From Smoke to Structural: The 6 Types of Fire Damage Every Homeowner Needs to Know About

4/12/2023 (Permalink)

Understanding the different types of fire damage is important to better understand the fire situation.

Fire damage can be a devastating experience for any homeowner. Understanding the different types of fire damage can help you better assess the situation and know what steps to take to restore your home. In this article, we'll discuss the six types of fire damage homeowners should know about.

Smoke Damage

Smoke damage is the most common type of fire damage. It occurs when smoke particles and soot settle on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and furniture. Smoke damage can cause discoloration, staining, and a strong odor that can be difficult to remove.

Water Damage

When firefighters extinguish a fire, they use water to put out the flames. This can cause water damage to your home, including warped floors, mold growth, and damaged ceilings and walls. It's important to address water damage immediately to prevent further damage and mold growth.

Structural Damage

Structural damage occurs when the fire damages the structural integrity of your home. This can include weakened support beams, damaged roof trusses, and compromised walls. Structural damage can make your home unsafe to live in and requires immediate attention from a professional.

Heat Damage

Heat damage occurs when the intense heat of the fire causes materials to warp, melt, or even combust. This can include damage to appliances, electronics, and plastics. Heat damage can be difficult to repair and may require replacement of the affected materials.

Chemical Damage

Chemical damage occurs when chemicals used to extinguish the fire damage your home. This can include damage to carpets, flooring, and furniture. It's important to clean up any chemical residue as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Fire Damage to Personal Belongings

Fire damage can also extend to personal belongings such as clothing, jewelry, and furniture. Smoke and water damage can cause discoloration, staining, and other types of damage. It's important to document any damaged items for insurance purposes and consider hiring a professional restoration service to restore your belongings.

In conclusion, understanding the different types of fire damage can help you better assess the situation and take the necessary steps to restore your home. If you experience fire damage, it's important to contact your insurance company immediately and document any damage for insurance purposes. Additionally, it's crucial to hire a professional restoration service to handle the cleanup and restoration process to ensure your home is safe and habitable. By taking these steps, you can begin the process of restoring your home and moving forward from the devastating effects of fire damage.

Why is my water heater leaking?

3/10/2023 (Permalink)

Call a professional for your water heater repairs.

Leaking water heaters are a common occurrence. Even if you have your water heater regularly serviced, it can still develop issues over time that cause it to leak. There are several different causes of leaking water heaters, but the most common ones include:

• A cracked or broken tank can cause water to leak through the floor;. This is a major problem that requires immediate attention because it could lead to extensive damage if not repaired quickly. A crack in a tank can also allow corrosion from minerals that build up in tap water into your appliance's internal components.
• Pipes can fracture or leak due to the corrosive effects of minerals in tap water over time. If left unchecked, these leaks will continue until they become severe enough for you to notice them visibly spilling onto your flooring surface. Water damage from even small leaks can be costly because it leads over time to more serious problems such as mold growth.

Leaking water heaters are a common occurrence.

Leaking water heaters are a common occurrence. In fact, they're the most common cause of water damage in the home.

Water heaters can leak from their tanks, pipes or connections. A small amount of leakage won't cause major damage, but it's still important to keep an eye out for signs that your water heater needs repair or replacement before it causes significant damage to your home and possessions.

Water heater repair can be costly.

The average cost of a water heater repair is $300-$500, but the damage can be much more expensive. If you have to replace your water heater, it could cost around $1,000.

There are many different types of water heaters available including electric and gas models; tankless and conventional storage tank heaters, high efficiency or standard efficiency models, condensing or non-condensing boilers (or both).

Water heaters Lifespan.

Did you know that water heaters have an average lifespan of 10-15 years? If your water heater is older than that, it's important to get it checked out. A leaking or malfunctioning appliance can cause serious damage if not addressed in a timely manner.

How do I check the age of my water heater? The easiest way to find out how old your existing unit is is by looking at its serial number. This information can be found on the outside of the tank or underneath it where there are four large bolts holding it down.

Leaking from corroded Pipes.

If you notice your water heater leaking, it's possible that corrosion is the culprit. Water heaters are made of metal and as such they can be vulnerable to corrosion from minerals in tap water over time. The corrosive effects of these minerals can cause pipes and tanks to crack or break, which leads to leaks when you turn on your faucet.

The best way to prevent this issue is by installing an anti-scale system in your home's plumbing system. This will help reduce the amount of scale buildup inside your pipes so that they don't corrode as quickly as they would otherwise (and thus reduce the risk of leaks).

Broken Tank can cause water damage

Cracked or broken water heaters can cause water to leak through the floor. A damaged tank can result in a variety of problems. Water leaking out of the bottom of your heater when it's full and pressurized. An increase in energy costs because you have to run your heater longer than usual to get warm water for showers and other household activities. If there is too much pressure buildup inside of your tank, it could burst under pressure from either high heat or cold temperatures outside (or both).

Call a Professional.

If you have a water heater that's leaking, it's important to call a professional repair technician as soon as possible. A trained technician can fix the problem quickly and efficiently, saving you time and money. They'll also be able to tell you how to prevent similar problems from happening in the future so that your water heater lasts longer.

If left untreated, small leaks can lead to large amounts of damage and even more costly repairs down the road. Give SERVPRO a call today!

Can hardwood be restored after a Water Loss.

2/13/2023 (Permalink)

If your home suffers from a water loss, we are here to help!

Water damage to hardwood floors is not only common, but can be devastating. Water will destroy the finish and the structure of your floor unless you take action immediately.

Water damage to wood floors can be caused by many things, plumbing leaks, overflowing water heaters, broken washing machines and dishwashers, overflowing toilets or sinks. Regardless of how it happened, there are steps you can take right now to save your hardwood floor from destruction.

Water Damage to Your Hardwood Floor

The damage water can cause to your hardwood floors is severe. Water damage will cause swelling, warping and cracking of the wood, as well as splitting.

Water damage can be caused by leaks, floods and overflows in a home or building. If you have water damage that needs repair, contact an expert today so they can determine how best to restore the condition of your flooring back to normal.

Causes of Water Damage to Wood Floor

There are a variety of causes that may result in water damage to your hardwood floors. These can include a leaky pipe, a burst pipe, or even broken appliances like washing machines or dishwashers. Storms can also cause water damage, if they're severe enough and leave standing water on your floor, this can cause secondary damages to your floor.

What to Do When Water Damage Strikes

If you’re dealing with a wet floor, the first thing to do is call a professional. They can help you determine if it's salvageable and what kind of repairs will be needed. Once they've arrived on the scene, remove all wet items from the area and start drying things out as much as possible before they set in place (like rugs). This will make it easier for them to dry out your wood flooring quickly and prevent secondary damage in your home.

Use air movers or dehumidifiers, if necessary, to remove moisture from the air, then use fans around the perimeter of affected areas so that warm air can circulate through them more effectively. Do not use hairdryers or other heat sources near damaged hardwood floors until they're completely dry.

How to Save Water Damaged Floors

There are several steps you can take to minimize the damage and help your floor dry quickly. Remove excess water as soon as possible. Use a wet/dry vacuum, if necessary, this will get rid of most of the moisture. If the wood is still wet after using a dehumidifier, use fans to dry it completely (this may take up to 48 hours). Save time by using hardwood floor drying kits or machines that have been specifically designed for this purpose.

