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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison Counties Offers Pack Out Services

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Professional Pack Out Services in Virginia

If you have had damage to your home or business you should call the restoration specialists, SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison Counties. Restoration has a lot of elements that not everyone considers. Pack out services are a good example of something most don't take into consideration.


During restoration work, a pack-out refers to the moving of contents out of a damaged structure to access work areas and perform restoration work in our facilities.


When a customer’s home or business requires extensive, specialized cleaning, SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison Counties specialists can conduct an organized, efficient pack out.

By itemizing, recording and relocating your contents to a secure location, the move-out will provide several benefits, including:

Provide extensive restoration to contents.
Protecting contents from further on-site damage.

A quicker remodeling process.
Protecting items from potential damage.

The pack out process usually consists of these steps:

Video the job site.


Perform an initial scope & job estimate.


Pack, tag, inventory, and additional sorting of clean and claim items.


Move to a warehouse, clean and deodorize, and repack.


Claim list suggestions from the customer.


Move items back to the customer.


When restoration is completed, SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison Counties will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. Give us a call with any questions (540) 513-3111.

Powerful Virginia Storms and Other Causes of Flooding

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

A flooded basement with items in water is shown Poor drainage is often the cause of a flooded basement

A flooded basement can be a serious headache. Thankfully, there are preventative measures you can take to lessen the odds it happens to you.

Difficult To Control Causes


Water can invade your basement as a result of complications that cannot be easily remedied without the expertise of a specialist. These origins include:

Surface water leaks.


Storm sewer systems backing up.


Wet soil pushed via hydrostatic pressure.


Preventing these causes may lie outside your immediate control. Other reasons you may experience a deluge within your basement can be handled much more directly.

Easy To Implement Prevention Measures


Poor drainage is often the cause of a flooded basement. Therefore, it is recommended you install gutters and downspouts to divert water away from your residence. You can bolster this improvement by upgrading windows and doors with ones that are certified watertight.


Deteriorating plumbing is another source of basement inundations. Pipes have varying lifespans. Hire a professional to inspect older homes. Pay attention to water-based appliances such as washing machines that reside within your lower quadrant. Replace supply hoses every three to five years as wear from prolonged usage puts them at risk of cracking or collapsing.


Water leak detection systems are fantastic forms of flood deterrence. Through the use of automatic shut-off valves, these beauties shut down your water supply at the first sign of irregular flow or after floors become damp, preventing troubling situations from developing.


Owning a sump pump means you can remove water and mitigate the damage as soon as it accumulates. Test yours twice a year to be certain it stands ready for when the need suddenly arises. Once your basement has been dried, the next stage is hiring a water restoration service professional to carry out the necessary repairs.


A flooded basement requires intense cleanup.

Lessen the chances you ever have to recondition yours, by implementing these recommended defensive actions.

If you have flooding or storm damage, call the local team of specialists, SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison Counties, (540) 513-3111.

Immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison Counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.


Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison Counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. Our specialists provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Businesses Dealing with Mold Issues

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

A hand is shown near mold on a ceiling Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

If your commercial property has water damage, there will be a lot of things for you as a business owner to deal with. One of the most important is preventing mold growth.

How Water Incursion Leads to Mold
There are a variety of reasons that your business could be inundated with water. The following are some of the most common:

Pipe breaks
Malfunctioning appliances
Heavy rains and flooding
Snow melt

When water from any source enters a building, the risk for mold increases. This is because most indoor areas have all of the conditions necessary for mold growth except a water source. Most commercial buildings are in the right temperature range to sustain mold and have a variety of sources of nutrients present, including drywall, upholstery, and other materials.

If you suspect mold in your business call SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties (540) 513-3111. 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.

Important to Know About Mold:


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 you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. Mold damage often co-occurs with water damage. Fortunately, acting quickly decreases the likelihood of mold appearing and increases the likelihood that you can get back to business. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

Call SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties (540) 513-3111.

Understanding Complicated Commercial Insurance

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

A flood insurance form is shown Your insurance agent can recommend the policies that are necessary for your particular business in your location

You may feel pretty confident about the commercial insurance package your agent has put together for your business, but it may still be lacking something. If you don't have flood insurance, you could be setting yourself up for a devastating loss, particularly if you live in an area that is prone to flooding. Here are some reasons to have proper flood coverage in addition to all the other policies in your portfolio.

Commercial Property Limitations

Your commercial property insurance is essential. A solid policy will cover most of the damages that might occur:

Fire damage to the structure of the building


Stolen property


Vandalism


Damaged business personal property


Repairs to building

Natural disasters are generally not covered under a standard commercial property policy. To protect against flooding from storms, you need additional flood insurance.

Flood Policy Coverage

While a flood policy does not cover damage from the storm to landscaping or others' property, it protects your building and the items in it. Good flood coverage can pay for repairs after a storm. It also covers any damage done to insured items, such as office or production machines, that need to be restored by water remediation specialists.

Legal Requirements

Finally, if you live in an area prone to flooding, a commercial insurance policy that specifically protects against the damage it can cause may be required by law. This is particularly likely if you have a federally backed mortgage or if you rent your commercial property from someone else. In the latter scenario, if the law doesn't require insurance for flooding, your landlord probably does.

Your business needs protection from many problems that may arise. Your insurance agent can recommend the policies that are necessary for your particular business in your location. If you live in an area that floods often, make sure you get flood insurance.

If you have damage, including flooding, to your business or commercial site, call SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties (540) 513-3111. We have trained, certified technicians that can respond quickly.

Lightning, Thunder and Severe Storms

4/13/2022 (Permalink)


Most lightning occurs in the summer, people can be struck at any time of year. Lightning kills about 20 people in the United States each year, and hundreds more are severely injured. Lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times a year. Lightning is interesting to watch but extremely dangerous.

According to the National Weather Service, in the United States, lightning fatalities have decreased over the past 30 years, lightning continues to be one of the top weather killers in the United States. Understanding the dangers of lightning is important so that you can get to a safe place when thunderstorms are on the way.

Understanding Thunder

Thunder is the sound made by a flash of lightning. Lightning heats the air quickly as it passes through the air. Usually, you can hear thunder about 10 miles from a lightning strike. Since lightning can strike outward 10 miles from a thunderstorm, if you hear thunder, you are likely within striking distance from the storm.

Storms can be severe at times and very dangerous. If you have storm damage to your home or business it can be over whelming, luckily there is a place for help. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs. SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison Counties is here to respond quickly when you have storm damage in the Louisa, Orange and Madison areas.

If you are a business owner, storm damage can be very costly. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need. 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.

We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs. SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison Counties.

If You Suspect a Leak in Your Home, Don't Put Off Getting It Fixed

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

a shower pan leak is shown Give us a call if you have water damage or suspect mold, SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties (540) 513-3111.


If you have a bathtub leak, fixing it quickly will lessen the amount of time the water can damage your property. Many homeowners suspect a water problem, but do not know how to determine the source of the leak.

Here are four ways to determine if you might have a water leak coming from your bathroom.


1. Check Ceilings for Rings


Even tiny water leaks can lead to damage over time. If you suspect a bathtub leak and have a room underneath your bathroom, check its ceiling for signs of water damage. Water rings, discolored paint, and sagging ceilings are all signs of water damage coming from above.


2. Look for Warped Walls and Floors


Water can break down and weaken fibrous material. Drywall, baseboards, and sub-floors can all become less stable when water damage occurs. Check your walls and floors for any signs of warping or peeling.


3. Test the Shower Pan


Test your shower pan for leaks by closing off the drain and marking the pan with a piece of tape. Next, fill the basin up to the level of the tape. Leave the water to sit for 24-72 hours. At the end of the waiting period, the water level should still be in the same place it was originally. If the water level has gone down, you may have a shower pan leak.


4. Smell the Bathroom


Leaks can lead to moisture problems, which can lead to mold and mildew overtaking your bathroom. If you cannot see the mold, but suspect a moisture problem, try closing the door for an hour or two. When you re-enter the room, notice if there is an unexpected musky smell. If so, you may have mold or mildew hiding where you cannot see it.


A bathtub leak is a fairly common problem that needs to be taken care of quickly to avoid further damage. Luckily, a professional water remediation company can fix the source of the problem and return your home to its pre-leak condition.


SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties provides 24-hour fire and water damage restoration service. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is critical.

The technician that responds to your water damage is well trained. 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.

Give us a call if you have water damage or suspect mold, SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties (540) 513-3111. We'll get to you quickly. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Protecting Your Home After a Fire

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

Firefighters are shown fighting a house fire If you have fire damage, or questions about restoration, call us, SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties (540) 513-3111.


After a house fire has been extinguished, it may seem like no more damage can be done, this isn't always the case. It is important to board up your home and take other precautions to prevent further problems. The following are three things you can do after a house fire to protect your home.


Secure the Property


Your home is vulnerable to a variety of threats after a fire has occurred, including:

Wildlife


Trespassers


Inclement weather

After the fire department has told you it is safe to do so, you can begin making temporary repairs to your home. There will likely be broken windows, holes, and other openings resulting from the fire damage and extinguishing efforts. Board up or tarp over these openings to protect the inside of the home. Installing a temporary security fence can add an extra layer of protection. Remember to keep receipts for emergency board up materials and other security expenses, because your homeowner's insurance may reimburse you.


Begin Cleanup


In addition to the fire itself, residual smoke and soot from the fire and standing water from the extinguishing efforts can cause further damage. Soot is often corrosive and standing water fosters mold growth, so acting quickly is key. Make sure to use the appropriate cleaning product and technique for the type of soot with which you are dealing. Otherwise, you may end up doing more harm than good. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need professional restoration assistance.


Prevent Future Damage


During the restoration process, you may consider taking measures to prevent future fires. Possible steps include investing in flame-resistant paint and installing a sprinkler system. Test your smoke detectors regularly and make sure you have enough fire extinguishers.


Whether you are dealing with major or minor fire damage, it is important to take steps to prevent further damage from occurring. From board up to cleanup, acting quickly but cautiously is the best way to protect your property.

Your Local Restoration Team is Ready to Help

SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties 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.

We are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. If you have fire damage, or questions about restoration, call us, SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties (540) 513-3111.

When You Are Out of Town, A Small Leak Can Be a Big Problem

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

Green SERVPRO drying equipment is shown We were able to save the 80-year-old white oak floors

This homeowner went out of town for vacation, while they were away the toilet supply line broke. This is a common occurrence and can easily be avoided by turning the main water supply valve off when leaving the home for several days.

SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, & Madison was contacted by a local insurance agent asking if we could save these floors. Prior to contacting our franchise, another competitor had been to the home and had proposed that these floors needed to be removed and could not be saved.

Our crew arrived the same day and we set up the Injectadry system with rescue mats. We also placed a couple fans and a dehumidifier. After 3 days of drying, we removed the moisture from the floors, the floors had no cupping and were left in preloss condition.

The homeowner was extremely pleased to know we were able to save the 80-year-old white oak floors that were just refinished 2 months prior to the loss. This is another example of how SERVPRO training separates us from the competition, we always try to restore before we remove, if possible.

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

A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison County, (540) 513-3111. Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important.

Smoke Damage in Your Home and Professional Restoration

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

An illuminated smoke detector is shown surrounded by smoke SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange & Madison County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a fire.


