3 Tips for Reducing the Chance of Mold Growth After a Home Flood

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Flood-damaged room in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ

Three Things To Do To Prevent Undesirable Mold Development

Damp, soggy carpet, musty smelling rooms, and stains all over the walls--these are visible effects of a home flood. These sights alone are disappointing and heart wrenching to homeowners in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ. The place they feel the most comfortable has been harmed. Another major concern though is mold growth, and, while there may not be spots on the drywall yet, it is possible that the spores are beginning to reproduce. Residents must act quickly to keep it at bay. Here are three things to do to prevent undesirable mold development.

1. Dry Out the Area
Fungal spores are triggered when moisture interacts with them; otherwise, they simply exist harmlessly in the house. The flooding kick-started them. To stop them from spreading, concentrate on reducing dampness. Do not rely on the air conditioner as it could move the mold to other rooms. Instead, look into industrial dehumidifiers which extract humidity from structure and air. Furthermore, wipe up large pools, or use a wet vacuum to pull up lingering fluid.

2. Extract Anything Drenched
Don't leave wet furniture or materials in the space as this encourages mold growth. Consult a water remediation team about what is safe to keep and what should go. As a rule, anything porous is a possible hazard, including saturated carpet, drywall, and valuables.

3. Avoid Relying on Bleach
Mold removal is the best option to lower the spore count. While it's tempting to pull out a bottle of household cleaner such as bleach, these formulas do not penetrate deep enough to ensure sanitation. First, trash anything of concern. Then, have professionals apply an antimicrobial spray to anything non-porous that remains.
Mold growth begins as soon as water finds fungal spores; the microbes quietly and invisibly replicate within days. Begin attacking the problem before it's seen by drying out the rooms and eliminating anything harmed. These steps are vital to minimizing remediation efforts and avoiding mold treatments.

Preventing Mold in a Leaking Roof

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Black mold damage in Leisure World, AZ

Every homeowner in Leisure World, AZ, wants to prevent black mold growth in their home. The primary cause of mold is when water gains entry into the home and the situation is not addressed immediately. Common causes of mold include:

• Leaking roof
  
• Leaking or busted pipes
  
• Too much humidity
  
• Lack of air circulation in bathrooms

How To Avoid Mold

Black mold only needs water and organic material to germinate in a home. When you have a ceiling leak, you have the perfect environment for mold growth. The mold will feed on the materials used in the build of your home, including wood and drywall.
The only way to prevent mold from building a colony in your ceiling is to repair the roof leak immediately and keep the area dry in the meantime. Allow air to circulate through the home to help speed drying time.
Other parts of your home that are prone to mold growth should be treated the same way. If your bathroom is always moist, install fans to circulate and dry the air after someone bathes. Repair pipe leaks as soon as they are present.

When Mold Is Present
If the area around the leak has been damp for more than 24 hours, it's likely there is mold present. Unfortunately, mold can't simply be wiped away. The best thing to do is to hire a professional restoration company to perform the cleanup for you.
Mold presents many hazards, and professionals are equipped with the right training and tools to keep the occupants of your home safe. It's important that you never attempt the mold cleanup on your own.
Black mold presents many issues to your home. By being vigilant in keeping the surfaces in your home dry, and providing good circulation in areas that are prone to moisture, you will be successful in keeping this destructive intruder out of your home.

3 Benefits of Smoke Alarms With Sealed Batteries

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms have 10 years batteries

3 Benefits of Smoke Alarms With Sealed Batteries

A growing number of smoke alarm brands are releasing models with sealed, long-life lithium-ion batteries. Find out more about some of the benefits of installing these models at home in Desert Uplands, AZ. Sealed battery smoke alarms can last up to 10 years before requiring replacement, but homeowners should still regularly test alarms and other fire safety systems.

1. No Need To Change Batteries
A smoke detector equipped with a lithium-ion battery does not require replaceable or rechargeable batteries. The Li-Ion batteries in these units also do not require charging to continue to function. Simply connect the alarm to the specified type of wall connector and it will activate.

2. Alarms Last For 10 Years
The lifespan of the average sealed Li-Ion smoke alarm is 10 years. Many manufacturers have warranties on these devices. The price of purchasing detectors that do not require replacement batteries is higher upfront but proves more affordable over time. The price of these units has also gone down over time, with a number of models retailing for less than $20.

3. Visible Power Indicators
Many alarm units that feature sealed Li-Ion batteries have a blinking LED light to indicate operation. The same button used to turn off false alarms may also have a test function. Check to see how to test any sealed alarm that you install in your home. Prevent fire damage by testing alarm sound function once a month or as necessary.
The lithium-ion battery in a long-life smoke alarm can help this appliance lower fire risks for up to 10 years. When it is time to replace a unit, it will beep in a manner that is similar to older detector units that run on replaceable batteries. This signal indicates that it is time to replace all alarms of the same age at a residence in Desert Uplands, AZ.

3 Ways to Tell if You Need to Replace Your Carpet

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Carpet replacement in Adobe Hills, AZ

3 Ways to Tell if You Need to Replace Your Carpet

The carpet in your Adobe Hills, AZ, home isn't going to last forever. The key is to know when to replace it. While major accidents, like a pipe break, could cause you to have to replace your rug, there are other smaller ways to tell if you need new flooring. Read on for some of the most common ways to tell if it needs to be replaced.

1. Consider Its Age
Typically, the maximum age a rug is expected to last is 15 years. The exact length of time it will last is dependant on how much use it sees. For instance, your spare bedroom's rug will last much longer than the one in your entranceway. Other things can endanger your rug prematurely, such as kids, pets, and having to have professional remediation performed near a rug. While there is no specific age that your rug needs to be replaced, you should start watching for other signs if it is nearing its maximum age.

2. Look for Damage
Tears and other types of damage are a sign that you need to replace your rug. If you find any large spots of damage, you should find a new rug immediately.

3. Beware of Allergens
Older carpets can hold mold spores and other allergens. If you notice an increase in your allergy symptoms, it could be due to your rug. For instance, watch out for trouble breathing. It would help if you also were on the lookout for an increase in your household's colds. An increase in cold symptoms could mean that it is time to replace your rug. This is especially true for carpets that have gotten wet due to a pipe break and were not replaced during the restoration process.
A pipe break, regular wear and tear, and other things can cause your rug to need to be replaced. Knowing some of the ways to tell if it needs to be replaced can give you an advantage in this process.

How To Limit Water Losses During Construction

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you ignore a small leak, it will just cause additional damage

As a construction business owner in Sunland Villages, AZ, you know the importance of preventing water losses. After all, just one broken pipe can cause tons of damage and delay the building process.
You may think that your insurance will cover water pipe repair services. Even if this is the case, the contractor will still absorb some of the loss. You thus need to emphasize water damage mitigation at the job site.

Causes of Construction Water Losses

Even a fully constructed building can sustain water damage. A partly-built property, however, is even more prone to water problems. After all, stormwater can easily enter the premises through an unsecured roof, window, or door. Below are some other common causes of water losses during the construction process.

• Drainage system failure
  
• Improper installation of water-sensitive equipment
  
• Flooded excavations
  
• Inadequate retention ponds
  
• Building envelope deficiencies
  
  

Prevention of Construction Water Losses
Planning in advance and performing plenty of tests should limit the damage during your build. By following a few simple steps before, during and after construction, you can limit your need for expensive water pipe repair.
In the pre-construction phase, create a quality control program to implement once the build starts. Have your plans peer-reviewed before the execution begins. As you create your schedule, make sure the piping systems are being installed and tested early on in the process. This way, if there are any leaks or floods, they will not cause extensive harm
Assign several members of your team to focus solely on tracking and repairing any water issues that occur during construction. If you ignore a small leak, it will just cause additional damage. You should thus conduct regular water tests and fix any troubles right away. Similarly, once the project reaches its close period, all water problems should be corrected within 48 hours.
Water pipe repair can cost you money and delay the opening of your property. However, you can mitigate the water damage by being diligent throughout the construction process.

What To Know About Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to understand how a fire sprinkler system works

What To Know About Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems

Fire suppression can start before emergency responders arrive at the scene of a blaze. A proper fire sprinkler system can greatly reduce the spread of smoke, heat, and flames. This will give you and your employees time to escape the property. It will also reduce the fire damage to the building.

Sprinkler Parts
Typical fire sprinklers have four major components. They are:

• Pipe
  
• Plug
  
• Liquid-Filled bulb
  
• Sprinkler head
  
  

The pipe connects to the building's water supply. A plug prevents the water from spraying into the building. The plug is held in place by a bulb filled with liquid. Once the nearby temperature rises above 135 degrees Fahrenheit, the bulb bursts. This releases the plug and frees the water, which enters the building through the sprinkler head.

Sprinkler Myths
Many newer properties require automatic sprinklers. Unfortunately, some business owners are reluctant to install sprinklers in their older buildings. They may have heard horror stories about accidental discharges spreading water throughout the premises in the absence of a fire.
That is why it is important to understand how a fire sprinkler system works. Sprinklers only activate if they sense high temperatures. Burnt food or cigarette smoke alone will not cause the sprinklers to discharge.
You may have also seen movies and television shows where all of the sprinklers on the property operate at once. This could cause massive flooding in a short amount of time.
Thankfully, this scenario does not happen in real life. Only the sprinkler closest to the fire activates. This should limit the water damage to your property.

Sprinkler Installation
The best time to install sprinklers is during the construction or remodeling of a property. Be sure to hire contractors who follow national and local fire sprinkler codes.
After a blaze, you will need to contact fire sprinkler cleanup specialists to remove the water left behind. However, the relatively minor damage caused by sprinklers pales in comparison to the destruction a fire can cause to your property. You thus should not hesitate to add sprinklers to your Leisure World, AZ, building.

4 Steps for Battling Mold in Your Home

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Moisture leads to mold growth

4 Steps for Battling Mold in Your Home

Finding mold growing in your home can cause panic, but remember that there are many types of mold, and telling the difference between them is not always easy. Whether or not that fuzzy patch is black mold, you can slow the spread with some simple steps while you wait for professional help.

1. Discover the Source
Mold issues stem from a moisture problem. Before you can take care of the fungus, you have to find the moisture that is helping it grow. If you have had recent water damage, it is likely that the issue started there. However, leaking pipes and roofs, condensation build-up and even wet clothing could all be propagators of mold.

2. Dry Out the Area
Mold cleanup starts by getting rid of any water or moisture that might contribute to the problem. Fix any leaks, clean up standing water and remove any materials that are damp. You can also use a dehumidifier and fans to get rid of any excess humidity in the area and speed up the drying process.

3. Turn off Your HVAC System
Mold is a fungus that spreads through airborne spores. The spores travel through your ventilation system until they find a warm, moist place to settle and grow. To help contain your infestation, turn off your HVAC system.

4. Call a Professional
Even if you found the problem early, it is always a good idea to have your home inspected by a mold remediation specialist. They will identify the type of mold, such as black mold, and develop a plan to help you remove it and get your home back to normal.
Any type of mold, not just black mold, causes alarm for homeowners, but by taking control of the situation and calling your local mold expert in Mesa, AZ, for backup, you can rest easy knowing you have contained the problem.

How To Handle a Toilet Overflow

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Overflows occur as a result of a blockage or break somewhere in the line

Take The Following Three Steps To Sanitize Properly

When water spills out of the commode, homeowners in Mesa, AZ, have several issues to consider. Not only does the space need drying out, but residents must consider the consequences of possible sewer damage. The fluid could be Category 3 water, fraught with bacterial spores. Wiping it down with towels isn't enough to reduce the hazardous environment. 

1. Minimize the Overflow
Stop the flow as soon as possible. Begin by turning the shut off valve on the toilet. This is usually located toward the bottom. Move it clockwise, ensuring that water can no longer enter the fixture. Before inspecting the toilet itself, eliminate the excess liquid. Lift up the toilet's lid. Pull on the level, lifting the valve seal. If assistance is needed, contact professionals at a sewage company.

2. Fix the Source
Overflows occur as a result of a blockage or break somewhere in the line. Inspect the commode first for an obstruction. A plunger or auger, also known as a snake, may be used to force out the problem.
If the lines appear clear, consider inspecting the outside pipes for sewer damage. Tree roots can puncture holes into the sewer tubes, exposing it to sand and dirt. The external buildup stops the flow. Examine the yard for dips or holes. This could be the spot of trouble. You may also look into the drain cleanout. A sewer cleanup company can run a camera down, searching for areas of concern.

3. Clean the Space
Tend to anything the flooded toilet ruined. Use soap and warm water to wash off the walls and fixtures. Run dehumidifiers to reduce the moisture levels in the walls and flooring. Once everything is dry, use a disinfectant to clean the space, killing off any lingering germs.
Be aware that a toilet overflow means possible sewer damage. Spend time eliminating the dampness, but also concentrate on eliminating microbe levels.

Planning for Disasters at Work

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

Disaster preparedness is critical so that your business can recover as quickly as possible during an emergency

How To Develop a Comprehensive Plan

No business owner expects a disaster to befall their company, but it's critical to be prepared. A comprehensive disaster preparedness plan will help you mitigate the damage and recover much faster. There are several good practices that should be included in your emergency planning.

1. Assemble a Team
Your emergency preparedness team in Sierra Estate, AZ, should include workers in each department or area so that you don't miss critical issues. Meet frequently to gather information and delegate roles and responsibilities. Determine who will contact emergency and storm damage restoration services. Make sure that top management approves of the business preparedness plan.

2. Identify Risks and Write Procedures
Identify potential risks and analyze the best way to mitigate each problem. Each company has different risks inherent in their business type and their location, so make sure you incorporate weather-related concerns in your disaster preparedness plan.
Once risks are identified, write procedures and work instructions aimed at reducing or eliminating each situation.

3. Train Employees
Your employees must be made aware of emergency preparedness plans. Post critical information on bulletin boards and label dangerous materials. Make sure exit signs are clearly marked for a quick exit. Send emails and distribute newsletters to remind workers of the company's emergency plans.
Develop a comprehensive training program for all employees. Give specific instructions on how to respond to each type of emergency, and let workers know who they must report to if evacuation is necessary.

4. Test Your Preparedness Plan
To ensure that your program is effective, it must be tested. Conduct fire and other emergency drills so that everyone is comfortable in the event of a true emergency. Keep track of the response time and effectiveness. Address any issues and continue to test the program.
Disaster preparedness is critical so that your business can recover as quickly as possible during an emergency.

How to Properly Treat a Major Burn

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

First aid care for a severe burn

Use The Following Guide To Administer Proper First Aid Care For A Severe Burn

In the case of a disaster, your commercial building in Adobe Hills, AZ, isn't always the only victim to suffer from fire damage. It's possible that you, or one of your employees, could suffer a major burn as a result of the disaster. 

1. Call for Emergency Help.
In extreme cases, your first course of action should always be to contact the paramedics, or another type of emergency response team. After you do this, you can begin burn first aid treatment.

2. Help the Victim Out of Danger.
Make sure the burn victim is not still in contact, or in danger of coming into contact, with the source of the injury. Make sure you can do so safely so you don't get injured in the process. If the victim is unconscious, check to make sure they're still breathing.

3. Remove Restrictive Clothing and Accessories from the Affected Area.
Areas that suffer from intense heat or fire damage can begin to swell quickly, so you need to remove any clothing, jewelry, belts or otherwise restrictive items that the victim might be wearing. This can help reduce the risk of further injury.

4. Cover the Burn With a Cool, Moist Cloth.
Never submerge severe burns in water, as you could put the victim at risk of hypothermia. Instead, dampen a cloth or bandage with cool water and carefully cover the affected area.

5. Elevate the Burn.
If you can do so without harming the victim, elevate the burned area. Try to get the injury above the victim's heart level.

6. Watch Carefully Until Paramedics Arrive.
Keep a close eye on the victim for signs of shock. Some possible symptoms might include irregular breathing, loss of consciousness and a pale complexion. Do not leave the victim's side until emergency responders arrive.
Fire damage and injuries can be very severe, and must always be taken seriously. Contact fire remediation experts if your commercial building has recently suffered from a fire.

5 Common Commercial Water Issues

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

A clogged drain is a common plumbing issue in commercial buildings

Common Water-Related Problems

Some plumbing issues may seem insignificant, but identifying and fixing these problems while they're small is vital when it comes to protecting your building. A small problem, such as a drop in water pressure, is often indicative of a larger issue, like a broken pipe. Make sure you regularly inspect your building in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ, for the following common water-related problems.

1. Pinhole Leaks
Pinhole leaks are common water repair issues for older buildings. Cast-iron pipes are only designed to last approximately 25 years, although certain circumstances can cause them to deteriorate sooner. Keep an eye out for silent leaks by checking for spikes in your water bill or a drastic drop in water pressure.

2. Dripping Faucets and Toilets
Much like pinhole leaks, dripping bathroom appliances can slowly, yet steadily, drive up your monthly water bill. Take the time to inspect your commercial bathrooms and make any necessary repairs.

3. Clogged Drains
Customers tend not to treat commercial bathrooms with the same respect that they would their own residential ones. This can lead to many undesirable items getting flushed and ultimately clogging your drains. This can cause a wide range of issues, from an unsightly bathroom to severe toilet overflow.

4. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is a good indicator for several issues, such as leaking pipes. The low pressure is a result of water escaping through the leak, and not making it to the faucet where it's supposed to make its exit.

5. Structural Damage
Cracked, bulging or otherwise warped walls, ceilings and foundation can signal the presence of a serious leak. These deformities are caused by water accumulating within the walls and ceiling and are a good indication of a major flooding problem caused by a leaking or broken pipe.
A broken pipe, backed up toilet, and clogged drain are all common plumbing issues for commercial building owners. Staying on top of the issue can help reduce the amount of damage your building suffers and keep your business running smoothly. Contact water restoration experts for professional help.

How To Protect Your Landscape From Flooding

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Green roofs allow you to add some landscaping to the top of your home

Ways To Limit Outside Flooding

Floods do not just affect the inside of your Desert Uplands, AZ, home. Outside flooding can be harmful, as well. While your plants do need some water, excess rain can cause damaging runoff and soil erosion. You thus need to adjust your landscaping to protect it from increasingly powerful rainstorms.
Flood-proofing your backyard will not just keep it looking beautiful. You may also save money, as well. If you properly protect your yard, you will not have to spend as much on water damage repair services. You also may not have to pay stormwater runoff utility fees. Many cities charge residents if runoff enters the local rain drainage system.
Best of all, storm-proofing your yard does not have to be expensive. Below are some easy and affordable ways to limit outside flooding.

1. Apply Heavier Mulch
Flood water is no match for light mulch. The water will simply transport this mulch all over your lawn, forcing you to rake it following the rain storm. Opt for heavier mulch that consists of man-made materials or hardwood instead.

2. Buy a Green Roof
Green roofs allow you to add some landscaping to the top of your home. They provide several added benefits besides reducing the risk of flooding. They insulate your home and thus reduce your utility bill. Green roofs also last longer compared to traditional roofs.

3. Maximize Your Swales
Swales are depressions that redirect excess water. Make sure your swales do not drain the flood water directly off your property. Instead, have the swales direct the water toward areas that need excess moisture, such as dry wells. You can also slow down the flow of the flood water by lining the low points of the swales with rocks.
By making some simple changes, you can prevent outside flooding from damaging your landscape. Adding heavier mulch, installing a green roof and utilizing swales can all protect your property and limit the amount of runoff entering the city's water system.

How Do I Get Rid of Mold Odor?

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Mesa, AZ

If you have had a mold infestation in your Mesa, AZ, home, you have probably noticed a distinct odor that lingers through restoration efforts. If you are worried whether the odor you have noticed is a sign that further restoration is needed, you are right to be concerned. Hazardous mycotoxin particles that mold produce are an indication that airborne fungal material is still present in your home.

What is Mold?

All species of mold are actually tiny fungal organisms that spread by distributing airborne spores. Since mold plays a vital role in outdoor ecosystems, it is present to some degree in every environment. Although every home contains at least a small amount of fungal buildup, it can often be easy for homeowners to overlook a bigger problem. Obvious signs of a problem include:

• A distinct, musty odor
  
• Visible patches of dark material on wet surfaces
  
• Positive mold testing kit results
  
• Signs of decay on wood or other porous surfaces
  
  

Unfortunately, not all infestations are immediately apparent. The only way to clearly determine whether your home has been affected is by having a professional perform an inspection.
Removing Airborne Particles
Mycotoxin particles should be purposefully removed only after your home has been restored by a remediation professional. This will prevent mold from recolonizing spaces that you have just cleaned. Since odor-causing particles must be airborne in order for you to smell them, clearing the air using a HEPA air filtration device will reduce unpleasant smells while preventing the litany of problems that an entrenched mold infestation can create for you and your family.
Mycotoxin particles and mold buildup can make life at home less relaxing for you and your loved ones. A home that is free of mold odor and other signs of an infestation, conversely, is one that you can enjoy fully. A mold remediation expert can restore your home to normal and ensure that there is no need for costly repeated treatments.

3 Causes of Noise in Your Water Heater

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

The options listed here are not the only possible causes of noise in your water heater

3 Causes of Noise in Your Water Heater

When household appliances and equipment begin to emit strange noises, it is often cause for concern. Abnormal sounds can indicate broken parts. However, they can also be caused by factors besides damage. If your water heater in Leisure World, AZ, is producing out of the ordinary sounds, it may be due to any one of many possible causes. Here are three reasons that are potentially responsible for any racket made.

1. Noises Caused by Harmless, Easily Fixed Problems
If noises from your water heater are keeping you up at night or constantly getting on your nerves, they might be due to minor problems with easy solutions. For example, screeches or scream-like noises may be caused by inadequately opened valves; this din can be eliminated by fully opening the valves so that water no longer has to squeeze through tight, narrow openings. Another noise-causing issue that can be fixed with minimal effort is a loose element in an electric heater, which can result in a humming noise. This can be resolved through tightening of the element. Problems like these are harmless and unlikely to cause any damage besides annoyance if left untreated.

2. Noises Caused by Normal, Non-Problems
Then there are perfectly normal noises. These are natural byproducts of the heater running. Examples include:

• Ticking and/or tapping from check valves or heat traps
  
• Knocks from pipes hitting against walls due to expansion and contraction from cooling and heating
  
• Hammering sounds from pipes hitting against walls due to the starting and stopping of water flow
  
  

3. Noises Caused by Sediment
Sediment can cause popping and rumbling. Popping can come from water forcing its way through sediment that has gathered around the heater's element, and rumbling may occur if there is sediment in the tank. Cleaning and a water heater flush by a professional cleanup service may help reduce any clamor caused by sediment in the tank.
The options listed here are not the only possible causes of noise in your water heater. Consulting a professional if you are uncertain what the cause is may be the best move. However, not all noises signify something wrong. There are many possible harmless reasons.

Be Proactive To Protect Against Plumbing Problems

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Plumbing problems don't have to catch you unprepared.

Plumbing problems are often some of the most uncomfortable and unpleasant to deal with, but there are steps you can take to avoid them. One of the first steps to protecting your Mesa, AZ, business is identifying the proper type of commercial plumber. Some professionals focus on industrial systems, and others focus on restoration services.

