Exploring the 3 Contaminated Water Types

8/28/2022 (Permalink)

Contaminated water in Oviedo, FL, is something that no one wants to deal with, but it happens, so you want to ensure that you are informed. This guide helps you take the right steps to restore your home following a flood or bad water situation. 

Clean Water

Also referred to as white water, this type is considered clean and not harmful to people or your pets. The one exception to this rule would be if detergent got into the water. You may experience a flood of this water type due to situations, such as the following:

• Overflowing sink
• Toilet overflow or backup
• Damaged or broken water supply line
• Faucet damage or a severe leak

It is important to note that while this is initially considered harmless in most cases, it can progress to contamination within 48 hours, so prompt action to clean it up is often imperative. 

Contaminated Water

This type of wastewater may flow from your washing machine, dishwasher, or bathroom fixtures. It usually does not hurt people or pets, but it can contain impurities that can pose a danger to them. Some of the impurities that may be present include cleaning agents, food residue, and household chemicals. Within 48 hours, the associated mold and bacteria growth can transform into black water.

Sewer Water or Outside Flood Water

Sewer water is referred to as black water, and since it contains sewage, it is considered the most dangerous form of adulterated water. You should not attempt to go into an area with it without the proper protection.

Understanding clean water, contaminated water, black water, and the supply line that brings the water to your home can make it easier for you to take the appropriate action should you end up with unwanted water in your home. The faster you act, the more you reduce the potential negative issues, such as destruction of your belongings and mold growth. 

Humidity: Primary and Secondary Damages Explained by Restoration Experts

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East restoration experts to mitigate primary and secondary damage due to storm, flooding + water.

Different Types of Water Damage

Whenever excessive moisture gets inside a building, the problems it causes can be broken down into two categories: primary and secondary damage.

Primary Damage

When water leaks from a pipe or an appliance, it comes in contact with contents and building materials. Anything that happens due to direct contact with liquid water, such as the carpet's de-lamination, is considered primary damage. 

Secondary Damage

Once water gets inside a structure, it naturally raises humidity levels indoors when moisture from wet materials evaporates into the air. Elevated humidity levels can also cause building materials issues since water transfers from the air into dry materials to reach equilibrium. When water vapor causes structural problems, it is called secondary damage.

Extraction procedures help reduce primary issues, and structural drying helps mitigate both primary and secondary water damage. When our SERVPRO technicians deal with any water damage situation, we monitor both relative and specific humidity.

What Controls Humidity?

Controlling humidity levels in a structure helps speed up structural drying times. Wet materials dry out faster if the humidity inside a building is kept low using air movers and dehumidifiers. Monitoring and strategic placement of these devices optimize drying times. When we keep humidity levels low, we also reduce water vapor in the air, causing fewer secondary issues. 

Relative Humidity

Relative Humidity (RH) is a measure of how much water is in the air at any given temperature. RH is expressed as a percentage, so if the relative humidity is 100%, then the air is holding as much moisture as it can at that temperature. At this point, if not sooner, condensation can occur inside the building. "Raining" inside your home can only exacerbate the already water damaging effects. Air can hold more water at higher temperatures, so increasing the house's temperature will lower the relative humidity. That is one of the features of our HEPA filters. Not only does the filter suck the moisture from the air, but it also heats the air to dry the space quicker.

Specific Humidity 

The temperature has such a significant effect on relative humidity, but it's not always a good gauge of how much water exists in the air. Specific humidity is the actual amount of moisture in the air. When our restoration professionals measure specific humidity, they count the actual grains of moisture in each pound of air. To find specific humidity, we measure relative humidity levels and the room's temperature. We then put these numbers in a psychrometric chart that gives us the grains per pound (GPP) number. 

If you ever need help with issues related to water or humidity, such as flood damage, storm damage, or microbial growth, call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East at (407) 985-3200, available 24 hours a day.

Approximate The Distance To Lightning Strike: Know How To Prepare for Storms

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Approximate The Distance To Lightning Strike: Know How To Prepare for Storms

7/11/2022 - Future Scheduled Date

Know How To Prepare for Storms

Lightning causes around 43 deaths in the U.S. annually (based on statistics from 1989-2018). Thankfully, this number is only 10% of the average lightning strikes, the other 90% are left alive, but with various degrees of disability.

Nationally, lightning ranks second only to flash floods in weather-related deaths. Lightning is the most frequent important weather threat to personal safety during the thunderstorm season. Since the threat of lightning is so common, it is typical that many have a lackadaisical approach to protecting themselves. The main reason is that people stay outside too long as thunderstorms approach or form nearby. 

For example, during the early part of the thunderstorm season, "dry" thunderstorms are quite common. With these types of thunderstorms, little or no precipitation reaches the ground and, as a result, people are less likely to seek shelter.  See lightning facts below for statistics on lightning events. 

Did you know?

• The air near a lightning strike is heated to 50,000 ° F, that is hotter than the surface of the sun!
• The average flash could light a 100-watt light bulb for more than 3 months.
• Lightning occurs with all thunderstorms.

While most lightning casualties occur at the beginning of an approaching storm, a significant number of lightning deaths occur after the thunderstorm has passed.  If thunder is heard, then the storm is close enough for a lightning strike.  DO NOT wait for the rain to start before seeking shelter, and do not leave shelter just because the rain has ended. 

A Cool Lightning Hack

You can approximate the distance of lightning!

Did you know you can approximate the distance a storm is from you but counting the time between the flash of lightning and the thunder sound that coincides with the lightning flash? That means you can, at your own home, with minimal supplies, figure out how far a lightning strike is from you!

What You’ll Need:

1. You Ears
2. Your Eyes
3. A watch with a second counter or a phone

From the time you see lightning, it will take the sound of thunder 5 seconds to travel 1 mile. To approximate the miles a strike is from you, count the seconds between the flash and thunder, divide by 5!

For example, if you see a flash of lightning, start a stop watch and hear a large crash of thunder 5 seconds after the flash, your lightning is only 1 mile away! Anything less than 5 seconds is definitely close, so seek cover!

It's not raining, is there still danger from being struck by lightning?

YES!  Lightning often strikes outside of the heavy rain area and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.

Will the rubber soles of my shoes or tires on my car protect me from being struck?

NO! However, the steel frame of a hard-topped car provides a sort of Faraday Cage or Faraday shield. This increases protection if you are not touching metal. Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside the car than outside. When skies darken, or thunderstorms are forecast, look and listen for increasing wind, flashes of lightning, sound of thunder, and static on your AM radio.  While no place is safe from lightning, some places are much safer than others. 

Where you can go…

• Get inside a house or large shelter
• Remain clear of tall, isolated trees and telephone poles
• If possible, move to a sturdy building or hard top automobile
• If you are caught outside, away from shelter, you need to get to a place of safety as quickly as possible. If safe shelter is not possible, lie down on low lying ground or in a ditch.
• If boating or swimming, get out of boats and away from the water, get to land and find shelter immediately

What you can do...

• Watch for signs of an approaching thunderstorm
• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent. This is your best way to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation
• REMEMBER, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to a storm to be struck by lightning

If your home or property has been damaged by severe winds, water, or storms—call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East for a free damage restoration estimate.

We Have The State-of-the-Art Equipment Necessary in Oviedo

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

Saving Facilities After Silicone Roof Water Damage in Orlando, FL

If your office needs commercial water damage mitigation, you can count on a certified SERVPRO team to handle the damages quickly and efficiently, so you can get back to business. No matter how large or small the disaster, professionals are dedicated to restoring your business and ensuring that cleanup is done to code.

Silicone Roofing Risks

While silicone roof coatings can help business owners with flat roofing save on electricity and other costs, there are some risks to consider when implementing this in your space after water damage strikes. These include:

• Abrasion and tear resistance. Compared to other coatings like modified bitumen, silicone roofing is not the most durable. It can get very slippery when wet, which can make it more prone to tears. Foot traffic dropped tools, and other activities can potentially damage the coating. 
  
  
• Attracting dirt. Silicone roofing, which is often white, can get a visible coat of airborne dust and dirt over time, darkening roofing. Clean regularly to maximize the energy-reflective nature of the roof coating and save on HVAC costs.
  
  
• Recoating. While recoating may not be needed as often as it is for other roofing solutions, it is imperative to choose silicone compatible with your current coating. 

How SERVPRO Saves Your Facilities

Suppose you have a roof leak in your facilities. In that case, SERVPRO can use centrifugal air movers and low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers in tandem to pull moisture off of surfaces and eliminate it, replacing the moist air with air that is warm and dry. To dry a wet ceiling, technicians may open a few ceiling panels on either end of the affected area and position equipment so that air circulates straight up and through the space between your ceiling and roofing. This placement also helps warm, dry air circulate through the affected space for better results.

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is here to ensure that your business looks "Like it never even happened." Call (407) 985-3200 today for rapid disaster mitigation.

Is Your Business Prepared for a Fire?

5/29/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Preparedness Means More Than Simply Owning a Fire Extinguisher

A fire is every business owner’s nightmare. Your insurance policy will ensure you can rebuild in the event of a fire. But what about protecting your most important assets: your life and the lives of your employees? To avoid the unspeakable tragedy of losing employees in a fire, it’s necessary to build a fire escape plan.

Tips for Your Business’ Emergency Fire Plan

1. Ensure your business has the proper number of smoke alarms. In newer homes, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires hard-wired, interconnected smoke alarms with battery backup on every building level, outside each work area, and inside each office. If your building is older and smoke alarms are not already in place, install them on every level and outside each work area at a minimum. Test your alarms once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
   
   
2. Teach employees what smoke alarms look and sound like. If your smoke alarm has a test feature, set aside time for a training in which you or a professional teach your employees the fire escape plan and include a smoke alarm test. If it does not have a test feature, there are videos online which provide demonstrations of what smoke alarms sound and look like. Teaching employees to recognize an alarm and know the plan of action ahead of time will give employees more confidence to remain calm during the emergency.
   
   
3. Ensure everyone in the building knows two ways to escape from every room. It may not be an ideal route, but knowing a second exit from a room is advisable. It is also essential to establish a meeting spot outside the building to ensure everyone's arrival to safety. Depending on the size of the building, this may require a customized escape diagram.
   
   
4. Establish an emergency communications plan. As part of your building’s fire escape plan, make sure everyone knows who and how to contact in the event of an emergency.
   
   
5. Practice escaping from your building at least twice a year. This may seem excessive, but fire drills can save lives in the event of a real fire. Employees come and go, so frequently performing this drill makes sure all employees know what to do.

Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East if your business suffers commercial fire damage at (407) 985-3200. 

BBQ Fire Safety

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips to Avoid a Barbecue Fire

The arrival of nice weather calls for grilling out with friends and family. Unfortunately, a grill fire is a real safety hazard, and in the right circumstances, a fun get-together can turn into a disaster in a hurry. You can avoid a barbecue fire by following these tips:

1. Keep the Grill in a Safe Location 

Keep the grill outside on a level surface at least 10 feet from buildings and other flammable objects. Never grill under an overhang or in an enclosed area. Be sure to monitor it closely until it cools.

1. Keep Children and Pets at a Distance

Children and pets should stay at least three feet away from the grill. Ensure that pets on tie-downs cannot reach the grill; they can wrap their line around the grill and pull it over. It will keep them at a safe distance if a grill fire occurs. 

1. Be Mindful of Loose Clothing

Make sure that you wear appropriate attire when you grill. You can tie back everything with an apron. For added safety, use long tongs and spatulas and wear heat-resistant grill gloves.

1. Use a Chimney Starter

A chimney starter is a much safer option than lighter fluid. It will also light the coals more evenly. 

1. Practice the Two-Zone Method

This simple, versatile method creates a much safer grilling experience. Put the hot charcoal on one side of the grill and leave the other side empty. If a flare-up occurs, move the food to the other side until the flame subsides, then move it back to continue cooking. The two-zone method can improve your food quality because it creates a searing side and another side for flame-free slow cooking.

Keep a fire extinguisher near. Do NOT use water; it can make a grease fire flare up. Instead, close the grill lid until the outbreak subsides. If your house sustains fire damage or smoke damage from a grill fire, SERVPRO of Oviedo/Winter Springs East can return it to its original state.

Does Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Perils covered by homeowners insurance policies vary. SERVPRO of Oviedo / WSE cleans microbial contamination. For a free estimate: (901) 382-0900

Mold damage can be costly and happen anywhere, so several insurance companies have restricted or eliminated coverage for this risk under standard policies. If you are concerned about fungus growth at a residence in Memphis, TN, try to identify the problem's source first, then check your policy for mold coverage.

The Cause of Mold Damage Matters

Restoration experts commonly refer to mold as secondary damage, as fungal growth typically results from direct water damage.

Insurers are more likely to cover mold damage that results from one of the following covered incidents:

• Appliance leaks
• Broken or burst pipes
• Pipe leaks

Even if a policy does not cover the cost of fixing the problem, the resulting damage may be covered. Check your policy and contact an insurance agent or adjuster.

3 Ways Insurers Limit Mold Coverage

Many homeowners insurance providers have removed or limited the amount of coverage for fungus growth because it is a higher risk peril. Since mold can grow practically anywhere, anytime in the right conditions—it’s not exclusive to one geographical location. Because of this an insurer may restrict coverage in these ways:

• Exclude mold damage completely
• Only cover microbial testing or cleanup
• Refuse coverage on properties with a history of mold

Read your policy carefully to determine whether there are any conditions under which mold is covered. If mold is not covered, you may want to add an endorsement.

What Is an Endorsement?

It may be possible for policy holders to pay for limited mold coverage. Ask your insurer whether any endorsements are available. This option may be costly, especially if your residence has a history of mold.Homeowners should determine the limitations of their coverage and decide whether to obtain additional mold insurance.

Paying for remediation out of pocket can be very expensive. The best way to prevent mold growth is to mitigate water damage and potential damage. Don’t be caught without the right mold insurance.

Storm Restoration Experts Know How to Dry Your Property

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

For additional information regarding storm damage, visit our service page or blog. We are available 24 hours for emergency response. Call us today.

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East are Leaders in the Storm Restoration Industry for a Reason

Harsh weather conditions like flooding, wind, and storms cause devastating damage to homes and businesses. Property damage due to storm damage and flood water overwhelms many with concerns for personal safety and properties' security.

When this form of damage occurs to your home or business, the first step is to find safety, then contact a trustworthy storm damage restoration company.