Getting your home put back together after a fire is no small task. There are so many things to think about during fire cleanup that you might overlook a small chore like cleaning electronics. While it may seem trivial, smoke damage is no joke, and cleanup should always be a team effort.


Team Up to Clean Up Damage

Checking for issues and fixing devices is not easy. Here are three steps that you can do to help start the fire cleanup process:

1. Unplug all electronics. Do not turn on any possibly affected devices.


2. Use a cloth to wipe away soot and assess external damage.


3. Let equipment sit and air out thoroughly.

Why Smoke and Soot Are Serious Problems
Smoke causes electronics to overheat. When devices reach high temperatures, they shut down and may not be salvageable. There are also corrosive chemicals and other elements in smoke that can cause hardwiring to short circuit.
Soot is made up of particles that are left behind once the smoke has dissipated. It blankets components and acts as an insulator. It is also acidic, so it will corrode surfaces. The damage might not be immediate but will happen over time.


Because smoke and soot can cause problems after a fire has been put out, it is important to check all electronics immediately to avoid future mishaps. Even if a device does not have any apparent issues, there could still be underlying smoke damage.


Once you’ve done your part, call a professional fire damage restoration company. Their team of certified technicians will examine all of your devices for possible problems. They will get your electronics back to working condition and returned to you as soon as possible.
Fire cleanup comes with a long list of to-dos. Getting your devices checked and cleaned promptly will make getting life back to normal, a little easier.


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 Louisa, Orange & Madison County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event.

If you have fire damage call SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange & Madison County (540) 513-3111.

Basement Flooding and Concerned Homeowners

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Green restoration equipment is shown in a flooded basement If you have water damage in your basement, call the experts at SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison County, (540) 513-3111.

Basement water damage is a big concern for many homeowners. What can you do to avoid this expensive problem?

Here are a few tips:

Keep your gutters clean and check around your home for pooling water.

Clean your downspouts regularly, and make sure all downspouts drain 5 to 6 feet away from your exterior walls.

Seal any cracks in the walls and floors in your basement to keep it dry.

Invest in a backup drainage system like a battery-powered sump pump.

If you experience heavy rainfalls, avoid using water during storms.

If you have water damage in your basement or anywhere in your home call SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison County, (540) 513-3111, so we can get a trained technician to you. A delay of just a few hours might increase the severity of the water damage.

Check to see if your basement is safe to enter. You should never enter a flooded area while the power is still on. Make sure to shut off any power, including electricity and gas, before going into the flooded basement. If the water appears to be over an inch deep, it may be best to wait until the water has been pumped out to enter the basement.

Remember, when you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is critical. SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison County, is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison County, provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of your home. They are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall.

If you have questions about water damage or restoration, call SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison County, (540) 513-3111.

Protecting Your Business from Water Damage

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

Green SERVPRO equipment is shown ready to repair water damage SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison County is ready to help you with water damage. We have the right equipment for your restoration.

Water Damage in Lousia, Orange and Madison County can be Expensive


Water damage can be a costly mess for your business. Generally, water damage is caused by three things: plumbing, appliances or roofing issues.

In the winter, pipes can freeze, burst and damage the building and the occupants' personal property. A small break in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day. Plumbing is susceptible to clogs and stoppages, which can lead to overflowing in toilets, and sinks.

Damaged roofing materials and ice dams can allow water to enter through the roof causing significant damage. Exposure to wind, snow, ice, and rain prevent water from properly flowing or draining off a roof.

There are some preventative measures you can consider to protect your business.

Passive leak detection systems:


These commercial leak detection systems are intended to alert you to a possible water leak. Passive systems are usually battery-operated, stand-alone units. They are easy to install and inexpensive. There is a moisture sensor on the bottom of the unit, and it activates the alarm when it detects moisture.


Active leak detection systems:


Commercial leak detection systems generate an alarm, but also can stop the water flow. They have a shutoff valve and a way to determine that there is a leak. Some units use moisture sensors, other systems utilize a flow sensor and a timer. An active leak detection system can operate only for an individual appliance or control the entire commercial site.

If you have water damage in your home or business, don't wait to call SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison County. Well respond quickly with a trained technician. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison 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.


If you have questions about water damage or restoration call SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison County (540) 513-3111.

First Responders Were Called to an Estimated 1,388,500 Fires in the US in 2020

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

Fire and water damage to a ceiling is shown Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Business. SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange & Madison County (540) 513-3111.

Make Sure Your Virginia Business has a Fire Plan

Fires are dangerous and costly, in your home or business. In 2020, local fire departments responded to an estimated 1.4 million fires in the United States. Property damage was estimated at $21.9 billion. This is according to research that was done by the National Fire Protection Association.

It's good to take precautions and have a plan in case of fire. If you don't think it could happen, on average, a fire department responded to a fire somewhere in the United States every 23 seconds in 2020. You probably have a fire plan for your home, but what about your business?

Does your business have the right kind of suppression for the size of the building and the nature of what you may store there? How about alarms and signaling? It might be time to carefully survey your commercial property to make sure you have the right things in place. Finally make sure your employees know the fire plan, and how to get out in case of a fire.

If you do have a fire at your commercial site, you also want to have a strategy for after the fire is out. After the first responders leave and it's safe to return to your business, make sure you know who to call in Louisa, Orange & Madison County. There are a number of reasons to call a professional.

The SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange and Madison County Team

Cleaning up won't be easy and restoration should be done by technicians that have proper training. SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange & Madison County has knowledgeable, trained professionals that can respond quickly to your business. 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. Learn more about restoration and fire damage

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We can get to you quickly because we are locally owned and operated.

SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange & Madison County technicians meet the high standards set by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). 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 you have questions about fire damage or restoration, give us a call today (540) 513-3111.

New Survey Finds Most Americans Prefer to Cook at Home

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

Items found in a kitchen are shown including a pan and utensils Cooking at home can be healthy and a way to save money, but make sure you're also being safe.

In the Kitchen in Lousia, Orange and Madison County

Believe it or not, cooking at home is still the preference of 98% of Americans, according to a new survey. Almost 40% of those that responded said they make meals at home daily. All of this cooking at home means less expensive and in many cases, healthier food. There is a downside to this trend according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Kitchen Safety

Unattended cooking was the leading cause of cooking fires and casualties. Clothing was the item first ignited in less than 1% of these fires, but clothing ignitions led to 8% of the home cooking fire deaths. One part of the NFPA research was surprising, more than one-quarter of the people killed by cooking fires were sleeping at the time.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends you follow these safety tips when cooking:


Stand by your pan:


If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off.


Watch what you are cooking:
Fires start when the heat is too high. If you see any smoke or the grease starts to boil, turn the burner off.


Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove:


Then no one can bump them or pull them over.


Keep a pan lid or baking sheet nearby:


Use it to cover the pan if it catches on fire. This will put out the fire.

If you have fire damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, Madison County (540) 513-3111. Our trained technicians are ready to help. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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 Louisa, Orange, Madison 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.

It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, Madison County and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and efficiently. If you would like to learn more about our team.

3 Ways To Avoid Fires When Grilling

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

Barbecue grill with fire on nature, outdoor, close up These measures can help you grill more safely.

Prevent a Grill Fire at Your Home

Gas, hardwood, and other types of grills generate a lot of heat and often rely on open flame. It is possible to grill safely if you take a few simple fire safety precautions. Here are three ways to prevent a grill fire at your home in Locust Hill, VA.

1. Grill In a Safe Place

One of the best ways to avoid starting a barbeque fire is to move a safe distance away from structures and flammable items. Never operate a grill on a patio or porch that has a roof. You should also never start kindling a cooking fire inside. Always allow a grill to cool completely prior to storage.

2. Clean and Maintain Your Grill

A grill fire is more likely to break out on a grill covered with grease and flammable food residue. Maintain a fire for at least ten to fifteen minutes after cooking to burn off residue and scrape the grates with a wire brush. Give the entire grill a deep cleaning at least once or twice per season. When the grill is cool, remove the grates and drip pan and clean them with water and a suitable soap. Wipe down the interior and exterior.

3. Factor Fire Safety Into Food Preparation

Trim excess fat from meat prior to grilling. This can reduce the amount of grease that builds up on the grates or in the drip pan and lower the risk of a barbeque fire. You should also use igniting agents responsibly and store containers at a safe distance from an open flame. Keep other flammable items such as napkins and towels at a safe distance.

These measures can help you grill more safely. If a grill fire does start and cause damage to the exterior of your home, schedule an appointment with a fire and smoke damage mitigation and restoration company in Locust Hill, VA.

How To Flush a Water Heater

11/25/2021 (Permalink)

Hand attaches hose to a home water heater to perform maintenance A water heater is an essential element of any home.

What Is the Best Way to Flush a Water Heater?

A water heater, sitting in a dark closet or basement, is easy to forget. If you want to ensure the longevity of your hot water tank, then you may want to follow the steps below to flush the system, clearing out harmful sediment and debris.

1. Turn Off and Prep the Tank

To perform a water heater flush, you may want to have a garden hose and screwdriver handy. Additionally, you will need to prep the tank by first turning off the power and/or gas. Then, attach one end of the garden hose to the tank, and place the other end in a drainage area that can tolerate the hot water.

2. Flush the Tank

To empty the water heater, open the drain valve on the tank and make sure the water is escaping through the hose to the drainage area. After a few minutes, turn the hot water on from the nearest faucet. A couple of minutes after this, turn off the water supply. Once the water stops exiting the garden hose, turn on the water supply for only a couple of minutes to flush out the system again.

3. Refill the Tank

When all debris from the tank has drained, close the drain valve and turn on the water supply. Once the water pressure returns to the open faucet, you can be confident that the tank is filled. Be aware that the water from the tap will be inconsistent at first as air is flushed from the lines.

4. Turn On the Tank

Turn the power/gas back on only when the tank is full to protect the integrity of the system. Once the heat is on and the water is flowing strong, you can turn off the running faucet. If you are experiencing problems with the water pressure or the heating element of the tank, you may want to call a professional in Rhoadsville, VA, to examine any possible causes.

A water heater is an essential element of any home, and flushing the system ensures its continued use. Following the steps above, you can perform this task yourself and maintain your tank for years to come.

Maintaining Building Exteriors To Reduce Storm Damage

11/20/2021 (Permalink)

Building Inspector completing an inspection form on clipboard Perform a building inspection on a regular basis.

Keeping Building Exteriors in Good Condition to Reduce Storm Damage

Rain, wind, hail – if you have a business in Burr Hill, VA, it can be severely damaged by strong storms. Performing exterior maintenance on your building can help reduce storm damage. It is important to keep your building maintained in order to minimize the time and money spent on repairs after a severe storm.

Early Indications of Wear

Many problems with building exteriors can be identified while in the early stages and can be repaired before becoming a costly burden, especially after a storm. For example, rust stains may indicate a leak in the gutters or windows. The easiest places to start a building inspection are the areas that are the most vulnerable:

  • Windows – Check the caulking around the exterior for cracks or gaps.
  • Doors – Check that the doors close tightly and there are no gaps.
  • Walls and siding – Check for hairline cracks in siding or even slight gaps in brick-and-mortar exteriors.
  • Gutters – Poorly-fitting or blocked gutters can cause water to pool and drain down the side of your building, causing damage to the exterior.

Without proper exterior maintenance, problems with any of the above can be exacerbated during a strong storm and damage to the interior of the building, as well as the exterior, may result.