Recognize the Potential for Trouble

There are many types of plumbing issues that could affect your business if you don't take preventative actions:

• Plugged toilets
• Clogged drains
• Dripping faucets
• Leaky pipes
• Buried pipes broken by tree roots
  
  

Set Up Routine Maintenance

The next step to protecting your business from any of these damages, including a broken pipe or water main, is to establish a routine maintenance schedule. This should include assessments of the whole system, answers to your questions, and routine repairs as necessary. For instance, a leaky faucet may seem to be just an annoyance, but it should be a priority if you don't want to face more expensive plumbing problems.

Schedule Inspections for the Water Heater

Professionals should also take a look at your water heater during their service visits. If the water temperature is hard to control, your water heater may need attention. However, you should not attempt repairs on the heater. Fidgeting with the wrong valve or component could lead to an explosion. It's always best to turn this repair over to a professional.

Know What To Expect

The third proactive step to avoid plumbing trouble is paying attention to the normal sounds and smells of your business. A slow drip of water within the walls can lead to unexplained odors and an increase in your utility bills. Contact plumbing or restoration professionals whenever confronted by unexplained rattles or bumps and by unpleasant smells. These could all be signs of unseen trouble.

Plumbing problems don't have to catch you unprepared. Decide now that you'll protect your business and surrounding property by taking preventative actions. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/.

Prepare Your Family In Case of a Fire Emergency

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

House fire in Sierra Estate, AZ

Destructive blazes can break out in any residence, even yours in peaceful Sierra Estate, AZ. Although the odds of an inferno striking can never be entirely eliminated, simple fire preparation can reduce your odds of an accident becoming reality.

Top Causes of House Fires

Recognize some of the most common causes of home fire incidents:

• Kitchen instruments being left on.
  
• Falling asleep while smoking.
  
• Portable heaters resting near combustible materials.
  
• Leaving candles unattended.
  
• Improper handling of BBQ grills.
  
  

Knowing where a flame can likely ignite will greatly aid your implementation of fire safety measures. Pay attention to these trouble spots and engage in proactive fire preparation to avert the need for a visit from a fire damage restoration expert.

House Fire Safety
Beyond attending to the above danger zones, you can also beef up your family’s fire safety game. Make certain each floor of your house is adequately equipped with smoke alarms and replace the batteries well before they expire. Purchase an extinguisher and place it where accidents are most likely to occur. Two necessary locations are the kitchen and beside the fireplace.
Next, it’s critical that you educate your children. Teach them what fire alarms sound like and stress what to do when one goes off. Explicitly demonstrate how to escape every room of your residence and establish an outside meeting spot. Stress the importance of stopping, dropping and rolling if on fire and review with them how to dial 911. With your lesson complete, test your little ones by having them repeat everything and demonstrating what they have learned. Finally, run a practice drill to confirm your plan is solidly in place.
Fire preparation should not be difficult but it must be taken care of, especially in families with vulnerable members. Know where flames are likely to spark so you can avoid them from happening and set aside time to coach your youngsters on how to handle a sudden emergency.

5 Signs Mold May Be Present in Your Business

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Ceiling tile mold in a Desert Upland, AZ business

Mold At Your Place Of Business?

If you’re worried about the possibility of ceiling tile mold at your Desert Uplands, AZ, business then you may want to talk to a local mold remediation service. These professionals can test for the presence of mold, but they may also be able to tell you what signs you can look for. These signs may include

1. Musty Odor

When it releases spores mold may give off a musty odor. Oftentimes this scent can be present even when the mold itself is not seen. If you notice this odor it’s a good idea to contact a professional.

2. Water Stains

Mold needs a moist environment to grow which means it is often found in areas where water damage has occurred. If you notice new water stains or an odor in a location where stains are located, you may want to consider the possibility of mold.

3. Discoloration

In many cases the presence of ceiling tile discoloration can indicate the presence of tile mold, this may be yellow or brown in color and may be the result of a roof leak or a problem with the plumbing. Water from these events can create an environment for mold to grow in.

4. Leaky Pipes

Mold may grow in areas that have experienced water damage, such as around a leaky pipe. If you think there might be mold growth areas like this may be among the first a remediation professional checks.

5. Nonfunctional Ventilation

If there is a problem with the ventilation system, there is a chance the condensation could build up around or in the shaft. This moisture has the potential to provide the water necessary for mold growth.

When determining if there’s a chance you have tile mold at your place of business looking for these five signs may help. A musty odor, the presence of water stains and discoloration, and a water source such as leaky pipes or condensation around ventilation may all be signs you should have a professional check for mold.

4 Steps for Creating a Business Continuity Plan

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Business continuity plan

Four Steps To Creating An Effective Plan

A business continuity plan is used to plan ahead in case disaster strikes. Creating a good plan can help keep your business operational even after a flood. By analyzing your business processes and planning for what could happen in a disaster, you can decrease the impact on your company. There are four steps to creating an effective plan.

1. Conduct a Business Impact Analysis
Begin the process by identifying critical business functions. Ask yourself what processes and resources support those functions, what the impact would be of losing those functions, and at what point in time the loss would begin to occur.

2. Identify Critical Business Functions and Processes
Rate the processes and functions you identified in your business impact analysis. Use your analysis to determine what areas are critical to your business and which ones you could get by without.

3. Create Your Business Continuity Plan
Your plan should revolve around the critical business functions and processes you identified in the previous step. Focus your efforts on the most critical and work your way down the list. Determine which safeguards will help for each process or function. Safeguards may include action items like tying down certain items, sending people home to work remotely, or transferring your computer systems over to an offsite location.

4. Test the Plan and Train Your Employees
The best way to know if an emergency response plan is effective is to try it out. When you do a walkthrough with your employees, you may find that a step or two is missing. Update the document and then try again. Once the plan plays out the way you want it to, train the rest of your employees on what should be done in case of an emergency.
Although a good business continuity plan can minimize the impact of an emergency on your business operations, damage to your building can still occur. If you have experienced water damage in Adobe Hills, AZ, call a professional water remediation company for help.

Upkeep of Your Commercial Roof

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Regularly inspect your roof in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ

Are You Roof-Ready?

"The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining." No matter where your business is located, at some point your building's roof will need repair or replacement. Hurricanes, blizzards, wind, hail, and heat all contribute to roof damage. Maintenance is key and can mean the difference between a minor cost outlay and a major expense. As the old saying goes, don't wait until you're facing an emergency to safeguard your building's first defense against the weather. Here are some tips:

Inspection
1. Inspect roofing twice a year to fend off a roof rebuild or replacement.
2. Check for broken or cracked surfaces, peeling edges, or flashing in need of repair.
3. Ensure your drainage systems are free of debris to allow proper water outflow. Remember that blocked drain pipes can cause "ponding" on your roof, undue structural stress, and, at worst, a roof collapse.
4. Keep close watch on the growth and condition of your building's surrounding trees to avoid roof damage from a storm-driven, downed tree.

Maintenance
1. Repair cracks, fissures, and leaks immediately. The sooner you fix them, the less they will cost and the less collateral damage they will cause. Leaks, for example, can lead to flooding or mold in other parts of your building and require professional commercial restoration services.
2. Trim back overhanging tree limbs and branches to protect your roof and windows from airborne debris. Cut down dead, decaying trees. Wind damage from fallen trees and branches can be both extensive and expensive.
3. Consider waterproofing your roof to seal it from the ruinous effects of torrential rain and intense sunlight and heat.
It's good business in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ, to be proactive. Avoid roof damage and the host of structural problems that come from deferred maintenance. Regularly inspect your roof and invest in the smaller-cost repairs that will prevent large, wallet-emptying expenditures later.

The Reasons Why You Should Not Drive During a Flood

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

Never drive through a flooded roadway. Turn around, don’t drown

If you experience flashing flooding in Leisure World, AZ, the best advice is to steer clear of any flooded street you encounter. Though the water may appear shallow, it does not take much to stall your vehicle or, worse, cause it to swept away by the floodwaters. You can avoid personal injury and car damage by arming yourself with knowledge about road conditions during floods.

Flood Water vs. Your Car

While it is best to stay home when weather conditions are severe, flash flooding occurs quickly and you may get caught in the downfall while driving your vehicle. If possible, you should turn around when you encounter flooded roads. You may think you can simply drive through the water, but it only takes a few inches of water to stop your car:

• Six inches cause loss of vehicle control
  
• One foot causes most vehicles to float
  
• Two feet can carry the vehicle away
  
  

Though you may have a strong vehicle, it is not necessarily a match for the rushing force of water. If on your drive home you see a flooded street, you are advised to find an alternative route.

Navigating Roads During a Flood

Another reason to avoid floodwaters is the difficulty in navigating out of them. It may appear safe to simply exit your stalled vehicle, but even just a few inches of rushing water can send you flying off your feet. If the water was enough to halt your car, then chances are you will not be much better equipped. Flood conditions make navigation challenging, so if you heed any travel tips during severe weather conditions, the number one should be: Avoid flooded roads at all costs. Accidents are sometimes unavoidable, and if you do experience any storm damage, then the best option is to contact a disaster recovery team for assistance. Otherwise, the best advice is to keep clear of any flooded street you encounter while driving.

Why Does Black Mold Grow Inside My House?

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Mold gowth in kitchen

The spores that cause black mold are everywhere, even inside your Sunland Villages, AZ, home. Therefore, when there is a moisture problem in the house, it creates the perfect conditions for this mold to thrive and grow. Effectively eliminating this issue requires more than simply wiping off mold from the surface. Continue reading to learn about finding and fixing moisture sources, along with proper cleanup procedures.

Finding Moisture Sources

Mold growth is encouraged by excessive humidity. A variety of scenarios can increase the moisture enough for mold to develop:

• Damaged or broken plumbing
  
• Leaky roof
  
• Flooding or other natural disasters
  
• Poor air circulation
  
  

The strong presence of mold, usually indicated by visible stains or a strong musty smell, demonstrates where the potential problem is located. Pay close attention to your surroundings to find the source and take decisive action.

Combating Mold Sources
Before you focus on removing black mold, you need to resolve the root cause of the issue. Most of the time, these are structural or mechanical issues such as defective plumbing or a roof leak. Even if you have some knowledge in these areas, the safest option is to call the respective professional, such as a plumber or roofer, to inspect the area and find a solution. If these situations are not present, you may need to boost ventilation by opening windows and using fans.

Cleaning Mold Effectively
Once the moisture problem is gone, you need to handle the mold cleanup. This organism can spread spores easily throughout the area, increasing its growth and damaging your property. The safest bet is to call a professional mold remediation team. These specialists have experience dealing with these situations. They can inspect your home, create a specific mold elimination strategy, and execute it using advanced equipment and tools.
The humidity that facilitates black mold is caused by multiple factors inside your home. Protect your place by identifying the moisture's source and calling the right people to handle both the issue and the resulting mold.

4 Fire Preparation Tips for Businesses

7/5/2020 (Permalink)

Contact 9-1-1 to alert emergency services when you have a fire

Incorporate This Four Tips Into Your Disaster Recovery Plan

Without proper fire preparation, a fire at your business can easily lead to widespread panic that could result in additional property damage and a higher risk for your employees. Consider incorporating these four tips into your disaster recovery plan.

1. Create a Fire Evacuation Plan
One of the most important components of your disaster preparation plan is making sure your employees know how to safely evacuate during a fire. Your plan should cover as many likely scenarios as you can think of as well as guidelines on what to do if an unexpected situation occurs. Once you have drafted your plan, make sure you practice executing it.

2. Know Your Risks
Before you can begin mitigating your fire risks, you must first know what they are. The most commonly encountered business fires are those started by cooking equipment, intentional acts, and electrical failures. Useful handbooks are available from the National Fire Protection Association. If the service is available in Mesa, AZ, arranging for the local Fire Marshal to inspect your property and identify hazards can be a good fire preparation step.

3. Ensure You Are Following Fire Safety Guidelines
Fire damage often results from preventable fires. Be sure you are observing safety guidelines, such as not plugging too many electronics into the same outlet, properly using extension cords, and performing regular inspections.

4. Keep an Updated List of Emergency Contacts
In most cases, you will want to contact 9-1-1 to alert emergency services when you have a fire. However, it is a good idea to maintain a list of people, such as suppliers, customers, and fire restoration services, you may need to contact after a fire. Store this information off-site, so that you can still access it if you are unable to enter your business.
Proper fire preparation is key to lowering your business' fire risk. These four tips can help you draft your disaster recovery plan.

Why Your Clients Need Expert Assistance for Stormwater Cleanup

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning up after stormwater damage in Sierra Estate

Extreme weather events are increasing in frequency and number, which means an increase in water damage and storm claims filed by your clients. If you have the job of helping Sierra Estate, AZ, business owners recover from any type of storm damage or sewage cleanup, this discussion about water contamination may help you educate your clients.

Water Toxicity Levels

When stormwater enters a home or business, the damage is serious because of the toxicity level of the water. Floodwater is designated as Category 3 contamination, the highest level. Blackwater is another term for this highly toxic water. Professional cleanup services are recommended for the following reasons:

Floodwater can contain toxic chemicals, physical hazards, and sewage.
Stormwater damage requires specialized ventilation and safety equipment, which are standard procedures for restoration specialists.
Water remediation professionals are trained to work quickly, which minimizes the opportunity for secondary damage to develop.
Significant damage can be easily overlooked by the untrained eye.

Professional stormwater cleanup is best performed by experts due to the toxicity. It’s not recommended that a layperson attempt to clean damage caused by black water without assistance. It may help your clients to know what to expect from professional remediation crews.

Stormwater Cleanup Overview
Once the water has been removed with large vacuums, crews will set up ventilation systems and begin sorting water-damaged items. Your clients can generally work with the crews to set up drying areas and select items for restoration.
A team will professionally clean and disinfect your carpets, drapes, and other porous items, if possible. Drywall and other wet materials may need to be replaced. Paper-based items are challenging to savage but may be saved if addressed immediately. The toxicity of black water necessitates a multi-phase process of drying, sanitizing, and pressing. Sometimes document services will also furnish a HIPAA-certified professional to ensure the security of your documents.
Category 3 water damage presents a complex and stressful time for your clients. A team of specialists can offer safe and timely services to help your clients restore their properties and their peace of mind as soon as possible.

4 Ways To Prevent Water Damage in Your Home

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

Develop a relationship with a good plumbing contractor in Adobe Hills, AZ

4 Ways To Prevent Water Damage in Your Home

Preventing water at home can seem like an insurmountable task, and in many ways it is. In some cases, even the best efforts cannot prevent any possibility of water damage. However, the actions you take can have an effect, either in reducing the level of water damage or in preventing a problem altogether. Targeted, smart precautions won't take a lot of time or cost a lot of money, but still might pay off handsomely. Consider the following actions:

1. Keep an Eye on Plumbing. Develop a relationship with a good plumbing contractor in Adobe Hills, AZ. A reputable plumber can fix many small problems for you and can inspect old plumbing systems to ward off bigger problems, such as a broken pipe or a hidden leak.

2. Contact Water Damage Experts. A local water mitigation franchise can be a source of information before a catastrophe strikes. An experienced company may be able to advise you on ways to prevent water at home from becoming a large problem. If you do have a big issue, trained technicians can arrive at your home in a few hours or less and begin the mitigation process. This can prevent further damage and lead the way to a quick recovery.

3. Strengthen the Home. Many small steps can be taken in and around a home to prevent the damages caused by water. A strong roof system, including clean gutters, can keep water from spilling into the home. Storm drains divert water from foundations.

4. Keep Insurance Current. A strong insurance policy can help you recover from an expensive pipe cleanup or from other issues. Make sure your policy covers your home from the most common perils. If you live in a flood zone, consider getting flood insurance from the federal government.
It is never good to find water in a home where it does not belong. Proactive measures can limit your exposure to water damage.

What are the different types of smoke damage?

5/25/2020 (Permalink)

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Mesa East will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting.

Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (480) 835-6688

Common Sewer Issues in Commercial Buildings

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Tree roots growing in the sewer line is a common reason for sewer backup problems

What Are Some Causes of Sewer Issues?

If you smell sewer odors or notice a leak or toilet overflow at your building in Desert Uplands, AZ, immediate action is critical. You could have a blocked sewer, which if left unattended can lead to other problems. So, what are some causes of sewer issues? Always be mindful of:

1. The Accumulation of Food and Grease
Commercial kitchens, or even employee breakrooms, are likely to have clogged plumbing and sewer lines at some point due to the accumulation of kitchen waste in the sink drain. Grease is one of the worst offenders; it solidifies and sticks to the pipes. Coffee grounds and fibrous foods can also be a big problem, eventually clogging the sewer line. Various methods such as high-pressure water or rodding are frequently used for these types of clogs.

2. The Presence of Foreign Objects
The introduction of foreign objects such as feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, and paper towels is a very common bathroom plumbing issue. Bathroom drains and sewer lines are only designed to handle two things: toilet paper and human waste. High-power water jetting and rodding are a couple of measures that can be taken, but the lines of a blocked sewer might need replacing if the clog is bad enough. As with grease and certain types of food in the kitchen, prevention is key.

3. The Growth of Tree Roots
Tree roots can be a tremendous problem for sewer lines. Roots are always looking for moisture and nutrients in the ground. Consequently, they’ll sometimes perceive the moisture of a sewer line as a good source. Roots will grow into sewer pipes, causing cracks and eventually pipe breaks. Then, the tree roots may totally block a line causing a sewer backup. Tree roots will have to be cut back. Trees in the affected area may have to be removed completely, and the affected sewer line replaced.
If you experience any type of water disaster resulting from such problems as a blocked sewer or a pipe break, you can count on water damage restoration professionals. They’ll return your property to its preloss condition as quickly as possible.

Does Your Commercial Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Does Your Commercial Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

If you suspect mold damage in your commercial property, it's important to get it inspected and cleaned up as quickly as possible. Not doing so puts your business at various risks including building damage and liability for the health of others.
Mold clean up can be costly, so it's important to understand what your commercial insurance does and doesn't cover when it comes to mold mitigation and restoration.
In the 1990s, it became commonplace for insurers to write fungus exclusions, which includes mold, into their policies. The exclusion is included in the general ISO commercial policy. It provides limited coverage for mold damage caused by water damage or water leakage.
As the property owner, you will have to first show that you took all available actions to stop and repair the leak before the insurance will provide for remediation. Limited fungus coverage allows for removal and repairs not to exceed $15,000.
This means, if you had a water leak in your property for some time and only found it many months later, your policy would cover damage directly related to the leak, including:

• the cost of removing the mold
  
• repairing and replacing any materials damaged during the removal process
  
• the cost of any testing
  
• the cost of restoration following removal
  
  

So, while it's likely you don't need to add an additional mold insurance policy to your existing plan, it's important to be aware of the limitations of your current plan. It's unlikely that a mold problem would become so bad that repairs would exceed your policy's annual aggregate.
Fast action is important if you suspect water damage in your property. If you allow the problem to persist, and a mold problem gets out of control, your commercial insurance provider could deny a payout to help cover the expenses if they can prove you were negligent in your duty to stop the problem as the property owner.

Potential Pitfalls When Dealing with a Partial Loss

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Partial fire loss in Sunland Villages, AZ

Potential Pitfalls When Dealing with a Partial Loss

When your commercial property in Sunland Villages, AZ, is damaged by fire, chances are that the whole building will not need to be torn down and rebuilt. In many fire loss situations, part of the structure and the items within it can be salvaged. Hiring reputable fire mitigation experts can help you avoid several pitfalls that are common with a partial loss.

Hidden Damage
Much of the damage to your building will be visible during the assessment. There are many places in your building, however, where smoke damage can hide:

• In air ducts
  
• In cracks and crevices
  
• Behind walls
  
• Inside cabinets or drawers
  
  

Hidden problems that are left unresolved can result in lingering odors and secondary damage. Full fire damage repair involves finding every place where there is smoke or soot and cleaning it thoroughly.

Unexpected Delays
Your insurance provider prioritizes claims based on several factors, one of which is the extent of the fire loss. If only one small area of your building caught fire, you may experience a delay in your adjuster's arrival. That doesn't mean you have to delay repairs, though. You can demonstrate initiative by calling the repair company to get an assessment of the damage to your building and get started on a remediation process. The company can provide an itemized list of the necessary repairs to aid the adjuster when he or she arrives.

Unsatisfactory Restoration
The fire restoration process is not complete until your building looks like it did before the fire. A partial loss comes with the challenge of making sure that the restored area sufficiently matches the space around it. For example, if only part of your carpet was damaged, it can be tempting to only replace the damaged portions which would leave mismatched carpeting that is a reminder of exactly where the damage was. Hiring a team that handles both mitigation and restoration helps to ensure the job is completed well.
A partial fire loss is better than a total loss, but it is not without its challenges. Choose a quality repair company that can see the process through from start to finish to avoid common pitfalls.

Precautions for Dealing With Flood Water

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning up after storm damage in Mesa, AZ

No matter the source, water that leaks into your commercial property in Mesa, AZ, is a serious concern. Water damage can corrode materials, damage electrical systems and create an environment where mold can take hold. A fast response is critical. A local storm restoration team that works 24/7 and 365 days a year can get to your building in four hours and begin remediation promptly. Technicians have the training, experience, and equipment to manage the problem, whether it is large or small. Each situation is different but a company that specializes in water restoration can handle damage from hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, broken plumbing fixtures and ice and snowstorms.

Dealing With Contaminated Water

Moisture in your building can come from different sources. Sometimes it is clean water from a drinking line, but it can also be black water from a sewage pipe or from a flood. Contaminated water requires specialized equipment and specific techniques for cleanup. It has the potential to contain the following dangerous substances:

• Toxic chemicals
  
• Sewage
  
• Viruses
  
• Microbes
  
• Bacteria
  
  

It is important that water damage of this type is kept away from employees and customers. Anything the water touches should be considered contaminated as well. For complete restoration according to professional standards materials should be removed and replaced. The application of effective cleaning agents should be employed.

Handling the Aftermath of a Storm

Your goal is to get your company back up and running again after a disaster. Each day spent cleaning up your property from water damage means another day missing out on business as usual. Faster to any size disaster is the type of urgency you need. You also want to make sure the job is done safely and in accordance with the latest Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification standards. This ensures the cleanup follows best practices established by the cleaning industry, making it more likely the job will be done right.

What Is the Relationship Between Mold and Bread?

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

You can best handle bread mold by investigating its growth

Mold can potentially grow anywhere in Sierra Estate, AZ, especially under the right conditions. One of the most common growth locations is over food, especially bread. You may find yourself throwing it away after discovering it, but have you ever wondered why mold has such a special relationship with this food? Learn more about how dangerous bread mold is, how to eliminate it and why fungus growth thrives in this food.

The Danger of Ingesting Mold

The smell, taste, and texture of mold should be enough to deter you from eating it. Even then, you never know the effect this organism will have on your body, so avoiding it is the best strategy.

Eliminating Mold

Once you find mold on the surface of your bread, you will need to act fast. If you are reckless or take too long, you risk spreading the fungus everywhere.

