Viera Black Water Damage Restoration

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

When flood water has different contaminating agents, as well as viruses that can present severe health risks, it is referred to as "black water."

Black Water Damage Restoration

When flood water has different contaminating agents, as well as viruses that can present severe health risks, it is referred to as "black water." In many areas of the United States, flooding is a serious risk, and Viera black water contamination is always possible. Storms, hurricanes, and the thawing of snow can all contribute to floods by leading to rising water from natural bodies of water and causing sewage back-flows.

If you want to remediate Viera black water contamination that is present in a building, it is best to contact SERVPRO. The task will necessitate a great deal of copious planning, and specialized equipment will be needed. A licensed contractor will have the expertise to assess the situation, as well as clean and dry the necessary locations. The following is a list of steps that should be followed in the case of black water damage:

1. Make sure that all building workers and other occupants are safe. Anyone who is working will need to don protective equipment, such as eye protection, boots, gloves, respirators, and waterproof coveralls.

2. The contractor who was hired must thoroughly inspect all of the affected areas to be able to assess the seriousness and nature of any damage, which will have an impact on the remainder of the restoration process.

3. Excess Viera water needs to be removed as quickly as possible, in order to prevent any further damage. It is also important to remove the sewage, contaminated porous materials, and any other waste. Negative air machines, air scrubbers, and other specialized tools may need to be utilized to stop the contamination from spreading. EPA-approved disinfectants will be used on affected surfaces.

4. Once the contractor has finished sanitizing, a balanced drying system will be put into place to restore damaged areas to their former conditions. Specialized procedures will be used here, as well as specialized equipment and products, including high capacity air movers and professional dehumidifiers.

In all situations of property damage, including that of black water contamination, contact the local SERVPRO office. These professionals will provide services to restore properties after disasters and minimize the overall losses.

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

Since every flood and water damage scenario is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. However, the overall water restoration process remains the same. The steps below detail our restoration process for the typical water-damaged property.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

5 Mistakes To Avoid With Flood Cleanup

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Brevard is here to help after water damage.

When flood water makes its way into your Melbourne, FL, home the thought of making repairs may seem overwhelming. However, there are few things that you won't want to do in such a situation. Here are five mistakes you should avoid when restoring your residence.

1. Don’t Wait To Make Repairs
One important thing to remember with a flooded home is not to wait to make repairs. Taking care of any restoration needs quickly can help prevent future problems.

2. Don’t Try To Do it All Yourself
Another thing to remember is not to try to perform the clean up all by yourself. A local flood damage restoration service often has the tools and equipment necessary to perform the job safely and quickly, and ensure the repairs are up to coding standards.

3. Don’t Ignore Safety Recommendations
When dealing with flood water it's important to observe all the safety recommendations. This may include reading the instructions for any equipment that you intend to use, as well as wearing proper safety gear such as masks, boots, coveralls, gloves, and even shoe covers.

4. Don’t Think Cleanup is Done Once the Water is Gone
Also remember that even though the flooding has been removed, the cleanup process itself may not yet be done. Water damage can persist even after the water is gone, and it's important to have an inspection done to look for any areas where structural integrity might be compromised, or mold may have set in, in order to get these properly remedied.

5. Don’t Forget To Talk To Your Insurance
It's also important to remember to talk to your insurance company. Your homeowner's policy may contain coverage for storm damage, and in many cases they may even recommend a restoration service.

When it comes to removing flood water and restoring your home, it's important not to wait to make any repairs. Don't try to do it all yourself, follow safety recommendations, and remember that even though the water is gone clean up may not be completed. Also, don't be afraid to talk to your insurance as they may be able to help.

7 Steps in Preparing For a Hurricane

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Even though hurricane season has just begun, it’s never too early to prepare. Unless you prefer to rush to several different stores and stand in hour long lines, within hours of the hurricane actually hitting.  I know I’d rather not do that! I’ve been in that situation, and let me tell you, it is not fun.

Instead, follow these 7 steps you should take before a hurricane hits.

1. Stay Informed

Make sure you know what is going on with the hurricane. Such as, what is the category of the storm, will it be hitting your area directly, if so, what time?  Make sure to know your county’s evacuation route, and customize your evacuation plan for your family specifically. The hurricane’s course is never set in stone, so be sure to establish a back-up plan for every scenario. There are great phone apps you can download and utilize while preparing your family’s hurricane plans and staying informed. Click Here to learn more about these apps.

2. Make a Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

Be sure that you create a checklist of supplies that is specific to you and your family and then more general supplies. Click Here

3. Do you have Hurricane Shutters?

Be proactive! Hurricanes are known for causing damage to houses, and the first thing that’s usually damaged is your windows. Florida Home Builders know this and sometimes provide hurricane shutters to new homes. Make sure to check and see if yours has or not.  If not, you can purchase shutters or you can pre-cut boards for your house windows.

4. Have a Backup Power Source

During hurricanes, it is likely that power lines get damaged or fall down, causing many people to go without power after the hurricane. It can take several days to several weeks for your local power company to repair the power line and get power up and running again. Because of this, it is a good idea to have a generator. Remember that they need gas to run and they are quite noisy.

5. Have at least 2 weeks of water and non-perishable food

FEMA recommends that each household has 2 weeks of food supplied. Hopefully you will not need to 2 weeks worth of food, but disasters do happen, and hurricanes can change on a flip of a dime. It is always best to be over prepared than under prepared.

6. Know How to Cook Without Electric

Without electric it can be hard to cook or warm up some of your food; considering this day of age, we rarely cooks without electric. But instead of trying to figure out how you are going to heat up the can foods you stocked up on, decide this issue before hand. Here are some ways you can cook without electric.

• Fireplace
• Canned heat
• Camping stoves
• Grills- propane or charcoal 

7. Remember to Relax and Stay Calm

Being relaxed and calm during disasters are much easier when your family and you are prepared for any kind of scenario a hurricane throws your way. Come up with some ideas and activities that can take your mind off of the storm or its aftermath. Pull out those dusty board games in your closet and take out the stack of books you’ve been meaning to get to. This should preoccupy you and your family, and give you some quality time together.

Bioremediation Services by SERVPRO

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Brevard professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business.

We are Here to Help

Get Your Business Back to Normal

SERVPRO is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect and sanitize their properties. All of our cleanup practices are in accordance with the guidelines provided by the CDC and local authorities. If you are interested in inquiring about our services we are here to help – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, while life gets back to normal in the communities we all call home.

SERVPRO can respond quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption to your company.

SERVPRO can respond quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption to your company. SERVPRO of West Brevard, professionals is uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs on a daily basis.

SERVPRO professionals are trained to perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

#covid #biohazard #SERVPROofWestBrevard

The Need for a Water Damage Specialist in Melbourne

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

No One Needs This Much Water in a Bathroom

Water Damage Specialists Have Industry Experience 

Water damage specialists in Melbourne, FL,  typically possess a plethora of certifications as well as years of experience within their industry. This acquired knowledge and experience enable the SERVPRO expert to address and resolve any and all water damage issues at hand. Moreover, the water damage specialist's extensive study and "hands-on experiences", in the field will empower her or him to recognize quickly your unique challenges and implement the solutions necessary to resolve them. 

Water Damage Specialists Work In Teams 

Water damage specialists have several contractors that work for or with them. When these individuals arrive at your residential property, they will move throughout your home and tackle several important issues simultaneously. Some of the challenges the contractors will typically address are removing damaged furniture, drying out your living space, inhibiting the growth of mildew and mold, and repairing your home's structure. 

Water Damage Specialists Use Specific Tools

In addition to working with teams, water damage specialists utilize specific tools that most residential property owners don't possess. Some of these tools include ozone machines, air-moving machines, and industrial-strength dehumidifiers. The water damage specialist can also utilize powerful chemical cleansers to optimize the sanitation of your property. After your home has been damaged by water, the most important task of the water damage expert is ensuring that spores, mildew, mold, and other debris do not develop and proliferate.  Industrial grade equipment expedites quick remediation.

Conclusion

If your home has recently undergone water damage, it's important to know that a water damage specialist can offer you detailed, results-driven repair services that restore the order and sanitation of your property. When you initiate a search for the ideal service provider, the search stops with SERVPRO. Our professionals are passionate and precise in offering customized water damage services, and they're ready to start working on your behalf immediately. Call us now to attain the high quality, effective water damage services you need and deserve.

Locally Owned and Operated

We work and live in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of West Brevard, is close by and ready to respond to your flood or water damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Melbourne community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be. 

Our highly trained technicians will begin the water removal process almost immediately upon arrival. 

Please call us at: 321-953-8600.

#westbrevardwaterremoval #waterdamagetips #howtocleanupwaterdamage 

Cell Phone Emergency Alerts

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that your cell phone could possibly send a text, that could potentially save a life?

Technology has come a long way!  The only way you used be able to receive Emergency information was by radio or television, but there is a better way and that is your cell phone.

Everyone has a cell phone, right?  In this day and age, we couldn’t imagine anyone not owning a cell phone; it’s practically unheard of.  More people own a cell phone than a car or a TV, and could you blame them?  You can watch TV or catch a ride from your phone in minutes. In 2002, only 62% of U.S. adults possessed a cell phone, and that percentage increased to 95% of Americans in 2020.  Today, cell phones are used for more than just to make calls. Cell phone capabilities aren’t what they were 10 or even 5 years ago. New technology has helped make our cell phone do practically anything, from GPS services to video chat, to web surfing, and to virtual reality.

Now knowing this, what is the best and quickest way to notify Americans in case of a major emergency?  I would suggest, through our cell phones!  You can be warned of upcoming dangers by emergency alerts from anywhere, while choosing how you’d like to receive them from your cell phone.  The ability to be warned of oncoming dangers at a moment’s notice can provide you with a jump-start to safety.  Here are 4 different ways to set up your emergency alerts from cell phones.

1. National Updates

Receive updates regarding National Security from Homeland Security, the latest outbreaks from CDC, and computer threats from US-CERT.  These notifications are issued through WEA- Wireless Emergency Alerts.  If you have ever received an Amber Alert it’s coming from the WEA, which is a default setting in most cell phones.

2. Statewide Activity Updates

Do a Google search for a Public Warning System for your state.  This will allow you to customize your alerts specifically to your state. 

3. Weather Apps

You can receive custom weather alerts from your state or city while customizing the level of warning you want to receive.   Apple users can download NOAA Radar Pro and android users can download the app Pro Weather Alert.  There can be a modest fee for their services, nut worth the price for emergencies and dangers.

4. FEMA

The FEMA text message program informs you of safety tips for specific disaster types, and allows you to search for open shelters and disaster recovery centers.

• Apple devices-text APPLE to 43362 (4FEMA)
• Android devices-text ANDROID to 43362 (4FEMA)

For those of you that are like me and hate cluttering up your email and social media, this is the resource for you. Stay up to date with the latest disaster/emergency, terrorism, disease outbreak, significant earthquake, and severe weather alerts all from one site.

