Never Pour Grease Down Your Sink

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Can I pour grease down the sink?

You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious damage and blockage.

Some people use detergent to break up grease before pouring it down the drain…and that may help sometimes. But there’s no guarantee that it’ll keep the grease from sticking to your pipes, so why take the risk?

The safest thing to do is just to pour your grease in an empty can, and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. Done and done.

Pipe leaks from clogged pipes can cause water damage to your home as well as mold damage if the water damage is not soon addressed.

Source: www.farmers.com

Cigarette Smoke Smell in Your Home

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

Do you have a cigarette smoke smell in your new home left from previous owners?

It's obvious to a non-smoker when a home smells like cigarettes.  The smell of tobacco and/or cigarette smoke and tar is stubborn because it "sticks" to all surfaces in your home as it spreads through the air. So, how do you get rid of the cigarette odor?  The short answer is that it's very difficult.  ALL surfaces in the home need to be scrubbed and deodorized, including the: flooring, walls, furniture, appliances, window coverings, decorations, and clothing. Even the air in the home needs to be deodorized during the process.  It's not an easy task, but the experts at SERVPRO® of Bloomington / Richfield have done it many times and are more than willing to help you.  Give us a call today and start breathing fresh smelling air!

3 Myths About Fire Restoration

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Myth 1: Fire does the most damage

While the initial incineration from the fire can level homes and businesses in a matter of minutes, it is the aftershock of the smoke damage that in fact can be the most damaging. The aftershock of the residual water damage, soot, and smoke can continue to destroy structures and everything within them for days, weeks and months after the fire.

Myth 2: Just “air it out”

Once the initial fire event is over, the most frequent reaction for homeowners and business owners alike is to open all windows, doors and start the fans. Unfortunately, these initial reactions can often make matters worse as waterlogged furniture, flooring, and more can foster mold growth for years to come even if the surfaces do not seem wet anymore.

Myth 3: Everything must go

SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield knows how important your possessions are.  We try our absolute best to salvage what can be salvaged. Adopting a “restore first” mentality is crucial to help lower costs and get you back in your home or business sooner. This process relies upon specialized training and industrial equipment to restore your property and possessions back to pre-fire condition, something in which SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield specializes.

SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield is available 24/7 and works easily with your insurance. Give us a call today.

How to Prevent Mold Growth in the Workplace

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

The best way to prevent mold is to control moisture.

The main requirements for outdoor mold growth are moisture and shade. Mold does not like the sun and/or ultra violet rays. The main requirement for inside mold growth is simply moisture and it can occur in ceilings, attics, floors, insulation, wood, drywall, clothes, carpeting, bathrooms, and more. Some causes of excessive moisture are condensation, humidity, cooking, washing, or water from a flood, leak or spill. Mold also grows in environments with a warm temperature. Mold growth can begin in less than 48 hours of excessive moisture.

What you can do as a business owner to prevent mold growth from forming in your place of business:

• Fix water leaks. Any known water leaks should be fixed quickly. Have a contractor inspect for unknown leaks.
• Limit condensation. Keep room temperatures warm and/or well insulated.
• Reduce humidity. Open windows, install exhaust fans or use a dehumidifier.
• Clean wet/damp areas. Any wet or damp area, materials or affected equipment should be cleaned within 48 hours to prevent mold growth.

If your business has experienced water damage or mold growth, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield today!

Legal Fireworks Safety

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

If you choose to use legal fireworks, be sure to follow the following safety tips:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks
• Older children should use them only under close adult supervision
• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
• Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
• Never light them indoors
• Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person
• Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
• Never ignite devices in a container
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
• Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire
• Never use illegal fireworks

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave it to the experts and attend a fireworks show put on by professionals.

Source: National Safety Council online

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO is at the Forefront of Continuing Education for the Insurance Industry

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO is at the Forefront of Continuing Education for the Insurance Industry

Great for Real Estate Agents and P&C Insurance Licensed Professionals

SERVPRO offers complementary continuing education credits for insurance and real estate industry professionals.  Call today to find out when and where the next class is.

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

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Restoration and Remediation
• Restorative Drying for Loss Control
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar
  (non-credit course)

When we all work together for our clients, everyone wins. Striving for the most efficient and cost-effective restoration process is always the goal. SERVPRO is happy to offer CE credits in our specialty lines of business.

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield Employees are Well-Trained

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield Employees are Well-Trained

Back in 1992, SERVPRO Corporate developed a National Training Center to teach restoration and mitigation skills to Franchise Owners, employees, and insurance industry professionals.

The National Training Center offers employee training as a self paced program designed specifically for the franchise employee. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

SERVPRO is an approved IICRC (Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning) Training School that offers year-around classes in the following categories:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet Cleaning
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Applied Structural Drying

In addition, SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield is bio hazard and mold certified as well. Click HERE to view our full list of certifications and affiliations. 

Why SERVPRO – SERVPRO of Bloomington Richfield Has Been Locally Owned and Operated in Minneapolis for Years

3/19/2022 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO – SERVPRO of Bloomington Richfield Has Been Locally Owned and Operated in Minneapolis for Years

The owner of SERVPRO of Bloomington Richfield is a resident of the Minneapolis area himself and has been helping home and business owners in Minneapolis for over a decade. We have worked with all the insurance companies and know many of the agents. We are here to help not only you and your home/business, but Minneapolis as well. When Minneapolis is successful, we are all successful. We service the surrounding areas of: Bloomington, Richfield, Bloomington-Ferry, Penn-American District, Normandale Lake District, and more. Each franchise of SERVPRO of individually owned and operated. Click HERE to view our team and HERE to learn more about us and our many certifications, qualifications, and affiliations.

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield Understands That When It Comes to Business, Time is Money

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield Understands That When It Comes to Business, Time is Money

When SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield restores commercial spaces from water damage, mold, fire damage, and other damage, we understand that the longer a business cannot operate, the longer it cannot generate revenue. SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield  will work emergency hours and around the clock to get your business back up and running as fast as possible while working with your insurance company the entire way. No commercial job is too big or too involved for SERVPRO. Is your business open to the public during the day? We can come at night.  We are flexible, faster to any size disaster and are here to help. To learn more about SERVPRO commercial restoration click HERE or call today to learn more.

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield Can Help Get Rid of Odors in Your Home or Business

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield Can Help Get Rid of Odors in Your Home or Business

Did you have a water damage that has left your home with a bad smell? Do you have smoke damage in your home from a fire or from cigarettes? SERVPRO of Bloomington Richfield can take care of that musty, smoky, or foul smell in your home or business.  Are you smelling a musty smell that may point to hidden mold in the walls or behind the sink? Whatever odor is in your home, SERVPRO of Bloomington Richfield can help you identify it and get rid of it. SERVPRO uses air movers, ionizers, and industrial grade cleaning solutions to clean, sanitize, and remove odors from your home or business. SERVPRO of Bloomington Richfield will help to make it "Like it never even happened." Call today to get the process started.

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield offers Continuing Education for the Insurance and Real Estate Industries

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield offers Continuing Education for the Insurance and Real Estate Industries

SERVPRO Bloomington / Richfield offers complementary continuing education credits for insurance and real estate industry professionals.  Call today to find out when and where the next class is.

SERVPRO Bloomington / Richfield offers both credit and noncredit courses for: real estate professionals, insurance adjusters, insurance agents, and franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. Courses include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Restoration and Remediation
• Restorative Drying for Loss Control
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)

When we all work together for our clients, everyone wins. Striving for the most efficient and cost-effective restoration process is always the goal. SERVPRO Bloomington / Richfield is happy to offer CE credits in our specialty lines of business.

Minneapolis Area - Are you Storm Aware?

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

As we continue to see storms throughout our Bloomington and Richfield area cities, we at SERVPRO® of Bloomington and Richfield want you to be aware of what the different threat levels mean so that you can be prepared for whatever happens. 

• Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

• Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

• Flood Watch: Be Prepared: A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

• Flood Advisory: Be Aware: An Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

If your home or commercial building ever suffers flood damage, call the SERVPRO® of Bloomington and Richfield experts.

Source: Weather Gov Online

Preventing Water Damage to Your Business' Space

1/16/2022 (Permalink)

1. Find out if your business is located on a flood plain and if your area offers programs for business owners.
2. Train all employees on the location of the water shut off valves and make sure they are easily accessible.
3. Conduct regular inspections of your HVAC units, roof, water heaters, refrigerators, sinks, toilets, and any other area you have that may have a water leak.
4. Make sure your insurance policy is up to date and you are insured.
5. Keep any paperwork, inventory, or anything vital to your business' survival at least a few feet off the ground to prevent them from getting wet.
6. Have a game plan set in place. The faster the water is removed and dried out, the better off you are going to be. Time is an important factor. Please save our number to your phone so you know who to call. SERVPRO® of Bloomington / Richfield: (952) 854-2000

Why is My Refrigerator Leaking and How to Fix It

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Why is My Refrigerator Leaking Water?

Reason #1 - A Blocked Drain

A blocked defrost drain is one of the most common causes of water leakage. This happens when food particles or other debris clogs up the drain hose, which can lead to ice buildup and, eventually, water leaking out of the freezer and refrigerator.

Fix: First, try flushing the drain from inside the freezer with warm water, using a turkey baster or a small funnel. You can also try using a pipe cleaner or a straightened coat hanger to forcibly remove the clog. If this doesn't fix the problem you may need to manually remove the debris that is clogging the check valve at the end of the drain hose.

Reason #2  - A Clogged or Frozen Water Line

From time to time, a clogged or frozen water supply line will cause water to puddle beneath the refrigerator. It will also affect ice production from the ice maker and slow or stop water flow from the dispenser.

Fix: First, unplug the refrigerator and locate the shut-off valve, typically underneath the sink, behind the refrigerator, or below the refrigerator in the basement. Make sure this valve is closed, and look for any leaks, kinks, or clogs in the plastic supply line.

If you have encountered water damage due to a leaky refrigerator, call SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield right away: (952) 854-2000

Preventing Mold in Ventilation Systems in Buildings

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Ventilation systems should be checked regularly, particularly for damp filters and overall cleanliness. A preventive maintenance plan should be put into place for each major component of the building’s ventilation system. Contact your equipment supplier or manufacturer for recommended maintenance schedules and operations and maintenance manuals. Components that are exposed to water (e.g., drainage pans, coils, cooling towers, and humidifiers) require scrupulous maintenance to prevent microbial 10 growth and the entry of undesired microorganisms or chemicals into the indoor air stream.

The components of these systems may become contaminated with mold if moisture is present within the system, resulting in the potential release of mold spores throughout the building. All components of the system must be cleaned. Failure to clean a component of a contaminated system can result in re-contamination of the entire system. Water-damaged or contaminated porous materials in the ductwork or other air handling system components should be removed and replaced. 

SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield is here to help. Call us today.

Source: OSHA 2019

Keeping Trees Trimmed to Avoid Storm Damage

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Trees in our yards are beautiful, help to prevent water damage to our homes, and provide the relief of shade.  As healthy as a tree can be, often larger trees can have dead limbs that require trimming.  When trees are not properly trimmed, dead limbs are very susceptible to breaking off during a storm, causing storm damage to our homes or places of business. SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield has received multiple calls this storm season from homeowners who have suffered storm damage due to a tree limb through their window or roof. When this happens, it is important to board the roof or window as quickly as possible after the storms have passed and to call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield for restoration right away.

Available to take your call 24/7 and here to help.

What You Can Do Outside to Avoid Water Damage Inside

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Be careful with the species of trees you plant. Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

Another big culprit that causes water damage is clogged gutters. You know it’s on your to-do list anyway, so if you can, take a safe climb up to your roof and check out your gutters. If you’re seeing lots of leaves, birds’ nests, sticks, and debris up there, your gutters may not be doing the job they are supposed to. And on a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some serious water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. And if your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check them.

Overflowing Toilet – What to Do

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

An overflowing toilet is a problem everyone will likely deal with at some point. When water overflows from the bowl, chances are the culprit is a clogged toilet drain—usually an easy fix with some basic tools.

First, turn off the toilet’s water supply, on the wall behind the toilet. If you can’t find the water supply to stop the toilet overflowing, take the top off the tank and lift the float ball or cup high enough to stop the water from running. If that does not work, the shut off valve for the water supply to the house is generally located near the water heater.

Should overflow continue once the main water supply is off, you’re dealing with sewage backup, a serious situation due to the hazardous nature of the sewage water. If you are on a municipal septic system, you may need to call the city. If you have a septic tank, you’ll need a plumbing company that can flush out your system.

If you have suffered water damage in your bathroom due to an overflowing toilet, please give us a call today at SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield. We are here to help and will work with your insurance every step of the way. 

Christmas Tree Safety

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

Like candle fires, Christmas tree fires are more common during the holidays, with 43% occurring in December and 39% in January. The NFPA says an average of 230 fires are attributed to Christmas trees each year and they are more likely to be serious because of the factors that can contribute to the fire: a dry tree, electrical lights, and an abundant fuel supply (gifts) under the tree. Christmas tree fires cause an average of $18.3 million in property damage each year.

The most common causes are electrical failures (32%), having the tree too close to a heat source like a fireplace or wood stove (17%) or being too close to candles (7%).

Safety tips:

• Keep live trees well watered and dispose of them before they become dry.
• Turn off tree lights before leaving the house or going to bed.
• Check lights for any shorts or other electrical issues before putting them on the tree.

Source: National Fire Protection Association Online

How To Prevent Ice Dams

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Ice dams (and icicles) form when the snow melts, runs down your roof and refreezes near the edge. This only occurs when part of your roof warms to above 32 degrees F, warm enough to melt the snow, while the roof edge remains below freezing. This scenario is often the result of a warm attic. In most homes, heat escapes through ceilings into the attic and warms the wood and shingles directly above it. Although the outdoor temperature is below freezing, the snow melts over the warmed section of roof. When the melted snow runs down the roof, it hits the cold edge not warmed by the attic. There it freezes, creating a rim of ice. This rim can grow, trap more water behind it, and bingo—you have a full-fledged ice dam.

The key to preventing ice dams is simply to keep your attic and roof cold. After a snowfall, a cold roof will have a thick blanket of snow. A warmer roof, however, will soon have clear spots where the snow has melted off, and may well have icicles hanging from the eaves.

Source: Family Handy Man

Fire Safety and Prevention for your Business

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

A fire can cause severe damage to business equipment, materials, and structures. As a business owner, focusing on fire risk assessment, fire prevention, and staff education can help reduce your chance of fire and smoke damage. Here are three tips to help:

Assess the risk of fire hazards : The National Fire Protection Association offers handbooks and other publications on the fire safety code in place for businesses. If your local government offers it, a visit from a fire marshal is a great step for your fire prevention plan. If a marshal visit isn't available, ask for workplace fire risk assessment guidance from your building's property manager.

Have fire protection equipment : If you have an automatic sprinkler system in place, this will provide primary fire protection for your business.

Standard fire safety practices call for smoke detectors and fire extinguishers on every floor. Your best bet is multipurpose extinguishers, which will douse most small fires with ease, without shorting out your electronics.

Protect your people : Your employees are your most important business asset. These tips can help prevent them from being injured in a fire.

• Fire Plan : Make sure your employees know what to do if there's a fire, including calling 911 immediately. Conduct a fire drill at least once a year to keep employees aware of your workplace fire safety protocol. 
• Evacuation Plan : In larger buildings, post a fire evacuation plan in several spots around the workplace. Never include elevators in an evacuation plan; always use the stairs. 
• First Aid : In case of fire injuries, your employees should be familiar with the location of the first-aid kit, which should be kept where possible hazards can occur most-such as in the kitchen.

If your business has suffered fire damage or smoke damage, please call the certified professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield today. We are open 24 hours to take your call and will work seamlessly with your insurance. 

Source: www.statefarm.com

Lightning During Storms and House Fires Resulting

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

Unlike other types of house fires, which occur more frequently in the winter months, fires in the home caused by lightning are more likely to happen in June, July and August in the late afternoon or early evening. From 2007-2011, NFPA says there were an average of 22,600 fires per year caused by lightning strikes.  Lightning is responsible for a number of wildfires as well.

Lightning during storms poses the greatest risk outdoors and frequently strikes the highest point on a structure.

Safety tips During Lightning Storms: 

• When possible, stay away from doors and windows during an electrical storm.
• Do not use corded phones, computers, TVs or other electrical equipment during storms.
• Unplug major electronics – TVs, stereo equipment, computers and microwaves to minimize damage if there is a lightning strike close by.
• Avoid plumbing such as sinks, baths and faucets during a thunderstorm as metal plumbing is an excellent conductor of electricity.

Source: National Fire Protection Association

Three Tips on How to Prevent Ice Dams this Winter by Keeping Your Roof Cold

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

1. Close up attic bypasses
   In the average home, about one-third of the heat loss is through the ceiling into the attic. Most of that loss comes from air leaks caused by unblocked walls, gaps in drywall, and cracks around light fixtures, plumbing pipes, chimneys, access hatches and other ceiling penetrations. Air leaks can be tough to stop. You have to climb into your attic, pull or rake back insulation, and plug the leaks using foam, caulk and other methods. Low roof angles make some air leaks difficult to reach. This work is definitely a cool weather project; your attic will be unbearably hot otherwise. Always wear a dust mask, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants to help prevent skin irritations caused by insulation.
2. Measure your attic insulation level
   While you’re in the attic, check the depth of your attic insulation. Building codes require about 12 to 14 in. of fiberglass or cellulose. Add more if you have less than 8 in. and have had ice dam problems in the past. Blown-in cellulose and fiberglass are usually better than hand-placed batts, because they fill more tightly around rafters, joists and other obstructions, leaving fewer gaps. It’s usually worth hiring a professional for this job; you probably won’t save much by doing it yourself. However, if you can’t find a good price, you can rent a blowing machine from a rental yard or home center. Often, the use of the machine is free with the purchase of insulation.
3. Add roof and soffit vents
   Attic ventilation draws in cold outdoor air and flushes out warmer attic air, cooling the attic and the roof in the process. The minimum ventilation area (size of the openings) should be about 1 sq. ft. of vent per 300 sq. ft. of ceiling area (attic floor area), when half the vent area is low on the roof and half is high. Add enough so their ventilating area is about equal to the area of soffit vents. This might deliver a whole lot more ventilation than the minimum requirement, but don’t worry. You’re unlikely to have too much ventilation.