• Equip gloves and face protection
• Remove bread and carefully place it inside a plastic bag
• Dispose of bag in the garbage
• Clean nearby area
• Inspect area for more potential mold

Quick elimination from the area prevents further damage and intervention by residential remediation specialists. 

The Cause of Growth in Bread

Mold is everywhere and depends on several factors to feed and develop, all provided by stored bread. This food is soft and rich with nutrients. It is also often stored in warm, dark places. While food in cool and bright places can still host fridge mold, bread is more likely to lead to fungus growth.
The bread in your kitchen is a likely place where you can find mold. You can best handle bread mold by investigating its growth, disposal methods and its effects on the body.

3 Important Fire Alarm Questions and Their Answers

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to your Adobe Hills, AZ, home, a fire alarm is a must

Questions You Should Consider

When it comes to your Adobe Hills, AZ, home, a fire alarm is a must. By alerting you to an emergency, this device can help prevent harm to you and your family as well as damage to your house. Despite their importance, it is likely that you do not spend much time thinking about these devices. The following are a few questions that you should consider.

1. What Kind of Alarms Are Available?

There are some important features that can vary between fire alarm models. Knowing these can help you determine the best device for your home. Alarms come in two common types: photoelectric and ionization. Each of these is better for detecting a certain kind of fire, so it is best to install both in your home. You can now find models with both types of sensors which makes this easier.

2. How Should You Maintain Your Alarms?

Along with the sensor, the method of powering your fire alarm can vary as well. They can use traditional or lithium batteries or can be hard-wired to your home’s electrical system. Lithium battery-powered alarms will not need to have their batteries replaced, but traditional batteries will need to be changed once or twice a year. Batteries should be tested once a month. To keep the device working properly, you should make sure that it is clean and free of dust and debris.

3. How Many Alarms Do You Need?

The number of alarms needed in your house depends on its size. So that you are quickly alerted to fire damage in all parts of your home, there should be at least one alarm on each floor, including basements and attics. There should also be a device installed in each bedroom and outside of each sleeping area.
Although your alarm can help limit the damage by alerting you to a fire, the building will likely still have some fire and smoke damage, and in some cases, the flames may be too large for you to contain on your own. No matter the severity, a fire remediation company can help return your home to its previous condition by performing cleanup and repairs.

4 Steps for Filing a Home Water Damage Claim

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

File a claim

4 Steps for Filing a Home Water Damage Claim

It’s probably safe to say that you don’t have a plan in place should a home flood occur; not many homeowners do. A pipe burst, leaking roof or toilet overflow are just a few water disasters that your home could face. It’s best to have an idea of what your insurance covers; obviously an insurance claim should be filed soon. But what’s the best procedure to follow? Take these steps to minimize damage and get your home and life back to preloss condition as soon as possible:

1. Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible so that they can send an adjuster to your home in Desert Uplands, AZ, to asses the damage. The adjuster needs to inspect all damage before cleanup begins.

2. File a Claim

The sooner you complete and submit the claim forms, the sooner you’ll be reimbursed for the repairs. The insurance company must, by law, send you the insurance claim forms to complete within a certain time frame.

3. Schedule and Prepare for a Visit With the Insurance Adjuster

The adjuster usually needs to visit the property in person to inspect the extent of the damage. This inspection will determine the amount that the insurance company will pay. In the meantime, create a list of all the destroyed and damaged property and take as many detailed photos as possible in case any changes occur before they arrive.

4. Prevent Additional Damage

If there are temporary repairs that require immediate action to prevent additional damage (e.g., roof tarping), be sure to take photos of the damage beforehand. The insurance company requires you to take any measures necessary to keep further damage from occurring. However, they probably won’t pay on non-emergency damage cleanup that’s begun prematurely.
Water damage is not something to take lightly, so it’s good to know how the insurance claim process works should the unthinkable happen. Choose water damage cleanup professionals to complete the restoration as quickly as possible.

How to Salvage Flooded Electronics

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

It is not safe to turn on flooded electronics before restoration

Water and electronics have always had a rocky relationship, and most people never ask why. Water contains minerals, salts and ions that can create false connections, resulting in electronic damage. These are the same circuits that house all your business records, and losing them would be a total disaster. Here are some of the things you could do to mitigate the effects of water damage on your devices in Leisure World, AZ.

Disconnect Flooded Electronics From Power

The first thing to do when water gets into your electronics is to get them off the mains. However, this seemingly simple task can be hazardous. It is advisable to switch off the electricity on the circuit breaker before trying to handle submerged electronics. Also, be careful when working with devices that have Lithium-ion batteries. They react catastrophically when exposed to water.
Other damages that water causes on electronics include:

• Short-circuiting
  
• Corrosion
  
• Broken LCD
  
• Ruined hard drives
  
  

When you manage to retrieve the device, please turn it off and remove the battery immediately. Drain all the liquid and disassemble it for the cleaning process.

Clean the Circuit Boards

Salvaging flooded electronics translates to thorough cleaning. Start by releasing connectors and removing any shields to gain better access to components. Use a toothbrush and isopropyl alcohol to clean the boards while paying attention to all the little parts. This process will get rid of any debris and deposits from the offending liquid.
After cleaning, dry the boards with a dryer on cold setting or leave them under a desk lamp overnight. Reassemble the device carefully and remember to use a working battery. The device should turn on without issues if you did everything right. In case it doesn’t, take it to a professional restoration service for a second opinion.
Remember, it is not safe to turn on flooded electronics before restoration. You run the risk of electric shock and permanent loss of data. So, it’s better to follow this restoration procedure if you want to be on the safe side.

Stop Water Damage Early

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in Sunland Villages, AZ building

Consider the Following Three Tips

When the water inside a building is allowed to linger, it can have devastating and costly effects. If allowed to puddle, the liquid absorbs into materials such as drywall and flooring, harboring microbes and ruining the facility's structure. Business owners in Sunland Villages, AZ, need to take precautions to avoid severe damage. Consider the following three tips.

1. Be Proactive in Maintenance

Don't wait for problems but stay aware of your building's upkeep. To avoid major issues with a pipe cleanup, you should inspect your plumbing regularly. Have a trusted expert come in once or twice a year to look for any potential leaks or concerns. In addition, the roof should be checked after major storm systems, keeping an eye on shingles that may need replacement.

2. Be Careful With Drains

Proprietors do have some control over keeping drains free and clear. Post a sign for customers and employees, reminding them that anything other than toilet paper could affect the septic system. Therefore, feminine products and anything else should be disposed of in receptacles. If your place has a kitchen, steer clear of pouring rice, noodles, and oils down the system. Grease congeals and blocks it up. The others are absorbent, expanding with water. If a clog continues to grow, it could cause a backflow that brings category 3 water inside.

3. Be Aware of Moisture

When humidity and water linger, they allow for several major complications. Your wood could begin to rot, ceilings could crumble, and mold might grow. Therefore, keep it dry. Run the HVAC system as needed. In rooms that appear humid or musty, place moisture absorbing products. Finally, if a broken pipe or another issue occurs, immediately clean it up and bring in industrial dehumidifiers. Also, contact a water restoration company. The experts have specialized equipment for cleaning and airing out objects.
You don't want water inside your business property. It's not as simple as wiping it up and forgetting about it. Instead, continually check pipes and utilities, avoid tossing inappropriate items down drains, and remain vigilant in reducing humidity and moisture.

4 Common Sources of Water Damage in Commercial Buildings

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

A cracked foundation or improper flashing installation can cause mold to grow over time

Common Causes of Water Damage in Commercial Buildings

Water is an invaluable resource until it collects in the wrong place. Even a fairly small amount of unwanted water can have a devastating effect on your business if it’s not dealt with quickly and properly. Keeping excess water and humidity out of your building is the key to mold prevention. So, what are the most common causes of water damage in commercial buildings?

1. Floods

A flooded building can cause a significant amount of damage. The water can cause damage to the flooring, drywall, furniture, electronics and anything else that might be on or near the floor. Mold is very adaptable and mold growth can occur on most surfaces. Floods can be caused by heavy rainfall, improper landscaping, plumbing problems and activated fire sprinklers.

2. Roof Leaks

Roof leaks can be caused by a number of different factors including old or missing roofing materials, storm damage and clogged gutters. The roof should be inspected regularly and gutters should be cleaned routinely. Overhanging tree limbs should also be cut back to prevent roof damage from a falling limb or excess debris in the gutters.

3. Plumbing Problems

Plumbing problems can be a major source of water damage. Since many pipes are located in the walls or under the building, a water leak can continue undetected for weeks. Plumbing issues can be caused by leaking or burst pipes, toilet overflows or clogged drains. Regularly inspect any plumbing that you can see. Also, be sure pipes are properly insulated against winter temperatures to prevent bursting.

4. Foundation Cracks

Cracks in basement walls or floors can cause water seepage, which can ultimately create major damage if not repaired in a timely manner. Major structural damage can occur to your building’s foundation, including the shifting of the building under its own weight. It’s important to check for cracks or signs of water in the basement and call on professionals if you notice anything.
It’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of excess water. If your building in Mesa, AZ, sustains water damage, be sure to contact cleanup specialists to return your building to health.

Resolving Potential Water Damage to Your Furnace

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Give SERVPRO a call if you experience a busted pipe in your business

Four Important Steps to Treat and Repair Your Furnace

When it comes to your business in Mesa, AZ having a functioning furnace is typically vital. A furnace helps maintain comfortable levels of heat, air conditioning and ventilation for employees and customers. Malfunctions such as a broken pipe can cause a furnace flood and water damage to your business. Therefore, it may be in your best interest to be prepared in an event of a flooded furnace. You can prevent further loss to your business by understanding how a pipe can break and following four important steps to treat and repair your furnace.

What Can Cause a Pipe To Break?

There are quite a few ways your business could have a water problem on its hands. The following types of water damage can occur due to severe weather conditions and poor plumbing:

• Water can freeze and burst in the pipes.
• Pipes that aren’t properly bolted in place may move due to the constant water circulation and may break.
• Poorly maintained pipes can suffer from corrosion.
  
  

How Can You Repair Your Furnace?

If your furnace has been damaged thanks to a broken pipe, there are a few key steps you can take to solve this problem.

• Turn off your furnace.
• Remove the water from the furnace flood either on your own or with the help of a professional restoration service.
• Replace your furnace valves if they have been submerged in water, especially if your furnace is electric.
• Your air ducts may also be wet. Turn on your furnace and pump as much warm air through the air ducts in order to dry them.
  
  

Recovering from a furnace flood can seem daunting at first, but being prepared can make it easy to handle. There are professionals available in Mesa, AZ who can fix damaged furnaces and provide air duct cleaning in case you need further assistance. With these solutions available to you, your business should be able to resume satisfactory performance once more.

5 Tips for Fire Preparation at Your Business

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

An emergency plan for your business should include the location of exits

Five Fire Preventing Tips

When it comes to having a business in Sierra Estate, AZ, fire prevention can be an important part of keeping the staff and property safe. Here are five tips every company should know about for preventing a fire.

1. Avoid Open Flames

One way to avoid a business fire is to not allow open flames on the property. This could include limiting employees from bringing in scented candles or incense, as well as materials used for smoking.

2. Don’t Leave Cooking Appliances Unattended

Many companies have a break room with appliances that allow employees to cook or heat up food. Ensure that everyone knows not to leave these unattended when in use, just in case something should happen.

3. Regularly Maintain Machinery

One step you can take toward fire prevention at your company is to regularly maintain machinery. This will help ensure that everything is running correctly and allow you to repair or replace loose or frayed wires that could lead to a fire.

4. Have an Emergency Plan

It’s highly recommended to have an emergency plan in case your business experiences a fire. This plan should include the location of exits and fire extinguishers, as well as a meet up spot outside of the building in case of an evacuation. You may also want to include the number of a fire damage restoration service in case repairs need to be made after a fire.

5. Share Emergency Information With Personnel

One of the most important things you can do is share your fire plan with the staff. This way everyone knows what to do, and where to meet if the building needs to be evacuated.
When it comes to fire prevention as your business it’s important for keeping the staff and building safe. Avoid open flames and never leave a cooking appliance alone. You will also want to regularly inspect any machinery. It’s also a good idea to make an emergency plan and share it with any personnel.

Dealing With Storm Damage at Your Business Location

12/24/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ

There are many things to worry about when a serious storm leaves your building in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ, with resulting water damage and a possible tear out of structural materials. Understanding what could possibly happen can help soften the blow just a bit and prepare you for what you may find when you enter afterward.

What Damage you can Expect to Find

The type of storm damage can vary with the storm and severity, as well as the type of building you have. Brick, for instance, may withstand hurricane force winds better than a corrugated aluminum building. Here are some examples of flood damage you may find in your building.

• Ruined carpet, buckled wood floors and saturated subfloors
  
• Wet furnishings and curtains
  
• Possible outside debris, contamination and black mold
  
• Ruined electronics and computer equipment
  
• Sheet rock and other structural materials that may need removal
  
  

How To Clean the Mess

Most outside flood water is considered to be contaminated and a professional trained in flood cleanup and storm restoration should be brought in to carefully extract the water without spreading bacteria. They can help with the tear out of any ruined materials such as carpet or sheetrock, as well as cleanup of any salvageable items, and use industrial cleaners and drying techniques.
One of the greatest concerns can be black mold growth, so drying things out adequately is key. If things stay wet long enough for mold to set in, be prepared to engage in some reconstruction and remodeling in order to restore a clean and functional building. You may need to put dehumidification measures in place to keep moisture content under control.
Preparing your building in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ, ahead of time would be ideal, but when that is not possible, it can help to know what to expect. From storm cleanup to tear out, getting the help you need can help you restore order and get back to business as usual.

Explaining the Flood Cleanup and Restoration Process

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Flood damage in Adobe Hills, AZ

Floods can be a nightmare for any homeowner in Adobe Hills, AZ. Even a small amount of water can cause damage. If you don't respond quickly, you may not be able to salvage structural materials or personal items. Luckily, if you get in touch with a professional flood cleanup company, you can get relief. Whether the water damage occurs from a pipe burst, heavy rains, or the main water line break, the pros will clean and restore your home.

Why Call the Professionals?

It may be easy enough for you to take care of minor water issues such as a leaky pipe. However, when you notice damaged carpet, walls, ceilings and other materials, it's time to hire a team of water cleanup specialists. The pros can provide the following:

• Experience handling jobs of any size
  
• The right safety equipment
  
• The right tools to thoroughly clean up after flooding
  
• The knowledge and skills to restore damaged items
  
  

The Cleanup Procedure

The team will begin by assessing the flood damage and stopping the source of the incoming water. Technicians will repair a pipe burst or backed-up sewer line. Next, the crew will use pumps to remove the water and dry cleaning techniques to extract water. The team can clean carpets, furniture, clothing, electronics and documents.

Sanitizing

After removing all of the water, the crew will completely dry the entire area. This will diminish the chance of mold growth. Technicians will then disinfect any parts of the home that the flood affected.

Restoration

Unfortunately, crews may not be able to salvage all materials and items from your house. if a pipe burst or other problems get too much water on your drywall or other building materials, the cleanup team will tear them out and replace them.
When pipe burst or other problem on your property causes water damage, you can count on the pros to get your home back to normal. Specialists will clean, dry, sanitize and restore your living space.

Understanding the Fire Restoration Process

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Regardless of the amount of destruction, you will probably need to contact a fire restoration company to help restore and rebuild your home.

Understanding the Fire Restoration Process

Like any disaster, fires can lead to varying levels of damage, depending on the type, severity and location in the home. However, regardless of the amount of destruction, you will probably need to contact a fire restoration company to help restore and rebuild your home. These services typically follow the same three-step process for remediation:

1. Mitigation
2. Cleanup
3. Restoration
   

Mitigation
Unlike damage cleaning, mitigation is about limiting the amount of additional damage. Mitigating further losses involves protecting your property and helping to secure the approval of a potential insurance claim. These services generally include boarding up any unwanted openings, tarping any holes in the roof and possibly putting up fencing to limit access to vagrants and animals alike. Also, during this phase of remediation, the company you hire will probably evacuate any standing water.

Cleanup
The cleanup portion of fire restoration is typically centered on discarding debris and eliminating smoke damage. Therefore, the contracted service will begin by removing any items from the affected area and sorting them with the homeowner. This process is followed by a thorough examination of the structure and the sanitization of all affected rooms and appliances, including the HVAC system of the home.

Restoration
Once the home is properly cleaned and sanitized, the fire remediation team from Leisure World, AZ, begins the reconstruction or restoration phase. During this period, the home will be restored to its pre-disaster condition, meaning that there will be no remaining signs of the fire in the house. Once completed, families can move back to the property and hopefully move on.
Fire restoration is an involved process, and every reputable remediation company usually goes about the process the same way, utilizing the steps of mitigation, cleanup and restoration. Don't attempt a DIY repair after a fire. Look after your family and allow the specialists to come in and get your property in order. Professional services will bring you home again.

4 Things You Should Know About Mold

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage on a kitchen wall in Desert Uplands, AZ

4 Things You Should Know About Mold

Mold is a fungus that can grow in a variety of locations, including your home in Desert Uplands, AZ. If there has been water damage or high levels of humidity in your house, then it is possible you might have some black mold growing. The following is some helpful information about this pesky organism.

1. What Does Mold Look Like?
Mold can come in many colors, from black mold to green, and usually has a fuzzy appearance. Some varieties, however, may look a bit more slimy. Another common fungus you may find in your home is mildew. This is generally much easier to remove and can be distinguished from mold by its powdery appearance.

2. How Do You Know You Have an Infestation?
Sometimes, you can spot a mold growth easily, as it can cause discoloration on the surfaces of walls and other areas. If the fungus is growing in a more hidden location, such as behind walls and beneath flooring, it can be more difficult. In this case, the first sign might be a musty odor. You may need to have a professional inspection done to find it.

3. How Does It Spread?
Black mold travels via spores, which are not visible to the naked eye and can be found in most environments. When air circulates throughout your house, these spores can end up in multiple locations. Luckily, they are usually not a problem, until they have access to moisture.

4. How Can You Keep It From Coming Back?
After mold cleanup has been done, you will need to take some precautions to keep the fungus from returning. Have any water damage repaired as quickly as possible, and keep plumbing and pipes maintained to prevent leaks. A dehumidifier can remove moisture from the air.
If you suspect that there is mold growing in your house, you should have a mold remediation company inspect the building. They can locate any colonies and have the area thoroughly cleaned and sanitized without spreading the fungus further.

Mitigating Roof Damage From a Storm

11/16/2019 (Permalink)

Driving rain and forceful winds can wreak havoc on your roof in Sunland Villages, AZ. Mitigating (stopping or minimizing) the damage is critical in order to prevent a complete loss from resulting. Preventing roof damage can also prevent other damage within the ceiling and walls as well.

How Can You Mitigate Damage?

Reducing the level of roof damage is do-able in many cases. Following are a few suggested ways to accomplish that.

Cut away sections of the roof that are in danger of collapsing
Fasten tarps over the damaged area to keep wet weather out
Board up the area as needed to prevent looting or hail damage

Why is immediate Damage Reduction Important?

Taking measures to close up the roof and prevent further damage until repair and restoration can be done is critical. If efforts to accomplish this are not taken, the next wave of wind, rain or hail could cave the roof in, leak down through into the walls of the home, or cause wind damage requiring a complete replacement. You may need to contact your insurance carrier to report the damage. Make sure they document the storm event that caused the damage so there is no question later on.

Get Professional Help

Once initial steps have been taken to mitigate the damage, get help to assess and repair your roof as soon as possible. Choose a professional storm mitigation and restoration service in Sunland Villages, AZ, that can help make sure that your roof is restored up to local codes as well as to your high standards. Some areas that may require special attention are flashings, membranes and decking. They can also do what is needed to remove residual moisture form within your roof and attic, which can help prevent serious black mold growth.
In the event you experience roof damage due to a storm, take the needed steps to protect your roof and get the help you need as soon as possible. Following these guides can help you get a solid roof back over your head.

3 Types of Water Found in Commercial Floods

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning up after a storm in Mesa,AZ

Learn More About The 3 Types of Water You Might Encounter During Commercial Flooding

Floods create powerful water damage that can harm your business establishment unless you take quick action. However, not every case is the same. Each incident involves different types of water that a commercial building restoration company will handle in a specific manner. Make the restoration process faster and easier by learning more about the three types of water you might encounter during commercial flooding.

White Water

This type of water is also known as clean water because it is essentially free from any polluting agents. This water comes from sources where it avoids the most contaminants.

• Broken pipes
  
• Rainwater
  
• Melting snow
  
• Defective appliances
  
  

Even though this is the type of water least damaging to the building, it can still affect the structure and encourage the growth of mold and mildew. You can prevent this by ensuring the water is removed immediately and the affected area is properly dried.

Gray Water

Unlike white water, gray water does include some pathogens that make it more hazardous and more damaging to the structures and objects that touch it. This water may come from a flood started by a malfunctioning toilet, dishwasher or washing machine. Therefore, it may include soap, skin particles or food grease. Water damage caused by this type of liquid can be more difficult to repair and strongly impact anyone cleaning it. You or the people handling gray water may need special equipment to avoid contact.

Black Water

Perhaps the most dangerous kind of water, it includes more powerful contaminants and toxic chemicals, such as sewage matter, dirt, pesticides and bacteria. This water can be harmful to others and it can greatly damage and taint your building, your appliances and anything else in your business. Experienced restoration specialists can use safety gear and special equipment to clear the dangerous water and repair the location.
The fluids involved in flooding can vary in source and composition. From relatively harmless clear water to the foul black water, you may need to identify it to effectively save your Mesa, AZ business from water damage.

The Secret Language of Pipes

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Noisy pipes are generally a bad sign

Noisy pipes are generally a bad sign. Your best bet is to call a plumber in Sierra Estate, AZ, right away to address the problem before you end up with a pipe break and the need for a water damage remediation service. However, the type of noise can point you to what the source might be.

Banging

If you hear loud banging coming from your pipes, it could be the precursor to a pipe burst. It is generally an issue with water flow. Three common causes are:

• Water hammer- water traveling at high speeds will slam to a stop when valves or faucets are shut off suddenly.
• Trapped air- air bubbles in the pipes are forced out shortly after turning on a faucet.
• Uneven water pressure- can cause starts and stops that might make your pipes knock around.

Whistling

This noise indicates that the water flow is restricted by an obstruction. First you need to determine where it is coming from- which valve, hose or pipe? Start with everything off and turn each fixture or faucet on one at a time. Most commonly, whistling is caused by a distorted washer or loose screw within the valve. If that does not solve the problem, you may have a buildup somewhere further along in the pipe, which would need to be taken care of before a pipe break.

Humming

Your pipes will hum if your water pressure exceeds the tolerance level of your system. The humming sound comes from the pipes vibrating at a high rate of speed. This most often occurs in homes that use well water. You can have a professional come to check the pressure and make adjustments for you. However, if you know what you are doing, you can check the pressure at the tank yourself if you have well water. Make sure you take care of this quickly before you have to fix broken pipe.
Avoiding a pipe break can be easy if you keep your ears open and listen to your pipes are telling you. These noises might seem like a mystery, but before calling in the ghost busters, call a plumber!

