How to Prevent Black Mold in Your HVAC System

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Walls in the basement were damaged by water and mold

Black Mold Is Very Dangerous But Easily Preventable

By now, everyone has heard of black mold. In case you haven't, it is a dangerous form of toxic mold that grows in a variety of environments. It is named for its color and can cause a lot of effects, but there are ways to prevent it.

Keep Your Filters Clean
If you use replaceable filters, replace them every 30 to 60 days, depending on your business. If you have washable filters, make sure you wash them regularly with an approved mold preventative cleaner. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it also prevents other issues.

Look for Wet Spots
Wet spots can appear in several ways. Some of these ways are:

• Brown spots
• Sweating ducts
• Grey areas
• Black spots

When you see wet spots, it is extremely important to dry them as soon as possible because black mold grows very quickly.

Have Your Ducts Professionally Cleaned
You should have your air ducts professionally inspected and cleaned at least twice per year. This should happen in the spring and fall and can prevent mold or mildew build-up. It isn't difficult to find mold cleaning companies in Enumclaw, WA.

Keep an Eye on Humidity
Assuming you have clean ducts, you can use a hygrometer to measure the amount of humidity in, on or near your ductwork. These instruments are not expensive and can be placed almost anywhere you need them. You can also use a portable meter to measure humidity in whatever area you need to.

Fix Water Damage Immediately

In the event of a flood or leak, fix the damage immediately. It takes just 24 to 48 hours for mold to start to grow. Damaged ductwork and drywall need to be removed and replaced before mold has a chance to form.

Black mold is very dangerous but easily preventable. With a little bit of work, you can stop a major problem before it starts.

The Importance of Tending to Both Primary and Secondary Damage

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

Water and mold damage in a South Hill, WA home

The Importance of Tending to Both Primary and Secondary Damage

Black mold is a fungus that thrives on dampness. When water penetrates something organic, it triggers the mold's development, permitting fast reproduction. Homeowners may concentrate on the mold but not think much about how it started. Both the source, though, and the result are significant. If one isn't fixed, then the other may just continue to reappear down the road; therefore, homeowners should be aware of the house's secondary and primary damage. When both are understood and cared for, the property can be properly restored.

What Is Primary Damage?
Something initiated the trouble, causing a level of high humidity or excess wetness. This is considered the primary cause. For example, any of the following would fall into the classification:

• Pipe burst
• Sewer backup
• Leaky faucet
• Missing shingles

A water restoration company in South Hill, WA, should investigate the premises, searching for the source. The experts then should shut off the water supply, fixing any plumbing issues. By taking this step first, the professionals mitigate the devastation.

What Is Secondary Home Damage?
Secondary complications stem from primary cause. A broken pipe, for example, allowed moisture to penetrate a space. When it soaked into the walls and flooring, the fluid started secondary concerns. Black mold, for example, might begin to grow. In addition, wood can rot, carpet can get contaminated and valuables are likely to become ruined.

The team tends to the secondary damage by extracting moisture, sanitizing the property and replacing spoiled items. Drenched dry wall and carpeting is pulled out. These porous materials are too difficult to fully clean. Instead, replacements are needed. Content cleaning can be applied to things that fall into the following categories:

• electronics
• pictures
• documentation
• fixtures

Speak with the crew about anything special. They can advise of the proper treatment.
Black mold isn't something you want in your home.

To keep it at bay, you'll want to be aware of primary water damage. With that under control, residents are less likely to suffer other headaches.

Can Employees Resume Work During Restoration?

7/8/2022 (Permalink)

Whether you need professional cleaning to make your business shine, or emergency water restoration services, SERVPRO is here ready to help you.

Can Employees Return To Work During The Restoration Process?

Business owners may wonder when employees can safely resume work in a commercial building that has experienced damage. The answer may be sooner rather than later. Depending on whether black water, storm damage, or a fire caused the damage, employees may be able to return as soon as cleanup is complete and work through the restoration period.

Water Damage

There are several types of water damage that may affect the duration of mitigation.

• Clean Category One water from a burst supply pipe should not cause a major interruption.

• Category Two gray water is considered contaminated with chemicals or microbes but does not contain solid waste. Complete disinfection prior to resuming work is often required, and interruption might not be necessary if only a portion of the property sustained damage.

• Category Three black water in flood cleanup or from a sewer backup should be extracted, and the affected area disinfected and dried.

Keep in mind that nearly all categories of water contain salts that can cause corrosion and short-circuiting in electronics. Computers, electronic devices, or servers may or may not be able to be restored, which could cause delays.