Source: Family Handy Man

SERVPRO is "Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certified"

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is "Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certified"

Do you need upholstery cleaning or carpet cleaning for your business?  SERVPRO cleans upholstery for general cleaning , pet dander, smoke damage, office carpet tile, and more. 

The IICRC is a certification and Standards Developing Organization (SDO) non-profit organization for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. In partnership with regional and international trade associates, the IICRC serves more than 25 countries.

The IICRC works with other organizations to increase awareness of certified firms – from companies like Shaw, which requires warranty work be done by an IICRC Certified Firm, to associations, to government officials. Additionally, the IICRC also partners with the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA) to include a suggestion for use of IICRC Certified Firms that specialize in upholstery cleaning in its Furniture Care Codes.

When you see a IICRC logo, you can be confident that an IICRC-certified experienced, qualified professional is caring for your valuable property.

Source: http://www.IICRC.org

Deep Cleaning Industrial Kitchens

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield would like to deep clean and sanitize your industrial kitchen! Whether your building is a restaurant, a school, a church, an office, a cafeteria, or even a movie theater, chances are it's been a minute since the kitchen has had a full deep cleaning and sanitization.  The flooring is cleaned and sanitized along with all surfaces and storage areas.  Today, it's more important than ever to keep food preparation and storage surfaces clean and sanitized. Customers and patrons have been more and more demanding of a clean restaurant and/or industrial kitchen. In addition to cleaning the flooring, and the food prep and storage surfaces, SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield employees will move large appliances to the best of their abilities and even clean behind those as well. Call today to schedule. SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield, Here to Help. 

Entering Your Home After a Storm, Hurricane, or Tornado

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

Entering your home or business after severe storm damage can be risky… roofs can collapse, glass from shattered windows will be on surfaces and floors.  Cleaning up after major storm damage can mean facing: contaminated water, animals and insects, splintered wood and sagging ceilings. It is best to let the professionals who are trained and certified to work in these storm damage environments handle the damage restoration. However, according to the American Red Cross, if you absolutely must enter your home or business, be sure to wear:

• Long pants

• Long sleeved shirt

• Sturdy shoes or boots (no tennis shoes or flip flops)

• Work gloves

• Eye protection

• Disposable masks

• Hard hats

Whether it’s for your home or for your business, for more information on storm damage restoration from SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield, click HERE.

We are here to help, Minneapolis / Twin Cities.

 Source: Red Cross Online

Shopping for Water Heaters

9/18/2021 (Permalink)

Shopping for a new water heater, Minneapolis area?

The installation of your home’s water heater is an important decision. There are many factors to consider:

• Tanked vs. tankless water heater
• The right water heater for your household size
• Best location for your heater (where to install it)
• Gas or electric
• How big of a water heater is needed

If you decided on a tanked water heater, you may ask yourself, how big of a water heater do I need? Determining factors will be the size of your family and the utilities available in your home. Use this simple guide to determine your water heater size needs:

• Family size 1-2: 30-gallon heater
• Family size 2-3: 40-gallon heater
• Family size 3-4: 40-50-gallon heater
• Family size 5 or more: 50-80-gallon heater

Source: Zine Trip Online

The Importance of Proper Smoke Remediation after Smoke or Fire Damage to your Minneapolis area Home

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire in a home it's very possible that contaminating smoke has touched every item and area in your home. In smoke, there are residual amounts of chemicals and other bi-products due to burning plastics and other chemical-based items in your home that may have burned in the fire.  Those residual chemicals have been transferred by the smoke and is now left on your walls, furniture, floors, personal items, and other contents in your home.  Even things like your light bulbs in your lamps must be decontaminated or disposed of properly.

It's important to remove and remediate the items in the home that were exposed to the fire and smoke so that they do not further contaminate your home.  The residual amounts of chemicals and other bi-products can irritate: eyes, lungs, skin, and other parts of the body.

SERVPRO® of Bloomington / Richfield uses special equipment, techniques, and cleaning products to remove the smoke and soot from your home and salvageable contents. SERVPRO® of Bloomington / Richfield will also remove the odors using our industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment. In most cases, air ducts will need to be cleaned as well along with new HVAC filters installed.

Higher Than Normal Water Bill

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Why is my water bill so high this month?

With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.

It's very common for us at SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield to get a call from a homeowner who has found mold behind his/her dishwasher or mold behind his/her sink because of a slow leak from a pipe in their walls that has gone undetected for quite some time. It's always a good idea to take care of any water leak as soon as possible in order to prevent mold from forming in addition to water damage restoration.

If you have found a leak in your kitchen or bathroom and need water damage restoration, please call the certified professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield today: 952-854-2000

The #1 Cause of House Fires

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Cooking is the Number One Cause of House Fires, According to the National Fire Protection Association

The number one source of house fires is cooking – usually leaving pots or pans unattended on the stove while you run away to do something for “just a minute.” The NFPA says that 40% of all house fires, or an average of 156,600 per year, start this way, causing approximately $853 million in property damage. Two-thirds of the fires started because the food or other materials caught fire.

Fires are more likely to start on a range (57%) as compared to the oven (16%), mainly due to frying. Most injuries occur when the cook tried to put out the fire.

Safety tips:

• Be alert when cooking and don’t leave food unattended.
• Don’t throw water on a grease fire, instead put a lid on the pan to smother the fire.
• Keep clothing, pot holders, paper towels and other flammable items away from the stove.
• Have working smoke detectors in the house and keep a fire extinguisher nearby just in case.

Sources: National Fire Prevention Association

How Quickly Does Mold Grow After Water Damage

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Maybe you had a water leak from a plumbing problem or from a leaky refrigerator. Maybe we had a major storm or tornado sweep through the Minneapolis area. Either way, now your home has water damage. Depending on how severe the water damage, you are probably asking yourself, “Should I clean up the water damage myself or hire a professional?”.  The following are a couple things to consider. First, hopefully, the water damage will be covered by your insurance company. SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield works with all insurance companies in the area and knows what each company is looking for (this will make things easier on you). Second, if the area is not properly and completely dried out, even in the areas you cannot see, the structure will more than likely suffer secondary damage. What is secondary damage? Mold growing in your home is known as secondary damage after a water damage event. Mold needs moister to grown and it can grow within 24-48 hours.  Time is a factor after a water damage. If mold is already growing in your home after a water damage, SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield can remediate that as well. We are here to help. Give us a call today!

Who to Call When Your Basement Floods

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield Specialize in Basement Floods Clean-Up and Restoration

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

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

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

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

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

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

Smoke Damage in the Kitchen from a Kitchen Fire in Richfield

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Cooking is the #1 cause of fires in the home; specifically, fires that originate from the stove.  Even when the fire is caught early, the smoke damage that it causes can be devastating to a home. Even burning food in the oven can cause considerable smoke damage. The smoke odor gets trapped in the curtains, sofas, on the walls, and other places in the home.  SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield is IICR Certified to clean, deodorize, and sanitize upholstery, furniture, and carpeting. In addition, SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield has a tried and true process of eliminating the strong odor of smoke from the air using deodorizers and ionizing machines.

To learn more about smoke damage remediation from SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield, please click here.

Please call us today to get the process started: (952) 854-2000

Happy 4th of July from SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield!

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

We have restored many fire damages this time of year and would like to share some fireworks safety tips to help keep you and your families safe over the holiday weekend.

• Fireworks packaged in brown paper are made for professional displays – avoid buying.
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities, especially with sparklers.
• Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire and to douse used fireworks before discarding in trash.
• Never allow young children to play or ignite fireworks.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• Never try to re-light or pickup fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Never place a part of your body directly over a firework device when lighting.
• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

Source: CPSC online

SERVPRO® of Bloomington / Richfield Will Work with Your Business' Insurance Company

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

The owner of SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield has been a SERVPRO owner in the Minneapolis area for over 20 years now. There is not much our employees haven't seen and restored. No job is too big or too involved. We have worked with nearly all the area's business insurance companies over the years and have developed great working relationships with each. When you trust your business to the certified professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield, you are in good hands before, during, and after the restoration. Whatever insurance company you have: State Farm, Hiscox, Allstate, Hartford, Travelers, etc, SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield will make sure they have everything they need for your business insurance claim. Call today for restoration/remediation/clean up completed by certified professionals. Here to Help

Fire Classifications

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

There are five different classes of fires, each designated by a letter.

Class A: The most common type of fire, Class A fires have combustibles that include paper, wood, cloth, plastic, trash and other ordinary materials that may be found in any home or business.

Class B: Fires caused by flammable liquids are considered Class B fires. These flammable liquids include gasoline, paint and oil. A Class B fire may also include combustibles such as propane or butane, which are flammable gases.

Class C: Electrical fires are Class C fires and include fires that originate from outlets, wires and other electrical components.

Class D: Any fire caused by combustible metals such as magnesium, sodium, aluminum and potassium, also known as chemical fires, are Class D.

Class K: Combustibles such as cooking oils, grease and fats are Class K fires.

If your home or business has experience a fire, please call SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield for a professional restoration. We will work with your insurance and are here to help! 

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO® Will Work with Your Insurance

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

In the unfortunate event your home or business suffers: water damage, fire damage, mold damage, or bio-hazard clean up needs,  SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield will work seamlessly with your insurance company.  This means less hassle and less worry for you. Our employees talk with insurance adjusters every day to make sure things are billed correctly with your insurance and the job is properly documented to ensure things are going according to plan. Having been in business for over a decade in the Twin Cities area, whatever property and casualty insurance you or your company uses, odds are we have worked with them in the past.  If you need the job done right with less hassle for you, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield. (952) 854-2000

We are here to help!

Why SERVPRO - SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield Mold Technicians are Mold Certified

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

Are you smelling mildew or a musty odor in your home or business?  Can you visually see mold growth? SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield can perform your mold remediation removal process using a Mold Certified Technician so you know it's done right. Mold remediation means the removal, cleaning, sanitizing, demolition, or other treatment, including preventive activities, of mold or mold-contaminated matter. The industry is regulated to ensure that persons conducting mold assessment and remediation services are properly trained and licensed, and are following minimum standards that protect the health of workers and building occupants. Please do not hesitate to give SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield a call today to set up a time to start the mold remediation process. (952) 854-2000

We are open 24/7 to take your call and are here to help.

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO is Faster to Disaster

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bloomington and Richfield offers a 24 hour emergency service.  Our office is open Monday through Friday, however there will always be someone to answer your call after hours and on the weekends.  If the event is classified as an emergency, SERVPRO of Bloomington and Richfield will be out right away regardless of time or day.  When hurricanes, floods, wild fires, and other disasters strike all around the country, SERVPRO franchises band together and travel sometimes thousands of miles to come to the disaster area to help restore homes and businesses affected. If there is a catastrophic event in the Twin Cities area, SERVPRO will call in "extreme teams" that will arrive here in Minnesota to help cover more ground and to help more home and business owners. If your home or business has suffered a water damage or other emergency event, please do not hesitate to call. We band together!

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO Tests for What You Can’t See

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Do you smell mildew or mold in your home or business, but cannot visibly see it? Do you suspect water damage in your ceiling or walls? Before your ceiling and walls deteriorate, call SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield. We can test for what you can’t see. We use industrial moisture detecting devices to help us detect water in walls, ceilings, floor boards, etc. Hidden moisture will cause mold in time and become an even bigger problem.

Would you like the help of SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield to detect water or mold damage or for any other type of cleaning or restoring? Click HERE to learn more or give us a call today at: (952) 854-2000

SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield is available 24/7 for emergency service and is Here to Help.

Why SERVPRO?  SERVPRO is Hazmat and Bio Hazard Removal Trained

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Bio hazard clean up is considered: blood clean up, urine clean up, human feces clean up, animal feces clean up, vomit clean up, and other human fluids.  General maid and janitorial services will not remove these items due to their potentially hazardous nature.  SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield technicians are trained and properly uniformed to safely remove bio hazardous materials. This is why you can rely on SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield to get the job done quickly, safely, and to sanitation standards.  Many homes and buildings that have been left unattended and/or improperly cared for will generally require this type of service. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield will remove all hazardous items and properly dispose of them. If you or your business is in need of bio hazard removal, please do not hesitate to call today.

Why SERVPRO?  SERVPRO Uses Industrial Grade Equipment and Cleaning Products on your Home or Business

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business has suffered a water damage event, simply cleaning up the water and opening up the windows will not completely dry the space, leaving your home or business vulnerable to future mold growth (known as secondary damage).  SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield uses industrial grade dehumidifiers and fans to completely dry your home or business.  SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield uses moisture testing devices to make sure your walls, closets, and floors are dry before we leave your home and close out the job.  In addition to drying, commercial grade anti-fungal treatments are applied in order to prevent mold from forming.

If your home or business has suffered a fire damage event, air scrubbers are brought in to the area to "scrub" the air clean and remove the chemical and smoke odor. In addition to air scrubbers, special cleaning agents are used to save as many smoke-affected items as possible in your home or business.

If your home or business has suffered a water damage, fire damage, or mold growth event, please do not hesitate to call us today.

HVAC and Electrical Fires in Commercial Buildings

1/17/2021 (Permalink)

HVAC System Malfunction

Roughly 9% of fires happen when an HVAC system malfunctions. This includes central heating systems, as well as water heaters, space heaters, and other appliances.

Heating systems should be regularly inspected, especially during winter when they are used most heavily. And always ensure flammable materials are kept well away from heat sources. Areas where the main HVAC system is housed, as well as any water heaters or storage rooms, should be outfitted with smoke alarms.

Electrical Malfunction

About 7% of fires are linked to an electrical system malfunction, often due to problems with wiring in the building. These fires are more likely to occur in older buildings with questionable wiring. Make sure your building is regularly inspected.

If your Minneapolis area building has suffered fire damage, you can trust the certified technicians at SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield to restore the fire and smoke damage. We will work with your insurance every step of the way and make the process smooth and quick for your business.

Source: Smoke Guard Online

What Secondary Damage can occur after Storm Damage?

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

After roof leaks or flood damage, if not properly dried and treated, a home or business can develop mold from the moisture left on: wood, tile, carpeting, windows, concrete, and/or other materials/items that were affected.  SERVPRO of Bloomington and Richfield strives to prevent secondary damage every time we remediate storm damage. Building material and flooring are dried and treated to prevent mold and other allergens/contaminates using specialized equipment and cleaning products.

If storm damage is not properly treated, the perfect environment is created for mold spores to grow in your home and to contaminate the air that is breathed.

Should you ever suffer water damage due to: excessive rain, storm damage, leaky roof, flood damage, a water heater leak, sink overflow, fire, refrigerator leak, or any other reason water has invaded your home or business, please know that SERVPRO of Bloomington and Richfield is here to help.  Faster to Any Disaster

Causes of Refrigerator Leaks

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Maybe your water alarm alerted you, maybe you see a puddle or some dripping, or maybe you see some signs of water damage (corrosion, water stains, etc.). Once you’ve discovered a leak, consider the possible causes.

Blocked defroster. A blocked defroster can stop defrost-cycle water from draining properly. Try clearing out the small drain by pouring hot water into it. Remove any debris with a pipe cleaner.

Drain pan. Sometimes the drain pan itself can leak. Check for cracks.

Filter. Refrigerators with filters can leak if the filter is the wrong size or not installed properly.

Water line. This is potentially the most problematic. Refrigerators with ice makers or water dispensers have water lines running between the main water supply and the back of the fridge. Feel to see if the water line is wet or dripping. Cracked hoses and loose connections are often the culprit.

Refrigerator leaks can damage the flooring and cabinets in your kitchen.  If you experience a refrigerator leak, please contact us right away to treat and help to prevent any further damage.

Source: ER Plumbing Online

Learning About Smoke Alarms

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. If there is a fire in your home, smoke spreads fast and you need smoke alarms to give you time to escape your home. 

Here's what you need to know:

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside.
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.

Source: NFPA

Keep Your Minneapolis Area Roof Cold in Order to Prevent Ice Dams this Winter

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Ice dams (and icicles) form when the snow melts, runs down your roof and refreezes near the edge. This only occurs when part of your roof warms to above 32° F, warm enough to melt the snow, while the roof edge remains below freezing. This scenario is often the result of a warm attic. In most homes, heat escapes through ceilings into the attic and warms the wood and shingles directly above it. Although the outdoor temperature is below freezing, the snow melts over the warmed section of roof. When the melted snow runs down the roof, it hits the cold edge not warmed by the attic. There it freezes, creating a rim of ice. This rim can grow, trap more water behind it, and bingo—you have a full-fledged ice dam.

The key to preventing ice dams is simply to keep your attic and roof cold. After a snowfall, a cold roof will have a thick blanket of snow. A warmer roof, however, will soon have clear spots where the snow has melted off, and may well have icicles hanging from the eaves.

Source: Family Handy Man

Three Tips on How to Prevent Ice Dams this Winter by Keeping Your Roof Cold

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

1. Close up attic bypasses
   In the average home, about one-third of the heat loss is through the ceiling into the attic. Most of that loss comes from air leaks caused by unblocked walls, gaps in drywall, and cracks around light fixtures, plumbing pipes, chimneys, access hatches and other ceiling penetrations. Air leaks can be tough to stop. You have to climb into your attic, pull or rake back insulation, and plug the leaks using foam, caulk and other methods. Low roof angles make some air leaks difficult to reach. This work is definitely a cool weather project; your attic will be unbearably hot otherwise. Always wear a dust mask, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants to help prevent skin irritations caused by insulation.
2. Measure your attic insulation level
   While you’re in the attic, check the depth of your attic insulation. Building codes require about 12 to 14 in. of fiberglass or cellulose. Add more if you have less than 8 in. and have had ice dam problems in the past. Blown-in cellulose and fiberglass are usually better than hand-placed batts, because they fill more tightly around rafters, joists and other obstructions, leaving fewer gaps. It’s usually worth hiring a professional for this job; you probably won’t save much by doing it yourself. However, if you can’t find a good price, you can rent a blowing machine from a rental yard or home center. Often, the use of the machine is free with the purchase of insulation.
3. Add roof and soffit vents
   Attic ventilation draws in cold outdoor air and flushes out warmer attic air, cooling the attic and the roof in the process. The minimum ventilation area (size of the openings) should be about 1 sq. ft. of vent per 300 sq. ft. of ceiling area (attic floor area), when half the vent area is low on the roof and half is high. Add enough so their ventilating area is about equal to the area of soffit vents. This might deliver a whole lot more ventilation than the minimum requirement, but don’t worry. You’re unlikely to have too much ventilation.