How To Create a Basic Fire Safety Plan for Your Family

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

It is recommended to have a home fire drill twice a year

Fire preparedness can significantly affect your risk level for fire damage in your Red Mountain Ranch, AZ, home. This discussion may help you design a proper emergency escape plan for your family.

Creating Your Fire Readiness Plan

The focus of your family’s first fire safety meeting is to begin designing a fire escape plan that will allow everyone to evacuate the home quickly and safely if needed.


Walking the entire house with your family will allow you to note two door or window exits from each room.
Confirming that your house number is easily visible from the street will ensure emergency responders can find you.
Storing escape ladders in upper-story rooms will allow for window evacuations.
Setting a family meeting place, such as across the street, will allow you to quickly account for your family.
Posting a map that shows the outdoor meeting place and the escape routes for each room can be especially beneficial to children.


Once you have your fire escape plan, your local fire restoration specialist will generally be happy to review it and suggest provisions specific to your dwelling and family.

Testing Your Escape Plan

It is recommended to have a home fire drill twice a year, the first one being a daytime drill where everyone can practice with ladders and see routes clearly. You can follow that with a nighttime drill as escaping in the dark has different challenges. One way to have a drill is to let your family know it will happen at some point during the night, and then, in a couple of hours, press the test button on your alarm to start the drill. After a few drills, it can be helpful to stage a surprise drill to more closely replicate an actual emergency.

If your smoke alarms sound because of smoke or fire, you will want to evacuate your family quickly and safely. Without planning, this can be a chaotic process. Creating a home fire escape plan, and practicing it, prepares your family for a successful evacuation and allows you to focus on getting help as soon as possible.

Clearing Crawl Spaces of Mold

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

Reduce mold growth by keeping clean your rain spout

Your home in Adobe Hills, AZ, offers a secure, comfortable place to enjoy time with family, unwind from a long day and much more. The last thing you want is mold damage to invade your space. While most people typically focus on the areas of the home they can see to prevent mold growth, the crawlspace is an important but often overlooked part that is prone to this problem.

Crawl Spaces Are More than Their Name

Homes without a basement or constructed on a slab often have a crawlspace. Though not a living space, its main purpose is to ensure all the areas of the house are well-ventilated, as well as to provide access to vital home systems such as plumbing and electrical. Unfortunately, these spaces can easily become damp and forgotten, especially if there is flooding. The result may mean having to find mold remediation professionals for black mold cleanup.

Prevention Is Key

Instead of having to worry about mold damage and mold cleanup causing additional problems, homeowners can take proactive measures. Some ways to reduce mold growth in crawl spaces include:

• Ensure there are no cracks in the foundation.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clean and directed away from the house.
• Regularly check insulation for signs of sagging or damage.
• Install plastic sheeting across the crawl space to acts as a vapor barrier.
• Check ducts and plumbing for leaks.
• Direct dryer vents outside, not into the crawl space.
  

Blast the Mold Away

If your crawlspace does develop mold, the mold remediation can be tricky, especially with a well-established growth. A simple scrub down with mold-killing cleaners may not eradicate it. This kind of growth often requires using a surface blaster. Like its name, this process uses high pressure to blast tiny particles to clean the surface. To keep safety a priority, it is best to utilize a professional service for this method.
Although no homeowner wants to deal with mold damage, these common fungi have a way of making your home their own. With a little preventive maintenance and diligence, you can keep it at bay.

Avoid Damage From Broken Water Pipes

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

Broken water pipe in a Red Mountain Ranch, AZ building

Avoid Damage From Broken Water Pipes

Whether it is a large industrial building being built or a smaller commercial venture, the construction process has a lot of moving parts. Sometimes, things don't always go perfectly and problems develop. The plumbing system is one area that is prone to ruptures from heavy equipment. With water pipe repair, speed is of the essence and it makes sense to call in a local team of experts for commercial water repair. The experts can arrive on the scene quickly in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ, and get to work on the problem. The concept of Faster to any size disaster means the company will be on site in a short time and begin to fix the problem and limit damages.

Mitigate Water Damage

A broken pipe during construction complicates the job. It can cause the following problems:

• Water damage and ruined materials
  
• Construction delays
  
• Added expenses
  
• Cost overruns
  
• Insurance issues
  
• A damaged reputation
  
  

If the construction areas is flooded, it's important to make sure the water is removed in a professional manner. Therefore, it is crucial to work with a company that is experienced in water pipe repair. A reputable company can limit losses and speed up the cleanup process so things can get back on track.

Prevent Water Claims

As with many issues, prevention can be an effective way to prevent commercial water damage. A skilled construction company in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ, will know how to reduce the chances of the need for water pipe repair. The plans for the construction should be well thought out and reviewed by a team of engineers. While construction is underway, the project manager or quality control person should be on the lookout for any potential problems. Consistent inspections of the site should be undertaken every day. Finally, if a problem does occur, the project manager should know who to call to address the problem of water damage on site.

How to Prepare for a Storm

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Stock up on necessities

Tips To Help You Get Through a Storm

During severe weather in Desert Uplands, AZ, flood water can become a problem. Instead of just hoping for the best, you should be proactive in preparing your home and family for an emergency. Use the following tips to help you get through the storm.

1. Stock Up On Necessities

Storms bring with them a variety of problems, including power outages and flood water. Buy enough bottled water and ready-to-eat food to last the duration of the storm. Make sure you also have working flashlights and batteries.

2. Watch the News

Staying up to date on the emergency is an important part of preparation. It allows you to plan more effectively and determine the best way to move forward. You should also be sure to check for evacuation notices in case you need to leave your house and go somewhere safer.

3. Move Belongings to a Safe Place

If you think that you may end up with a flooded building, then you should move anything important to you to a safe area in the house. If your home has multiple levels, then moving items to a higher floor will often be enough. If you have a single-level house, put anything you can on shelves and in cabinets. Waterproof safes are a great option for important documents and small items.

4. Inspect Your House for Damage

If there is existing damage in your house, then it will be more vulnerable to potential water damage. Check the exterior for cracks and missing shingles as these can allow water to enter the roof and walls. Make sure that all of your doors and windows are properly sealed to keep out moisture.
Staying safe should be your priority, but do what you can to protect your home as well. If flood water has damaged your house, a water damage remediation company can perform mitigation and repairs to return it to its previous condition. They can also help salvage damaged belongings.

How Do You Prepare Your Business From a Fire?

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

A fire safety plan can be a useful element of disaster preparation

The Importance Of Fire Preparation

For business owners in Leisure World, AZ, disaster preparation is often valuable. Though many business owners know the importance of fire preparation, they are unsure of what steps to take. There are several steps you can take to ensure that your business is adequately prepared for a fire.

1. Maintain Updated Information About Inventory and Materials

Various parts of your building can be affected by fire damage, and many items may need to be restored or replaced. Generally, your insurance company should cover the most costs associated with restoration and replacement. However, if you aren't sure of the cost and number of items you had in your business prior to the fire, you may not receive adequate compensation. For this reason, it can be wise to document information about the inventory you have in your business, as well as information about costly materials or pieces of equipment.

2. Prepare Your Employees

During fire preparation, it's often important to ensure that your employees know what to do if a fire occurs. Making an escape plan from all locations in your building and routinely practicing your plan with employees can be a useful element of disaster preparation. It can also be helpful to make sure your employees know where fire extinguishers, first aid kits and emergency exits are located throughout your business.

3. Research Mitigation and Restoration Companies Prior to a Disaster
Before a fire affects your business, it can be useful to search for mitigation and restoration companies. When researching, it can be helpful to consider the benefits of employing a fire damage restoration company that offers both mitigation and restoration services, as this can help you to save time and money on cleanup and restoration. By researching companies before a fire, you won't feel rushed to hire a company you know little about after a disaster.

Fire preparation can ultimately help your business to recover in a more timely, efficient manner after a fire. In order to prepare for a fire, it can be helpful to keep updated information about inventory and materials, prepare your employees and research mitigation and restoration companies before a fire occurs.

Steps to Take After Storm Damage

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Schedule a building inspection for safety

3 Steps To Take After A Storm Hits Your Area

A powerful storm in Desert Uplands, AZ has the potential to create havoc at a commercial structure. If a building has sustained any roof damage, for instance, it is incredibly important to swiftly repair it. Here are three steps for a business owner to take after a storm has hit the area and has caused destruction to a company. (Remember that professionals who specialize in repairing storm damage are Here to Help and can assist tremendously.)

1. Assess the Destruction and Identify the Problem Areas

After a strong windstorm, safely entering and assessing the building for wind damage – including taking photos for an insurance adjuster – will be beneficial. Documenting the areas of the building that need immediate repair may help with the planning and execution of the restoration process. One area of the structure to pay very close attention to for wreckage is the roof. Any obvious signs of roof damage – including a collapsed ceiling or a tree that has fallen through the building – should be fixed immediately to help prevent subsequent issues such as flood damage. Additionally, keep an eye out for less-obvious signs, such as any small leaks in the ceiling inside the business. Even a minor leak in a roof could lead to major problems down the road.

2. Alert Employees

Alerting workers to the situation is vital. Employees who work at the company should not return to the building until it is verified safe to do so. Therefore, an employer may choose to alert their employees about the emergency at the company and offer solutions to help keep the business running smoothly, such as requesting that employees work from home temporarily, for example.

3. Schedule Repairs and a Building Inspection for Safety

Finally, it is imperative to schedule building repairs – including a roof rebuild if needed – and to have the building inspected for safety. An inspection can ensure that the office is structurally safe.
Destruction to a building, such as roof damage, can create a hazardous situation. However, if the above steps are followed, the company will be back in business quickly, “Like it never even happened.”

Anyone Can Fix a Leaky Toilet

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

A leaking toilet should be a top priority on your fix-it list

Toilets are one of the most important appliances in your home. Although not glamorous, they utterly transformed daily life in the American household. If you have a leaking toilet in Adobe Hills, AZ, what can you do to fix it?

Diagnose the Problem

You've probably already discovered water on your floor if you are concerned about a leaky, old toilet. So, where's the water coming from? Clean the water up, sit back and watch. You may have to flush the toilet to get it going. If you have already sustained water damage, be sure to research a remediation specialist, as well. Common sources of leaking are:

• wax gasket or loose bolts
• loose supply tube
• faulty shutoff valve
• cracked tank
  

Wax Gasket

If you confirmed the water is pooling underneath the leaking toilet, the most likely culprit is a degraded wax gasket. This is what provides a seal between the base of the toilet and the floor, so you will need to remove the toilet. Be sure to turn off the water and drain the toilet before doing so. Disconnect the supply tube and remove the bolts, then rock toilet back and forth to break the wax seal. Scrape off the old wax and check the flanges before installing the new wax ring.

Supply Tube

While your toilet repair is underway, you may also want to take a look at your supply tube. If you see a crack or have a copper tube, which can sometimes be chrome-plated, you may want to consider replacing it. Stainless-steel enmeshed polymer is the latest in tube technology, and will last you a lot longer. When replacing, be sure to apply a coating of pipe-join compound to ensure it is sealed tight. Now you can go ahead and put your toilet back into place.
A leaking toilet should be a top priority on your fix-it list. Even if you've never attempted plumbing repair before, it is very doable for the average homeowner.

4 Common Myths About Commercial Mold

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

You need to test your mold

Four Common Mold Myths

When it comes to commercial mold growth, it's important to separate fact from fiction. Here are four common mold myths you can erase from your mental inventory right now.

1. You Need To Test Your Mold

Being able to tell your cladosporium sphaerospermum from your ulocladium botrytis is unnecessary. All mold needs to be removed. There's also no such thing as a "safe" level of mold contamination. Having mold tested, therefore, is usually a superfluous — and expensive — process.

To be clear, mold testing and mold inspection aren't the same thing. Inspecting your commercial property regularly, particularly areas with high humidity or that have been subjected to water damage in the past due to flooding or plumbing problems, is a good way to prevent mold.

2. If You Can't Smell Mold, You Don't Have Mold

Mold is generally identified by an earthy, damp, or woodsy smell. Sometimes, however, mold has no detectable odor. Again, regular visual inspection of moisture-heavy areas of your property can help you identify mold growth even if your nose can't.

3. You Should Clean Mold With Bleach

Bleach doesn't kill mold spores. It's also toxic. Instead of dousing a mildewed sink with bleach and filling your break room with noxious fumes, a simple solution of two parts white vinegar to one part distilled water will remove most cases of mildew. For more substantial mold removal, it's usually best to contact a mold remediation company.

4. You Can and Should Remove Mold Yourself

Virtually all instances of mold removal are best handled by professionals, and here's why: You don't want the mold to come back. Mold remediation specialists have the experience and equipment to safely rid your building of mold and guard against future instances.

If you suspect you have mold growth at your Sunland Villages, AZ, property, it's best to keep a calm, level head. It doesn't have to be a catastrophe, especially if you enlist the help of trained professionals who can get your business back to normal ASAP.

Methods of Eliminating Tough Home Odors

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

Vinegar is also great for removing tough odors

Battling a lingering odor in your home in Mesa, AZ can be a challenge. Food, cigarettes, mold and pets are just a few sources of foul odors. You certainly don’t want to just cover one smell with another. Neutralizing the odor is the only way of getting rid of it completely. Fortunately, home deodorization can be fairly easy to accomplish.

Here Are Four Ways of Eliminating Tough Odors:

1. White Vinegar

Simmer white vinegar on the stove to remove odors from the kitchen, or even the whole house. Don’t worry, the vinegar smell will go away soon. You can also put a bowl of vinegar in individual rooms to absorb odors. Replace the vinegar every 24 hours until the odor is gone. Mix vinegar with water (two cups vinegar to one-gallon water) to clean carpet and fabrics such as sofa and curtains, as well as hard surfaces such as furniture and walls. Vinegar is also great for removing tough odors such as cigarette smoke from clothing; add half a cup to your laundry.

2. Baking Soda

Like vinegar, baking soda will absorb odors if placed in bowls throughout the house. For fabrics and carpet, sprinkle it all over and let it sit for an hour, then vacuum. For better effectiveness, rub into the surface.

3. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is another inexpensive home deodorization method. It’s chemically treated to hold more oxygen than regular charcoal, making stubborn odors easier to absorb. Hanging granule-filled sachets around the house works well.

4. Ozone Generator

This is the most costly and labor-intensive method, so it should be a last resort. But if you have a really stubborn odor like stale cigarette smoke, it’s worth the extra effort and expense. It can take over 24 hours to deodorize an entire house, but it’s effective.
If the odor you’re fighting hangs on for more than a couple of days, it may be time to hire odor removal and deodorization professionals. They provide the most thorough home deodorization available.

Facts Every Company Owner Should Know About Business Insurance

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Protecting your Mesa, AZ, business from fire, flooding and other disasters with commercial insurance is probably a high priority for you.

Protecting your Mesa, AZ, business from fire, flooding and other disasters with commercial insurance is probably a high priority for you and one of the most effective ways to guard your investment. However, if you only recently stepped into the world of entrepreneurship, you may not be familiar with business insurance or how to purchase a policy that suits your company’s needs. Before you sign on with an agent, you may want to first understand some important facts about coverage so you can make the best policy choices possible. 

3 Facts About Business Insurance

1. Location Matters 

When you first start to browse insurance for your business, it is important to consider the building’s location. Crime rate, the availability of fire crews and possible flood risk may all be factors in what you pay for your policy. For example, if your building is in an area at or near sea level or near a large body of water that is capable of flooding, your policy may be costlier than one for a building with a lower risk. 

2. Consider Your Building’s Construction

The overall construction of your building can affect the details of any commercial insurance policy you are offered. If you have only recently purchased a building and want to make some improvements and additions, it is important to discuss them with your insurance agent first. Using flame-retardant material and having your building’s fire risk gauged by a fire damage and restoration company can lower the cost of your premiums. 

3. Employment Risks May Affect Premiums 

The type of business you run may affect the type of coverage available to you. For example, if your employees perform high-risk work with machinery, such as a deli, you may need to buy additional insurance to cover them as well as the building. You may want to let your agent know about any possible dangers so you can purchase coverage that suits you. 

Finding the right commercial insurance for your Mesa, AZ, business can be a challenge. However, when you understand a few basic facts about how to find the right policy, you can have peace of mind that your building and property are covered. 

3 Ways Landscaping Can Protect Your Home From Storms

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Using heavier types of mulch can withstand the rain and help to prevent flooding

Ways you Can Use Landscaping to Protect Your Home

Outside flooding can cause damage to the exterior and interior of your home in Sierra Estate, AZ. However, there are several ways you can use landscaping to prevent your home from being affected by storms.

1. Use Heavy Mulch

Many people aren't aware that the type of mulch in their yards will have an impact on how floodwater will affect their homes. However, the weight of the mulch that you use in your landscape can make a big difference. Shredded wood mulch and other types of lightweight mulches are easily swept away by excessive amounts of rains and won't help to limit the impact of a rain storm on your home. Using heavier types of mulch, however, such as stone mulch or hardwood mulch, can withstand the rain and help to prevent flooding.

2. Plant a Rain Garden

In addition to mulch, certain types of plant life in your landscape can also help to protect your home from outside flooding. Many homeowners find it beneficial to plant a rain garden, a garden that is made up of a variety of plants that can absorb excessive amounts of water. Willow trees, various types of shrubs and lilies are just a few plants that are able to quickly absorb larger amounts of water, and you can customize your landscape based on the climate in your area and your personal preferences.

3. Divert Your Rain Spouts

Rainspouts can increase the likelihood of flooding or can help to protect your home from flooding depending on the direction. If your rainspouts are directed straight down or toward your home, then the foundation and structure of your home can be impacted. When the structure of your home is affected by water damage, you may consider contacting emergency water damage restoration services. However, you can often prevent rain drainage from impacting your home by diverting your spouts away from your home.

In addition to being visually appealing, your landscape can also have a functional purpose. Using heavy mulch, planting a rain garden and diverting your rain spouts are helpful ways to protect your home from outside flooding.

A Landlord’s Guide to an Apartment Fire

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in Mesa, AZ.

A fire in your Mesa, AZ, apartment building is an event that causes panic and confusion for you as well as tenants. There are many questions about rebuilding and who is responsible for the losses and cost of cleanup. The following steps will help guide you through the process of rebuilding after your apartment fire.

Rebuilding after your appartment fire

1. Contact Your Insurance Company

The immediate first step to take is to call your insurance company. You need to file a claim and get details about exactly what your policy covers. You will likely be dealing with upset tenants, some who may not have renter’s insurance, and they will have questions about whether your insurance covers fire damage related to their property. Unfortunately, a landlord’s insurance policy won’t cover tenant possessions, so they should be directed to contact their own insurance agent or the Red Cross, if needed.

2. Obtain Detailed Information on Fire Cause

Stay in contact with the fire department or investigators, and interview all tenants. The cause of the apartment fire is important for insurance purposes, possible criminal prosecution and preventing future problems. If you find any new information related to its cause, contact the fire investigator and your insurance agent immediately. If a tenant has directly caused the fire, your insurance company will be able to work with you to obtain payment from that resident.

3. Call a Restoration Company

It’s important to contact a competent fire restoration company. They will know the best way to salvage items, limit further damage and contact companies who can start rebuilding quickly. They also can help you navigate the insurance company and its role in paying for repairs. It’s important to contact professionals, as a fire causes damage to a building’s structure and is a huge liability if not repaired correctly.
An apartment fire is an unforeseen event that can seem overwhelming. However, if you contact your insurance company and a professional fire restoration team, they will help you manage the process and rebuild. It will leave your Mesa, AZ, property “Like it never even happened."

Black Water due to Storms in Mesa, AZ

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

Give SERVPRO a call if you experience water damage in your home or business.

Black Water: Risks and Solutions

Storms in Mesa, AZ can cause a variety of costly problems for homeowners. Water damage from flooding is particularly common after a strong storm. Rivers and sewers can overflow, which unfortunately, can seep into your home. Damage from water in general causes a host of issues, such as wood swelling, carpet damage, and loss of furnishings. Black water, however, is particularly dangerous because of damage to the occupants as well as the home.

How Black Water Is Different

This type of water is different from other flood waters because it has come into contact with sewage. Contamination from sewage can make flood waters exceptionally hazardous. Several types of microbes can be found in this type of flooding, such as viruses, protozoans, fungi, and invasive molds. 

What Actions To Take

When dealing with water damage that contains sewage, it can be important to take the right steps to prevent health problems and lasting damage to the home. First of all, stay away from the contaminated water. Avoiding contact is the best way to prevent health issues. Even breathing the air close to the water can be problematic. 

Next, it can be a good idea to contact your insurance to see what kind of coverage is available. Finally, to ensure the health risks and damage to the home are limited as much as possible, it’s often best to call a professional. Professionals are familiar with the relevant standards for dealing with this kind of damage. 

Where To Find Help

If you have the unfortunate situation in which you must deal with contaminated water, know that there are risks that make this type of flooding uniquely problematic. Luckily, there are also solutions. A water damage professional can remove the contaminated water, prevent mold, remove microbes, rehabilitate carpets, and most importantly, restore health and peace of mind to your home. 

Conserve Water and Save Money on Commercial Properties

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Fix water leaks

Conserve Water and Save Money

Paying attention to water issues throughout your commercial properties is a good way to reduce costs. As you learn to cut down on water consumption, you may realize valuable savings on your monthly utility bills. One of the first steps in this effort is to recognize the many ways water is used throughout your property:

• Drinking
  
• Irrigation
  
• Cleaning
  
• Air conditioning
  
• Restrooms
  
  

Fortunately, there are several good ways to conserve water, reduce water consumption, and keep your utility bills in check.

Fix Water Leaks

One easy and beneficial way to cut down on the amount of water consumed throughout your property is to fix dripping faucets and other leaks. Not only do these leaks resulted in higher levels of consumption, but they also lead to water damage. Repairing leaks and immediately addressing similar water issues also results in financial and energy savings.

Reduced Hot Water Consumption

Another powerful way to conserve water is to reduce hot water use. Switch out appliances in your Adobe Hills, AZ, commercial properties for energy-efficient models and install low-flow fixtures. If there are dishwashers on your property, consider installing a booster heater because these appliances go a long way toward reducing energy costs.

Low-Flow Toilets

The toilet is a consistent source of water consumption, so any efforts you make to conserve in this area can have significant results. The first low-flow toilets seemed to cut down on water use but lost a lot of efficiency, sometimes resulting in repeated flushing. Fortunately, you'll find that modern toilets offer a water upgrade that is both conservational and efficient.

Understanding how water is consumed throughout your property is one of the best steps in responding to water issues that lead to waste and cause spikes in your utility bill. Other steps include fixing leaks, reducing hot water use, and replacing toilets. Water damage restoration professionals may provide more insights, especially when damages have made renovations possible.