The sooner you take action, the more likely it is that your damaged floor can be saved. Waiting too long can lead to irreparable damage and a need for replacement, so don't wait any longer than is absolutely necessary!

When you are in need of a restoration company, give SERVPRO of Town & Country a call at the first sign of water damage to your hardwood floors. 

Benefits of Regular House Plumbing Inspections

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Fix plumbing leaks quickly

If you live in a home with an older plumbing system, it's important to have regular inspections. I'm sure you've heard of the adage "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." This couldn't be truer when it comes to house plumbing systems. House plumbing systems are prone to leaks, cracks, and other problems that can cause serious damage if left unchecked. By getting your plumbing system inspected regularly, you'll be able to spot these problems before they become too expensive or dangerous. In this article we'll explore exactly why it's so important for homeowners to get their plumbing inspected on a regular basis so that they can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their home's foundation is safe from major issues like floods and burst pipes!

1. Spot leaks, cracks, and other problems early on

When you have your plumbing inspected every few years, your plumber will be able to spot potential problems early on. By catching a possible leak or crack before it becomes a major problem, you can save yourself both time and money. If you have an emergency that requires immediate attention, it's much better to find out about the problem before it gets out of hand.

If there are any issues with your plumbing system, they'll likely show up in the inspection report, so you know what needs fixing or replacing. 

2. Save on energy bills

Part of the reason you should have your plumbing inspected regularly is that they can help you save money. Why? Well, regular inspections will reveal leaks that are wasting energy and water. In addition to this, they'll also show problems with your system that could result in higher energy bills and higher water bills. Inspections are a great way to get valuable information about how you can improve your home's performance, so we highly recommend them!

3. Homeowners can significantly on their monthly water bill.

The average American family spends great sums each year on water bills, which add up over time. In fact, it’s estimated that homeowners can save up to $70 per month on their water bill by having their pipes checked by a professional plumbing inspector.

Maintaining your plumbing system can help you avoid the costs of repairing large leaks, which can cause mold and mildew in your home, as well as flooding and frozen pipes during colder months. Many people are surprised when they find out how easy it is to keep their systems functioning properly!

4. Avoid costly plumbing repairs

• Regular plumbing inspections are a good way to prevent costly repairs. Plumbing systems can be expensive to fix, and they often need repairs or replacement every few years. If you don’t have regular plumbing inspections, you may end up having to replace your entire system just because of a single issue that could have been prevented with regular maintenance.
• A common problem with plumbing is leaks. Leaking faucets and toilets can waste hundreds of gallons of water each month. 

5. Prevent small issues from becoming major issues

Regular plumbing inspections are the best way to prevent small issues from becoming major problems. For example, a small leak can cause mold and mildew to grow on the walls of your home, while an improperly installed water heater can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. The sooner you address these issues, the less expensive they will be to repair or replace!

6. Better water quality

When you get your plumbing system inspected regularly, you'll have the peace of mind that your plumbing system is in good condition. Your plumber will be able to spot problems before they become big issues and will be able to fix them before they cause damage or disruption to your household. This means that if a problem does arise, it can be dealt with quickly and easily, saving time and money.

7. When you get your plumbing system inspected regularly, you'll have the peace of mind that your plumbing system is in good condition.

This can help you sleep better at night knowing that:

• Your plumbing system is safe for use by your family and friends who visit.
• You aren't going to be surprised by a small leak or large problem with the plumbing that could lead to water damage or home damage.
• All the components are working properly and not causing any problems for other systems in your house like heating/cooling systems or doors opening/closing correctly.

The plumbing system in your Houston, TX home is a major part of your home. It is important to have it inspected regularly so you can identify any potential problems before they become an issue. When the experts at SERVPRO of Town & Country inspect your plumbing, they will make sure everything is running smoothly and efficiently. From faucets to toilets, showers, sinks, and drains.

The Most Common Fire Damage Questions And Answers

12/9/2022 (Permalink)

Fire restoration experts in Houston, TX

When you're dealing with fire damage, one of the most important things to remember is that there are several steps involved in cleaning, repairing, and restoring your home or business. Each step has its own benefits as well as drawbacks, so it's important to weigh out all your options before making any repairs.

How do fires start?

Fires can be caused by many things, including faulty electrical wiring. Fires can also be started by overloaded electrical circuits or a downed power line. A fire can even start when items such as paper, wood and clothing catch on fire.

What are the three classes of a fire?

There are three classes of fires:

• Class A: These are common fires, such as wood and paper. They can be extinguished with water.
• Class B: Examples include flammable liquids like gasoline, diesel fuel or oil. This type of fire requires a dry chemical extinguisher to put out the flames.
• Class C: Electrical fires often involve equipment that generates or uses electricity. When these types of fires occur, it's very important to turn off power at its source before you attempt to fight them by using a properly rated fire extinguisher filled with carbon dioxide gas (CO2).

How does smoke affect my belongings?

Smoke can cause discoloration and damage to your belongings. For example, smoke can stain walls, upholstery, and other surfaces. If the smoke has a strong odor after a fire, it may permeate your clothes and other items in your home.

You’ll need to thoroughly clean all soiled or stained items before you wash them with detergent and water (in most cases). The best way to remove odors is by using an ozone generator machine that produces ozone gas which will oxidize the molecules of the smell producing chemicals into non-odor compounds that are much less pungent than those emitted by the original source material. 

What does cleaning and repairing my home from fire damage usually involve?

First, the smoke and soot must be removed from the home. Next, any remaining fire damage will need to be removed from your home. The third step is repairing the damage caused by the fire. Finally, you'll need to clean your home using professional cleaning services.

What if I need restoration services for my business, not just my home?

You’re probably aware that smoke damage can be particularly difficult to clean up, especially if it comes from a major fire. In fact, most fire and smoke restoration companies are trained in everything from cleaning out the ducts in your home to removing smoke odors that have permeated walls and curtains. However, if you need help restoring your business after a disaster or accidental fire, look for a company with extensive experience working with commercial properties.

Consider how much damage has been done during assessing the situation before calling any restoration service. If it appears as though there won’t be any significant structural repairs needed at this point—and it would make more sense to focus on cosmetic issues like replacing drywall or carpeting—consider hiring a contractor instead of an actual restoration company because they will likely be able to provide better estimates for these types of services compared to a professional who specializes in cleanup only (which may also cost less).

There are several things to consider when dealing with fire damage.

First, it's important to know that fire damage can happen to anyone, whether you live in an apartment or a mansion. Fires can be caused by many different things, including space heaters, candles, and faulty electrical wiring. If you have a fire in your home or business, it's important to know what to do so that you can quickly contain the flames and restore your property as soon as possible.

Conclusion

The best thing you can do for yourself and your family is to have a fire escape plan in place. You may never need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad that you planned. If your home or business ever suffers from fire damage, remember these tips: keep track of all receipts so that you can make an insurance claim; get a cleaning crew if possible; and don’t forget about restoration services!

What To Do If Your Basement Floods?

11/9/2022 (Permalink)

If your basement is flooded you should call SERVPRO of Town and Country.

How Do You Handle a Flooded Basement?

If you've ever had a basement flood, you know how stressful it can be. That's why it's important to understand what to do if your basement floods and who to contact for help. A flooded basement is often caused by more than just one factor, which means that there are several different things you should consider doing to minimize damage and prevent future flooding. In this blog post we'll discuss several different scenarios that lead to flooding (and what could have prevented them), as well as steps that homeowners can take right away after a flood occurs to minimize damage and prevent further flooding.