Source: Family Handy Man Online

SERVPRO® of Bloomington / Richfield will Deep Clean your Restaurant

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Obviously, a restaurant's preparation areas should be kept clean. But, besides the everyday cleaning of kitchen equipment and appliances, it is necessary to perform a deep cleaning of kitchens at least once to twice a year.

Appearance

A restaurant's: atmosphere, attention to detail, and well-kept facilities are important for a customer's good first impression. The appearance of a restaurant's kitchen can bring in clients as well as scare them away.

Safety

A messy and unorganized look will affect guests' appetites as well as employee productivity. Daily mopping sustains a clean floor, but will not scrub deeply enough to remove certain bacteria. Sticky floors and unwanted objects can cause personnel or guests to slip. For a truly clean floor, it is important to remove: grease, oil, gum and even mold.

For a deep cleaning of your restaurant, please call SERVPRO® of Bloomington / Richfield today!

Source: Yahoo Finance, Jan 2019

Using Sandbags for Floods

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

When the threat of a flood is close to your home or business, sandbags for flooding become as valuable as gold, yet they’re dirt cheap. There have been advancements with sandbags, which is great, thanks to water-activated sandbag which mimic the ability of real sand bags. Yes, they cost more, but are much quicker to implement in the case of a flood so the cost is negligible.

Sandbags for flooding are essential tools if you live in an area prone to flooding.  It is not advised to use other bags that are not intended for use as sandbags as they may not be as effective. Sandbags are constructed for the use of containing sand or soil to prevent or reduce the impact of water damage in the event of a flood. They are typically made with woven polypropylene or burlap sacks. Plastic garbage bags are slick and will not create a sturdy structure when stacked. Feed sacks, although made of similar materials to sandbags, are usually large and are also not practical for handling.

If your home or business has experienced a flood, please call the professionals of SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield right away – open 24 hours for emergency services and here to help!

Source: Chainshaw Journal. Jan 2020.

Office Disinfecting for COVID-19

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

Office Disinfecting for COVID-19

During these difficult times, please know that SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield is here to help your business. SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield will disinfect your business, office, restaurant, school, commercial building, and more! Was your commercial space contaminated with the virus? We can clean and disinfect for that! Would you like to assure your customers and employees that your commercial space has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected? We can help you with that! Deep cleanings. sanitation, and bio hazard removals have been services SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield has been offering for over a decade. We have the proper equipment and know how to do it safely and effectively. To learn more about Commercial Cleaning from SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield, call today for more information – we are here to help: (952) 854-2000.

Oct 4th - Oct 10th is Fire Prevention Week 2020

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Week 2020 in United States will begin on Sunday, October 4^th and end on Saturday, October 10^th. This year’s theme is all about fire safety in the kitchen. Since we are all home more in Minnesota in 2020, we are all home cooking more. In order to reduce the amount of kitchen fires in 2020, the National Fire Protection Association has named this year’s fire prevention week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!^TM”

Did you know?
Cooking is the #1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen.

3 Safety tips from the NFPA regarding kitchen fires:

1. Kitchen fires spread quickly. If you do have a cooking fire in the kitchen, get out immediately.
2. Never leave kitchen towels, oven mitts, or flammable items on top of or near the stove.
3. Never leave the kitchen when you are frying, boiling, or cooking food.

Source: NFPA.org

Refrigerator Leaking Water? Here Are Two Common Reasons Why

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

If your refrigerator is leaking water and causing water damage to your flooring it’s usually because if one of two reasons.

Reason #1 - Your Refrigerator's Defrost Drain

A blocked defrost drain is one of the most common causes of water leakage. This happens when food particles or other debris clogs up the drain hose, which can lead to ice buildup and, eventually, water leaking out of the freezer and refrigerator.

Fix: First, try flushing the drain from inside the freezer with warm water, using a turkey baster or a small funnel. You can also try using a pipe cleaner or a straightened coat hanger to forcibly remove the clog. If this doesn't fix the problem you may need to manually remove the debris that is clogging the check valve at the end of the drain hose.

Reason #2 - Your Refrigerator's Water Supply Line

From time to time, a clogged or frozen water supply line will cause water to puddle beneath the refrigerator. It will also affect ice production from the ice maker and slow or stop water flow from the dispenser.

Fix: First, unplug the refrigerator and locate the shut-off valve, typically underneath the sink, behind the refrigerator, or below the refrigerator in the basement. Make sure this valve is closed, and look for any leaks, kinks, or clogs in the plastic supply line.

Source: CNET online

Water Damage and Wood Floors

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

It doesn’t require a disaster of the scope of a spring flood or hurricane to damage a wood floor. Plumbing leaks, a leaky refrigerator line, a busted dishwasher, or the upstairs overflowing tub might pose problems for porous wood floors and substructures. Whatever the source, water causes wood floors to warp, and can trigger mold and mildew growth that can ruin wood as well. Major flooding creates problems in foundations and walls that must be addressed, but the first step in mitigating the damage done by water to a building -- including its wood floors -- is to gently, but quickly ventilate and dry materials.

SERVPRO® of Bloomington / Richfield uses commercial-grade machines that extract the water from the wood flooring with a powerful force.  If we are called immediately following a water damage event, there is a good possibility we can save your wood floors from buckling using the high-powered water extractors.  Don't hesitate to call right away.

Source: Homeguides Online

Certified SERVPRO Cleaned

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. It is a proactive viral pathogen cleaning. 

SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield has been cleaning, sanitizing, and removing Bio Hazard in both homes and businesses for over a decade. Deep cleaning is not new to us. 

Below are the Three "C's" of SERVPRO Certified Cleaned: 

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we’ll tailor a bespoke cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility.
• Clean: Based on the agreed plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.

So when you are walking around the Twin Cities area, when you see the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield sticker in the window, you know the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO Can Clean and Sanitize for COVID-19 Safely

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO Can Clean and Sanitize for COVID-19 Contamination Safely

SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield is HAZMAT and Bio Hazard removal certified. The industrial grade chemicals that SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield uses to clean, disinfect, and sanitize are high-grade and effective. If you are looking to have your business cleaned and sanitized, please give us a call today. If you are looking to have your business cleaned and sanitized after COVID-19 has infected your office, business, or commercial space, please give us a call today. Because we are HAZMAT certified, we are able to clean areas with known COVID-19 contaminations. SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield is available and here to help. We would also like to thank our community’s medical personnel and essential workers for helping us all to get through this time together.

Weather Alerts for Your Smartphone

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

If you are not currently receiving weather alerts on your smartphone, dial ##2627## on your phone to turn them on.

Search for "CMAS" or "WEA" in your phone's messaging settings. If neither of those are available, you might not have a phone that is WEA enabled. If that's the case, don't worry - you can still get emergency weather alerts with weather apps like the Weather Channel app or WeatherUSA.

WeatherUSA sends out real-time alerts to you every time there’s any weather-related warning in your area. They send these alerts out whenever they are released by any federal agency, including the National Weather Service. These alerts are sent across to the subscribers via SMS or email. You can choose to add your county or state for the local weather warnings.

For Android users, To meet the FCC standards, Android introduced “Emergency Broadcasts” features in all its mobiles. Through this service, you can get severe weather alerts instantly. Apart from these alerts, this feature also sends out an alert whenever there’s any emergency in your area.

You may also want to save the phone number for SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield in your phone as well in case the internet goes out during the storm and you end up with flooding in your home: (952) 854-2000.  Here to Help.

Source: USA Today Online

Emergency alerts on your Smartphone are a Proven Lifesaver

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) can save your life. Here's how it works: when the National Weather Service issues an urgent alert for a storm in your location, the system looks to see which cell phone towers are included in the storm’s area. All cell phone towers within the warning area send out an instant emergency alert to WEA-enabled devices. The alert plays the classic emergency alert tone and pushes a notification to your screen.

The great benefit to these alerts is that they only go off if you're in the area affected by hazardous weather. This helps remedy the problem of receiving false alarms for storms dozens of miles away on the other side of your county. If you receive an emergency alert on your smartphone, you know you need to take immediate action to keep yourself and your family safe. Wireless Emergency Alerts are pushed out for tornado warnings, flash flood warnings, hurricane warnings, dust storm warnings, extreme wind warnings, and local dangers such as AMBER Alerts and evacuation orders.

You may want to save the number for SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield in your phone as well for ease in case a damage restoration emergency occurs in your home or business during a storm: 952-854-2000 

Source: Forbes November 2018

Protecting Your Home Against Bad Storms

9/29/2019 (Permalink)

Protecting Your Home Against Bad Storms

Protect your roof. Consider hurricane straps to ensure your roof is bolted to the rest of your house. And inspect your roof tiles or shingles to make sure they are secure. Use roofing cement to fix any loose tiles to prevent them from becoming lethal projectiles during a storm and damaging the underlying roofing material. Seal any areas where wires enter the home, minimizing the chance of water damage during heavy wind and rain.

Trim your trees. Broken limbs could land on your (or your neighbor’s) roof/house or become missiles that can break windows during a storm. If your tree damages your house or a neighbor’s house, your insurance covers the damages, but it may pay only a portion.

If your home is damaged during a Minneapolis area storm, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield. Here to Help

Source: Kiplinger online

Keeping Gutters Clean to Prevent Water Damage

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

Ideally, gutters clear the water from your roof and move it safely away from your home. Clear gutters help to prevent leaky roofs, water damage to the attic, and water coming in through your home’s foundation.

Twice a year, it is very important to clear your home’s gutters. Leaves, seeds, twigs, mud, nests, and other debris can clog the gutters and prevent strong water flow.  When water has nowhere to go, it pools and can seep into areas it should not, which can cause water damage to your home. If you do not feel you can safely perform the job yourself, please hire out the job to a professional.

If your home has suffered water damage, please call SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield today to remove the water and dry out the area in order to prevent further damage.

Fire Prevention Week is October 6th - 12th, 2019

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

Plan and Practice Your Escape

The theme this year is how to be a hero simply by planning your family's escape and having a fire safety plan in place.  In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have,giving everyone enough time to get out.

Fire safety education isn’t just for school children. Teenagers, adults, and the elderly are also at risk in fires, making it important for every member of the community to take some time every October during Fire Prevention Week to make sure they understand how to stay safe in case of a fire.

When it comes to fire safety, maybe you’re already a hero in your household or community. If not, maybe you’re feeling inspired to become one. It's easy to take that first step - make your home escape plan.

Source: NFPA

Fire safety in manufactured homes

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

Safety tips

To increase fire safety in manufactured homes, NFPA offers the following guidelines:

• Choose a HUD-certified manufactured home
  If you are in the market to purchase or rent a manufactured home, select a home built after 1976 that bears the HUD label certifying compliance with safety standards.
• Make sure you have enough functioning smoke alarms
  If your older manufactured home does not have smoke alarms in or near every sleeping room and in or near the family/living area(s), immediately install new alarms and fresh batteries to protect these rooms.  For the best protection, interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Plan your escape
  Know ahead of time how you will get out if you have a fire. Make sure you can open and get out of windows and doors. All post-HUD Standard manufactured homes are required to provide windows designed for use as secondary escape routes for the bedroom. Familiarize yourself with their operation and don't block access to them.  Immediately fix any windows that have been painted or nailed shut, doors that are stubborn or "stuck," and locks that are difficult to operate. Security bars or grates over windows or doors should have quick-release devices installed inside, which allow you to open them in an emergency. Hold a fire drill twice a year to rehearse how you will react if the smoke alarm sounds.
• Electrical
  Hire a licensed electrician if you notice flickering lights, frequent blown circuits, or a "hot" smell when using electricity. Use extension cords for temporary convenience, not as a permanent solution. Avoid overloading electrical receptacles (outlets). Electrical cords should not be run under carpets or rugs, as the wires can be damaged by foot traffic, then overheat and ignite the carpet or rug over them.
• Heating
  Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn. When purchasing new space heaters, select appliances with automatic shut-off switches. Kerosene heaters are illegal for home use in some jurisdictions. Check with your local fire department before purchasing a kerosene heater. Turn off portable space heaters before falling asleep or when leaving the room. Refill kerosene heaters outdoors, after the heater has cooled down. Supervise children and pets when space heaters are operating. 

Source: NFPA

Smoke Damage After a Kitchen Fire

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke Damage After a Kitchen Fire

According to the NFPA, cooking is the #1 cause of fires in the home; specifically, fires that originate from the stove.  Even when the fire is caught early, that smoke damage that it causes can be devastating to a home.  The smoke odor gets trapped in the curtains, sofas, on the walls, and other places in the home.  SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield is IICR Certified to clean, deodorize, and sanitize upholstery. In addition, SERVPRO of Bloomington / Richfield has a tried and true process of eliminating the strong odor of smoke from the air using deodorizers and ionizing machines to "clean" the air as well.

To learn more about smoke damage remediation, click here.

Please call us today to get the process started.

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO is "Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certified"

3/23/2019 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO is "Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certified"

If you or your business has suffered a water damage, fire damage, mold damage, or bio hazard damage, odds are it has affected some sort of fabric or textile in your home.  The IICRC is a certification and Standards Developing Organization (SDO) non-profit organization for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. In partnership with regional and international trade associates, the IICRC serves more than 25 countries.

When you see a IICRC logo, you can be confident that an IICRC-certified experienced, qualified professional is caring for your valuable property.

Do you need upholstery cleaning or carpet cleaning for your home or business performed by a company that is IICRC certified?  SERVPRO  of Bloomington/Richfield cleans upholstery for general cleaning , pet dander, smoke damage, office carpet tile, and more. 

Source: http://www.IICRC.org

Storm damage prevention and treatment: reducing damage from storms with preventive action using horticulture

1/19/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage prevention and treatment: reducing damage from storms with preventive action using horticulture

Damage to trees from storms can be minimized by designing and implementing a tree management plan. Designing and executing a plan can help prevent problems.  There is no doubt trees can cause damage and be damaged in storms. However, appropriately placed and well-maintained trees can help to reduce storm damage to structures by deflecting wind, as well as reduce damage to the tree itself. Appropriate actions include: proper placement and planting, structural pruning prior to the storm, and proper species selection. Actions in the weeks and years following a strong storm can help bring damaged trees back to health.

If your home or business is affected by a storm, don't hesitate to call the certified professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomington and Richfield. Faster to Any Disaster

Source: https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/woody/stormy.shtml

Keep an Eye on your Water Bill in Order to Detect Leaks

1/19/2019 (Permalink)

Keep an eye on your water bill in order to detect leaks

With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.

It's not uncommon for us to get a call from a homeowner who has mold behind their dishwasher or mold behind their sink because there has been a slow leak in a pipe in their walls. It's always a good idea to take care of any water leak as soon as possible in order to prevent mold from forming in addition to the water damage.

Avoiding Water and Pipes in your Home During a Storm

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

Avoiding Water and Pipes in your Home During a Storm

WATER & PIPES

People on or in or near water are among those most at risk for lighting strikes during thunderstorms, both inside and outside the home. Water is a good conductor of electricity, and many homes have metal pipes (themselves fantastic conductors ). Not only can lightning striking your home travel through your pipes but lightning can travel stealthily into your home through shared pipelines that have sustained strikes some distance away from your home. Do not take a bath or shower, wash your hands, do laundry, use an ice maker, or otherwise use running water when there is lightning danger in the area.

If your home has encountered an electrical fire, please call the certified professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomington and Richfield today to assess the damage and begin restoring your home. Faster to Any Disaster.

Source: https://homeguides.sfgate.com/

Call SERVPRO® of Bloomington and Richfield to Prevent Secondary Damage

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO® of Bloomington and Richfield to Prevent Secondary Damage

You have heard it said again and again: Time is money.

The old adage is never more true than when dealing with a water-damaged home or business. Every minute matters, because every minute the property remains wet could turn primary damage into secondary- or even permanent damage.  That's why emergency response matters.  

Secondary water damage occurs when the moisture from the primary event (flood, leak, etc.) begins to evaporate on its own into the air.  Over time the air will no longer be able to hold the moisture from the evaporation.  The moisture will have to go somewhere and a very basic principle behind psychometrics is that wet goes to dry.  The moisture may go into your drywall, cabinetry, sheetrock, hardwood floors, vinyl floors, etc.  Once the moisture is allowed to sit, mold can then begin to grow.  This is why emergency action is so incredibly important.

Call Today

Candles and House Fires, According to the National Fire Protection Association.

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

Candles and House Fires, According to the National Fire Protection Association.

Candles

From 2007-2011, the NFPA says there were an average of 10,630 fires in the U.S. that were started by candles, causing 115 deaths, 903 injuries and approximately $418 million in property damage. There are more candle fires in December and January; the top three days for fires are: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

About one-third of these fires started in bedrooms, causing 39% of the associated deaths and 45% of the associated injuries. More than half of all candle fires start because of candles that were left too close to flammable items.

Other causes of candle fires include leaving them unattended in a room or someone playing with the candles. Even something as simple as knocking a candle over when someone bumps a table they're sitting on or a pet brushing against one is enough to light a fire.

Source: National Fire Protection Association and http://www.propertycasualty360.com

How to Prevent Mold on Your Patio Furniture

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

How to Prevent Mold on Your Patio Furniture

If you’re hoping to save your current furniture or you’ve bought a new patio set and want to keep it from falling victim to the same problem, you can take steps to prevent mildew and mold. When purchasing new furniture, look for water-resistant fabrics and materials and check to see if the dyes used are also weather-resistant. Acrylic and polyester are usually the most durable. You can also waterproof your patio furniture yourself by purchasing a waterproofing kit at your local supply store.

Note that sunscreen and bug spray are known to soak into cushions, so always use a towel to sit on as added protection, and never sit down directly after coming out of the pool. If you do spill water or otherwise soil the furniture, clean it immediately, and do routine cleaning every few weeks. If you do not use your patio furniture year round, consider using furniture covers, or find a shed, garage or storage unit to house it during the off season.

Now that you know how to remove mold and mildew from patio furniture, you can clean up your chairs, table and umbrella to return it to good condition. You’ll be back to lounging out in the summer heat in no time.

Source: https://learn.livingdirect.com/patio-furniture-mold-removal/

Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certified

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bloomington and Richfield is "Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certified"

Do you need upholstery cleaning or carpet cleaning for your business? SERVPRO cleans upholstery for general cleaning , pet dander, smoke damage, office carpet tile, and more.

The IICRC is a certification and Standards Developing Organization (SDO) non-profit organization for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. In partnership with regional and international trade associates, the IICRC serves more than 25 countries.