Prevention Is Key

The easiest way to save time and money is to keep your building maintained and perform a building inspection on a regular basis. A few simple things to do include the following:

  • Re-caulk windows to keep them water- and wind-proof.
  • Install weather-stripping around windows and doors to help plug gaps.
  • Thoroughly clean all gutters and ensure that they are free from cracks or holes.

Making large repairs to a building exterior after a storm is often much more difficult than doing preventive maintenance and making small repairs as the need arises.

What To Do

If you need to repair your building after a severe storm, be sure to call a professional crew in Burr Hill, VA. While routine exterior maintenance can help reduce costs, if there is a need for a major repair, you will need an experienced team to get you back in business.

Proper Sprinkler Maintenance Can Help Quench a Fire

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

red head of a fire sprinkler Having a fire sprinkler system in a commercial building can help reduce the damage done by a fire.

Sprinkler Maintenance

If your commercial building has a fire sprinkler system in place, you expect this safety device to work if a fire breaks out in Louisa, VA. However, neglected sprinklers may not be able to work when they're needed. Consider these tips to ensure your building is as protected as can be.

• Have an inspection. Firefighters and commercial fire mitigation teams may do regular inspections on a fire sprinkler system to ensure everything is in working order. This inspection could look for damages to sprinkler heads, positions of valves and other important factors.

• Meet safety standards. The National Fire Protection Agency has set safety standards for this fire suppression tool. You should learn about the standards and make sure your system is up to code. If it isn't, you may not have the water power needed to put out a fire in a building of your size.

• Do regular maintenance. Doing a regular fire sprinkler cleanup can help ensure the system will work when you need it to. Dust and grime can build up on the sprinkler, which may block outgoing water. You can have the system cleaned and repaired to make sure it is at its best.

• Communicate with employees. Do you expect valves to remain open? Do you want sprinkler heads to be left untouched? No matter how you want the sprinkler system treated, you need to be sure to communicate this with your employees or tenants. Put up signs to make your wishes clear.

• Keep detailed records. You should keep records of everything done to your sprinklers. Whether there was an inspection, repair, or fire sprinkler cleanup, you should document it. This can help you prove you're keeping your system up to code, but it can also help you remember when you need another cleaning.

Having a fire sprinkler system in a commercial building can help reduce the damage done by a fire. If you want this system to work properly, you need to make sure it is maintained.

4 Tips to Help You Stop Mold From Growing in Your Bathroom

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth on bathroom tiles Bathrooms are an ideal environment for mold development to begin.

Tips To Stop Mold from Growing In Your Bathroom

Bathrooms are the perfect place for mold growth to start. The damp environment invites spores to make a home in your Unionville, VA, house. Because this room is notorious for having extra moisture, it can be hard to stop mold from appearing time after time. A residential mold cleanup crew may be able to help you stop this cycle. These experts can help you address water damage, cleanup mold and prevent new growth. Consider these tips as you try to put an end to bathroom mold.

1. Use Ventilation. Steam can create a great environment for fungus just as well as water damage can. If you want to make sure excess moisture doesn't build up in your bathroom, you need to find a way to help it escape. Fans and ventilation systems are a great tool to use in this space. Be sure to have the fan on when you use the tub or shower.

2. Dry the Shower. After you're done in the shower, water tends to cling to walls, floors and curtains. This clinging water can encourage mold growth. If you are able to, you should get the water out of your tub or shower to reduce the moisture buildup. You can use towels or a special shower squeegee to dry off your shower.

3. Reseal Fixtures. Faucets can become uncaulked after years of use. When this happens, you may notice leaking water. Water can also get trapped in these small crevices. You can reseal the fixtures in your bathroom every year to ensure they don't provide a place for mold to grow.

4. Repair Grout Lines. Cracked grout lines can also trap water and encourage mold growth. Most grout has a waterproof sealer, but this can wear out over the course of time. You should repair and reseal grout lines to keep your bathroom in top shape.

Your bathroom is susceptible to water damage and fungus growth. You can follow these tips to kick your mold prevention into top gear.

Protecting Your Pets From Residential Fires

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Pomeranian dressed as fire fighter Protecting your pets by taking preventative measures.

Keeping Your Pets Safe in the Event of a House Fire

While the idea of a fire erupting in your Locust Hill, VA, home is never easy to consider, the potential of your beloved pets getting hurt during any fire emergency is that much worse. Therefore, it’s important to not only create a pet preparation plan in the event of a house fire but to take precautions with pet safety before a situation ever occurs. Here are some important ways to protect your pets before and after a dangerous situation occurs.

Prevent a mishap by always extinguishing open flames and keeping them at high levels out of your animal’s reach. Any moving flames seen from candles, BBQs, fireplaces and more can easily draw your pet’s attention. Therefore, it’s vital that you always put out any flames before leaving a room and keep them away from reach, either placed up high or properly covered and untouchable.

Address any problem areas by doing a regular inspection around the home. Check for any loose wiring, reachable appliances or unstable devices that can be knocked over, as they can all turn into possible fire hazards.

If a fire emergency does break out, be sure your pets have their identification in a safe place. Keep any ownership and vaccination records in a fireproof box, and leave your pet’s tagged collars on them at all times to ensure firefighters or other rescuers can identify who your pets belong to and where to secure them.

Plan an escape route with your pet. Practicing fire drills and showing your pets where their escape routes are can give them a helpful head start should a fire erupt. Leave leashes and carriers easy to reach and keep your animals near an entrance while you’re away so they can be quickly located by professionals.

Protecting your pets by taking preventative measures in your Locust Hill, VA, home is crucial for pet safety and your peace of mind. After all, if a fire emergency occurs, knowing you’re prepared ahead of time is crucial to staying calm and getting everyone out in a timely manner.

Fire Sprinklers and Accidental Discharge: What to Do If the Fire Sprinklers Go off Accidentally?

9/26/2021 (Permalink)

Fire alarm and smoke. In case of accidental discharge, it is important to keep the above steps in mind to speed up the recovery process and get back to normal operations.

Fire sprinklers are an excellent safety measure that is most likely required by law in Rhoadsville, VA, but, while they are a lovely preventative and protective asset, in the case of accidental discharge, they can cause flooding and significant water damage. For most business owners who experience this unintentional disaster, they will typically want to know the process they should adhere to after.

1. Call Your Insurance Company

The first step is to call your insurance company. Most insurance companies will cover damage caused by a faulty or defective sprinkler system, but they will want to ensure that the responsibility lies with the manufacturer and not with the business owner. As the owner, insurers expect you to maintain your equipment, and if there is any sign of persistent issues resulting in the malfunction of the sprinkler system, most insurers will place the financial burden on the property owner.

2. Document the Incident and Any Damage

After you’ve called your insurance company, it is beneficial to document both the incident and the flooding or damage caused by the faulty fire sprinklers. You can document the incident by talking with any witnesses and finding out what occurred before the malfunction. Additionally, you may want to take photos of the area and any damaged merchandise to show as evidence and proof of loss.

3. Cleanup

Once you and your insurance company have determined responsibility, you can begin the cleanup process. Several companies specialize in water damage and can help you in your restoration efforts. The important thing, however, is to get your business back on track as fast as possible to minimize any significant interruption costs.

Fire sprinklers are essential and often required elements of a business, but, while they do require routine maintenance, they can malfunction, causing flooding and potential business interruption. In case of accidental discharge, it is important to keep the above steps in mind to speed up the recovery process and get back to day-to-day operation.

Make a Flood Damage Claim in 3 Steps

9/19/2021 (Permalink)

Standing water in room. These are the three major steps to file a flood claim.

A flood can cause serious damage to your home. You should file a claim for flood damage as soon as possible. Check your policy to determine how much coverage you have for flooding and then follow these three steps to file a flood claim.

1. Document Damage

The first step toward filing an insurance claim is to document the extent of the damage. Capture photographic or video proof of standing water as well as damaged building materials and contents. While you should take timely steps to mitigate primary damage and limit the extent of secondary damage, you must capture the condition of the affected areas of your home beforehand. Also gather and prepare to provide information such as dates of purchase, item values, and any receipts for major possessions that you can find. You may dispose of damaged items after thoroughly documenting the damage.

2. Notify Your Insurer and Talk to an Adjuster

Next, notify your insurer of the property damage and file a flood claim. It is a good idea to file this claim as soon as possible, as it may take some time for your insurer to get around to processing your claim if the flood that has affected your home is widespread. An adjuster will contact you to discuss your coverage and help you prepare a sworn statement regarding the number of damages supported by documentation.

3. File Proof of Loss Within 60 Days

Be sure to file proof of loss documentation with an insurance company within two months of a flood. Payouts can only be processed once Proof of Loss is on file.

These are the three major steps to file a flood claim. You should maintain a reliable method of contact such as a cell phone number. As soon as you document the damage, you can contact a residential damage restoration service in Burr Hill, VA.

The Advantages of Hiring a Professional Mold Inspector

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth on wall in bathroom. If it’s not quickly discovered, mold can significantly damage your home’s infrastructure.

If your home sustains water damage from a flood or burst pipe, it is also vulnerable to mold damage. Extensive mold growth can be a difficult problem for any homeowner in Louisa, VA, to battle, especially since mold is adept at finding hidden moisture spots. For peace of mind, you may wish to consult a professional mold inspector who can thoroughly examine your home and identify areas requiring mold cleaning.

Extensive Knowledge

A certified mold expert will have broad knowledge about mold growth and the ensuing damage it can cause. In addition, the certification process requires technicians to complete extensive training and hands-on experience. This proficiency will enable your inspector to complete numerous tasks:
• Recognize signs of moisture
• Identify subtle indications of mold damage
• Locate potential hiding spots

Access to Useful Tools

To complete a thorough mold cleaning, you will need to address every moldy spot. While some mold may be readily visible, it may be difficult to locate hidden sources, especially under flooring and behind drywall. To aid their work, professional inspectors have several useful tools at their disposal:
• Moisture meters to evaluate moisture levels in walls, carpets, and other materials
• Borescopes to visually examine the area behind walls and other surfaces
• Hygrometers to measure humidity levels inside your home

Each of these instruments enables the expert to search for hidden mold in a minimally invasive manner that most homeowners cannot easily accomplish themselves.

A Beneficial Service

If it’s not quickly discovered, mold can significantly damage your home’s infrastructure. Hiring a professional mold inspector can help you efficiently identify mold sources behind drywall, in crawl spaces, under flooring, and in other locations not readily visible. Quick identification is important because it enables you to jumpstart the mold cleaning process and hopefully address the situation before it becomes a serious problem. If the inspector does, however, discover extensive contamination, you may want to hire a professional mold remediation team to help you tackle the problem and reduce the risk of a future recurrence.

Leaky Roof Cleanup

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Rainstorm falling on a roof A roof leak can cause extensive damage, from mold growth to harm in the interior ceiling. Call SERVPRO for help!

Cleaning A Leaky Roof

Many people have dealt with leaky roofs at one point or another. While it may not always sound like a big deal, a roof leak can cause extensive damage, from mold growth to harm in the interior ceiling. You don’t want to leave a leaky roof unattended. The roof is an essential component to the building. When it comes to flood cleanup for the roof, here is what a company may do for your Louisa, VA, building.