Steps To Reduce Damage If Your Basement Has Flooded

If your basement has flooded, there are several steps you should take right away to minimize damage.

• Keep a close eye on the water level. Make sure it doesn’t rise too high or get into any other part of your home.
• Call a plumber or water damage restoration specialist as soon as possible after a flood to ensure that no additional damage occurs.
• If you have a sump pump, make sure it is working properly and doesn't need to be replaced or repaired before the next major rain event happens in your area.

Factors That Can Contribute To a Basement Flood

One of the most common is a sump pump failure, which occurs when the sump pump is not installed properly or fails when needed most. Sump pumps are also responsible for removing water from your home’s foundation and moving it outside of your house into a designated drainage system. However, if you have an older model, it may not be able to handle large amounts of rainfall in one go and could cause problems for homeowners in high-risk areas like hurricanes.

Sump pumps need to be checked regularly for proper operation—a clogged filter or worn impeller (the part that pulls water up into the discharge pipe) are just two examples of common causes for premature failure in this type of equipment. Regular inspections will also help you identify any potential issues before they become major problems that damage your home's foundation or flood your basement again!

Call a Plumber or Water Damage Restoration Specialist

As soon as possible after a flood, you should call a plumber or water damage restoration specialist to ensure that no additional damage occurs. Mold can quickly grow in your home if left untreated it can be very dangerous.

If you find yourself in need of assistance with a water problem, SERVPRO of Town and Country is here to help. We have the training, equipment, and expertise to handle any type of water damage. Our staff will be able to quickly get the work done so that you can get back to normal life as soon as possible.

For more information on what we do or if you need help with your insurance claim, contact us today at (713) 461-2700. We are available 24/7 so don’t hesitate—contact us today!

How Do Fire Sprinklers Work During a Fire?

10/16/2022 (Permalink)

Sprinkler systems are composed of several different components, including the pipes, sprinkler heads and alarm valves.

How Do Fire Sprinklers Operate in the Event of a Fire?

Sprinklers are an important part of any fire suppression system. They’re designed to suppress fires in the early stages, before they have a chance to spread and cause significant damage. Sprinkler systems are composed of several different components, including the pipes, sprinkler heads and alarm valves. When the heat of a fire reaches a certain level, it ignites the fire sprinkler head mounted on the ceiling or wall. This causes water to spray out in all directions and extinguish most small fires before they can become large ones.

Fire sprinklers are a vital part of preventing significant damage to commercial and industrial buildings.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requires that all new construction and major renovations comply with NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems. To prevent the spread of fire, sprinklers are required in certain areas of buildings based on their construction type and occupancy classification.

Sprinklers can save lives and property when they're properly installed and maintained. They're most effective when used in combination with other fire protection systems such as smoke alarms (smoke detectors), carbon monoxide alarms (CO detectors), automatic water mist extinguishers, standpipe systems, hose cabinets or deluge systems—or any combination thereof—to protect against multiple hazards in your building's specific type of occupancy.

Sprinklers are so effective and reliable that they’re required by the National Fire Protection Association to be installed in most commercial buildings. This is because sprinklers have been proven to reduce fire damage and end up saving businesses money over time.

Sprinkler systems are composed of several different components, including the pipes, sprinkler heads and alarm valves.

When someone pulls the fire alarm in an office or hotel, it activates a valve that opens water to all the sprinkler heads in that area. The water flowing from these sprinklers can range anywhere between 30-50 gallons per minute. This keeps an area free from smoke and flames until firefighters arrive on scene.

When the heat of a fire reaches a certain level, it ignites the fire sprinkler head mounted on the ceiling or wall.

A fire sprinkler system is made up of several parts. The most important part is the fire sprinkler head, which is mounted on the ceiling or wall.

When a fire occurs, it heats up until it reaches a certain temperature, at which point the sprinkler head opens and releases water onto the flames. This causes them to extinguish before they can spread throughout your home or business.

Sprinklers are an important way to make sure your building is protected from fire. They’re easy to install, maintain and operate, so you can rest assured that this system will work when it counts most.

Can Fire-Damaged Contents Be Cleaned?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire, there is a lot of stuff that needs to be cleaned.

Content Cleaning Methods

A fire can destroy many contents, but it may be possible to clean items that are only exposed to smoke, ash, and soot. Damage mitigation professionals provide a variety of content cleaning methods. These methods range from dry-cleaning to foam and wet cleaning. Learn more about the best treatments for different types of items.

Non-Porous Contents

Hard, non-porous items and surfaces can stand up to heavy-duty cleaning processes. Some of the most effective methods include:

• Abrasion or blasting
• Immersion
• Ultrasonic waves
  
  

Immersion and ultrasonic waves are often combined for maximum effect. These methods work best on smaller items that can be easily dipped in a bath of cleaning solution and treated with high-pressure waves. Larger items or surfaces may call for wet cleaning.

Porous Contents

Porous items absorb moisture and may not be good candidates for immersion or wet cleaning. The following methods are recommended for these materials:

• Dry-cleaning
• Spraying
• Wiping
  
  

Restoration professionals use specialized methods and solutions that may be more effective than consumer-grade treatments. Ask an expert which method is best suited to a particular item.

Delicate Contents

Care must be taken not to damage delicate contents. Books and documents call for different cleaning methods than treatments for textiles or upholstery. The best approaches for cleaning delicate materials may include:

• Chemical sponges
• Foam
• HEPA vacuums
• Immersion
  
  

Books and documents may benefit from being wiped with chemical sponges and carefully cleaned with a HEPA vacuum. Upholstery and furniture are ideal candidates for foam cleaning. Ceramics and glass should be able to withstand immersion.

These are all of the major content cleaning methods used by fire damage mitigation professionals. A service may also provide content storage until on-site restoration is complete. Rely on expert recommendations if you are unsure whether dry-cleaning or another method is the best approach for damaged items after a fire at a residence in Bunker Hill Village,TX.

What Mold in Air Ducts Could Mean for Commercial Buildings

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

Mold in air ducts in Houston, TX.

The Potential Impact of Mold in Air Ducts for Commercial Buildings

Mold frequently grows on construction materials for commercial buildings in Houston, TX. It thrives in hidden, dark spaces with favorable humidity levels and hosts that provide it the nutrients it needs. Mold spores will settle and develop into colonies in any areas that provide these conditions. Hiring an HVAC cleaning service at least twice a year is recommended for commercial buildings. It is common to find fungus growing inside of HVAC systems on:

• AC evaporator coils
• The drip pan
• Inside air ducts
  
  

If you find mold around your commercial property, it is likely there is mold inside of your HVAC system as well. Here's what mold in the HVAC system could mean for your commercial building:

Mold Spores Will Circulate When the HVAC System Turns On

Mold can be found feeding off the dust in your HVAC system. This is because air ducts provide a suitable environment for fungus to thrive. This mold will release mold spores that circulate into every room of a commercial building when the HVAC system turns on. This makes them more likely to attach themselves to the natural construction materials of the building. Regular HVAC cleaning will clear your air conditioning system of dust, preventing mold growth. Cleaning vents frequently will also aid in mold prevention.