An immediate restoration response reduces the extent of damage done to a property. Since roof damage is likely to be accompanied by water damage—a gaping hole is a recipe for moisture and storm water to make itself at home—a quick emergency response reduces the risk for internal and structural water damage and microbial growth.

When contacted, storm restoration experts will analyze the level of damage and make a judgment regarding how to begin. Professionals' main priority is to secure property before cleanup, repair, and restoration. Once a property's debris is removed from the exterior and roof repair is completed, experts move to drying and the internal cleanup of furniture, carpets, clothes, and other items. 

The Drying Process of SERVPRO of East Memphis

Oozing groundwater, especially in places prone to flooding, could cause damage, especially if no flood pump has been previously installed. SERVPRO of East Memphis has a thorough drying process.

First, our team sets up industrial-strength drying equipment such as air movers and HEPA filtered dehumidifiers. Special care is taken to thoroughly dry the area around the original leak or cavity.

If water has seeped to the surrounding areas, special drying equipment is used. It can take 3-5 days for traditional drying. However, hard-to-dry materials, such as wood floors and crawlspaces, can make the process longer.

After the property is dry, the restoration of any damaged materials can start. Restoration is the most time-consuming part, but is very important and the bulk of returning the property to its preloss condition. We strive to make a property look, “Like it never even happened.”

For additional information regarding storm damage, visit our service page or blog. We are available 24 hours for emergency response. Call us at (407) 985-3200.

Fire Prevention: Protect Your Home and Family

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

Fire prevention can save your home and your life.

You protect your family by locking doors at night, monitoring who they spend time with and where they go. But do you consider fire prevention and preparedness tips?

As a homeowner, the thought of a fire breaking out in your house is a nightmare scenario. It puts your family’s safety at risk, and you could lose many possessions including your home itself. Avoid this frightful scenario and potentially save lives by reducing the risk of fire.

Maintain Smoke Alarms

All homes should have smoke alarms to alert you to fire danger. One or two alarm devices are not enough if you have multiple levels or a larger property. Your home should have a working smoke alarm in every bedroom and an additional alarm per floor. Maintain your smoke alarms to ensure they are effective in the unfortunate incident of a fire.

• Test your smoke alarm once per month by pressing their tester button.
• Change the batteries in your smoke alarm at least once per year.
• Never disconnect your smoke alarm.

Practice an Evacuation Plan

It is a wise idea to explain rules for safely exiting the home. Putting together a simple to understand plan for all family members is an easy way to make sure you and your family are on the same page in the event of a fire emergency.

Something as simple as identifying a meeting location outside, explaining how to open tricky windows, or showing how to remove cut window screens is a great start for teaching young children safe fire evacuation. Teaching administration of tools like the fire extinguisher and its location can prevent small kitchen fires from forming catastrophes.

Keep an Eye on the Dryer

Of major appliances, the dryer is perhaps the most significant potential culprit for starting a fire apart from countertop ovens and griddles. Check the filter and remove lint buildup after every load. Doing this also helps dry time, so it’s a win-win! We also recommend inspecting the outside vent and the hose leading from the dryer to the vent for proper ventilation. There are many YouTube tutorials that explain the ins and outs of dryers and their filters—those videos may be useful for extra, seasonal, deep cleanings.

Inspect Outlets

Being aware of electrical problems is an important fire precaution. Never overload your outlets. Also, be mindful when you use power strips, especially with computers and TVs. If an outlet looks dingy, it could be blown which indicates hidden problems. Outlet inspection is especially necessary for rental apartments or townhomes. Take precaution and call a professional electrician or property maintenance for help. We do not recommend fixing electrical problems. This is not a DIY project. 

Be Careful When You Cook

Because there are many silent heat sources in a kitchen, fire prevention is most likely and therefore most important here. Make sure your oven is clean and functioning correctly. If the oven emits an unusual amount of heat when closed and cooking, there may be problems with the seal or heating mechanism. It does not hurt to have a professional look at the appliance to ensure the temperature regulation mechanisms are working properly.

If all is functioning, it is wise to use the self-clean setting when your oven looks particularly grimey. This will heat the inside of the oven to a high temperature, burning stuck-on residue. When the self-cleaning is done, the food particles inside will be ash and can be easily wiped out. This is a simple and effective way to clean an oven. However, do not leave your oven unattended while this process is happening.

In fact, never leave any kitchen appliance unattended, especially food on the stove. A good rule of thumb is to store items off and away from the stove—you may not know when a child messes with the dials or an adult forgetfully leaves a burner on. In this age, stoves have smart locks that prevent accidental dial clicks. Regardless, putting items away ASAP as opposed to leaving them on the stove is a good, safe practice.

You can have peace of mind when you follow these fire prevention guidelines. We, at SERVPRO, want you to help prepare you. Still, accidents happen. In the event of an unfortunate situation, we offer fire damage services like Fire & Smoke Restoration, soot and odor removal and contents cleaning. If you have fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Ovideo / Winter Springs East at (407) 542-0000.

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

Atlantic hurricane season runs roughly from June 1 thru November 30 each year, with September holding the spot for the peak hurricane month. While, technically, hurricanes can wreak havoc any time of the year, this is the time to be on your guard the most. With that said, there are several ways to prepare for these storms during the off-season so you are not caught unawares.

Stock Up on Essentials

You'll want to prepare for the loss of electricity and the ability to cook by stocking up on water, bread, non-perishables, and items you can eat without heating. Also, make sure you have:

• Extra batteries for flashlights or headlamps,
• Portable chargers and cables for cell phones,
• Candles with matches. 

Check Your Insurance

If you live in a hurricane-prone region, make sure your insurance covers flooding and other expenses you may incur because of an Orlando hurricane.  

Make a Video of Your Home

If your home is damaged from hurricane winds and water, a home inventory video will help prove the pre-storm state of your home and make insurance claims processing easier. It would also be beneficial to make electronic versions of important documents related to your home and your personal information in case the originals are destroyed in the storm. Include digital files of documents such as your:

• Birth certificate
• Driver's license
• Home's deed
• Social security card

Protect Your Property

Install hurricane shutters or plywood of at least 3/4 inches in thickness. You may need to install hurricane clips to secure the roof of your home to the walls. This is important in areas that may receive a direct hit, and install foot and head bolts on all doors.

Make an Evacuation Plan

When it is time to evacuate, go. Make a plan for where you and your family will stay at least 50 miles from your Orlando home. If you can, pre-pack a bag before the threat of an Atlantic hurricane is severe. Load it with clothes, blankets, food, water, electronics, and important papers or photos.

Use These Tips

Don't Take Risks. Ultimately, people are more important than things. People hurt in hurricane weather evacuate late or stay in their homes altogether. Be wise and get out early. Prepare in order to mitigate panic and this kind of risky behavior. 

We Help with Hurricane Recovery

We live and work in this community; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated cleaning, damage restoration, and construction business, SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is a proud and active member of this community and is ready to respond to your Orlando home emergency 24/7/365. Call us today at (407) 542-0000.

Storm Restoration Experts Know How to Dry Your Property

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

For additional information regarding storm damage, visit our service page or blog. We are available 24 hours for emergency response. Call us today.

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East are Leaders in the Storm Restoration Industry for a Reason

Harsh weather conditions like flooding, wind, and storms cause devastating damage to homes and businesses. Property damage due to storm damage and flood water overwhelms many with concerns for personal safety and properties' security.

When this form of damage occurs to your home or business, the first step is to find safety, then contact a trustworthy storm damage restoration company.

An immediate restoration response reduces the extent of damage done to a property. Since roof damage is likely to be accompanied by water damage—a gaping hole is a recipe for moisture and storm water to make itself at home—a quick emergency response reduces the risk for internal and structural water damage and microbial growth.

When contacted, storm restoration experts will analyze the level of damage and make a judgment regarding how to begin. Professionals' main priority is to secure property before cleanup, repair, and restoration. Once a property's debris is removed from the exterior and roof repair is completed, experts move to drying and the internal cleanup of furniture, carpets, clothes, and other items. 

The Drying Process of SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East

Oozing groundwater, especially in places prone to flooding, could cause damage, especially if no flood pump has been previously installed. SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East has a thorough drying process.

First, our team sets up industrial-strength drying equipment such as air movers and HEPA filtered dehumidifiers. Special care is taken to thoroughly dry the area around the original leak or cavity.

If water has seeped to the surrounding areas, special drying equipment is used. It can take 3-5 days for traditional drying. However, hard-to-dry materials, such as wood floors and crawlspaces, can make the process longer.

After the property is dry, the restoration of any damaged materials can start. Restoration is the most time-consuming part, but is very important and the bulk of returning the property to its preloss condition. We strive to make a property look, “Like it never even happened.”

For additional information regarding storm damage, visit our service page or blog. We are available 24 hours for emergency response. Call us at (407) 542-0000.

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East Introduces Employee Volunteer Time Off

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

In support of our core values and a healthy work-life balance, SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East rolled out a Volunteer Time Off.

Introducing Volunteer Time Off

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is uniquely positioned to help people during and after disasters with our immediate response to fire, water, storm, and smoke damage. Our company culture of helping others is not just confined to the workplace, but extended into our daily lives.

Healthy Work-Life Balance

In support of our core values and a healthy work-life balance, SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East rolled out a Volunteer Time Off (VTO) policy that allows all full-time employees to take up to 16 hours of paid leave to complete volunteer work of their choosing each year.

Employees are already enthusiastically using this time in a way that supports their personal values. This policy gives employees a greater capacity to donate time and energy to causes near to their hearts and have a direct impact on their communities.

The goal is to aid local organizations in a tangible way while fostering stronger, more meaningful community connections in all six SERVPRO Team Nicholson locations. This includes Clarksville and Memphis in Tennessee; St. Pete, Orlando, and Tampa in Florida; and Fort Worth in Texas.

With about 160 full-time employees in six locations across three states, Tennessee, Texas, and Florida, if each eligible worker uses their 16 hours of VTO each year, SERVPRO Team Nicholson will contribute around 2,500 work hours to local charities.

Does My Carpet Need to Be Replaced? Professional Water Extraction and Cleaning

4/17/2022 (Permalink)

Professional Water Extraction and Cleaning

If a pipe breaks, a tub overflows, or dishwasher leaks water can spread quickly throughout your home. Moisture from one of these instances can soak into the carpet, damaging the porous fibers.

What does water do to a carpet?

If the water saturates the carpet, padding will disintegrate, and glues will weaken, causing the backing to peel away from the fibers. The moisture also causes microbes to develop on the surface of the subfloor. Water will ruin the whole carpet if left too long, so how long is too long? How would a person know if a carpet is salvageable or not?

The answer depends on a few factors. A professional restoration company will examine the cause of water damage and determine if the water is Category 1, 2, or 3. These categories describe the levels of toxicity of the water. Flood water and sewage water are seen as unsafe and are categorized differently than tap water overflowing from a sink or bathtub.

A professional will also lift the different layers for cleaning and drying. The carpet padding will likely be thrown out, no matter how long it’s been sitting, because it is relatively inexpensive to replace. This saves a lot of time, effort, and money cleaning a potential breeding ground for microbial growth. 

In general, many carpets can be restored by technicians without needing replacement—even when water seeps deep into the fibers. If the water type and severity of damage poses a health risk, though, a professional will know to rip out the carpet and replace it.

Water Extraction

After technicians inspect the danger and its source, lift layers, and remove pieces, they will extract water from the carpet fibers using specialized equipment. This equipment pulls the water up through a vacuum and sends it to a tank. Heavy-duty weighted extraction tools will be used for highly saturated carpets. Weighted extraction tools use the operator's weight to compress the carpet, allowing more moisture to be extracted.

Drying

After water extraction, a professional will set up drying equipment. Air movers—SERVPRO’s name for industrial, high-powered, blower fans—push air in a circular motion speeding up the evaporation process. Dehumidifiers are simultaneously set up to pull moisture out of the environment and lower the property’s relative humidity.

Finally, a professional will disinfect the carpet. For additional information, call our office today at (407) 542-0000!

The 3 Types of Smart Smoke Detectors

4/17/2022 (Permalink)

Although classic smoke detectors haven't changed much over the past few decades, they have seen a few minor upgrades.

The 3 Types of Smart Smoke Detectors

Wait…there’s more than one type of smoke detector? Yes! That old smoke detector you grew up with is outdated. Although classic smoke detectors haven't changed much over the past few decades, they have seen a few minor upgrades.

Today's homeowner often opts for smart devices for added convenience. Perhaps it's time to consider adding your smoke alarm to the list of smart devices for your home. Take a look at three primary smart smoke detector options before choosing to upgrade:

1. Smart Battery

This is the most basic type of fire safety smart device available. Smart batteries have a short list of responsibilities, only notifying you, via push notifications, when your alarm goes off or when the batteries are about to expire. Batteries typically last for about five years, so you likely won't be receiving that type of alert all too often.

2. Smart Smoke Detector

The classic smart smoke alarm is a natural step up from the smart batteries. The primary difference between these alarms and classic detectors is that smart detectors connect to your internet. This allows you to receive notifications when the batteries are low or when the alarm goes off. This device also gives you the capability to silence incoming alarms from your mobile device.

3. Listener

If you're reluctant to replace your entire alarm, you can always opt for a listening device. These gadgets are intended to listen for alarms and alert you when one goes off. They're ideal if you have several alarms in your house and only want to install one device per floor, as opposed to replacing the smoke detectors in every room.

Replacing your smoke alarm with a smart device can help you stay vigilant. You can have the added ease of being able to deactivate alarms using your smartphone, and you won't have to put up with annoying low battery chirps. Contact fire remediation experts, like the local fire department, before you attempt to tamper with the alarms in your home.

Does My Carpet Need to Be Replaced? Professional Water Extraction and Cleaning

4/16/2022 (Permalink)

Professional Water Extraction and Cleaning

If a pipe breaks, a tub overflows, or dishwasher leaks water can spread quickly throughout your home. Moisture from one of these instances can soak into the carpet, damaging the porous fibers.

What does water do to a carpet?

If the water saturates the carpet, padding will disintegrate, and glues will weaken, causing the backing to peel away from the fibers. The moisture also causes microbes to develop on the surface of the subfloor. Water will ruin the whole carpet if left too long, so how long is too long? How would a person know if a carpet is salvageable or not?