Storm Damage

If a storm causes a roof leak or breaks windows, employers should wait until cleanup and basic mitigation is complete before calling in employees. The same guidelines for water damage apply to flood damage resulting from a storm.

Other Damage

Fire or smoke damage may call for more extensive restoration and air filtration. It may take longer for a work space to be considered safe for employees following this type of damage. Consult with a restoration service to set a timeline for resuming regular business.

Employees should not work in a structure that is undergoing mitigation for black water or flood cleanup. They may be able to return during restoration. For the best results, hire an experienced commercial restoration company in Graham, WA.

What To Do About Water Damage at Your Commercial Property

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business experiences storm or flood damage, call our SERVPRO of Puyallup/Sumner team today!

What Should You Do If Your Commercial Property Has Water Damage?

Anything from faulty plumbing to severe weather can quickly become a problem for your Graham, WA, commercial property. Never fear, however, because there are several ways you can prevent damage and quickly respond when disaster strikes. Below you will learn about the causes of water damage, tips for cleanup and restoration, and tools to prevent damage in the future. 

Causes of Water Troubles

Here is a list of common sources and access points for water damage: 

Severe weather can range from flooding to freezing temperatures and harm a building’s foundation.
Fire will set off ceiling sprinklers and may require additional use of firehoses to extinguish, thus saturating the ceilings, walls, floors, and furniture.
Broken pipes, aged plumbing, and leaking HVAC are common causes of water leaks. 

Roof damage and improper window seals are access points for weather damage and water.

Tips for Water Cleanup

If water has already damaged your property, it is important to respond quickly and appropriately. An important reminder: never enter a building with standing water until cleared in case electricity is still running to the building. Your first step is to call a professional water restoration company. These crews will assess the damage, pump the water out, remove damaged materials, and use industrial cleaners and equipment to clean and thoroughly dry the affected space. 

There are actions you can take to aid the cleaning progress:

• Use buckets and mops to remove excess water to allow for better drying.
• Remove loose items from the floor.
• Remove and hang wet fabrics.
• Use fans and dehumidifiers when it is safe to use electricity. 

Tools for Preventing Damage

Take care of your property by scheduling regular maintenance. Annually, schedule checkups for HVAC, roofing, fire sprinklers, electrical, and plumbing. Also, have a professional inspection and restoration company perform an overall water damage inspection. 

Water can cause many problems for your commercial property, but there are steps you can take to prevent this damage. Understand your property’s risk factors to better prepare for water trouble mitigation and protect your investment. 

How Insurers Benefit from the SERVPRO Franchise Model

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Our team prides ourselves in being "Faster to any size disaster," and provides a 24-hour emergency service 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

How the SERVPRO Franchise Model Benefits Insurers

When a claim is filed that requires remediation and restoration services in Sumner, WA, it means that work needs to get started fast. Since it is vital the work is done right, choosing a SERVPRO franchise ensures that happens. This innovative business model was developed to maximize every part of the restoration process. Below are four reasons to choose this franchise.

1. Locally Owned

With more than 1,900 locations throughout the United States and Canada, help is right around the corner. No matter the disaster, you can be confident that you will have 24/7 access to a person to get the claim rolling and a team of professionals within two hours of nearly any zip code.

2. Corporate Backed

Along with have a local team right around the corner, you also get the peace of mind that the team is backed by a corporate team ready to serve. From experts in insurance to large loss emergency services, corporate backing means ongoing support and expertise to handle any size of a disaster.

3. Ongoing Training

As a franchise, it must adhere to the strict standards set by corporate. That means that all local technicians have been IICRC certified and receive ongoing training. Each new franchise must participate in a 15-day training program at the corporate training facility. After that, every technician must complete regular training to maintain certifications and stay up to date on the latest in the industry.

4. Preferred Vendor

As an insurance provider, you want the claim to go as smoothly as possible. When you chose a local franchise backed by a corporate team, it means you are getting the services of an established company. With more than 50 years of experience in the industry, SERVPRO has become a preferred vendor for many companies.

A SERVPRO franchise is much more than a reliable, local team of professionals. When choosing it is a provider, you get the backing of a corporate support team and a brand name trusted for decades.

How to Deal with Weather-Related Flight Cancelations

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

When facing a weather-related canceled flight stay calm.

How to Handle Flight Cancellations Caused by Weather

With the modern convenience of around-the-globe travel, people young and old enjoy flights year-round to some of the world’s most exciting destinations. But one thing all air-travel customers have in common is the fear of a canceled flight due to bad weather. While it can happen to anyone, a flight cancelation can be both inconvenient and stressful to the average airplane passenger. If you find yourself in this common travel predicament, consider these three tips for dealing with your weather delay.