1. Tear Out

After a roof leak, the first step is to call a flood restoration company. They can do an assessment on the damage done to your roof. For instance, if there is any mold growth, they will be able to identify it and help clear it out. In some cases, the damage to the shingles or roof may be too widespread, and some materials may have to be torn out before you can focus on the restoration.

2. Dry Out

The company will usually dry out the salvaged materials in the second step. Generally, the goal is to save as much as can be saved. A damaged roof often has some parts that can be saved and dried out whereas others may have to be torn up. Once everything is dried, it can go through the disinfecting process. This will make sure there are no mold spores left.

3. Restore

The restoration involves returning your roof to like-new condition. This can mean replacing any missing shingles, redoing the installation or fixing any number of damages that were done to the roof.

When you have a roof leak, it’s important that you deal with it right away. Water damage has a way of getting worse over time. The longer you leave it, the more you are likely to have mold growth and extensive damage that cannot be salvaged. When it comes to restoration, having as much of the original roof as possible helps.

3 Reasons Mold Grows on Bread

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

mold on bread loaf if you suspect the presence of mold in your home where it cannot be seen, SERVPRO can help you.

Mold Grows On Bread for Three Reasons

You may have dealt with bread mold in the past and wondered where it came from when you make such an effort to keep your Burr Hill, VA, home clean. However, when mold grows on bread you have stored in a breadbox or on a counter, it has little to do with cleanliness. There are several reasons you might encounter this mold, and being aware of them may help you prevent it from spreading to other foods or, even more troublesome, other areas of your home.

1. Mold Can Grow Without Sunlight

Unlike other plants, all mold species are fungi, which means they do not get their energy from sunlight. Instead, fungus growth occurs when mold spores in the air find a food source they can latch onto, such as your bread. The warm, moist conditions inside a plastic bread bag can also cause mold to grow, which is why bread can go moldy even when it is properly stored.

2. It Can Grow in Cool Environments

You might believe you can prevent bread mold by storing it in the fridge. However, mold does not always need warm conditions to thrive. While it does tend to grow more quickly in warm areas, species that grow on food can also form within your fridge. This is why you might sometimes find mold on old leftovers and fridge mold inside your fruit or vegetable keeper.

3. Mold Spreads Quickly

Mold spores, which are invisible to the naked eye, can spread quickly once they find a food source. Since bread is moist and yeasty, it can be a perfect environment for mold to multiply. If you suspect mold spores might have originated from another area of your home, a water damage cleanup and mold remediation company can inspect your home to find and eradicate the source.

Finding bread mold in your Burr Hill, VA, home can be a common occurrence and little cause for alarm. However, if you suspect the presence of mold in your home where it cannot be seen, calling for mold remediation can be the first step in having it treated.

3 Ways Secondary Damage Can Affect Your Home After a Flood

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Machines drying water damage in a laundry room We have expert equipment to clean up water and flood damages in homes.

3 Ways Secondary Flood Damage Can Affect Your Home

The aftereffects of a flood at your Rhoadsville, VA, home can be devastating. Estimating repair costs, sorting through damaged items and gathering data for a flood insurance claim are just a few things you might be dealing with. However, even as you try to handle the aftermath, water damage could be creating issues that you may not notice until days later. From black mold to warping and discoloration of your home's surfaces, secondary damage can exacerbate your flooding woes.

1. Mold growth

After a flood, the high humidity in the area can cause rapid mold growth on walls and other surfaces. Black mold is especially common after flooding, and if you encounter this issue, it is wise to call in a storm cleanup and restoration company to remove it. This can prevent the spores from spreading to other areas, where it may take hold out of sight.

2. Warping

Once flood waters recede, items with porous surfaces, such as wood, can retain moisture and warp. This damage may not occur right away, but over time, you may notice the effects in hardwood floors and wooden furniture. Your countertops may also suffer discoloration if they were constructed with a porous material, such as polished concrete.

3. Musty or Wet Odors

Secondary damage, such as unpleasant odors left behind from dirty water, may not be noticeable until days or weeks after a flood. These odors can linger in furniture, carpeting or even in your home's interior walls, where insulation may be wet and rotting. Restoration technicians have specialized equipment that can help them locate the source of these wet or musty odors and eliminate them.

The immediate effects of a flood in your Rhoadsville, VA, home can be difficult to deal with. However, problems that may crop up days or weeks afterward, such as black mold and wood rot, can be equally hard to handle, and being aware of them may help you be more vigilant about their presence once flood waters recede.

Making a Flood Damage Claim

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

Air movers placed in the hallway of a home, flooring removed Storm restoration services in a Louisa, VA home

How to File a Flood Damage Claim

In the event that you have to make a flood claim in Louisa, VA, following a storm, knowing how the process works will make a challenging situation a bit easier to endure. It is in your best interest to move quickly to contact your insurance adjuster, particularly when damage is widespread throughout your locality.

Begin Remediation Immediately

After you have notified your insurance company that your home has sustained flood damage, get to work right away on your own or by engaging the services of professionals to address it. Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours after inundation, so your adjuster will understand the need to move quickly.

• Take lots of digital photos and videos to document the damage to your home and property.
• Remove but do not yet discard, materials that cannot be salvaged.
• Remove excess water by pumping, mopping and blotting to prevent further harm to your home.
• Get the air circulating with fans and air conditioners, and as a last step, dehumidifiers.
• Be sure to inspect, and work to dry, hidden areas where mold can grow.
• Begin the cleaning process for belongings that can be salvaged.
• Compile a list of losses and include any receipts you have retained. Your credit card history can be useful for the task of filing out an accurate flood claim.
• Keep receipts for any purchases of goods or services related to the flood.
• Sign the proof of loss statement that your adjuster produces. Additions can be made if necessary for the insurance claim.

It is important to understand that both the restoration of your home and the settlement of your insurance claim will be processes that require time, effort and patience.

Unless you live in an area prone to flooding, it is likely that a flood claim will be a once-in-a-lifetime event. Accurate documentation is the key to fair compensation.

5 Tips To Prevent Kitchen Fires

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

A man cooking and stove is setting on fire Be attentive to your cooking and do not leave it unattended, even for a few minutes.

5 Kitchen Fire Prevention Tips

In 2016, 50% of house fires in the United States were caused by cooking. As a homeowner in Unionville, VA follow these five helpful tips to reduce the chance of fire damage in your kitchen:

1. Pay Attention

Be attentive to your cooking and do not leave it unattended, even for a few minutes. If you must leave the house, turn off the oven first. Regularly check on the food, especially if you are frying, broiling or grilling. If you are not in the kitchen, set a timer so you know when the food is done. Double check that appliances are turned off before heading to bed.

2. Reduce Fire Hazards

Move anything that is flammable away from heat sources in the kitchen, especially those that generate open flames. This includes dish towels, pot holders, grocery bags and long sleeves or hair when cooking.

3. Clean Surfaces

Over time, grease and oil residue build up. Regular cleaning is one of the best tips to prevent a grease fire. If a grease fire occurs, never put water on it. Rather, cut off the oxygen to the flames by covering it with a pot or pan.

4. Take Precautions

The kitchen is no place for small children while you are cooking. Teach your kids to stay at least three feet away from the oven for safety.

5. Be Prepared

Protect your home by installing a working smoke detector in or near your kitchen, and on all levels of your home. Check the batteries and test the device on a regular basis. Keep a fire extinguisher within reach to combat small fires in early stages.

Follow the above tips to decrease the risk of fire in your home. Sometimes even taking precautions cannot prevent a fire in Unionville, VA. If this happens, immediately get your family to safety and call the fire department. After the blaze it out, contact a fire restoration specialist and your homeowner’s insurance agent to learn about your next steps to restore your fire damaged home.

The Four Usual Suspects of Tile Discoloration

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

ceiling damaged by water and mold growth Ceiling damaged by mold growth.

The Four Most Common Causes of Tile Discoloration

When it came to (literally) building your business in Rhoadsville, VA, you opted for the convenience, ease, and longevity of ceiling tiles. Now you've noticed some tile discoloration and you're unsure if it's due to natural aging, issues caused by surrounding lighting, proximity to exhaust fans, or tile mold. Let's take a closer look at these four common issues and how to identify them.

1. Aging

Nothing lasts forever, not even ceiling tiles. If the tiles were installed before your business began operation out of your building, it's difficult to ascertain their exact age. For older buildings from a pre-no-smoking era, cigarette smoke may have quickened the aging process as well.

2. Lighting

Lights are lights, right? Wrong. Ultraviolet lights actually cause discoloration. This type of lighting is typically used in healthcare facilities like hospitals and labs in order to sterilize equipment. UV lights affect and degrade the chemical bonds in ceiling tiles, which leads to bleaching and gradual fading.

3. Fans

Are the tiles near your exhaust fans showing more advanced signs of discoloration than other tiles? This may be caused by a lack of insulation in the duct, allowing the moisture the fan is redirecting to slowly seep into the surrounding tiles.

4. Tile Mold

One of the most prevalent suspects, mold, is caused by water damage through exposure to moisture due to plumbing-, HVAC system-, or roof-related issues. If the source of the problem is not found and rectified, your tiles will take on a telltale brownish hue that will make them appear darker than unaffected tiles.

Ceiling tiles may require less upkeep, but the discoloration is a common issue. While simple aging, light sources, and placement of fans can be relatively easy problems to address, tile mold should be confirmed and remediated by a professional mold restoration company. After all, keeping your business – and more importantly, your employees – thriving and safe is their business.

Restoring Your Home After a Fire

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

fire damaged home with melted siding and broken glassfire damaged home with melted siding and broken glass Fire damage in a Louisa, VA home.

Residential Fire Restoration

Thanks to your efforts and those of responding firefighters, your home survived a blaze that otherwise could have destroyed it. However, that doesn’t exactly mean the job is done. Even a small fire can lead to significant home damage in Louisa, VA, such as:

  • Soot damage to walls, floors and furniture
  • Embedded smoke smell
  • Damage to important structural pieces

Your home still has a long way to go toward getting back to normal, but by working with a professional fire and smoke cleaning crew, you can expedite the process and get things done right. Of course, there are a few things you can do on your own as well.

Air Out the Area

Once you’ve received the okay to go back into your house, consider airing out the affected space. This means opening up windows and doors, and maybe even installing some high-powered fans or box fans in the windows. This can help carry some of the soot and smoke outdoors, mitigating some smoke damage and making the cleanup job a little easier.

Work With Professionals

Soot damage might seem simple to clean up, but in reality, it requires special tools to get the job done right. Porous surfaces like those on some countertops and fabrics such as carpets, rugs and couches can thoroughly absorb soot, making them nearly impossible to clean with regular means. Fortunately, the pros have the tools and know-how to rescue a majority of your belongings.

The Smell

Finally, note that a simple cleaning or airing-out isn’t likely to completely get rid of the smoke smell right away. Smoke, like soot, is absorbed into fabrics and other porous materials, giving it a means to linger longer. Likely your clean-up crew will use a special machine over a series of weeks to get rid of the smell.

By working with your clean-up crew and lending a hand where you can, you can get rid of smoke damage. Work to get your home back to its old self as quickly as possible in the aftermath of a fire.

How To Tackle Black Shower Mold

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth on ceiling Ceiling moisture produces mold growth

Water that bombards your shower every day can lead to mold growth. Discovering shower mold at your home in Locust Hill, VA, can be concerning, and you may worry about how to manage it.

How Causes Mold to Grow In a Shower?