Important Steps to Take After Water Damage

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Turn off the electricity to the home

3 Steps to Consider Taking After Experiencing Water Damage

Water damage to a residence in Desert Uplands, AZ, may cause some major headaches for a homeowner. Whether there is a leak in the roof, a pipe that has burst, an overflowing toilet, or another problem that has resulted in a flood, there are important steps to take to ensure that there are no further issues such as the growth of black mold. Here are three important steps to consider taking after experiencing water damage at a home.

1. Turn Off the Electricity to the Home

Whenever water has leaked in a residence and has caused flooding, it may be a good idea to turn off the electricity. Regardless of where a leak has occurred, it is possible that electrical outlets or wiring may be nearby. It is crucial for an individual to protect himself or herself from being electrocuted.

2. Thoroughly Clean and Dry the Affected Area

A flood at a home can cause significant damage, and it may even lead to additional secondary damage if the water is not properly cleaned and dried up. For example, black mold may grow in areas in which water has not been correctly dried out. Mold thrives in environments that are damp and have high humidity, and it can grow quickly when the conditions are right. Calling professionals who are experienced in handling and cleaning up water damage may be a perfect solution. Experts in water cleanup can treat the flooded area with chemicals that can help to prevent secondary damage such as mold, which can be detrimental to the structural integrity of the home.

3. Repair Damage as Soon as Possible

After water damage has been appropriately cleaned up, it is vital to repair the issue that caused the flood as soon as possible. If a leaky roof or a broken pipe has caused the water damage for example, having these issues repaired immediately can help to prevent the problems from happening again. Following these three steps may help to significantly reduce the chance of incurring secondary damage, particularly the growth of black mold.

3 Important Steps in the Mold Remediation Process

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Mold remediation in a Leisure World, AZ home

Three Steps During the Mold Remediation Process

If your home in Leisure World, AZ, has been affected by mold contamination, you may be uncertain what will happen next. During mold remediation, it is likely that the following three steps will occur:

1. Assessment

Mold can have a widespread impact on homes, and an assessment can help to determine the amount of damage that has occurred and can identify what type of mold is present in the home. Different types of mold are often treated differently, which is why an assessment by mold remediation professionals can be useful. Additionally, professionals can search for hidden damage that may be affecting the home. Once all areas that have been affected by mold have been identified and experts know what type of mold is in the home, the next step in the remediation process can begin.

2. Containment

Mitigating the effects of mold damage can help to reduce the cost of the overall remediation process for homeowners. Containing mold is often a crucial step during mold remediation. In order to prevent mold contamination throughout the home, various methods are used to contain the spores. In some circumstances, a physical barrier is put in place to lessen the spread of mold. Airflow is also often reduced in the home by turning off air conditioning and heating systems.

3. Removal and Restoration

Only after the home has been assessed and mold has been contained can the process of mold removal and home restoration begin. There are various methods professionals can use to ensure that mold is removed and does not return. Different types of treatments can remove mold from building materials and personal belongings. In order to remove the majority of mold spores in an area, high-powered air filters can also be useful. Once harmful mold spores have been removed, the home is restored to its original state and professionals will perform structural and cosmetic fixes.

Restoring a home affected by mold contamination can seem overwhelming. However, knowing what mold remediation involves can help you feel less stressed and more confident about the process.

Proper Maintenance of Your Furnace May Prevent a House Fire

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Keep your furnace maintained

Today is the age of set it and forget it technology. Many modern conveniences require minimal or no upkeep, but your furnace is not one of those. People in Sunland Villages, AZ may not realize it, but your home’s furnace does require a few steps to ensure it works safely and efficiently. A little furnace cleaning is nothing compared to the distress that fire cleaning can be.

How to Maintain Your Home Furnace

This is a basic list of steps that should be taken to keep a furnace operating safely. Be sure to read the owners manual to ensure you are taking all needed steps.

• When it comes to preventing a fire cleaning the unit of any dust may be your best defense
  
• Change filters regularly to minimize dust buildup
  
• Be sure to have your heating and cooling units serviced by professionals each year before using
  
• Lubricating the motor and adjusting the belts is critical to smooth operation
  
• Adjust the thermostat to a comfortable level and test it to make sure that it does come on at that temperature
  
  

Keep a Careful Watch

Gas and flames are nothing to take for granted. In addition to preventive measures, take notice if you see or smell any signs of trouble. If your furnace is producing a strong gas smell, get all family members out of the house, leaving windows and doors open - call the gas company immediately. If it fails to come on at the designated setting, you may need to have it calibrated. If, for some reason the furnace is not turning on at all, the power switch may have failed or a fuse may have gone out and may require attention.

If, in spite of your good efforts, a fire should happen get out of the house and call 911 at once. Then you may wish to call on an emergency fire damage restoration service in Sunland Villages, AZ to help with the fire cleaning process. Smoke cleaning can be difficult and fire tech may be the best choice

Do You Know the Difference Between Flood Damage and Storm Damage?

5/11/2019 (Permalink)

Knowing the difference between flood damage and storm damage can help you seek assistance from the proper authority

Your insurance company can use different classifications of damage to rate the problems your business experiences when storm damage or floodwaters hit your company in Mesa, AZ. By using different categories, the company can limit or expand the coverage owed to you — sometimes based solely on one word. Here is a brief explanation of the differences between flood damage and storm problems.

Floodwater Damage

In order to establish and regulate the definition of flooding, FEMA set forth a legal definition that is used by most insurance companies. When processing claims, your insurance company will often make the following distinctions regarding floodwaters:

• Floodwater is a temporary condition caused by an inundation of mud or water that covers at least 2 acres of land that under normal circumstances is dry.
  
• Floodwater can come from both outside sources and from rising groundwaters.
  
• A business, renters, or homeowners policy may cover flood damage from a storm that will not be covered under FEMA’s flooding criteria.
  
  

Raging Storm Damage

Storm damage, as defined under insurance policies, can often be much broader than floodwater damage. As with floodwaters, there is a list of qualifications that need to be met for the claim to be successful. If your business has a policy pertaining to damage from storms, it generally includes the following:

• Damage during a storm that affects a building’s windows, roof, or structure will typically be covered.
  
• Damage resulting from forceful winds that drive rain into a building are usually covered.
  
• Businesses that experience severe weather causing broken pipes to flood the structure will normally be covered.
  
• Interruptions to business operations as a result of natural disasters such as wildfires, lightning, and heavy winds are often covered.
  
  

Knowing the difference between flood damage and storm damage can help you seek assistance from the proper authority. Also, having a water remediation team on speed-dial can help you get your business open quickly, no matter what type of storm hits you.

Fire Damage Equals Water and Smoke Damage

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

A damaged home in Mesa, AZ

If you have a fire in your home in Mesa, AZ, the blaze will burn up anything in its path, but after the inferno is put out, there will be more to worry about than just fire damage. Water damage and smoke damage also occur, and their effects can destroy many of your belongings.

Consider the impact of water and smoke damage as you begin plans for your post-fire cleanup.

Water Damage

Firefighters will use multiple gallons of water per minute spraying from a fire hose or multiple hoses to put out the flames. This means your home and its contents in the area of the fire will become waterlogged, just as if your home were flooded. Quickly ridding your home of that standing water will require special equipment, such as sump pumps.

It’s also important to dry out your belongings as soon as possible. There are a few reasons for this, but the long-term concern is preventing mold from growing. However, you also need a dry area to avoid electrical shock hazards. You cannot begin to rebuild until you have all the fire damage cleaned up and dried out.

3 Tips for Preventing Mold

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Mold growth can occur in 24-48 hours after materials are saturated with water

Three Main Ways to Prevent Fungus

When a leak causes water damage in your commercial building in Adobe Hills, AZ, you have enough to worry about. Don’t add a mold problem to your list of issues to resolve. There are three main ways to prevent fungus growth in your building.

1. Timely Mitigation

A busted pipe is not something you want to ignore. As soon as you know you have damage from excess water or flooding, you need to call your local certified remediation experts to assess the problem and restore your property to its former state. Mold growth can occur in 24-48 hours after materials are saturated with water, so fast mitigation is the key to avoiding secondary damage.

2. Moisture Management

Because mold cannot grow without moisture, keeping a strict management system in place can prevent growth. Have your building inspected to identify areas where water damage is likely and fix the problems that could lead to it. Coordinate with a landscape designer to direct water flow away from your building. Make sure you have a working sump pump in the building’s basement to help with any flooding that may occur. Increase the ventilation and airflow throughout the building to keep everything drier.

3. Resistant Upgrades

If your region tends to be humid, you may want to invest in upgraded materials. Even if the weather is dry, you can use mold-resistant drywall and paint in certain areas of your building such as your restrooms or break rooms that may be more prone to water leaks. Old windows can be replaced to lessen condensation and thus aid in mold prevention.

Fungus thrives in wet environments, so preventing mold can be as easy as denying it sustenance. If you clean up water damage as fast as you can, keep moisture levels low throughout your building and upgrade to mold-resistant materials wherever possible, you may be able to avoid mold altogether.

What Can I Do To Dry My Documents?

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Water restoration in a Red Mountain Ranch, AZ office

How to Treat Wet Documents

If water makes its way into your Red Mountain Ranch, AZ, office, your paperwork could be among the first items to suffer damage. While you can replace carpet, drywall and even electronics, you may have a more difficult time replacing paper documents. It’s not impossible to completely dry and salvage these important items. You just need to know how to properly treat wet documents.

What To Watch Out For

There’s a wide variety of materials that can fall prey to water issues in your building. With the right methods, you can dry and restore any of these.

• Files
  
• Books
  
• Magazines
  
• Maps
  
• X-rays
  
• Photographs
  
• Blueprints
  
  

The Most Prudent Care

If you aren’t gentle with your documents, the document drying process will be futile. You can completely destroy these items if you don’t treat them properly. This is why the best course of action is to contact an experienced document cleaning professional to safely dry your papers and other materials.

Using Technology

The team will respect your items and understands how severe flooding and water damage can harm paper and other documents. A skilled company will use freeze-drying techniques to dry the wet items. This is one of the most effective ways to ensure a safe and complete process.

Comprehensive Process

In addition to drying wet documents, the crew will also make sure it’s clean and free from any harmful substances or materials. Because any water may have left dangerous residue or bacteria, the technician will use gamma irradiation to sanitize the paperwork.

Trustworthy

The best companies have years of experience practicing these techniques and giving companies back their documents intact. The pros are accustomed to drying wet documents of all sizes and with different levels of damage.

Don’t let floods ruin your important materials. There are ways to dry all sorts of paperwork and other materials. One of smartest moves you can make is to call the professionals.

3 Risks of Driving Through Flood Water

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Think twice about driving through a flooded street

Many of us wouldn’t think twice about driving through a flooded street. After all, what harm can a little H2O do? Fact is, it can do much more damage than you think. Not convinced? Here are a few more reasons why driving through flood water in Sierra Estate, AZ, is never a good idea.

About Flood Water

Flash floods are common in areas that are low-lying, but they can happen anywhere that rapid rainfall accumulates. If you doubt the power of flood water, understand that

• It takes just a foot of water to make your car float
  
• It takes just two feet of water to make the average SUV float
  

Engine Failure

Car engines aren't meant to be immersed in water. If flood waters are high enough, your engine can do something called hydro locking. This happens with water penetrates the combustion chamber, stopping your vehicle from running and killing your electrical system. That means a stalled car in a flood - not a good thing.

Brake Failure

If your engine doesn't stall out in a flooded street, your brakes just might. That's because your brake components were meant to operate under dry conditions. Water can make it difficult or impossible for brake pads to contact rotors causing you to lose control of your car.

Being Swept Away

Swift-moving water is a force to be reckoned with. It can not only float your car but pick it up and moved down the road! This could leave you colliding with debris or even other vehicles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that the majority of flood-related drownings come after someone drove into a flood.

Driving through a flooded street might not seem like a big deal, but it can become one fast. Never underestimate how danger flooded areas can be. Keep these flood travel tips from storm cleanup experts in mind the next time you think about taking on flooded roads.

Escape Plan Special Circumstances

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

It's important to have a Fire Escape Plan to ensure safety for your family and loved ones. Are you ready?

Special Considerations When Creating a Fire Escape Plan

If you’re one of these homeowners, don’t stress – it’s never too late to start thinking about fire safety in Mesa, AZ. These tips can help you ensure your emergency escape plan is a good one so you can keep your family as safe as possible.

Assigning Assistance

Some members of your home may not be able to follow the plan of their own accord. Be sure to assign another family member to these individuals during the escape. You may need to assign helpers to:

• Infants and toddlers
• Elderly family members
• Pets

Dealing With Security Measures

If your home has security bars or locks, be sure they have an emergency release that’s easy to use in the event that a disaster arises. This could save you a few crucial seconds during your escape.

If you have any questions, please give us a call at (480) 835-6688.

SERVPRO of Mesa East has the training and experience necessary to keep your family, loved ones and belongings safe. 

Can You Prepare Your Business for Flood Damage?

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

Is your business prepared for Flood Damaged?

Having procedures in place to orchestrate recovery from a catastrophe is something that businesses often overlook.

Even if your business isn’t located in a flood zone, it’s possible to experience flood damage. Here are some suggestions to help you plan for the before and after of a flooding incident.

Assess Your Risk

The location of your business affects how you’ll prepare for the possibility of a flood. A number of conditions can cause flooding to occur or increase its likelihood:

• Those located in low-lying areas and along coasts are at particular risk
• Too much rain for the ground to absorb can cause flooding, whether occurring in a short time or over a longer period
• Excess rain or snowmelt can affect levees, dams or sewage systems, causing breaches or overflows

Develop Your Plan

Once risk has been evaluated, you can choose strategies that seem most appropriate considering your circumstances. Some are preventive in nature while others are designed to assist in establishing normal operations after a flood. Use this list of ideas to spark discussions about plan elements that are suitable for your business and environment:

• Determine an evacuation plan for your facility in the event of a catastrophic event
• Stock an emergency preparedness kit that includes a battery-operated or crank radio and water
• Maintain a data backup routine and store backups in multiple off-site locations
• Decide if adding flood insurance provisions to existing coverage is warranted
• Consider whether purchasing business interruption insurance is a worthwhile expense
• Identify companies in Mesa, AZ, that can respond quickly to repair flood damage, including remediation of black water encroachment

Planning for contingencies is an important part of running any company. Anticipate the effects of flood damage that your business might experience and develop a roadmap for recovery. Doing so can let you return to serving your customers with less disruption than you may experience without advance preparation.

How the Right Restoration Team Can Help With Your Insurance Issues

3/24/2019 (Permalink)

Contact a team of commercial storm professional to inspect your building

It’s not uncommon for major storms to roll through Leisure World, AZ, and affect people and their places of work. Not only do you have to make sure you and everyone are safe, but you also have a potentially massive storm restoration effort to worry about. This process involves both a cleanup team and your insurance company. Sometimes, one of the parties holds up the other; however, if you get the right response team on the job, your insurance provider should follow suit.

Your Obligations

Of course, you never want to imagine flood damage in your office. Unfortunately, this can be a reality, so it’s essential that you act quickly. Once you detect flooding, you need to do the following:

• Safely exit your building.
  
• Stay away from the water, especially any black water.
  
• Contact a team of commercial storm restoration professionals to inspect your building.
  
• Contact your insurance provider to report the incident and start the claims process.
  
  

What Happens Next?

The storm response team will assess how extensive the damage is in your office. This will help the company come up with an appropriate plan and determine what it can save and what items and portions of the facility it must replace and restore. During the time, the team will take photos of the building and the areas that it must attend to. You should then get a hold of these photos and documentation and provide them to your insurance company.

Potential Hang-Ups

If a restoration company response to your needs slowly, this could hinder the insurance process. Your provider won’t want to commit to covering damages until a cleanup crew begins its assessment.

The Advantages of Working With the Best

A responsive, professional restoration team will help speed up the insurance coverage. The two entities will work together well, thus helping you get the financial peace of mind you need.

There are many reasons to call an experienced, reliable storm restoration company. Get the right team on the case, and you’ll notice that things will go more smoothly with the insurance provider as well.

How To Replace a Toilet

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

Leaking toilet in a Sunland Villages, AZ home

How To Replace a Toilet

Toilet repair may fix a leak, but a homeowner should replace a persistently leaking toilet. Restoring water damage is far more expensive than the cost of replacing an old toilet. Here is an overview of how to replace a toilet.

Remove the Tank and Bowl

Start by removing water from the bowl and tank. There are several effective methods:

• Turn off the water supply
  
• Flush the toilet
  
• Absorb water in the tank with a sponge or solidifying gel
  
• Disconnect the water supply line
  
  

Once the bowl and tank are dry, unscrew the nuts on the base of the tank and lift off the tank. Loosen the nuts that connect the bowl to the floor and remove the bowl.

Remove the Closet Bolts and Wax Ring

Once the old toilet is gone, remove and dispose of the wax ring. Scrape excess wax off the flange with a putty knife and remove the closet bolts. This is a good opportunity to repair flange damage to avoid a new leaking toilet.

Install the New Toilet

You will need to replace all of the components removed with the old toilet. Go through the same process in reverse:

• Install new closet bolts
  
• Apply a new wax ring to the bottom of the bowl
  
• Place the bowl over bolts and install cap bases, washers and nuts
  
• Shorten bolts with a hacksaw and snap on caps
  
• Install bolts and a rubber gasket on the bottom of the tank
  
• Put the tank in place and tighten nuts
  

Once the new toilet is installed, you can reconnect the supply line. Flush the toilet and check for any signs of leaks.

Homeowners who are not familiar with basic plumbing techniques or do not have the necessary tools may want to hire a plumber. If a leaking toilet has caused damage, contact a damage mitigation and restoration service in Sunland Villages, AZ.

3 Reasons To Hire Certified Environmental Hygienists for Testing

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Black mold? You must have it tested by a professional.

3 Reasons To Hire Certified Environmental Hygienists for Testing

When you need remediation in Mesa, AZ, it's important to hire the right people for the job. The mold cleaning process involves more than just removing mold growth from your home. Before and after the job is done, you need someone to test to determine the extent of the problem and whether the problem has been resolved after cleanup is done. A certified environmental hygienist is the person for the job. Here are three reasons to expect that the person testing for mold in your home meets the standards of certification.

1. Education

Most certified hygienists have studied their field extensively. Typically, they have completed a bachelor's degree in one of the following sciences:

• Chemistry
  
• Engineering
  
• Physics
  
• Biology
  
  

In addition to their formal education from an accredited college or university, certified mold remediation technicians take courses and pursue continuing education in subjects that are specifically related to their career path. This is how they stay current on the newest technology and techniques in the industry.

2. Experience

The best way to learn proper mold cleaning is with experience. Certification implies that the assessment in your home is not the first time the technicians have ever encountered a mold problem. Mentorships and professional networking are a vital part of learning the trade. Under the direct tutelage of a seasoned expert, even newly certified hygienists gain the experience necessary to test effectively.

3. Examination

After the coursework for the initial certification is complete and the minimum experience requirement has been met, technicians must pass a certification exam before they are considered an expert in testing for mold damage. The exam covers a broad scope of the industrial hygiene industry's latest practices. You can hire a certified environmental hygienist with the peace of mind that they have been trained, tested and found competent.

To determine if you need mold cleaning in your home, you must have it tested by a professional. Certified environmental hygienists have passed the test proving that they have the necessary education and experience to assess the problem accurately.

SERVPRO: Helping Insurance Agents Through the Claims Process

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Helping Insurance Agents Through the Claims Process

There is a new way to research an insurance claim, and it is being offered to insurance agents through one of the highest rated disaster restoration firms in the Sierra Estate, AZ, area. SERVPRO has created a claims database to help restructure the approach to claims research. The system helps agents quickly and efficiently appraise claims to help move the approval process along.

1. Claims Information Center

The Claims Information Center or the CIC is a collection of claims information for any insurance agent performing research. Agents can research by the type of claim or the cause of loss and find regional and localized information, helping them better prepare their assessment.

2. Claims Database

The actual database used by the CIC system is ReportER. When an insurance claim or estimate is created, it is uploaded into the system where it can be monitored by the insurer as it progresses from an estimate to a work in progress and finally a completed job. All of this information is accessible through the Managed Dashboard.

3. Management Dashboard

The Managed Dashboard is an agent’s way of keeping tabs on claims and ensuring that progress is being made. The dashboard also acts as the entry point into the CIC system, allowing insurers to research and compare different estimates and outcomes.

The insurance claim process can be complicated for agents. They are having to juggle multiple claims every day and having to research those claims to ensure accuracy. SERVPRO has created the Claims Information Center that utilizes the ReportER database to help agents prepare and rectify claims. While the research alone makes this tool priceless, it is the managed dashboard where agents will find the most use. This dashboard allows them to organize claims by the level of completion and helps them to organize their research. The CIC system truly helps to make a difficult process tolerable.

3 Tips to Prepare for High Winds

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

Inspect your property for trees that need trimming

Whether from a winter storm or a summer deluge, high winds are one of the most potentially damaging parts of any storm. Able to turn simple waste bins into high-speed missiles, storm winds can be responsible for excessive property damage and even injury. If you’re wondering how to prepare your Adobe Hills, AZ, property for the risks of storm or hurricane damage, read on for tips that can save you money and stress.

Defining High Wind

Determining what constitutes high wind isn’t simple. The National Weather Service has tried to make it easier. Per NWS:

• Winds 15 to 25 mph are considered “breezy”
  
• Winds above 25 mph are considered “windy”
  
  

In general, gusts falling into the windy category warrant taking the following steps.

Secure Your Property’s Exterior

Wind can easily pick up loose items outside and launch them into a building or person. Invest in wind shutters or cover windows with plywood in a pinch if gales are anticipated. Secure items like gas tanks and water heaters to prevent them from becoming projectiles.

Secure Your Interior

It’s easy but unwise to forget about the inside of your property when preparing for hurricane damage. Anchor large furniture like bookcases and cabinets that can fall over. Use Velcro or straps to secure computers or other fragile electronics.

Inspect Your Property

One of the best tips is to inspect your property well in advance of storm season, when you have the most time to make changes. Inspect your property for trees that need trimming or removal; trees with loose root systems can easily tip over in strong gusts. Have your roof inspected to ensure there are no loose tiles or shingles that can be dislodged amid winds.

High winds can pose a high risk. Be ready. Use these tips to reduce the risk of storm or hurricane damage and contact a storm cleanup specialist to handle any damage you do incur.

Using an Ozone Machine To Counteract Cigarette Odor

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

An ozone generator is used for home deodorization

Using an Ozone Machine To Counteract Cigarette Odor

Smoking cigarettes indoors can cause a lot of problems. Not only can it be a fire hazard, it can also envelop your home in a stale odor that is hard to remedy. Getting rid of the smell is not completely impossible, though. A professional smoke remediation company may use an ozone machine for home deodorization. The molecules attach to smoke particles and neutralize them. Within a few steps, the odor can be gone.

1. Machine Placement

An ozone generator is placed in the area that needs remediation. If the whole house is plagued by the smell, it may be placed in a central location. Because ozone is heavier that regular air, technicians in Desert Uplands, AZ, will likely place the machine on the second story of a two-story home. Once the machine is placed, it can be started.