The answer depends on a few factors. A professional restoration company will examine the cause of water damage and determine if the water is Category 1, 2, or 3. These categories describe the levels of toxicity of the water. Flood water and sewage water are seen as unsafe and are categorized differently than tap water overflowing from a sink or bathtub.

A professional will also lift the different layers for cleaning and drying. The carpet padding will likely be thrown out, no matter how long it’s been sitting, because it is relatively inexpensive to replace. This saves a lot of time, effort, and money cleaning a potential breeding ground for microbial growth. 

In general, many carpets can be restored by technicians without needing replacement—even when water seeps deep into the fibers. If the water type and severity of damage poses a health risk, though, a professional will know to rip out the carpet and replace it.

Water Extraction

After technicians inspect the danger and its source, lift layers, and remove pieces, they will extract water from the carpet fibers using specialized equipment. This equipment pulls the water up through a vacuum and sends it to a tank. Heavy-duty weighted extraction tools will be used for highly saturated carpets. Weighted extraction tools use the operator's weight to compress the carpet, allowing more moisture to be extracted.

Drying

After water extraction, a professional will set up drying equipment. Air movers—SERVPRO’s name for industrial, high-powered, blower fans—push air in a circular motion speeding up the evaporation process. Dehumidifiers are simultaneously set up to pull moisture out of the environment and lower the property’s relative humidity.

Finally, a professional will disinfect the carpet. For additional information, call our office today at (407) 542-0000!

How to Reduce Pet Stress During a Storm: Evacuation Plan

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these simple measures to reduce your pet’s stress.

Plan For Your Pets

Inclement weather or fires can happen with or without notice. Creating an emergency plan can help prevent damage to your home and belongings and protect you and your loved ones - including pets! When putting a plan together, it’s important to plan for their needs as well. 

Make an Evacuation Plan

Remember, if you must evacuate due to an emergency, the area is likely not suitable for your pets either. Your evacuation plan should consider where your pets will be taken, if not kept with you, and how best to transport them. Make a list ahead of time of pet friendly hotels or friends’ houses along your evacuation route and near your final destination. Know that some hotels and shelters do not accept animals. 

You also might want to build an emergency travel kit for your animals. This will save time and worry when you must evacuate. 

Items to include in your pet's emergency kit:

• A completed Emergency Pet Passport containing important information like your pets’ veterinarian contact info, medical needs, license/chip info, photos, etc.
• Leash, harness, and carrier with blanket to transport animals
• A few portions of a suitable non-perishable food, water bowl, bottled water, and can opener
• Cat litter and pan or bags for excrement
• Medications
• Toys

Don’t Have to Evacuate? 

If evacuation is not necessary, there are still some things you can do to reduce your pet’s stress in an uncomfortable situation like a thunderstorm.

Pet Stress Symptoms

Pets may exhibit signs of stress and anxiety that can be alleviated by simple measures. Some of these symptoms include whimpering, hiding, pacing, or shivering. These symptoms may be caused by a variety of factors including pets’ greater sensitivity to sounds and air pressure.

As stress increases, symptoms may become more severe. Follow these simple measures to reduce your pet’s stress:

• Remain calm as an owner
• Create a comforting space for them in a smaller room like a closet or under a blanket
• Close blinds and curtains
• Keep them in their normal routine, if possible

Read more storm and pet related articles here.

How to Prepare a Business for Storms

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Give us a call at (407) 542-0000 for 24-hour emergency service. Our commercial loss team is standing by to return your business to preloss condition.

3 Ways to Prepare for Storms

While disaster preparedness is not everyone's favorite activity, it can be the difference between a company surviving a storm and one that does not. When a hurricane strikes a small company, as many as 40 percent of these businesses never reopen. So a good plan is critical. Read further for our four top tips to prepare your company.

1. Buy Insurance. Have the right policy in effect when a storm strikes. Claims payments can replace lost inventory and damaged equipment that is vital to your success. Structuring a policy that makes sense for your company may take a time investment on the front end, but will save valuable time, money and energy given a claim-qualifying event. Business interruption insurance covers some expenses if the damage is severe enough to suspend normal workplace operations. 
2. Fortify the Building's Exterior. As common sense tells us, a sturdy building will prevail against high winds—like a hurricane or tornado—longer than a weaker builder. A fortified roof system, durable siding, and storm windows will have a better chance of keeping water out and holding up in strong winds.
3. Make a Disaster Preparedness Checklist. This document will include all the information needed in a storm: important contacts of emergency services in the area, the location of critical equipment, shutoff valves, and emergency supplies, and the phone number of a local storm remediation team for assistance in the recovery. SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East offers this information in the form of an Emergency Ready Plans or ERPs. These plans are drawn up by one of our team members to make sure you have access to our emergency services and other important information at a moment's notice.

It's a good idea to consult with experts and bring in professionals to coach employees on what actions to take and not to take in times of stress. Organizations such as FEMA have helpful resources to help with your efforts. 

About SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East

We specialize in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a storm, water, or fire event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Give us a call at (407) 542-0000 for 24-hour emergency service. Our commercial loss team is standing by to return your business to preloss condition.

Protect Your Home Against Wind Damage

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

When storms hit anywhere in the United States, our SERVPRO team can scale our resources to handle even the largest storm or flooding disaster.

Wind Damage from Different Types of Storms

While thunderstorms are the most common source of wind and storm damage, winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are more severe and may be more costly. Still, thunderstorms are responsible for a lot of damage, such as lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding. Either way, billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year. While understanding the nature of wind damage can’t stop them from happening, it can help you limit the amount of damage to your property and save on restoration and repair costs.

What You Need to Know

Flying Debris is a Damage Risk

Flying debris can cause more damage than strong winds themselves. Damage can result from plants or other unsecured structures and objects. If a storm is approaching your area, make sure any potential debris in your homes such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans are either secured or brought inside. Bonus tip: For severe weather, secure your doors and windows, too.

A Well-Designed Roofing System Does Wonders

Apply roof deck, shingles, or membrane over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the structure in a strong wind. Roofing material should latch to the deck.

The construction phase of building a structure is the most influential piece in reducing damage caused by storms. Loosely connected shingles will lift from the deck, so fasten that siding down. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger storm-resistant structure.

Monitor and Maintain Your Trees.

Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Maintain your trees by removing dead limbs. In addition, remove the entire tree if it is dead. Healthy trees should have strong enough roots to withstand fairly strong winds, but dead trees will not.

Mitigating Damage After a Storm

What happens after the storm? 

First, close any openings as soon as possible. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common source of water damage in these situations. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that cuts to size and nail it over the opening. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of an emergency close-up, if needed, so contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

If the damage is too much to handle on your own, contact a restoration professional as soon as you can to help limit and repair damage and respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Faster Response

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quickly to your area with the right resources. This is extremely important because a fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Resources to Scale Up for Large Disasters

When storms hit anywhere in the United States, our SERVPRO team can scale our resources to handle even the largest storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1900 franchises across the country as well as our elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Do You Have an Emergency Kit for Severe Weather?

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Severe weather is unpredictable and safety is important, no matter the season! Be prepared, following these readiness tips to guide you, no matter what type of severe weather you may encounter.

Have a Weather Radio

Weather radios are the most reliable way to receive notifications of severe weather in your area in an emergency. Although cell phones, weather apps, social media, and wireless emergency alerts (WEA’s) are what the majority of us depend on for information, they can be interrupted during severe weather. Be sure to properly program your weather radio so you only receive the alerts you want for your county.

Keep an Emergency Supply Kit

An emergency kit can be a lifesaver. Most emergency management agencies recommend supplies for up to three days. The following is a list you can use as a guideline for mitigating disaster effects:

Personal Items:

• Water – 1 gallon per person per day
• Non-perishable food
• A simple, manual can opener
• Battery or crank operated radio—preferably a weather radio
• Battery or crank operated flashlight
• Extra batteries and matches or lighter in a waterproof case
• First Aid kit with whistle to signal help
• Clothing, blankets, hygiene items & dust masks
• Important documents. (Copy of insurance policy, bank account info, identification, etc.)
• Cash

Repair Items:

• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags, and duct tape for leaks
• Wrench or other tools to shut off utilities
• Fire extinguisher

Make a family plan

Make sure all members in the household are aware of where they are to go in the event of severe weather. If for some reason the family is separated in the event of a severe storm, have a meeting place established to aid in finding each other amidst the devastation.

Highly Trained with Resources to Handle Storms

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East specializes in severe weather restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. We can also scale our resources to handle a larger storm or flooding disaster. 

Locally Owned & Operated = Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quicker with the right resources. This is extremely important because a fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East today! We are here to help.

How to Remove Odors from Your Oviedo Home

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East Removes Odors from Your Home

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East Removes Odors from Your Home

Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition, and mold can cause lingering odors in your home or business. A simple surface clean doesn't permanently remove offensive odors left by smoke, mold, and other sources. However, with technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East provides specialized services that can eliminate those foul smells. 

Our professionals don't cover up lingering odors with a fragrance. We seek out the odor's source.

Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO's proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will be cleaned and deodorized professionally. These items can include:

• furniture
• draperies and upholstery
• electronics
• art
• flooring, walls, ceilings
• HVAC air ducts & more

Along with our proprietary line of cleaning products, we use various techniques and equipment that are capable of penetrating surfaces to thoroughly neutralize unpleasant odors. 

Tools We Use:

1. Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke, and more without chemicals. While the room is being treated, a person should not occupy the space. However, the generator works quickly.
2. Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main advantage is that the treated room can be occupied during the deodorization process, though it does work more slowly. It's used to treat fire, smoke, biohazard jobs, water damage, crime scene situations, and animal odors. 
3. Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through a HEPA filtration mechanism to remove airborne particles, helping clean the air and remove odors.

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is here for you 24/7, 7 days a week at (901) 382-0900.

Why Orlando Fabrication Plant Calls SERVPRO to Extract Water

3/13/2022 (Permalink)

we are proud to help businesses in this community with commercial water removal methods continue serving the public.

Flood water and storm damage events at commercial properties often involve numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we are dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East quickly assesses each unique situation and isolates the damaged area for cleanup. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility and make it, “Like it never even happened.”

Unique Challenges of Restoring Commercial Property

Our professionals at SERVPRO are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. 

Why Orlando Fabrication Plant Calls SERVPRO to Extract Water

Once a factory or other assembly plant sustains water loss, drying the area to protect employee health and safety, machinery, and productivity is a priority. Drains are a simple solution to water removal or rerouting, but they can only do so much when massive amounts of water are present in multiple areas. For instance, overhead water sources can ruin machines and other equipment by forming pools of water in the depressions of equipment.

Water Extraction

Removing the water from where it would otherwise remain trapped prevents corrosion of metal and keeps microbial infestations from developing. When your equipment retains water, we suction it out with specialty tools like water and other material extractors, helping ensure that employees can continue their jobs with little interruption from us. Then, if the machinery's maintenance instructions call for it, we will even wipe machines with oil to prevent rust and protect equipment from possible problems. 

SERVPRO Equipment Enhances Air Quality

Air movers help us keep moisture from condensing on surfaces and direct water vapor toward desiccation machines. These machines draw moisture from the air and release dry, filtered air back into the area we are treating. This cycle cleans and dries the air.

Using our various machines and tools, we protect your equipment and building from harm. At SERVPRO, we are proud to help businesses in this community with commercial water removal methods continue serving the public. We want to ensure businesses stay afloat, operating, and contributing to the local economy; part of the way we do that is by getting involved to mitigate a storm or water disaster as soon as we can. Call us today to schedule a free estimate, (407) 542-0000. We are also available 24 hours for emergency service.

When was the Last Time Your Air Ducts Were Cleaned?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Air Ducts and Indoor Air Quality 

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in low indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your Orlando home or business.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating the following:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used in homes for heating or cooling is wasted. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten your system's life. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use.

When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn't have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness.

Why HVAC and Air Duct Cleaning?

In addition to normal accumulations of dust and dirt found in all homes with air ducts, several other factors can increase the need for regular HVAC system cleaning:

• Pets
• Occupants with allergies or asthma
• Cigarette or cigar smoke
• Water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
• Home renovation or remodeling projects

Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers and young children, and the elderly, tend to be more susceptible to the types of low indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East professionals routinely inspects the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment, save money on repairs, and give you cleaner air to breathe. For additional information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call us today, at (407) 542-0000.

SERVPRO Removes Pet Odors

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t Live a Life Full of Unpleasant Smells.

Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition, or mold can cause lingering odors in your home or business. A simple surface clean doesn’t necessarily get rid of these smells. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by smoke, mold, or other sources. Our professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the odor's sources.

Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO’s proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more. Our proprietary line of cleaning products, SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East, uses various techniques and equipment to treat odors.

These techniques are capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

Some of Our Tools to Neutralize Odors

Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke, and more without chemicals. Though the room being treated cannot be occupied while in use, the generator works quickly to clean, sanitize and remove offensive odors. 

Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main benefit is that the room being treated can be occupied during the deodorization process, though it does work slower. The Hydroxyl Generator can be used to treat fire and smoke and biohazard jobs, water damage, crime scene situations, and animal odors. 

Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through HEPA filtration to remove airborne particles from the air. This helps clean the air and remove odors.

Whether you are a building manager who needs an apartment cleaned for the next tenant or a homeowner who wants to get your home ready for sale, getting rid of offensive odors is a high priority.

Fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is here to help make it, “Like it never even happened.” 

Why is My Smoke Alarm Beeping?

2/20/2022 (Permalink)

In addition to potentially causing significant fire damage, flames and smoke can endanger the lives of everyone inside your home. A properly functioning fire alarm can alert you to danger and help save lives. For this reason, every household should have this lifesaving device.

Sometimes, however, a smoke detector may act sporadically, chirping loudly or going off despite the absence of smoke. Often, there is a simple explanation for this erratic and—let’s be real, annoying!—behavior.

Why Is My Smoke Alarm So Annoying?

1. Weak Battery

Batteries have a limited lifespan. A chirping alarm may indicate that your device needs a new battery.

2. Improperly Installed Battery

A loose battery or terminal obstruction may cause your fire alarm to chirp intermittently. Use the self-check button on your smoke alarm to ensure the battery works after installation.

3. Dirty Sensing Chamber

Dust and dirt can sometimes obstruct the sensing chamber, resulting in a false alert. To help prevent this problem, you should routinely wipe your detectors with a dusting cloth.