TheIICRC works with other organizations to increase awareness of certified firms – from companies like Shaw, which requires warranty work be done by an IICRC Certified Firm, to associations, to government officials. Additionally, theIICRC also partners with the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA) to include a suggestion for use of IICRC Certified Firms that specialize in upholstery cleaning in its Furniture Care Codes.

When you see aIICRClogo, you can be confident that an IICRC-certified experienced, qualified professional is caring for your valuable property.

Source: http://www.IICRC.org

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU COMPLETED THESE FIRE PREVENTION TASKS FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

10/29/2018 (Permalink)

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU COMPLETED THESE FIRE PREVENTION TASKS FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

You’ve heard all of the preventative steps, you’ve prepped your employees, and your building is up to code. However, the easiest prevention methods are usually the most overlooked. Inspect these things today and be sure to set reminders accordingly:

• Smoke Detectors. Safety experts say that you should check these at least once a month and replace the batteries once a year, or as needed.
• Fire Extinguishers. See the directions on your fire extinguisher to see when it expires and who you can call to replace your extinguishers. Extinguishers can last anywhere from five to fifteen years. Also, depending on your fire marshal’s standards, you may have to have your extinguisher certified.
• Fire Exits and Exit Signs. Can guests clearly see exit signs? Can they easily get to them? Consider having a fire drill to ensure guests and employees can easily get out of the building in the event of an emergency. Practice regularly.
• See any State or Local Guidelines. There are some local and state guidelines that businesses have to follow to stay up to code. Take a minute to read up on these laws or talk to your local fire marshal to learn about the guidelines.

Keeping your business, employees, and guests safe is important. Just by taking the time to make sure the basics of fire safety are taken care of, you can protect your investment.

 Source: DKI Service Fire Services

5 Things Never to Plug into a Power Strip

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

5 Things Never to Plug into a Power Strip

No matter where you live—house, apartment, dorm room, mobile home—one factor remains constant: There never seem to be enough power outlets. This may explain the popularity of multi-outlet power strips, which provide additional outlets and also let you control multiple components with a single on-off switch. There are some appliances, however, that should never be used with power strips because they could overload the circuit and cause overheating or even a fire…

1. Refrigerators and Freezers

Large appliances like refrigerators require a lot of power and frequently cycle on and off, which can easily overload a power strip. These devices should be plugged directly into a wall outlet dedicated solely to powering the appliance. If you try to plug additional appliances into the same outlet, you risk tripping the circuit.  

1. Microwaves

The microwave is a miracle of modern food preparation, thawing, cooking, and reheating food in a fraction of the time it takes a conventional oven. But all that marvelous activity requires more energy than a power strip can provide. Like a conventional electric oven, the microwave should have its own dedicated power outlet.

1. Coffee Makers

You may not think that your morning cup of joe requires that much energy to brew, but most coffee makers need quite bit of amperage to turn those roasted beans into a hot beverage. Plug your coffee maker directly into the outlet or you run the risk of waking up to a half-brewed pot of coffee.

1. Toasters

If you’ve ever peered into a toaster to remove a particularly stubborn piece of broken crust, you know that the inside is basically a bunch of wires that heat up to red-hot temperatures to toast the bread. The current draw that those wires require can easily cause a power strip to overheat. This same issue affects toaster ovens, electric skillets, and waffle irons as well.

1. Slow Cookers and Hot Plates

You might think you're one clever cook when you plug your slow cooker into a power strip to free up outlet space for other countertop appliances, but you'd be wrong. These cooking appliances require more juice over a longer period of time than a power strip can handle. And because the appeal of a slow cooker is that it can operate without supervision, you definitely want to make sure it is safely plugged into a wall outlet to minimize any hazardous outcomes.

Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/home-and-garden/10-things-never-to-plug-into-a-power-strip/ss-AAwzKNH

Mold Needs the Right Environment to Grow

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Needs the Right Environment to Grow

Most of us know that water damage left untreated can lead to mold. That's why when SERVPRO comes in to restore after a water damage event, we use special agents to prevent any future mold growth on the affected services. But, mold can grow in other ways as well if conditions are right. 

Mold can grow on areas with the following:

·        Water, moisture or high humidity

·        Food (any organic substance)

·        The right temperature (generally 68-86 degrees F, but some can grow in 30 degrees or colder)

·        Lack of ventilation

·        Some molds can produce toxins if the environmental conditions are right.

If you suspect you have mold, please contact SERVPRO® of Bloomington and Richfield at (952) 854-2000.

Home Fires Caused by Dryers and Washing Machines

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Home Fires Caused by Dryers and Washing Machines

Clothes dryer fires happen more often than one might think, accounting for 16,800 home structure fires in 2010 and doing more than $236 million in property damage according to the National Fire Protection Association. The most frequent causes of fires in dryers are lint/dust (29%) and clothing (28%). In washers, they are wire or cable insulation (26%), the appliance housing (21%) or the drive belt (15%).

Dryers were involved in 92% of the Washer/Dryer fires; the risk of fire was basically the same for both gas and electric-powered dryers.

Safety tips:

• Clean the lint screen frequently and don’t run the dryer without it.
• For gas and propane dryers, make sure there aren’t any leaks in the lines.
• Vent the dryer to the outside of the house and ensure nothing blocks the vent pipe.
• Clean the vent pipe and the area where the screen is housed.
• Keep the area around the dryer free of combustible materials.

Source: National Fire Protection Association and http://www.propertycasualty360.com

Managing the Mold Remediation Process

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Managing the Mold Remediation Process

When there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, your local SERVPRO® of Bloomington and Richfield Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process.

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of Bloomington and Richfield. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection and Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect

mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from

plain view.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the

contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores

from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of

surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to

eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing

of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate

heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings

SERVPRO® of Bloomington and Richfield  Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. We are also trained to remove odors and deodorization using

fogging equipment. SERVPRO of Bloomington and Richfield Professionals understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

How to Decrease Your Mold Exposure

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

How to Decrease Your Mold Exposure

How can people decrease mold exposure?

Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Sensitive individuals should avoid areas that are likely to have mold, such as compost piles, cut grass, and wooded areas. Inside homes, mold growth can be slowed by controlling humidity levels and ventilating showers and cooking areas.

Specific Recommendations:

• Keep humidity levels as low as you can—no higher than 50%–all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
• Use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.
• Be sure the home has adequate ventilation, including exhaust fans.
• Add mold inhibitors to paints before application.
• Clean bathrooms with mold killing products.
• Do not carpet bathrooms and basements.
• Remove or replace previously soaked carpets and upholstery.

What areas have high mold exposures?

• Antique shops
• Greenhouses
• Saunas
• Farms
• Mills
• Construction areas
• Flower shops
• Summer cottages
• Lake Houses

Source: cdc.gov

What is the SERVPRO® Ready Plan Tool

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

What is the SERVPRO® Ready Plan Tool

The SERVPRO^® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your home or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your home or business.

SERVPRO^® Franchise Professionals have restoration experts available 24 hours a day to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold mitigation and removal. Our Large Loss Division has the expertise to manage the cost and operations of large commercial disaster recovery projects.

Lightning During Storms and House Fires Resulting

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Lightning During Storms and House Fires Resulting

Unlike other types of house fires, which occur more frequently in the winter months, fires in the home caused by lightning are more likely to happen in June, July and August in the late afternoon or early evening. From 2007-2011, NFPA says there were an average of 22,600 fires per year caused by lightning strikes.  Lightning is responsible for a number of wildfires as well.

Lightning during storms poses the greatest risk outdoors and frequently strikes the highest point on a structure.

Safety tips During Lightning Storms: 

• When possible, stay away from doors and windows during an electrical storm.
• Do not use corded phones, computers, TVs or other electrical equipment during storms.
• Unplug major electronics – TVs, stereo equipment, computers and microwaves to minimize damage if there is a lightning strike close by.
• Avoid plumbing such as sinks, baths and faucets during a thunderstorm as metal plumbing is an excellent conductor of electricity.

Source: http://www.propertycasualty360.com and National Fire Protection Association

What are molds?

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

What are molds?

One of the most common questions we receive at SERVPRO® is: what exactly is mold.  What kind of mold do I have?  How do I keep it from spreading?

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more. Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. In addition, mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.

What are some of the common indoor molds?

• Cladosporium
• Penicillium
• Alternaria
• Aspergillus

SERVPRO® can help to remediate the mold in your home.  In addition, SERVPRO® will bring in air scrubbers that will help to remove the mold spores in the air in order to prevent any additional mold from forming.  In most cases, the contaminated area will be sealed off in order to contain the mold spores in the air while the air is being "scrubbed" by the air scrubbers.

In many cases, the mold can simply be remediated.  Please give us a call to schedule an appointment.

How Long Does Each Step of the Water Damage Restoration Process Take?

1/20/2018 (Permalink)

Finding your home in Bloomington, MN affected by water damage is extremely disheartening. There is no time to waste, and homeowners should contact a professional storm restoration service in their area immediately after finding the damage. These experts know precisely how to extract water and tear out damaged surfaces. Naturally, all homeowners wonder when their house will be back to its normal self, and the answer usually depends on the extent of the damage.

1. Water Mitigation and Extraction

First, the company needs to curtail the effects of the flood water and moisture. This involves bringing in a heavy-duty extracting machine to remove the standing water. Next, the team has to prevent mold from growing. It only takes one day for mold to start growing. Finally, the professionals need to dry out the room using dehumidifiers and powerful drying systems. It generally takes about three days to do all this. The team needs to ensure the room is free of water damage before continuing on to the tear out stage.

2. Reconstruction

The amount of time it takes to reconstruct a room ultimately depends on how much the water affected. Professionals typically need to remove the drywall because it often absorbs moisture. Any insulation behind the wall usually also needs to be removed in case the water has compromised that. If the flooding occurred in a room with carpeting, then all of it must be taken out and replaced with something else. Depending on exactly how much damage occurred, it can take anywhere between a few days and a couple weeks to complete the work.

Hopefully your house in Bloomington, MN will be back in spectacular condition in less than a week. Avoid delaying the process any more than necessary by contacting a storm restoration service near you so that an experienced team can tear out and repair the damaged room.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on storm damage.

How to Prevent Water Damage While You Are on Vacation

1/20/2018 (Permalink)

Going on a vacation should be a fun, joyous time. The last thing you want to come back to is a broken pipe in desperate need of water pipe repair. A flooded residence in Bloomington, MN is extremely dangerous when no one is home because it means it could take days until someone removes the water and dries out the room. That is a lot of time for water to stand, and bacteria can grow out of control. Here are some steps to lower the likelihood of experiencing water damage while you are away.

1. Shut Off the Water Main

The most surefire way to prevent your home from flooding is to shut off the main water supply. After you turn it off, you need to drain the pipe. Run all the faucets until water stops flowing. You also want to flush every toilet until the bowls are empty. This will also decrease your chances of needing water pipe repair to fix frozen pipes.

2. Clean Downspouts and Gutters

If there is a chance it will rain while you are away, then you want to clean the gutters and downspouts. Gutters filled with debris can prevent water from adequately flowing through. Gutters that take on too much pressure can break and flood the foundation of your home.

3. Run the HVAC System

Air circulation can prevent condensation from building up, and it will also help prevent pipes from freezing. Keep hot air flowing through periodically to prevent mold growth in Bloomington, MN.

4. Ask a Neighbor to Check in on Your House

Another good idea is to ask a neighbor or family friend to stop by your house throughout your vacation. In the event your home does flood, someone will be able to contact a local water pipe repair service to address the problem before it gets worse. Show your housesitter where the water main and thermostat are located. Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on water damage.

Avoiding the Stress of Holiday Water Damage

1/20/2018 (Permalink)

The holiday season is stressful enough, between family drama, choosing the perfect gift, and arranging travel throughout the season. So why would you let a water pipe repair or other water damage add to your stress? Preventing water damage over the holidays is a matter of taking care of a few simple things.

How To Stop Damage Before It Starts

Methods for preventing water damage can range from simple habits to professional system upgrades. These are few things you can do to keep your home free of water hazards:

? Installing a backwater control valve, or inspecting and repairing your existing one, to prevent sewer backups from causing a flooded toilet incident
? Ensuring that paper products such as paper towels and newspaper are properly disposed of and that grease is not poured down drains.
? Running faucets at least once a day to keep pipes from freezing and bursting
? Having pipes and water lines inspected regularly to check for failures
? Securing any water pipe repair you might need in advance of the holidays to avoid broken pipe incidents later in the season.
? Replacing older pipes with newer plastic pipes, which are more resistant to damage.

When It Happens Anyway

No matter how diligent you are, sometimes water damage just happens. If you do encounter a broken pipe, flooded toilet, or other water damage during the holidays, it’s important to take care of it right away, even if you’re busy. The longer you leave the problem to sit, the more likely it is to cause secondary damage, which can become even more costly and time consuming to fix. Contact a repair or restoration company in Bloomington, MN right away and take plenty of pictures for your insurance claim. After the cleanup is complete, be sure to discuss the specifics of the incident with your restoration company so that you know how to prevent future incidents.

Don’t let a broken pipe add even more stress to your holiday season. Take a few simple preventative measures in advance to avoid water pipe repair and other water damage issues, so you can focus on enjoying your holidays.
 Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on commercial water damage.

3 Ways to Minimize Residential Flood Damage Before a Storm

1/18/2018 (Permalink)

The devastation caused by flood water in Bloomington, MN can be overwhelming.

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to limit the effects of water damage by taking preventative measures. You may have heard about a business in your area going through certain processes to limit the likelihood of a flooded building, but you can also do them as a homeowner.

Know the Flood Level Near Your Area

Governmental officials carry out evaluations to assess how high flood water will rise in a given area. It’s crucial to know the level water could reach during a storm. You can find out the flood level for your area by:

• Going to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website
• Checking with your insurance company
• Contacting local building authorities

Once you’re aware of that information, it becomes much easier to take proactive measures. Get started by hiring licensed and insured contractors to make modifications to your home, so water-sensitive parts of your abode, such as the electrical system, are not as prone to problems from excessive moisture.

Apply Protective Coatings to the Home’s Walls

It’s possible to buy sealant products to apply to the walls of your residence to help keep moisture out. Do research to find the best-reviewed and highly rated options and invest in some of them before you hear about the next flood threat.

Have a Cleanup Plan

Think ahead by deciding what you’ll do if preventative measures don’t keep the water out completely and it becomes necessary to clean up after a flood and salvage what’s left of your possessions. Because there are so many safety risks associated with flood recovery, it’s smart to contact professional disaster recovery specialists to let them handle the job.

These steps could help you protect your home and reduce the chances you’ll deal with a flooded building. Water damage can be severe, and flood water is particularly dangerous. Flood prevention could also reduce disruption to your life and residence.

Need more information about storm damage? Click here to visit our website.

Tips for Cleaning Up Water Damage From Broken Pipes

1/18/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage is a fact of life for homeowners. No matter how hard you work to maintain your property, eventually broken pipes, backed-up drains, or some other form of water damage will require cleanup.

When the time comes and you have to deal with a minor emergency that has left your home in Bloomington Ferry, MN, a little waterlogged, you need to know how to respond decisively to prevent continuing damage. Follow these tips to make sure you get the water cleanup process handled quickly.

• Turn off the water to prevent further flooding
• Remove dry and undamaged possessions from the affected area
• Contact a restoration cleaning service with water-damage certifications
• File a claim with your insurance company for covered damages
• Keep kids and pets away from the area

If it is possible to safely turn off electricity to the flooded rooms, it can be a good idea, especially if you have appliances plugged in and under water. Make sure you don’t step into standing water where powered appliances are submerged to minimize the risk of shock.

Working With Water-Damage Specialists

Sometimes, homeowners are tempted to attempt cleanup themselves. While there are a number of home improvement and repair projects that can be realized efficiently and inexpensively with a do-it-yourself approach, it’s important to understand that water cleanup from broken pipes and other plumbing emergencies really needs a professional approach.

When water damages a home, specialized tools are needed to properly effect cleanup. These tools allow for the drying and cleaning of home furnishings and building features alike, and they work more thoroughly and quickly than options available to homeowners. Quick action is essential to minimize the damage from water during emergencies. Specialists also carry certifications for mold abatement and other water-related cleanup protocols.

Wrapping Up

Water damage from broken pipes and other home emergencies can cause serious problems for homes and homeowners in City, State. Make sure you work with specialists in water cleanup to preserve and clean your property when you have residential water emergencies.

Visit our website for more information about water damages.

3 Steps for Dealing With an Overflowing Toilet

1/18/2018 (Permalink)

Toilets: everyone uses them, and if you are a building manager or just work in an office, you will probably encounter an overflowing toilet at some point. Overflowing toilets in Normandale Lake District, MN, can be caused by a pipe blockage or sewer damage. A flooded toilet is no fun to deal with, but these three steps can help you take care of the mess.

1. Stop the Flow of Water

If you have a flooded toilet, the first step is to stop the flow of water. There are two easy ways to stop water from continuing to flow into your toilet bowl:

• Use the shutoff valve near the base of the toilet, turning until the water shuts off.
• Open the toilet’s tank and rig the float into a position that stops water from filling the tank.

It is important to stop toilet water overflowing, especially if the water is not clean. Water with any waste or contamination can be hazardous to your health.

2. Clean Up the Overflow

Using protective gear such as rubber gloves, clean up the water that has overflowed. Remember that the water may be hazardous, so take precautions to prevent direct contact with the water. Towels used for cleanup should be thoroughly sanitized with bleach, and the entire area should be disinfected. If the overflow is severe, a water restoration company can ensure thorough cleanup.

3. Stop the Problem

If the toilet overflow is due to a blockage in your pipe, you may be able to clear it with a toilet or sink plunger. If that does not work, or if the toilet overflowed without apparent cause, you may want to contact the sewage company to ensure the overflow is not caused by sewer damage. You can also call a professional plumber to take care of stubborn blockages in your pipes.

If the flooded toilet has caused water to reach the walls, was caused by sewer damage, or included water with waste or contamination, a professional water restoration team can ensure that everyone in the building remains safe and healthy from any hazards caused by the overflow.

Your Most Pressing Mold FAQS, Answered

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Your Most Pressing Mold FAQS, Answered

Mold can be harmful to a person’s home, which is why many people want to understand more about it, including why and how it grows, the remediation process and how to prevent it. A Bloomington, MN mold remediation company answers homeowners’ most pressing questions about mold growth in their homes.

What Causes Mold?