Is Your Palm Bay Family Prepared for a Emergency?

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

When a hurricane is approaching, it can take out electricity, homes and businesses for weeks.

Is Your Family Prepared for a South Florida Emergency?

Are you a resident of South Florida? If you are, then you know how quickly hurricanes can hit – and the devastation they leave behind. SERVPRO of West Brevard, is a professional restoration company that is committed to bringing your home back to life after a disaster strikes. We’ve put together the top four tips that will help you get through South Florida’s risky hurricane season – and stay as safe as you can in the midst of a long hurricane season from June 1st to Nov 30th. Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead of the hurricane season:

Tip #1: Create a Emergency Preparation Kit
As hurricanes approach Palm Bay, FL, it can take out electricity, homes and businesses for  weeks to months. You want to have at least a two-week supply of water for each person in your home. You also want enough non-perishable food to feed everyone in your home for at least two weeks. Put together a first aid kit as well in case anyone gets hurt. Your 911 response system may get knocked out, and you need to know how to triage.

Tip #2: Power Up in Expectation of Powering Down
Charge all your cell phones. By extra batteries to operate radios and flashlights or camping lighting, such as headlamps and lanterns. Try to avoid matches and candles, as this is just another way to cause a disaster, via a fire.

Tip #3: Settle on an Evacuation Plan
Make sure everyone in your family knows the plan for evacuating. Listen to officials. If you get separated, plan in advance of a safe place, you will meet. Develop a plan to get out of town and where will you go? Call friends and family who live far outside the hurricane's trajectory to make sure you can go to safe place. Stock up on gas in your car's tank and in gas-safe containers in case you can't find a gas station for many miles on your journey -- something that often happens when an extensive storm hits.

Tip #4: Board Up
If you do not have hurricane windows and doors, plan to protect your windows and doors with plywood from local home construction stores. Reinforce every vulnerable part of your house -- from door hinges to the roof. Professionals at your local home construction store can help you make the right decisions.

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

SERVPRO of West Brevard Has DRYING Down to a Science in Viera, Florida

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Crews are servicing the Viera and Rockledge residents 24 hours, 7 days a week. Start drying out before mold starts growing.

What is the Science of Drying?

The Science of Drying is a process that was created to establish guidelines, regulate techniques, and provide validation and documentation on the drying process. This was developed out of the need to further validate the drying process and use more precise documentation on defining when a structure is dry.

Why is it important?

When it comes to water damage, there’s nothing more important than making sure the job is done right the first time. Doing so relies on a cleanup company that is on the frontline of training, technology, and technique. SERVPRO of West Brevard, is an Industry Leader in all three.

SERVPROs DryBookTM Documentation

The DryBookTM is a proprietary tool that:

• Manages industry drying requirements
• Provides real-time documentations on the drying process
• Validates the serves are executed to standard
• Reports to all Stakeholders involved
• Allows real-time updates through DryBookTM Mobile integration

About Our Drying Services

SERVPRO of West Brevard, specializes in water extraction and water restoration services. Our technicians are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly dry out your home or business quickly and safely. We service the residents of: Melbourne, Suntree, Viera, Rockledge, East Viera, and Palm Shores.

Don’t hesitate to contact our office staff if you think an area in your home may have water damage. Schedule a moisture test at 321-953-8600

#dryingoutdocuments #SERVPROofwestbrevard #whySERVPRO #westbrevard 

How Professionals Handle Water Damage Clean Up in West Brevard

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

If Too Much Water Has Gotten You Down, Call SERVPRO for help!

In the tragic event of a flood or a plumbing failure, a high-quality water damage cleanup and restoration service can be the best solution. The services offered by an expert repair team is crucial in resolving the issues in your home.

It is often imperative that water damage restoration is sought after flooding, because even when standing water is gone, excessive dampness and moisture continues to cause significant problems. If your home has been filled up with flood water from a nearby river or canal, it will likely leave behind contaminants, dirt, and other debris.

Bacteria, viruses, and mold, can very quickly gain a foothold in carpets, drywall, and upholstery. Therefore, it is important to seek the help of professionals that can eliminate these unwanted guests. The following section will explain what professional water damage clean up usually entails.

Reviewing the Damage
There are many of hazards linked with water damage clean up, so a restoration team from SERVPRO, must first get a good look at the water damage and assess all the variables associated with the final clean up.  Determinations are made whether the area is likely to be contaminated, how critical a threat it poses to the occupants, and what is the best way to mitigate continuing water damage.

Removing Standing Water
If standing water is present in the building, the water damage crew will use industry-grade pumps, wet vacs, and sump pumps for the extraction. You will be expected to vacate the area until the restoration job is complete or until it is safe for you to be on-site.

Drying Out a Wet Environment
After wrapping up and discarding any materials and possessions that cannot be salvaged, the team will attempt to dry out the environment as quickly as possible. They will do this with dehumidifying equipment and heavy duty fans and air movers. In some cases, tools like heat injectors will be brought into dry hard to reach areas. The progress will be continually assessed using moisture reading instruments and devices. The final drying time may take from several days to over a week.

Killing Off Bacteria, Mold, Germs, and Odors
The final steps, once the area is dry and moisture levels have returned to acceptable levels, is to apply antimicrobial and antifungal agents, for sanitation. Foggers will disperse odor destroying products to give your home a clean smell.

Welcoming the Family Back
Once all of the above steps have been completed, the occupants of the water damaged property will be allowed to return. The IICRC, trained water damage restoration experts from SERVPRO of West Brevard,  will complete a final walk-thru with the homeowner to ensure complete satisfaction with the water remediation process. We are confident that you will feel "Like it never even happened."

We are Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

SERVPRO of West Brevard, are water damage specialists who get started promptly to get your property dry and back to pre-fire or water damage condition. Using advanced water removal and drying equipment and scientific drying principles to get your property dried quickly, we document the drying process to validate your home or business is ready. We are members of the local communities and are ready 24/7 to help. 321-953-8600

Dealing With a Sprinkler Flood in Your Business

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage caused by fire sprinklers

A typical business owner in Satellite Beach, FL, doesn’t spend time pondering the effects of catastrophic flooding due to fire sprinklers being activated. However, it’s a problem that can quickly get out of control and cost tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage. The obvious solution to the problem is prevention, but you first need to know what causes the issues.

Reasons For Accidental Activation

Contrary to popular belief, modern sprinkler systems aren’t activated by fire alarms or smoke from burnt food in an employee break room. They instead have to be subjected to extreme heat that will either burst the red liquid bulb or melt the metal sensor. However, there are cases where they will activate accidentally, and the following are common reasons for this to happen:

• Sprinkler heads being used as hangers
• Improper installation
• Vandalization
• Factory accidents

Immediate Steps To Mitigate Losses

In an emergency flooding situation, the first critical step is to turn off the water. In an office or factory setting, it’s important to have multiple designated employees who know how to do this. Once the water is shut off, cleanup can begin. Hundreds of gallons of water can be released in a short period of time, so water damage to floors, walls and machinery happens quickly. The most thorough plan is to contact a water restoration company, which will be able to correctly dry each surface and reduce mold risk.

Long Term Approach

Once the initial cleanup is underway, the next step is to contact the insurance company and prevent the problem from ever occurring again. Employees must be trained to never touch or hang anything near a sprinkler head, and ideal placement for them is in a location difficult for a person or machine to accidentally contact.

Flooding in your business can seem overwhelming. However, there are steps you can take to prevent and minimize damage. At SERVPRO of West Brevard, our professional technicians, will have your facility looking, "Like it never even happened.”

Easy Mold Prevention Tips for Your Company

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Upon the discovery of mold, give SERVPRO of West Brevard a call!

Running a company in Melbourne, FL, might have you too busy to be concerned about black mold and other fuzzy growth patterns. However, unless you have a proactive plan in place to address potential growth, you will find yourself spending precious time and resources to correct a problem that could have easily been prevented. Look at the difference something as simple as carpet cleaning can make.

Mold Growth Possibilities

If your facility suffers from a leaky roof or unsealed windows, the long term results of disrepair will be water damage. With the right combination of untreated damage and a good supply of oxygen, mold spores will take up residence in your air ducts, on your walls and ceilings, and in your carpet. A thorough maintenance and cleaning plan for your facility will be the best way to address these concerns. Your cleaning routine should include:
• Vacuuming all high traffic areas at least twice a week.
• Daily removing all trash.
• Daily sweeping, mopping, and sanitizing all restroom and kitchen facilities.
• Sweeping all hard floor surfaces at least twice a week.
• Checking HVAC filters at least once a month.

Special Attention Situations

Mold problems are created when the conditions for spore growth are encouraged. If the flooring has gotten wet, a thorough carpet cleaning is necessary to remove all the water and disinfect the entire material. By placing rubber mats around entryways, you can encourage your patrons and employees to wipe their feet and avoid soaking carpeted areas with water and mud. Scheduling regular ductwork maintenance and HVAC inspections may also reduce the potential for needing mold remediation services.
Professional-rated carpet cleaning equipment can be rented from local retailers in Melbourne, FL, and this is one way to add this item to your maintenance routine. Create a master list of maintenance items so that everyone in the facility can do their part to help eliminate prime conditions for mold growth.

Common Factors That Lead To Commercial Water Damage in Viera

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Gets the Businessman Back into Business

Your Viera Business's Water Damage Is Restored by SERVPRO

If you run a commercial business, it makes good sense to keep your property in pristine, working condition. While there are numerous factors you must do to realize this objective, understanding the basics of commercial  water damage is particularly important. Lessen the chance of a negative impact on your property and business by reading the below information provided by SERVPRO.

Common Causes Of Water Damage

1. plumbing issues, old solder joints, eroding pipes
2. roof or foundation failures
3. malfunctioning appliances, especially in restaurants, and laundromats
4. water back-up, clogged drain lines or sewage systems
5. weather-related flooding from storms or hurricanes
6. HVAC problems, poor circulation resulting in high moisture levels and condensation
7. fire extinguishing work completed by firefighters can lead to substantive water damage.

The Dangers Of Water Damage.

There are a wide range of problems that can surface if you have water damage and do not resolve the issue immediately. Extending the time of office closure can be increased significantly without a quick removal process. Standing water, or heavily water-logged drywall, drop ceilings, and insulation must be removed ASAP to help the drying process of the interior of the structure. One of the more prevalent problems is a mold infestation. These fungi, from the spores present in the environment, thrive in places that are damp or wet. Mold proliferation could possibly expose employees, clients, customers, and adjacent business populations to unwanted health concerns.

Professional Commercial Water Damage Restoration.