Mold in Your Air Ducts Will Cause Unpleasant Smells

A key indicator of mold being circulated through the building is an unpleasant, musky smell. When mold spores are circulated through air vents it makes them more likely to grow on other materials that provide the right nutrients, including water damaged wood or drywall. The smell coming from these materials is often described as humid and earthy.

Mold spores only take about 48-72 hours to develop into colonies. If you have found mold on your property, it is crucial to address it right away by calling an HVAC cleaning service. This will improve the overall air quality in your building and prevent mold damage.

What Is a Category Three Water Damage?

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Water that is contaminated with feces or raw sewage, such as an overflow from a toilet

Which Water Damage Situations Fit Into This Category

Category 3 water damage is known as black water. This type of water damage can contain bacteria, fungi and unsanitary agents, such as raw sewage. Examples of this type of damage include seawater, storm surge, overflow from streams and rivers, standing water and ground surface water. This type of water damage usually requires the assistance of professionals, so it is important to recognize which water damage situations fit into this category.

Black Water Examples
Several events can lead to water being classified as category 3. You may need to employ the services of a professional water mitigation company in Hilshire Village,TX when you have certain types of damage:

• Water that is contaminated with feces or raw sewage, such as an overflow from a toilet or sewer backup
• Standing water that has been standing long enough to become stagnant
• Floodwater from oceans, streams, rivers, storm surge, or groundwater

What To Do
The steps you should take depend on the cause of your problem. If you have a clogged or overflowing toilet, do not run any of the toilets in your building until the clog has been identified and removed. If you are experiencing a sewage backup, close all of your drain openings with stoppers or plugs to prevent further backup issues and schedule sewage cleanup services.
Close off contaminated areas to prevent contaminants from being spread around your facility on the shoes and clothing of people passing through the area. If you must enter the contaminated area, wear protective gear and remove it before you pass through the rest of your building. Do not move anything from the contaminated area into the rest of your building until you have had a chance to clean and sanitize it.
Dealing with a black water situation is best left a professional restoration service. Properly dealing with the issue can avoid cross-contamination and further damage to your facility.

The Hows and Whys of Document Restoration

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

When documents are affected by water damage, always call in a team of professionals that are Here to Help

The Hows and Whys of Document Restoration

A big storm, a building fire or a flood can do a number on just about everything a business owns. Knowing how to deal with water removal, mold abatement, smoke odors, and other issues is a must for a professional disaster mitigation franchise. The process of document restoration is one area that requires expertise, training, and the right equipment. With the proper procedures the following materials can be salvaged in many situations:

• Photographs and films
• Paper documents
• Maps and blueprints
• Books and magazines
• Parchment
  
  

Successful restoration involves state-of-the-art technology and experienced technicians. A fast response to damaged documents increases the chance of success.

Why Document Restoration Is Needed

Any major upheaval to a business in Spring Valley,TX, could result in damaged documents. A flood could bring in dirty water that coats papers and photographs with contaminated bacteria and chemicals. A fire could result in soot damage to materials. To prevent these important, historic or valuable materials from being lost forever, a meticulous restoration process can save them. With advanced document drying and cleaning techniques, these materials can still be retained in the company archives and be accessible to employees. SERVPRO technicians know how important it is to recover these valuable documents.

How Restoration Is Accomplished

HIPPA master-certified technicians use the latest technology to restore documents. Vacuum freeze-drying methods and gamma irradiation technology are two options to dry, clean and sterilize paper and parchment. Technicians use many of the same methods employed by the Library of Congress and the National Archive and Records Administration. SERVPRO provides full-service document restoration. These measures, in addition to drying, include cleaning and disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorizing. The digital process uses a computerized inventory system that converts paper and photos to digital, thereby increasing storage, ease of access, and durability of materials. When documents are affected by water damage, always call in a team of professionals that are Here to Help.

How To Clean Up a Water Heater Leak

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

A leaking water heater should be handled with care

How to Fix a Leak in a Water Heater

Are you having trouble getting enough hot water? Do you notice strange sounds coming from the tank? Maybe you're seeing puddles or drips that haven't occurred before? These are signs of a leaking water heater. You deserve a warm shower without water damage. With that in mind, residents in Houston, TX, should act swiftly to remedy the issue. Here are five steps to assist in alleviating your water heating needs.

1. Seek Professional Advice
Where do you start? A water restoration company understands the importance of remediation and repair. Contact a reputable business within your area, asking for immediate arrival. They have equipment and experience, making the process smoother and more efficient.

2. Turn Off the Electricity
Your failed water heater is a hazard for you and the family. Therefore, as you wait for the professionals, protect your home and everyone in it by shutting off the electrical circuit to that zone.

3. Request Testing
Begin by determining the extent of property damage. This is important in ensuring that future complications don't arise. The crew can assess if the moisture invaded the foundation or the drywall, offering a complete picture of your replacement needs. They can also work on the leaking water heater, figuring out why the device broke. If possible, they can fix it. If they can't, they'll arrange for a new unit to be installed.

4. Remove Water
Lingering liquid can create a musty odor or damage walls. This fluid needs extraction, so the team should use dehumidifiers to draw out the excess humidity.

5. Restore the Area
Once the broken water heater is removed and the new piece is installed, specialists will begin to rebuild your room. This often includes putting in new baseboards and drywall. Painting or patching takes place to get everything back to normal.
A leaking water heater should be handled with care. Think about your safety by cutting the electricity off. Then, begin to work with a restoration team that can lead you through the appropriate remediation steps.

3 Tips for Business Disaster Preparedness

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Preparing your business for disaster includes creating a contingency plan.

Preparing your company to get back on its feet after a tornado, fire or flood is just as important as paying your rent - but many businesses label this a low priority. Yet without a disaster preparedness plan, your business could face unnecessary losses. Get your Bunker Hill Village, TX business ready - here are three quick ways how.

Top Disaster Risks

Both man and mother nature can be the cause of a disaster. Some of the most potentially devastating incidences include:

• earthquakes
• terror attacks
• flooding
  
  

Preparing your business for disaster includes creating a plan with contingencies for all of the above.

Review Your Insurance

One of the easiest ways to prepare for a disaster is making sure you have proper insurance. Review your insurance coverage regularly to make sure you have flood insurance, as well as add-ons for business interruption, loss of use, and extended coverage.

Draft Your Response Plan

A written plan detailing what to do amid a disaster is perhaps one of the most important parts of a disaster preparedness effort. Such business preparedness plans are custom to each business. But at a minimum, they should include things like:

• emergency phone numbers
• A map of the building with emergency exits clearly marked
• Instructions and circumstances for continued operation
  
  

Protect Your Data

In a high-tech world, your company’s data can be one of its most invaluable commodities. Make sure your company and its clients are protected during a disaster. Regularly back up files and store in a safe place off-site. That way key proprietary data, as well as sensitive client data, will be safe should a disaster compromise company computers.
Planning for disaster preparedness is just as much a part of running a robust business as paying bills. Don’t just prepare for flood or storm cleanup. Get ahead of the game by using these tips to ensure your business is ready when disaster strikes.

Why SERVPRO Is Faster to Any Size Disaster

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the ideal restoration company and is Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Why SERVPRO Is Faster to Any Size Disaster

The faster you get help after a disaster, the less property damage you are likely to sustain. When water is left to sit after a flood, mold can begin to set in after as little as 24-48 hours. When fire damage is left unattended, holes in the exterior of the building can lead to more damage from the elements. If you experience a disaster in Hilshire Village, TX, you will need a team of experts to help immediately. Here are several reasons that SERVPRO is the ideal restoration company and is Faster to Any Size Disaster.

