliances that use water, a malfunctioning washing machine can cause flooding.
Faulty washing machine hoses are the most common problem. A leak in your intake hose-the hose that brings water to the machine- can worsen over time and cause flooding in your home. There are steps you can take to keep your washing machine safe, like installing a washing machine valve shut off kit, but there will always be a chance of your machine causing a flood.
Floods in your home or business can't be controlled. Thankfully, if you can recognize the common causes of indoor flooding, you'll be prepared to prevent floods before they happen and be able to handle them if they do.
If you find yourself in need of water damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County, available 24-hours a day, at 269-963-3033
Are you prepared for a Biohazard?
2/15/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033
Ready plan for Biohazards
We all know life can throw unexpected situations in your direction. The big question is: Are you prepared?
Here at SERVPRO of North Calhoun we will come and perform an inspection with you so that we can help determine a plan should you have a bio-hazard disaster happen at your business. Our professionally trained technicians will create a Ready Plan with you, this way you and your team members will know exactly what to do and whom to contact if faced with a disaster. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is available 24-hours because we're here to help make it "Like it never even happened." at 269-963-3033
SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is dedicated to helping our customers when disaster strikes and are here to help make it "Like it never even happened."
Biological hazards and How SERVPRO of North Calhoun Can Help.
2/9/2018 (Permalink)
What are biological hazards?
Biological hazards, also known as biohazards, refer to a risk to human health or the environment due to biological work. This can include samples of a micro-organism, virus or toxin (from a biological source) that can affect the human health. These substances can also be harmful to animals.
Examples of Biohazards:
- Human or animal blood
- Human or animal waste/bodily fluids
- Deceased animals
- Human remains
- Used IV(intravenous) needles/syringes
- Medical Waste
- Rotting food
According to the Center for Disease Control there are 4 levels of biohazards. Level 1 are agents that pose minimal threat to humans and the environment (ex. E. Coli). Level 2 are agents that can cause severe illness in humans, these are transmitted through direct contact with infected material (ex. Hepatitis, HIV). Level 3 are pathogens that can become airborne and pose serious risk (ex. Tuberculosis). Level 4 are pathogens that pose high risk of life threatening disease that have no treatments (ex. Ebola).
Clean up and Restoration
Failure to properly remove these substances can contribute to dangerous environments that pose serious health risks. SERVPRO of North Calhoun is trained to safely remove bio hazardous substances and dispose of them properly. Equipped with the proper safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can transform these environments back into clean, healthy and safe homes and businesses.
Decontamination of a home or office due to chemical spills, hoarding, sewage backups or other biohazards can be scary and dangerous. The correct training and experience is key when deciding a cleanup company to resolve these situations.
That's why SERVPRO of North Calhoun is here to help make it "Like it never even happened."
What Causes Mold Damage?
10/23/2017 (Permalink)
While mold damage can happen at any time of the year, certain months and seasons are more likely than others to produce cases of mold growth in Michigan. Mold is hardy and adaptable, but also tends to favor certain key conditions when it grows most profusely. In some states, these conditions exist year-round, and they consequently experience more overall mold damage cases than our local area. In Michigan, however, weather and conditions are highly seasonal, and you may be more likely to develop mold damage in your home in the spring or summer for a few reasons.
Wetness
Wetness is a key factor in how at-risk an area is for mold damage. In the spring, snowmelt produces a lot of runoff and even some amount of flooding. This tends to get into homes and properties, and moisture in generally dry areas is one of the most important causative factors in mold growth. Also, relative humidity increases once the days grow longer, and the land gets warmer, which can sharply increase the rate at which mold matures and reproduces.
Temperature
The second key factor in accelerated mold growth is temperature, and in Colorado, warm temperatures suitable for mold growth are a seasonal occurrence. Typically, it is too cold in autumn through mid-spring for mold to grow rapidly, and only the summer months provide warmth desirable for the mold. When combined with the wetness of that period, late spring and early summer end up being the times when we receive the most mold damage calls.
Whether your mold damage has happened in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, SERVPRO of North Calhoun is a local and accessible restoration and remediation company available 24/7 to help you deal with any mold damage on your property. Call us at (269) 963-3033 for our services or a quote.
Dangerous Mold
10/4/2017 (Permalink)
Even if you are a clean person, that doesn’t guarantee that you won’t have an issue with mold.Unfortunately, mold, like bed bugs, doesn’t care about your level of cleanliness, level of income, or where you went to college. Anyone can have a mold problem in their home or business at any time.
The scary thing is that mold can be growing for quite a while before it becomes noticeable, your professional at SERVPRO of North Calhoun County has compiled this handy list of some do's and don’ts you should follow when it comes to mold removal:
24/7 support - (269)-963-3033
Do:
- Examine your home or business regularly. Most types of mold share some obvious warning signs. For example, a musty smell in a damp basement usually means there’s mold around. Black, gray, brown, or even white clusters of mold on walls, carpeting or flooring are easy to spot with the naked eye. Be observant about your home and check it regularly for mold.
- Call us 24/7 - (269) 963-3033. A professional can determine which type of mold you might have, where it originates from, and how to safely perform mold removal.