In many cases, business owners recognize signs of commercial water damage and want to correct the issue immediately. However, this is not the appropriate course of action if there is a significant volume of water, musty odor from mold, or non-identified water intrusion source. In fact, you could deepen the damages to your property by attempting to complete the cleanup process without the assistance of trained professionals from SERVPRO. In addition to missing invisible signs of water damage that can weaken the property's structural integrity if undetected, attempting to complete the restoration process can expose you to numerous health hazards, and slower reopening of your place of business.

Call SERVPRO For Effective Commercial Water Damage Services. From initial assessment and inspection to completion, with documentation of drying, we will have our  IICRC-certified professionals work with diligence and dedication to get your commercial property in Viera back to pre-water damage condition. "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Water Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of West Brevard has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial water damage or flooding emergencies in many areas of Brevard County. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Learn more about Learn more about our training and certifications.  Call us for 24/7 immediate response. (321) 953-8600

SERVPRO Training and Restoration Certifications

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

Restoration Certifications in Florida

If you’re in need of disaster repair in Melbourne, your SERVPRO of West Brevard team is here to help. Each and every one of our professionals is highly trained in property restoration to better serve our community. From initial and ongoing corporate training to regular e-training and continuing education classes, you can trust that your SERVPRO Professionals have the knowledge and experience to handle your disaster, no matter the size. 

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the governing body that sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. All members of the SERVPRO team study IICRC standards and best practices to know how to restore damaged properties correctly. The certifications include: 

Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT): This course covers mold and sewage remediation techniques and how to perform the proper procedures in the field to keep all workers and occupants safe.

Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD): Through this training, technicians learn how to dry water-damaged structures safely and efficiently.

Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT): This course covers pre-inspection, fabric identification, cleaning chemicals and equipment, and proper cleaning techniques.

Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT): Through this training, technicians learn about smoke and fire damage, job planning, equipment, odor concepts, and practical cleaning procedures in fire and smoke settings.

Odor Control Technician (OCT): This course covers odor control, odor causes, and deodorization techniques.

Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician (UFT): Throughout this training, technicians go over fiber identifications and upholstery cleaning methods.

Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT): During this course, trainees learn about the concepts of water damage, its effects in different settings, and procedures to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination.

At SERVPRO, we understand that having the knowledge and training to handle an array of damages and disasters is crucial to meeting and exceeding the needs of our customers when the restoration is required. Our extensive SERVPRO training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training: This voluntary, self-paced program allows our professionals to learn more about crew training, fire restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and mold mitigation.
• Initial Franchise Training: This 15-day hands-on course at our training facility allows new franchise owners to master topics such as fire restoration and mold mitigation.
• e-Learnings: Through this web-based training, team members can stay up-to-date on industry standards and professional quality.
• Continuing Education Classes: These programs are designed for insurance agents, adjusters, real estate professionals, and franchise staff to learn more about emergency mitigation.

As your Melbourne disaster repair professionals, you can trust that we have the equipment and personnel to handle your cleanup and restoration needs. Often people will try to tackle their flood, mold, or fire issues without realizing that they will most likely do more harm than good without the appropriate technology and safety procedures. When you work with SERVPRO, you can trust that our services will restore your damaged property, while also keeping you, your family, and your belongings safe. Regardless of the cause or source, our team can handle any sized disaster.

Since 1967, SERVPRO has been changing the restoration and mitigation industry. To better serve our customers, SERVPRO created the National Training Center in 1992 to teach restoration and mitigation skills to franchise owners and insurance industry employees. Through professional training, our team is uniquely positioned and qualified to help when disaster strikes. Not only is our team trained in the most extensive performance guidelines in the industry, but we're also the ones who created them.

As a homeowner, having a certified team completing your damage restoration ensures that your home is safe and sound for you and your family. From your carpet to your ceiling and everywhere in between, our team has the expertise and tools so that you don’t have to worry about safety when playing with the kids on your living room carpet or preparing dinner on your kitchen counters. Whether it’s mold or fire that affects your home, our team will restore each and every piece to its pre-damage glory.

To learn more about our services, training, certifications, or processes, contact your Melbourne disaster restoration professionals today!

#certifiedwestbrevardmoldremoval #professionalrestoration #certifiedinsuranceapprovedwaterremoval #SERVPROofwestbrevard

How To Safely Use Candles in Your Home

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Candles can add a beautiful smell to a home, but you need to be careful.

While candles may be commonplace in homes across the country, they frequently cause house fires with an average of 23 home candle fires reported every day. Fortunately, there are many ways you can prevent a candle fire from ever occurring in your home.

Top Causes of Candles Fires

There are many reasons a candle fire can occur. One third of fires begin in bedrooms and the top three days they occur are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. Those most common situations that lead to candle fires include:

Candles being left too close to flammable materials
Forgetting to extinguish candles before leaving the home
Leaving a candle burning while sleeping

What To Do if a Fire Starts

If a candle fire ever happens in your home in [City, State], you need to know how to properly extinguish it. When putting out a candle fire, you should never use water, which causes it to spread. If the wax inside the candle catches fire, grab a cover to remove oxygen from the candle. If the flames spread to other parts of your home and get out of control, quickly contact the fire department and evacuate your home. If any fire damage occurs or your home is need of smoke cleanup services, a fire damage cleanup company can help restore your home back to its original condition.
Candle Alternatives
The best way to prevent candles from causing a fire in your home is to keep them out of your house entirely. There are many candle alternatives to consider including:

Incense
Flameless candle
Essential oil diffuser
Wax warmer
Oil warmer
Stick diffuser

While candles are often used for giving off a warm, romantic light and an appealing aroma, they can cause a candle fire if used incorrectly. It is important to always use candles responsibly or to try out any of the candle alternatives listed in this guide. Visit https://www.SERVPROwestbrevard.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration for more information on fire loss. 

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are life savers, and these tips can help you.

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, reduces the risk of fire injury in half. It is recommended that smoke alarms are installed in every bedroom on every level of the house. Business owners should ensure that their space is up to building codes and smoke detector requirements are met. If owners are unsure about the building, be sure to consult with your local Fire Marshall. It works the best when pairing the smoke alarms with a fire escape plan. In an emergency situation, a plan will allow your family, employees, or clients escape quickly and safely. Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance.

Tips for Smoke Alarms

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps,” the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

SERVPRO of West Brevard, is locally owned and operated so we are part of the Viera, Florida community,too. When you have a fire, flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help.

As fire and water damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly.  

Please call (321) 953-8600

Palm Bay Water Damage Inside Your Home Can Cause Your Expensive Appliances To Fail

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage tips include, finding the actual source of water leakage!

The Dangers Of Palm Bay Water Damage

Water damages thousands of homes each year due to floods, extreme weather events and plumbing disasters. The problem with water inside your home is the fact that there are a variety of environmental concerns that can affect your health. Water damage Palm Bay tips include reducing your risk of mold and mildew, bacteria and structural damage to your home that will cost you thousands of dollars. High humidity levels may cause your foundation and walls to crack. Foundation repairs are one of the most costly problems you face when owning a home.

The water damage inside your home can cause your expensive appliances to fail. Water damage tips include finding the source of water leakage. If your problems result from plumbing pipes, then you should turn off the main water valve and seek help from a professional. Lower humidity levels in your home by removing wet items such as rugs, carpets and furniture. Use a large fan to keep air moving inside your home.

If flood waters enter your home, you should immediately vacate the area. Plan ahead for natural disasters by packing important papers inside waterproof bags. Most areas of the country that are prone to flooding have warning systems in place. Listen carefully to the news when heavy rains are headed into your area. Flood waters are almost impossible to remove without consulting a professional service. Make sure you have flood coverage on your homeowners policy. If you live in a flood zone, then you should prepare in advance. Stock up on canned meats, fruits and vegetables that don't need to be cooked.

Your home can quickly become flooded even from running your washing machine. Never leave your home while your washing machine is running. Wet floors and carpeting must be completely dry to prevent mold and bacteria from forming. A professional service will remove the wet items and dry your floors. Check your homeowners policy to ensure your furniture, carpets and other items are covered. Planning ahead for natural disasters is the key to reducing costs. Prepare an emergency strategy with all members of your family that include severe weather events and flooding. 

Our technicians are highly trained and experienced with every West Brevard water damage situation, from sewage damage clean up, mold removal, and smoke and fire damage repair, flooded basement, wet carpet, wet walls, basement and crawl space water damage.

We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure.

Minimizing the Risk of Secondary Damage

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded commercial building after a pipe burst

A flood or burst pipe can cause significant water damage inside any business. Excessive water exposure can be particularly problematic because moisture is an essential ingredient for black mold growth. To help prevent secondary damage and the need for mold remediation services, it is essential that you hire a professional restoration crew. It is important that the crew you hire performs a thorough cleanup that incorporates essential procedures. If your building features tile, you can also complete important maintenance to help reduce the risk of extensive mold contamination.

Removal of Saturated Materials

The cleanup team should promptly remove all wet items from the water-damaged area. Because mold is a master at hiding, it is essential to discard saturated building materials, including the following items:

• Drywall and baseboards
• Insulation
• Carpets

Replacing these components helps eliminate potential undetected moisture zones behind walls and under flooring where mold can proliferate.

Drying the Affected Space

High humidity and condensation can also result in black mold growth. To help prevent this dilemma, it is essential to maintain adequate air circulation during the cleanup process. Remediation professionals can utilize fans and dehumidifiers to help remove excessive moisture. They can also employ moisture meters to verify the site is dry before installing new insulation, drywall and carpet.

Proactive Tile Care

Tile floors and walls are also susceptible to secondary damage after flooding. Because cement-based grout is porous, it is important to take proactive measures to help shield tile from water damage.

Unless it is properly protected, water can penetrate through grout and flood under the tile structure. This can undermine its stability and create an ideal environment for mold proliferation. To help reduce this risk, you should routinely apply sealant to any tile work inside your building.

Effective Strategies

No business owner wants to endure mold remediation. Fortunately, there are a few strategies that both property owners and flood cleanup crews can employ to help reduce the risk of black mold growth and its subsequent damage.

Fire Survival Tips

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

This house fire started by leaving a candle unattended.

Fire preparedness is one of the most commonly overlooked aspects of disaster preparation. Preparation is key to minimize the size and speed in which a fire can grow, allowing time to escape or wait for the fire department to come to the rescue.  

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape?

Are you prepared in case a fire?

Here are safety tips that everyone sure know:

Preparation:

-Never leave heating appliances unattended in your home.

-Frequently check that all smoke alarms within your home are properly working.

- Take note of flammable items in and around your home.

- Remove pine needles, leaves, and broken branches from around your house.

- Pine shrubs can quickly catch on fire; so think carefully before planting them close to your house.

-During dry seasons, use your garden hose and spray the roof and side walls of your home.

-Store fuel away from your house and in approved containers.

-Learn basic firefighter skills by taking a fire course. This can prepare you to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to protect your family and home when fire disasters strike.

Escape:

-Obtain a complete floor plan of your residence.

-Identify all available exits, especially basements and attics.