1. Contact the Airline

Once you receive word that your flight has been cancelled, you will likely be instructed to get in a line to reserve further travel arrangements. As the masses throng to the airline service desk, take out your cell phone and contact the airline directly. A customer service rep should be able to look-up the current cancelation status of your trip and assist you in rebooking immediately. When calling a commercial airline, have the following information readily available to speed up the process:

• Your personal information
• Flight itinerary including flight number
• Credit card number used to book the flight

2. Make Hotel Reservations

Now that you are sure you have a canceled flight on your hands, assess how long you are willing to sit at the airport. If you have to wait over 12 hours for weather conditions to improve or for alternate travel arrangements to take place, you may want to consider booking a hotel room. Adding exhaustion to an already stressful travel day is a recipe for disaster. Instead, stay the night in a local Puyallup, WA, hotel to feel refreshed when flights do become available again.

3. Be Polite

Finally, in all of the chaos of traveling and gathering storm tips don’t forget that at the end of the day there is only so many people can do in the case of inclement weather. It is likely the airlines are just as frazzled by the delays as the many stranded passengers. Good manners may go a long way in getting what you want in all of the disorder.

When facing a weather-related canceled flight stay calm. Follow these three simple tips to get you back on your way as soon as possible.

Do I Need Fire Insurance for my Commercial Building?

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Cleanup and restoration can be completed quickly for businesses with fire insurance because the costs are primarily covered by the insurance company.

Is Fire Insurance Required For My Commercial Building?

While a mortage company will most likely require a business to carry fire insurance, once a property is free of any liens, the business owner may or may not choose to continue to carry coverage. Yet, in Graham, WA, it is in the best interest of all businesses to have fire insurance in addition to other types of business insurance. 

Risks Associated With Not Having Fire Insurance
Fires remain one of the most common types of disasters businesses experience. They can also create devastating damage that can be hard to overcome without insurance. 

Fire insurance protects a business in several ways:

• It covers costs associated with smoke cleanup.
  
• It covers repairs for structural damages.
  
• It covers repairs associated with fire suppression materials. 
• It may also cover any fees charged for fire-fighting services. 

How Do Businesses Recover From Fire?

Once a fire has occurred, many structures are uninhabitable until fire restoration takes place. It is the job of the restoration company to assess the damage, take action to prevent further damage, and finally, restore the structure to its former state, which is hospitable to the work that takes place within the structure. 

For businesses that have fire insurance in their policies, the cleanup and restoration can happen quite speedily due to the expenses being mostly covered through the insurance company. The insurance company and restoration company work together to ensure that business can resume as quickly as possible.

For a business without insurance, the recovery process can be more painful to the business, assuming it has the capital to make recovery possible. Unfortunately, for many businesses, this type of disaster was not in the short-term budget. 

Nobody plans to experience disasters such as fires; they simply happen and at the most inopportune times. Keeping an updated insurance policy that includes fire insurance will ensure business operations can continue despite the inconveniences of fire damage. 

5 Things to Include in a Fire Damage Estimate

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire it is crucial to take the time to properly assess all the damage that has occurred in order to get a fair restoration estimate.

5 Factors To Consider When Estimating Fire Damage

If you were the victim of a fire at your business in Sumner, WA, you know how overwhelming the aftermath can be. But it's crucial to take the time to adequately assess all of the damage that occurred to get a fair restoration estimate. Here are five things to include in a claim.

1. Restoration Costs

Fire isn't the only element that can cause damage to your business during a fire. Water used during firefighting can also cause damage. An emergency restoration service can be on-site to assess all the damage and outline a plan to clean and restore your space as soon as the building is deemed safe.

2. Board Up Services

Windows often break during a fire, and doors may be damaged. Your restoration estimate can include the costs of board-up services. Tarps might also be used to keep water off of damaged roofs in the event of rain.

3. Debris Cleanup

One often forgotten side effect of a commercial fire is the amount of debris left behind. All damaged materials have to be thrown away, and the lot must be cleaned before you can begin to rebuild. A debris cleanup service does the work, removes the trash, and disposes of it responsibly.

4. Storage Costs

If you had a functional sprinkler system in your building, some of your belongings are likely salvageable. After the restoration process is completed and everything is clean, you'll need a place to store office furniture, product, and equipment while your building is repaired or rebuilt.

5. Repairs After Fire Damage

Results of fire damage look different for different businesses. A business in an older building might suffer more damage that needs heavy repairs than one in a newer building. Repair costs can be included in your claim.