1. Locally Owned
Since there are over 1,900 SERVPRO franchises, experts can reach 90% of all U.S. zip codes within two hours of your initial call. Additionally,locally-owned franchises can provide an extra set of knowledge about specific conditions in the Hilshire Village, TX, area.

2. Available 24 Hours a Day
SERVPRO knows that disasters do not happen only during regular business hours. That is why they are ready to take your call and send out an emergency response team 24 hours a day, every day. No matter the day or time, SERVPRO is standing by and ready to be Faster to Any Size Disaster.

3. Highly Trained Staff
SERVPRO has over 50 years of experience in the restoration and remediation of mold, fire, and water damage. Headquarters passes this knowledge on to each of its franchisees through extensive training programs.

4. Help With Your Insurance Claim
When your team of experts arrives onsite, the claims process will begin. SERVPRO has completed thousands of jobs and understands the insurance process well. They will help monitor the entire process from beginning to end. 
Having a SERVPRO team that is Faster to Any Size Disaster can help minimize additional damage to your property. By having SERVPRO experts help you through the process, your property will be back to its original condition as quickly as possible. 
 

Grill Cleaning and Maintenance Can Prevent a Grease Fire

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

It is important to deep clean your grill.

Grill Cleaning and Maintenance

Residents of Spring Valley, TX, are looking forward to cooking on a grill again. However, summer fun can end quickly if a grease fire damages your home. Frequent grill cleaning can prevent costly fire damage.

Cleaning Supplies
Have these cleaning supplies available when preparing to clean your charcoal or gas grill for the summer:

• Scouring pad
  
• Grill brush with scraper
  
• Dish soap
  
  

Grill Maintenance and Deep Grill Cleaning
It is important to deep clean your grill and check for signs of needed maintenance at the beginning of summer. Remove any old ashes from your charcoal grill and scrape the grates with a grill brush and hot soapy water. Rinse with hot water before cooking. 
If you have a gas grill, it is important to check for grease under the firebox. Empty the grease collection tray and clean it with hot soapy water. Check the burner hoods for any dirt or grease, making sure the burner ports are clear so flames can pass through.
Repeat the deep cleaning process at the end of summer and store your grill in a dry place or under a weatherproof cover. Additionally, don't forget to remove the ignition battery from your gas grill so it doesn't corrode.

Fire Damage Protection
Make sure you clean your grill thoroughly every time you use it. Scrape any burnt food off the grates before and after cooking and scoop out old ashes from your charcoal grill. If you have a gas grill, empty the grease pan under the firebox and remove any built-up grease, food or ashes from the firebox and burner hoods.  
Fires can happen even if you are diligent about grill cleaning. If a fire damages your house, enlist fire restoration specialists from Spring Valley, TX, to coordinate the fire cleanup. Routine cleaning and maintenance will help prevent fire damage, so you can relax and enjoy your favorite summer foods without fear.

3 Reasons To Avoid Traveling During a Flood

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

No amount of travel tips will prepare you for driving through a flood.

Three Reasons Why You Shouldn't Travel During a Flood

It can be stressful and uncomfortable to stay in your home while you are waiting for professional water damage repair work to be done. However, it is better than the alternative of driving through a flooded street. If there has recently been a storm in Houston, TX, and there is a lot of water on the roads, here are a few reasons to stay at home.

1. You Can’t See the Road
When you are driving on a flooded street, you might feel confident that you know what you’re getting into, but this is often untrue. The excessive amounts of water could be hiding road damage and debris. What looks like a shallow puddle could really be a much deeper hole.

2. It’s Easy To Lose Control
It does not take much water to create an unsafe driving environment. Even just a few inches could result in hydroplaning. On a flooded street, the likelihood of losing control is high. For most vehicles, a couple of feet of water is enough to lift and carry it away or cause it to flip over. Drivers with smaller cars may experience the same in even less water.

3. Flooded Roads Can Damage Your Vehicle
If your own safety is not a convincing enough reason to stay off the roads, consider the potential damage to your car and your wallet. Your vehicle is not designed to be used in the water, and a flooded environment can damage your engine and other important parts. This can result in pricy repairs or even the need for a new car.
No amount of travel tips will prepare you for driving through a flood. No matter how experienced you are, it is much safer to stay home until the water has returned to a normal level. Not only can it compromise your safety but it can cause serious damage to your car as well.

What To Do When a Pipe Bursts

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

Water restoration after a pipe break in Bunker Hill Village, TX.

When a Pipe Bursts, What Do You Do?

Bursting pipes aren't always located out in the open; sometimes, they are situated behind the walls where they are out of sight and hard to recognize. Within minutes, your commercial property could experience a lot of damage because of a broken or leaking pipe behind the walls. Sadly, broken pipes are some of the most common causes of water damage in Bunker Hill Village, TX, and in many of these cases, a burst or leaking pipe could go unnoticed until serious damage has occurred.

Take Quick Action
As soon as you notice that your property has suffered water damage, you should take some quick steps to prevent further damage:

• Turn off the water at the water main.
  
• Open one or more faucets to decrease the water pressure in the pipes.
  
• Remove water as quickly and thoroughly as you can.
  
• Contact professionals to fix the broken pipe and provide further cleanup and repair services.
  
  

Your quick actions could mean the difference between containing the damage and experiencing extensive, widespread trouble.

Recognize the Potential for Trouble
There are many pipes throughout your property that could cause a lot of damage. Bursting pipes often happen when plumbing and other systems are installed along the exterior of the home without enough insulation to protect them from freezing. Aging pipes can develop leaks or cracks if they are exposed to pests or unusual amounts of water pressure. If the original installation of the pipes wasn't handled correctly, slow leaks could cause damage for a long time before you notice them.

Get Help Quickly
Once any damage has happened, it's important to contact water damage cleanup and repair professionals to correct the situation. In addition to putting your business back into a safe working condition, the technicians may also help you recognize other areas of weakness and concern. It's definitely better to avoid damage altogether when it's possible to take preventative action.
You may not always recognize water damage when it first occurs, but when you do notice the damage, take quick action. It doesn't take long for bursting pipes and running water to cause a lot of harm.

Understanding the Mold Remediation Process

5/22/2022 (Permalink)

Mold containment procedures.

Steps For Removing Mold From Your Building

If you suspect you have black mold in your building in Hilshire Village, TX, the best thing you can do to protect your business is remove it. Unfortunately, getting rid of the fungus is not as simple as spraying bleach on it and hoping it goes away. In fact, bleach and other household cleaners are not well-suited to do the job. Mold removal is an involved process that needs serious consideration.
Here are four steps for removing mold from your building.

1. Call for Help
It is always recommended to enlist the help of professionals and avoid attempting the mold cleanup process on your own. Professional mold removal services will ensure the job is done properly, eliminating the chance of the fungus growing back and haunting you with future damage.

2. Contain the Mold
To keep it from spreading, block off the contaminated area by setting up physical barriers and sealing off doors and windows. In addition to containment, you should cut off any airflow to the affected area.

3. Remove the Mold
The method of removal largely depends on the surface the black mold is growing on and the size of the growth. Mold-infested items should be discarded, and infected areas should be treated with antimicrobial and antifungal solutions.