4. Interference From Steam

Steam can also interfere with your detector’s sensing capability. This may be a particularly challenging problem for units located near bathrooms. To help reduce the likelihood of an inadvertent alert, close the bathroom door while showering and turn on the fan.

5. Interrupted Power Supply

An interrupted power supply may also cause erroneous beeping. You should examine each detector’s wiring for loose connections. If you notice lights dimming spontaneously, especially when an appliance is in use, contact a licensed electrician to help you inspect your home’s wiring.

6. End of Lifespan

Did you know your smoke detector can essentially expire? The average lifespan for most smoke detectors is 8 – 10 years. After this period, the unit’s sensing capacity may diminish, reducing its effectiveness. If an older device is chirping, it may be time to replace it with a new one.

A fire alarm may not spare your home from a destructive fire or smoke damage, but this valuable safety device may one day save your life. To help safeguard your well-being, you should promptly investigate a chirping detector and replace batteries, or the entire unit, as needed.

Call SERVPRO of Oviedo/Winter Springs East if you have smoke or fire damage, at (407) 542-0000. We proudly serve Oviedo, FL, Chuluota, FL, Winter Springs, FL, Geneva, FL,  and surrounding areas.

Sewage Backup Causes and What You Can Do

2/20/2022 (Permalink)

Homeowners and business owners in Oviedo, FL, can often contend with slow drains, poor water pressure, or blocked pipes. If these problems sound familiar, you've probably used household solutions to overcome them. For more serious concerns, like a backed-up sewer or significant blockage in your plumbing lines, you may need more professional help with sewage cleaning.

Common Causes of Plumbing Issues

Even small plumbing problems can frustrate you, so it is helpful to know how these start. Once you know the root of the concern, you can develop a game plan to solve it. Here are a few:

• Buildup in pipes from sediment, human waste, hair, and food, causing a clogged pipe. 
• Faulty appliances
• Cold weather freezing pipes, causing them to burst

Overflowing Toilets

You can face a toilet overflow at home due to a few causes. Sometimes, you may even see this happen when you turn on the water in the shower. This indicates blockage somewhere between the toilet and the sewer. Water will back up in the waste lines and exit the first place it can: the toilet. Repairing this could be as simple as using a plunger. If that is ineffective, you could try using a sewer snake tool. You might have to call a plumber if the job gets too big. If you don't resolve this overflow, you could face significant damage and should proceed to hire a professional sewer cleaning crew. 

If your Sewage System Backs Up

If the main sewer line into your home or business backs up, you'll notice it pretty quickly because of the foul odor. Luckily, if the blockage is under the street and not on your property, your local water and sewer company should take care of it. 

If sewage water enters your home, we recommend treating the situation as an emergency and immediately calling a sewage cleanup company, like SERVPRO of Oviedo/Winter Springs East. Sewage water is considered Category 3 water, which can cause health effects. Our team has the protection and knowledge to safely clean up and restore your home or business after Category 3 water damage. We respond immediately, giving you peace of mind and reducing your stress during a sewage overflow. 

The prospect of a sewage backup can be scary. Pay attention to common plumbing issues and how you can spot and repair them. If you experience a water leak emergency, call SERVPRO of Oviedo/Winter Springs East. We are here to help 24/7! 

Professionals Who Clean Up Water Damage

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Have water damage? Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East.

It's possible to lose everything as a result of water damage, so it's essential to understand what needs to be done if your home or business has water-related damage. These steps will keep you safe and help you prepare for professional technicians to start the water cleanup process in your flooded property.

Unknown Hazards

Water damage’s source is often hard to pinpoint once the water has receded. It can occur for many reasons, but it usually results from a natural flood, a supply line break, or a pipe break. And although it may not be visible to the naked eye, hidden water can cause hidden problems. Moisture can collect just about anywhere—behind walls, within drywall, in furniture, and other porous materials.

Wildlife can also take up residence in a recently flooded area—talk about an unwanted squatter! It's not unusual for critters ranging from rodents to reptiles to be present in a flood situation. Be prepared by wearing boots and other protective clothing. It's also not a bad idea to wear rubber gloves and a vapor respirator if you have one.

Contaminated liquids can pose a threat to your safety, too. This is a concern with a supply line break and a pipe break and is why you must exercise extreme caution when entering an area that has been recently flooded.

Safety Measures

If you must enter an area that has been recently flooded, make sure that the electricity has been turned off. Electric wires and outlets may still present some safety issues, making it possible to be electrocuted, so err on the side of caution to prevent injury. A restoration company makes mitigation a priority, especially when it comes to safety, and water cleanup is usually that priority in disaster situations.

Restoration Professionals

Cleaning up flood waters should not be a DIY project. A restoration company is qualified with knowledge and resources to make sure you’re not missing hidden damage. A professional will be prepared to determine what items in a flooded home are beyond salvaging and which are cleanable. Items like mattresses, box springs, particleboard, and pillows hold more moisture than other items and generally have to be thrown away. We recommend you record and itemize any lost items for insurance purposes. 

The Process

A professional restoration company comes into a flooded home or business with mitigation as a top priority. Through the use of specialized moisture detector meters, they search for hidden pockets of wetness behind deceptively dry surfaces and remove them. These pockets are then exposed and dried. Part of restoration includes dry-ice pressure blasting areas where moisture was present to prevent and/or eliminate microbial growth. Professional technicians also have tools that speed up the drying process to prevent more bacteria and mold growth.

Make Sure the Company is Certified

Make sure the restoration company that you hire is certified through a reputable organization. Anytime you have standing water in your home or standing water in your business for a prolonged amount of time, there will be damage. However, acting quickly and calling a professional company is the best approach for proper mitigation and restoration. If you have water damage and need assistance, SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is Here to Help®. Call (407) 542-0000 today.

The Importance of Fast Water Cleanup

2/13/2022 (Permalink)

For fast water cleanup at your commercial business, call a professional in the restoration industry like SERVPRO Oviedo / Winter Springs East

How Fast Should Water Damage be Cleaned Up?

You depend on your business to keep money flowing in, and you rely on the building where location keeps business going. However, when a pipe or supply line springs a leak, it throws a kink in your week. The time it takes for you to arrange pipe burst cleanup can make the difference between a simple and fast water cleanup or extensive and expensive water damage.

The First Few Minutes

Water damage begins with a variety of events, including:

• Pipe break
• Supply line leak
• Toilet overflow
• Adverse weather
• Foundation crack

If all you need is pipe burst cleanup or supply line repair, the first few minutes of water cleanup are crucial. If possible, turn off the source of water as quickly as possible.

The First Few Hours

The longer water sits, the more potential havoc it wreaks. Once exposed to humidity, walls can start to disintegrate, and items made of pressed wood—which often includes cheap flooring—can swell and warp. Water from burst pipes and supply lines can also damage furniture and other supplies in your workplace. 

The First Few Days

Damage that is not mitigated quickly will also become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria growth. Prolonged damage can interrupt your business’s daily operations, possibly harming your bottom line. To limit the extent of water damage to your business, call a professional in the restoration industry like SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East. SERVPRO’s highly trained professionals are equipped with knowledge, experience and all tools capable to restore your business to its preloss condition. We know the disruption that results from supply line leaks, overflowing toilets, adverse weather, foundation cracks, pipe breaks and other catastrophes. By calling our emergency team, available 24 hours per day, you may be able to turn a potentially massive setback into an easy and fast fix. For additional information regarding commercial restoration, call us at (407) 542-0000.

How to Protect My Business from Utility Room Fire or Electrical Fire?

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

A business is affected in a uniquely difficult way when the business suffers fire damage. The damage leads to loss, but it destroys the infrastructure for recovering that loss. For example, when a restaurant’s utility room or electrical system catches fire and burns a facility, the income the owners could have made to pay for that loss is uprooted, having a chilling effect on a commercial property. 

This highlights the importance of buying the right insurance.

In an effort against fire loss, most buildings have measures to protect the property from utility room fire or electrical fire loss. A fire sprinkler system is one of the strategies that play an essential role in fire suppression. 

A Sprinkler System’s Job

This system has sensors that detect a change in room temperature. If the temperature reaches a critical level, the alarm turns on, the valves open, and water jets are sprinkled in the rooms. The fire sprinkler system is the first line of defense against fire before the arrival of backup, like firefighters.

You’ll Need More Than a Sprinkler System

The fire sprinkler system alone may not curb utility room fire or electrical fire outbreak from spreading. If no secondary response team comes quickly to help the sprinkler system, the fire can easily consume the building. Calling 911 should be the first thing you do after exiting the building.

Did You Think About Water Damage?

After the fire, the reality of what transpired inside becomes clear. Apart from the fire damage, there is soot damage, water damage, and visible smoke damage. The fire hose pressure can destroy contents and walls, too.

This devastating scene can only be properly rectified by professionals who are familiar with commercial fire damage restoration.

Professionals Know What To Do

Hiring professionals for fire restoration gives peace of mind. Professional commercial fire damage services usually take a record of the items destroyed and remaining. SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East repairs and cleans content that can be salvaged. They wrap and store those items and appropriately dispose of the rest. They also find out where data backups could be salvaged, such as the computer hard drives. 

The soot damage, water damage, and smoke damage are some of the things that must be cleaned fastest to restore the interior. Soot damage is cleaned using a dry brush. Water is drained and vacuumed from the rooms. This drying prevents mold from growing. The smoke is pulled from upholstery and other areas that could have absorbed odor. After the main cleaning is done and our construction team has rebuilt any remaining damage, items that underwent repair are brought back. 

Your business will emerge triumphant over fire damage if you use professional fire restoration services like those of SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East.

Emergency READY Profile: How to Prepare Your Business for a Disaster

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

Download SERVPRO's ERP app today at https://ready.SERVPRO.com/Home/MobileApp.

Being a property manager or landlord isn't a 9 to 5 job. Mishaps don't care if you're on vacation or out of the office. Problems can arise 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Be prepared before disaster strikes. Deal with unforeseen circumstances by implementing our Emergency READY Profile (ERP), as many as 50% of businesses have to shut down after a disaster.

Being Prepared is FREE

Your company's ERP profile is FREE and can help you in the event of a disaster. We simply take down a few basic pieces of contact information and we are at your door in case of an emergency.

What Does an Emergency Ready Profile Look Like?

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
   
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
   
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
   
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
   
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
   
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
  Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Businesses that survive a disaster had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. ERP helps your business have a plan in place and helps keep you and your staff members informed on handling fire and water damage.

For additional information regarding SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile (ERP), visit http://ready.SERVPRO.com or call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East at (407) 542-0000.

Home Fires and Smoke Damage Aftermath

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Consists of More Than Flames

The damages from flames after a fire are not the only damages incurred. Flames can move throughout the home quickly, burning and ruining every item in their path, but once the flames have been extinguished, the home is left with soot and smoke damages, too. Smoke damage can completely devastate a home if not properly and swiftly addressed. In fact, smoke damage can occur in rooms where the flames were not even present.

With so much attention placed on the flames, people often overlook the dangers linked to smoke damage. The following are some of the most common issues of smoke damage after a home fire:

• Toxic air
• Smoke odor in upholstered furniture, drapery, clothing, carpets, and in the air
• Charring
• Warped plastic
• Warped wood
• Yellow stains on walls and ceilings
• Household textiles covered in soot

Salvaging items that have smoke damage is a complicated issue. A smoke damage expert will need to assess the home and the impacted items to determine what can be saved. In addition, smoke damage experts will tackle lingering smoke in less obvious places like crevices and cracks where particles may linger, since the smell can last for months following a fire.

Smoke Damage is as Dangerous as Fire Damage

During a fire, the materials that burn produce toxic smoke filled with microscopic particles known as soot. These tiny particles become charged from the extreme heat and migrate to cooler air found in other parts of the house, forming soot webs. Because this smoke is often scorching, it can cause additional damage by melting plastics, scorching fabrics, and textiles and spreading toxic gasses that will kill any living thing in its path. That's why smoke alarms throughout your home are critical to saving lives.

Don’t Grab, Just Go.

The Department of Homeland Security says, "In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can [...] turn into a major fire…Most deadly fires occur in the home when people are asleep. If you wake up to a fire, you won't have time to grab valuables because the fire spreads too quickly, and the smoke is too thick. There is only time to escape."

Call Us Today for a FREE Fire Damage Estimate

Restoring smoke and fire-damaged items costs less than replacing them. We love when we can restore your belongings, especially items with sentimental value. Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East at (407) 542-0000 for a free fire damage consultation. We have helped hundreds of families recover from house fire damages and our fire damage repair and restoration specialists have years of experience.

Is Your Business Prepared for a Fire?

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

A fire is every Oviedo, Fl business owner’s worst nightmare. Your insurance policy will ensure you can rebuild in the event of a fire. But what about protecting your most important asset: your own life and the lives of your employees? To avoid the unspeakable tragedy of losing those you employ in a fire, it’s good to have a fire escape plan. 

Tips for Your Business’ Emergency Fire Plan

1. Ensure your business has the proper number of smoke alarms. In newer homes, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires hard-wired, interconnected smoke alarms with battery backup on every building level, outside each work area, and inside each office. If your building is older and smoke alarms are not already in place, install them on every level and outside each work area at a minimum. Test your alarms once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
   
   
2. Teach employees what smoke alarms sound like and how to respond if they hear one. If your smoke alarm has a test feature, set aside a training in which you teach your employees the fire escape plan and include a smoke alarm test. If it does not have a test feature, there are videos online which provide demonstrations of what smoke alarms sound like.
   
   
3. Ensure everyone in the building knows of two ways to escape from every room. It’s also essential to establish a meeting spot outside the building. Depending on the size of the building, this may require a customized escape diagram.
   
   
4. Establish an emergency communications plan. As part of your building’s fire escape plan, make sure everyone knows who to contact in the event of an emergency and how.
   
   
5. Practice escaping from your building at least twice a year. This may seem excessive, but fire drills can save lives in the event of a real fire. 

Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East for additional information regarding commercial fire damage call (407) 542-0000. 

Does Your Oviedo Business Need Board-Up Services?

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

If your business was affected by storm or fire damage that results in an opening in your building, you might need emergency board-up services. Any opening in the structure needs to be boarded appropriately to protect the building from the weather and illegal entry. Your insurance policy also requires you to be proactive in protecting your home or business after any damage has occurred. Otherwise, the insurance company could account for any further/secondary damage to the structure as negligence.