Mold thrives in environments that are warm and damp and that have high humidity. Usually, mold is found in rooms with poor ventilation, such as in laundry rooms, bathrooms and kitchens. Additionally, fungi need certain nutrients to grow, nutrients that can be found in wood, cardboard or even dead skin cells.

How Long Does It Take for Mold to Grow After a Flood or Leak?

It doesn’t take long for mold to grow once water damage is present. Whether your home was subject to a flood or a pipe simply burst, you have between 24 and 72 hours to get a mold remediation team in to help clean up.

What Can Mold Do to Your Home?

Mold growth, if not taken care of immediately, can be extremely detrimental to your home. In the best-case scenario, mold will merely damage your home’s ventilation system, its carpeting and drywall, and your possessions. In the worst-case scenario, the growth will attack the structural integrity of your home and render it uninhabitable.

Is it Possible to Prevent Mold?

Absolutely! By improving airflow in your home, directing water away from your home, keeping gutters in good condition, using a dehumidifier and drying wet areas immediately, you can minimize the risk for mold buildup and any damage it may cause.

Should You Attempt to Clean Up Mold Yourself?

The only instance when it is okay to attempt to clean up mold yourself is when you find a small patch on a hard surface, such as tile, granite or in the bathtub. If it is anything beyond that, and especially if the growth is caused by a flood, call in your Bloomington, MN mold remediation team.

Discovering mold growth can be frustrating. However, with an idea of how mold thrives, you can take proper steps to quickly and immediately remediate the situation and prevent future problems. Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on mold.

Hidden Water Can Damage Homes Well After the Fire’s Out

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Hidden Water Can Damage Homes Well After the Fire’s Out

When a home or building in Bloomington, MN is involved in a fire, the damage can be extensive. Fire damage is about more than just the fire itself; it also includes damage from heat, smoke and water. Water damage is typical, due to the amount firefighters must use to douse flames and ensure hot spots are cooled. Water can also cause structural damage, some of which is due to the high-pressure fire hose.

Hidden Moisture Causes Further Damage

Water used to put out the fire finds its way into crevices in the foundation, walls and ceiling, where it is trapped in structural pockets. If not removed promptly, it can cause ongoing damage to building materials, such as splitting and warping, and mold can begin to grow in 48 to 72 hours. Delays in removing this moisture can make repairs more costly.

Take Immediate Action

If your home or building is involved in a fire, act quickly to limit fire damage. The first step is to ventilate all affected areas. If weather conditions are mild, you can open windows and use fans to keep air circulating throughout damaged areas. To reach hidden water pockets, remove building materials to get to layers behind or underneath. Remove and discard any drywall with water damage, as well as wet insulation. Wood trim and hardwood are reclaimable after drying both sides.

Make Sure Everything’s Dry

Non-porous and semi-porous materials, including studs and joists, can be cleaned, but do not begin repairs until items are dry, or you risk dry rot and structural damage. Restoration companies use a special meter to find hidden moisture and can help you decide when conditions are dry enough to begin repairs.

Restoring Your Home

Recovering from a fire is not easy, especially when you add in the emotional toll. A professional fire restoration company can help you tackle the aftermath of fire damage and the inevitable water damage, and make your Bloomington, MN home livable again. Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on water damage.

Ways To Clean Up Following a Home Fire

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Ways To Clean Up Following a Home Fire

After a fire in your Bloomington, MN home has been extinguished, the cleanup and restoration processes begin. Buildings and their contents may experience smoke damage, in addition to the damage from the water and chemicals used to extinguish the fire. Comprehensive cleanup is often a multi-step process.

Damage Assessment

To formulate a comprehensive remediation plan, determine the full extent of the damage. In addition to assessing burned areas, adjoining rooms or floors should be tested for lingering harm from smoke or soot that spread throughout the structure during the fire.

Short-Term Repairs

Depending on the scope of the fire, roofs, walls, windows and doors may need immediate repairs to secure the building and prevent further damage from the elements. Boarding up openings or placing tarps over weakened areas can preserve them so that long-term remediation can begin.

Water Removal

Water can create further damage if left standing. Mold and mildew can grow whenever water and oxygen is present. Immediate drying can limit water damage that can compound the expense and time for repairs.

Smoke and Soot Removal

Special equipment may be needed to repair smoke damage and remove soot. Types of soot and smoke cleaning may include:

Dry cleaning for light residues
Wet cleaning for heavy residues
Spraying and wiping
Foam cleaning for fabrics or upholstery
Abrasive cleaning
Immersion cleaning

Because acid from smoke and soot damage can seriously affect electronics, such as televisions and computers, avoid turning on electronic equipment until it has been examined.

Photographs and documents may also require special handling. Restoration alternatives can include air drying, dehumidifying, or different types freeze or vacuum drying.

Restoration

The goal is to restore your Bloomington, MN home and its contents to its pre-fire condition. Full smoke damage restoration may involve both major or minor structural repairs, as well as specialized efforts to restore valued heirlooms, artwork, furniture, and other household belongings. Taking a well-planned approach when cleaning up after a fire can minimize loss and speed the road to full recovery. Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on fire damage.

What to expect after flood damage.

11/12/2017 (Permalink)

Piles of debris after flooding.

Large flood damages hundreds of homes.

Floods tend to create damage on multiple homes and businesses. It creates a chaos in the disaster and restoration industry. Here are 4 situations you may encounter after full scale flooding has occurred in the Bloomington, MN areas.

1. Waiting for insurance adjuster - the insurance adjusters are swamped and it could take weeks before one comes by to handle your claim.
2. Municipal services on hold - Trash collectors, power companies, and plumbers are going to be very busy. Expect long wait times.
3. Multiple visits from restoration company - Demolition will start first. If you have electricity they can place air movers. When building materials are stocked again the restoration will take place.
4. Long turnaround for insurance payout - Insurance companies have a lot of claims to process and will take a long time to payout. You may have to use credit and savings until the insurance company can payout.

Can mold grow in your home during the winter?

11/12/2017 (Permalink)

Yes, mold can grow during the winter in your Richfield home.

Mold is not usually a winter type organism. In fact, mold really likes the same temperature and moisture as most people, according to the EPA. Therefore, if your home has moisture and heat then it doesn't matter if it's cold or hot outside, mold will grow.

The main culprit for mold in the winter is due to ice damming. When an ice dam is present on the roof it allows melting ice and snow to seep under the shingles and into the home. The leak is too slow to catch the eye of the homeowner until it is too late.

In most cases the owners of the home don't know they have a leak until the drywall starts to crack or the mold starts to grow inside. But the damage is done and if there is mold on the outside, there will be mold on the inside.

Does my insurance cover mold?

11/12/2017 (Permalink)

Well, it depends on the insurance company.

Here in Bloomington, MN and in most states homeowners have insurance to cover damages caused by water and fire. However, when it comes to mold there is a little bit of a grey area.

Mold is considered a "secondary damage" to the insurance company, or a problem caused by the first damage, i.e., a broken pipe. Mold takes about 24-48 hours to grow after the water loss has occurred. The key is to have the broken pipe or cause of the water loss mitigated before the mold starts to grow.

Some insurance companies do not cover mold damage at all. If you need mold cleanup it will come out of your pocket. Some insurance companies have minimal mold coverage and is usually capped at $5,000.

But if you don't want to worry about mold coverage just make a call to your local water restoration company. Their quick mitigation response will keep the mold from being a problem in the first place.

Personal Referrals for Restoration

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Personal Referrals for Restoration

Use referrals from friends, neighbors, workmates, contractors, and family members who have experienced an electrical fire before. You can get the best results if you use a fire restoration company that has experienced technicians who have been tested and tried. The best referrals can be from people who have been struck by an electrical fire, soot damage, smoke damage, or fire damage situation in the recent past.

Degree of fire damage, smoke damage, and soot damage

It's important to know the extent of the fire damage or utility room fire before contacting a commercial fire damage restoration company with a fire truck, fire sprinkler system, and a fire hose. This is important because you may need to hire another expert to repair electronics or other appliances that may have been affected by the electrical fire or soot damage before the damage escalates. Soot damage and smoke damage can quickly start discoloring your walls or stain certain expensive electronic appliances in your office.

Equipment and technology

Remember to ask the firefighters about the technology they apply in their fire cleanup processes and whether they have all the necessary equipment such as fire hose, fire truck, and fire sprinkler system for executing the fire suppression project. The company should have sufficient tools and equipment to avoid shortage when a big calamity strikes in several places at once. Endeavor to hire professional firefighters with a good reputation in your neighborhood.

Availability and accessibility

The fire restoration company should be available 24/7 and accessible. Disaster can strike anytime, and thus you need to choose a reliable fire restoration company that can come to your rescue whenever you experience an electrical fire or a utility room fire in your residential or commercial building. Also, make sure that the fire restoration company that you choose offers a wide range of utility room fire remediation and fire suppression solutions. This is critical because you can hire a fire restoration service provider and realize later that they can't handle certain utility room fire restorations due to lack of a fire truck, fire sprinkler system, or fire hose.

Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on commercial fire damage.

Repair Methods of Storm Restoration

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Repair Methods of Storm Restoration

Specialists deploy many methods of curbing damage in their quest for home restoration. Storm remediation and storm restoration require an assessment to evaluate the extent of storm damage then determining the most suitable process of water restoration, such as using flood pump. A flood pump works to pump away excess flood water and ground water in the process of water restoration and thus home restoration.

Frequently flood water combined with wind both of them have a toll, uncovering a person's possessions to the outside weather and undesired trespassers. Professional specialists can help with the home restoration!

Since emergency situations do not have a schedule, almost all professional recovery teams are available around the clock, in readiness for when disaster strikes. They try to make the process of recovery as quick and well done as possible.

In conclusion, a natural disaster such as flooding from ground water, even ice dams in frozen pipes causes such damages as hurricane damages and inherently a lot of frustrations. It's, therefore, the duty of a homeowner to seek professional help for assistance with home restoration.

Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on storm damage.

Choosing a Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Company

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

Choosing a Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Company

Fire damage, soot damage, and smoke damage can be very devastating and costly to repair for residential and commercial building owners. It's very crucial to proceed with caution after commercial fire damage. You should never try to do any cleaning or repairs without contacting a professional firefighter or a commercial fire damage restoration company. If you try any DIY project, you may any end injuring yourself and the neighbors or making the utility room fire even worse.

In the event of a utility room fire, smoke damage, or commercial fire damage, you should alert your insurance company and take as many photos as you can for evidence. The next step is to contact an experienced commercial fire damage restoration company who can help suppress the fire and initiate fire cleanup and repair process. Here are tips on how to choose the best firefighter and commercial fire restoration company that has experience in fire suppression:

License

You ought to ensure that you choose a fire remediation company that has firefighters who are licensed to handle fire damage by using equipment such as a fire sprinkler system, fire hose, fire truck, and understands all aspects of fire damage. Check whether the company has any complaints leveled against them on the Better Business Bureau.


Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on commercial fire damage.

How Should You Respond to Residential Fire Damage?

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

How Should You Respond to Residential Fire Damage?

Have you ever visited someone's home and noticed visible signs of fire cleanup weeks, months or even years after a fire? Even when a homeowner removes burned wood or other materials from a room where a conflagration occurred, subtle traces of soot damage and smoke damage may remain. These signs may cause the home to appear unattractive long after the fire board up of an impacted room ends!

The Aftermath of a Fire in Home Settings

Occupants of the home may adjust to living with obvious signs of fire damage in the absence of a formal fire restoration process. Yet unless they follow the example of many businesses and request assistance from a trained fire restoration company, a lingering smoke smell may still pervade the premises long afterwards. Just as commercial fire damage warrants a prompt response after a fire in business settings, homeowners should seriously consider seeking professional assistance from a qualified restoration company following a fire in home environments.

Effective, timely fire damage restoration can remove the smoke smell and restore treasured personal items to an attractive condition. This process may prove very cost-effective over the course of time. After a fire in home settings, who enjoys residing in quarters which reek with a persistent smoke smell? No one prefers smoke damage in a home. Contacting a skilled fire damage restoration firm can help your household permanently remove soot damage, smoke damage and other unpleasant fire damage signs. Consider treating your residence with the same respect you would show to your workplace following a fire in business areas. The board up and fire cleanup process proceed more quickly and smoothly with a trained fire damage expert in charge. Today many homeowners request assistance from a restoration company in this situation.

Another Long Term Advantage of Seeking Restoration Company Assistance

In addition to enhancing the comfort of household members and visitors, consider that a qualified restoration company may help you restore your home to a more marketable condition following a fire in home settings. Just as these firms help alleviate commercial fire damage, they often help homeowners restore a residence's appeal to prospective buyers. You'll still need to disclose the occurrence of fire in business and home environments when you place property on the market, of course.

However, real estate buyers won't notice a noxious lingering smoke smell on the premises after thorough fire damage restoration. The restoration effort won't end with the fire cleanup and fire board up efforts when you pursue this course of action! By carefully removing soot damage and smoke damage from upholstery, drapes and carpeting, fire damage restoration companies can help ensure a more comprehensive fire cleanup effort. Business today usually seek assistance with restoration following commercial fire damage. Savvy home sellers appreciate the need for this service, too.

Make An Intelligent Choice to Address Fire Damage Comprehensively

Even a small kitchen fire can pose a headache for homeowners. It makes sense to respond to this type of emergency just as successful enterprises do after fire in business venues. These entities generally pursue the most effective commercial fire damage solution by seeking expert restoration assistance. A growing number of restoration firms offer fire cleanup assistance to homeowners today, too.

In former eras, some homeowners would simply board up damaged rooms in a home until they could replace burned construction materials. Today, more people appreciate the importance of complete restoration efforts, cleaning which goes far beyond simple soot damage removal. If you ever suffer fire damage in your residence- even minor fire damage, consider seeking capable restoration assistance from qualified experts. Taking this step could save you money over the long term!
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on fire damage.

Professional Storm Restoration Of A Home Damaged By Floods

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

Professional Storm Restoration Of A Home Damaged By Floods

Mother nature gets furious and unleashes her many ways of rampage to the planet on several occasions. Flooding is one way in which natural disaster strikes. River flooding can occur as soon as the water banks burst and thus water restoration comes to be of need. Numerous homes close to water bodies are prone to home damage due to river flooding and also account their significant losses to storm damage. Storm damage, as well as hurricane damage, can come about when the flood water couples with robust wind damage which also causes roof damage.

Elements of Disaster

Ground water can cause flooding as flood water flows freely by gravity. Ground water sweeps away anything, and create storm damage. When coupled with wind damage, ground water can rip off buildings causing severe storm damages.

Roof repair and storm restoration experts say that hail damage dramatically contributes to roof leaks. Hail damage bombards roofs bringing about roof leaks.

Wind damage is also bringing about the need for roof repair whenever there are roof leaks. It causes roof damage and occasionally roof leak. In extreme case of tornadoes, hurricane damages are devastating and lead to costly home restoration. A hurricane damage can be spontaneous and incorporate many of others such as hail damage. A skilled professional will help in roof repair of roof damage. Storm restoration also involves prevention against subsequent river flooding through storm remediation.

In addition to storm remediation, water restoration is one other thing that the professionals help victims to deal with by installing flood pumps. After a river flooding that causes the need for flood pump, victims immediately need to follow safety precautions and contact the nearest qualified storm restoration professionals. The storm remediation professionals double as excellent advisors. They give recommendations on the plans to settle and recover quickly from the flooding by installing flood pumps by the process of storm remediation.

Ice elements

Ice damage occurs whenever ice settles on the roofs in excess. Ice damage results when an ice dam accumulates behind a structure or component, a process called ice damming. Due to its excess weight, after ice damming the elements in the ice dam are too heavy for a structure, and thus it breaks, causing ice damage. Frozen pipes in the cold season's burst after the ice dam inside them expands before thawing. Frozen pipes that cannot withstand the pressure of the ice dam and ice damming inside the frozen pipes break, thus ice damage needs restoration to its better state.

Seek professional help

With incredible rapidity, hurricane damage and ice damming could inflict intense damage to any property. Hail damage, wind damage, lightning, tornadoes, and also ice damming can damage rooftops and thus residences, so the first concern in case of a natural catastrophe would be to put a stop to further destruction such as frozen pipes and flooding by storm remediation.

Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on storm damage.

Water Restoration: The Process of Restoring the Damage

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

Water Restoration: The Process of Restoring the Damage

Whether you have water in home or water in business, the goal of dealing with water damage will almost be the same. That goal is to return the home or business to the same condition it had been in before the flood of water from the supply line break or leaky roof or dishwasher from flooding the home. Many times water cleanup companies will provide you with 24/7 emergency service because flood damage grows worse the longer you wait for restoration services.

Damage Assessment

One of the first services a water cleanup company will do is make a flood damage assessment of the water in home or water in business. First, they will check if the water damage stems from sanitary or unsanitary water. They will also look at the kind of contaminants in the source of water. The worst kind of flood damage stems from sewage backup and unsanitary water because the water damage can be hazardous to your health. A restoration company will often employ the use of an infrared probe to determine what kind of damage has been caused.

During the damage assessment process, the restoration company will also look at the best methods to restore the damage for the water in home or water in business.

Mitigation of the Water Damage

The next step in the process involves the mitigation of the water damage. During this stage, water cleanup will snap into progress and drying of the water will take place. The drying will happen with dehumidifiers, fans, air movers and air scrubbers, and the restoration company will most likely have special hardwood drying machines to handle hardwood flooring if you have any. Special restoration methods will also occur in the water cleanup stage where they will handle toxins and molds present in the building.

Restoration After Flood Damage

After flood in home or flood in business, the restoration company will set to restoring the wood, carpet, stone, tile and laminate flooring. The restoration of walls will also focus on drying them out. The mitigation company will also look at whether the mold is present inside the home, and they will use special techniques to replace the mold within the home. The pipe break could also do damage to the cabinets, and they may be in need of a complete restoration to the flooded home, depending on the extent of the damage and if it was a supply line break.

Understands the Health and Safety Standards

Your mitigation company understands water in business and water in home safety code standards around mold and asbestos. Your flooded home specialists will ensure that where you're at remains a safe place to be. For example, after a supply line break, they will look at what the cause of the break was so that they can fix it better. In some cases, it had to do with defective or low-grade materials that caused the supply line break and the flooded home. In some cases, you could file a lawsuit against the company for a pipe break.

Making Sure Your Home is Safe to Live In

A flooded home comes with all sorts of problems like damaged walls and floors and mold everywhere. A poor response to the problem can exacerbate the issues and cause more of a problem. As soon as you notice a pipe break or water flooding the home, you should immediately address it with a professional company who has been through the process before.