4. Disinfect the Area
Once the fungus is removed, disinfect and sanitize the affected area. This process will prevent the infestation from returning and will help remove any odors that developed.
After the area has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, you can begin the mold remediation process to return your business to its pre-mold condition. Depending on the amount of damage, the restoration process may only require minor repairs, such as painting walls or replacing furniture and carpet, or it may be severe enough to require reconstruction of various parts of the building.
When it comes to removing black mold, you should not waste any time. Removing the fungus quickly and preventing the spread can help you avoid costly repairs. With swift action and thorough remediation, you can recover and get back in business in no time.

How To Secure Your Building After a Fire

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

Board-up services and roof tarping are crucial parts of the fire damage restoration process.

How to Protect Your Property After a Fire

The amount of damage your building in Spring Valley, TX, sustains after a fire depends on many factors, including how quickly firefighters put out the fire and how many areas of the structure were involved. Even if your building has extensive fire damage, though, you still need to protect what is left from further problems. There are a couple of things that fire restoration experts do to keep your building secure during cleanup.

Roof Tarping During Fire Cleanup
One of the first things technicians are likely to do when they arrive is cover up any vulnerable spots on your roof. Tarping your roof at the beginning of the cleanup process has several benefits:

• Keeps water and debris from further damaging your roof
  
• Protects the interior of your building
  
• Helps prevent mold from growing by minimizing damp areas
  
  

Another reason to tarp your roof is to ensure that your provider covers the fire damage restoration costs. You can't always prevent a fire. If, however, your building sustains secondary damage due to negligence while it's being repaired, your insurance company may reject your claim, and then you'll be stuck with the bill.

Board-up Services For Damaged Buildings
You'd be surprised how many people try to take advantage of a compromised structure. The restoration team can board up windows, doorways and other spots that the fire left open. This process discourages looting and vandalism. It also keeps animals out and prevents them from nesting in the building.
It's important to let the professionals handle building security. They understand the safety precautions they need to take to arrange tarps and board and secure them in place. The technicians are also less likely to damage the building further than a layperson would be.
Board-up services and roof tarping are crucial parts of the fire damage restoration process. Avoid further issues by making sure your building is protected.

Different Techniques To Prevent Flooding Throughout History

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

The Thames Barrier in England

Throughout history, different cultures have faced the threat of high water. This often comes in the form of excessive rains that cause rivers and streams to rise, flowing over banks and inundating homes and buildings. Efforts to escape the devastation caused by floods include moving to new areas, building trenches to divert water and piling up sandbags. It is hard to pinpoint exactly when sandbags first were used to stop flooding, but the practice has been around for more than a century. They are inexpensive and effective, though they require a lot of heavy labor.

The Use of Engineering in Flood Prevention

Many places in the world undertook more extensive measures to control flooding. These efforts involved advanced engineering, often on an epic scale. Many of these programs were developed to keep ocean waters from destroying cities or farmland:

• The Thames Barrier in England
  
• The Watergates of Japan
  
• The Maeslant Storm Barrier in the Netherlands
  
• The MOSE Project in Venice, Italy
  
  

While effective in stopping high water, these projects were extremely expensive. However, they allowed areas of valuable land to remain in use despite fluctuating water levels.

The Utilization of Restoration Services

In recent times, water cleanups have become increasingly sophisticated thanks to professional storm restoration services for commercial properties. A local franchise in Houston, TX, employs highly-skilled workers who understand the best techniques for restoring a building. These technicians use advanced equipment such as wet vacuums, industrial fans and thermal imaging cameras to erase the impacts of floods and devastating storms. They also employ a variety of cleaning techniques to clean surfaces of microbial and chemical substances as a result of high water. Since water can destroy and corrode everything from wood to metals, the technicians restore and rebuild areas of a building that have undergone severe damage. While water is indispensable to life on the planet, history has shown that it also requires exceptional efforts when it rages out of control.

Why Routine Plumbing Maintenance Is Vital for Your Business

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Bunker Hill Village, TX.

If you own a commercial office building in Bunker Hill Village, TX, routine plumbing maintenance can prevent costly repairs due to damaged pipes. Leaking pipes may lead to significant flooding, but other plumbing issues can also cause problems.

What Causes Pipe Damage?

Factors that compromise your building's plumbing system can include:

• Advanced age
  
• Poor insulation
  
• Clogged lines
  
• Unaddressed corrosion
  
  

Although some pipe deterioration and occasional backups are inevitable, many pipe damage consequences are avoidable by scheduling plumbing inspections that can reveal potential vulnerabilities.

How Can Inspections Save Money?

Discovering leaks as soon as possible after they begin can reduce the potential for significant damage and increase the chances that your business insurance policy will cover any losses. Leaking pipes can ruin carpets and upholstery, electronics and office supplies or walls and ceilings. Flooding from damaged pipes can also make surfaces susceptible to mold growth that costly remediation efforts must contain.
Insurance providers will likely not cover losses if pipe damage is due to inadequate maintenance, though they may cover flood damages from burst pipes. Still, contacting a flood restoration service to extract excess water as soon as possible after a flood is critical for reducing your business's monetary losses.

What Signs Indicate Leaks and Other Damage?

In addition to scheduling periodic plumbing inspections and repairs, it is helpful to know the signs that may indicate plumbing problems. Wet spots or stains on drywall, floor or ceilings could mean a long-term slow pipe leak. Loud banging or hissing sounds when water is running can occur when pipes are loose or unstable. Unpleasant odors may be due to clogs in the sewer line that can ultimately strain your plumbing with excess force and cause pipes to break. If tangible signs of pipe damage do not exist, a higher than typical water bill could indicate that you have cracked or leaking pipes.
Damaged pipes causing floods can be a headache for building owners in Bunker Hill Village, TX, but a flood restoration service can help clean up.

Why Mold Growth Should Be Taken Seriously by Building Owners

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a property.

Ways To Prevent and Treat a Mold Break

When you lease or rent building space to clients, you have a number of responsibilities to maintain the property according to community standards. If you fail to do this, you could leave your company open to lawsuits. Mold insurance claims cover both property damages as the result of mold growth as well as certain liability issues. The presence of mold in your building could cause harm to your clients or tenants in a variety of ways:

• A business disruption
  
• A safety issue
  
• The destruction of personal items
  
• A health concern
  
  

Any of these problems could lead to a mold claim against your company. Fortunately, there are effective ways to prevent and treat a mold outbreak.

Mold Prevention

As with most problems, it is always better to avoid the issue than to have to clean it up. Understanding how mold grows is the key to preventing its appearance. Excess moisture is the primary cause of a fungal outbreak. An outbreak often happens after a leak that brings water into a building is not cleaned up in a professional manner. This enables mold that is present in a building to grow into colonies that harm materials and even degrade air quality. Many mold insurance claims come about because of a water leak.

Mold Remediation

A professional mold mitigation franchise such as SERVPRO is always Here to Help. If your building has a serious mold problem, highly-trained technicians perform an assessment and inspection that quickly identifies the extent of the problem. They will use equipment such as containment barriers, HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers to get the fungus under control. They will remove mold and mold-infested materials, clean contents and belongings and restore or replace any damaged items. A professional cleanup and restoration go a long way toward minimizing any mold insurance claims. Your clients or tenants can feel confident that the problem is taken care of once and for all.

How To Navigate a Power Outage At Your Business

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Choose a generator that provides the appropriate voltage for your needs.