2. Air Flow Assistance

If only one room needs home deodorization, the room can be sealed so that the ozone stays in the affected area. If the whole house needs treatment, however, air flow must be created so the ozone can infiltrate your entire home. Specialists may use fans, your central air system ducts or a combination of the two to make sure the ozone reaches all the places it needs to reach.

3. Treatment Completion

The treatment for cigarette smoke in your home may take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the size of the affected space. Once it is complete, the machine is turned off, and the ozone is allowed to dissipate, which can take several hours. Once that happens, you and your family can return to your home.

The process of home deodorization is pretty straightforward but usually requires professional help. Enlisting certified experts to take care of your cigarette odor issues can improve the smell of your home and help everyone who enters breathe cleaner, fresher air.

Quickly Discovering the Cause of a Shower Leak Can Prevent Major Damage

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Bathtub leaking in a Sunland Villages, AZ home

A leaking shower is more than just a minor annoyance – let go, it can become a structural nightmare. You should always check things out at the first sign of a bathtub leak to avoid a disastrous situation from occurring in your home in Sunland Villages, AZ. A leaking shower could be anything from loose joints in the pipes to a simple shower pan leak and can range from a simple repair to all-out restoration. There are a few things that can be checked to help you ascertain where the leak is coming from and how serious the situation is.

How To Find the Source of a Shower Leak

• Inspect the plumbing components to see if they are wet or leaking
• Check the drainpipe and drain fittings to see that it is properly seated and caulked
  
• Ensure that any caulking is sound and free of breaks
  
• Check doors for gaps in the seal and around hinges to make sure they close tightly
  
• Look for any cracks or gaps around the shower pan that may be allowing water to get through
  
  

A bathtub leak or shower pan leak can sometimes be found by inspecting the ceiling of the room below the bathroom. Water stains or wood that is dark and wet is a reliable sign that something is heading south, as are bulging ceilings, wet carpet or sheetrock. In a tub, look for a loose seal around the drain fittings. This is the easiest fix and a good place to start. If you are dealing with a shower pan, likewise check the seal around the drain first. Also, inspect for cracks or gaps. In a tiled shower, the problem can be as simple as a loose tile that water is getting underneath or the need to re-caulk between tiles.

If you do find a leak, call on a professional restoration service in Sunland Villages, AZ, to do an assessment and help remediate the situation before it gets worse. They can help protect your home and belongings from water damage. Checking regularly for a bathtub leak and taking proactive steps can give you peace of mind.

DIY Solutions for Removing Shower Mold

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Clean your shower head using white vinegar

4 Cleaning Ingredients you Can Find In Your Cupboard

Some homes in Leisure World, AZ, have issues with shower mold. Whether it is the high humidity, lack of ventilation, or abundance of spores, bathroom mold can be a constant problem. Many people grab a commercial cleaner to use in the battle against the unsightly fungus, but others prefer the use of more natural cleaning agents. Here are four cleaning ingredients you can find in your cupboard.

1. Borax

Borax is a great cleaner. Dissolve one-fourth cup of the crystals into one quart of water. Spray the solution on the problem area and use a brush to scrub the moldy zone. Rinse the area and repeat the process as needed.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide

For a great cleaning solution, fill a dark spray bottle with hydrogen peroxide and add two tablespoons of vinegar. Spray the cleaner on the shower mold and wait for half an hour. Spray again and wait for an hour. Wipe the area clean and repeat if necessary.

3. Vinegar

One of the best household cleaners, vinegar is known for its acidity and that makes it a natural solution to a black mold problem. Spray a full-strength solution of vinegar on the mold and wait an hour. Repeat as necessary, and then use hot water to rinse the area and dry completely.

4. Bleach and Baking Soda

Using a little hot water, a cup of baking soda, and a few drops of scented oil, form a loose paste. Spread the paste over the area and remove the majority of the mold. Once most of the fungi are gone, spray a solution of two parts water and one-part bleach on the area and allow it to dry. Repeat the spray if necessary, and rinse with water.

Although a mold colony can begin life as a small spot, it can quickly grow into an unsightly area. With these simple DIY household cleaning solutions, you can quickly vanquish that shower mold and return to a clean bathroom. If the mold keeps appearing, consider calling a mold remediation company to find the underlying problem.

Fire Escape in a Commercial Setting

1/12/2019 (Permalink)

It is important to have an emergency escape plan for your Mesa, AZ business

How to Safely Evacuate your Building

Because the safety of employees should always take top priority, no business owner in Mesa, AZ, should be without a proper fire escape plan. Read on to learn how to implement and share a strategy for safely evacuating your building and minimizing other forms of damage.

1. Exits and Space

The most important preventative measure is compliance with all existing local fire codes. Do not block any exits and have all exterior fire escapes routinely inspected for structural integrity. Leave adequate space near all sides of the building for firefighters and other emergency personnel to park their vehicles. Install and maintain multiple fire alarms and extinguishers per floor. Do not exceed the occupancy limits as outlined in your local codes, as too many people on the premises will strain any emergency escape plan and make injury or property damage more likely.

2. Implementation and Awareness

A fire escape plan is only as good as your ability to communicate it effectively with your employees. Have fire safety videos and related information as part of your routine training process. Explain an orderly evacuation procedure when all employees are present and test it with regular drills. Make sure that escape routes and building plans are labeled clearly and posted on doors and walls as required by applicable fire codes. Congregate outdoors in the vicinity of the first responders, but do not block their access to the building.

3. Emergency Training

If significant smoke is present, evacuation may require crawling along the floor and away from the escaping tendrils, which will rise near the ceiling. It will be extremely beneficial to have some segment of employees educated in first aid in case emergency personnel are delayed. For example, burns may need to be wrapped and cooled to prevent infection.

Since a commercial fire can strike at any moment, don’t wait to devise a specific fire escape plan for your place of business. This should include both a sound evacuation procedure and contact information for fire restoration professionals.

Preventative Measures Against Water Damage

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Mesa, AZ home

Preventative Measures Against Water Damage

When dealing with problematic water in the home, sometimes complacency is the biggest enemy. Many leak or flood scenarios are a result of a process that occurs over a long period of time. Early prevention is key to ensuring that your property in Mesa, AZ, stays dry.

1. Air Systems

Defective HVAC units are one major cause of leaks in the home. A broken pipe leading to or from the unit can cause visible condensation that accumulates and drips into the insulation below. Cold weather or improper operation can also cause the unit to freeze, resulting in periodic thawing that also creates problematic dripping. Overly-humid air can lead to pockets of moisture buildup over time, exacerbating these issues. Regular inspection of heating and air conditioning systems is necessary to prevent retention of water in the home.

2. Appliances and Related Plumbing

Dishwashers, refrigerators and other appliances need maintenance as well. Corrosion or mechanical wear can cause cracks or fit issues on pipes, gaskets and valves that connect your appliances to your home’s plumbing system. An appropriate pipe cleanup procedure involves both replacement of the broken components and a removal of any lingering water or soaked flooring or drywall surrounding the leak.

3. The Bathroom

Given the volume of water that moves through a typical bathroom, it should be no surprise that leakage can ensue there as well. Toilet drains and shower fixtures should also be inspected frequently to determine that water is only moving through the intended drainage channels. Again, persistent condensation, discoloration or oxidized metal surfaces can be indicative of a problem.

In short, drainage and ventilation keep a home dry. A single point of failure in any of these systems can be enough to cause substantial damage given enough time. Remember, if standing water in the home becomes a severe enough problem, it may be necessary to contact a professional cleanup service.

3 Things to Consider When Choosing a Fire Alarm for Your Home

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

A smoke alarm can be a lifesaving for your home in Sunland Villages, AZ

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fire Alarm

You want your home in Sunland Villages, AZ to be safe, and a smoke alarm can be lifesaving if a fire occurs. However, there are many different fire alarms available and you may be unsure of what alarm is best for your home. There are several factors to consider when choosing the right detector.

1. Not All Alarms Are the Same

There are often different ways in which alarms detect smoke. If you want an alarm that is sensitive to smoke, an air-sampling smoke detector might be best. Alternatively, photoelectric alarms will detect slow-burning fires, an ionization alarm detects quick-moving fires. Overall, knowing what you want out of your alarm can help you choose the best fit for your home.

2. Alarms Can Have Different Functions

While the primary function of a fire alarm is to alert you and others in the home if there is a fire, some people also expect their fire alarm to alert them of carbon monoxide. Some fire alarms will alert you to the presence of carbon monoxide and smoke, but some alarms are only made to detect and alert you to smoke. If you’re uncertain whether your smoke alarm will alert you to carbon monoxide, examine the alarm and read over the instructional booklet that came with your alarm when it was first purchased.

3. Understand the Noises Your Alarm Makes

Part of fire safety often means knowing how to react to your alarm, and noises from alarms can mean different things. If you have an alarm that detects both carbon monoxide and detects smoke, you can test your alarm to familiarize yourself with the different noises your alarm will make if it detects smoke or carbon monoxide. Additionally, a smoke detector can start chirping if the batteries need to be replaced.

Knowing the differences between the types of alarms can help you determine what type of smoke alarm is best for your home. If your home has already sustained damage from a fire and you want your home restored, it may be helpful to contact fire damage restoration professionals.

The Best Cleaning Methods for Water-Damaged Contents

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Wet carpet due to broken pipe in a Leisure World, AZ commercial building

A variety of restoration methods can be effective for contents with water damage. A mitigation service will recommend the best options for cleaning the contents of a flooded company. Find out more about how experts treat different types of items.

Delicate Contents

Delicate contents may require more or less extensive cleaning depending on the category of water damage. Contents exposed to:

• Category One clean water should be air dried
• Category Two gray water should be cleaned, disinfected, and dried
• Category Three black water should be cleaned, disinfected, and dried

Some delicate materials may not stand up to disinfection and should be disposed of and replaced. Other items may benefit from dry cleaning, foam, immersion, or spraying and wiping.

Stained Contents

Stained contents may require intensive methods. Depending on the durability and porosity of items, treatments may include

• Foam
• Immersion
• Spraying and wiping
• Ultrasonic waves
• Wet cleaning

These methods can remove stains from many types of contents in a flooded company. Factor in the materials, category of water damage, and cause of staining when selecting a cleaning method.

Non-Porous Contents

Hard, non-porous contents can be good candidates for several cleaning techniques. Damage cleanup experts may recommend abrasion, immersion, treatment with ultrasonic waves, or wet cleaning. The delicacy of items should be taken into consideration when determining the best cleaning method.

Porous Contents

Allow porous items or materials exposed to clean water from a broken pipe to air dry. It may be possible to speed drying by using air movers, dehumidifiers, or fans. Porous contents exposed to contaminated water may need to be thrown away and replaced. These items can pose a recontamination risk.

The owner of a building or flooded company should inquire about content cleaning methods. Most of these treatments call for specialized training and professional equipment or treatment facilities. Rely on a damage restoration firm located in Leisure World, AZ.

Is There a Standard for Mold Cleaning?

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial water and mold clean up in Desert Uplands,AZ

How To Start Mold Remediation Process

If your business in Desert Uplands, AZ is affected by mold, you may be unsure how to start the remediation process. There are various mold standards that can help you understand what to look for when it comes to cleaning and removing mold in your business.

1. EPA Standards

The EPA, or the Environmental Protection Agency, is one standard by which mold cleaning is measured. The EPA standards focus on the impact that mold can have on an environment. The EPA offers specific cleaning standards for commercial buildings and provides resources for business owners whose buildings have been affected by mold. This standard can be particularly helpful to people who need an overview of what the mold removal process requires.

2. OSHA Standards

OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, also provides specific mold removal standards for different types of buildings and businesses. OSHA mold standards explain common causes of mold as well as common signs of mold growth. Some states have an OSHA-approved State Plan, which explains detailed workplace health standards in your state. If your state does have a State Plan, this plan can help guide you toward the next steps in mold removal.

3. IICRC Standards

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or the IICRC, is another important standard for cleaning and removing mold. Unlike the EPA and OSHA standards, the IICRC standards are not specifically focused on commercial buildings, but instead provides a broad spectrum of information that can be applicable to both commercial and residential areas. The IICRC standards also provides mold removal companies and workers with details about how the removal process should work and how to properly clean black mold and other potentially hazardous molds.

Understanding the different types of mold standards can help you know what to look for when hiring a company to assist in mold cleanup and can also provide you with helpful resources. If mold is found in your business, it can be helpful to work with mold remediation experts to restore your business to a safe, clean state.

How To Treat Burns

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Sunland Villages, AZ

When a building burns, fire damage to the structure is only one concern you need to address. The fire safety plan for your commercial building in Sunland Villages, AZ, is likely designed to evacuate occupants before anyone gets hurt. It is possible that someone could sustain a burn, though. Knowing the difference between a major and minor burn, and what to do in each situation, is essential for providing burn first aid.

Minor Burns

A superficial burn doesn't require a trip to the emergency room. There are a few signs to tell if a burn is minor:

• Similar appearance to sunburn
• Moderate pain
• Small or nonexistent blisters
• Diameter of three inches or less

To take care of a minor burn, you need to cool it off with a cool compress, apply lotion and gently bandage it with sterile gauze. Over-the-counter medication should be sufficient to handle the pain.

Major Burns

Just as you need a professional fire remediation company to take care of fire damage, you need professional medical personnel to handle a major burn. Look for the following symptoms:

• Deep wound
  
• Dry, leathery patches on skin
  
• Charred patches showing brown, black or white spots
  
• Diameter of more than three inches
• Location in a sensitive area, such as the face, groin, major joint, feet, hands or buttocks

If you see these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Before emergency help arrives, you can perform basic first aid to keep the victim more comfortable and prevent further injury. Obviously, you need to make sure he or she is moved to a safe place and remove any clothing or accessories that are touching the burned area. Cover and elevate the burn above heart level. Keep a close eye on the person's breathing patterns and make sure he or she stays conscious.

Addressing fire damage to your building should be secondary to the safety of its occupants. If anyone gets burned, knowing some burn first aid can help you ensure that he or she gets the care needed.

3 Things To Avoid After a Flood

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding clean up in Desert Uplands, AZ

Avoid Doing The Following

When storms send flood water into your Desert Uplands, AZ, home, you don't always know what to do. When is it safe to return to your house? Can you start the cleanup on your own? How you handle a flood will depend on the severity of the damage. It can be helpful to call about storm damage services right after the storm has left your area. You should also try to avoid doing the following:

1. Walking Into Standing Water

Did you know that 6 inches of moving water can cause you to lose your footing? Because even shallow waters can be dangerous, you should avoid walking into any standing water. Your flooded home may be full of stagnant water, but you should still avoid going into it. If the electricity is on, the water could be charged. Storm water could contain dangerous contaminants, too.

2. Waiting To Schedule a Cleanup

Do you want to try to tackle the water damage on your own? Unless you know how to effectively remove flooding and humidity from your house, you should turn to a professional. The sooner you can schedule your cleanup, the better it will be for your home. If you wait too long, you may have increased mold growth in your space.

3. Returning to Your Home Too Soon

While you want your life to return to normal, you need to make sure the flood water is completely gone before you return. Going home too soon can make it harder for the cleanup crew to properly remove excess humidity. The cleanup may require building materials to be replaced, which can leave your home dusty. If you wait until the entire process is finished, you can return to a more normal life right when you move back in.

Storm flood water may cause you to leave your home until the damage can be fixed. Taking the wrong steps after this type of flood can make the restoration process harder than it has to be, so remember what not to do.

4 Things To Throw Away After a Fire

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

4 Things To Throw Away After a Fire

High heat can damage non-perishable and perishable food items in a home that has experienced a fire. You should avoid eating food exposed to fire suppressants, smoke, or soot. Avoid feeding pets food exposed to fire. Here are five more things to throw away after a fire.

1. Medicine

Medicine that shows signs of fire damage or that has been exposed to smoke, soot, or suppressants should be disposed of and replaced. Most medicine has a safe temperature range stated on the label and may be less effective if this range is exceeded. If these items were anywhere near a fire, it is likely that temperatures surpassed the upper limit.

2. Burned Clothing

Clothes exposed to ashes or soot may be restored, but you should throw away burned clothing. This is particularly the case for baby's or children's clothing. Wash sooty clothes in a mixture of four to six teaspoons of tri-sodium phosphate or TSP-PF phosphate-free cleaner to one cup of bleach per gallon of water. You can also try products that contain sodium percarbonate or oxygen bleach.

3. Cosmetics

Even though you don't ingest most cosmetics, these substances are worn on the skin. Makeup or personal care items exposed to extreme heat, smoke, soot, or fire suppressants may cause irritation or increase the amount of transdermal toxins absorbed through skin.

4. Porous Food Preparation Equipment

Avoid bringing clean food or drinks into contact with contaminated surfaces such as cutting boards, plastic dishes, cups, or utensils, or baby bottle nipples. Dispose of these items if they have been exposed to fire, smoke, or soot.

Throwing away these four types of items may reduce the risk of continued exposure to fire suppressants, smoke, or soot. If you are unsure whether to throw away an item or attempt to have it restored, contact a residential fire damage restoration firm in Desert Uplands,AZ.

3 Practical Flood Prevention Strategies Every Community Can Employ

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

No community wants to endure a costly flood cleaning project. While numerous flood prevention strategies exist, some measures are expensive, long-term projects, that may not be ideal for smaller communities with limited budgets and minimal infrastructure. However, practical techniques that do not require extensive resources exist to help every city and town, including Sunland Villages, AZ, reduce their flood risk.

1. Sustainable Drainage Systems

Paved roadways and concrete sidewalks are common fixtures in most communities. Although they provide convenient transportation avenues, these structures do not absorb water. Grass and other vegetation do, however. For this reason, it’s important for every community to maintain gardens and other green spaces such as grass fields and parks.

2. Floodplains

Low-lying land adjacent to rivers and streams is prone to flooding. Instead of utilizing these areas for development, consider maintaining them as a floodplain. This may be an efficient flood prevention strategy because a floodplain acts as a natural water retention zone that can collect a significant amount of water. Floodplains also help slow rainwater runoff. Both benefits may minimize water overflow into surrounding communities, helping to prevent potentially devastating water damage to local homes and businesses.

3. Sewer Systems Free of Debris

In most areas, rain water is diverted into the sewer system. A significant storm can quickly inundate and overwhelm the system, increasing the community’s flood risk. The situation is further complicated if storm drains and sewer lines are contaminated by trash and other debris. For this reason, every community should take proactive measures to eliminate garbage, sediment and tree roots from sewer lines and drainage channels.

Recovering from a flood can be a lengthy process, especially if the damage necessitates extensive cleanup and restoration initiatives. While no community can fully eliminate their flood risk, these practical flood prevention measures can help protect the interests of residents and business owners by reducing the likelihood of a devastating and costly flood.

Four Steps To Mitigate a Water Heater Leak

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Stop the leaking of your water heater in Mesa,AZ

The water heater in your home can trigger extensive damage if it starts to leak. Follow these four steps to mitigate damage caused by a leaking water heater.

1. Identify the Problem

Figure out exactly where the water heater leak is coming from. High pressure can cause water to spray from supply pipes. Pipes may also burst or leak. The gasket that connects heating elements to an electric water heater tank can leak, as well. Check the temperature and pressure relief valve and the drain valve for drips. Condensation during cooler weather or due to an obstructed vent in a gas water heater can also seem like a leak. If corrosion has eaten through a metal tank, you must replace the failed water heater.

2. Drain the Tank

Turn off the gas and either extinguish the pilot light or flip the switch at the breaker box. Shut off the water supply to the heater, and run hot water in a sink or tub to drain the tank. Open the pressure relief valve to test its integrity and drain water more quickly. Allow water in the tank to cool before connecting a hose to the drainage spigot with the opposite end in a large bucket. Turn on the spigot to finish draining the tank.

3. Repair or Replace the Heater

You may be able to fix a leaking water heater yourself. However, a specialist can skillfully repair a broken water heater or install a replacement, reducing the likelihood that a leak will reoccur.

4. Mitigate Water Damage and Restore Damaged Items

Eliminate standing water and thoroughly dry the area to prevent mold from forming. If the water damage is extensive, restoration experts can determine which building materials to restore or replace.

Follow these steps to limit the damage caused by a leaking water heater. Stop the leak and restore the affected area with the assistance of damage restoration professionals located in Mesa, AZ.

Flood-Damaged Items Need to Be Restored or Replaced

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

Be sure to call the professionals if you have flooding in you home!

Dealing with damaged floors, walls and ceiling is straightforward. There is nothing to restore so the damaged materials are torn out and sent to the dumpster. When it comes to content cleaning, non-porous objects can be cleaned and used again.

Porous objects that have been through a flood pose problems.

Anything Involving Fabric Is Porous

This includes bedding, window treatments, linens and upholstered furniture. The decision to restore these items needs to be made on a case-by-case basis.

Anything Wooden Is Considered Porous

Furniture, built-in hutches, cabinets, and doors would be considered porous. The finished surfaces may seem to be waterproof, but water, bacteria, and mold can get into the joints and enter the wood through the unfinished areas that meet the floor. Restoration of these items is questionable.

Electronics Would Be Considered Porous

Content cleaning is a challenge when it comes to electronics and appliances. They would be considered porous because water has easy access to the electrical and mechanical portions of the devices. If the devices were running when the floodwater reached them, it is likely that those devices cannot be restored.

Blackwater Simplifies the Decision to Discard or Restore Items

Some floods cause sewage to be forced from the sewers back into the home. This sewage is referred to as blackwater. It is an extreme health risk to both people and pets if they are exposed to it. When black water is a part of your problem, you should consider replacing more and restoring less.

The Clean up Needs to Start Right Away

The cause of your flood in Peoria, Arizonais not important. What is important is to repair the damage as quickly as possible to prevent mold and other problems. Only you can decide what is to be replaced and what is to be restored in the content cleaning process. However, local restoration experts can deal with all the other issues and bring things to a quick conclusion.

Water Losses: What Doesn’t Your Commercial Policy Cover?

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

It is important as a business to know what your current policy covers so you can get additional coverage if needed.

Most commercial businesses are required to have some form of a commercial insurance policy; however, many plans do not cover all types of damage. For instance, leaking or damaged pipes or flooding may not be covered under your current policy. As many water problems can be quite expensive to remedy, you may be interested to know the most common issues that possibly require a special or additional plan to protect both you and your business.

May not be covered by current policy

Frozen Pipes

As a property owner, you have a responsibility to maintain the facility as best you can, and part of that responsibility is ensuring that the temperature of the building is warm enough to prevent freezing. While there are instances of freezing that are out of your control and likely covered by your policy, most cases of freezing pipes or water lines will require special coverage, as maintenance falls under your purview.

Consistent Leaks

Damaged pipes may be another area that most insurance companies feel is the responsibility of the business owner, as the maintenance of pipes and other plumbing is considered routine; therefore, when a building has been exposed to slow and persistent leaking pipes, many insurance companies will deem the expense the owner’s responsibility.