No matter what kind of issue you might be facing with a flooded home, a professional restoration company will be your best bet because they understand what it takes to handle a pipe break or leak in the roof, and they can keep the damage from compounding into a more expensive problem. A water cleanup company gives you the best chances at a full restoration of the home.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on water damage.

Professional Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Services

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

Professional Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Services

If you are experiencing utility room fire or electrical fire, getting fire suppression support is important. Any business owner is aware of the devastation that could result from utility room fire or electrical fire. The majority of them have decided to use modern technology tools such as fire sprinkler system in their business premises.

Importance of fire sprinkler system is that it can detect heat level change in a room, trigger an alarm, and open its valve to spray the water. Fire sprinkler system is a mitigation effort that could contain the small fire, but intensified utility room fire or electrical fire may require a quick external response.

Fire suppression is done by both the fire sprinkler system and the firefighters after detection of utility room fire or electrical fire. The arrival of firefighters with their fire truck is important. They come to back up the fire sprinkler system and are more equipped and skilled to handle all types of fire outbreaks. A fire truck is filled with water and fire redundant chemicals. It is injected through the fire hose at high pressure to make sure that the flame is destabilized.

Firefighters also try their best to reach out the burning areas and could break into doors and windows. The fire truck may also be brought closer to the building thus damaging the landscaping as the fire hose is pulled on the ground. Apart from the fire damage, you will experience floods, smoke damage, and soot damage.

Commercial fire damage is usually extensive because other than the burning, smoke damage and soot damage, pressure from the fire truck and fire hose swirls things in the house. Documents and computers become wet, and tables and chairs are overturned. The charred mess and flooding floor makes the place look like a cave.


After the firefighters have completed their duty, they pack up their fire hose and drive off the fire truck from the scene to wait for another fire distress call from someone else. For you, it is time to grapple with loss, the charred mess, flooded floor, strong odor from smoke damage and ashes and dust from soot damage make an ugly scene. You do not want to see this, it is not something you can feel comfortable to repair on your own, and neither do you have the knowledge and skills on how to start fire restoration.

For quick and detailed fire restoration, using professionals is important because they will ensure that your business is back on its feet within a few days. Commercial fire damage restoration services are within reach, and you could contact them immediately the firefighters are through with fire suppression mission. Professional fire restoration teams are usually organized and equipped. They execute their services is a planned way leaving nothing unturned.

The importance of working with professional fire restoration teams is that they could help you in the documentation of your loss for insurance claims. They also have a specialized approach to handle fire damage,soot damage, water damage, and smoke damage. At the end of their services, you will not believe that a few days your business was a charred mess. The professionalism of the fire damage restoration team is simply amazing and quick. They rectify every damage that the firefighters, with their fire hose and fire truck, caused while fighting the inferno.

Finding the right fire restoration services should not give you sleepless nights, they are within reach and can find them through simple web searches. Remember commercial fire damage restoration should commence immediately after the fire suppression mission is done. This will prevent adding on top of fire damage other complications that could cost you more money and cause more loss.

Soot damage and smoke damage would be cleaned and walls restored. They could also repair all the items that had minimal damage. Since the professionals know, what time means in fire restoration, their response is usually quick to plan and begin their work.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on fire damage.

How to Handle Storm Damage to Your Property

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

How to Handle Storm Damage to Your Property

In the United States, storm damage is among the most costly sources of property loss. Each year, tens of billions of dollars in property damage is caused by river flooding, wind damage, hurricane damage, ice damage and hail damage. While these sources of storm damage are often unavoidable, in most cases, home restoration and storm remediation can be carried out successfully. But this relies on the property owner quickly contacting a professional home restoration and storm remediation company.

Many people envision storm damage as being something closely associated with warmer climates or the Central Plains region of the United States. While it's true that hurricane damage and wind damage is often the main kind of storm damage seem in warmer climates, billions of dollars in storm damage are still caused by such things as ice damage, frozen pipes and ice dams in colder climates. The truth is that storm damage can occur almost anywhere.

Warm weather storms


While there are a few areas of the United States, such as the Northwestern Coast region, that are largely immune from the effects of severe weather, the vast majority of the United States is at least seasonally vulnerable to serious severe weather. Flooding, wind damage, roof damage, flood water and ground water saturation are just some of the things caused by these common weather phenomena.

Recent storms throughout the Southern United States have shown that many cities are highly vulnerable to groundwater reaching saturation levels, causing widespread flooding and even inducing river flooding and floodwaters from locations that would otherwise not have been likely to overflow.

But for as much damage as river flooding and groundwater flooding do, even more damage occurs from wind damage. Roof leaks can cause flood water to enter homes. And roof repairs alone run into the billions of dollars every year. Hurricane damage and hail damage often result in roof leaks and require extensive roof repairs.

Flooding, especially that caused by river flooding and groundwater flooding are often the most expensive kinds of home restoration and storm remediation efforts. However, those caused by wind are much more common. This makes roof leaks and roof damage more expensive in the aggregate. And roof damage or roof leaks are, therefore, a more serious concern to more Americans than hurricane damage or flood water.

Luckily, roof repairs are often some of the easiest performed kinds of storm remediation. While water restoration and removal of flood water can often be carried out quickly and relatively inexpensively, when they are the result of flooding, they are often a more expensive form of storm remediation.

Cold weather storm remediation.


While warm weather storms can be expensive causes of storm restoration efforts, winter storms can play an equally destructive role. Roof damage can also occur due to winter storms. Ground water freezing can mean that normal absorption is impossible. Frozen pipes, ice dams and ice damage are potent sources of winter weather damage. Ice damming can quickly cause massive roof leakage. Hail damage is another serious problem in winter storms, adding to the complexity of storm remediation.

Roof repair often becomes necessary after major ice damming events. Ice dams can often make storm restoration efforts more complicated, resulting in the required use of flood pumps. When ground water freezes, the likelihood that ice damming will result it overwhelming runoff from the roof with the ice dam becomes high, making the home restoration more difficult.

Frozen pipes are also a major concern. Frozen pipes that break will often necessitate the use of heavy-duty flood pumps. While flood pumps work very well in warm conditions, a flood pump may ingest frozen ground water or otherwise break down in colder climes, making the water restoration more difficult.

Hail damage, ice damage and ice damming can all be handled easily by a professional water restoration team but should not be undertaken on a do-it-yourself basis. Whatever the climate, water restoration and storm restoration are best left to storm restoration professionals.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on storm damage.

Water Damage, Removal and Restoration Advice

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage, Removal and Restoration Advice

Water damage is one of the worst-case scenarios for a home or business owner. There are many potential causes of water damage. It can occur from ground water after heavy rains or a cresting river. It can be caused by plumbing issues such as a pipe break, leaky pipes, over-flowing toilets and tubs or even a supply line break. A flooded home can be one of the worst possible things an owner has to deal with. Whatever the cause, it is best to contact a professional restoration company for restoration and water cleanup.

When dealing with water damage or flood damage, time is of the essence. It is vital to contact a restoration company immediately for damage mitigation. The longer the problem persists, the more damage will be done. A good restoration company will help you with each step of the process for water in home or water in business locations.

The restoration company you choose should start with a water damage assessment. Then the water extraction and water cleanup can begin. The water in your flooded home will be sucked up and pumped out of the location. Next, they will begin drying your affected areas and items. The drying process will be done to walls, carpets, furniture and more. The next step in your restoration will be the cleaning of your damaged items. This may include all of the previously mentioned items, as well as books, clothes and other personal items.

Following the water cleanup, drying and other restoration processes, the company will next work on mold and mildew mitigation. They will cleanup any affected areas to remove mold and mildew and then treat areas to prevent their return. Once these restoration processes are complete, the company should next look to fixing the source of water in home or water in business locations. Locating the source of the leak or water-proofing the home will prevent future flood damage.

A flooded home can lead to a lot of structural damage. Most restoration companies will be able to repair these as well, or refer you to a good construction company that can. Whether you experience a pipe break, supply line break or flood damage, you should be able to file a home-owners insurance claim. The water cleanup and drying processes may even be fully covered, depending how your type of insurance coverage. Water in business locations may be different from water in home locations when it comes to insurance claims. A good restoration company can generally help with filing claims.

For water in home locations or water in business locales, contacting a professional company right away will actually save you money and issues in the long run. Fixing a supply line break, pipe break and flood damage should always be done as soon as possible. This is why its important to research restoration companies and have someone in mind before a problem strikes. This can help with the mitigation of more damage and future issues.

When choosing a good restoration company, pay attention to companies that have been in the business for a long time. A company that has survived for a long time can only have done so if they do good work. This also means they will have more experience dealing with any situation, such as pipe breaks, supply line breaks or whatever else that causes your water damage. An experienced business will be better at the mitigation of future problems in your flooded home. Be sure to choose a company that is insured and that can respond to your needs immediately. It's also a good idea to do business with company's that can give you an estimate up front.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on water damage.

Fire Damage Restoration Services Explained

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration Services Explained


Fire in home and fire in business can have devastating damage on the property as well as emotional distress to the home or business owner. It leaves the occupants of a building feeling hopeless and depressed.It is doubtful that a homeowner can handle the necessary cleanup to restore the home to its initial condition. This is where a commercial fire damage company comes in.

A fire restoration crew will help you retain the preserve your belongings, and the value of your fire damage restoration is necessary to get your business or home back to its original form. The restoration companies have sufficient knowledge of fire damage and the seriousness of the situation. The fire cleanup experts use their knowledge and equipment to achieve recovery. They can handle all damages associated with fire including fire damage itself, smoke damage, soot damage, and treat smoke smell problems.

Damage assessment

Fire damage restoration experts will first analyze the damage left by the fire in business or fire in home. They will assess the smoke and soot left by the inferno. Soot and smoke prevail after the fire has been extinguished, and it helps the experts establish the nature of the fire. The assessment allows soot damage experts determine the graveness of the damage and facilitate the decision of what needs restoration and what has to be discarded. Carrying this assessment without any expert know-how is not advisable since not everything that looks okay can be salvaged. Fire cleanup experts can identify and restore some things in your premise that appear damaged. Soot damage experts can also determine the type of smoke damage. There are different kinds of smoke such as wet smoke, dry smoke, protein smoke and smoke from burning oil. All these kinds of smoke require a different type of treatment.

Water removal

The process of putting out the fire in home and fire in business often leaves behind a lot of water used for putting out the blaze. This water if left in the house can cause further damage and foster mold growth. The fire restoration company starts by removing the water from the establishment and dry the place to achieve the best restoration results.

Deodorization

Smoke damage is inevitable where fire damage occurs. In the case of fire in home or fire in business, porous materials can absorb smoke and retain smoke smell. Examples of such material include carpets, dry wall, and certain kinds of furniture made of porous material. The fire cleanup experts normally carry out a thorough deodorization of fabrics including apparels, draperies, carpets, and furniture to eliminate smoke smell. The smoke smell can linger on fabrics for an extended period if not properly deodorized. The fire restoration company utilizes potent compounds that target smoke molecules to neutralize the odor. Depending on the degree of deodorization, fire restoration professionals frequently use industrial grade ozone generators to eliminate soot, smoke, and odor effectively. The soot damage and smoke smell experts usually use EPA approved deodorizers and ozone to restore materials such that they are free from smoke smell.

Thermal forging

Apart from eliminating soot and smoke damage from fabric, fire damage may extend underneath the walls. If the case is severe, fire damage restoration experts normally turn to thermal forging. Thermal frogging utilized equipment that removes smoke odor trapped inside the walls.

Apart from fabrics and walls, the restoration company often assesses other parts to ensure appropriate fire cleanup and restoration. Commercial fire damage services may also replace vents, ducts, and attic insulation depending on the degree of fire damage. A deep inspection by a restoration company will provide property owners with a clear picture of what can be retrieved and what needs replacement.

Board up and other services

Fire in home and fire in business can consume a lot of your property. Fire damage restoration can provide board up services for your property. They will board up all the windows and doors that do not lock properly because of fire damage. They will also ensure they board up all openings in the roof and on the walls. The board up should prevent looting while you are away and protect your home from rain which can damage the remaining property. Other services include quick cleaning of clothing, pack-outs and creating a digital inventory of your belongings.

Demolition

Fire restoration companies can help devour structure affected by fire beyond repair. There is no need to worry about the scattered debris or the mess arising from the demolition process. The commercial fire damage experts will collect and dispose all the debris from the restoration process.

They help with insurance claims

A commercial fire damage company can assist prepare an estimate for you to submit to your insurance provider. Always file your insurance claim as soon as possible to help in the recovery. Delayed submissions often result in delayed payments which can cause frustration and inconvenience when handling the restoration process. Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on fire damage.

All about Mold Damage Remediation and Restoration

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

All about Mold Damage Remediation and Restoration

For most people around the world, being able to live their lives in a clean and safe environment is key whether one is living in their own home or renting one. It is therefore important that one makes a point to regularly check for any mold growth around their house and also in their places of work. Commercial mold damage can also occur in factories or buildings either as a result of torrential rains and flooding or after large amounts of water have been used to put out a fire.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows on surfaces or areas that are dark and damp. Mold in home can easily go unnoticed if one is not careful, causing serious health implications for the people living there. Mold growth can present as mildew, a fungus that is whitish and grows on very wet surfaces. It can also appear as black mold, dry rot in some areas around the house, or mold growth behind wall in the dark and commonly ignored sections of the house like in an attic. Other places that are not too conspicuous in a room, for example, under wall papers and ceiling tiles also provide a good environment for mildew,fungus and mold growth. In most commercial settings, one can find mold growth behind wall in places where large machinery is put. Dry rot is also common in factories.

Mold damage can spread very quickly, and active mitigation steps and remediation of affected goods is highly advised. If one notices a smelly odor in a room, they can quickly look for any signs of black rot in the room. One can also check for mold growth behind wall and on any furniture. Black mold can also be found on books. One can then consult a restoration company to assist with remediation and mitigation of the affected places.

Mold removal should never be done without professional help. This is because the fungus can easily spread from one room to another. A restoration company can take air samples before and after mold removal to ensure all fungus, mildew and smelly odor are removed and proper mitigation was done.

It is important for one to consult a restoration company whenever commercial mold damage is noticed, and quick and complete mold removal is required. A mold damage remediation company can inspect the extent of damage and proceed to mold removal and mitigation while making sure the black mold or dry rot does not spread to the other nearby rooms. A restoration company is also able to advise on deodorization and remediation steps to take to prevent mold in home and commercial mold damage in the future. One should also ensure proper aeration in places where mold growth behind wall is found as well as regular checks and deodorization.

After mold removal has been done, in most cases the smelly odor that comes with mold in home will go away. Deodorization can then be done to ensure the no smelly odor from the black mold or the dry rot is left in the room. This can also be done where commercial mold damage has been experienced. Deodorization can be done on furniture and any equipment where remediation has been done to ensure all fungus, mildew and mold in home get eliminated.

If the restoration company does a thorough job, which should be the case, the mold damage problem would be dealt with once and for all. It is, however, imperative that regular checks and follow up be conducted to avoid any further mold in home or commercial mold damage instances. The restoration company professionals should advise on the necessary mitigation steps that should be followed to prevent possible mold damage and eliminate mold growth if any signs have been noticed.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on mold.

Tips for Choosing An Effective Water Damage Restoration Company

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Tips for Choosing An Effective Water Damage Restoration Company

Whenever floods occur or certain pipes in your building burst accidentally due to human error or natural causes, you're likely to face overwhelming water damage or flood damage disaster that may accrue substantial losses if not handled properly. Most homeowners and managers of commercial buildings make the mistake of trying a DIY water damage or water cleanup mitigation process. The downside of opting for cheaper options is the end result, especially if the cleanup process is not handled comprehensively.

Furthermore, hiring a handyman without the necessary skill-set or equipment to handle hazardous wastewater or flood damage can have residual negative effects to the handler, the building, and its occupants after the poor cleanup exercise. Therefore, it's only prudent to hire professionals with the right tools, experience, and expertise in dealing with water in home or water in business restoration processes. Whatever the cause of the water in home or water in business and the degree of its severity, the best recourse is hiring the best water damage mitigation professionals.

Industry Certified

Make certain that the water in home or water in business restoration technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICR) and the Restoration Industry Association (RIA). Anyone claiming to be a professional without certification from these bodies could be a fake restoration professional and shouldn't be entertained near your property.

Use referrals

Consult with close friends and family members who have dealt with a recent water in home or water in business damage in the recent past. The insurance company that carries your homeowner's insurance policy can also offer you viable options of reputable companies that have handled flooded home damages in your locality. However, an insurance company may refer you to a water damage flooded home mitigation company that offers a cheap solution to clients who have flooded home problems instead of the best quality. Hence, to solve your flood damage comprehensively, you ought to shop around carefully for the best service provider.

Rapid response time

Flood damage in a home can escalate so quickly and cause extensive losses, especially when mold starts building up after a few hours. If you're a experiencing a supply line break or pipe break that keeps pouring water on your yard or a flooded home, you need to get immediate help before the problem gets out of hand. If the water damage company doesn't offer a prompt response, skip it regardless of whether it's in your locality. The key to solving the issue is hiring a professional water in home or water in business restoration company that provides rapid response whenever contacted by potential clients.

Quote and type of services provided

Avoid companies that promise to give you a quote or price estimate over the phone before assessing the situation. A flood damage, supply line break, or pipe break differs from one home to another, and thus the professional has to offer you an estimate after evaluating the entire damage. The flood damage and water cleanup restoration company should also explain the type of services that he will provide to restore your supply line break or pipe break during the water cleanup mitigation process. Even if the restoration company charges for its services on an hourly basis, it ought to give you a valid estimate of how long the water cleanup and drying can take.

Experience

Choose a water restoration and drying company that has years of experience in handling flooded home problems such as fixing pipe break and supply line break issues. An experienced company will help you in expediting the claims process for your insurance company after the water cleanup. The restoration company should also have the latest drying, pump outs and extraction equipment for aiding the water cleanup process adequately. Remember, if the drying is not done properly, you'll start experiencing other problems like mildew and mold growth.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on water damage.

Fire Damage Restoration Tips for Homeowners

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration Tips for Homeowners

Upon hiring a fire cleanup team to remedy the fire damage left behind after a fire in business or a fire in home, you gain peace of mind and assurance that the professionals will get your building back in safe, usable condition again. But, this isn't to say there isn't plenty of worry in the back of your mind. Like any property owner, fire damage restoration is something that you want done quickly and efficiently, and don't mind getting your hands dirty to see that happen. But, when there is fire damage in the home or business, leaving fire cleanup to the pros might just be the best remedy. Smoke damage, the smoke smell, and soot damage are all left behind in the aftermath of a fire, and all bring potential consequences your way.