-If there is an upstairs exit, make sure there are emergency ladders available and all windows/doors open easily.

-Plan several exit routes in case the fire does not allow you to use a certain exit.

-Identify a meeting location after you have exited the building.

- Once the escape routes are planned, test out the routes before an emergency and make sure they work efficiently.

Resources to extinguish fires:

ABC Fire Extinguishers – A popular active fire protection device to control small fires, not intended to be used in an out-of-control situation.

Fire Extinguisher Ball – A light weight ball that can be thrown into a fire causing it to self-activate releasing chemicals to suppress the fire.

Indian Pack - A portable water pouch with a hose, which can allow you to put out small brush or wildfires around your home.

Baking Soda- Use baking soda to smother a small fire before it can spread by sprinkling over the fire. This is great to use for grease fires.

Chimfex Fire Extinguisher - Fire suppressant used for chimneys and fireplaces.

Three Things About Roof Damage Mitigation

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Shingle and structure damage to a roof.

After a storm in Palm Bay, FL, your house might have some damage that you need to take care of. In some cases, this will include roof damage. Before repairs can begin, however, the restoration company might need to do some mitigation. The following are a few things that you should know about this process.

1. When Do You Need Mitigation?

If you have roof damage that could become worse over time, then mitigation should be done right away. It will likely be required if you have missing shingles, cracks or holes in your roof. After an inspection has been performed, mitigation is the next step. Particularly if the damage is severe, it is important to get it done quickly.

2. Why Do You Need Mitigation?

The purpose of mitigation is to keep any damage to your home from getting worse. There are several things that could happen before repairs begin that could make the process even more complicated and time-consuming. Even small cracks can allow water to get inside the house, which can damage your belongings or the structure of the building. It can contribute to the growth of mold as well. Holes in the roof can allow further wind damage and can even let in small animals. Mitigation will help prevent this.

3. What Happens During Mitigation?

During the mitigation process, the cleanup and restoration company will cover any cracks or holes in the roof to prevent water, wind or debris from creating more problems. This is often done with a tarp, but more severe cases might require the use of wooden boards. Mitigation can sometimes include cleanup and sanitization as well.

If mitigation is not performed on the roof damage to your house, it could make the restoration process more difficult. When damage worsens, it requires more time and money to repair. Because of this, you should always have mitigation done as soon as you can.

Reasons To Trust The West Brevard Pros With Mold Remediation

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Black mold spreading on walls and closet doors.

You may be tempted to try to handle a black mold infestation yourself. However, mold can cause health effects, which is why it is important for you to call a home mold remediation specialist.

If you hire SERVPRO, then you will be able to rest assured that your home is free of this toxic substance. This will give you peace of mind. Continue reading to find about how you can benefit by leaving mold remediation to a professional.

You Will Be Able To Get An Immediate Response

A West Brevard mold problem needs to be handled as quickly as possible. You can trust SERVPRO, you will get an immediate response. In many cases, professionals will be able to start the remediation process the same day that you request a service. A SERVPRO professional can work in an efficient and timely manner to restore the problem. Your home will be habitable in no time if you hire a SERVPRO of West Brevard.

You Will Have The Problem Taken Care of by SERVPRO Professionals Who Have Advanced Training

Not only does SERVPRO offer speedy service, but they hire highly-skilled technicians. People who want to work as mold removal specialists will need to undergo several hours of advanced training. This training teaches people how to use the best techniques and tools to cope with the West Brevard mold problem. Technicians are also taught how to safely remove mold. Proper care must be taken in order to ensure that the mold is removed properly.

Innovative Equipment
When you schedule a professional mold removal service, like SERVPRO of West Brevard, the remediation team will completely eliminate mold from your home by using innovative equipment. You will not have access to these services and tools if you make an attempt to take care of the West Brevard mold problem yourself. The right equipment must be used to take care of a mold problem properly. In order to make sure that the mold problem is properly taken care of, you will need to make a call and schedule remediation services with SERVPRO of West Brevard.

Understanding Mold

Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors, making it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce health effects.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Salvaging Items After a Fire

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damaged appliances and other Household items.

A fire can be life altering event potentially costing you and your family both financially and sentimentally valuable items. If a fire does occur in your home, you should immediately contact the IICRC-certified professionals at SERVPRO to handle the cleanup and restoration ensuring you can save as many items as possible. However, there are things that you can do to save some of your items.

Clothing

Sometimes it’s not the fire that causes damage to your clothes but smoke odor and soot. You can sometimes rid these from your clothes by washing them. If the clothes you’re looking to save can be bleached, you can use the formula of four to six teaspoons of trisodium phosphate that can be purchased at paint stores, one cup of Lysol or any other household chlorine bleach, and one gallon of warm water. To wash the clothes, mix this formula together well, add your clothes, rinse them with clean water, and dry them well.

To remove mildew from your clothes, wash the fresh stain with soap and water. Then rinse and dry in the sun. If the stain remains, use a mixture of lemon juice and salt or a diluted solution of household chlorine bleach to handle the stain.

Cooking Utensils

If smoke and soot causes damage to your pots, pans, flatware, or any other kitchen utensils, wash the items with soapy water. Rinse the items off then polish the copper and brass with a special polish, salt sprinkled on a piece of lemon, or salt sprinkled on a cloth saturated with vinegar.

Electrical Appliances

If any electrical appliances have been exposed to water or steam, refrain from using those appliances until you’re able to have a service representative to check them. This is especially important for electrical appliances. While wet appliances can cause electric shock, steam has the ability to remove the lubricant from some of the moving parts of the appliance.

If the fire department turned off your gas or electric in the process of extinguishing the fire, you should contact the electric or gas company to restore service rather than attempting to do so yourself. Often a licensed plumber or electrician must make the repairs before service can be restored.

Rugs and Carpets

If rugs or carpets have become wet during the process of extinguishing the fire, they should be allowed to dry thoroughly. For throw rugs that have become damaged by smoke or soot, you can clean them by beating, sweeping, or vacuuming and then shampooing. Once the rugs have been cleaned, they should be dried as quickly as possible by being laid flat and exposing them to a circulation of warm, dry air. Turning on fans and facing them toward the rugs will speed up the drying process. It’s important to remember that while the surface of the rug may seem dry, there’s usually moisture at the base of the tufts that can quickly cause the rug to rot.

Leather and Books

If you have leather items that have been damaged during the fire, wipe the leather down with a damp cloth. Then use a dry cloth to dry the leather. If the items in question are purses or shoes, stuff newspaper into them which will help the items retain their shape. Leave any suitcases open to allow to dry. To dry any leather items, do so away from heat and sun. Once they’re dry, clean them with saddle soap. For suede items, use steel wool or a suede brush on the items. For any leather or suede jackets, rinse the leather in cold water and then allow them to dry away from heat and sun.

For books that have been damaged by water during the extinguishing of the fire, dry them by placing them on end with the pages separated. After the pages dry, pile or press the books to prevent the pages from crinkling. To prevent mildew from forming on the books, alternate drying and pressing until the books are thoroughly dry. If the pages of the book are very damp, you can sprinkle cornstarch or talc between the pages to help the process along. Leave the pages be for several hours to allow it to work, then brush off the cornstarch or talc. Turning fans on the book will also help it to dry quicker.

Photographs

For many people, photographs are some of the most valuable items they own. Therefore, preserving these items are of the utmost importance following a fire, flood, or other disaster. If the photographs have not been destroyed by the fire, they can usually be saved. It might be tempting to attempt to peel the pages that have been stuck together apart but you should never do this. To separate photos that have been stuck together, soak them in clear, clean water and rinse carefully and thoroughly. Then let the stuck photographs separate on their own. It’s important to dry the photos quickly because if the photographs remain damp, mold could form and damage the photos.

If you suffer fire damage in your home, it’s imperative that you contact the IICRC-certified professionals at SERVPRO to clean up and remediate the structure. While they’ll fully restore your home, there are some items that you can restore yourself. These tips will help you to save some of your most valuable items.

How To Limit the Interruption To Your Business While Dealing With Water Damage

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was caused by a recent storm in the area.

A commercial property owner's worst nightmare might go something like this: a force out of your control, like flooding, causes your building to shut down and your business hemorrhages money and loses out to competitors. If such a disaster were to occur in Melbourne, FL, how can you mitigate this?

Short Delay

If a scenario like a broken pipe flooding your commercial building occurs, you're going to need time to restore your property. Unfortunately, this is something that could halt or slow down your operation for a period of time. However, there are ways you can try to expedite this process:

• Turn off your water so the damage does not spread.
• Ventilate the area- open windows or use fans if electricity is safe.
• Remove as much damaged content as possible to begin drying elsewhere.
• Find a water damage remediation company that can do everything- a one-stop-shop.
  
  

Insurance Coverage

When you are forced to close down your business because your premises is too damaged from flooding or water damage, you may lose out on income and opportunity. Despite this, you will probably continue to have expenses related to the building, like utilities or maintenance staff. Luckily, you can add insurance coverage to your existing policy to compensate for these expenses and the value of the income you would have made if your business was still open. Be sure to clarify with your provider the amount of time you would be covered for- you probably want more than a few days.

Alternate Space

Large water damage can put you out of commission for a long time. One way around this is to find somewhere else to operate while the repairs and underway. Depending on your needs and how much of your equipment is available, you could temporarily rent a space to continue as much of your correspondence and dealings as possible.
Flooding and other water related perils can seem scary and unmanageable, but if you have a well thought out plan ready, you can slide through it just fine. Being prepared almost always pays off.

6 Indicators That Your Melbourne Home May Have Hidden Water Damage

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was caused by a local storm.

Six Indicators That You May Have Water Damage in Your Melbourne Residential Home 

Six Indications That You May Have Water Damage On Your Property

Because water can flow to any region of your property, it's very important to be cognizant of signs that could indicate the presence of Melbourne water damage in your residential living space. Here are six important indications that water damage is present on your property:

 1. Unpleasant Odors.

 One sign that Melbourne water damage may be on your property is unpleasant odors. In many cases, hidden water can stagnate and then produce bacteria and mold growth. This growth results in the emergence of an unwanted musty odor.

 2. Visual Signs Of Mold Growth.

 In many cases, mold spores make their way into hidden spaces within the property owner's home structure. Water does, too. When the moisture comes in contact with the dormant spores, mold growth can take place. If you come across any fuzzy discolorations in isolated regions of your living space, be sure to have a mold remediation professional evaluate them.

 3. Stains On Ceilings And Walls.

 The water that gets into your wall voids often manifests in the form of a blotch or stain.

 4. Peeling Paint.

 Another sign of water damage in Melbourne is peeling paint on the wall's exterior. The drywall can saturate and cause your paint to lose its adhesion.

 5. Sagging Ceilings And Walls.

 Saturated ceiling and drywall materials can become quite heavy due to the added weight of water. After some time, these home structures will begin to buckle and deform. Water-laden ceilings and walls can pose several safety hazards if they collapse.