A power outage can cripple your business if you don't prepare it for the arrival of severe weather or other emergencies in Hilshire Village, TX. You can keep your business running as usual if have a backup energy source.

What Are the Costs of Losing Power at Your Business?

Although power interruptions are common, they often catch business owners by surprise. Loss of power at your business can have devastating consequences, including:

• Loss of data stored on computers
  
• Low employee productivity
  
• Electrical surges that damage equipment
  
• Lost customers
  
  

How Can You Run Your Business When Power Goes Out?

Halting your daily operations is not inevitable if you devise a thoughtful business continuity plan. In addition to training your staff about the importance of data backups, you should make provisions for emergency power sources.

A portable generator is an affordable option to help your business get through a power outage. You must determine how much power your business requires in advance of a potential emergency and choose a generator that provides the appropriate voltage for your needs. For example, in addition to powering your computers and phone system, you will likely need to consider lighting and other electronic devices such as copiers, automatic doors or security systems.

When preparing your business continuity plan, remember to account for the fuel supply you will need to run your backup portable generator. The two most common options are oil and gasoline. Regardless of which option you choose, it is necessary to keep an adequate fuel supply on hand to ensure that you can power your business for at least two or three days.
Part of your preparation for losing power should also include getting an uninterruptible power source battery to keep your electronics running. A UPS is vital to ensure you have enough time to properly shut down your computers until your generator kicks in.
When a severe storm or another emergency leads to a power outage or damages your business in Hilshire Village, TX, a disaster recovery service can help you get back up and running.

The Key Elements of Fire Damage Restoration

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

The aftermath of a home fire in Spring Valley, TX.

The Most Important Factors in Fire Damage Repair

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 30,000 home fires happen every month in the U.S. These fires range from fairly minor to major events that cause extensive damage to a home. Residential fires happen for many reasons, but one commonality in these situations is the need for fire restoration. This is the art and science of restoring a home to its original condition. It is not an easy task and usually requires the services of a professional emergency restoration company. Highly trained technicians work to minimize damage to a home in Spring Valley, TX, reduce costs and expenses and keep everyone as safe as possible.

Proven Methods To Reduce Costs

After a fire, a home is often open to the elements and therefore subject to additional damage from weather. A fire restoration crew will do an immediate board-up or roof tarp service to prevent water from coming into the home. Experienced technicians will also perform some or all of the following actions:

• Water removal and drying
  
• Mitigation of smoke damage
  
• Cleaning and repair
  
• Reconstruction of damaged structures
  
  

A team that is conscious of extra costs will practice a restore versus replace mentality. Workers will test materials such as furniture, clothing and carpeting to see if they can be successfully cleaned of soot and odors.

Advanced Training for Improved Safety

In addition to professional damage cleaning, an experienced team will focus on safety. Trained workers know that soot can penetrate all areas of the home including the HVAC system, posing a potential health risk. They also know that the extreme heat of a house fire can make canned goods and other foods unsafe to eat. As part of the fire restoration process, the crew will secure the home against the dangers of falling items and unstable structures. In the aftermath of a home fire, a professional crew works to restore a home safely and efficiently.

What To Do If a Pipe Bursts in Your Commercial Building

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in a building in Houston, TX.

What Should You Do If a Pipe in Your Commercial Building Bursts?

Older commercial properties are particularly broken to frozen pipes. However, this phenomenon can occur in newer buildings as well. Water flowing through any cold, uninsulated pipes may freeze into ice. As the ice expands, it can put pressure on the pipes until they break. This could lead to massive water damage in Houston, TX. If you do encounter bursting pipes, here are some steps you should take.

1. Shut Off the Water and Electricity

The water will continue to escape from the burst pipe until you shut off the main valve. Make sure that everyone in the building knows where this valve is. You should also turn off the electricity in the damaged part of the property. This will prevent electrocution during the drying process.

2. Call a Professional

A broken pipe can leave you with a huge puddle of water in your building. The water may also soak your walls, carpets or ceilings. Over time, this could lead to the growth of mold that causes even further damage. You thus need to contact emergency cleanup professionals as soon as you discover the bursting pipes. Look for a company that provides 24-hour service. Even a few-hour delay could have severe consequences.

3. Take Preventative Measures

Once the cleanup is complete, talk to the experts about limiting additional pipe breaks. They can tell you how to spot and thaw frozen pipes before they burst. You can use warm washcloths or hair dryers to heat up the pipes. You may also want to keep a trickle of water flowing through the pipes at all times. This will stop the water from freezing.
Frozen pipes can flood your Houston, TX, property during the winter. If this happens to you, turn off the water immediately and contact experts who know how to fix broken pipe. The professionals can also help you prevent bursting pipes in the future.

2 Reasons To Call a Restoration Company After a Flood

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning up water damage should usually be left to a professional.

Fixing Broken Pipes

Bursting pipes can cause an incredible amount of damage in Bunker Hill Village, TX. Such damage can be extremely expensive, as you may need to completely rip out and restore large areas of your home. Even a single broken pipe can ruin nearly an entire room, and possible secondary damage can be even more devastating than obvious ruin from the water. When you need to fix a broken pipe and repair extensive damage, calling a qualified restoration company is usually the best idea.

Water Damage

Because most pipes are kept in hidden locations, you may not discover a broken pipe until extensive damage has already been done. Even small amounts of water left unattended can damage the following areas of your home:

• Sheetrock
  
• Baseboard
  
• Hardwood floors
  
• Carpet
  
• Rugs
  
• Insulation
  
  

Water damage may cause sheetrock to weaken and can even ruin insulation, resulting in expensive, time-consuming repairs. Expensive wood floors can be completely ruined when water soaks into the grain, causing floorboards to buckle and bow. The longer water stands unattended, the more damage it can do, so calling a restoration company immediately is usually the best way to minimize the problem.

Secondary Damage

While a lot of water damage is visible upon first inspection, you should investigate further to find any secondary damage that may have happened. Bursting pipes can cause many types of hidden damage, including:

• Mold
  
• Mildew
  
• Bacteria
  
  

Mold, mildew and bacteria grow best in warm, dark environments, so if a broken pipe is not detected quickly, the fungus could spread rapidly until it is out of control. Household cleaners may not be strong enough to get rid of existing mold and mildew, so it is a good idea to leave the treatment to a restoration company.

While many people may be able to fix a broken pipe, cleaning up water damage should usually be left to a professional. With the help of a restoration company, dealing with bursting pipes in Bunker Hill Village, TX can be a quick and manageable process.

Get a Fast Response for Your Emergency

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals are ready to arrive faster to any size disaster.

SERVPRO has franchises in nearly 2,000 locations around the country. When you need flooding, fire, or storm restoration services, SERVPRO gets there faster to any size disaster. Hilshire Village, TX, trained professionals are available every day at all hours, so when your property needs damage mitigation or other emergency services, a technician is just a phone call away.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

• On-call teams are available at all times.
  
• Teams arrive faster to any size disaster.
  
• Franchises are recognized industry leaders across the nation.
  
• Technicians are ready to file your insurance claim.
  
• Local insurance companies and other service providers prefer working with SERVPRO.
  
• Technicians have top-quality training for fire, water, mold, and mildew cleanup and restoration.
  
  

If you're not sure which services you need or how to get started, get answers with a simple phone call.