Not every situation requires the most extensive board-up that the U.S Fire Administration has in their board-up procedure manual, such as after a fire where the entire home is destroyed and is considered a complete loss. While each emergency board up is different, SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is here to help.  

Let's take a look at how to properly board up a structure after the damage has caused an opening in the building.

How Much Storm Protection Does Your Business Need?

1. Openings in the basement, first floor doors, windows, and any entry point accessible from a porch, fire escape, or other potential climbing points require additional security measures. Openings should be barricaded with plywood, 2x4s, bolts, and nails.
2. Openings at least 10′ from ground level, which is not accessible from a porch, fire escape, roof, or other climbing points, can be secured with nails in each brace and every 12″ around the perimeter. The plywood should be fitted for these openings so that it rests snugly against the exterior frame, butting up to the siding on wood frame buildings and up to the brickwork on brick buildings. It may be necessary to remove the staff bead so that this fit can be flush and tight.

How to Board-Up a Commercial Building

1. Cut plywood to fit over the window and door openings, flush with the outside of the molding.
   Note: For buildings with a metal door and window frames, the alternative is to cut the plywood and 2x4s to fit the door frame inside buffed up against the band molding.
2. Cut the 2x4s to fit the horizontal dimension of the plywood. You will need two 2×4 exterior and two interior braces for each window and three sets for each door.
   Note: For buildings with metal doors and window frames, the 2x4s for the outside will be cut to the plywood dimensions, fitting inside the door frame, against the band molding. The 2x4s will be cut to the outside dimension of the door or window frame for the inside.
3. Next, pre-drill 3/8th inch holes in the plywood and the braces.
4. The holes will be placed approximately 1/3 of the brace's length from each outside edge of the door and window jam.
5. The two window braces will be placed 1/3 of the distance from the top and the bottom of the window.
6. The three-door braces will be placed; one in the center of the doorway and one half the center's distance to the top and the bottom of the doorway.
7. Place the plywood over the exterior opening and nail it to the frame.
   Note: For metal frames, place the plywood and braces inside the frame against the band molding.
8. Place the 2×4 braces over the interior and exterior of the door or window.
9. Place the large washer over the carriage bolt and place the bolt through the holes.
10. Place the washer and nut inside and tighten securely. Torque the nut so that it slightly compresses the interior 2×4.

Did you know SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East provides emergency board-up services? Let us mark a big task off of your to-do list when preparing for a storm. We understand the anxiety when it comes to managing a business during storm watches and warnings. We are here to help. Call us anytime at (407) 542-0000.

Fire Cleanup and Restoration After a Fire Incident

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Have commercial fire damage? Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East today.

What do fire cleanup crews do?

Fire cleanup and restoration crews enter the home after the fire has settled. Working fast, yet thoroughly and efficiently, they bear the smoke smell as they try to save and restore the family's home and belongings. The crew must be conversant with the various restoration methods to tackle fire damage and soot damage, and smoke damage.

These skilled individuals work on the burned home with a unified purpose; to do everything they can and restore as much household belongings as possible. The steps taken between the fire in business or fire in home incidents differ slightly with each fire restoration company. Nevertheless, these actions follow the same pattern. These standard steps are:

Step 1: Contact Emergency Services

Just like firefighters, established and reputable commercial fire damage restoration crews offer emergency services and can come to your help quickly when contacted. Such a service becomes essential when a fire in business or fire in home incidences occur in the middle of the night and disrupt the family's continued stay and comfort. Immediate emergency services also ensure no further commercial fire damage, smoke damage, or soot damage occurs.

Step 2: Assess and Inspect

The next step taken by fire cleanup crews involves assessing the degree of damage the property suffered. The team carefully inspects all smoke damage, fire damage, and soot damage, and air quality to get to the root of any smoke smell. As the walls and furniture often bear significant damage, they are carefully inspected too. This step helps commercial fire damage crews understand the full scope of the damage and develop a work plan for reinstatement. It also enables the owner to get an accurate quote and project timeline.

Step 3: Tarp and Seal

This is the onset of the actual restoration after a commercial fire damage incident. The fire cleanup crew's key motive at this stage is to prevent smoke damage or soot damage suffered from worsening. Consequently, any leaks from damaged water pipes are sealed to prevent water damage. A burned hole in the roof is also a very common fire damage incident and can be fixed easily by installing a tarp.

Step 4: Clean Up

After a fire in the home or a fire in the business incident, the next phase is cleaning up. The fire cleanup crew will do their best to clean away the soot dust and smoke and have the property look as normal as possible after a commercial fire damage incident. Any water damage restoration due to standing pools also begins here. The restoration crew works to rid your property of any smoke smell and other odors at this stage. Finally, during this step, the team will remove any items that have been damaged beyond repair.

Step 5: Repair and Renovate

At this point, actual restoration and repair of furniture and other installations damaged by the fire begin. Carpets are re-installed while walls are repainted, and wallpaper is put up again. The intention while repairing is to get rid of any signs of soot damage, smoke damage, and any fire damage to the property and have it looking as good as new with no smoke smell felt. The best commercial fire damage restoration crews go a step further and offer repair and renovation. This provides relief to owners as they can redesign their homes or belongings to have an entirely new look.

At the end of the process, fire victims are restored to their state before the fire in the home or a fire in the business incident and return to their everyday lives. This is enabled by fire cleanup crews who continually work quickly and efficiently to help victims move on from the calamity. Although their work does not entirely erase the fire incident, it enables the affected to move on. 

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East can help your residence if you have mold problems.

The perils covered by homeowners insurance policies vary depending on the insurer. Mold damage can be costly, and several insurance companies have restricted or eliminated coverage for this risk under standard policies. If you are concerned about fungus growth at a residence in Oviedo, FL, try to identify the problem's source and check your policy for mold coverage.

What Caused the Damage?

Restoration experts commonly refer to mold as secondary damage, as fungal growth typically results from direct water damage. Insurers may be more likely to cover mold that results from one of the following covered perils:

• Appliance leaks
• Broken or burst pipes
• Pipe leaks

Even if a policy does not cover the cost of fixing the problem, the resulting damage may be covered. Check your policy and contact an insurance agent or adjuster.

What Are the Limitations on Coverage?

Many homeowners insurance providers have cut out or limited the amount of coverage for fungus growth. An insurer may restrict coverage in several ways:

• Excluding mold damage
• Only covering testing or cleanup
• Refusing to cover properties with a history of mold

Read your policy carefully to determine whether there are any conditions under which mold is covered. If mold is not covered, you may want to add an endorsement.

Can You Buy Endorsements?

It may be possible for policyholders to pay for limited mold coverage. Ask your insurer whether any endorsements are available. This option may be costly, especially if your residence has a history of mold.

Standard homeowners policies may not cover fungus growth. Homeowners should determine the limitations of their coverage and decide whether to obtain additional mold insurance. Paying for remediation out of pocket can be very expensive. The best way to prevent mold growth is to mitigate water damage as quickly as possible by relying on a restoration company in Oviedo, FL.

Fire Damage Restoration Techniques in Orlando, FL

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

For professional dry cleaning after a fire, call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East at (407) 542-0000, 24/7. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster®.

Fire Damage Restoration: Dry Cleaning Methods

Once something burns at your property in Orlando, you have a possibility of structural issues. Fire damage cleanup can come in a variety of forms. Heat can burn flammable materials inside a structure, forcing removal and replacement of those materials. Smoke coming from the blaze can also cause soils, soot residues, and intense aromas to exist.

Luckily, our experienced and trained SERVPRO team knows that mitigating fire damage can include a variety of replacing, restoring, and cleaning techniques. Various kinds of fire residues can adhere to each surface in your home differently, and we can help with it all.

Cleaning Techniques

When our SERVPRO technicians work with hard surfaces, we can use water based-detergents and other wet cleaning methods. However, for porous surfaces, wet techniques could cause the soot to soak deeper into the material. Dry cleaning methods that use agitation can prove useful in these cases.

Light Agitation

SERVPRO conducts the dry cleaning agitation technique with softer tools such as dusters or brushes. Special vacuums are also useful when removing some soot residues and using compressed air to blow off the soot.

Medium Agitation

Residues that adhere to some of your contents and building surface materials could work better in medium agitation cleaning techniques. Dry sponges are an example of a medium agitation method, and they can be useful when removing soot residues from drywall. Dusting cloths or crumbling cleaners that work like a pencil eraser are also useful.

When mitigating smoke-related problems inside your home, SERVPRO has the necessary tools, techniques and knowledge. For professional assistance after a fire, call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East at (407) 542-0000, 24/7. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster®.

SERVPRO Takes Care of Your Oviedo Mold

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Call your Orlando professionals at SERVPRO if you have water damage or mold.

When you encounter mold growth in your home, there is no question it can be extremely problematic. It also can severely damage the resale value of your home. Luckily, there is a remediation process that can remove the mold for good. If you live in the Oviedo, FL area and are experiencing this, here are some essential steps to follow:

Thoroughly Locate All of It.

There is no point at all in removing just part of the spores in your home. If you miss even just a small amount, it will simply grow back and spread. This is why you need to check for it in every room in your house. They can grow in air conditioning ducts, under carpets, and even above ceiling tiles and above walls. Pay close attention to musty-smelling areas of your home as well. 

Get Your Supplies Together.

For the next step, it's essential to get all of your cleaning supplies together. Some individuals prefer bleach, but we recommend using a solution designed explicitly for fungus removal, such as Foster 40-80. Make sure to use sheets of heavy plastic and tape to seal the work area off. You will also need a face mask, gloves, a spray bottle, a scrub brush, and a rag. If the damage is extensive enough, you might also need to consider purchasing materials for installing a new wall, such as drywall supplies. 

Thoroughly Prepare the Work Area.

The keyword here is sealing because spores can quickly spread to undamaged parts of your home and cause the same problem all over again in another area. Utilize a lot of heavy plastic and duct tape, including taping them over any air conditioning units. 

Set Up a Negative Pressure Area in the Cleaning Area.

A negative pressure system will cause air to flow into an area but not out of the area. This is a good way to prevent spores from spreading, especially if there is a large amount of growth to deal with. One of the best ways to do this would be with a shop-vac. Tape the shop-vac with intake and exhaust hoses and extend the hose out the window. Duct tape will need to be used to seal an appropriate hole around the window. 

Consider Enlisting the Aid of an Oviedo, FL, Professional.

Many Florida professionals are located in the Oviedo, Winter Springs, and Orlando areas that specialize in combating this problem. Winter Springs and Orlando, in particular, have talented professionals who know how to stop microbial growth from occurring in a home. They deal with microbial growth daily, and they know that unless you are very versatile, you cannot deal with fungus or mildew on your own. An environmental hygienist can help you eliminate all of the mildew and other disgusting growth in your home. A Florida environmental hygienist is fully trained in all of these areas, so your best bet is to go with them. Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East today (407) 985-3200.

How can SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East Help with Hazardous Waste?

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East Helps with Hazardous Waste

Although SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is well-known for fire and water restoration, you may not know that we offer hazardous waste disposal. Our highly-trained professionals can help you or your business with biohazard, vandalism, and crime scene cleanup. We specialize in removing and cleaning common hazardous wastes such as bloodborne pathogens, sewage backups, illegal drugs, hoarding situations, crime scene residues, and more. We are trained to safely decontaminate these situations in accordance with OSHA and CDC regulations. Our sanitizing agents, antimicrobial treatments, thermal foggers, and deodorization agents help us make your property “Like it never even happened.” 

When you experience a biohazard concern or have hazardous waste on your property, leave the responsibility of hard cleanup to us. Bloodborne pathogens, bodily fluids, and other contaminated waste can put you at risk. Follow these steps after contamination. 

• Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East immediately at (407) 542-0000 for biohazard cleanup. 
• Stay out of infected areas. 
• Call first responders if the situation is life-threatening. 
• Treat all areas and/or bodily fluids as if they are contaminated. 
• Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage. 

Don’t wait to call us when you have a biohazard emergency. These situations can leave home and business owners feeling vulnerable, violated, and unsafe. SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is here for you 24/7, 7 days a week at (407) 542-0000.

Salvage Your Belongings After a Flood

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

Steps To Take To Salvage Your Belongings After A Flooded Basement

A basement flood can happen to anyone in Oviedo, FL, even if it has never happened before. An unusually strong rainstorm, a broken pipe, or a faulty sump pump can suddenly cause a waterlogged basement. A flooded basement is overwhelming, but there are steps that you can take to safely salvage your space as you wait for the professionals to arrive.

1. Consider Safety First

Large amounts of water in your basement can be dangerous. People are most commonly injured in a slip and fall accident or from an electrical hazard that they didn't realize was caused by the basement flood. If you're unsure about the risks that may be present, it's best to stay away and wait for the professionals to assess the situation. Have the number of a 24/7 emergency service handy that has been approved by your insurance coverage.

2. Pump Out the Basement

Following a significant weather event in Oviedo, FL, it may take a little bit of time for a professional to get to your home. Once the floodwaters recede from your yard, you may want to rent a pump to remove standing water from your basement. It will still be important to have a company come and help with the drying out and restoration process in order to avoid long-term problems.

3. Dry Out Items

Once you've been given the "all clear" to enter your basement, carefully remove items that you hope to salvage from the water. Prop cushions from chairs and couches on end to allow them to dry. Move books to dry, flat surfaces. Hang up carpets, clothes, and fabric covers.

Residual water in hard-to-reach places can cause structural damage, mold growth, or other long-term challenges for your home. Even in the event of a minor basement flood, it is important to contact a water damage restoration specialist to assess the area.

Should I Reconsider Buying a Home Mold Kit?

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

Things To Consider Before Buying A Home Mold Kit

If you suspect that your home has a mold problem, you may be considering a mold testing kit. While these kits might seem like an economical choice, the information they can provide is extremely limited, and you'll likely still need a professional inspection. Here are some things to think about before buying a home mold kit.

1. Home Kits Always Test Positive
If your DIY mold test indicates that there is mold in your home, you’re not alone: every home in Geneva, FL, has mold! Home testing kit results will always be positive, because mold spores are everywhere: outside, in homes and buildings, on surfaces, and in the air. The mere presence of mold is normal, and isn't always a cause for alarm.