 6. Floor Effects.

Water will constantly strive to move towards the lowest level and then seep beneath floor coverings such as vinyl, tile, and carpet. When this happens, the water will soak into your subfloor. In some cases, floor coverings like padding and carpet will have to be removed to dry the structure correctly.

If you note any of the signs above of water damage on your residential property, it's time to take action. The team to call for fast, effective water damage restoration services is SERVPRO. All of our IICRC-certified professionals offer a fast response, excellent customer service, and customized restoration modalities. Our deepest passion is restoring the client's property with skill and speed, and this is why we've become industry leaders with over 1,650 franchises.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of West Brevard is strategically located to respond quickly to your flood and water emergency event. Call us today! 321-953-8600

Flooding and Water Damage in Palm Bay does more than Destroy Property

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can cause health effects.

The Risks Associated with Flood and Water Damage in Melbourne.

Flooding and water damage in the Palm Bay area does more than destroy property; it creates an environment with numerous health risks. While anybody can be susceptible to these risks, certain segments of the population, like people with lung disease, children and the elderly, are at greatest risk.

Waterborne Dangers

Standing water is an ideal place for microorganisms, like bacteria, mold, and viruses, to breed. The chances of standing water becoming a breeding ground increases when the water damage contains toxins and sewage. The mold, viruses and bacteria created in this environment can become airborne.

The dangers are not eliminated after the flood water recedes, the contaminants still exist. 

Dampness is another risk worthy of concern. The dampness of household items, furnishings and even the building can create an environment that encourages the growth of mold, dust mites, microorganisms and cockroaches.

Why Cleanup After a Flood is Important

Cleaning up after a flood or water damage should be a priority. The clean up process should also be handled with care. Any items that get cleaned must be cleaned properly. Throw away anything that cannot get cleaned or is damaged beyond repair.

Excess moisture after a flood or water damage negatively impacts indoor air quality. Because of this, flooded areas need a thorough cleaning as soon as possible. Here are a few of the problems caused by moisture:

• Environment becomes perfect for the reproduction and growth of microorganisms that could cause health problems.
• Long-term exposure to humidity is ideal for the population of dust mites.

Anyone involved with cleaning up after a flood or water damage should wear proper attire that includes masks and gloves. Coming into contact with many of these contaminants can cause illness.

The Cleanup Process

No one enjoys cleaning up after a flood or water damage, but its importance cannot be overestimated. Depending on the severity of the water damage, the cleaning process can be an arduous task. Here are the necessary steps of that need to be taken.

1. Find the source of the leak and stop it. 
   
   
2. Figure out whose health could get affected
   
   Make it a point to protect those who are most vulnerable to illness. This group will include the elderly, people with compromised immune systems, people with chronic illnesses and children.
   
   
3. Determine the extent of the problem
   
   This involves identifying all of the areas that are affected by flood water or water damage.
   
   
4. Formulate a clean up plan
   
   The plan needs to involve removing water damaged items and furniture while protecting those involved in the clean up process. Any items that can be salvaged should be cleaned. Those that cannot be cleaned should get thrown away. Any items that sat in water for 24 to 48 hours needs to get thrown away. Once everything is clean, do a final check to assess the thoroughness of the task. Throughout the process, make sure everyone involved is wearing protective gear.
   
   It is important to not rely solely on air purification devices to get the job done. Proper cleaning and throwing away damaged items from water damage is the only way to clean after a flood.

SERVPRO of West Brevard proudly serves Melbourne, Satellite Beach, Melbourne Beach, Indialantic, Indian Harbour Beach, and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure caused by:

• Water Damage
• Fire Damage
• Disaster, Storm, and Flood Damage
• Mold Damage

Don't Forget About the Crawl Space After a Flood

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Be sure the spaces under your home are free of moisture and are dry!

As a homeowner, you do not want to deal with a messy and damaging flood. Unfortunately, high waters can damage or destroy Satellite Beach, FL, homes. If your house has recently been through a home flood, saving personal items, furniture, and valuables are likely high on your priority list. In addition to those things, don’t forget about the areas beneath your home.

Drain Standing Water Quickly

If your home has flood damage, you may find yourself feeling frustrated. While stress is common in emergency situations, you should not let it distract you from draining any standing water as soon as possible. The longer water remains inside your home, the more storm damage you can expect to have.

Here are ways to effectively remove standing water:

• Inspect the crawlspace for signs of water damage
• Utilize fans and ventilation techniques
• Check your sump pump to ensure it is working properly
• Add additional pumps to rapidly remove water
• Ask for professional assistance to seal wet areas

Apply the 48-Hour Rule

If you know about mold and mildew, you know they can grow quickly after a home flood. These can easily destroy the comfort, appearance, and also the value of your residence. To reduce mold growth, plan to remove excess moisture within 48 hours. It is important to note that moisture has a way of working its way into hidden places in your crawlspace. Even though space may seem dry, parts of it may remain wet. Don’t leave the condition of your home to chance. You should work with a qualified restoration company, such as SERVPRO of West Brevard. Our mold removal specialists can assess your home’s risk and work to contain unwanted mold growth.

Following a home flood, your living area may be your primary concern. You cannot, however, afford to forget about the crawlspace beneath your house. With some effort and the right restoration team, you improve your odds of returning your Satellite Beach, FL home to its pre-flood condition.

#ceilingmold #blackmold #wetceiling #westbrevard #how to remove black mold

How to File a Flood Insurance Claim

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

Steps To Filling a Flood Claim

The rain stopped, but the water level continued to rise. Flooding in Melbourne, FL, will always be a problem. The water ruined furniture, the carpet and seeped into the drywall. The house is in disrepair. You have flood insurance but are not sure how to file a claim. The steps listed below will get you on the right path to filing a flood claim and start the much-needed repairs on your home.

1. Report

Call your insurance agent immediately. Make sure to have on hand the following information:

• Name of the insurance company or agent
• Policy number
• Telephone number or email address to reach you at all times

An adjuster should contact you within 24 to 48 hours to schedule an appointment. Call your insurance agent if you do not hear from someone.

2. Document

The adjuster will want to see all the damage to the home. Separate the damaged items from the undamaged so that the adjuster will be able to find the best evidence. Take pictures of everything ruined, including walls, carpets, furniture and other items. Make a list of everything adding dates of purchase and value. Find receipts if possible.

3. Support

Complete a Proof of Loss statement. The Proof of Loss is the official document confirming that the amounts you claim are accurate. It should also include additional details or supporting documents you believe are relevant to the claim. File the Proof of Loss statement within 60 days of the flood. The National Flood Insurance Program and insurance company require this paperwork before making payment.
Filing an insurance claim after a flood can be both time consuming and stressful. The damage it takes on your pocketbook is another issue you would rather not worry over. Knowing the ins and outs of filing a flood claim can mean a faster way to get your money. A storm damage restoration specialist can make the process of filling out a flood claim a little easier.

4 Important Steps To Recovering From a Merritt Island Fire

11/26/2021 (Permalink)

If you have a fire incident in your home, time is of the essence when it comes to the fire damage restoration process.

If you have a fire incident in your home, time is of the essence when it comes to the fire damage restoration process. Certain steps should be taken immediately to prevent the damage from getting worse, and to lead you on a smooth and fast path to recovery.

Notify Your Insurance Provider
Because an insurance adjuster needs to assess the fire damage and take a valid inventory, contact your provider right away, and don't throw away any items, even if they seem beyond repair, until the adjuster has taken note of them.

Contact the Fire Damage Restoration Company
Merritt Island fire damage can spread to further areas of the house if not taken care of properly, so contact the fire restoration company as soon as you can. The company is open every day and can provide emergency services as well to ensure that your possessions are restored quickly from fire, vandalism, water, or smoke.

Water Removal
While you may breathe a sigh of relief once the firefighters water beats back the last flame, the unfortunate result is that you now have potential water damage on your hands. When soaked into flooring, furniture, walls and more, the moisture quickly turns into mold and mildew, as well as rusting appliances and rotting wood. A wet-dry vacuum, air-moving machine, or even just leaving your windows open can help alleviate some of the damage, but a water restoration company, like SERVPRO of West Brevard, will remove up to 95 percent. They use advanced extractor equipment without disturbing your possessions or lifting the carpet.

Odor Removal
Prolonged exposure to smoke can cause a variety of lung and health problems, and simply opening the window won't be effective in the long run. Smoke particles can cling to everything in your house: furniture, ceilings, walls, etc. One major smoke target is your HVAC system, especially the air ducts, which can release the particles back into your rooms long after the fire is gone. A professional company, like SERVPRO, is required to get rid of the odor, and they do so by using an ozone machine that breaks down all the smoke particles.

Final Thoughts
As a homeowner, you want what's best for your home. By utilizing Merritt Island fire damage restoration experts, you can rest assured that your home will be as close to its original pre-fire state as quickly and efficiently as possible.

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Moisture and Mold Prevention Tips

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

Be proactive and prevent mold from growing in your Melbourne house by following these simple practice daily/weekly.

After the remediation and reconstruction is completed, facility managers and homeowners must commit to a mold-free environment by taking the necessary steps to prevent a recurrence mold contamination. Integrate the following practices into your Melbourne, FL, building management plan or Florida home maintenance practices.

• Moisture control is the key to mold control. When water leaks or spills occurs indoors – Act Quickly. If building materials, wet or damp, are dried within 24 to 48 hours after the leak or spill occurred, in most cases mold will not grow.
• Maintain all painted surfaces on exterior wood surfaces
• Clean and repair roof gutters regularly. Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation, so the water does not enter or collect around the foundation.
• Keep Air-conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flossing property.
• Keep indoor humidity low. If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60 percent (Ideally between 30 and 50 percent) relative humidity. Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter, a small, inexpensive instrument available at many hardware stores
• Do not carpet bathroom and utility rooms. Remove and replace flooded carpets.
• Strive for positive building pressure to reduce infiltration of humid, hot air.
• Avoid impermeable vinyl or other impermeable coverings on the interior building surfaces.
• Install vapor barriers based on climate.
• Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as clothes dryer, stoves, and kerosene heaters to the outside where possible.
• Use air conditioners and/or dehumidifiers.
• Run the bathroom fan or open the window when showering. Use exhaust fans or open window whenever cooking, running the dishwasher and dishwashing, etc.

Categorization of Water Damage

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Drying floors and the walls is important for preventing more extensive damage.

Every homeowner dreads the potentiality of water damage in his or her home. The risk of water damage increases after a heavy rain or when snow melts quickly. This problem can cost a homeowner thousands of dollars by damaging wood furniture, upholstery, electronics, household appliances, and plumbing equipment.

Significant water damage can also cause other problems in your home. For example, water damage will increase your risk of mold growth, which is very expensive to remedy.