Don’t:
- Try the DIY approach. Because some molds are toxic to pets and humans, it’s not safe to tackle this problem on your own. The money you think you might save by DIY-ing this isn’t worth your health.
- Wait. Mold can grow quickly and can be dangerous. If you suspect a problem, call it in ASAP!
- Make the mold feel unwelcome. Mold likes the darkness and warm, moist air. Don’t roll out the red carpet with their favorite things! Fix the leaks, install dehumidifiers and don’t ignore the warning signs of more mold growth.
For more mold do's and don’ts, contact our trusted mold removal professionals at SERVPRO North Calhoun County today.
In North Calhoun Mold Can Spread Through a Home in as Little as 48 Hours.
9/29/2017 (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 – (269) 963-3033
SERVPRO of North Calhoun Certifications
9/29/2017 (Permalink)
Certifications
- RCT - Rug Cleaning Technician
- LCT - Leather Cleaning Technician
- RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
- WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
- CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
- AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
- RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
- CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
- SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
- ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
- OCT - Odor Control Technician
- UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
- IICRC Certified Firm
- FCT - Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician
- SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician.
The technicians at SERVPRO of North Calhoun are up to date in all our certificates listed above. We pride ourselves in being the best at every aspect of our job to make your loss move along as smooth and quick as possible. We are here for our customer to make it look “Like it never even happened.”
We Are An IICRC Certified Firm
9/1/2017 (Permalink)
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.
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.
Does Your Home Have A Mold Problem?
9/1/2017 (Permalink)
Dont let your home become a Mold House! Call us NOW- 269-963-3033.
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. Call us now! (269) 963-3033
- 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.
Water Damage From Contaminated Water.
9/1/2017 (Permalink)
Sewage back ups can happen to anyone! Here are a few Do's and Don'ts to keep you safe until SERVPRO can get there to assist you with cleanup.
DO:
- Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated from sewage.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.
DON’T:
- Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
- Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
- Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
- Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.
Toilets are not the only source of a sewage back up, back ups can also happen in bath tubs and drains in the basement. If you're not sure if it's contaminated water please call SERVPRO to check it out instead of inspecting it yourself. Call today 269 963 3033
Mold Remediation
8/30/2017 (Permalink)
Mold resulting in extensive damage.
Mold can grow under a multitude of conditions present in our buildings every day. Moisture, however, is the foremost factor that causes mold growth. After all of the recent flooding through central Michigan, mold can be an enormous concern for businesses and homeowners. If standing water of is left unattended is not extracted quickly, mold growth and damage can be the result, causing unforeseen expenses.
If homeowners or business owners experience any mold damage to their properties and belongings, it is beneficial to contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun immediately. Mold spores live and grow through moisture and high levels of humidity. If these conditions are left unaddressed, in a time frame within 48 hours, mold will continue to grow and spread. These fungi can also produce a musty odor. We specialize in water and mold mitigation and restoration. Our advanced mold remediation equipment and restoration processes, as well as our certified technicians to help to detect and handle the source of the water problem.
Call SERVPRO of North Calhoun with any questions that you may have. We are available with 24-hour emergency service – including holidays. We are locally owned and operated, which means when you call us, we can respond quickly with the help that you need. Don't try to tackle a mold situation yourself call the pros at SERVPRO. (269) 963-3033.
Storm Flood Damage
8/30/2017 (Permalink)
Storm flooding damage.
Flood Safety:
According the Red Cross 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!
Below is some knowledge that might help you keep safe and better prepared in the event of flood situations that arise.
TIPS:
Know the Difference!
A flood/flash flood WATCH means a flood or flash flood is possible.
A flood/flash flood WARNING means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon. TAKE IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONS!
HAVE A PLAN:
- Talk with your family about what to do if a flood watch or warning is issued. Discussing floods ahead of time helps reduce fear, especially for younger children.
- Make sure you have access to NOAA radio broadcasts:
- Find out if local streams or rivers flood easily.
- Ensure that every member of your family carries a Safe and Well Wallet Card
- Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box. You may need quick, easy access to these documents. Keep them in a safe place less likely to be damaged during a flood. Take pictures on a phone and keep copies of important documents and files on a flash drive that you can carry with you on your house or car keys.
SERVPRO of North Calhoun is available 24/7, 269-963-3033, just a phone call away and always willing to help.
SERVPRO Super Run
10/3/2016 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Staff in her super hero gear.
This past Saturday (October 1, 2016) was The Super Run in Kalamazoo. It was very fitting for it to rain on the event considering that we are the hero to water damage. While other runners were decked out in Marvel and DC comic book heroes our staff member wore our orange and green colors proudly!
The runners’ fee went to support nonprofit groups such as:
- Playworks -a charity that creates safe and healthy recesses at schools in Michigan.
- Savvy Cyber Kids- A group that helps keep children safe online and rallies against cyber bullying
- American Association for Cancer and Research
- Superhero Training – A charity that funds special classes, gifted and talented programs, and after school programs for children in Michigan.
SERVPRO is proud to be a part of a fundraiser that benefits children in our state. We look forward to contributing to future causes.