2. DIY Mold Tests Leave Many Questions Unanswered
You may need to send your test kit results to a lab for analysis, which sometimes requires additional fees. Unfortunately, home mold testing kits often yield inaccurate and unreliable results, according to leading mold industry organizations. Even if the results are accurate, the analysis is missing a key component of mold investigations: a visual inspection. Without a visual inspection, DIY kits can't tell you what's causing the excessive mold, or the extent of mold damage to your home. Furthermore, you'll still need to find a way to remove the mold and make repairs.

3. A Professional Mold Inspection Offers a Complete Solution
If you’re concerned about mold in your home, your best bet is to contact a professional mold remediation company. These experts will inspect your home to determine the extent and location of any harmful mold, and to determine the cause of the problem. They can also remove the mold, repair any damage, and advise you as to how to prevent future mold issues.

While a home mold kit may be a starting point, only an environmental hygienist can accurately test for mold. For a full-service resolution, skip the mold testing kit and schedule a home inspection by a certified mold expert. Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East today!

3 Ways FEMA Can Save The Day

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage.

While the nation struggles to pick up the pieces after Hurricanes Ida and its aftereffects, many may wonder how they might recover from local storms. Although the average storm may not sweep across neighborhoods with the force to wipe out buildings, it can still bring a significant amount of flooding. Below are three ways the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can help during such difficult times.

1. Organized Support

When a catastrophic flood strikes, it affects everyday life. FEMA formulates a method to respond to the crisis effectively. Victims may check online to see whether their specific area will receive support. After the President of the United States declares a specified area a disaster, a person may apply for disaster assistance through a straight-forward system. FEMA can also work with the state(s) involved to form funding before an expected storm. 

2. Damage Inspection

Despite the vast differences in each situation, FEMA responds to disasters that prioritize victims first. Assistance is determined by comparing recorded essential losses and serious needs to the types of assistance available within FEMA programs and services. After registering, an inspector specializing in disasters generally visits within a week. From there, the agency can work with residents to determine the right assistance plan and begin their aid.

3. Covers Unmet Needs

If a victim has insurance, FEMA still recommends filing an insurance claim first. However, insurance may not cover all losses claimed, in which case FEMA assistance may cover those unmet needs. Connecting with as many programs as possible could help a person receive more aid faster, especially if the damage is severe or in case of an unexpected delay.

No matter the extent of the damage, any natural disaster is shocking, challenging and stressful. However, this is the point at which FEMA can step in to help you get your space – and subsequently, your life – back on solid ground.

4 Ways To Prepare Your Business Before a Storm

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Have storm damage? Call SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East today.

Minimize the Effects of a Storm on Your Business

During a storm, you can experience damage to your commercial building in Geneva, FL. Flood water, rain and wind can all cause problems for your property. Because of this, it is important to be prepared before a storm occurs. Here are four ways that you can help to prevent or minimize the effects of a storm on your business.

1. Inspect for Damage

If there is any existing damage to your building, it may get worse after a storm. Cracks in the exterior can allow rain inside the walls, resulting in water damage that you might not notice right away. Damaged roofs can contribute to leaks. These can allow mold to form and spread and may weaken the structure of the building as well.

2. Check Doors and Windows

In order to prevent flood water from entering the building, you should make sure that all doors and windows are properly sealed. Ensure that these have not been damaged and that they will prevent moisture from getting inside.

3. Examine the Exterior

You may be more concerned with the inside of your building, but don’t forget to inspect the outside of the property as well. If there are smaller objects outside, you may want to move them to a storage area to prevent them from being picked up by the wind. Make sure that gutters and drains are cleaned to keep water from backing up, and trim any tree branches located near windows.

4. Back Up Important Files and Data

Damage to the building is not the only way that a storm can affect your business. If you end up with a flooded building, your electronics and equipment can be damaged. If you do not back up important files on these devices, then you may lose them.

The best way to keep storms and flood water from damaging your building is to perform regular maintenance. This will ensure that your property is in good condition during an emergency. If you do have any damage, you can contact a cleanup and restoration service to perform necessary repairs.

Effective Ways To Get Rid of Mold in the Home

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Three Ways To Get Rid Of Mold

If you have visible mold in your home, it will need to be removed quickly and carefully. While hiring a mold remediation company is almost always the best way to safely remove house mold, here are some tips for removing minor mold from three of the most common household items and areas.

1. Fabrics

It can be devastating to find moldy fabrics in your home. In some cases, they may not be salvageable. However, if you catch mildew early enough, you can often remove it.

To do so, take the items outside and try brushing away as much of the mold as possible. Then wash them using the hottest temperature that's appropriate for the fabric. Heat can kill house mold spores.

If this does not work, soak the items in a mix of oxygen bleach and water for eight hours or more before washing.

2. Appliances

Any appliances that combine heat and moisture, such as your washing machine or dishwasher, need cleaning on a regular basis. You can use distilled white vinegar to wipe down your washer's interior and exterior surfaces.

You can also run it through your machine like you would detergent, using the machine's cleaning setting or, if it doesn't have one, the hottest setting.

Inspect every part of a front-load washer's door seal to make sure nothing is growing there either.

3. Walls, Carpet, and Flooring

If you spot mold on walls, carpet or flooring, it's a good idea to contact a professional in Winter Springs, FL, to deal with it.

Professionals with experience in mold remediation can inspect the current condition of the home and identify the safest way to clean it. Depending on the severity of the house mold, the technician may want to inspect the underlying area for structural damage.

There are some instances where you may be able to address mold growth without professional help. However, professional service will offer the best chance for the mold not returning and will also ensure the underlying cause is addressed.

For more info on mold and how to properly detect and remediate it, click here.

5 Pitfalls to Avoid Following a Flood

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

5 Pitfalls to Avoid Following a Flood

If a storm strikes in Chuluota, FL, your home may become susceptible to damage caused by floodwater. Should you experience such a calamity, keeping in mind the below precautions will help maximize a safe and cost-effective return to normalcy.

1. Prevent Electric Shock
Water conducts electricity, making wading through flooded houses particularly perilous. Reduce exposure to electrified water by wearing knee-high rubber boots. Always avoid removing cords or plugs with wet hands and only do so by pulling on the plug, not the cord. Additionally, never flip a circuit breaker before your place has been certified dry.

2. Look Out for Mold and Mildew
If flooding necessitates vacating your home, you may uncover a nasty surprise upon your return. Mold can begin growing within a day or two following a flood, especially when there is humidity. Consider wearing a respirator mask until you have had your house professionally checked for mold.

3. Beware of Contamination
Flood water relentlessly knocks over anything in its path and can therefore easily become compromised. Avoid touching any water in a flooded home that you are not certain is free from raw sewage or other hazardous substances.

4. Never Jump the Gun on Buying Furniture
Purchasing a new sofa or bed may feel like a step toward normalcy, but acquiring new items too soon may become costly. You never want to pay for storage while still managing the expense of cleaning up water damage.

5. Don’t Wait to Contact Your Insurance
Immediately check with your home insurance carrier regarding the proper steps toward assessing flood damage. The faster you do so, the sooner you will be able to employ a flood restoration service that can get your residence looking “Like it never even happened.”
Uncontrollable flood water can wreak havoc, but heeding the above warnings will help assure your safety, limit expenses, and speed up the restoration process.

Career Opportunities at SERVPRO

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Interested in being a part of the SERVPRO family? Apply today!

With 17 franchises in 6 locations throughout TN, FL, and TX, SERVPRO Team Nicholson is an exciting, diverse, innovative place to work. We foster positive company culture, offer competitive compensation packages, and prioritize community involvement. Come find out what it takes to be a part of our team! 

Our mission is to be a proud, laser-focused team holding each other accountable while creating positive opportunities for our people and becoming the most efficiently run organization in the markets we serve. We value honesty, reliability, relationships, trustworthiness, and authenticity! Our team develops and provides solutions; we are go-getters and carry a “bring it” attitude to our work environment. We listen and value each other’s thoughts and ideas and strive to bring them to life. We are built on hard work, transparency, good business, and integrity. We believe “You can’t go wrong doing the right thing.” 

Bill Repsel, our Regional Administrator, shared his testimony on what it's like working for SERVPRO. He said "Every day is a new day. It is an opportunity to serve others in our community in a time of need. We have an incredible team of people with great talent that strives to make a difference every day." 

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is proud of the work we do and is always looking for like-minded people interested in a rewarding career. Please submit your resume to recruiting@SERVPROclarksville.com, stop by our office at 2120 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Suite B, Orlando, FL from 8:00 am-5:00 pm Monday-Friday or click here to check out our current job openings.

Exploring the 3 Contaminated Water Types

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Contaminated water in Oviedo, FL, is something that no one wants to deal with, but it happens, so you want to ensure that you are informed. This guide helps you take the right steps to restore your home following a flood or bad water situation. 

Clean Water

Also referred to as white water, this type is considered clean and not harmful to people or your pets. The one exception to this rule would be if detergent got into the water. You may experience a flood of this water type due to situations, such as the following:

• Overflowing sink
• Toilet overflow or backup
• Damaged or broken water supply line
• Faucet damage or a severe leak

It is important to note that while this is initially considered harmless in most cases, it can progress to contamination within 48 hours, so prompt action to clean it up is often imperative. 

Contaminated Water

This type of wastewater may flow from your washing machine, dishwasher, or bathroom fixtures. It usually does not hurt people or pets, but it can contain impurities that can pose a danger to them. Some of the impurities that may be present include cleaning agents, food residue, and household chemicals. Within 48 hours, the associated mold and bacteria growth can transform into black water.

Sewer Water or Outside Flood Water

Sewer water is referred to as black water, and since it contains sewage, it is considered the most dangerous form of adulterated water. You should not attempt to go into an area with it without the proper protection.

Understanding clean water, contaminated water, black water, and the supply line that brings the water to your home can make it easier for you to take the appropriate action should you end up with unwanted water in your home. The faster you act, the more you reduce the potential negative issues, such as destruction of your belongings and mold growth. 

How To Provide First Aid for Workplace Burns

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

A burn is one of the most common types of injuries, especially in the workplace. Often the result of fire damage may have a variety of causes. Burn injuries range from very minor to fatal, and everyone at a business should know how to deal with one. Fortunately, first aid for a lesser burn injury is quite straightforward.

Types of Burn Injuries

A burn from fire damage is probably the first thing that comes to mind for most people. However, burns can come from surprising sources:

• Solar radiation
• Ionizing radiation, such as from radioactive materials
• Heat
• Cold
• Electricity
• Chemicals
• Friction
  
  

There are differences between how they are treated, but the overriding factor is how serious the burn is. However, your first action should always be to remove anyone from the source of the injury.

Severity Assessment
Serious burns are a medical emergency. If you have any doubts as to severity, call 911, and follow their advice.
Minor burns, known as first-degree burns, will usually leave an area of red, tender skin. Second-degree burns will leave the impacted area mottled, may be swollen, and can cause blisters to appear quickly. Third-degree burns, the most serious, are a deeply penetrating injury that requires immediate professional attention. The skin may have a leathery appearance, significant blistering, and may show black or yellow areas.

Minor Burn First Aid
First-degree burns can usually be treated in the workplace unless they cover an exceptionally large area or have impacted overly sensitive body parts like the eyes. Soak the area in cool water or apply a clean, wet towel for about five minutes. Allow it to dry, then apply an ointment. Aloe vera or antibiotic ointments work very well. For second-degree burns, soak the area longer – about 15 minutes or so.
Once everyone is safe and cared for after a fire, call a professional restoration company to repair the fire damage and remove the smoke odor. They can help you deal with insurance adjusters and protect any areas of your business left exposed after the fire.

3 Things To Know About the IICRC

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

Three Things To Know About This Certification

If a disaster were to strike your Oviedo, FL, business, would you know who to call for help? As a business owner, it’s wise to be prepared for emergencies such as floods, fires, and storms. Having the contact information for a professional disaster response team is the first step in minimizing damage. In addition to the right equipment and skills, a reputable company will possess certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Here are three things you need to know about this certification.

1. Company Certification

As a business owner or manager, it’s critical to surround yourself with companies and individuals who are experts in their field. Similar to hiring the best employees for your company, you want to hire the right professionals to restore your business in the event of a disaster. Look for a firm that holds a mitigation certificate from the IICRC. If the firm has earned this certificate, you can have peace of mind that your business will be restored the right way.

2. Individual Certification

In addition to granting company certification, individual certification can be earned as well. Courses and exams covered under individual certification include fire and water restoration, crew training and carpet and upholstery cleaning. It’s best to ensure that the restoration company you’re working with has certification; however, it’s even better if the individual employees have been trained as well.

3. High Standards

You want your business to be completely restored to safe working conditions after a disaster. The IICRC certification upholds high cleaning standards and can give you peace of mind that your business will be restored using the latest equipment, technology, and procedures. 

Be prepared for any emergency disaster by partnering with a restoration company that has a mitigation certificate. This will ensure that your business is fully restored and make it feel “Like it never even happened.”

Bursting Pipes: 4 Steps To Take Before Help Arrives

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Four Steps To Take To Help Fix Broken Pipes

Bursting pipes can turn into a nightmare if not approached carefully. Aside from the smelly, discolored water, and leaks that often accompany a broken pipe, more significant issues such as mold and secondary water damage to the home can occur. If you need to cross "fix broken pipe" off your to-do list quickly, the first step is to contact your local plumber and water restoration specialists. In the meantime, here are four steps you can take to help fix broken pipes before help arrives at your Chuluota, FL, home.

1. Turn Off the Water
To help prevent more water from leaking into your home, make sure to turn off the main water source. The main water valve can typically be found in the basement. This should help prevent any further damage.

2. Drain the Faucets
Turn on the cold water to drain any remaining water from the system. Be sure to flush the toilets a couple of times as well. This may prevent any remaining cold water from refreezing the previously bursting pipes and relieve backed-up pressure in them. Once the cold water appears to be drained, turn off the water heater and drain the hot taps directly after.

3. Clean Up Any Standing Water
More likely than not, some water has leaked into your home from the broken pipes. Clean up any wet spots or standing water in the house; allowing it to sit may lead to mold or mildew in the home.

4. Document Everything
This step is purely for insurance purposes. It is important to document and take pictures of any damage to the home or your possessions to show the insurance company when making a claim.
Bursting pipes can be a considerable expense, but by taking immediate action with the clean-up process, a lot of the damage can be reduced. Remember, at the first sign of trouble, contact the professionals before the situation gets worse!