If you do run into water damage problems in your home, it’s important that you quickly call SERVPRO to restore your home. SERVPRO will send experienced workers to your home that know the best ways to repair your damaged items and help with any water damage cleanup.

There are several issues that can cause water damage that would force you to acquire the services of a water restoration company. These include but are not limited to a leaky dishwasher, clogged toilets, broken pipes, broken dishwasher hoses, overflowing washing machine, leaky roof, plumbing leaks, and foundation cracks. In addition to water damage in your house, floods, heavy snow, and heavy rain can also lead to the collection of water in your basement.

If you do end up suffering from water damage, it’s very important that you address the problem immediately so the cleanup process can begin as soon as possible. Immediately beginning the process will significantly increase the likelihood of saving water-soaked furniture, carpets, rugs, clothing, and other items that might be damaged by the situation.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets the standards for the cleaning industry and water damage restoration. They have placed water damage into three categories and four classes for liquid detection.

When you suffer water damage, the damage will be placed into one of three categories. These categories explain what type of water is causing the damage, how much of a threat the water causes to the health of humans, and potential causes of the damage.

Category one water damage is the least serious of the three categories. In this instance, you’re dealing with clean water, which doesn’t pose a threat to humans. The liquid in this category comes from appliances such as faucets, toilet tanks, and drinking fountains. So causes of category one water damage can be broken appliances or sink overflows.

Category two water damage is the appearance of gray water, contaminated water that contains microorganisms and may cause sickness if ingested by humans.  Causes of category two water damage can be broken toilets, broken sump pumps, or seepage.

Category three water damage is the most serious case of water damage. In this category, black water makes an appearance. Black water is unsanitary as it contains bacteria and other organisms that can cause sickness or potentially death if ingested. Causes of category three water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

In addition to categories, water damage is also put in classes. These classes state how difficult the repair of the damage will be. Knowing the class of water damage is important for assessing the water damage repair options.

The least harmful form of damage is class one. This is the easiest damage to repair because it has a slow evaporation rate. In these cases, only part of a room was affected, little or no carpet has gotten wet, and the moisture only affects materials that have low permeance like plywood or concrete.

Class two water damage has a fast evaporation rate and affect an entire room. In this class, carpets and cushions have been saturated, moisture has accumulated on walls up to 12 inches, and moisture has collected in structural materials. Repairs of this type of damage are more difficult.

Class three water damage has the fastest evaporation rate. This type of damage involves the saturation of ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, and sub-floors. In class three water damage situations, the liquid may have come from overhead as opposed to ground level.

The most difficult class of water damage to repair is class four.  These situations require specialty drying because there has been enough liquid and time that it has saturated materials with very low permeance like hardwood, brick, and stone.

Suffering water damage to your home can be a difficult experience. If a situation occurs where your home is damaged by water, it’s important that you contact SERVPRO as soon as possible to fully restore your home.

Common Causes of Commercial Water Damages

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

Water loss in Melbourne Beach at a commercial location, with drying chamber built.

Is your Melbourne, FL business at risk?

If you run a commercial business, it makes good business sense to keep your property in pristine, working condition. While there are numerous factors you must do to realize this objective, understanding the basics of commercial Melbourne water damage is particularly important. Lessen the chance of a negative impact on your property and business by frequently inspecting the below points. 

Common Causes Of Water Damage:

1. Plumbing issues, old solder joints, eroding pipes
2. Roof or foundation failures
3. Malfunctioning appliances, especially in restaurants, and laundromats
4. Water back-up, clogged drain lines or sewage systems
5. Weather-related flooding from storms or hurricanes
6. HVAC problems, poor circulation resulting in high moisture levels and condensation
7. Fire extinguishing work completed by firefighters can lead to substantive water damage. 

The Dangers Of Water Damage. There are a wide range of problems that can surface if you have water damage in your Melbourne or Viera business and do not resolve the issue immediately. A quick removal process can also decrease the amount of time your business is closed. Standing water, or heavily water-logged drywall, drop ceilings, and insulation must be removed ASAP to help the drying process of the interior of the structure. One of the more prevalent problems is a mold infestation. These fungi, from the spores present in the environment, thrive in places that are damp or wet. Mold can expose employees, clients, customers, and adjacent business populations to unwanted health complications.

Some of them include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Wheezing
• Eye problems
• Asthmatic attacks
• Allergies
• Asthma
• Sinus infections 

In many cases, business owners recognize signs of commercial water damage and want to correct the issue immediately. However, this is not the appropriate course of action if there is a significant volume of water, musty odor from mold, or non-identified water intrusion source. In fact, you could deepen the damages to your property by attempting to complete the cleanup process without the assistance of trained professionals from SERVPRO of West Brevard. In addition to missing invisible signs of water damage that can weaken the property's structural integrity if undetected, attempting to complete the restoration process can expose you to numerous health hazards, and slower reopening of your place of business. Call SERVPRO of West Brevard for effective commercial water damage services. From initial assessment and inspection to completion, with documentation of drying, we will have our IICRC-certified professionals work with diligence and dedication to get your commercial property in West Brevard, back to pre-water damage condition.

Fire Safety Equipment: Five Pieces You Need for Your Home

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Our homes may be our sanctuaries, but they also present multiple opportunities for fire danger. An unattended stovetop can result in a kitchen fire, while electrical systems and appliances can overheat. Fireplaces, candles, flammable liquids, and outdoor grills — to name just a few — all add to the risk.

Having the correct fire safety equipment in your house is essential to keep your family safe and your home protected. This article highlights the five most important pieces of equipment needed to safeguard your home and loved ones. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re prepared is worth the time, effort, and expense involved.

Smoke Alarms

This is your first line of defense. According to the Red Cross, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires all new homes to have inter-connected hard-wired smoke alarms with battery backup. If you don’t have an interconnected system, battery-powered alarms are easily installed. Both types of alarms need to be located on every level of the home with one inside each bedroom.

Fire Extinguishers

Since most home fires start in the kitchen, you’ll want to put a fire extinguisher in there, at a minimum. But it’s recommended to place them in multiple locations around the house. Since extinguishers from various makers all work differently, it’s a good idea for the adults in the household to get training from the local fire department. Extinguishers should be installed near exits, away from heat sources, and up high enough that kids can’t reach them.

Sprinkler Systems

While a smoke alarm will detect smoke, an automatic sprinkler system gives you a way of dealing with flames immediately. While you’re waiting on the fire department to arrive, sprinklers can help slow a fire’s progress or can even douse it completely. Moreover, a sprinkler system can prevent deadly gases and smoke from affecting your family and could also extinguish a fire that breaks out while you’re away from home.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

There’s a good reason carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer.” This deadly gas is invisible, odorless, and colorless and even a small amount can be fatal if inhaled for long enough. Install carbon monoxide alarms on each level of your home and outside bedrooms. If the alarm emits its high-pitched warning, get outside as quickly as possible or open windows and doors and take deep breaths of fresh air. CO poisoning can cause headaches, nausea, and tiredness and can be mistaken for flu.

Fire Escape Ladders

If your home has more than one floor, collapsible fire ladders should be a part of your fire-safety arsenal. Place a ladder where it’s easy to access in every upper-level room in case your evacuation route gets cut off by smoke or fire. Then, have the entire family rehearse the steps they would take to get the ladders out and attached to open windows.

No one wants to dwell on the possibility of their family being in danger or their home being consumed by flames, but this is one situation where being properly prepared could save lives and property. If you haven’t already done so, make an escape plan and go over it with your family. And check your homeowner’s insurance to make sure your policy is up to date with adequate coverage.

Water Damages and Commercial Properties

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

Waterborne Dangers in Commercial Properties

Standing water is an ideal place for microorganisms, like bacteria, and viruses, to breed. The chances of standing water becoming a breeding ground increases when the water damage contains toxins and sewage. Even if the floodwater comes from a clean source, the microorganisms that breed.

Dampness is another risk worthy of concern. The dampness of household items, furnishings, and even the building can create an environment that encourages the growth of mold, dust mites, microorganisms, and cockroaches.

Why Cleanup After a Flood is Important

Cleaning up after a flood or water damage should be a priority. The cleanup process should also be handled with care. Any items that get cleaned must be cleaned properly. Throw away anything that cannot get cleaned or is damaged beyond repair.

Excess moisture after a flood or water damage negatively impacts indoor air quality. Because of this, flooded areas need thorough cleaning as soon as possible. Here are a few of the problems caused by moisture:

The environment becomes perfect for the reproduction and growth of microorganisms that cause health effects.
Long-term exposure to humidity is ideal for the population of dust mites.
Anyone involved with cleaning up after a flood or water damage should wear proper attire that includes masks and gloves. Coming into contact with many of these contaminants can cause illness.

The Cleanup Process

No one enjoys cleaning up after a flood or water damage, but its importance cannot be overestimated. The health of everyone who lives in the home may be affected. Depending on the severity of the water damage, the cleaning process can be an arduous task. Here are the necessary steps that need to be taken.

1. Find the source of the leak and stop it.
2. Figure out who could get affected
3. Determine the extent of the problem
4. Formulate a cleanup plan

The plan needs to involve removing water-damaged items and furniture while protecting those involved in the cleanup process. Any items that can be salvaged should be cleaned. Those that cannot be cleaned should get thrown away. Any items that sat in water for 24 to 48 hours needs to get thrown away. Once everything is clean, do a final check to assess the thoroughness of the task. Throughout the process, make sure everyone involved is wearing protective gear.

It is important to not rely solely on air purification devices to get the job done. Proper cleaning and throwing away damaged items from water damage is the only way to clean after a flood.

We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore your home or commercial structure caused by:

• Water Damage
• Fire Damage
• Disaster, storm, and flood damage
• Mold Damage

Safeguarding Your Business From Storm Destruction

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

How to Fortify Your Building

When a major storm event such as a hurricane is barreling towards your business, time is of the essence in preparing your commercial building. Flood water from heavy rains can cause tremendous damage to an unsecured structure and force you to close your doors for weeks or months while you undergo an extensive restoration process. Protect your business in Satellite Beach, FL, from the devastation of a storm by following a few simple guidelines to fortify your building.

1. Watch the weather.

One of the most important steps in preventing a flooded building is also one of the simplest – pay attention to your local weather forecasts and take any severe weather or flash flooding alerts seriously. Use the advance warning to enact preventative measures like placing sandbags around the perimeter of your business and moving expensive electronic equipment to a higher level of the building.

2. Design an action plan.

When a storm is about to hit, every staff member needs to have a specific role in preparing your business to withstand the destruction. Assign tasks to each team member so nobody gets overwhelmed. For example, one person should be in charge of fortifying the building to keep out flood water, another person should take care of backing up important electronic data, and someone else should supervise a final evacuation drill.

3. Prepare for restoration.

Even a well-prepared business can sustain water damage if a storm is especially severe. That’s why it’s a good idea to have the contact information for a reputable commercial storm damage restoration company on hand in case you need professional assistance in the cleanup and repair process. Enlisting the help of an expert means you can reopen your doors faster than if you try to manage complex reconstruction yourself.