Several factors contribute to black mold in your shower. Mold spores thrive under conditions in your bathroom, including:

  • Excessive moisture
  • Warm temperature
  • Insufficient venitaltion
  • Low lighting

Mold can quickly overtake non-porous surfaces, including tile and grout, leaving behind stains that can be difficult to remove.

What Can You Do To Prevent a Moldy Shower?
Preventing mold is challenging, but you can clean it away using a solution of equal parts bleach and water and a scrub brush. Before you commit to routine, rigorous shower cleaning sessions, you can commit to a plan to minimize mold growth.
Controlling shower mold starts with keeping all areas of your shower as dry as possible. Use an absorbent towel to wipe up excess water that lands on the tiles, walls, grout and porcelain surfaces of your shower. A squeegee can help you access inner and upper walls.
After taking a shower, your bathroom will fill with steam quickly, and you should open a window or use an exhaust fan to help it escape. Remember to draw your bathroom curtains to let in sunlight and prevent darkness that encourages mold growth. Be sure to keep your shower curtain open also; this will allow it to dry thoroughly.
In between each use, spray the surfaces of your shower with white vinegar, which has anti-fungal properties that inhibit mold growth. Scenting the vinegar with a drop or two of your favorite essential oil will also infuse your entire bathroom with a pleasant aroma.

When Do You Need Help?
Shower mold can be unpleasant, but it is usually manageable. If you worry about black mold in any part of your home in Locust Hill, VA, a mold remediation service is your best resource for safely addressing it and restoring sanitary conditions.

How To Prepare Your Building For a Storm

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

storm shutters in a building Storm shutters can protect your buildings window against high winds.

Preparation Tips Before a Storm

Many are aptly prepared for storm damage, such as flood water, in their homes, but it's equally important to prepare your commercial building if you know a storm is approaching in Rhoadsville, VA. Whether you are an employee or own the building, you should help prepare your commercial building for a storm. There are many preparation tips you can keep in mind before a storm.

Assess Your Property Beforehand
To begin your storm preparation plan, it's important to assess your commercial building. You should take note of the strengths and weaknesses of where your building is located and how a storm would affect your property. Reinforce anything that would be damaged by a storm or flood water. A few ideas for your inspection include:

  • Ensuring shutters are on windows in case of high wind
  • Anchoring any large furniture to its place
  • Removing any large branches or trees that are close to your building and could fall on it during a storm
  • Making sure you've had a recent roof inspection to ensure it is strong enough to withstand a storm

Although an assessment may not seem necessary, it is important to do before a storm comes. It's always better to be safe than be sorry.

Put Documents in a Safe Place
No matter what type of business you have, there are almost certainly important documents that need to be kept safe and dry. If you have a flooded building, documents can quickly be ruined beyond repair. Documents to preserve include legal documents, financial documents such as account statements and tax information.
Move all documents to a safe and dry space, such as an upper-level floor in a filing cabinet or back up digital information on a hard drive. Any backed-up data should be kept off-site to ensure it is kept safe.
Preparing your building for storm or water damage can prevent costly repairs from wind or flood water. If your building does experience storm damage, be sure to call in a storm damage company to help you with the restoration process.

How Can Electronics Be Damaged by Fire?

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

danger, office in a fire , a burning computer An electrical fire can wreak havoc on your Burr Hill, VA, commercial building and its contents.

Post - Fire Causes Of Electronics Damage

An electrical fire can wreak havoc on your Burr Hill, VA, commercial building and its contents. This damage can include electronics that didn't ignite the fire. You may see this burnt equipment and think it's unsalvageable. However, there's a chance you or a professional can save some of it. The first step is knowing the various post-fire causes of electronics damage.

1. Heat
A fire can result in burnt or even melted electronics, media and memory. This damage can make it virtually impossible to restore any data. If it's essential data, you may want to consult with a data restoration expert to see if it's possible to retrieve it.

2. Smoke and Soot
Removable memory, such as computer hard drives and SD cards, is typically encased in semi-sealed assemblies. Although mostly safe, they're still somewhat vulnerable to soot and smoke damage after an electrical fire. After all, smoke can drift into the tiniest of crevices, causing various problems. Many people don't realize that smoke is magnetically charged, which can cause electronics to short-circuit. Smoke can also leave a black film on the interior of electronics, leaving them sensitive to overheating. Soot is acidic and can deteriorate electronics, shortening their lifespan. If a computer or other device is damaged, you can probably remove the memory. Then, move it to a safe location. You may be able to retrieve the data yourself.

3. Water
After a fire, at least some of your electronics will probably receive water damage resulting from sprinkler systems and firefighters extinguishing the flames.
After an electrical fire, restoration must begin as soon as possible. This process includes electronics and computer cleanup. Fire damage will progressively and quickly get worse the longer it lingers. The longer it's left, the less chance of saving what could be salvageable early on.

Proactive Cleaning with SERVPRO

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

illustration of covid-19 Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange & Madison Counties is "Here to Help" during all times of need. 
When we were faced with unprecedented times caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, we want to remind 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 us today!

Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F
%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Immediate Steps To Take After a Fire

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Roof of a house burned Fire damage in a Unionville, VA home.

Fire Restoration Process

A fire in your home in Unionville, VA, can leave behind a lot of devastation, and this experience can be overwhelming. Knowing the first few steps that you need to take can help to focus your attention and get the fire restoration process started as soon as possible so that everything can go back to normal again.

Call Cleanup Experts
Even a moderate fire is going to cause a lot of damage, and you will need to know what was destroyed not only by the fire but also by the water used to put it out. This information, along with the estimated cost of fixing your home, will be useful when you file your fire insurance claim. Contact fire damage mitigation experts to handle the problem. They will walk you through every step of the process:

  • Assessment
  • Water removal
  • Material tear-out
  • Drying
  • Smoke cleaning
  • Rebuilding

Having a team that handles everything from the initial consultation to the final touches of fire restoration can help the cleanup go more smoothly.

Avoid the Damage
When your home is damaged, it's tempting to take matters into your own hands and start cleaning immediately. This is not a good idea when it comes to the cleanup after a fire, though. You don't know which parts of the structure are secure enough to be safe, or you may end up doing more damage to your home. It's best to wait for the experts to arrive.

Secure Your Home
The restoration process may take a while, particularly if there is a lot of damage. In the meantime, you will need to secure your home by making sure broken windows and any gaping holes left by the flames are boarded up. Your restoration team can advise and assist with this process as well.
Your home will likely need a lot of work after a fire, but the good news is that you don't have to do everything yourself. By enlisting the help of trusted fire restoration experts, you can rest assured that everything will be taken care of properly.

Important Insurance Facts for Landlords and Renters

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

New Multi-Family Housing in Suburban Setting Rental property in Bur Hill, VA.

Important Insurance Facts for Landlords and Renters

If you own a large rental property, you know that a large storm in Burr Hill, VA, has the potential to cause a lot of damage to your property. It could even require your tenants to have to relocate for a period of time. With the right insurance policy, you will be covered for structural damage to your property from such things as high winds, heavy rains and lightning. A storm remediation company in your area can help you recover from a large storm and in some cases help you more efficiently handle insurance claims. For your tenants, renters insurance protects them for losses to their belongings and has provisions for other important situations. Some landlords strongly encourage or require their tenants to purchase this coverage.

Renters Insurance Facts

Many people who rent think they do not own enough stuff to make insurance worthwhile. However, when everything is added up, the value of a person's clothes, furniture and personal items can be significant. In general, renters insurance is fairly inexpensive, plus this insurance coverage includes the following protections:

  • Provides for relocation expenses if necessary
  • Includes liability coverage for damages causes by a tenant
  • Includes different levels of replacement for personal items

The right policy provides peace of mind for the renter and has benefits for the landlord, too. It is an affordable way for renters to avoid a financial loss.

Commercial Property Information
As a landlord, there are many things you can do to protect your property, including getting the right insurance, and seeing that your tenant has renters insurance. Also, make sure to follow all applicable rules and regulations concerning your tenants, such as including the necessary safety devices and alarm systems on your building. Regulation inspections of your property by knowledgeable contractors also help you withstand the effects of a storm. It's important to keep an eye out for items that could cause injury on your property, such as broken railings on stairways.

The Specifics of Commercial Fire Cleanup

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Empty building damaged by fire Commercial fire damage in Rhoadsville, VA.

The Specifics of Commercial Fire Cleanup

If you experience a commercial fire in Rhoadsville, VA, you will need help in the cleanup and restoration process. A professional fire mitigation team is your best choice to guide you through the recovery steps. The process has been honed through years of experience. Technicians have been trained to take care of smoke damage and to operate advanced equipment that helps return the building to the way it was before the fire. The process begins with an inspection and assessment of the property and the damage. This step provides the framework for the rest of the cleanup.

The Early Stages
It is important to secure the building against further damage. The mitigation team will look at safety hazards and the extent of structural damage. Workers could recommend the building be boarded up or have a tarp placed over the roof to keep out the rain. The next steps are as follows:

  • Water removal
  • Drying of surfaces
  • Treatment of smoke damage
  • Treatment of soot damage

Specialized equipment such as dehumidifiers and air dryers are used to eliminate moisture that is often the result of fire fighting efforts. Advanced cleaning techniques are used in this stage of the smoke cleaning process. The final step is the complete restoration of the building. The goal is to restore the property "Like it never even happened."

The Final Stages
A commercial fire causes smoke damage to a variety of materials, including clothes and furniture. These items will be restored if possible or replaced if necessary. Surfaces in the building will need to be cleaned and sanitized according to best industry practices. This includes removing odors with air scrubbers and fogging equipment. Drywall and carpeting may need to be replaced, while walls might need a fresh coat of paint. In major fires, some structural elements may need to be rebuilt. Each fire is different, but a proven process guides the technicians in charge of recovery.

I Just Discovered Standing Water in My Building. Now What?

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Breaker box with the word CUT THE POWER! Turn off the electricity at the fuse box.

Prevention Is Key When It Comes To Black Mold

In only a couple of days, water left to stand in your commercial building can result in major damage. Black mold and structural damage are real possibilities. Once the water is finally discovered, you’ll need to act quickly by:

1. Turning Off Electricity
First and foremost, when safely accessible, turn off the electricity at the fuse box. Appliances, electronics or exposed wires in the affected area will mean there’s probably an electric current traveling through the standing water. If the box isn’t safe to approach, you can call the power company to have them turn it off.

2. Stopping the Water
When it’s safe to enter the flooded area, stop the inflow of water, if possible. This might involve turning off the building’s main water supply or shutting it off at the source.

3. Turning Off HVAC System
No matter how long the water has been in the area, there will be some degree of water damage. If it’s been over 24 hours, it’s possible that black mold has started growing. You’ll want to turn off the HVAC system until the mold clean-up is completed. Mold spores could be in the vents, which means possible cross-contamination to other areas.

4. Removing Water
A wet/dry vacuum is a great way to quickly and safely extract standing water. It’ll also pull small debris from the water.

5. Containing Affected Area
The water-damaged area should be contained from the rest of the building until the mold remediation process is complete. Simply closing all doors to the area and sealing them with painter's tape will work until the professionals arrive. It’s also best to cover all vents to prevent mold spores from getting into the ventilation system.
Prevention is key when it comes to black mold. However, it’s sometimes unavoidable in the wake of a disaster, especially if the water has gone unnoticed for 24 hours or more. Locust Hill, VA, mold cleanup experts can handle these jobs along with any resulting moisture problem.