Mold Growth

Mold growth and mold damage are also examples of routine maintenance. Most insurance companies believe that an apparent mold problem, persisting for months, should have been noticed by the owner of the property before reaching the point of extensive damage. While it is possible to recoup some of the cost of mold remediation, you will likely need in addition to your current policy.

Damaged pipes and any resulting issues are most likely considered casualties of failed routine maintenance; however, you can check with either your insurer or with another insurer located in the Peoria, Arizona area to find out more specifics.

Is My Home Covered by Mold Insurance?

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

Make sure you know what your insurance policy covers. You want to be prepared before a disaster comes along.

Unfortunately, most homeowners' insurance policies in Peoria, Arizona do not provide mold coverage. There are some exceptions to this, however. Your policy may cover fungus growth if it was the result of situations that are covered, such as

• Fire or lightning
• Overflow of water or steam from home systems, such as the plumbing or air conditioner
• Frozen pipes
• Vandalism or theft
• Damage caused by vehicles
• Falling objects or damage due to heavy snow or ice
  

Examples of Mold Coverage

When your insurance policy covers accidents, it will generally cover fungus growth that was a direct result of the accident. Check out some situations when your insurance would probably cover you:

A pipe in your home bursts while you're at work and floods the basement, soaking into carpeting, drywall, and furnishings. Mold growth begins before you call the insurance company.

Heavy snowfall leads to an ice dam in the roof gutter and this allows water to seep under your shingles. That water and ice combination continues to grow until it has soaked your attic floor and insulation. A mold colony develops.

Examples of Non-Coverage

The old roof on your aging home becomes saturated with water and gives in to the heavy weight of snow during the winter. That saturation and damage leads to mold growth.

The pipes in your basement burst at the end of the winter. You don't realize that there's a problem for a couple of weeks. Fungus growth develops because of the standing water.

Get the Facts From Your Insurance Provider

Basically, your insurance provider expects that you'll provide routine maintenance on your home, addressing small problems before they develop into much larger issues. However, you can contact your insurance provider to ask about specific mold insurance. Be aware that even in this case, there may be a mold cap. If your home has been affected by fungus or mold, work with a Peoria, Arizona mold remediation representative or your insurance adjuster for more information on how to proceed.

3 Tips To Creating a Fire Escape Plan

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

Your fire escape plan could save lives in case of a disaster.

You purchase insurance for your business to cover the costs of accidents and other problems, but you hope to never need it. A fire escape plan works the same way. You don’t want to think about a fire ever starting in your office building, but if it does, you’ll be relieved to have an effective plan for getting safely outside. If your company doesn’t have such a plan, or if it’s been awhile since you’ve reviewed it, consider these suggestions.

Try the Red Cross

The Red Cross is one of the world’s foremost emergency and disaster response organizations. The nonprofit has some excellent tools and resources to help companies of all sizes come up with an appropriate emergency escape plan. Why should you consult the Red Cross?

• They have extensive experience.
• They have vast educational resources.
• You can get information and materials to develop your plan at no cost.

Take it Seriously

A fire escape plan isn’t something you throw together in a few minutes. This is a critical issue, and it’s essential that you’re prepared to act in case of a fire. Spend time with the key leaders of your company discussing how you will respond to a fire at work. Assign roles to different people in the organization. Make sure everyone in your Mesa, AZ, building know how to safely exit and what’s expected of them. Fire and cleanup crews will do their job; you need to do yours.

Practice it Regularly

A one-time run-through of your plan isn’t sufficient. You should conduct an annual drill to ensure everyone knows how to get out of the building in an orderly, and timely manner. Make sure everyone knows where to meet outside. Identify weaknesses in your plan, and devise ways to improve it.

Your fire escape plan could save lives in case of a disaster. Get everyone in your organization on the same page by creating and implementing your plan today. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/.

Employee Safety: Timeline for Returning to Work

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Employees can probably return even if the building is still under minor reconstruction.

When black water floods your building in Mesa, AZ, your primary concern is probably for the safety of your employees. You cannot ignore, however, the risk of taking too long for employees to return to work. Fortunately, employees don't have to stay away through the whole restoration process. Knowing what is going on in each stage of that process can help you discern whether it is a good idea for your employees to be present during it.

1. Stage 1 – Extraction

The first step of the flood cleanup process is extraction of the excess water. Technicians must remove as much of the water as possible to prevent further damage. This halts the progress of water saturation as well as mold growth.

2. Stage 2 – Demolition

The next step is removing everything that is unsalvageable. This includes walls, ceilings, floors and insulation. It is not safe for anyone other than the professionals in charge of cleanup to be present during this step.

3. Stage 3 – Disinfection

Black water contains the highest level of contaminants. It is likely that sewer bacteria and harmful microbes are present in the water. Everything the water touches must be disinfected before it is safe for people to enter. Professionals use a variety of techniques, such as air filtration devices or antimicrobial chemicals, to disinfect the affected areas.

4. Stage 4 – Restoration

After the building is clean, the process of replacing walls and making it look nice can begin. It's probably a good idea to wait until new walls and other basic structures are in place before employees return, but other aspects of the restoration process, such as painting or replacing lost items, can occur after regular workdays begin again.

Employees can probably return even if the building is still under minor reconstruction. As soon as remediation specialists rid the building of the contamination caused by black water, it is typically safe for employees to come back to work. When in doubt, always defer to the expertise of the specialists who are handling the cleanup process. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/.

How To Make a Water Damage Claim

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

To successfully navigate the insurance claim and cleanup process, follow these tips and don't be afraid to get a flood restoration expert involved.

No homeowner in Mesa, AZ, likes the shock of coming home to a flood caused by a major pipe burst or a water heater leak. If the damage to your home is severe, you may want to file an insurance claim. If so, you will need to contact the insurance agency immediately. Read your insurance policy to determine coverage, exclusions and whether you are responsible for preventing additional damage. When you're ready to make a claim, follow these four steps.

1. Gather Evidence

When you file a claim, you are likely to obtain a better settlement if you collect evidence using an effective plan. The steps below can help you to build a solid claim:

• Take pictures of the damage from a few different angles and pair them with a written inventory of each item's model, age and replacement cost.
• Identify whether any outside person's actions may have caused the damage and secure their contact information.
• Keep detailed and accurate records as you gather.
• Organize your evidence chronologically as you collect it.

2. Mitigate Damage

Some policies may require the homeowner to give evidence of action taken to prevent further damage as part of an insurance claim. Others may not. Either way, it will likely help your case if you clean up whatever you can safely access and salvage items that can be restored. Be sure to save this step until after you've photographed the damage, of course.

3. Keep Records

Keep detailed records and copies of every contact you make or receive from insurance representatives. Assemble your evidence and check to make sure you have not overlooked anything. You should now be in a good position to file your claim.

4. File a Claim

Inform your insurance company in writing that you are filing an official claim. The insurance company's adjuster will conduct a damage inspection at your home. After a review, the company will send you an official statement of the dollar amount your policy will cover and exclude for this claim

To successfully navigate the insurance claim and cleanup process, follow these tips and don't be afraid to get a flood restoration expert involved. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/.

Mold 101

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

In nature, mold serves a natural purpose in the ecosystem. However, mold, especially black mold, should not take up residence in your building.

In short, mold is a fungus that helps to decompose dead plants and animals by breaking down carbon material. Mold spreads through the air via spores that attach themselves to any source of food. Their spores can also grow indoors. One of the most infamous is Stachybotrys, also commonly known as “black mold.” However, this is not the only mold that can find its way into buildings. Although the exact number of species is still unknown, scientists estimate that there are thousands. Many can affect your business in Mesa, AZ. Here are some of the most common kinds and how to identify them.

1. Aspergillus

Aspergillus is frequently found wherever dust accumulates. It typically has a brown or dark-green color. Different places this mold can spread are floors, wallpapers and air filters. Certain species are also found on food.

2. Stachybotrys

Stachybotrys earned its nickname, black mold, through its distinctive greenish-black gel-like appearance. Like many fungi, it can spread in any area with a moisture problem. That is why it is frequently found in restrooms or on walls in rooms that have experienced flooding. While some species may not pose a large threat to public safety, you can check with a reputable mold cleanup service to inspect your property in order to identify whether professional removal is necessary.

3. Cladosporium

Cladosporium can also spread in areas of high moisture. Colonies can grow in bathrooms, in basements and on any wood surface. Typically, you can spot this type of mold by its green or brown color. While it is possible to remove this type of mold yourself, calling qualified mold experts can assist in its disposal.

In nature, mold serves a natural purpose in the ecosystem. However, mold, especially black mold, should not take up residence in your building. Learning how to identify mold and who to call when you face an infestation will help you safeguard your business’s future. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/.

Developing a Fire Evacuation Plan

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

If you prepare yourself and your family well, you can help minimize the chances of tragedy if a fire starts in your house.

As a homeowner and parent, you couldn’t bear the thought of a devastating fire threatening your kids’ safety or the security of your house and belongings. In the event of a fire, the most important thing you can do for your family is safely get everyone out. To avoid confusion and panic, it’s essential that you develop an escape plan so that if this terrible ordeal does occur, everyone will know what to do. There are some basic steps and components for evacuating if your Mesa, AZ, home is on fire.


Conduct a Thorough Walk-Through


You live in your home, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t become more familiar with the intricacies of the layout and places of exit. Take your family through your house to ensure everyone knows how to effectively take part in a fire escape.


* Inspect the windows and doors in every room.
* Make sure the windows open easily and that even younger family members can open them.
* Make sure there are at least two ways out of every room.


Pick a Gathering Place


Once everyone has safely escaped the home fire, you need a place to congregate. This should be a safe distance from the home, and it should be a place everyone is familiar with. Make sure everyone in your family knows the spot you’ve designated so there won’t be any mistake about where you should go if a fire starts.


Practice the Escape


You hope to never have to put this escape plan in motion, but if you have to, you’ll be glad you’ve done a few run-throughs. Your kids’ safety is at stake, so make sure everyone has the process down well.


There’s nothing more important to you than your kids’ safety. If you prepare yourself and your family well, you can help minimize the chances of tragedy if a fire starts in your house. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/. 

First Signs of Sewer Backup

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

It is vital you call in the experts as soon as possible to keep your family safe.

Heavy storms and the accompanying rainwater can create problems for homeowners, as sewage systems within Mesa, AZ, might be suddenly tasked with draining more water than they were designed to handle. Too much water being forced through a narrow opening can actually create the reverse effect of pushing water backwards, causing a sewer backup that affects residential properties. If your house is experiencing backflow problems, look for these noticeable signs.

1. Multiple drains will experience a clog. It is common to find a blockage when too much hair, debris, or food particles have made their home in a drain pipe, but to find several clogs at the same time is an indication of a deeper issue.

2. Water will backflow out of other drains. If you notice water gurgling from your kitchen drain after running the dishwater, or find black water filling the shower floor after flushing the toilet, you can be certain of a sewer backup. The draining water has encountered a block and it is looking for an alternate escape route.

3. Flushing the toilet is difficult. Should your toilet refuse to flush, and you have unsuccessfully tried plunging, you may have a bigger problem. Having some bubbling in the toilet bowl is normal, yet excessive bubbling that occurs after flushing or when draining water in another part of the house is also a sign of a problem.

In addition to clogged drains and bubbling backflow in kitchens and bathrooms, check your basement or lower-level rooms for standing water, being careful to avoid situations where electricity is present. Drainage problems can often trigger flooding in these areas where a laundry drain might be.

It is vital you call in the experts as soon as possible to keep your family safe. Sewer backup brings wastewater into the home, creating unsanitary conditions for families regardless of where the water enters. If storms are threatening the Mesa, AZ, area, stay alert for these signs of backup. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/. 

First Signs of Sewer Backup

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

It is vital you call in the experts as soon as possible to keep your family safe.

Heavy storms and the accompanying rainwater can create problems for homeowners, as sewage systems within Mesa, AZ, might be suddenly tasked with draining more water than they were designed to handle. Too much water being forced through a narrow opening can actually create the reverse effect of pushing water backwards, causing a sewer backup that affects residential properties. If your house is experiencing backflow problems, look for these noticeable signs.

1. Multiple drains will experience a clog. It is common to find a blockage when too much hair, debris, or food particles have made their home in a drain pipe, but to find several clogs at the same time is an indication of a deeper issue.

2. Water will backflow out of other drains. If you notice water gurgling from your kitchen drain after running the dishwater, or find black water filling the shower floor after flushing the toilet, you can be certain of a sewer backup. The draining water has encountered a block and it is looking for an alternate escape route.

3. Flushing the toilet is difficult. Should your toilet refuse to flush, and you have unsuccessfully tried plunging, you may have a bigger problem. Having some bubbling in the toilet bowl is normal, yet excessive bubbling that occurs after flushing or when draining water in another part of the house is also a sign of a problem.

In addition to clogged drains and bubbling backflow in kitchens and bathrooms, check your basement or lower-level rooms for standing water, being careful to avoid situations where electricity is present. Drainage problems can often trigger flooding in these areas where a laundry drain might be.

It is vital you call in the experts as soon as possible to keep your family safe. Sewer backup brings wastewater into the home, creating unsanitary conditions for families regardless of where the water enters. If storms are threatening the Mesa, AZ, area, stay alert for these signs of backup. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/. 

Your Toilet Overflowed...Now What?

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

From sewer damage and a malfunctioning toilet to foreign objects and too much toilet paper, an overflowing toilet can happen to anyone.

It's the last thing you want to happen, but sometimes you can't avoid it—your home in Mesa, AZ, has a flooded toilet. Whether it's from sewer damage, clogged pipes, or a malfunctioning toilet, there's still a mess to clean up. So, what do you do? Follow these four steps.

1. Turn off the water. The first thing to do is twist the turn-off valve located at the base of your toilet to stop the flow of water. If your toilet doesn't have one or you're unable to twist it completely, remove the tank lid and place the "ball" or "float" into a resting position until water ceases to fill. You should also ensure there are no electronics, cords, or outlets exposed to the water. If there are, leave the room immediately and use the circuit breaker to turn off the electricity.

2. Check for obvious obstructions. A mass of toilet paper or a foreign object may have been mistakenly flushed. Use a toilet plunger and attempt to remove the blockage. If there is no blockage, sewer damage may be the cause of your issue.

3. Clean the area. Clean up as much as you can, taking extra care to treat anything the toilet water touched. If the toilet is not on the ground floor, check the room below it, too. Make sure to wear rubber gloves and thoroughly wash any bath mats or towels that got wet in the process. If something was damaged by the water and you're unable to clean it yourself, contact a local water damage restoration company to avoid throwing these items away. They'll have the tools needed to restore cabinets, fabrics, and other items you can't clean properly.

4. Call the professionals. If you're unable to fix your flooded toilet yourself, call for help. If a plumber can't locate the source of the overflow, you may need to contact the sewage company directly.

From sewer damage and a malfunctioning toilet to foreign objects and too much toilet paper, an overflowing toilet can happen to anyone. Follow these four steps to save your home—and yourself—from unnecessary stress. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/.

How To Restore a Flooded Basement

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

Prepare for a flooding event in advance.

Getting water out of a flooded basement in commercial buildings becomes much easier with the right equipment. Specialized pumps can help empty water, even if it is filled with debris. When removing water from your flooded basement or lower levels in Mesa, AZ, it is important to follow safety protocols. Water should not be pumped out during a storm. Instead, it is best to wait until the water levels stop rising, and then employ the correct tools to do so. Restoration efforts should include the following three steps:

? Empty the space of furnishings.
? Pump the water out.
? Dry and restore the area.

Pumping Out Water

There are a few kinds of pumps used in water removal, depending on the situation. Sump pumps are used in basements with a water-collecting sump area. Basements that are flooded regularly are good candidates for having a sump pump installed to ease the cleanup. Otherwise, a trash pump might be used. Trash pumps process solids and debris commonly found in floodwater, like twigs, muds, sand, and silt. Finding a restoration company with knowledge and experience in the equipment needed for your situation is the best choice to get a basement back in shape.

Basement Restoration

In order to return a basement to its former condition, several cleaning methods are worth considering:

? Carpet or floor cleaning
? Dehumidification
? Odor removal

A truck-mounted carpet cleaner is powerful and thorough, using energy from the vehicle itself to power the cleaning mechanisms, and outfitted with its own waste tank, which makes disposal of its wastewater much more convenient. Moisture-level monitoring throughout the repair is another process to ask your restoration company about, as it can help assure that all water has been removed.

Prepare for a flooding event in advance. Doing some basic research on basement flood repair and the equipment used in the process can help in deciding what cleaning and restoring processes are necessary for a given basement flood. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/.

Why Doesn’t Mold Go Away on Its Own?

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

Most homeowners lack the proper resources for effective mold detection and cleanup, and home removal is only partly effective in stopping the spread.

Some things you can wait out – but mold isn’t one of them. Black mold isn’t just pervasive; it’s invasive and can cause you significant problems if you don’t head it off at the pass. Mold won’t disappear if you just wait long enough for it to go away on its own. This is a problem you have to actively tackle with mold cleanup and remediation, especially if your home in Mesa, AZ, has a moisture problem.

So Just Why Is Mold So Hard To Get Rid Of?

The reason mold is so hard to get rid of is because even when you can’t see it, it never goes away. Mold exists in your environment as spores; as long as those spores don’t begin to sprout into fungal growths, there’s little to worry about. But it doesn’t take much to start black mold’s growth cycle; the smallest amount of moisture combined with organic matter such as fabrics, wood, drywall, and food can cause mold to begin to grow. Common sources of moisture leading to mold include the following:

• Leaking windows and roofs
• Burst or leaking pipes
• High humidity from environmental factors or shower steam
• Condensation from malfunctioning appliances
• Flooding from natural disasters such as hurricanes

Any one of these factors can create an environment ideal for mold to breed and spread throughout your household, including in hidden areas where it might not be readily visible.

How Can You Prevent Mold, Then?

The best way is to keep your home dry. Drying the home won’t be enough to get rid of the existing black mold, though. Generally, the only way to do this is through mold remediation and cleanup, usually by hiring special services and professionals who specialize in mold removal. Most homeowners lack the proper resources for effective mold detection and cleanup, and home removal is only partly effective in stopping the spread and preventing a reoccurrence. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/.

Prevent Lint Fires by Cleaning Your Dryer Vent

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

Preventing a lint fire is not exclusive to indoor tasks. Precautions should be taken outside as well.

A home clothes dryer fire can be an expensive disaster. There are 2,990 such fires reported in the U.S. annually. These preventable fires cause over $35 million in property damage each year. You may be certain that this could never happen to you, especially if you have top-of-the-line equipment, but your dryer vent could put you at risk. Being proactive by learning how often your dryer vent should be cleaned will keep your home in Mesa, AZ, safe. Here are three tips for properly maintaining a safe dryer.

1. Be Consistent

You can easily prevent a lint fire by cleaning your vent often. This simple task can save you a lot of money and heartache. Make it a habit to check the vent every time you do a load of laundry. It is also important to not neglect the back of the dryer, as it is an easy place for lint to build up over time. If cleaning by hand is not doing the trick, use a nylon brush for a more thorough clean.

2. Take the Extra Steps

It is important to take every precaution in regards to keeping your home safe. Less frequent but more intensive dryer cleaning tasks such as snaking the dryer exhaust every three months and regularly having the dryer professionally cleaned are important. It is also a good idea to unplug your washer and dryer if you will be away from your home for more than a week. You should have the number of the nearest fire restoration company on hand in the event that a fire does occur.

3. Check Outside, Too

Preventing a lint fire is not exclusive to indoor tasks. Precautions should be taken outside as well. Make sure that elements such as rain and snow do not damage your dryer by putting a covering on outside wall dampers. It is also important to make sure that outdoor vents do not get blocked by insect or animal nests. Use these tips to reduce the chance of a lint fire in your Mesa, AZ, home. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/. 

How Can You Stay Safe During Mold Removal?

4/30/2018 (Permalink)

Give SERVPRO a call if you notice mold growing in your home or business.

When the mold removal procedure takes place, you should take the necessary steps to contain mold in your building and keep you and your co-workers safe. Black mold can be potentially harmful, so it is important to know what you should do if mold is present.

1. Call a Professional

If you suspect mold growth is present in your building, call a professional in Mesa, AZ to begin the removal process. They will then be able to determine the damage. Mold can appear and spread within 48 hours of water damage, so it is recommended to get help immediately. A specialist should walk you through the steps he or she will take to contain the mold and protect the people present.

2. Use Barriers

To keep mold exposure to a minimum, your mold specialist will separate contaminated areas from work spaces with an airtight barrier, using negative pressure to filter the air out of the contaminated area and bring in fresh air. This helps to get rid of spores and makes it safer for people in the building. You may also be advised to turn off heating and cooling systems to prevent the further spread of spores. You might also need to designate a decontamination area, such as an unused bathroom, for mold specialists to remove their protective clothing before leaving contaminated areas.

3. Remove Mold

The air filtration is still taking place while mold removal begins. Special chemicals are used to prevent further spreading or to keep mold from coming back. Specialists will dispose of contaminated objects, such as insulation, baseboards and drywall. People in the building will need to clean and disinfect their personal items, such as clothing and furnishings, that may have come in contact with the mold. Professionals will then test the air for spores to determine if the areas were thoroughly filtered.

Mold growth is common where there is moisture. Frequently inspect areas where it may grow to catch it early or prevent it. Mold removal is not a job for just anyone, however. Leave that to the professionals who know the safe and effective ways to get rid of it. Visit 
http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com for more information on mold. 

Smoke Damage in Mesa, AZ

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

How does smoke get all over the house?

Smoke moves its way about your whole home and isn’t just confined to the area where the fire is. Smoke damage can be extensive, and smoke odor remediation requires filtering the air and dry cleaning clothing, among other treatments. Failing to clean up smoke damage can create health hazards or make the home an unsuitable place to inhabit. 

Trying to handle the fire cleanup can be difficult on your own. It is almost always best to hire a company in Mesa, AZ, that specializes in fire damage restoration. Their technicians will have the tools and the knowhow to clean your home properly, and ensure it is safe and comfortable for you and your family to live in. 

Call SERVPRO of Mesa East and have your home cleaned of smoke "Like it never even happened."

Tips for Creating an Effective Fire Escape Plan

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

You likely already know how crucial it is to have a fire escape plan for your home.

However, do you know how to make an effective one? The sad fact is that few adults know how to create an easy and reliable fire escape plan, and people fail to maintain an escape route that’s easy to navigate and meets the current standards.

1. A Family Effort

Whether you have children or you just live with a few roommates, it’s absolutely imperative that everyone understands the escape plan. Therefore, make its formation a family effort. Walk through your home and identify all of the possible exit routes and ensure that everyone involved comprehends how to get out of each space.

2. Make Your Home Easily Identifiable

During your escape, the last thing you want to do is have emergency response teams and other professionals arrive late because they couldn’t identify your home. Make part of your planning a prevention effort. If your mailbox number isn’t clearly visible from the street, take the time to paint it on the curb in highly visible paint.

Having a fire escape plan on hand is important, but ensuring that it’s an effective one is potentially more important. Following these tips can help to make any emergency escape plan more reliable so you can rest easy knowing you and your family are prepared.