A storm heading towards your commercial building means you need to take immediate action in preventing flood water from destroying your livelihood. By staying calm and taking steps to safeguard your building, you can ensure your business will ultimately withstand the destruction of a severe weather event.

Five Preparedness Tips for Flooding

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

How to Prepare for the Possibility of Flooding

Storm season can certainly keep you on your toes. When you have a business in Viera, FL, it’s good to know how to prepare for the possibility of flooding. Here are five tips to help you be well prepared for anything a storm may send your way.

1. Have an Emergency Plan

A big part of preparing for flood damage is simply having a plan of action in place. Evacuation paths should be mapped, and those maps should be posted on every level of your building so that people know where to go in an emergency. Designate emergency responsibilities before the disaster occurs so that people know what is expected of them.

2. Waterproof Your Building

Even if your building is flooded during a storm, having a solid building envelope can lower your flood cleanup costs. Have your building inspected regularly to find cracks or spots that are worn so that you can get the necessary repairs.

3. Elevate Equipment and Furniture

Electrical equipment and furniture can both be damaged beyond repair during flooding. Elevate furniture, sockets, electrical panels, appliances and all wiring where floodwaters can’t get to them.

4. Have Sandbags Ready

A good way to stave off excess water is to put up barriers. Set sandbags near doors, windows and other vulnerable entry points to your building. Barriers may delay the flow of water enough that you can avoid storm damage altogether.

5. Update Your Insurance Coverage

It’s a smart idea to check your insurance policies periodically to make sure that all potential problems are covered. If you don’t have a policy that pays for services from storm cleanup experts, you may have to pay for a lot of damage out of pocket the next time a storm heads your way.

Flooding is a common occurrence when there is a storm in your area. By making sure your employees, your building and your insurance is adequately prepared, you can prevent a lot of damage and handle the problems that do occur with relative ease.

Bathroom Supply Lines

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

When is It the Time to Replace a Supply Line in Your Bathroom?

Many of your household appliances that use water require a supply line. Because they are so commonly used, supply line damage can cause some major issues. It is important to call a professional as soon as you notice an issue. This can help prevent water build up in your home in Melbourne Beach, FL. Changing these lines when needed may actually help you avoid problems later on. How do you know when it's time to replace it though?

Check the Warranty

You may find that many of these hoses come with a warranty. It really just depends on what type you have. Most plastic lines come with a 5-8 year warranty. This means that you are responsible for replacing it if anything happens to it after that time is up. Steel braided ones often have a lifetime guarantee. While they are generally more expensive than the plastic ones, the benefits may be worth the extra cost. Always ask the seller about the warranty before you decide to purchase.

Watch for Damage

Supply line damage may lead to some pretty serious problems, such as standing water or mold growth. This is why it is a good idea to have a professional come out if you notice a supply line leak. Always shut off the water if you see an issue. This could be anything from a small bathroom leak to pretty serious flooding. Turning off the water can help prevent further damage from happening in your home.

If you are still unsure whether you have supply line damage, it is best to call a professional restoration company to come take a look. They may be able to help you resolve a number of issues that arise in this type of situation, such as fixing the leak and cleaning up the water. If your line gets replaced, always ask what type of warranty you are getting so that you will be aware if any future problems occur.

Four Benefits of Hiring a Professional

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Residential and commercial water damage can be one of the most costly and challenging problems faced by those who own a property. From leaky toilets to general plumbing problems, there are a number of causes for flooding that often occurs. Although it may seem easy to clean and repair yourself, there are a few benefits to hiring a professional service to handle the task.

Prevent Mold Spores From Spreading

A water damage professional is skilled and trained to properly clean areas where water has leaked in between walls, under floorboards, and in places that are hard to reach. This can help salvage areas that would need to be replaced if proper cleaning didn't take place immediately. In locations where mold has developed, the professional can properly clean it with the right tools and prevent the spores from spreading.

Avoid Further Damage

For those who are inexperienced with cleaning or restoring areas where the water damage has occurred, it can be easy to make the problem worse and allow it to escalate if it's not remedied immediately. Professionals will be able to visit the property right after the Palm Bay mold damage has occurred to prevent further problems from developing.

Identify Hidden Signs of Moisture

A water damage professional will be able to use sophisticated moisture tools to identify hidden signs of moisture that are often undetectable to homeowners. They can also take specific steps to prevent water damage from occurring again in the future.

Quality Restoration Services

Water damage professionals will be able to restore and replace insulation or flooring for a final product that looks incredible with the highest quality of materials used.

What should I do when my property in Viera is affected by water damage?

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Will Get You Back into Your Home After Water Damage

When water damage impacts your home in Viera, FL immediately addressing the issue is important. Once the initial damage has occurred, water can make its way into the structure of your property. If not acted upon quickly, the result can be extensive structural damage coupled with the onset of mold and mildew. However, immediately reacting to the water damage can help limit secondary water damage. This will save you not only time and money, but also precious possessions. To expedite the remediation process contact a water damage restoration company like SERVPRO. Learn more about water damage and why attaining professional assistance is important by reviewing this short outline:

Water Damage: A Brief Overview

Water damage is the result when your property is impacted by a natural disaster such as a flood, fire, or tornado. Water damage can also occur due to household issues like leaky faucets or pipes that burst. Causing structural damage to your property because of unwanted water intrusion can generate a number of other challenges:

• Poor air quality
• Mold and mildew growth
• Humid atmosphere
• Unpleasant odors that permeate your ceilings, floors, and walls
• Damage or loss of furnishings, art, electronics and more

Mitigate the loss of possessions and structural damage by getting SERVPRO to begin water removal and cleanup as soon as possible.

Why You Should Call A Water Damage Specialist

Calling a specialist as soon as your property is impacted by water damage is important for many reasons. First, SERVPRO will perform a thorough assessment of your property to determine the nature and extent of the damage. This work empowers the specialists to develop a detailed, customized clean-up plan that will help optimize and expedite the restoration process. Additionally, SERVPRO can send multiple contractors to your property quickly to start the restoration process.

The Importance Of The Drying Process

After water pumps have removed the standing water, then vacuums, powerful air-moving machines, and dehumidifiers will eliminate the balance of water and moisture. With fast action and the right equipment, you can often lessen the need to replace hardwood floor, carpet, and walls. You can also minimize stains and bad odors that result from mold and mildew.

Acting immediately upon the onslaught of water intrusion is the most important step to take. Calling a team of professional water damage restoration experts like SERVPRO should be done right after reaching out to your insurance company. Here at SERVPRO, we're trained in offering a fast response that helps ensure that your home in Viera, FL is restored with lightning speed. "Like it never even happened." We're also pleased to provide all of our customers with 24/7 emergency services.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of West Brevard is locally owned and operated. When you have a water or flooding emergency, we’re nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Brevard county community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

We proudly serve Melbourne, FL, Rockledge, FL, and surrounding areas.

Call us at: (321) 953-8600

What a Disaster Recovery Team Can Do

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

When a large storm hits, your clients may be in need of a local disaster recovery team in their Melbourne, FL, area. A professional restoration service, such as SERVPRO, may be able to help. A recovery team has the ability to do a few things that may be just what your clients need. They include the ability to:

Respond to Larger Than Normal Damages

Sometimes storm damage may be larger than predicted. When this happens, you may want a team of restoration professionals who can respond to your client's needs quickly. Fortunately, SERVPRO is a locally owned and operated franchise capable of working together with other SERVPRO teams to get the job done. However, as they are a franchise, they can call on corporate for additional resources as needed.

Provide a Quick Response Time

When it comes to disaster recovery, you may want to know that you can get a quick storm response team to your clients. The faster damage can be protected and then repaired, the less likely additional damage may occur. The ability to get a team to the site in a timely manner may save time and money in the long run. SERVPRO has local offices around the country allowing them to have professionals available at most locations.

Provide the Tools Necessary for Large Repair Jobs

In the event of a large disaster, it may be determined at large equipment is required to perform the job efficiently. A restoration team such as SERVPRO has access to the tools of the trade. This means that even in the case of a severe storm or major flooding, they can still begin restoration quickly.

A professional restoration service may be able to with any disaster recovery needs your clients may have. They usually have the ability to mobilize several teams for larger than normal damages. This may also include a faster response time. A professional team also has the resources, including tools and equipment, necessary to deal with large jobs.

#ceilingdamage #fastresponsewaterremoval #ceilingissuesrepairs

Three Things You Should Know if Your Building is Damaged By Flood Water

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

During a storm in Palm Shores, FL, it is possible that your building may be damaged by flood water if the weather becomes severe. Because this is not quite the same as other water damage, you may be unsure of how to deal with it. The following is some information about this type of water that might be helpful to you.

1. Why is a Flood Different From Other Water Damage?

The reason that flood water is different from others is largely due to how it accumulates. While most water damage, such as that from leaks or broken pipes, comes from above, the water in a flood rises from the ground. As it does, it becomes category 3 water.

2. What is Category 3 Water?

When it comes to water contamination, there are three categories. Category 3 or black water, which includes water from a flood, has the highest levels of contamination. Because this water comes up from the ground, it mixes with dirt, debris and sewage. When this happens, it begins to carry waste, bacteria and harmful chemicals that can be hazardous to your health.

3. How Should You Handle It?

Because flood water is highly contaminated, it is not a good idea to try removing it on your own. Instead, you should hire a professional to thoroughly clean and sanitize the building. Any food or beverages that have been in contact with this water should be thrown away as they are no longer safe to consume. Protective gear should be worn at all times while handling category 3 water.

If your building has been affected by water or storm damage of any kind, you should have it taken care of right away to prevent it from becoming worse. If allowed to sit, moisture can contribute to mold growth and can cause materials to weaken. A professional cleanup and restoration company can sanitize the area, perform necessary repairs and salvage many affected items.

Homeowners Insurance & Water Damage Coverage

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Homeowners insurance is useful in times of an emergency. Insurance allows you to avoid having to pay out-of-pocket for expenses that are related to damage to your home. Submitting a claim after your home is damaged by water helps you recover money spent on repairs. However, it is important to know that there are positive and negative points to filing a water damage insurance claim has its good points and bad points.

Water Damage Coverage

Your insurance company covers certain types of water damage. In most instances, the insurance company will cover any damage that is the result of a sudden event. For example, if the broken dishwasher leaks water and causes any water damage, you are covered by your policy. But, any damage that results from a dishwasher that malfunctions because of inadequate maintenance or neglect will not get covered.

No Coverage

An issue that homeowners face that is not covered by a regular homeowner’s insurance policy is flood damage. If a local river overflows and floods your home, the flooding is not covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. You will need to purchase a separate insurance policy to cover flooding. This type of insurance is advised for anyone living in an area prone to flooding.