When you file a claim with your insurance company after a fire, it's vital to have an estimate covering every aspect of getting you back to work so that you aren't stuck with steep bills later.

3 Major Reasons Why Security Fencing Is Necessary

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

A security fence surrounding your business after a fire decreases the likelihood of intruders and all of their inherent problems.

Three Major Reasons Why Security Fencing Is Required

When professional restoration representatives work with you to recover your business from fire and smoke damage, they may offer security fence installation around your property. While this measure might not seem as immediate as tarps and boards, it does contribute to the overall process. Explore the following reasons why fencing can protect your commercial building and assist with the restoration.

1. Damage Prevention

After a fire, the location is most likely in a vulnerable state. The broken windows, damaged walls and other unexpected openings can allow people to enter the building without permission. They might seek to destroy the property further or just explore the area, but their actions can escalate the damage, delay the reconstruction efforts and increase the overall expenses. Wild animals can also wander inside and cause similar effects. A solid fence can prevent these intrusions and their consequences.

2. Crime Deterrence

Another advantage of surrounding your business with a security fence is the deterrence of crime. Fire damage can make this place the target of criminals who aim to vandalize the property or steal any potential valuables. Additionally, there might be some equipment left overnight during the clean up or repair. Its damage or theft can set back the procedures. Fencing adds a layer of security that can help you have some peace of mind.

3. Liability Issues

A building impacted by fire, even during restoration, can be hazardous. Anyone who trespasses can be injured by weak structures, sharp edges, exposed wiring and broken gas lines. Other possible dangerous elements include ash, soot, and contaminated water. All these factors can harm interlopers, and as the property owner, you could be held legally liable for their injuries. Sufficient fencing not only reduces possible breaches, but it also demonstrates due diligence in preventing harm.

While boards, tarps and other sealing measures provide safety and protection throughout your property, there is always room for improvement. A security fence that surrounds your Puyallup, WA, business decreases the probability of intruders and all their inherent problems.

Key Differences Between Storm Damage and Flooding

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to flood damage, most businesses will need extra insurance to cover the damage.

The Significant Differences Between Storm Damage And Flooding

Business owners in Graham, WA, know the unexpected will eventually happen, which is why staying on top of insurance coverage is essential. When the next big storm hits, understanding what your unique policy covers ensures a smoother process. An important element of that is knowing the difference between flood damage and storm damage.

Storms vs Floods

While both may unleash excessive amounts of water, which often requires the help of a storm and water damage restoration professional, the source of the water and other factors determine the type of damage. The following are considered aftereffects of a storm and are typically covered:

• Torrential rains and thunderstorms
• High winds
• Tornadoes
• Ice, hail and snow

When it comes to flood damage, most businesses will need extra insurance to cover the damage. Flooding happens from:

• Inland rivers, lakes or other waterways overflowing
• Tidal waves and hurricanes
• Rapid and extreme rainwater accumulation
• Ice or snow suddenly melt
• Surface water runoff
• Landslides or mudslides

Dirty Nature of Floods

While any unexpected water may have contaminants, floodwaters are considered Category 3 water, also known as black water. This type is highly contaminated and may pose health risks. Depending on the source of the flood, it could be carrying sewage, organic matter, pesticides and other substances that require careful cleanup.

According to FEMA, it is considered a flood if two or more acres of land that is usually dry is partially or completely saturated or it affects more than two properties. Since the cleanup and restoration is often much more extreme, it is recommended that businesses in flood-prone areas get additional insurance coverage.

After the storm hits, it is not also easy to tell if you are dealing with storm or flood damage. Knowing a few basics of how they are categorized makes it easier to prepare for the cleanup process and helps the claims process be clearer.

5 Tips for Preventing Cigarette Fires at Home

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Whenever you smoke at home, there are certain factors to consider in order to prevent a cigarette fire.

5 Tips For Preventing Home Cigarette Fires

Cigarettes can be deadly in more ways than one. Between 2012 and 2016, the National Fire Protection Association reported that more than 18,000 residential fires started as the result of a cigarette fire.

When the weather becomes drier in Sumner, WA, it can create the perfect conditions for a blaze to easily start in a forgotten ashtray. With that said, there are several steps you can take to avoid having to call in a fire cleanup crew the next time you take a smoke break. Here are five to consider.

1. Smoke Outside

If you really want to prevent a cigarette fire at home, stay away from the house when you are smoking. Instead, choose a designated spot that is far enough away to minimize risks.