Mesa Smoke and Soot Cleanup

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (480) 835-6688

How Fast can SERVPRO arrive?

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

1 – 4 – 8.

At SERVPRO of Mesa East at (480) 835-6688. We are committed to serving you 24/7, 365. We are also committed to contacting you in a timely manner, showing up promptly, and notifying your insurance company of the status of the loss efficiently and quickly.

The numbers 1-4- 8 have a particular meaning to us. Our commitment, when called by an Insurance Carrier or by our Call Center for a loss, is to contact the property owner within 1 hour of the First Notice of Loss, be on site within 4 hours, and contact the Insurance Carrier within 8 hours to report on the condition of the loss.

We are judged on these three numbers, but frequently we beat these numbers. It is not unusual for us to call the property owner within minutes of receiving a lead and for us to be on site within an hour. We understand how important it is to be there to start the drying process. We care about your property and look forward to helping you at every opportunity.

"Water, Water Everywhere/Nor any Drop to Drink"

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

“Water, Water Everywhere/ Nor any Drop to Drink” these famous lines from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem, “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” are spoken by a sailor on a becalmed ship, in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by salt water and speak to the desperation one feels when events are out of control.

We at SERVPRO of Mesa East are familiar with helping property owners who feel that way and can help them get back in control with our experienced technicians and our state of the art drying equipment. We practice the Science of Drying….and we specialize in restoring your property. We are a “One Stop Shop” – a company who can dry your property, take care of your contents, and rebuild if necessary. Call us at 480-835-6688 and we will be there 24/7, 365.

Three Steps You Should Be Taking Now To Protect Your Business

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

It takes a lot of time, money and devotion to operate a business.

The last thing you want to worry about is water damage after a flood. However, preparing for the elements is just one more thing business owners need to be mindful of in Mesa, AZ. Keep the following tips in mind before a flood happens so that you can get things back to normal if it does happen someday.

1. Protect Your Property
Have your building professionally evaluated before a storm hits to determine how strong it is and how well it will stand up to the winds and water. Special shutters can be purchased to shield doors and windows from debris. Also, have a supply of sandbags to keep the flood water from getting in. Additionally, you should secure all large furniture and utilities, such as water heaters or gas tanks. You should remove any branches or trees that could potentially fall during a storm. Do not forget digital belongings as well. You should back up all data and important business information in advance of a large storm. Any physical documents should be secured in a water proof safe if they are to be kept on the site of your business.

2. Understand Your Coverage
You must be responsible with your insurance before a flood hits. You should have property insurance, so you can repair any damages dealt during the flood, as well as worker’s compensation insurance to cover any injuries which could happen on your property. You can also consider getting business interruption insurance to be compensated for the time your business will be closed in the event of a damaging storm.

3. Be Prepared for Restoration
You should already have a reliable and trustworthy restoration company picked out before the storm hits. That way, you will already have a plan in place for beginning repairs for water damage and flooded parts of the building. It is amazing how much damage flood water can cause, which is why it is important to think about these tips before the big one hits.

Storm Preparation Tips for Mesa, AZ

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

Is your organization’s Mesa, AZ, office ready to take on flood water? Even when campuses are built on high ground, leadership teams should be proactive about reducing the potential impact of natural forces on business operations. Here are four particular areas of interest.

1. Keep Your Data Safe.

Are all of your drives encrypted and backed up? Can your IT department provide proof of this? Water damage could open the door to unauthorized access, compromising intellectual property. Even when not in the wrong hands, wet hardware can result in data loss. Networks often become vulnerable to attacks when configurations change unexpectedly.

2. Protect Critical Hardware.

Depending on where your business is located, network equipment and desktop computers should be protected with voltage stabilizers and UPS units. These devices prevent unexpected outages and surges from causing harm to delicate circuits. Grounding rods should be regularly inspected to ensure performance in the presence of lightning or flood water.

3. Implement Redundancy to Maintain Uptime.

You may have customers around the world who rely on your services. If your systems are down for even a few minutes, you could end up with several complaints and a reputation hit. A flooded building without a robust redundancy plan has the power to take a business down. For this reason, backup generators and remote mirroring tend to be wise investments.

4. Give Employees Remote Access.

Managers should think through the consequences of not having offices available for days or weeks after a disaster. Some organizations have met this challenge by providing key people with laptop computers that can access corporate systems from practically any internet connection. When workers are in the habit of taking these devices home with them, they’ll be ready to work from a remote location in case of emergency.

Good plans are needed for businesses to bear the impact of flood water. Your efforts to reduce risks now will be appreciated if you have to later contact a restoration company to get your site into shape.

Are you ready for monsoon season?

4/28/2018 (Permalink)

With monsoon season coming up for Arizona, it is important to make sure your home or business is prepared for the amount of rain we could receive. In years past we have had records amount of flash flooding that can cause waters to rise and damage a structure quickly. 

So what is the best thing to do if you property takes on water? 

The first thing to do is call SERVPRO of Mesa East immediately. They will have a water restoration team on site immediately to begin extracting the water from your building. Once all of the water is removed, they can begin to place air movers and dehumidifiers though-out the property. They can also make sure that no more water comes into the building or at least limit further damage. 

After a few days of drying and all of the moisture meters read the structure as dry, the equipment can be removed. In some cases some of the walls and baseboards will need to be put back together. 

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at anytime. 

Getting prepared for Monsoon Season in Mesa, Arizona

4/28/2018 (Permalink)

Monsoon season is approaching

As we approach monsoon season, it is important that you are prepared for any flash flooding. As you know in years past, the amount of rain in monsoon season can be dramatically high. It is important to know if you home or business gets wet from the rising waters, to make sure you get a professional team like SERVPRO of Mesa East on site immediately.

Why is it important to get a restoration company on site quickly? 

It is critical to prevent the further spread of damage and if water sits for several days it can begin to create microbial growth such as mold. SERVPRO of Mesa East will be able to walk your property and evaluate exactly what needs to be done to get your home or business back to pre loss condition. 

What is the best way to remove mold from your home?

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

If you experience mold growing in your home it is important to have it addressed immediately. Once you find microbial growth in your home, it is important to have a licensed environmental hygienist come on site to test it. 

Once the testing process is complete, a detailed protocol will come back for treatment. It is important to have a restoration company like SERVPRO follow each and every step of the treatment process. 

It is also important for proper containment to be set up to prevent the spread of mold spores. This can cause secondary damage that will make the situation worse than it originally was. 

Overall if you have any questions about mold remediation and restoration, feel free to call us anytime. We have team members available 24/7 to help you. 

Getting your business prepared for Monsoon Season in Arizona

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

With Monsoon season approaching it is important to make sure you are prepared for water damage and flooding. Even though we do not get a lot of rain year round in Mesa, Arizona, it is critical to be prepared when we do have heavy rains. 

Flash flooding can happen quickly, causing thousands of dollars in damage to your business. If you have water that enters your business it is important to make sure that you have the water extracted and prevent more water from entering the building if you are able. 

SERVPRO has the experience and team in place to help get your building dry and back operational. Our team works 24/7 and have can help with any size commercial loss. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at anytime. 

Should I be worried about Mold in Monsoon Season?

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

With heavy rains coming in during monsoon season it is absolutely critical to worried about water damage causing mold. Mold can start to grow just days after an affected area remains wet. It is important that if you have water damage, that you remediate the damages as soon as possible. 

SERVPRO is able to help make sure that all of the water is removed to prevent secondary damages. Once the water is removed adequate air movement will be necessary to make sure the entire structure is dry. Once dry, the equipment can be removed. 

Many times areas of your home or business will become wet, causing mold to grow in unseen areas. If you suspect you have water damage, SERVPRO can arrive with thermal imaging cameras to detect what is wet and what is not. 

How to get rid of mold in your home or business in Mesa, AZ

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your Mesa home or business, SERVPRO of Mesa East is here to help! Our team has the experience and training to handle any mold job, large or small. 

It is critical to detect and have an environmental hygienist evaluate the situation as soon as possible. That way the proper test and protocols can be recommended. 

After the protocol is written, SERVPRO of Mesa East can handle the remediation from start to finish. Our production managers are skilled to make sure the proper containment and team members properly remediate the microbial growth. 

It is also important to make sure your restoration company documents each step of the process for your benefit. Having the right photos is important to make sure the job is done correctly. 

Why do I need to hire a restoration company to remove mold?

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

It is critical to hire the right restoration company to remove mold and other microbial growth in your home or business. If you detect mold growing or any type of microbial growth, it is important to have a licensed restoration company like SERVPRO of Mesa East come on site and evaluate. Once onsite they will determine if an Environmental Hygienist will be needed to do a proper test. 

In most cases a licensed hygienist will test the mold and get a full lab report. This report will also include the treatment protocol that SERVPRO of Mesa East will follow from start to finish. 

In many cases you might just have questions, and our team is here to help educated and answer any thoughts you might have. 

Top 6 Places Mold May Be Hiding in Your Home

3/29/2018 (Permalink)

While many types of mold are harmless, some varieties can ruin the comfort and value of your home in Mesa, AZ. Unfortunately, not all mold is easy to see. On the contrary, mold growth can occur in places you may not expect it. Here are the top six places mold could be hiding in your home.

1. Under the Sink

To grow, mold spores need moisture and a food source. Because the areas under your kitchen and bathroom sinks can be damp, mold may easily grow. Meanwhile, since these areas are dark, you may not notice growth until you have a large-scale infiltration.

2. Behind the Washer and Dryer

Since your washer and dryer increase humidity in the laundry room, mold often has the right conditions to grow and spread. If you haven’t looked behind your appliances recently, you may have undiscovered mold growing in your home.

3. Beneath Laminate Flooring

Mold doesn’t only grow on visible surfaces. Rather, mold growth can occur beneath flooring. If you notice mold growing in places you can see, you should consider contracting for a professional inspection of places you can’t.

4. Inside Walls

If moisture is present, mold only needs a food source to grow. The paper on the outside of drywall is often irresistible to mold. If you notice mold on wood or see moldy drywall, you should probably look inside your walls to see if mold has taken hold there as well.

5. Below Grout

Mold can grow beneath tiles and below grout. If you see discoloration or smell foul odors in tiled areas inside your home, mold may be present.

6. In Air Ducts

Since mold spores are microscopic, they can easily float on the air throughout your home. Therefore, if you notice mold growing anywhere in your house, be sure you inspect your air ducts and vents for contamination.

You don’t have to be afraid of mold in Mesa, AZ. You should, however, understand that mold grows in both visible and hidden places. With a comprehensive inspection, you can likely identify mold growth and work toward managing it.

Factors Affecting Your Cleanup Timeline

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

When anything happens to your home in Mesa, AZ, it is natural to want the problem fixed as soon as possible.

If your home floods as the result of bursting pipes, however, the restoration process can take quite a few days. If the water damage is minimal and only affects surfaces that can be easily dried, water restoration specialists could finish the process in as little as three to five days. Other factors, however, complicate matters.

Water Contamination Level

If the water that floods your home is sanitary, the primary task involved in cleanup is merely drying. More intense levels of contamination, however, may result in additional cleaning processes, delaying the restoration’s end date. When it comes to flooding, there are three categories of water:

• Category 1 – clean water from faucets or supply lines
• Category 2 – contaminated water from bursting pipes carrying appliance or fixture outtake
• Category 3 – sewer water or outside floodwater

The more contaminated the water is, the longer the cleanup process is likely to be.

Extent of Damage

Repair technicians can fix a broken pipe, but if the leak is significant, items affected may have to be replaced. If you have wood floors, they are likely to buckle and warp, requiring them to be removed. If your walls are saturated by standing water, the repair process is going to take longer while the section of the wall below the flood cut is removed and replaced. Any time the structural integrity of an area of your home is compromised by water damage, the timeline for fixing the problem will be extended.

While it is necessary to start the restoration process quickly after you discover bursting pipes in your home, the process itself may not be as fast as you would like for it to be. Flood restoration specialists in Mesa, AZ, can give you an estimate of the time it will take to complete repairs on your home. Whether it takes a few days or a few weeks, it is important that the restoration be thorough.

Cleaning After a Disaster in Mesa, AZ

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Every homeowner must allow enough time for the work to be done after a storm.

It will last over a couple of days to do the cleaning of a flooded home. Keeping the home ready for any sort of natural disaster is quite difficult. However, the cleaning portion after a disaster can be left to the professionals. The work must be completed by trained professional who understand how to clean black water damage. Each home that has had flooding will need to have extensive cleaning and restoration done to their home.

Homeowners in the Mesa, AZ, area need to be prepared for flooding after heavy rains. Black water can be devastating for a home but the cleaning doesn't have to be. Call the experts of SERVPRO of Mesa East after flood damage.

Visit SERVPRO of Mesa East for more tips on disaster preparedness.

Why hire the Professionals?

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Hiring professionals to help with mitigation when you have water in business properties is a way to expedite the process of drying the location and reducing the risk of mold growth, regardless of the size of the space.

When you have water in business properties, reducing mold growth is imperative to ward off high restoration costs. With proper tools, mitigation is possible with the assistance of professionals who specialize in flood damage, allowing you to gain peace of mind with less stress and worry altogether.

SERVPRO of Mesa East is ready with the right equipment to dry your company of the flood or broken pipe. Here is a list of some of the equipment we use:

• Low wattage air movers
• Dehumidifiers
• EPA registered antimicrobials
• High powered water extractors
• Trash pumps for flooded basements or elevator shafts

Warning for Hiking in Arizona: Part One

1/22/2018 (Permalink)

Seven Sacred Pools in Sedona, AZ

For those of you who know me know that I'm a Midwest girl at heart.  Growing up in the country in Iowa with my graduating class size being 32, moving to Phoenix was a culture shock to me, to say the least.  I missed my quiet country life and felt like I needed an escape.  It took me a couple of years to explore the state and find some of the most peaceful places to escape to.

Phoenix has a lot to offer, and if you like to hike, I have several great hikes I can recommend in the area (Camelback Mountain being my favorite, of course).  But if you have more time to explore this state, I highly recommend Sedona (2 hours from Phoenix). More specifically, I recommend hiking to the Seven Sacred Pools on the Soldiers Trail Pass. 

Soldiers Trail Pass is a 5 mile loop and has some great views and great stops along the way.  It's a fairly easy hike and is kid and dog friendly.  This picture hardly does this hike justice! 

Warning For Hikers

Flash flooding is a nightmare for hikers. Be safe during monsoon season in the Phoenix area because a storm can happen anytime. Dry rivers and canyons can easily become hazardous. 

I hope you can take the time to get outdoors and enjoy our beautiful state, for Arizona has a lot to offer! Be safe! 

Meet Our Marketing Team!

1/22/2018 (Permalink)

Vicki, Kelly and Ashley

If you haven't gotten a chance to meet the amazing marketing team for SERVPRO of Mesa East, let me introduce you!

Our long time Sales and Marketing Manager, Kelly Kordick, has been with us for almost 9 years.  She started when she was a Junior at Arizona State University.  Kelly started out marketing to Insurance Agents, but now she specializes in the Property Management Industry as well as handling some of our estimating.  

Our Sales and Marketing Representative, Ashley Gilbreath, has worked for us for over a year now.  She specializes in Insurance Agents and Commercial Marketing.  Ashley graduated from Arizona State University where she majored in Biology and was also on the ASU Dance Team.  

Our Summer Marketing Intern, Vicki Kordick, attends Iowa State University where she is majoring in Business Marketing & Management.  Vicki has worked for SERVPRO in Iowa as well but spends her summers with SERVPRO of Mesa East.  

Categories of Water Damage

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

Carpet Delamination- necessary to remove the carpet

There are three categories of water damage.

Category 1 - Water from a clean source (Supply Line)
Category 2 - Water that is somewhat contaminated (Washing Machine)
Category 3 - Water that is grossly contaminated (Sewer Backup)

Some insurance companies require drying in place for Cat 1 losses, meaning the restoration company isn't allowed to remove carpet and padding, etc., without approval.  There are some cases on Cat 1 losses where it's OK to remove the carpet, such as if the carpet is stained or delaminated.  SERVPRO of Mesa East will work with your adjuster directly and follow all of their guidelines while doing demo and any other necessary work.  We make it hassle-free for you as we are always in constant contact with your adjuster to get all approvals and make sure everyone is on the same page.  

Happy New Year

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

Our owners, Ray and Tammy, with our Sales & Marketing Manager Kelly (middle).

Hey, friends!

I have slacked, a lot, on this blog.  So here's a resolution for 2018 I will keep:  to blog more on here.  

We ended 2017 with our Christmas Party at Fajitas, which is a SERVPRO family favorite.  (Check out the attached picture of our franchise owners and I).  Now that 2017 is behind us, I am excited about 2018 and looking forward to another great year with SERVPRO.  I am approaching my 9th year (say what?!) with SERVPRO of Mesa East.   

My 2018 SERVPRO resolutions are:

- Stay organized

- Attend more networking functions

- Get the confidence to do Facebook Live, because I hear all of the cool kids are doing it. 

- Start a monthly newsletter with some contests.  If you have any contest ideas, please share!  

Thank you to everyone for your continued support and for trusting SERVPRO of Mesa East with your homes and businesses.  Always remember that we are here for you 24/7. 

Happy 2018, friends! 

- Kelly Kordick

Meet our SERVPRO Mascot!

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

Rocking his SERVPRO leash.

If you follow us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SERVPRO8679, you've probably already seen our new furry mascot.  If not, here's Sparky! 

Sparky is our newest team member and he started with us in September, when he was 8 weeks old.  We call him our official mold sniffing dog, but lets be honest, he spends his days at the office playing with his ball and taking naps.

He's attended some property management meetings with Kelly and has also done some route sales.  We think he's the perfet SMR! 

He keeps asking if he can join us at convention in Orlando this year, but unfortunately we have told him he will have to sit this one out.  

If you would like a personal office visit from Sparky, please e-mail Kelly at kordick.kelly@gmail.com and they will stop by!

- Kelly 

NARPM Goes Camping!

2/20/2017 (Permalink)

Kelly with Erin Reed from Show Appeal Realty hanging out by the camp fire.

It's almost time again for our Annual NARPM Camping Trip and we would love to have you there!

This event has always been a great time! Let’s get together out of a meeting or our offices for some fresh air & sunshine! NARPM will provide one meal (TBD) and s’mores fixings for both Friday & Saturday campfire! The group site has a private gated entrance, 12 picnic tables and 3 central grills. There is covered food prep areas and tables under 2 ramadas including trash service and vault toilets with no running water. 

How Much: Basically FREE! Each vehicle must have a "Tonto Pass" for each 24 hour period. The passes are $8 each and can be purchased online at www.fs.usda.gov/tonto OR at pretty much every store/gas station on the way out. If you need assistance with this, please contact Erin immediately.

When: Friday March 3rd – Sunday March 5th
Folks will generally begin to show up late morning thru earl evening and depart midday Sunday. You’re welcome to come and go as fits your schedule.

Where: Cave Creek Group Campground
The site is located 19 miles north of Carefree. From Carefree, take Cave Creek Rd/Forest Rd 24 to Seven Springs Day Use Area. Continue for less than ½ mile to the turn off to the group site. *The last 9 miles of FR 24 is an all-weather gravel road suitable for any 2 wheel drive cars*

Why: Because who doesn’t LOVE Arizona in March
Arizona is beautiful this time of year and isn’t it great to get outdoors! We can set up camping games, hike, go for a scenic drive and more

Who: Members, Affiliates, Families & Friends!
This event is open to friends and family of NARPM. The more, the merrier!

RSVP: Please RSVP with your head count no later than March 1st for adequate food planning
Please contact Erin with any questions at 480-917-7071 or Erin@homeinvest.us

If any members would like to sponsor a meal, snack, water, camp game or anything else, please let me know!

Contact Erin at 480-917-7071 or Kelly 480-309-7403

** Member Suggestion **
The Buddy Stubbs Museum would be a fun place to visit whikle there. They have over 100 vintage motorcycles.
Free Admission and it's open M-S 11-5 and Sunday 11-4
Website link
http://www.buddystubbshd.com/museum

Sad News about SERVPRO Founder, Ted Isaacson

2/7/2017 (Permalink)

It is with great sadness we announce the loss of SERVPRO’s founder, Ted Isaacson. After a sudden and brief illness, Ted passed away on Friday, January 20, 2017, surrounded by wife, Doris, and his family. May God Bless Ted and the entire SERVPRO® Family during this time.

Happy New Year!

1/11/2017 (Permalink)

Happy New Year

Happy New Year from your SERVPRO family!  

2016 was a great year for us and we couldn't be more excited for what 2017 has in store for us. 

We wrapped up 2016 with a big office move and we are finally settled in and organized at the new office and warehouse.  We also had one of our water technicians leave us at the end of the year so he could join the Phoenix Police Department.  While we are sad that he's gone and will miss him around here, we are very excited for him being able to live out his dreams of being a Police Officer.  

One of the things I'm most excited for in 2017 is our annual SERVPRO Convention in Seattle.  This will be my first time and I can't wait to have a week in cooler weather to take a break from the Phoenix heat.  Convention is a great week full of educational workshops and being able to mingle with the SERVPRO family from all over the United States.  It's truly an honor to be part of such a great franchise system. 

We wish you all the best for 2017 and look forward to being here for you for all of your fire and water restoration needs.  Whether it's big or small, we will make it like it never even happened.  

- Kelly 

Are you ready for some football?

8/29/2016 (Permalink)

Go Sun Devils!

Kelly and Kylie are super pumped for football season, especially with our new SERVPRO football swag.  We'll be coming around to all of our clients offices over the next month with these awesome SERVPRO stress relief footballs.  If you'd like one contact Kelly at kordick.kelly@gmail.com or (480) 309-7403.  

Good luck to all of your teams this season, and most importantly, good luck to ASU football!  

Hi, Friends!

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

Welcome to Our Blog

Hi SERVPRO friends, my name is Kelly Kordick and I am a Marketing Representative for SERVPRO of Mesa East. 

I grew up in the country 10 minutes South of Des Moines, Iowa.  My graduating class size was 32 people and K-12 was all in the same building.  I was active in the local 4-H program and I served as Vice President for two years and showed my horses, Bambi and Rodeo.  As much as I loved the country and my small town, I always knew I wanted to move away and go to college at Arizona State University.  Growing up in Iowa I developed a love for the sport of wrestling, which followed me into my college career where I was the wrestling manager at ASU.

I have been a part of the SERVPRO family for 6 years.  I started working for SERVPRO of Mesa East when I was a junior at ASU majoring in Business Marketing.  I thought it would be a great job to help build my resume so when I graduated I would have some experience under my belt.  Little did I know I would end up loving SERVPRO and so many different aspects of the job.  

I work in the marketing department as well as doing a lot of administrative tasks and have also had the opportunity to join our SERVPRO Storm Team where I travel to disasters.  I can't wait to tell you all about my experience with Hurricane Sandy and all of the other storms I helped with! 

Feel free to e-mail me at kordick.kelly@gmail.com if you have any questions or if you'd like to see any specific content on my blog.  I'd love to hear from you :)

-Kelly