How To Know When It Is Time for a Plumbing Overhaul

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

collapsed ceiling in a home due to water damage Collapsed ceiling due to water damage in Louisa, VA.

How To Know When It Is Time for a Plumbing Overhaul

Many people ignore the home's plumbing system until it is too late. This often leads to repeated repairs for leaks, pipe breaks and similar issues. The problem with this approach is that some plumbing issues can lead to significant water damage in a home. Supply line damage is one example of a problem that could release hundreds of gallons into a home in Louisa, VA. Though this water is likely to be clean water, it still has the power to inflict damage on flooring, walls, insulation and furniture. In some situations, a complete plumbing system overhaul might be the best solution.

Signs of Big Trouble
An occasional bathroom leak is fairly common and nothing to cause undue alarm. However, if the plumbing system experiences frequent breaks, especially in difficult-to-access locations, a replacement system might be in order. Still, it is important to carefully assess the situation by considering the following factors:

  • The age of the plumbing system
  • The lifespan of piping materials
  • The condition of the joints and fittings
  • The presence of corrosion

Each type of piping material has an expected lifespan. Supply line damage is rarer in PVC, copper and cast iron piping that is less than 50 years old. Brass and galvanized steel piping wear out more quickly.

A Reasonable Solution
While avoiding a supply line leak is important, a major replacement of plumbing is a big job. It can make sense to look for reasonable opportunities to replace plumbing components. For example, remodeling projects are great times to include a plumbing upgrade, especially if walls are being removed.
If major supply line damage does occur, calling in a water damage restoration company is the best way to avoid significant harm to a home. Trained technicians will remove standing water quickly and dry out the home to prevent future damage such as mold growth. Avoiding water damage is a worthy goal as is minimizing the consequences of a water disaster.

Storm Damage and Your Business: How SERVPRO Can Help

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Damage to the roof and ceiling of an office following a violent storm Commercial storm damage in Unionville, VA.

Storm Damage and Your Business

A severe storm can wreak havoc on your Unionville, VA, business and cause many different types of damage. From flooding to wrecked building materials to mold growth due to standing water, you may be looking at a substantial insurance claim. Working with a storm restoration service like SERVPRO may help ease the path to rebuilding your business.

A Fast Response
Having a storm response team on your side that you can reach out to 24/7 may offer you peace of mind when a major storm damages your business. Not only do you have someplace to turn to for assistance but a swift response may also prevent secondary damage, including:

  • Mold growth
  • A weakening of exterior building materials
  • Broken and cracked windows or skylights

A fast response may lower the cost of your insurance claim and the price of some repairs, which may help you increase your overall restoration budget.

Insurance Claim Assistance
Flood damage can cause widespread problems throughout your commercial building and the items it contains, which means filing an insurance claim that can help cover the cost of repairs. Because SERVPRO is a well-known and preferred storm restoration and emergency disaster response service, both you and your agent will take comfort in knowing you are both working with experienced repair technicians.

Local and Corporate Support
Working with an emergency disaster response service that provides both local and corporate support can provide you with all the assistance you need after a storm damages your business. Your local team acts swiftly when you need immediate mitigation and later, when the time comes to file an insurance claim, the company’s corporate contacts may assist you with itemizing the damage so the filing process is simpler.
When a severe storm causes damage to your Unionville, VA, property, it can cause serious upheaval in your life. Having somewhere to turn to for storm restoration can make a significant difference in how quickly repairs and insurance claims take place.

Preventing Water Damage During Construction

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Group of construction engineer team in standard safety uniform work planing in construction site Prevent water damage during construction in Locust Hill, VA.

If you are a contractor, you probably want to avoid water issues, like a broken pipe that requires costly and time-consuming fixes, such as hiring a water pipe repair person. To protect your projects from requiring a water cleanup company, you should take the proper preventative steps. This means being proactive.

Identify Water Sources

Water leaks can sometimes happen when you are testing a building's systems and will require that you fix them with appropriate water pipe repair measures. The most common sources you should watch include:

  • Water distribution fixtures
  • Roof drains
  • Sewer hookups
  • HVAC fluid systems
  • Fire sprinklers

Create a Plan
To avoid performing a water pipe repair, contractors should take the potential water sources and create a plan to mitigate threats. These methods of mitigation should also be included in your project budget since they are necessary precautions.

Use Water Damage Prevention Tools
When building, there are water damage prevention tools that can limit the amount of damage a site sees. It is recommended that contractors use at least two of the readily available tools to reduce water damage.

Conduct a Shutdown Inspection
To ensure that the building is safe, a shutdown inspection should be conducted every time your crew leaves the site in Locust Hill, VA. This inspection should be conducted according to a checklist that incorporates potential threats and your mitigation plan. It should also be conducted if a storm is approaching.
All project staff should conduct their part of the checklist before leaving the site. The responsibility can be handed to one staff member to ensure completion if necessary. However, this may not be feasible on larger projects. It is also a great idea to train new employees on the preventative measures used to reduce water damage and why they are necessary.
By incorporating these strategies, contractors can reduce the amount of damage they experience from flooded worksites. This is because they know where the potential threats are and plan to deal with them using the proper tools. Additionally, contractors should perform a shutdown inspection to ensure a site is waterproofed before leaving it.

3 Ways To Keep Employees Safe During Mold Removal

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Mold Quarantine Whether you are removing black mold or any other kind, personal protection should be a priority

Here Are Three Ways To Do That

If you are a business owner in Rhoadsville, VA, who is dealing with mold growth in your commercial property, there are several steps you need to take. First, call a professional. After speaking with a mold remediation expert, the next thing on your to-do list is to consider how you want to coordinate business functions around mold removal. Think about your employees. You will need to figure out a way to keep them safe while the restoration efforts are underway.


1. Provide Personal Protection Equipment
Whether you are removing black mold or any other kind, personal protection should be a priority. To keep skin and respiratory systems clear of any possible contaminants, make sure you provide everyone in the area with appropriate PPE. At a minimum, offer face masks and gloves and direct everyone to wear protective clothing. No one wants to breathe mold.


2. Follow Mold Removal Guidelines
When it comes to cleanup, follow standard guidelines to prevent making any harmful mistakes. For example, the remediation crew should clean mold with soap and water. They should not use bleach or other chemicals that can cause adverse health reactions in humans. Doing so can put everyone at increased risk. Additionally, never begin cleanup before everyone is wearing PPE.


3. Keep Unnecessary Workers Away
While it may seem extreme to send employees home or close shop for the day simply because of mold growth, it may be necessary to at least temporarily relocate anyone who is not part of the cleanup. Having unnecessary people in the area can increase the number of people whose safety you need to worry about. Why put yourself in a position to face a liability?
No matter what kind of business you run out of your commercial property, any building can be susceptible to unwanted mold growth. To help you prepare for this kind of situation, have a plan in place for coordinating the essentials like employee safety. This can help make mold removal much easier if and when you need these services.

Understanding the Different Levels of Sewage Damage

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Dishwasher causes water damage Category 2 water damage comes from a dirty water source

As a homeowner, it’s important to be prepared for various types of damage in your home, including sewer backup. Whether you’re dealing with a flooded toilet or a faulty dishwasher, you should recognize that you’re in the middle of an emergency situation. If you ever have to deal with sewage in your residence in Burr Hill, VA, you need to reach out to professional experts in sewer cleanup to address this issue quickly and thoroughly. They will know the proper approach based on the type of contaminated water or sewage damage level found.

Exploring Different Levels of Water Contamination

Sewage damage is categorized based on three different levels or types of contaminated water:

  • Clean Water (Category 1): This describes damage from a clean source such as a leaky faucet or broken pipe.
  • Gray Water (Category 2): This describes contaminated water that comes from overflow from a house appliance or a toilet containing some urine. Gray water may contain microbes.
  • Black Water (Category 3): Severely contaminated water that contains sewage, harsh chemicals and microbes such as sewer backup or flooding is referred to as black water.


When clean and gray water are left untreated, they may degrade into gray and black water, respectively. Items that experience damage from Category 3 or black water usually cannot be salvaged. It is important to address any contaminated water damage with a comprehensive sewer cleanup approach that can only be offered by professionals.


Understanding the Professional Difference
Sewage backup in your house is a serious matter. Professional restoration specialists have the equipment and know-how to quickly and fully address any damage. The aim of a full restoration process is to bring your residence back to pre-damage conditions as soon as possible.
It is not recommended that you attempt to clean sewage backup yourself. Trust your home to sewer cleanup experts who are focused on fully addressing the problem, including damage that may be hidden from view.

How To Know Whether Your Sprinklers Are Ready for a Fire

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Automatic ceiling Fire Sprinkler at the Office You must perform fire sprinkler tests

Below Are Some Of the Tests You Should Regularly Perform

A fire sprinkler system is a valuable piece of your Rhoadsville, VA, commercial building. It can prevent a small blaze from turning into a massive and destructive fire. While you may need fire sprinkler cleanup services after the system activates, this is a small price to pay compared to the thousands of dollars in damage that flames could cause.
You thus need to make sure that your sprinklers are ready for a potential emergency. That is why sprinkler tests are required by the National Fire Protection Association. Below are some of the tests you should regularly perform.


1. Water Flow Test
Simply open the inspector's test valve and let the water flow for 60 seconds. Ideally, the alarm should sound and send a signal to the local fire station. Before you perform this quarterly test, contact the fire department so it knows not to respond to the property.

2. Main Drain Test
This test of the fire sprinkler system checks both the drain valves and the water supply. To start, record the static pressure indicated on the gauge. Then let the water in the main valve run until the pressure stabilizes. Look at the pressure again before slowly closing the valve. The difference between the two pressure readings should be less than 10 percent. A larger variance could mean a dropped gate or obstruction.

3. Trip Test
A partial dry pipe valve trip test should be done each year. Ideally, you should conduct the test when the weather is warmer to limit freezing. Partially open the control valve and make sure the system trips within one minute.
You should also do a full trip test every three years. This is the same as the partial test but requires you to fully open the control valve so the water flows.
To comply with insurance requirements and NFPA regulations, you must perform fire sprinkler tests. You can then rest assured that your fire suppression system will work during a blaze.

Don't Wait for Adjusters After a Storm

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

air movers placed in a home that has suffered from storm damage Storm restoration services in Locust Hill, Va

Don't Wait for Adjusters After a Storm

Strong storms with high winds and heavy rains can lead to floods and the destruction of property. If your home in Locust Hill, VA, suffers damage in a flood, immediate action is needed to begin cleanup and repairs. Check with your insurance provider to see if you have flood insurance to help cover the cost of repairs, but don't delay your rebuilding efforts.


1. Safety first
After a flood, shut off the gas and electricity as soon as possible. Wear protective gear whenever you enter the premises as flood water can be toxic.


2. Clean everything
Delaying the cleanup process until you hear from an adjuster about your flood insurance can lead to mold damage. Cleanup should begin as soon as safely possible. Standing water should be removed and soaked furniture and other salvageable items should be removed and thoroughly dried out. All appliances should be unplugged and dried out. Mud and storm debris often makes its way into the home during a flood. Shovel it all out. Scrub down the walls and floors with disinfectant and sanitizer before attempting to move anything back inside. You can consult a storm damage restoration specialist if you don't want to handle the task of cleanup yourself.