2. Make Sure Cigarettes Are Completely Out

To avoid an unnecessary ashtray fire, always be sure your butts are completely out before walking away. To be safe, sprinkle some water on the ashes.

3. Smoke When You Are Alert

If you take medication that makes you tired, avoid smoking when you take it. Likewise, make sure you are fully alert in general whenever you smoke so you do not accidentally drop your cigarette or fall asleep.

4. Stay Away From Medical Oxygen

When someone in your home has an oxygen tank, it is best to entirely avoid smoking anywhere nearby. Even when the oxygen is off, the tank can catch on fire or explode.

5. Never Smoke in Bed

No matter how tempting the comfort of your bed might be when smoking, do not do it! Even a small spark can be enough to ignite sheets, blankets and mattress.

Whenever you smoke at home, there are certain factors to consider in order to prevent a cigarette fire. Because smoking is usually a leisure activity that can occur in comfortable settings, you should be especially mindful of flammable areas like bedrooms and risk factors like your energy levels.

How To Repair Belongings After a Flood

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Before touching any electronics that have been in contact with water, make sure they are not plugged in to any outlets.

How To Repair Personal Effects After A Flood

When flooding occurs, it can damage your belongings. Whether the water in home is from a broken pipe, sewage backup, rain or another source, there are things you can do to repair your possessions.

Hire a Professional

A professional water damage restoration service can repair or replace many different types of items, including:

• Upholstered furniture
• Documents
• Photos
• Building materials
• Flooring

A water damage restoration service in Puyallup, WA, should also treat the area to prevent mold growth once the water has been removed.

Fabric

When fabric items, such as clothing or curtains, are damaged by water in home, it is best to take them to a dry cleaning service. They can help remove water stains, restoring your belongings to their original condition. Thicker fabrics, such as upholstery, may need to be treated by a professional restoration service.

Building Materials

Water can cause building materials, including drywall and wood, to deteriorate. After cleaning up flooding, check the area for signs of moisture or deterioration. If the flooding is from a broken pipe, make sure to thoroughly check the surrounding walls. Deteriorated building materials typically must be replaced.

Electronics

Before touching any electronics that have been in contact with water, make sure they are not plugged in to any outlets. If they are, turn off the power in the area first to avoid electrocution. Some electronics can be repaired by taking off battery covers and any other removable parts and allowing the water to drain out. It can also help to place devices such as laptops and mobile phones in a bowl of rice to absorb the moisture. If drying the item and replacing the batteries does not fix the device, an electronics repair shop may be able to help.

If water in home has damaged your belongings, you can fix them by hiring a professional or fixing items, such as fabric, building materials and electronics, at home.

3 Cleanup Processes for After a Business Property Fire

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO responded to this warehouse fire to find damages to structure and equipment. Our professionally trained fire technicians are trained in all a

3 Procedures For Cleaning Up After A Business Property Fire

When cleaning up after a fire at your Puyallup, WA, business, getting everything fresh and repaired can seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, your local fire restoration service can offer a number of solutions. From dry-cleaning for cloth items, to smoke odor removal, here are a few of the restoration techniques that your fire cleanup crew may use.

1. Options for Smoke Odor Removal

In many cases, it may be necessary to remove smoke odors from the property after a fire. Many professionals utilize an ozone machine for this process when cleaning the room itself. Items inside this area may be removed, cleaned, and placed in content storage until the damage to the building has been repaired.

2. Options for Cloth Items

For cloth items such as curtains, rugs, or clothing that may have been in the building at the time of the fire, dry-cleaning can be one possible solution for removing smoke damage. Other items may be washable in a cleaning solution.

3. Options for Solid Items

When it comes to content cleaning, it may be desirable to also wash items of a solid nature. These could be furniture pieces, electronics, or even office supplies. The method used will depend on the type of article. Electronic or mechanical devices should be serviced by a professional. Furniture, shelving or cabinet pieces can be washed with a cleaning solution. Some items may be freshened with a simple wipe down, while others may require dipping in the cleaner.

Fire restoration can involve several different cleaning techniques that vary with the damaged items. Dry-cleaning is often suitable for cloth articles, while dips or wiping solutions are used for solid pieces such as furniture. An ozone machine may help clear away smoke odor from the air. If you have any questions about the right method to clean a specific item, a professional can usually help.

How To Troubleshoot Your Commercial Sprinkler System

3/12/2022 (Permalink)

A broken irrigation system can wreak havoc on your landscape. You could end up with brown grass or a flooded building.