Understanding How Your Homeowner's Policy Protects You Against Fire Loss

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Take Time To Consider Your Coverage Limits

No homeowner expects fire damage to happen. Most people rest easy, believing they are free of any imminent fire disasters. Unfortunately, residential fires happen every day, and aside from calling a fire damage restoration company in Geneva, FL, homeowners can call their insurance providers. Most essential policies cover at least four areas should a fire occur.

1. Dwelling
2. Liability Protection
3. Personal Property
4. Living Expenses
   
   

Dwelling
A homeowner's insurance policy covers a specific value, typically the cost of the home. Dwelling coverage pays for either repair to your property or to recover the loss of a home. Policies are typically valued for either the replacement cost of the house or the actual cash value of the property.

Liability Protection
Every property owner should evaluate their liability protection. Sometimes, a fire can spread from one home to another. Depending on how the fire began, a property owner needs to make sure they cannot be held liable for fire damage to a neighbor's property, which is the purpose of liability protection.

Personal Property
Nearly every homeowner's policy will also have personal property protection, which helps to replace or repair specific personal effects. The personal property portion of your policy can cover smoke damage to furniture and clothing, but it can also help cover the losses of more expensive items, like jewelry.

Living Expenses
Your homeowner policy may even cover additional living expenses, beyond the recovery of damages. Sometimes, you will need to live off-site for the reconstruction of your home. Some policies will cover a portion of these living expenses, up to 30% of the dwelling limit.
While fire damage is not often expected, a homeowner should be prepared. Insurance coverage is the best way to protect against significant loss, and so is having a restoration company on standby. Take time to consider your coverage limits, and reach out to a local restoration specialist for a home assessment.

Crucial Steps To Take When You Find Mold in Your Home

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

5 Ways to Decrease the Stress of Mold Cleanup

Finding mold in your home can be a real bummer. Mold forms moist environments, such as bathrooms, and is often the symptom of an underlying leakage problem. If you live in Winter Springs, FL, and are struggling with mold contamination, here are four things you can do to reverse course and decrease the stress of mold cleanup.

1. Understand What Mold is and How it Forms
Mold is a fungus that occurs naturally in the outdoors. In nature, mold breaks down organic matter and is a fundamental part of ecosystems; however, when these ecosystems occur inside, they should be removed.

2. Identify the Mold Correctly
The two most common fungi that form in apartments and houses are mold and mildew. If you suspect a fungal problem, it is important to identify which type of fungus is to blame. Mildew is a fuzzy, surface fungus, whereas mold embeds itself into surfaces and often has a fuzzy, black, or green appearance.

3. Contact Your Landlord
Mold can form for a variety of reasons. Most commonly, mold highlights an underlying water problem, such as a leaky pipe. Because landlords are responsible for the infrastructure of your apartment, they should respond quickly and help you with mold cleanup.

4. Identify the Underlying Problem
Once your landlord is involved, it is important to work with him or her to identify the underlying problem. If you ignore mold, it could cause a larger problem, such as harming the structural integrity of your apartment.

5. Bring in the Pros
Mold spores will continue to reproduce as long as water or moisture is present. Although it can be a pain to find mold in your home, a mold remediation company can help you eliminate the problem.
It is very common for people to encounter mold in their living spaces. If you find mold, it is important to take the necessary steps to identify its source and enlist the help of a professional mold cleanup company to eliminate the problem safely and efficiently.

What is Category 3 Water Damage?

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

If flood water has invaded your business in Oviedo, FL, it is important to clean it quickly. Category 3 water can contain high levels of contaminants, making it unsafe to enter. If it sits for an extended period, mold can begin to grow and bacteria can multiply. The sooner the problem is remedied, the less damage you may have, and the faster you can be back in business.

What Is Category 3 Water?

There are three categories of water contamination. Category 1 has little to no contaminants, and Category 2 contains some contaminants. Category 3 is the dirtiest and can contain a variety of contaminants:

• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Decaying organic matter
• Silt
• Pesticides
• Heavy metals
• Sewage

A toilet overflow is a common cause of Category 3 water because it can contain high levels of bacteria and viruses. Flood water is considered Category 3 water since it picks up everything along its path, including environmental toxins and e.coli.

How Can Things Return To Normal?
Most insurance companies cover water damage from a variety of sources, so the first thing you should do is contact your agent. Since it can be hazardous, it is best not to try to clean Category 3 water yourself. There are teams of professionals who are used to working through the entire process and know what needs to be done and in what order. A water remediation team can work to extract the excess water using specialized equipment and industrialized blowers to dry the area quickly. Experts can use an appropriate disinfectant or biocide to sanitize the area. If you have carpets, walls, or other structural materials that need to be removed, they can remove these and replace them with new materials.
Flood water damage can feel overwhelming. By working with a professional remediation company, you can have your workplace restored and business back to normal "Like it never even happened."

Water Damage 101

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Unexpected water in your Geneva, FL, home where it shouldn’t be isn’t something that should be overlooked. Whether the water damage appears to be minimal or a lot, understanding the type of water and damage is important to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Types of Water

Any kind of water needs to be immediately addressed to ensure further damage doesn’t occur. Before grabbing the mop and bucket or wet vacuum, it is vital to understand the type of water that is being dealt with. They are three categories of water:

Clean Water: As its name suggests, this type poses no threat. This damage occurs when a water supply line leaks, a sink or bathtub without contaminants overflows, melting snow, or rainwater infiltrates the home.
Gray Water: Once water mixes with chemicals or minimal biological contaminants, it moves to this category. Sources may include a leaking dishwasher, urine-only toilet overflow, or water condensation.
Black Water: This is unsanitary water full of bacteria and microorganisms harmful to humans and animals. If there was a recent flood, it could mean those rising water included sewage and other debris.

Types of Damage
When assessing water damage to determine repairs, understanding the types is important.

Class 1: The least harmful kind, it typically means that a minimal amount was absorbed in the affected areas. It is usually easy to clean.
Class 2: Known for quick evaporation rates, it can quickly absorb into carpeting and other porous materials. This damage typically requires more extensive repairs.
Class 3: If a sprinkler or pipe bursts, it can rapidly drench floors, walls, furniture, and other belongings. The rapid rate of evaporation requires quick action and water remediation measures to ensure the damage doesn’t spread or promote mold growth.
Class 4: Excessive flooding means massive saturation of integral home components. Consulting a water damage and remediation expert is the best bet containing the situation and ensuring further damage doesn’t happen.

While there are many levels of water damage, quick action in all situations is key to getting your home back to normal.

4 Things You Should Throw Out After a Fire

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke damage is pervasive, and it can ruin many items in your office, warehouse or store during a fire. If your business in Chuluota, FL, recently had a fire and you're in the midst of the smoke cleaning process, there are many things you can probably save but several you should throw out right away.

Perishable and Non-Perishable Food Items

Any food that came into contact with smoke, soot, flames, heat, or firefighting chemicals should get thrown out. This especially applies to food with open packaging, as smoke and soot can easily contaminate the food inside.

Uniforms and Textiles

It is possible to disinfect textiles and clothing after a fire but not necessarily recommended by most smoke damage cleaning professionals. Soot and smoke that get into fabrics contain chemicals that can hurt the skin upon contact. In addition, those who wear uniforms or other textiles that have been exposed to fire may inhale these chemicals even after the cloth has been subjected to extensive cleaning.

Upholstered Furniture Pieces

If your office or waiting room has upholstered furniture pieces exposed to the fire or soot damage, these items may be structurally unsafe and should get replaced following the fire. The only exception is hardwood furniture, which business owners can often salvage with an oil soap designed for furniture.

Toiletries, Cosmetics, and Medicines

High heat, smoke and the water used by firefighters can have an impact on toiletries, cosmetics, and medicines. Because of the high temperatures likely to be found in a commercial fire, medications may lose their effectiveness and the composition of cosmetics may be compromised. Even if there is no visible damage, it may be best to get rid of them.
It may be difficult financially and logistically for your business to throw away so much inventory and other office items after a fire. At the same time, getting rid of all items with smoke damage will contribute to a faster cleanup process and return to normal business operations.

4 Tips for Preparing Your Company for a Storm

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Getting Your Company Storm Ready

While disaster preparedness is not everyone's favorite activity, it can be the difference between a company surviving a storm and one that does not. When a hurricane strikes a small company, as many as 40 percent of these businesses never reopen. That's why a good plan is critical. What, though, is the best approach when you do not have infinite time and resources? Here are four top tips for getting your company ready.

1. Get Insurance. Having the right policy in effect when a storm strikes can be a lifesaver. It's a good idea to spend some time structuring a policy that makes sense for your company. Business interruption insurance can cover some of the expenses if the damage is so severe that normal operations are suspended. Claims payments can replace lost inventory and damaged equipment that is vital to your success.

2. Fortify the Building's Exterior. A strong and built building to withstand high winds can survive a hurricane or tornado where a weaker builder will not. A fortified roof system will have a better chance of keeping water out. Durable siding is a crucial aspect of business preparedness, as are windows built to hold up in strong winds.

3. Make a Disaster Preparedness Checklist. This document will include all the information needed in a storm: important contacts of emergency services in Chuluota, FL, the location of critical equipment, shutoff valves, and emergency supplies, and the phone number of a local storm remediation team for assistance in the recovery.

4. Spend Time on Planning. The more time your company spends on planning, the better its disaster preparedness will be. It's a good idea to consult with experts and bring in professionals to coach employees on what actions to take and not to take in times of stress. Organizations such as FEMA have helpful resources to help with your efforts.

It's your Responsibility to Prepare Your Business for a Disaster

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

The world is changing at an unprecedented pace. For a variety of reasons, officially declared major disasters have almost doubled since the 1990s. This impacts everyone, everywhere, and Oviedo, FL, is no exception. If you own or manage a business, there’s no excuse not to have a plan for disaster preparedness.

Disasters Come in Many Shapes and Sizes

There are so many potential disasters that no one can be fully prepared for everything. However, it’s entirely worthwhile to develop business preparedness for the most common types of catastrophes. The three main areas of disaster to plan for are

• Technological Disaster
• Manmade Disaster
• Natural Disaster

Technology is Your Friend – Until it Isn’t 

The information technology that’s now essential for virtually all businesses has a nasty tendency to break down. If you haven’t developed disaster preparedness for losing some or all of your files and hardware, you’re likely to pay a terrible cost eventually. Back up everything constantly to the cloud and use a tape backup once a day or more.

Manmade Disasters Are Often the Bitterest 

When someone’s carelessness or bad intent causes the disaster, it can feel very personal. A virus attack, ransomware, or vandalism all are intrusions into your life, and a single internet crime aimed at a company can bankrupt it unless you’ve consistently backed up everything possible. Vandalism is harder to stop but typically easier to fix with insurance.

Natural Disasters Can Be Survivable 

If you’ve planned for all the major natural disasters, you’re likely to face and kept all key employees informed and prepared. You have an excellent chance of your business bouncing back. Having effective disaster preparedness isn’t a matter of luck; it’s the result of doing some basic research and practicing how you and your employees will respond.

FEMA has excellent resources for recovering after a disaster. Their business disaster planning handbook is accessible to everyone and is a relatively quick read. Once you’ve had storm damage, a restoration company can then take over the process. They’ll help you with insurance forms and rapidly develop a plan to get your company back to full functionality.

Quick Guide to Black Water

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

If you experienced a flood at your Geneva, FL, home recently, you might have been told your property has sustained Category 3 water damage. Here is some vital information on what Category 3 water damage is and how you can eliminate it from your home.

Damage Categories

There are three categories of destruction from water. They are classified as follows:

• Category 1 damage, also known as “white water” (clean water)
• Category 2 damage, also known as “gray water” (clean water that sat for a while)
• Category 3 damage, which is known as “black water”(usually stems from flood water)

Category 3 water is not only contaminated, but it can also cause damage to your home. In most cases, professionally trained technicians can, fortunately, help you clean and decontaminate the building when such an issue is present.

Cleaning Procedures

When facing water damage caused by a contaminated liquid, your safest plan usually involves contacting a local restoration company. These professionals can normally arrive quickly, work efficiently and assess any damage. After the assessment, the following cleaning steps typically occur:

1. Removal of water
2. Humidity reduction and drying of wet surfaces
3. Sanitation and cleaning of damaged areas
4. Remediation of damaged property

Many companies also offer digitization services for special situations, such as when a wet financial document or photograph needs to be preserved. Additionally, suppose a valuable or special part of your property cannot be salvaged. In that case, the trained technicians on the scene may have suggestions for a preservation method or a long-term storage situation to remedy the problem.

Being Prepared

Water damage can be a difficult situation that no homeowner deserves to experience. However, preparing for the possible event and accepting the disaster at hand if it occurs can help concerned Geneva, FL, residents like yourself persevere in the face of such a nightmare. It can also allow you to protect your investments better.

How to Deal With Sewage Problems in the Home

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Most homeowners in Geneva, FL, contend with slow drains, poor water pressure or blocked pipes. If these problems sound familiar, you've probably used household solutions to overcome them. For more serious concerns, like a backed-up sewer or significant blockage in your plumbing lines, you may need more professional help with sewage cleaning.

Common Causes of Plumbing Issues

Even small plumbing problems can frustrate you, so it is helpful to know how these start. Once you know the root of the concern, you can develop a game plan to solve it. Here are a few:

• Buildup in pipes from sediment, human waste, hair, and food, causing a clogged pipe. 
• Faulty appliances
• Cold weather freezing pipes, causing them to burst

Overflowing Toilets

You can face a toilet overflow at home due to a few causes. Sometimes, you may even see this happen when you turn on the water in the shower. This indicates blockage somewhere between the toilet and the sewer. Water will back up in the waste lines and exit the first place it can: the toilet. Repairing this could be as simple as using a plunger. If that is ineffective, you could try using a sewer snake tool. You might have to call a plumber if the job gets too big. If you don't resolve this overflow, you could face significant damage and end up hiring a professional sewer cleaning crew. 

Sewer System Backup

If the main sewer line into your home backs up, you'll notice it pretty quickly because of the foul odor. Sewage cleaning is something you should leave to the pros. The line can clog due to a collapse or from tree roots growing into the pipes. Luckily, if the blockage is under the street and not on your property, your local water and sewer company should take care of it. 

The prospect of sewage cleaning can be scary. Pay attention to these common issues and how you can spot and repair them.

What Remedies Exist After Mold Infestation?