3. Make a list of damages
As you clean up, keep a detailed list of damages. Everything from furniture and items that were destroyed to flood damage to the structure of your home. Provide this list to your insurance adjuster when they are able to visit. Adjusters are often very busy after major storms. Keeping a list of damages for them allows you to report what you have lost while moving forward with cleanup and rebuilding.


4. Rebuild
Only after your home is safely cleaned and dried out should you move ahead with repairs and rebuilding.
If your home in Locust Hill, VA, is in an area known for frequent devastating storms, check with your insurance to verify that you have flood insurance or what type of protection you might want to add in case of a flood.

Mold Prevention in Rental Homes

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Woman covering her nose while looking at wall with black mold Hidden damp, moist areas are prime places for mold growth

When you own a rental property, keeping up with the maintenance of the home is key. These properties are often left vacant for extended periods of time between renters. Rental owners in Locust Hill, VA, should make mold prevention a priority in the maintenance of their homes so that the property is always safely available for the next tenant.

Steps To Prevent Mold

Whenever your rental property becomes vacant, do a thorough site inspection. If you know the property will be vacant for an extended period, take these additional steps:

  • Check for leaky pipes or any signs of water intrusion
  • Fix all leaks as soon as they are discovered to prevent water damage
  • Inspect the foundation of the home
  • Check the attic, basement, and other frequently overlooked areas where water might sit
  • Turn off and disconnect any appliances that use water
  • Turn off the water entirely, if possible
    Adjust the temperature controls

Humidity helps mold grow, so maintaining the temperature inside the home while vacant is an important step in mold prevention. Whether this involves lowering the heat or adjusting the air conditioning depends on the climate in which your rental is located.

How Mold Happens
Mold grows when damp surfaces are left moist and unattended. Water from leaky pipes, malfunctioning appliances, or even built-up rainwater or snow, can seep into unseen places in any structure. Damp floors and carpets are easily discovered, but moisture hidden behind walls, in attics, and within cracks and crevices of a foundation can create problems. Hidden damp, moist areas are prime places for mold growth.
Mold prevention should be considered part of the general maintenance of any rental home. Periodically check-in while the property is occupied, deep clean between tenants, and turn off the water during all vacant periods. Promptly address any water intrusions as they arise to stop mold before it starts. If mold is discovered, find a mold remediation specialist to resolve the issue and restore the home to safe rental conditions.

Brief Overview of Category 3 Water Damage

12/30/2020 (Permalink)

Drainage fountain of sewage. SERVPRO logo Blackwater comes from dirty and bacteria-filled sources

All water damage is not equal. In the same way, not all floodwater or water from other sources results in equal amounts of harm. When a professional cleanup and restoration company in Burr Hill, VA, is contacted to handle devastation caused by water in commercial property, one thing taken into account is the category of water that caused it. There are three categories, Category 1, or clean water, Category 2, or greywater, and Category 3, or black water. Category 3 is the worst kind of water damage.

What Is Category 3 Water Damage?

Category 3 water damage is caused by water that is highly contaminated. This black water contains substances, chemicals, microbes, and other contents capable of causing severe illness and even death.

What Are Possible Sources of Category 3 Water Damage?
Blackwater comes from dirty and bacteria-filled sources. This includes:

  • Toilet overflow from a backed-up toilet
  • Flood water that has picked up garbage or toxic materials
  • Sewage overflow
  • Runoff from rivers or the sea
  • Contaminated groundwater
  • Rising waters

What Are Options for Dealing With Category 3 Water Damage?
Because of the severe health risks associated with black water, Category 3 water damage should never be handled solely by untrained individuals. It is quickly absorbed by construction materials like wood, sheetrock, carpet, and anything that is porous in commercial buildings, allowing pathogens to spread and mold to breed. Exposure to such water carries the potential of contracting diseases like Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Norovirus. Building contents that have come into contact with the water must be thoroughly sanitized and may have to be disposed of. Cleanup should be left to professionals wearing proper personal protective equipment.
Not all flood water causes Category 3 water damage. However, since it can pick up harmful things as it travels, rising flood water often does. Besides water damage, it propagates the spread of mold and sickness, so it is best to have it handled by professionals as soon as possible.

Why Does Mold Have an Odor?

12/30/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth on wall with the phrase Musty Odor? A mold smell is a red flag that mold has found a moisture source

The musty odor that most people associate with mold is actually the smell of mycotoxins. A mycotoxin is a type of microbial, volatile, organic compound (MVOC) that mold releases as part of its digestive function. Not all MVOCs are mycotoxins, and consequently, not all mold has a smell.

How MVOCs Are Released

The air in Louisa, VA, is filled with tiny, invisible mold spores. These spores grow into mold when they come into contact with a moisture source, such as a leak. For mold to grow and colonize, it also needs a food source. Most materials can serve as food for mold, including:

  • wood
  • paper
  • cloth
  • drywall
  • food scraps
  • soil

Mold grows on the surface of its food source. As it digests this surface material, mold releases MVOCs and mycotoxins. These compounds are, essentially, mold burps.

Why Mycotoxins Exist
Scientists are still in the early stages of mycotoxin research, and the purpose of mycotoxins isn’t completely clear. The most pervasive theory is that they act as a defense mechanism for mold that may be competing with other organisms. In a damp building, there may be several organisms present and competing for the same food and moisture source, including other fungi, bacteria, dust mites, and/or insects. Studies suggest that the higher the competition levels, the higher the production of mycotoxins.

What The Odor Means
A mold smell is a red flag that mold has found a moisture source and is actively eating away at some part of your building. DIY cleanup efforts are often inadequate and can lead to recurring mold outbreaks. To ensure the mold is completely eradicated, it’s best to call a professional mold remediation company. These specialists have the necessary equipment and training to completely remove surface mold and airborne mold spores to eliminate the smell and prevent future mold damage.
While that distinctive, musty mycotoxin odor isn’t pleasant, it does serve as an excellent signal that your building has a mold problem. Don’t ignore the smell: The sooner mold remediation begins, the less mold damage will occur.

Why You Should Choose Only Certified Mold Removers

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

professional works on mold remediaation Choose an IICRC approved renovator for your mold removal needs!

When your home requires mold removal, only hire a certified mold specialist. To do so, select one that has been blessed by an educator-approved by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. A non-profit organization servicing more than 25 countries, the IICRC sets standards for many restorations, cleaning, and inspection disciplines.

Finding a Licensed Mold Remover

In many states, technicians are not required to hold official mold certification in order to practice. States that mandate removers carry a license are:

  • New York
  • New Jersey
  • Florida
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Louisiana

When searching for a mold renovation service outside these territories, check that the individual you are considering possesses legitimate certified mold treatment credentials.

Regarding Your Licensed Mold Remover
Choosing an IICRC-approved renovator means that your contractor is able to maintain certain ethical expectations. As members in good standing, every certified mold remediation specialist must follow a strict set of rules that assures satisfactory customer service.
Because the IICRC provides standardized training, teams carrying this stamp of approval have the skills and knowledge to complete an entire project safely and effectively. The organization further offers updated learning opportunities, meaning you should anticipate specialists who have a working familiarity concerning their discipline’s latest advances.
Most importantly, IICRC businesses are required to carry insurance, meaning that should something go wrong you and your property remain protected.
Mold has the ability to regrow if not eliminated properly. Hiring someone without accurate knowledge may mean a quick return of the unwelcomed spores you already paid to have evicted. Confirm with the IICRC that any prospective agent has been truthful regarding their status to avoid this from happening.
If you need a certified mold remover to stamp out a fungal assault in Louisa, VA, pick one that comes bearing an endorsement from the industry’s authority. Doing otherwise means placing your family and home at unnecessary risk.

3 Ways To Eliminate Common Home Odors

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

baking soda and vinegar with cleaning tools Baking soda and vinegar can help to remove unwanted odors!

Is there a noxious smell floating around your Locust Hill, VA, home that you just can’t seem to lose? Whether it’s a musty stench, an offensive cooking odor or the foul smell emanating from your puppy’s accident on the carpet, reliable home deodorization methods are useful for everyone from time to time. Here are tips for successfully removing stubborn home odors. 
1. Fabrics and Carpet
Fabrics and carpet are some of the most difficult materials from which to remove odors because these materials can absorb smells. The good news is, baking soda also absorbs odors, making it a great solution to eliminate foul smells, e.g., that of cigarette smoke. It’s as easy as sprinkling the baking soda onto the area and letting it sit for a few hours. Then just shake it out or vacuum it up.
Foul odors from biological matter (e.g., urine or vomit) can be removed with a mixture of three parts water to one part vinegar. First, blot the excess moisture from the material. Then, spray the area with the mixture and blot it with a clean towel. It may take a few applications to completely remove the smell.
2. Mildew and Mold 
If a space in your home is emitting a noticeable musty odor, you should have professionals inspect and clean the area. An issue with mold can get out of hand fast, and it may take more than just home deodorization to solve this problem.
3. Stale Air
Sometimes the air doesn’t necessarily smell bad, just stale. One of the best things you can do is open the windows and let fresh air go to work. You can also put a tiny smudge of vanilla on a light bulb; the warmth of the bulb will heat the vanilla, sending its sweet fragrance throughout the air. In addition, try cutting lemons into sections and placing them around your home for a refreshing aroma. 
If you’ve tried these methods and a foul odor is still lingering, home deodorization experts are available with professional equipment, such as ozone for eliminating cigarette smoke. They’ll have your home smelling clean and fresh in no time.

How To Lower Business Interruption Insurance

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Financial concept meaning Business Interruption Insurance with sign on the piece of paper. Business interruption insurance

When your business suffers water damage from leaking pipes or flooding, it is more than likely that you will have to temporarily close your business operations while those repairs are made. In the event that your business in Hamilton, OH, is forced to close for repairs, business interruption insurance can help you stay afloat until restorations are complete.

What Business Interruption Insurance Covers

Business interruption insurance steps in to cover the cost of operating your business in the event of a shutdown due to covered reasons. When there is limited or no amount of money coming into the business, there are a number of expenditures that still need to be paid. Business interruption insurance can help with:

  • Lost net income according to your financial records
  • Employee payroll
  • Loan payments
  • Taxes
  • Mortgage, rent, and lease payments


Business interruption insurance will not cover things like utilities, damaged property, damages covered by separate insurance like floods or earthquakes, or any lost income not documented in your financial records.


How To Lower Business Interruption Insurance Costs
The best way to keep costs low is to avoid the need to make any claims. Hire professionals to conduct regular scheduled inspections of the electrical and plumbing systems and to maintain their proper working order. Address every leaky or broken pipe as soon as it is discovered. Don't let an easily repaired leak become a large water damage claim. When damage does occur due to flooding, sewer backups, or burst pipes, work with restoration specialists to get your business back to safe conditions quickly. Clean, repair, replace, and restore everything as needed as quickly as possible.
The faster you can get your business up and running again, the lower your claim will be for business interruption insurance. To make a decision regarding the need for business interruption insurance, or the amount of it to purchase, consult your other existing policies. Check with your property insurance provider and your coverage regarding flooding and earthquakes.