Troubleshooting A Commercial Sprinkler System

Once you bought your irrigation system for your commercial property, you may have stopped thinking about it. You figured that the sprinklers would run smoothly, and that you could focus on other aspects of your Sumner, WA, business.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

Irrigation problems can occur. Water could stop flowing to one part of your landscape, causing the bushes and grass to die. Malfunctioning sprinklers may even cause flooding that necessitates emergency restoration services. If your sprinklers do stop working, you can limit the water damage by fixing the problem right away. Here are some troubleshooting tips.

No Pressure

A zone failure occurs when one section of the sprinkler system no longer functions properly. Issues with any of the following could be a sign of zone failure:

• Solenoid
• Valve
• Wire
• Timer

The electrical impulse may be the source of the irrigation system breakdown. You can use a volt meter to test this impulse. Start by checking the wires operating the timer. Then move on to the solenoid.

It is not just electrical issues that cause failing zones. A tree root could also block the pipes in one area of the property. You may have to trim the tree or

kill the roots to solve this problem.

Sometimes, the entire sprinkler system malfunctions. If this happens, start by making sure all the valves are open. You should also use a wire locator to see if there are any cuts in the wires.

Low Pressure

If the water is flowing but the pressure is low, you should again check the solenoid. It could be loose or clogged by debris. The flow control valve may have also destroyed the diaphragm.

A broken irrigation system can wreak havoc on your landscape. You could end up with brown grass or a flooded building. Troubleshooting any issues immediately should limit the harm to your property.

3 Ways the SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team Can Help Your Business

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

When a major disaster strikes, you need a disaster recovery team you can trust. SERVPRO has the experience and training to provide professional.

3 Ways The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team Can Assist Your Company

The SERVPRO disaster recovery team is staffed with the best of the best of our restoration professionals. We prequalify and strategically place our large-loss specialists to handle any size disaster quickly and professionally. These are three of the ways our team can help your business.

1. Timely Mitigation

Our network of strategically placed storm response teams is on standby 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. The ability to mobilize 1,700 locally-owned franchises ensures that no disaster is too big for our team. All large losses are supervised by a commercial operations manager who makes sure all of our clients receive seamless communication and timely mitigation. SERVPRO professionals are Faster to Any Size Disaster.

2. Experience You Can Count On

Our disaster recovery team has worked with the hospitality industry, universities, municipalities, property managers and the Pentagon. We are ready to help whether you are recovering from a hurricane, tornado, flood or blizzard. Our professionals have responded to major disasters across the country, including the California wildfires, major hurricanes, widespread flooding events, severe winter weather events and more. Our team is prepared to handle unpredictable and rapidly changing conditions.

3. National Reach With Local Expertise

The partnership between our Commercial Large Loss Division and 1,700 local franchises provides our team with the resources of a big company and the expertise of a locally owned franchise in Puyallup, WA. Our locally owned storm damage mitigation experts are the preferred vendor of many insurance companies and are prepared to utilize local partnerships with vendors and insurance professionals to best serve our clients.

When a major disaster strikes you need a disaster recovery team you can rely on. SERVPRO has the experience, resources and training to provide fast, professional mitigation services no matter what size, type or severity of disaster you are dealing with. Our team is standing by to make it “Like it never even happened.”

How To Save Books and Documents From Water Damage

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Document restoration is a delicate process, but SERVPRO professionals, have the training and tools necessary to do the job well.

How To Prevent Water Damage To Books And Documents

When your home has been hit by flooding or other water damage, your family documents, treasured diaries, and other important books and papers are at serious risk. The moisture and humidity are certain to do serious harm. What can you do to prevent further damage? How should you handle document restoration?

Identify the Extent of the Damage

The first step is to identify the type of damage your papers, documents, and books have suffered. For the best treatment results, you need to identify how much water you'll be dealing with:

• High Moisture Content: High humidity or a light sprinkling of water through an open window could cause pages to curl or become discolored. Without attention, mold could develop in affected areas.
•  Absorbed Water: A leaky window near a bookshelf or a stream of water from an upstairs room into a lower study could expose books and documents to damage within the very fibers of the papers.
• Submerged Items: Flooding is a cause of serious damages. Water gets between all the pages and works its way through entire storage boxes or file cabinets. In some cases, writing becomes so blurred that documents are no longer readable.

Contact a Professional

As soon as you can safely do so, contact a professional to dry and restore important documents and treasured papers. SERVPRO provides document restoration within their own facilities. By handling document drying internally, costs can be kept lower, and quality can be monitored directly.