Does this mean you cannot initiate any of the fire damage restoration yourself after a fire in business or your home? There are a few things that you can do after commercial fire damage or a fire in home, but for the most part, the job is best left to the professionals who are equipped with the safety tools and equipment needed to safely get the job done.

If you want to help clean up after a fire in home or commercial fire damage, keep the following tips in mind:

- Call a restoration company as soon as possible, as well as the insurance company, after a fire in business or home. A restoration company restores the facility to pre-fire condition while salvaging any items that haven't succumbed to the fire but may have smoke damage. The fire damage restoration professionals work diligently to revive your place during fire cleanup, ensuring that fire damage doesn't get the best of you.

- Wear protective clothing and a face mask when re-entering the building. Remember, re-enter only when the fire department or building officials okay you to do so. When you go inside the building, soot damage, smoke damage, and the smoke smell are all potential dangers that can affect you, but the protective gear adds a layer of much-needed protection.

- Board up of the windows, doors, and basement is a service provided by the restoration company upon request. Whether you've experienced a fire in home or commercial fire damage, board up services are beneficial since they protect you in multiple ways. A board up job protect people from entering the facility, which is important for both commercial fire damage and residential damage. The board up job also protects the fire from restarting and prevents the smoke smell from traveling outside the building.

- When you re-enter the building after fire damage ensure that you do so with caution. Although the flames are gone, soot damage, smoke damage, and the smoke smell are still present and a realistic threat to your safety. Structural damage is possible after fire damage, putting you at risk when inside the building. Watch every step that you make, and understand the potential dangers that lurk around you.

- Do not touch anything in the building after a fire in business or your home! You could very well transmit toxins when touching items affected with soot damage. Additionally, keeping things intact is beneficial when the insurance company arrives to assess the damage. Fire damage restoration starts only when the agent has evaluated the scene.

Although you never want to experience a fire, knowing what to do after fire damage can save time, frustration, and headache during the fire cleanup process. Use the above tips together with a great restoration company, and you'll soon get your life back to normal.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on fire damage.

How to Locate and Handle Mold Damage at Home or Work

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

How to Locate and Handle Mold Damage at Home or Work

Mold damage is a problem following flood damage, but mold growth doesn’t need flood waters to occur. Mold growth can occur anytime there is a presence of moisture anywhere in a home or office in which there is enough warmth and humidity to foster growth. This fungus needs nothing more than a little moisture to grow, and that’s something many people don’t realize. If there is a flood, it’s imperative to remove water and properly dry it right away to prevent mold growth and mold damage, but it’s not the only thing people should watch for when locating commercial mold damage.

Signs of Commercial Mold Damage and Mold in the Home

Mold growth is likely following a flood, but it’s also likely following a leak. The problem is many people have no idea there is a leak in the wall, and there is mold growth behind walls for days or even weeks without their knowledge. Mold growth behind walls is dangerous because no one knows it is there, and it can spread fast. Once it grows, mold damage spreads in under 72 hours. Mildew, fungus, dry rot, and a smelly odor might alert home or business owners to mold growth behind walls, and it’s important to recognize the signs.

Mildew growing anywhere is a problem. Mildew might not be mold, but it’s similar in the way it grows. It needs the same conditions as mold, which means seeing mildew indicates mold is already a problem or will become a problem. The same goes for dry rot. It doesn’t mean there is mold present all the time, but it does require a lot of moisture to occur, which is why dry rot is something home and business owners must handle. Any form of dry rot is a sign there is excess moisture in the home. It’s best to call a professional mold removal restoration company for the proper mitigation and remediation techniques right away.

Smelly odor issues occur often when mold growth behind the walls occurs. The first assumption is deodorization can handle a smelly odor, but it’s a musty odor that is only covered up for a while with deodorization. There’s nothing wrong with using deodorization to make a smelly odor seems more pleasant, but it doesn’t get rid of mold growth. It’s especially dangerous to ignore this odor if it’s black mold growing in the wall. Most people don’t know what kind of mold growth is present, but black mold is a big health concern.

Health Concerns Regarding Mold in the Home and Commercial Mold Damage

Most people assume it’s only black mold they should worry about, but all mold has the ability to become toxic.

People always look for a way to save money, and some people believe DIY mold removal is the answer. It’s not the answer. In fact, it’s a bigger issue. Mold removal requires remediation and mitigation with the help of a professional. It’s not for anyone to handle on their own. Removing mold without professional help typically means people do nothing more than cause mold spores to get into the air and spread rapidly throughout the home.

Turn off the air conditioner. Turn off the heat, and let someone come in and handle the mold problem with their professional equipment. Doing this allows mold to become stagnant in one area of the home or office without the systems circulating air throughout a home or office. Mold in the home and commercial mold damage requires a restoration company to help remove the fungus and handle proper deodorization techniques. and Let the pros from a restoration company do the work correctly when mold damage requires mold removal, mitigation, and remediation.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on mold.

The Proper Steps Following Water Damage at Home or Work

6/26/2017 (Permalink)

The Proper Steps Following Water Damage at Home or Work

Water damage restoration is not an option when a home or business finds water damage. Whether it’s an inside job from a leak or sewer problem or an outside job caused by flood waters, water damage is not something that can be ignored for even a moment. Every second counts when water damage occurs in a building. The more time water is left sitting, the faster mold occurs and the more damage the water does to the structure. There are specific steps to take when someone finds water in the home or water in the business, and they’re outlined right here.

Call for Emergency Water Restoration Services

There is not a second to waste when water in the home or water in the business is a problem. Call immediately for help. Water restoration companies are open 24-hours per day. Water and flood damage are not things that honor nights or weekends or even holidays, so that’s why these professionals are always in the office to provide immediate restoration and mitigation services to people who find water in the home or water in the business.

Call Insurance About Water in the Home or Water in the Business

Before anyone does anything else, it’s imperative to call for insurance adjusters to come assess the situation. They’ll need to see how much damage was done when flood damage or other water was introduced to a house or office, and they’ll need to figure out how much they owe you to handle this situation.

Wait for Inspection

Before the water cleanup process begins, professional restoration companies inspect the water or flood damage. This step is not a waste of time. It’s imperative they do this to ensure there is nothing else of concern. The water is tested to see if its clean water or contaminated water, they see the property, and they figure out what it will take to fix this issue for a home or business owner.

Water Cleanup and the Drying Process

Once the inspect process is complete, it’s time to begin the water cleanup and drying process. Professional equipment is brought into the home or office affected by water to clean it up. It’s vacuumed up with this equipment, and the water is disposed of properly depending on what kind of water it is and whether it’s contaminated. Once this occurs, the drying process begins. Pros use equipment that can reach places a fan can’t get to so it helps with the process of drying these areas. This ensures nothing is missed, and no moisture is left behind for mold to find and begin its own growth.

The Cleaning Process

The cleaning process is a simple one, but it does require the use of professional equipment. Once it occurs, it’s time for affected items to go through an extensive professional cleaning. Everything furniture to clothing and décor that is wet from flood waters or other damaging water must be cleaned professionally. This is especially true when the moisture damage is from sewage or another form of contaminated water.

The Restoration and Mitigation Process

This is the final process. This one might involve the help of a contractor if drywall must be replaced. It’s the act of putting everything in a home or office back together. It might be as simple as replacing drywall and painting a small area or it might be more complicated. Some damage requires major reconstruction and mitigation. The longer it is wet, the more damage occurs.

It’s a safe idea to call a professional right away to avoid as much damage as possible. The more damage is prevented when flood damage or other water enter a home or office, the less expensive and invasive it is to treat the issues later. Don’t let things sit while figuring out what to do about the problem at hand. It’s wise to handle water cleanup and mitigation right now the right way.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on water damage.

Inside the Fire Damage Restoration Process

6/26/2017 (Permalink)

Inside the Fire Damage Restoration Process

Fire damage can be a very costly and traumatic experience. When a fire disaster strikes, homeowners have a great deal of problems with which they have to contend with. Depending on the severity of the fire, families will need a temporary place to stay, they have to deal with insurance companies and find a dependable company of professionals to take care of fire cleanup.

After the fire trucks leave, the cleanup begins. The property will have widespread damage that only a highly-trained fire damage restoration team can fix. These professionals will restore the property to its pre-fire condition. The deep-cleaning methods they employ will rid the home or business of smoke damage, soot damage and other odors that can linger in carpet, walls and upholstery.

Fire damage in the home needs a fast response. Companies that specialize in fire cleanup can tackle any problem, big or small. So even if there's fire in a business or commercial fire damage, fire damage restoration specialists will safely restore the property with as little disruption as possible.

Before help arrives, the property owner should do everything within reason to protect the home. Safely removing belongings that have soot damage or smoke damage is the first step after a fire in a home has taken place. Restoration professionals will then perform a fire damage assessment to determine the severity. During the fire cleanup, the roof will receive tarp and windows boarded if necessary. Fire in a home is generally on a smaller scale than fire in a business. However, the same steps will be utilized to eliminate the smoke smell and smoke damage, so that the property will be restored back to its pristine condition.

The removal of soot and the heavy smoke smell is an important step in restoring a home. After a fire in a home, soot and smoke smells can be embedded deep inside the structure, furniture, flooring and upholstery. Professionals will use a number of specialized cleaning methods to extract water and clean and deodorize areas of the home. Water damage can take place after fire damage due when firemen put the fire out. It is imperative that water be extracted during fire damage restoration to prevent the set up of mold.

Fire in a business or commercial fire damage can be far more costly. In most cases, the job is bigger and a business owner stands to lose a great deal of money while waiting for the completion of the fire cleanup. Smoke damage and soot damage in a business can be dangerous for customers to inhale. The complete remediation of odors and anything that can pose a threat to customers must be taken care of.

Commercial fire damage to hospitals, retail stores, food services and educational facilities is available 24/7. A fire damage restoration team can quickly provide services to help dry documents, restore and clean electronics and removal of the smoke smells and soot damage that can linger. When commercial fire damage happens, professionals will get your office space cleaned and deodorized in no time.

Fire in a business can be devastating to the owner's bottom line. Time is of the essence. Unlike a fire in a home, a business needs to be up and running as soon as possible. There may be a need for other repairs such as replacing carpeting, ceilings, drywall and furniture. A service professional will walk the homeowner through the entire process and answer all of their questions.

Anyone who has lost their home or business through a fire should contact a fire damage restoration specialist as soon as possible to help restore it to its pre-fire condition.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on fire damage.

Tips on Mold Removal

6/26/2017 (Permalink)

Tips on Mold Removal

Molds have their place in the environment, just like any other component of nature. However, mold damage can be an insidious problem for homeowners because of the costly mold removal, deodorization, and remediation process. In this regard, learning how to get rid of harmful fungus entirely may protect the value of a property and the entire home without hiring commercial mold damage specialists.

The major equipment of mold damage remediation includes an air scrubber and a dehumidifier. The humidifier lowers the humidity levels in the affected regions for mitigation of fungus development that causes mold damage. The air scrubber helps in deodorization of smelly odor and filtering out fungus spores when removing the affected material. Commercial mold damage specialists recommend the following steps of removing mold.

Locating the Existing Fungus in the Home

This is the first phase of mold removal, mitigation, and remediation. The search for areas with mold damage should begin from the moisture rich areas because mold is likely to develop from damp places such as kitchens, bathrooms, and the basement. Mold is easily detected by sight and smell since the mildew produces a distinct musty smelly odor. Areas that have experienced water damage are the main harbors of mold in home. Fuzzy-looking spots are a sign of mildew and mold. One may seek help from commercial mold damage specialists in case the mold is hard to detect.

Blocking of Leaks

After locating the mold in home, it is important to obstruct the source of moisture which is the primary requirement for mold growth is a source of water. Mitigation of mildew growth can be achieved by sorting out the humid and damp regions. At times, it might be elusive to pinpoint leaks, hence the need for services from a leak detection company. The mildew infested area should be sealed to prevent further spreading of mold in home.

Mold Removal

It is important to wear latex gloves, safety glasses, and a respirator before beginning. If the mold infested area is dry, it should be sprayed lightly with water to lower the incidence of airborne spores during cleaning. Commercial mold removal products can be purchased from home repair or hardware stores.

Detergents and a sponge can also be used to remove visible mold from hard surfaces like metal. Porous surfaces such as wood or drywall may lack an easy cleanup method. Therefore, they may require cutting away and replacement. The equipment, sponges, and any other material used to clean the mold in home should be placed in a heavy garbage bag. If possible, the garbage bag should be removed via a nearby exit and not through the main house to prevent distribution of mold spores. The house will also require some deodorization to get rid of smelly odor.

Preventing Further Mold Growth

Mold spores and fungus are fed by water or moist air that condenses on reaching the dew point. To avoid future mold development in the home, it is important to control the moisture levels in the attic, inside the house, and under the house. An attic fan with a humidistat can pull significant amounts of moisture from the attic during winter. The kitchen and bathroom can be fitted with vent fans that are vented to the exterior of the house, and not to the garage, foundation or attic.

Plumbing, foundation or roofing leaks should be repaired and dried out immediately. Mold infested cardboard and floor coverings will require being discarded. Wood in the foundation and attic should be treated with baron-containing products. It is also important to take action immediately a damp, smelly odor is detected in the house.

Mold can be a bigger nuisance than a little brother in elementary school days. The long list of cons makes it an issue that should be handled with urgency. Commercial mold damage specialists should be contacted for mitigation, remediation, and deodorization in case of adverse mold growth.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Tips for Dealing with Flood Damage in Your Home

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

Tips for Dealing with Flood Damage in Your Home

Dealing with water damage in the home can be devastating and costly. Even if you don't live in a flood zone, there is still a chance that you can have some flood damage that ravishes your home. There are a variety of things you can do to ensure that your house stays dry and clean no matter what the issue happens to be. Whether this be a leaking pipe or a full-blown flood in your neighborhood, there are ways to prevent excessive damage and clean it up once it strikes.

Preventing a Flood

Before you deal with any water in home or water in business, you need to take steps to prevent it altogether. This might include taking out an insurance policy that covers flood damage and water damage. This coverage will often pay for the mitigation of flood damage, preventing you from having to pay it all upfront.

If you have older piping throughout the home, it's crucial that you have it inspected and repaired regularly. A burst pipe might not seem like such a big deal, but it can cause an enormous flood throughout the house in just a few hours. This could all be prevented if you just checked for leaks and floods, making it a habit to inspect the home regularly.

If you happen to live in a neighborhood that gets a lot of flooding, consider putting a barrier around the property to prevent excess flood water from entering and going into the basement of your home. Water in home and water in business can cause tens of thousands of dollars worth of damages, so preventing the flood from even entering the building is key. If need be, consider moving to another area that doesn't deal with as much flooding so that water damage mitigation is a thing of the past for you and your family.

Insurance and Coverage

If you have flood damage and water damage coverage on your property, chances are that it will pay for the mitigation and water cleanup. Restoration is vital when getting your home or office back to its former glory. If you contact a local water cleanup or mitigation company, don't be surprised to hear an extravagant amount that is next to impossible to afford if you don't have some type of insurance coverage. While it might seem annoying at first to pay for this type of insurance, you'll be glad that you did when water damage becomes a true issue.

Calling a Remediation Company

A mitigation company is there to help with water cleanup and the drying of your home or business. Water in home or water in business can be problematic in a variety of ways. For one, if the proper drying techniques aren't implemented, the water can begin to grow fungus and mold, which is incredibly unhealthy for you and your family to be living around and breathing. Restoration involves doing a thorough inspection of the house for any mold spores, and then the company will begin drying the area to prevent it from growing altogether.

Water cleanup and property drying only takes a few days, so you'll have your home back to normal shortly after dealing with a flood. Water in home and water in business properties shouldn't be cleaned up on your own because there are specialty tools and measures that need to be taken to thoroughly repair the area. Restoration can be pretty expensive, so you should either work with your insurance company on the price for the project or come to a deal with the remediation company themselves. If you are dealing with damage from a flood, it's time to contact a local restoration company to dry out the home or office and bring it back to its former self. There is no reason to try to do this job on your own when there are expert companies willing and waiting to help.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on water damage.

Why You Need To Hire Professionals For Fire Cleanup

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

Why You Need To Hire Professionals For Fire Cleanup

Fire damage has adverse impacts on people’s lives. Apart from physical injuries and health issues, fire in home or fire in business can cause tremendous damage to property and belongings. This is undoubtedly disastrous and devastating to those concerned considering the damage to their valuables. If you find yourself in a fire in home or fire in business situation, you may be worried about what to do after such a tragedy. You can turn to fire mitigation or damage restoration professionals for help.

Fire damage restoration involves cleaning the structures, getting rid of smoke damage, soot damage and smoke smell, replacing the damaged areas and installing new elements. Easy as this project may seem, it is actually a difficult one that requires professional service. Hiring the services of a fire damage professional will be beneficial.

Whether you're dealing with a residential or commercial fire damage situation, it is imperative to get professional help as soon as possible. Residential and commercial fire damage cleanup professionals have the skill and experience to handle the job efficiently and effectively. Here are the reasons to hire fire damage restoration to provide fire cleanup service after a fire in home or fire in business incident:

Fast Service

In fire cleanup situations, immediate action is needed. Trained professionals arrive quickly and start the fire cleanup process almost immediately. A quick response helps to prevent further damage and minimize the fire or damage clean-up and restoration costs.

Fire restoration professionals are typically ready to take care of the situation and remove smoke smell and smoke damage promptly. They can schedule quick or emergency fire mitigation services within several hours of your initial contact, and work closely with you throughout the process to help you make smart decisions about cleanup, repair, replacement or restoration of your property.

Assessment

Professional Fire damage cleaning involves several steps. First, fire cleanup technicians inspect the building and its contents to get an idea of the damage sustained, and what needs to be repaired or replaced. This involves checking for soot damage, smoke damage and other damaged parts of the building. This way, fire damage restoration specialists can determine the areas that need restoration. This assessment will also enlighten the fire damage professionals on the proper cleaning and restoration method for home or commercial fire damage.

High-Tech Equipment

Professionals use state-of-the-art equipment and the highest quality cleaning supplies and advanced methods that provide the best fire cleanup service, ensuring your complete satisfaction.

They constantly update their their knowledge of the fire damage restoration industry through training and research. All cleaning supplies and compounds utilized are designed to get the job done properly.