3 Candle Alternatives That Keep Your Home Free From Fire Hazards

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

White Ceramic Wax Melt Wax melts are essentially candle wax without the wick

Choose The Three Following Candle Alternatives

Candles are desirable for their versatility in creating different ambiances. For example, a candlelit dinner is considered romantic and candles on an altar are considered spiritual light. Whatever their use, candles are a notorious fire hazard and should be used with caution or entirely avoided. To avoid a candle fire in Hamilton, OH, you can choose to opt for these candle alternatives:

  • Flameless LED candles
  • Essential oil diffusers
  • Candle wax melts


1. LED Candles
A fire can be avoided by opting for candle alternatives that use electronic lights. Flameless LED candles are equipped with many perks, such as the ability to set a timer or to change the color of the lights. If you like the ambiance created by the flickering lights, you can also purchase LED candles that flicker.


2. Essential Oil Diffusers
If you prefer the scent of the candles to the ambiance, an essential oil diffuser will provide the scent without the use of flames. Diffusers use ultrasonic vibrations to turn liquid water infused with essential oils into vapor. The vapor carries the scent of the essential oils with it into the air. These can be purchased with lights to give both the desired lighting and scent.


3. Candle Wax Melts
Wax melts are essentially candle wax without the wick. These are placed on a ceramic bowl with an opening in the center for a lightbulb. The heat from the lightbulb melts the wax, releasing its scent. Some wax warmers use heat from tealight candles rather than a lightbulb. Verify that it does not use flames when making your purchase to avoid a fire hazard.
Candle alternatives are a great way to make your home a safer place without compromising the desired ambiance from candles. If you have already had a candle fire in your home, contact a fire damage restoration service to aid in restoring your property. The best way to prevent a candle fire is to utilize their flameless counterparts.

An Ounce of (Water Damage) Prevention

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

leaky faucet Check your appliances for leaks!

No one in Louisa, VA, wants to experience gushing water in home spaces, or pooling water on adjacent areas, such as a porch or patio. Water damage is ruinous, work intensive and costly no matter where it occurs. And while no one can predict a malfunctioning dishwasher or a broken pipe, you can take a number of easy-to-do steps to lessen the chances of an emergency requiring water damage repair and restoration services. Maintenance is the operative word. Keep in mind that standard homeowner's insurance covers water damage, but not if that damage resulted from a lack of proper maintenance.
To keep your home water damage-safe, here are some basic preventive measures.
Indoors

Check appliances regularly for leaks or gathering moisture. Make small fixes—a broken pipe and pipe cleanup, for example—to ward off big repairs stemming from outright flooding or mildew, mold and structural damage.
Replace old, brittle washing machine hoses prone to cracking.
Ensure your home's water pressure is not so high that it puts undue stress on pipes and hoses.
Track water bills to spot gradually increasing or spiking costs that can indicate hidden leaks. 
Shut off the water main valve when your home is unoccupied for a long period.
Test your sump pump for operability.

Outdoors

Disconnect water hoses in winter to prevent frozen pipes that can burst and damage your home's interior.
Clean gutters and downspouts to free them of blockages that can harm the house foundation.
Inspect the roof and repair missing or cracked shingles to prevent leaking water in home interior areas.
Repoint loose chimney mortar and repair cracked bricks—another water entry point.
Keep landscaping clear of utility pipes to stop tree roots from splintering a water pipe.

Prevention is a proven strategy for all homeowners. It goes a long way toward avoiding the anguish and expense of finding unwanted water in home interiors—especially yours.

3 Problems Experts Have With Home Mold Testing Kits

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

mold testing kits At home mold testing kits.

Experts agree that home mold testing kits are no substitute for an investigation by a professional mold remediation company. Mold industry organizations, government agencies, and consumer groups have all issued statements advising homeowners against using these kits. Here are 4 common concerns experts raise about DIY mold tests.
1. Agar Sensitivity
Most home mold kits use a petri dish containing a common sampling medium called agar. You place the open dish in your home and wait for mold spores to grow on the agar, then seal the dish and mail it to a lab. Agar has a limited shelf life; however, some test kits don’t have an expiration date or a manufacturing date. Agar is also sensitive to heat and cold, and there’s no way to know how the kits were handled or where they were stored before they landed on your store shelf.
2. Shipping Requirement
All home mold testing kits require you to ship the sample to a lab. But once you place your sample in the mail, you have no control over what happens to it before it reaches its destination. Exposure to hot or cold temperatures, like in the back of a mail truck or on a loading dock, can damage the sample and throw off your results. Many DIY kits use glass slides, which are prone to breaking during transit.
3. Meaningless Lab Results
Mold levels vary from place to place and season to season; there is no universal, “normal” level. A mold kit can’t tell you what the “normal” levels for a home in Madison County, VA, should be. Without knowing what’s normal, it’s impossible to tell whether the levels found in the test dish were too high. In addition, professional mold tests measure the density of mold spores in a specific amount of air. DIY kits can’t provide this information, since they have no way of measuring the volume of air flowing past the test dish.
A home mold kit may be able to detect mold spores in your home, but it shouldn’t be considered a reliable mold testing option.

DIY Mold Testing: Is It Reliable?

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Mold Armor DIY test kit. For testing mold at home. A home mold kit can only detect the presence of mold

Do They Work?

Molds are a normal part of our natural environment and are usually found at levels that have no effect on people. However, mold grows rapidly indoors if one element is present — moisture. This fungus flourishes in warmth, darkness and oxygen, making many spaces in your house likely candidates for mold growth, especially "mold magnets" like basements. Homeowners in Louisa, VA, sometimes buy mold testing kits, DIY mold screening devices and various mold-detecting tape lifts and swabs to determine if they have a mold problem. Are they reliable? Here's a rundown:
Basically, a home mold kit can only detect the presence of mold. Because mold is all around us, outdoors and indoors, it will always test positive. An over-the-counter kit doesn't have the capability to provide more important information:


Mold Type
Home testing can't distinguish between the two types of mold:

  • Harmful mold, or black mold, is often found in large patches across surfaces. It grows rapidly, causes property and structural damage and requires professional mold remediation.
  • Non-harmful mold is the kind found in spaces like the pantry, refrigerator or breadbox. Although a common nuisance, this type of mold can be easily cleaned and removed.

Mold Source
Mold testing kits can't identify the mold's place of origin. The first step in remediation is pinpointing the location of the moisture causing the mold. In residential properties, the source could be anything from a seeping chimney to a cracked water pipe. In most instances, a professional evaluation is needed to determine the cause of the moisture.


Mold Level
DIY testing can't determine the level of infestation. The DIY kit only collects mold spores and confirms its presence. To know the degree of mold infestation, a homeowner would need to submit the kit for lab analysis (at added expense) or contact a mold remediation company for an assessment.
So, do mold testing kits work? Yes. Are they reliable or useful? No. The effectiveness of a DIY kit is limited. Only environmental hygienists and trained remediation professionals can accurately test for mold in your home.

Preventing Bread From Getting Moldy

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

mold growth on bread What should you do when you find mold on your bread?

It's possible for mold to grow on almost anything, as long as there's an adequate amount of moisture for it to thrive off of. Even so, some items are significantly more prone to mold growth than others, including bread. Read on to learn how to prevent bread mold from forming in your kitchen in Louisa, VA. 
Mold Prevention Tips
The following tips can help prevent mold from forming on your freshly baked or bought bread:

Consume the bread as quickly as possible: You don't necessarily have to feast on the entire loaf the second you return from the grocery store, but you should attempt to avoid storing it for long periods of time. 
Store your bread in a breadbox: Breadboxes are nifty tools designed to keep and store bread for prolonged periods. They help keep your bread dry by preventing moisture from building up. Even so, they can only do their job for so long, so don't assume that your bread is automatically safe.
Use ingredients that contain oil when baking bread: If you prefer to bake your own bread, opt for ingredients that contain oils. This includes eggs, milk, butter and more. These ingredients help prolong your bread's freshness. 
Store bread in the freezer for prolonged periods: If you really do need to keep your bread fresh for a long time, your best bet is to store it in the freezer. Mold spores aren't capable of surviving in conditions that cold.

What to Do When You Find Bread Mold
Even if you do everything right, safety is not always guaranteed. If you do find fungus growth on your bread, then you need to throw it away. Store the moldy bread in a plastic bag before disposing of it in a covered trash can. Next, thoroughly clean the area where the bread was found, as the spores can spread quickly. Fridge mold can quickly infect the rest of your fresh ingredients.
Bread mold is a common occurrence that isn't necessarily indicative of a larger mold problem. If you do suspect a bigger issue, contact mold remediation experts for support.

How To Determine When Storm Damage Is Deductible

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

Closeup on businessman holding a card with text TAX DEDUCTIBLE Some expenses caused by a storm might be tax-deductible

How To Determine When Storm Damage Is Deductible

When a storm sweeps through your community, it can leave a path of destruction both physically and financially. A company in Louisa, VA, should investigate all of its options in the wake of storm damage. It's easy to miss out on potential relief options such as signing up for disaster assistance in the form of low-interest loans. Insurance is also a big source of financial relief depending upon a company's policy. In general, a company's insurance will pay for damage as the result of high winds, hail, heavy snow and rains. In the case of a flood, a business will be covered for some damages if it has a flood insurance policy.


Professional Advice
Some expenses caused by a storm might be tax deductible. The rules for claiming tax write-offs on the federal and state level can be a little confusing so it makes sense to consult with professionals on what costs and expenses to claim. These professionals might be of help:

  • Tax accountant or professional
  • Insurance agent
  • Company accounting department
    Storm damage remediation franchise

In general, expenses paid for by the insurance company will not qualify for a tax deduction. However, expenses above and beyond what is covered by insurance can often be written off as losses and therefore reduce the amount of taxes that must be paid that year.

Quality Cleanup
Another option for improving financial results is for a company to work with a local storm mitigation team. The fast response of technicians can get to storm damage before it gets worse and causes such secondary damage as mold growth or degradation of materials. The faster water damage is addressed the less it is likely to cost. A professional team will also be able to help with keeping good records in terms of damages and costs. This is important both when dealing with the insurance company and the tax man.

Broken Pipe

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Water ran from the upstairs laundry room through the sofit and froze on the outside of the home Frozen water from a large loss

This picture depicts what happens when several hundreds of gallons of water run through the exterior walls of a home and the water freezes to the outside. Unfortunately for this home owner, the tenant had vacated the home, the pipe broke almost immediately after leaving, then the loss was not discovered for 10 days. The meter was read when the tenant vacated, it was then read the morning SERVPRO responded to provide services, we discovered that approximately 1,249 gallons of water ran through this home in almost 10 days! We performed a fair amount of demolition, set our drying equipment, and dried the home in a timely fashion. Just a tip to all our readers, if you vacate a home for an extended period of time, shutting the main water valve to the home will help to avoid such a disaster. 

Creative way to dry the ceiling cavity and sub flooring

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Fan with lay flat ducting drying the ceiling cavity and sub flooring Creative drying

This image depicts how to funnel the air flow from a fan directly into the ceiling cavity, while also drying the under side of the sub flooring. This was not a very large water loss, the bathroom above the kitchen had a slow leak coming from the supply line. SERVPRO was able to dry the bathroom tile flooring, which saved the insurance money in floor replacement. We had to remove a small amount of drywall from the ceiling, and dry the ceiling cavity, as well as the under side of the bathroom sub flooring. The only repairs needed after drying took place was a small drywall repair and painting to the kitchen ceiling. This is an example of how SERVPRO restores and saves insurance carriers money as well we reduce the headache of time consuming repairs for the insured.

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