Inventory Affected Books and Documents

While you wait for drying and restoration professionals to arrive, resist the urge to move papers around. When documents are wet, they are at their most fragile state. In some cases, those papers may have been exposed to toxic materials. Instead of moving books and documents, make a list of the documents that have been affected (to the best of your ability without moving them.) It's helpful to know if there are birth certificates, family histories, or financial records in the stack.

Document restoration is a delicate process, but SERVPRO professionals in Auburn, WA, have the training and tools necessary to do the job well. The best time to contact them is before further damages are done.

The 3 Most Common Home Fire Causes

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Cooking, heating, and smoking are three common fire causes.

The Three Most Common Causes Of House Fires

The most common causes of home fires can be prevented with basic fire safety measures and equipment. Find out more about three common fire causes to make more informed home fire safety decisions.

1. Cooking

Cooking often involves a combination of hot stoves or ovens, open fire, and flammable substances, such as animal or vegetable oils or grease.

It is important to monitor food while cooking. If you are cooking something that takes a long time, periodically check in on the progress to prevent burning. Make sure that smoke detectors in this part of a home are functional. A fire extinguisher can promote kitchen safety, but may also cause grease fires to spread. Keep baking soda and salt near the stove to smother these types of fires before covering flames with a metal lid or another pot.

2. Heating

Malfunctioning furnaces or the improper use of space heaters are common causes of heating fires. Schedule regular furnace inspections and perform periodic maintenance. Only operate a space heater on a hard, non-flammable surface while attended and at a safe distance from combustible materials.

3. Smoking

Smoking is one of the most preventable causes of a home fire. Avoid smoking in bedrooms or after taking medication that may cause drowsiness. Use stable ashtrays when smoking indoors and ensure that cigarettes are completely extinguished before leaving the room. It is safest to smoke outside and provide a wind-proof disposal solution, such as a bucket filled with sand.

Cooking, heating, and smoking are three common fire causes. A homeowner may be able to prevent or limit the damage resulting from a home fire by taking precautionary measures and installing and testing fire safety equipment such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. A damage restoration and fire cleaning service can help if a fire breaks out for any reason at a residence in Puyallup, WA.

3 Strategies for Maintaining a Commercial Roof

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a team of licensed water damage restoration professionals who are ready to restore your home or business after storm damage at any time.

3 Ways To Keep A Commercial Roof In Good Shape

If high winds, torrential rainstorms and other bad weather events impact Puyallup, WA, will your commercial building be ready to withstand roof damage? Roofing materials can be vulnerable to such issues and result in leaks and flooding that could seriously harm your building’s interior. However, there are a few strategies you can use to ensure that your roof is protected.

1. Order an Annual Inspection

Having your commercial roof inspected annually can uncover flaws and problems that might grow worse during a bad weather. For example, if your building’s roof is missing some of its tiles, rain and melting snow could weaken these areas and cause leaks. A thorough inspection by a roofing professional can shed some light on the state of your roof. If you suspect your roof is leaking from a recent storm, it is wise to call in a repair company right away, as leaks can damage drywall, insulation and wiring in your building’s attic.

2. Consider a Roofing Refit

If you are concerned about your roof sustaining wind damage, you may want to consider having it refitted with tougher materials. Metal, synthetic rubber and treated asphalt roofs are all durable options that can last 20 years or more. A roof rebuild can help guard your business against all different kinds of bad weather all year round. Your local roofing contractor or a storm damage and flood remediation service can advise you on which material is best suited for your building.

3. Waterproof Your Existing Roof

If you cannot fit the cost of a new roof into your budget, then consider having your existing roof treated with a waterproof material. Many types of roof damage occur during heavy rains, when tiles, flashing and other roofing materials are harmed or weakened by running or pooled water. Having your commercial roof waterproofed can prevent these issues before they begin.

Roof damage can be costly for you as a Puyallup, WA, business owner. Protecting your building’s roof with regular inspections and other types of preventative maintenance might be the first, best defense in keeping it in good shape.

Is Commercial Smoke Damage Covered by Insurance?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Luckily, the average commercial fire insurance policy takes into consideration the rapid degradation that results from smoke damage.

Is Insurance Coverage For Commercial Smoke Damage Available?

After being exposed to smoke damage from a commercial fire in Puyallup, WA, your facility may feel like it will never be the same again. Soot damage and heavy smoke odors may permeate your once functional space. Find answers to some of the most commonly asked-questions about cleaning up after a commercial fire.

Why is Smoke so Damaging?