Quality Cleaning

Fire damage restoration professionals will take appropriate steps to remove smoke smell and repair your residential or commercial property when a fire in home or fire in business occurs. They will restore and repair smoke damage, soot damage and clean up smoke smell caused by the fire in home or business. They will extract all the water and moisture and dry out your commercial or residential environment and your belongings.

Safety

After a fire in home or fire in business, it is natural for the property owner to want to attempt to handle the cleaning of the building and affected contents, but incorrect action can be hazardous or cause further damage. Fire damage, smoke damage and soot damage cleaning provided by residential or commercial fire damage professionals will ensure safe and effective cleanup.

Qualified professionals are reliable, and security-minded technicians who will keep your home or business safe as they do their job. They take every measure to make that their staff has the right training and is certified.

Considerations

Professionals can help to restore your property to its pre-fire condition as soon as possible. They are highly skilled, and they are aware of the need to start the cleanup process quickly to limit further damage to the property and its contents. Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on fire damage.

Professional Mold Removal and Remediation Services

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

Professional Mold Removal and Remediation Services

Mold is a type of fungus whose spores grow quickly into colonies if the environment is conducive. The microscopic organisms survive by digesting decaying organic matter, which explains why they are associated with a smelly odor. This is because they do not have chlorophyll that helps other plants to produce food.

The growth of mold results from water damage in a home or business that was not restored quickly. When water sources in a business enterprise are not maintained, it may end up causing leaky roofs and plumbing problems. Such problems cause dampness that creates a good condition that facilitates a commercial mold damage. You will find mold in home wallpapers, ceiling, carpets, wooden walls, and other wet or damp indoor surfaces.

Mold in a home starts growing within 48 hours in a damp place and if it is left unchecked, it spreads very quickly in a few hours. It has a negative impact on the physical structure of your home and business. If mold damage has adversely spread in your home, it will affect the quality of air through smelly odor. When you detect mold damage in your home or business, it is important to immediately call an expert specialized in mold remediation.

How is Mold Removal and Remediation achieved?

Fungus spores are microscopic and exist everywhere as they are airborne. Mildew can get into your house through the windows or the air conditioner, clothing’s, pets among other. This makes it impossible to achieve comprehensive mold removal from business or homes. If the mildew spores get moist, they grow into colonies and spread in the house.

Remediation involves cleaning up all the existing mold, removal of the smelly odor through deodorization and avoiding being exposed to the mold. It also requires preventing new fungus growth and addressing its main cause; the moisture sources.

There are levels of intensive mold remediation that comprise the following steps:
• Repairing the moisture problem. This is a mitigation step achieved by addressing the water leakages to prevent the growth of new mold spores.
• Isolation of the areas that have suffered commercial mold damage. It is important to have all the doors and windows closed to prevent the spread of mold damage into other areas in the house.
• Using suppress dust. This is misting or deodorization of the contaminated areas to prevent further growth
• Removal of mildew infested material. All the mold damage that has occurred on porous materials is removed from the house, placed in plastic bags, and disposed of in the regular trash.
• Mold in home clean up. The non-porous materials that were infested by mold should be cleaned up using a wire brush. This helps in mold removal alongside wiping out the affected areas using a detergent solution.
• Drying the cleaned material. The items that had been infested by mold should be cleaned using dehumidifiers or raising the indoor temperature as a mold mitigation measure.

Mitigation of mold growth

The growth of mold in your home will thrive well in moist environments that are commonly created by slow leaks, flood, broken pipes, or high indoor humidity. This means that without water, mildew cannot grow in the house or business. To prevent commercial mold damage, it is important to consider effective water damage restoration. This will ensure that no moisture or dampness is left in the house, properties that could facilitate mold growth.

Can you take DIY measure for Mold removal?

DIY removal is not recommended because you might not have adequate knowledge about the best ways for intensive remediation on commercial mold damage. Using experts is the most suitable option because they have protective gear and skills on deodorization and other effective mold removal strategies for your home or business. However, there are mitigation measures that homeowners can take in place of deodorization. To remove the smelly odor caused by the growth of fungus, homeowners should make sure that there are no leakages in the house. VisitProfessional Mold Removal and Remediation Services
Mold is a type of fungus whose spores grow quickly into colonies if the environment is conducive. The microscopic organisms survive by digesting decaying organic matter, which explains why they are associated with a smelly odor. This is because they do not have chlorophyll that helps other plants to produce food.

The growth of mold results from water damage in a home or business that was not restored quickly. When water sources in a business enterprise are left unmaintained, it may end up causing leaky roofs and plumbing problems. Such problems cause dampness that creates a good condition that facilitates a commercial mold damage. You will find mold in home wallpapers, ceiling, carpets, wooden walls, and other wet or damp indoor surfaces.

Mold in a home starts growing within 48 hours in a damp place and if it is left unchecked, it spreads very quickly in a few hours. It has a negative impact on the physical structure of your home and business. If mold damage has adversely spread in your home, it will affect the quality of air through smelly odor. When you detect mold damage in your home or business, it is important to immediately call an expert specialized in mold remediation.

How is Mold Removal and Remediation achieved
Fungus spores are microscopic and exist everywhere as they are airborne. Mildew can get into your house through the windows or the air conditioner, clothing’s, pets among other. This makes it impossible to achieve comprehensive mold removal from business or homes. If the mildew spores get moist, they grow into colonies and spread in the house.

Remediation involves cleaning up all the existing mold, removal of the smelly odor through deodorization and avoiding being exposed to the mold. It also requires preventing new fungus growth and addressing its main cause; the moisture sources.

There are levels of intensive mold remediation that comprise the following steps:
• Repairing the moisture problem. This is a mitigation step achieved by addressing the water leakages to prevent the growth of new mold spores.
• Isolation of the areas that have suffered commercial mold damage. It is important to have all the doors and windows closed to prevent the spread of mold damage into other areas in the house.
• Using suppress dust. This is misting or deodorization of the contaminated areas to prevent further growth
• Removal of mildew infested material. All the mold damage that has occurred on porous materials is removed from the house, placed in plastic bags, and disposed of in the regular trash.
• Mold in home clean up. The non-porous materials that were infested by mold should be cleaned up using a wire brush. This helps in mold removal alongside wiping out the affected areas using a detergent solution.
• Drying the cleaned material. The items that had been infested by mold should be cleaned using dehumidifiers or raising the indoor temperature as a mold mitigation measure.

Mitigation of mold growth

The growth of mold in your home will thrive well in moist environments that are commonly created by slow leaks, flood, broken pipes, or high indoor humidity. This means that without water, mildew cannot grow in the house or business. To prevent commercial mold damage, it is important to consider effective water damage restoration. This will ensure that no moisture or dampness is left in the house, properties that could facilitate mold growth.

Can you take DIY measure for Mold removal?

DIY removal is not recommended because you might not have adequate knowledge about the best ways for intensive remediation on commercial mold damage. Using experts is the most suitable option because they have protective gear and skills on deodorization and other effective mold removal strategies for your home or business. However, there are mitigation measures that homeowners can take in place of deodorization. To remove the smelly odor caused by the growth of fungus, homeowners should make sure that there are no leakages in the house. Visit http://www.SERVPRObloomingtonrichfield.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Fire Restoration For Minneapolis Homes

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

Damage From a Small Christmas Tree Fire

We're Always Here to Help!

We were called out to a small house fire in Minneapolis.  The home had minimal damage from the flames, but much more damage due to the smoke.  It was right after the New Year and the homeowner's small Christmas tree caught fire.  Thankfully she was able to put it out herself.  She was a little overwhelmed, especially when we told her the process of getting her and her home back to where it was before the fire happened.  We assured her that we were there to help and to do everything we could to make the process as smooth and quick as possible.  We promptly packed out almost all of her belongings, she moved out of her home, and the cleaning and restoration process began. 

Having fire damage your home can be a devastating event to deal with, especially when it is around the holidays.  When we work with customers who have suffered fire damage in their home, it is not just about cleaning and restoring their house to its original condition.  It is also about helping them though the process of dealing with their loss and helping them get their lives back together.  That is what we are here for!

In almost no time at all we had our customer back to "Like it never even happened" and she couldn't had been more thrilled.  We received a letter from her shortly after we got her back in her home.  It stated:

"I may only hope that I find the correct verbiage to convince you without question that every SERVPRO associate I had the personal pleasure to meet and interact with, are, in short, the BEST!  I am a retired Detective Sergeant of the New York City Police Department and a resident of Minneapolis, MN for the past 22 years.  I 'read' people quickly and very accurately.  As 'out of it' as I was at our initial meeting, I shook your hands, looked each of you directly in the eye, and understood, without question, that you were there to 'serve', 'protect', and 'get the job done'.  I was SAFE in your hands....and, therefore, I place myself in them without further question.  I never placed a phone call that your project manager was not there to answer.  It never failed to astound me how often you would just appear at the house to make sure that all was going as planned and promised.  In short...... you each possess the highest professional integrity and follow through I have ever experienced.  A terrible moment in my life has given me the special opportunity and personal pleasure to have met each of you....and, for this, I am most grateful.  You are the jewels in the crown of SERVPRO.  I am back in my home because of each of you, as your ad says, "Like it never even happened."

To find out more about our fire restoration services, please click on the following link. 

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield Fire Restoration Services

Heavy Rain Can Cause More Damage Than You Think

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement Due to a Sump Pump Failure

Heavy rains can overwhelm city sewer systems and sump pumps throughout the south metro area.  With our highly trained specialists, we were able to take care of many homeowners that were in need of help.  Being faster to any size disaster, we will always be there when we are needed!

Restoring storm and flood damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your property to pre-storm condition. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to minimize secondary damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield utilizes advanced equipment and technology to quicken the restoration time and to minimize cost. We are proudly serving our community and surrounding areas with 24/7 emergency availability. Don't hesitate and give us a call today! (952) 854-2000

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration in Minnesota

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

Faster to ANY Size Disaster

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield?

Restoring storm and flood damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your residential or commercial property to pre-storm condition. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to minimize secondary damage. When a major storm hits, it may overwhelm local restoration companies. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield can scale our resources by accessing the equipment and personnel of 1,700 Franchises and can also access our Disaster Recovery Team that specializes in major storms and catastrophic events. Nothing is too big for us to handle!

Storms and inclement weather can be devastating to any home or business. Wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage in a matter of minutes. There’s never a convenient time for flooding or storm damage to strike. For a business, every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, you want to make sure you have the right people there to help. Click here to read what to do and what NOT to do after a flooding event has occurred and while SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield is on their way!

Remember, we live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield is close by and ready to respond to storm and disaster events. We are proud to be an active member of our communities and want to do our part to make our communities the best they can be!

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield utilizes advanced equipment and technology to quicken the restoration time and to minimize cost. We proudly serve our communities and surrounding areas with 24/7 emergency availability. Give us a call today and we'll make it "Like it never even happened." (952) 854-2000

Spring Cleaning Advice for Minneapolis and St. Paul Homes

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

Spring Cleaning is Inevitable

How To Clean and Treat Hardwood Floor Right!

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield not only takes care of water damage, fire damage and mold remediation, we can also handle any size cleaning needs whether it be residential or commercial! We can take care of whatever comes our way including that spring cleaning that nobody likes to do. 

Spring cleaning is here and everyone loves the glowing warmth of beautiful wood floors, but as our friends at Homes.com point out, unfortunately very few people know how to take care of their wood floors correctly and never really get to experience what they could look like at their best and brightest.

Cleaning and maintaining your wood floors isn’t terribly complicated or difficult. In fact, it’s more about what you should not do than it is about a mandatory minimum maintenance. Spring is here. What better time could there be to learn how to clean and maintain your wood floors? 

Let’s start things off easy. Sweep, dust-mop, or vacuum your floors on a weekly basis, especially in high foot traffic areas. Built up dirt and grime can grind into the finish of your floors, dulling the surface shine that you’re looking for. If you’re going to use a vacuum to keep your floors clean, then make sure you are using a soft-bristled attachment. Do not use a vacuum with a rotating brush or beater bar and if your wood floors are new, forget what we told you and follow your manufacturer’s cleaning instructions instead!

If your floors are older and it’s been some time since they were finished, then a simple cleaning may not do much to get them to shine. If the wax on your floors has become discolored or has accumulated a build-up of dirt, you will need to reach for a liquid cleanser and wax that was made specifically for your type of wood flooring. Make sure that you are using the correct product for your floors. Products meant for tile or linoleum floors may actually hurt the finish of your wood floors. Cleaning products should be solvent, not water, based. Apply the cleaner/wax with a cloth and rub it gently to remove old wax and surface accumulations of dirt. Wipe it clean, let it dry, and then buff it to a shine.

Light, dirt, fluids, and excessive heat can all damage the finish on your floors. In order to minimize damage from dirt and fluids, don’t let them accumulate or sit on the surface. In order to protect your floors from the heat and light of the sun, use protective window treatments. Keep your pets’ nails trimmed, avoid walking on your floors in high heels and cleats, use furniture pads when possible, and rearrange your furniture as often as feasible to avoid establishing wear patterns and damaging your floors.

There are many things that can be done to protect and maintain your hardwood floors. On top of that, there are many things that need to be done in general to take care of all of your spring cleaning correctly. Click here to check out a spring cleaning checklist that might help you during this crazy time after all the snow has left us!

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield is ready to help whenever we are needed. When there are cleaning needs, we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (952) 854-2000

Tips for a Successful Move From Your Bloomington Home

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

A lot happens before, during, and after a move!

Your family’s move can be an exciting time for all of you, but it can also be a stressful and sad time too. Your children may have different feelings as well.  They might be scared about going to a new school, excited about your new home, sad about leaving old friends, or even angry with you about moving.  With all of the emotions that come with moving to a new home, make it a little easier by following some tips that can at least make packing a little more seamless for you.  Simply click here to read what you can do to try and make that move a little less strenuous for you.  

Also don't forget during that selling process, if you are in need of some cleaning to get that home sold faster, you can always depend on SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield to take care of your cleaning needs!  Our residential cleaning services will ease the burden of cleaning your home and can even make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened." We all know a clean home sells faster and we can help make that happen!   

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield utilizes advanced equipment, technology, and expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service could provide.  We are proud to serve our Bloomington, Richfield, and surrounding communities! Give us a call today! (952) 854-2000

DIY Carpet Cleaning Could Cause More Issues in Richfield Homes

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

Need Your Carpets Cleaned? Call us TODAY!

Let SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield clean the carpet in your home!

Although it may seem like a smart alternative, do-it-yourself home carpet cleaners can’t match professional services. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield's certified professionals have access to a variety of cleansing agents, equipment, and other tools that enable deep and effective cleaning. Our certified technicians also have valuable skills and knowledge that helps them determine when the job has been done right. In fact, an untrained person can damage the carpet further if they are not careful, and not to mention that the process can be physically strenuous and stressful on a person.

Home carpet cleaners are just not as powerful as commercial options, and this does not mean that do-it-yourself varieties are always safe to use. An untrained person may not know how to select the right detergent for their carpet fibers, leading to discoloration, or worse. Though it may seem like operating that how water extractor may seem easy enough, untrained people tend to leave too much behind and that can create odors, damage the fibers, and possibly provide the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold to grow.

Our certified crews have undergone extensive training and education to help improve their skills. We know how to tackle a variety of soils and fabric types, employing safe treatment methods that extract everything down to the base of the pile, and even further. If a family wants to preserve its carpeting for as long as possible and keep it feeling and looking nice, there is no alternative to calling SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield today!.

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield utilizes advanced equipment and technology and we proudly serve our Richfield community and surrounding areas. Give us a call today! (952) 854-2000

Always Call an Expert for Repairs

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Crews Are Ready at a Moments Notice!

A water damage restoration service is the kind of professional that no one wants to call, but when they are needed, it is important not to delay. Homeowners know that moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building, the response should be the same. Bring in SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, don’t try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. A certified water damage restoration service like SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, we have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.

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

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield utilizes advanced equipment and technology to quicken the restoration time and to minimize cost. We proudly serve our community and surrounding areas with 24/7 emergency availability. Give us a call today! (952) 854-2000

Call a Specialist!

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

Water extraction from a flooded home.

When and why you need to call a specialist!

"The thing about being a water damage and repair specialist is that no one seems to care about what you do until they desperately need your help."  No matter what time of the day or night you can count on us to be there to help.  Don't hesitate to call!

We are water removal and cleanup specialists and are ready to service your home or business when flooding or water leaks cause water damage. We quickly dry your property using state-of-the-art water removal equipment and advanced drying techniques, documenting the drying process to make sure your property is dry and the job is done right. Check out when and why you should call a specialist by clicking here! We are always here to help.  Give us a call today! 

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield utilizes advanced equipment, technology, and expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service could provide.  We are proud to serve our Bloomington, Richfield, and surrounding communities! Give us a call today! (952) 854-2000

Lightening Strike!

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

Some damage to the kitchen in the home.

A lightening bolt struck this customer's home in the early hours one morning, waking her to see something she never thought she ever would.  Her home was on fire.  SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield had the privilege of helping this woman get her contents cleaned and help her put her life back together as much as we could.  Taking into consideration all the personal and sentimental items that were there, every technician took extra care and went above and beyond to make sure that what was able to be salvaged, came back to her in the best condition possible.  

When it comes to water, fire or mold and anything in between, we are always ready anytime day or night and are always here to help!  Don't hesitate to call today!

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield utilizes advanced equipment, technology, and expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service could provide.  We are proud to serve our Bloomington, Richfield, and surrounding communities! Give us a call today! (952) 854-2000

LARGE LOSS!

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

Our Disaster Recovery Team Trailer

Ready for ANY Size Disaster

With the support from our offices around the country and from our corporate headquarters located in Tennessee, we can handle any size disaster.  With teams in place like our large loss teams to storm teams planted all across the country, there is nothing too small or too large that we can't handle. Put together all the resources that we have to make it "Like it never even happened" you know we're here to help. Don't hesitate to call, we'll be there anytime!

It doesn't matter whether it is water, fire, mold or any type of cleaning in between we can handle any size situation.  Don't hesitate to call us today to take care of all your needs!  We are pleased to serve our Eagan/Apple Valley and Bloomington/Richfield communities and surrounding areas! Call us today!

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Richfield utilizes advanced equipment, technology, and expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service could provide.  We are proud to serve our Eagan, Apple Valley, Bloomington, Richfield and surrounding communities! Give us a call today! (952) 854-2000