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Oviedo / Winter Springs East is here to help! Call today!

Mold damage concerns property owners, proprietors, and employers becoming more aware of the need for remediation from mold damage. Mold is a type of fungus useful for commercial purposes in the manufacture of brie and penicillin but can be destructive in homes and offices. Mitigation of mold growth is a cost-effective way of dealing with the infestation of mold in homes and reducing commercial mold damages. Mold removal requires one to seek professional services to ensure that it can be eliminated. Remediation from fungus responsible for mold growth is necessary to manage mold in homes and reduce commercial mold damages.

Areas likely to be infested:

• Moist carpet surfaces
• Poorly stored food
• Wet clothing
• Waste Paper
• Wall surfaces with water

Mold Infestation Restoration Process

1. Emergency Contact

The process of mold removal from your house or office should begin when you notice it. Mildew and the smelly odor from hidden moist surfaces are clear signs of mold infestation. Avoiding commercial mold damage requires the use of a professional who understands mold remediation well with experience in managing mildew and its mitigation.

2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

After contacting service providers for mold removal, the service provider shall do a commercial mold damage inspection for visible signs of mildew and smelly odor. Since mildew is microscopic, the service provider needs to use the appropriate equipment to assess the infestation level. Various technologies are in use to detect growth on surfaces.

3. Mold Containment

Containment is a process that curtails the spread of mold before removal can take place. Advanced procedures such as negative air chambers can isolate the infected area by use of physical barriers. All air conditioners, heating, and cooling should be turned off to prevent mold spores' further spread.

4. Air Filtration

Air filtration must be undertaken during the removal of molds in homes to capture suspended fungus spores. An air filtration process involves specialized equipment that traps mold spores from the air allowing professionals to undertake a successful and safe mold removal.

5. Removal of Mold and Mold-infested Items

The level of mold growth and the type of surface upon which it grows plays a role in the mold remediation process. Subsequently, an expert will use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to clean up the fungus and prevent new mold growth.

Removing all the mildew from furniture and ensuring that they will be adequately cleaned before reusing them.

6. Cleaning of Infested Items

Depending on the mold damage level, appropriate fungicides and microbial treatments should be used in the cleaning process. Experts will ensure that fungus on every item is cleaned. It is also important to note that items found to be over-infested should be replaced with new ones.

Sometimes it is necessary to carry out deodorization on cleaned walls and furniture so that the smelly odor that may be existing can be done away with altogether.

7. Restoration

After a mold remediation process is completed, it is necessary to ensure that the restoration of various aspects of your house or office is fixed. It can involve repainting furniture, disposal of some items, deodorization, and minor repairs on walls. Carpets should undergo deodorization to eliminate the smelly odor.

Conclusion

Mitigation measures against mold infestation should be the primary focus in preventing full-fledged commercial mold damage and reducing molds in homes. Instances of mold in a home or commercial mold damage require taking mitigation measures against factors that favor mold growth. Deodorization is necessary for eliminating the smelly odor caused by mold in homes and offices. Repairing broken water pipes, keeping all surfaces of your furniture dry, fixing broken gutters, improving air circulation, and identifying areas infected by molds and cleaning it up will ensure that you manage mold infestation.

Winter Storm Flooding: Tips to Protect Your Business

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

When you think of how flooding might impact your Oviedo, FL business, weather events like torrential rain storms or hurricanes might come to mind. However, flooding can occur in almost any kind of weather, including during the winter months, and is usually the result of a burst pipe exposed to freezing temperatures. You can protect your business from winter floods by preparing for cold weather and having a plan if flooding occurs. 

Plan for Winter Weather 

If cold weather arrives around the same time every year in your area, you can plan accordingly to protect your building from winter flooding. Be aware of how your building’s water supply operates and which piping sections might be the most vulnerable. Locate valves and fixtures if you need to turn off the water in case of a flooding event. 

Insulate Your Building’s Pipes 

A frozen pipe can burst without warning and cause severe flooding inside your business. Because water can damage electrical systems and ruin stored inventory in moments, preventing frozen pipes is a smart way to protect your investments. Insulate your outdoor pipes before freezing temperatures arrive and improve or add insulation around indoor pipes as well, especially in your building’s basement. 

Work With a Flood Mitigation Company

When a burst pipe causes flooding, taking care of the problem quickly to prevent the water from spreading can avoid severe damage to your business. Hiring a professional cleaning and restoration company to provide you with mitigation services in case of a flooding emergency may help stem the worst of the water damage before it can reach other areas of your building. These flood experts can also safely remove standing water in affected areas. 

When cold weather arrives in Oviedo, FL, it can cause a frozen or burst pipe that could quickly flood your business. Preparing for frigid temperatures and having an emergency flood plan in place could help protect your building and everyone who enters it. 

Handling Mold Damage at Home or Work

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most common misconceptions regarding mold damage is it occurs when there’s been a flood. While mold damage is highly likely following flood damage or any form of water entering the home from a burst pipe or even a small leak, it’s not just a significant flood issue that causes mold growth. Residential mold, commercial mold damage, and mold can occur anywhere at any time. Mold is a fungus. This fungus needs only a little humidity and the smallest presence of moisture to grow. This fungus multiplies, and it’s not always a harmless fungus.

Mold growth takes very little time. Less than 72 hours after mold in the home or commercial mold damage occurs, it can spread rapidly. It’s often more dangerous than it appears, too, since the smallest area of mildew, fungus, or dry rot appears small but could indicate significant mold growth behind walls. It’s why professional mold removal done by a restoration company along with remediation and mitigation is the only answer when mold damage occurs. Mold removal should never be attempted by someone who is not a professional or employed by a professional restoration company.

Evidence and Signs of Mold Growth

Mold damage in residential or commercial properties is not always noticeable to home or business owners. A few evidence mold is present in the home, or commercial mold damage is present, and no one knows if it’s black mold or just a regular fungus. Evidence of mold in the home is apparent when the humidity level is high, and evidence of black mold or other mold growth is typically the presence of water. Whether it’s a leaking pipe or flood damage, any water in the home or office is evidence there might be mold damage somewhere, whether it’s mold growth behind walls or in a corner people don’t notice quickly.

The most common sign of mold growth behind walls is a smelly odor. This smelly odor is noticeable when people walk by the mold or even black mold is growing behind walls. The first step many people take is to use a form of deodorization to make the smell disappear. They might not realize how often they’re using deodorization until the smelly odor doesn’t disappear.

Home and business owners should know deodorization is adequate to handle a smelly odor, but it’s calling a professional restoration company that makes the most sense. A smelly odor that doesn’t go away despite all the deodorization techniques someone is using might mean there is mold growth behind walls or even the presence of black mold.

Any mildew that appears in a bathroom or basement and even the presence of dry rot might indicate mold damage is prevalent. Mildew and dry rot are common indicators, but that doesn’t mean they’ll grow only in expected places. Mildew and dry rot might occur along with door frames in bathrooms, garages, kitchens, or anywhere else in a home.

Why DIY Mold Removal is a Terrible Idea

DIY mold removal is not a good idea, and it’s never recommended. Professional mitigation and remediation is the only answer. Disturbing mold spores causes it to spread even faster. There are several reasons no one should ever attempt DIY mold removal. The spores spread quickly, and many people can experience health effects from mold. Too much mold growth can cause health effects if it’s black mold, and most people don’t realize the difference.

When mold is present, people who can do the best thing are called a restoration company for professional mitigation and remediation. It’s safe to start the process of water removal immediately following a flood of any sort. It’s also helpful if home and business owners take the time to turn off their HVAC system, so mold spores aren’t transported into other areas of a home or office. It’s wisest to call for professional mitigation and remediation before attempting anything, but these are ways to help stop the rapid spread of mold.

Water Damage Steps

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can be devastating for a home or business. It's possible to lose everything as a result. However, it's essential to understand what needs to be done if your home or business has sustained damage due to some water-related incident or natural disaster. There are certain steps you need to take in the event of a flooded home or business. These steps will keep you safe and help you prepare for professional technicians to start the water cleanup process in your flooded home or business.

Unknown Hazards

Water damage is often hard to pinpoint once the water has receded. It can occur for many reasons. However, it usually results from a flood, a supply line break, or a pipe break. The damage can be both dangerous and devastating. Although it may not be visible to the naked eye, what you can't see can hurt you. Within 24 hours of water damage, microbial growth sets in. Moisture can collect just about anywhere. It can be present behind the walls, in the drywall, and even in furniture and other porous materials. However, this is not the only concern. Wildlife can also take up residence in a recently flooded area, creating an extra need for safety and precaution. It's not unusual for everything from snakes and rodents to reptiles to be present in a flood situation. Be prepared. Wear boots and other protective clothing. It's also not a bad idea to wear rubber gloves and a vapor respirator. Even contaminated liquids can pose a threat to your safety. This is a concern with a supply line break and a pipe break. This is why you must exercise extreme caution when entering an area that has been recently flooded from natural causes or a supply line break or pipe break.

Safety Measures

If you must enter an area that has been recently flooded, make sure that the electricity has been turned off. Electric wires and outlets may still present some safety issues, making it possible to be electrocuted. Err on the side of caution to prevent injury. Flood damage always calls for extra safety measures. A restoration company generally makes mitigation a priority when it comes to making an area safe again. Water cleanup is generally the priority in situations where there is water in a home or water in a business. The drying process is a part of the mitigation plan as well. Anytime you have a flooding situation, there is usually some sustained damage that will make some things unusable.

Restoration Professionals

Professionals best handle water damage. A restoration company is qualified and prepared to determine what items in a flooded home are beyond salvaging. The same holds for a business. However, items like mattresses, box springs, particleboard, and pillows hold more moisture than other items and generally have to be thrown away. This can be done before a restoration company comes to perform water cleanup. Record and itemize any items lost to flood damage for insurance purposes. Restoration companies make mitigation a top priority when handling water in a home and water in a business. They have the skills and training to quickly determine items that have water damage and may be unsalvageable. Professional technicians will know how to approach water cleanup and the drying process. They understand the hazards that water can create and actively work to diminish those hazards through mitigation.

The Process

A professional restoration company comes into a flooded home or business with mitigation as a top priority. They search for pockets of moisture and remove them. These pockets can be behind the tile, walls, and other materials that may feel dry to the touch. They use specialized equipment that allows them to measure moisture levels. This equipment can locate moisture in hidden pockets. These pockets are then exposed to air by removing tile, drywall, or any other material that may be trapping the moisture in a particular area. This is part of the drying process. Part of restoration is pressure washing any areas where moisture was present to prevent or eliminate mold and bacteria growth. Detergent can be used to pressure wash affected areas. If mold and bacteria are found, technicians get rid of them by using mechanical methods and chemical methods. They also have tools that speed up the drying process to prevent more bacteria and mold growth.

Make Sure the Company is Certified

Make sure the restoration company that you hire is certified. The certification should be through a reputable organization as well. Technicians who have had the proper training know what to do in the event of flood damage and water damage resulting from a flood, supply line break, or pipe break. Anytime you have standing water in your home or standing water in your business for a prolonged amount of time, there will be damage. However, acting quickly and calling a professional company are the best approach.

Dealing with a home or business that has sustained water or flood damage isn't fun. However, the chances of mitigation and restoration are greater when you hire a restoration company to help. Professionals will identify which items have been damaged beyond repair, locate excess moisture and remove it. Go with a professional company if you are faced with water in your home or water in your business.

Importance of Hiring Professional Commercial Fire Restoration Services

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

A business loss is a reality that all owners are familiar with and make efforts to remain afloat. However, fire damage is a different thing altogether for business because it leads to loss, but it destroys the infrastructure for recovering that loss. Utility room fire or electrical fire outbreaks have a chilling effect on a commercial property.

In an effort against fire loss, most buildings have measures to protect the property from utility room fire or electrical fire loss. A fire sprinkler system is one of the strategies that play an essential role in fire suppression.

This system has sensors that detect a change in room temperature. If the temperature reaches a critical level, the alarm turns on, the valves open, and water jets are sprinkled in the rooms. The fire sprinkler system is the first line of defense against fire before the arrival of backup from firefighters.

Fire Suppression Exercise

The fire sprinkler system alone may not curb utility room fire or electrical fire outbreak from spreading. If no response comes quickly to help the fire sprinkler system, the fire can easily consume the entire building. Firefighters must arrive on time with their fire truck and fire hose to undertake intensive fire suppression. They are professionals in fire suppression, and they spare no effort to make sure that the inferno is put out as quickly as possible. This means that the firefighters can break into doors and windows without asking for permission and are not liable for any damage they cause while fighting the fire.

The fire truck is sometimes brought closer to the building; cranes are ejected to hoist the firefighter and fire hose inappropriate height. The fire hose is capable of injecting high-pressure water from the fire truck onto the fire. Firefighters have to ensure that the fire does not spread further and could take a few minutes while some could go for hours. Utility room fire or electrical fire could spread through the building very fast and must be stopped immediately.

Fire Damage and Firefighting Mess

After the fire, the reality of what transpired inside becomes clear to the owner and the need for fire restoration. Apart from the fire damage, there is soot damage, water damage, and visible smoke damage. Also, the fire hose pressure mixes and turns everything upside down.

The charred mess of fire damage is visible, and sometimes hard to recognize what it was. The flood from the fire truck is all over the place, making some documents and carpets wet. This devastating scene can only be rectified by professionals who are familiar with commercial fire damage restoration.

Professional Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Hiring professionals for fire restoration is half the job done because you can rest assured that their services would turn the mess around and create a familiar place for your business. Professional commercial fire damage services usually take a record of the items destroyed and the remaining ones. Those that can be repaired or cleaned are sorted while the rest is appropriately disposed of. They also find out where data backups could be salvaged, such as the computer hard drives, among others.

The soot damage, water damage, and smoke damage are some of the things that must be cleaned fast to restore the face of the interior. Soot damage is cleaned using a dry brush to remove the ash as the painting is done. Water is drained from the rooms and floor cleared, and drying prevents mold from growing. The smoke damage is deodorized from the remaining upholstery and other areas that could have absorbed the odor.

After completing the soot damage, smoke damage, and water cleanup, the damaged items are replaced, and those under repair are brought back. Most of the fire restoration services have adequate tools and workforce to expedite the restoration effort. Commercial fire damage can be a devastating experience, but your business will emerge triumphant over the fire damage if you use professional fire restoration services.