While a commercial fire is a probable concern for the average businessowner, many may fail to recognize smoke as one of the fire’s most destructive results. Smoke can be very hazardous to these commonplace objects:

• Electronics
  
• Furniture
  
• Standard surfaces

Smoke has a polarizing charge which can actually impact the magnetism of most electronic devices. Smoke contains particles made of solids, liquids and gasses. This means that when it settles it can permeate and attach to objects it lands on. That is why smoke tends to leave an ashy film on everything it touches. This sooty film is highly acidic. Soot damage may impact the rate at which objects decay causing them to break or malfunction much sooner than expected.

Does Insurance Cover Loss From Fire Smoke?

Luckily, the average commercial fire insurance policy takes into consideration the rapid degradation that results from smoke damage. The only way to know if your policy covers damage caused by smoke is to check with the insurance company directly. Some plans even account for damage received as a result of a fire at an adjacent business.

Can a Commercial Business Be Fully Restored After Exposure to Smoke?

Although the effects of smoke vary by case, fire restoration professionals in Puyallup, WA should be able to evaluate damages and begin the smoke cleaning process. Electronics, photographs, upholstery and more can often be returned to their original state. Look for a cleanup operation that offers key services like odor removal and surface restoration.

As you cope with the consequences of a commercial fire, turn to a professional to safely restore your business. Addressing smoke damage is the first step to achieving total restoration.

Do You Know When To Flush Your Home’s Water Heating System?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

To keep your water heating system functioning properly, you must occasionally flush it.

Do You Know When Your Home's Water Heating System Needs To Be Flushed?

Like most residents of Sumner, WA, you use hot water inside your home every day. After all, not only do you enjoy rinsing off in a soothing shower, but you also must keep dishes, clothing and other items clean. To keep your home’s water heating system in tip-top shape, you must occasionally flush your water heater.

Signs of Wear and Tear

When the water heating system in your home is functioning properly, you probably don’t think much about it. If there is a problem, though, the heater can be impossible to ignore. If you notice any of the following, your unit may need some work:

• Strange noises
  
• Leaks
  
• Rust
  
• Deposit buildup
  
• Failure to heat water

A Timetable for Flushing

To keep your water heating system functioning properly, you must occasionally flush it. While every system is different, you must think about usage to know when a water heater flush is appropriate. Use the following timetable as a general guideline:

• For households with one or two members, flush the system approximately once per year.
  
• For households with three to five members, flush the system approximately every eight months.
  
• For households with six or more members, flush the system approximately every six months.

Special Considerations

The above guidelines are effective for most homes in Sumner, WA. Occasionally, however, certain factors require homeowners to inspect and service water heating systems more frequently. If you use well water or have high levels of sedimentation in your water supply, you probably should inspect your home’s water heating system every two or three months to ensure you do not develop a water leak. If you do, you may need to contract with a reputable water restoration service to mitigate damage to your basement and other areas.

With a bit of work, you can decrease your chances of having a problem with your water heater. With regular inspections and flushing, you ensure your home’s water heating system remains in excellent shape.

Using Bread To Understand Mold

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

All mold needs an organic food source, and most molds have favorites.

Understanding Mold Through The Use of Bread

You have many responsibilities for maintaining your home in Graham, WA, and staying mold-free is an important one. Reviewing your experience with bread mold is a great way to understand the impact of mold in your home. Why does mold grow on bread?

1. Mold spores are everywhere.

Most people store their bread in a plastic bag, yet mold will still grow thanks to the fact that spores are lightweight and travel through the air. The little bit of exposure your bread gets from opening the bag is enough to allow spore-containing air to enter. This is similar to the way mold spores get in your home: traveling on the air and entering through doors, windows and vents.

2. Mold grows in a moist environment.

You don’t see croutons covered in mold and that’s because there is not enough moisture. People love bread when it is soft and moist, and that moisture is exactly what fungus growth needs to thrive. That’s why controlling relative humidity and repairing water leaks are both important jobs to prevent mold growth in the home.

3. Mold needs a food source.

All mold needs an organic food source, and most molds have favorites. When it comes to bread mold, there are certain varieties that tend to colonize on bread. This is also true for homes, since most building materials are made from cellulose-based materials, and the molds that prefer that food source tend to colonize there.

Can’t You Just Change the Temperature?

While most molds prefer a warmer temperature, many varieties can handle a cooler environment, which is why you find fridge mold. You can prevent mold by freezing bread, but you can’t freeze your home.

With the lessons learned from bread mold, you can see that moisture control is the key to preventing household mold problems. If you already have mold, it’s important to get help fast since mold multiplies rapidly. Expert mold remediators are knowledgeable and use a variety of techniques to help prevent the further spread of mold during the clean-up process.