Trust Owners and Technicians From Your Hometown

It's easier to trust an emergency flood damage restoration company with your home when you know the technicians doing the work. SERVPRO franchises are locally owned, so you can verify the quality of training, work results, and methods. Services for residential customers include:

• Water damage remediation
  
• Fire damage cleanup and repairs
  
• Mold identification and remediation
  
• Storm damage cleanup and restoration
  
• Cleaning services for other disasters
  
  

Residential and Commercial Services

Do you have a commercial property that needs attention as well? The condition of your business sends a message to clients, even after natural disasters. Get your commercial properties looking their best as quickly as possible. SERVPRO cleaning and emergency restoration crews are on standby to provide emergency services that prevent further damages and to make a plan of action immediately following the disaster.

Any Time, Any Size Service Response

Whether you need emergency damage restoration for your Hilshire Village, TX, home or business, SERVPRO professionals are ready to arrive faster to any size disaster. Locally owned franchises are located across the country, so teams can be mobilized to provide you with the services you need to feel like the disaster never even happened.

What To Know About an Emergency Board Up

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

Emergency board-up services in a home in Spring Valley, TX.

What You Should Know About Emergency Boarding Up

If your Spring Valley, TX, home has suffered fire damage then you may be looking at the option of doing a board up over the damaged area. There are several reasons you may want to consider this process. Here’s what you may want to know.

How Boarding Up Can Protect Your Home

Having an emergency board up done to protect damaged areas of your home can help protect it from a number of things. Boarding over can

• Prevent inclement weather such as rain or snow from getting inside
  
• Reduce the possibility of wind damage
  
• Discourage animals from exploring the damaged area
  
• Reduce the risk of human trespassers
  
• Prevent a liability claim from someone who got into the damaged area
  
• Help maintain insurance eligibility
  
  

Insurance Benefits of Boarding Over Damaged Areas

In many cases, your insurance company may require you to board up the damaged area before they will accept your claim. Most policies cover only the initial damages and consider a failure to protect the area before repairs can be made an act of neglect. Boarding over the damage can help show them that you take your responsibilities as a homeowner seriously.

Proper Boarding Up Procedures

Boarding over the damage involves using ply-board or tarps in most cases. It’s important to cover all the damage and secure the edges to prevent weather or animals from getting in. A professional restoration service may be able to do the job for you if you have concerns.

Boarding over the damaged area can not only help protect your home from weather and animals but it may be required by your insurance company when filing a claim. Fortunately, many restoration services offer the option to have their team do the board up for you. When it comes to protecting your home from fire damage, boarding over the area can help save both time and further costly repairs down the road.

Repairing Broken Pipes Quickly

1/30/2022 (Permalink)

Water restoration after a pipe break.

Prevent Water Damage

No matter how many precautions you take, sometimes it’s not possible to prevent bursting pipes. After prevention, the best thing you can do is react quickly to start repairs when it’s time to fix a broken pipe. The faster you act, the more you can prevent water damage in Houston, TX.

Limit the Mold, Limit the Damage

When a pipe bursts, the first thing you need to do after checking with the insurance company is fixing the broken pipe. Once the hole is plugged or the broken pipe replaced, you can begin cleaning up the water and repairing the damage with these steps:

• Call a professional to assess the damage
  
• Remove standing water and remove any items that are saturated
  
• Clean items that can be salvaged
  
• Throw away items that are dangerous to use or consume
  
  

The faster you remove the water and the wet items, the more water damage in Houston, TX  you can prevent. This also limits the amount of mold growth you’ll experience, making your home safer and cleaner after the repair.

What To Keep, What To Throw Away

Unless you have black water flooding into your home, you should be able to clean most of your items and return them to use. Clothing or other cloth and canvas items need to be washed or dry cleaned. Floors should be sanitized and carpets cleaned. Any food or medical supplies should be thrown away and replaced. If you have black water in your home, you should throw away anything porous that was exposed, as those items can become breeding grounds for bacteria.

If you have water damage from a burst pipe in Houston, TX, the faster you move, the more damage you’ll be able to prevent. Getting your home and valuables cleaned, repaired or replaced as quickly as possible makes it easier to get back into all areas of your home quickly and safely.

Is That Mold? Identifying the Black Stuff

1/30/2022 (Permalink)

Black mold found in a Spring Valley, TX home.

Most people feel certain they know what mold is – it’s green, black or brown, fuzzy and pretty gross. But the fact is that there are numerous things that can be mistaken for mold. It’s important to know if you’re dealing with mold and what kind to start combatting the problem. Here are some common things people mistake for mold and tips for getting proper mold assessment in your Spring Valley, TX, property.

What is Mold?

There’s lots in the media about the harmfulness of mold, but just what is it? Mold is a type of fungus. There are hundreds of different types found indoors and outdoors. In the home, mold tends to thrive wherever it’s dark and slightly moist. This includes:

• Crawl spaces
  
• Bathrooms
  
• Attics
  
• Basements
  

While mold tends to like these places, there are lots of things that merely mold lookalikes.

Mildew
Mildew is actually a kind of mold. Like mold, it’s a fungus that thrives in a moist environment and can cause smells. Unlike mold, however, it tends toward flat surfaces and the damage it causes can be much more cosmetic and easily resolved than that of mold.

Dirt
It can be surprisingly hard to tell the difference between black mold and plain old dirt. Both grow in some of the same areas and can be dark and caked-on in appearance. A proper mold assessment can help spot key differences.

Soap Scum
Like mold, soap scum has a tendency to gather in wet areas like your bathroom sink, drains and shower doors. In the worst scenarios, it can become darkened, taking a dusky appearance that can make it easily mistaken for mold.
The first step in banishing mold is making sure mold is what you’re facing. Schedule a proper mold assessment and you’ll be on your way to a mold-free home.

Important Tips To Know Before Using a Fire Extinguisher

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Initiate the P.A.S.S. method.

How To Properly Use a Fire Extinguisher

Determining how best to handle a kitchen fire in a commercial building is vastly important anywhere, but it is crucial in a place as busy as Bunker Hill Village, TX. After all, trying to make such quick decisions in the heat of the moment can be difficult for some and nearly impossible for others. Learning even a couple of essential tips for how to properly use a fire extinguisher can make all the difference, whether it is for something as simple as minimizing fire damage or as important as saving lives.

No one wants to face a fire, but accidents can happen at any time. When you’re forced into a situation where using an extinguishing tool is necessary, utilize these helpful tips:

1. Choose the right type of extinguisher. Unbeknownst to many, there are actually different kinds of extinguishers for specific types of fires. In the event of a fire raging out of control due to cooking oils and/or grease, the best extinguishers to use are either the foam option (marked with a yellow band) or the carbon dioxide option (marked with a black band).

2. Initiate the P.A.S.S. method. To learn how to correctly use an extinguisher, many use this common acronym to remember the steps necessary to correctly activate it. The steps are as follows:

• Pulling out the pin at the top,
  
• Aiming the hose or nozzle at the direct source of the blaze,
  
• Squeezing the extinguisher’s handle to release the agent and
  
• Sweeping in a back and forth motion to fully hinder the flames.
  
  

In the event of a dangerous kitchen fire, staying calm and remembering these key tips for properly using a fire extinguisher can lessen the anxiety and panic that arises in the stress of the moment. Such helpful information can be important for preventing further fire damage, lowering restoration costs down the road that could quickly become a hefty fee.