Water damage is covered by homeowners insurance

Unfortunately, there are some limitations to this coverage. An accident that occurs suddenly will likely get covered. However, flood damage that arises from poor maintenance is not covered by your policy. It is important to know that you may find yourself disagreeing with your insurance company about the nature of your water damage. An incident that you believe is the result of a sudden accident may not get viewed as such by your insurer. Your insurance company may argue that the damage was caused by improper maintenance of your home.

If you need help with flood damage in West Melbourne. Please allow us to be of assistance, give us a call at (321) 953-8600.

Why SERVPRO When Disaster Happens

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

When a large storm hits, your clients may be in need of a local disaster recovery team in their Melbourne Village, Florida area. A professional restoration service, such as SERVPRO, may be able to help. A recovery team has the ability to do a few things that may be just what your clients need.

Respond to Larger Than Normal Damages

Sometimes storm damage may be larger than predicted. When this happens, you may want a team of restoration professionals who can respond to your client's needs quickly. Fortunately, SERVPRO is a locally owned and operated franchise capable of working together with other SERVPRO teams to get the job done. However, as they are a franchise, they can call on corporate for additional resources as needed.

Provide a Quick Response Time

When it comes to disaster recovery, you may want to know that you can get a quick storm response team to your clients. The faster damage can be protected and then repaired, the less likely additional damage may occur. The ability to get a team to the site in a timely manner may save time and money in the long run. SERVPRO has local offices around the country allowing them to have professionals available at most locations.

Provide the Tools Necessary for Large Repair Jobs

In the event of a large disaster, it may be determined at large equipment is required to perform the job efficiently. A restoration team such as SERVPRO has access to the tools of the trade. This means that even in the case of a severe storm or major flooding, they can still begin restoration quickly.

A professional restoration service may be able to with any disaster recovery needs your clients may have. They usually have the ability to mobilize several teams for larger than normal damages. This may also include a faster response time. A professional team also has the resources, including tools and equipment, necessary to deal with large jobs.

#fastresponsedisasterteam #disastercleaning #restoration #SERVPROofWestBrevard

SERVPRO of West Brevard Fire Services

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

Mitigation requires quick action.  The faster SERVPRO of West Brevard professionals arrive on-site to perform fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration, the better the results - including lower claim costs.  SERVPRO of West Brevard professionals can be on-site quickly to help ensure a fire damage is handled properly by utilizing the following services:

Structural Cleaning

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning.  We will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found within the structure.

Contents Cleaning

All of the restorable contents in the affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized.  This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery.  Additionally, all of the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition.  This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, and much more.  Finally, SERVPRO professionals can provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items for agents and their policyholders.

Deodorization

SERVPRO professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left behind by fire or smoke damage.  SERVPRO professionals do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek out the sources of the odor and remove them.

If your home or business is in need of fire or smoke related services, call SERVPRO of West Brevard at (321) 953-8600.

Broken pipes in your business could permanently close your doors

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding in an office space.

How To Limit the Interruption To Your Business While Dealing With Water Damage

For a commercial property owner, your worst nightmare might go something like this: an event beyond your control, like flooding, forcing your building to shut down causing your business to hemorrhage money and lose out to competitors. If such a disaster were to occur in your Palm Bay business would you be prepared?

Short Delay

If a scenario like a broken pipe flooding your commercial building occurs, you're going to need time to restore your property. Unfortunately, this could halt or slow down your operation for a period of time. However, there are ways you can try to expedite this process:

• Turn off your water so the damage does not spread.
• Ventilate the area - open windows or use fans if electricity is safe.
• Remove as much damaged content as possible to begin drying elsewhere.
• Find a water damage remediation company that can do everything - a one-stop-shop.

Insurance Coverage

When you are forced to close down your business because your premises are too damaged from flooding or water damage, you may lose out on income and opportunity. Despite this, you will probably continue to have expenses related to the building, such as utilities or maintenance staff. Luckily, you can add insurance coverage to your existing policy to compensate for these expenses and the value of the income you would have made if your business were still open. Be sure to clarify with your provider the amount of time you would be covered for - you probably want more than a few days.

Alternate Space

Large water damage can put you out of commission for a long time. One way around this is to find somewhere else to operate while the repairs and underway. Depending on your needs and how much of your equipment is available, you could temporarily rent a space to continue as much of your correspondence and dealings as possible.

To ensure your business is up and running as soon as possible, call SERVPRO of West Brevard immediately at (321) 953-8600!

#waterdamage #waterdamagecleanup #palmbaywaterdamage

Mold and Hotel Properties

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Hidden mold in your hotel?

We know how serious mold is, especially in your Brevard property

Short-term guests are the staple to many locations along the coast. While you can offer a memorable experience in this limited time frame, you also only have a brief period to make a positive impression. The proper upkeep and maintenance of your facility is vital for this effort and requires routine inspections of potentially problematic areas following all storms the hurricane season has to offer.

Roof vulnerabilities are not always as apparent as business owners might think and hidden leaks or moisture seepage into attics can lead to mold damage for structures. Caring for your bed and breakfast is often the same as the care you must put into a large family home, and the remediation and water damage recovery works similarly. We are qualified professionals capable of handling all phases of remediation and restoration, including being a licensed full-service general contractor.

Because attics do not always get the inspection and assessment that they should throughout the year, moisture and dampness often go unchecked for weeks or longer following substantial storms. When colonization has persisted for this extended period, a degree of controlled deconstruction and later reconstruction is likely necessary.

How your guests perceive this threat is vital to your reputation and continued word-of-mouth and online rating success. Choosing capable remediation professionals like our SERVPRO team ensures that appropriate containment measures get installed and work continues steadily until the threat has been removed.

Your business succeeds by making people feel at home and a situation like mold damage can significantly compromise your ability to achieve this. SERVPRO of West Brevard can help you to get things back to a pre-mold condition and protect your staff and guests from any potential hazards and health effects that could result. Give us a call today at (321) 953-8600.

#moldcleanupathotels #moldinairbnb #hotelmold #SERVPROwestbrevard

Why Choose SERVPRO of West Brevard

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO leaves every area clean.

When you heard construction crews were coming into your home to work, you may have the fear of dust going everywhere, debris left behind, unprofessional teams, and jobs not completed in a timely manner. And that is why SERVPRO of West Brevard is different. Here are some of the other reasons why we are different:

• Our teams are professional and on time.
• We cover all areas we are working in to keep dust off and prevent further damage to your items.
• Our teams are on call 24/7 to respond to any disasters.
• We are certified and carry licenses to ensure your mitigation, remediation, or reconstruction is done correctly.
• Our project managers ensure your peace of mind by keeping you updated as we progress.
• We work with your insurance and offer a transparent estimate.

SERVPRO of West Brevard is committed to you and making it feel "Like it never even happened."

#whySERVPROwestbrevard #topgoogleratingforwaterdamagecleanup #SERVPROWESTBREVARD

SERVPRO of West Brevard and Commercial Properties

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial property during reconstruction due to fire.

With your wares and building to worry about, our SERVPRO team has real-time mitigation solutions to protect your Brevard location

After a fire or water loss, you may not know the best approach to get your Brevard location back to preloss condition. Many rely on the fast and confident response of our SERVPRO of West Brevard technicians to help, as we are "Faster To Any Size Disaster", and feature a team of in-house commercial contractors for any reconstruction needs that might also exist. By getting to work quickly, we can often limit the spread and severity of loss conditions stemming from either water or fire emergencies.

No matter why you need restoration services for your location, the more that you know and understand the process, the more at peace you are with what must occur. There are many times where the restoration process can look worse than the damage did as your property is on the path to complete drying or in need of some degree of rebuilding after controlled demolition. What our professionals prioritize when mitigation first begins can help you to understand what to expect:

• Contents in the shop
• Structural damage
• Standing water
• Debris
• Residue removal

What if Reconstruction is Necessary?

Regardless of the loss incident that your shop might face, there are many situations where structural elements have become too compromised or ruined to preserve. After controlled demolition, it is up to our experienced in-house contractors to build back these areas of your property after mitigation completes. While we work to restore the property before choosing to replace certain structural elements, this is not always cost-effective or efficient to get your doors open again quickly.

Understanding the restoration process can help you see how our #SERVPRO of West Brevard team can help you in an emergency. Give us a call anytime you need us at (321) 953-8600

#commercialmoldfastremoval #officefirecleaning #SERVPROwestbrevard

Heating Your Home

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a fire in your home, SERVPRO is there to help. But we also want to help you prevent fires in your home.

Did you know that heating equipment is the leading cause of home fire deaths, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)? Cold temperatures during these winter months have led to people frequently using their heaters. Half of these heating equipment fires predictably take place in the winter months of December, January, and February when heating equipment is used the most.

Abiding by the following safety measures will keep yourself and your family safe from any potential dangers of using heaters in your home.

Stay Three Feet Away

One way to stay safe when heating your home is to keep flammable items at least three feet away from heating equipment. That includes a furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.

Enforce a Three-Foot Rule for Children

The curiosity of children can cause a problem if they focus their attention on one of these heating options. Wanting to explore the equipment, the child could accidentally catch on fire or start a fire in the house. Therefore it’s a good idea to have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around all open fires and space heaters.

Don’t Use Your Oven As a Heater

Never attempt to use your oven to heat your home. The inefficacy of an oven as it pertains to heating could cause it to go out or not burn well which could potentially lead to carbon monoxide poisoning endangering the lives of your whole family.

Use Only Qualified Professionals When Installing Heating Equipment

Make sure a qualified professional install your heating equipment. An inexperienced person installing your space heater, water heater, or central heating equipment could lead to serious mistakes that could potentially cause a fire. Hiring qualified professionals will ensure that the person installing your equipment adheres to local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

Get Your Annual Chimney Inspection

It’s important to have your heating equipment or chimney cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. In early 2000, the NFPA set a new standard that ensures that inspections include a thorough inspection and cleaning. Based on the purpose of the inspection (annual inspection, system change or real estate transaction, potential hazard) the inspector will inspect on one of three levels. The thoroughness of the inspection will increase at each level of the inspection.

Never Leave Portable Heaters On When Leaving a Room

Always turn off and unplug portable heaters when leaving a room or going to bed. Portable heaters can short out while you’re away and start a fire before you return.

Make Sure to Use Correct Fuel

Use the right kind of fuel when using fuel-burning space heaters. The manufacturer will specify which fuel that specific space heater will need. Using the wrong kind of fuel could cause the fuel to burn hotter than the equipment was designed for and could cause a fire in your home.

Use a Fireplace Screen

It’s important to make sure that your fireplace has a screen in front of it. Without a screen, sparks could fly into the room and start a fire. Also, if you plan to dispose of ashes in a metal container, ashes should be cooled prior to entering a metal container. The container should also be kept a safe distance away from your home.

Test Smoke Alarms Monthly

If a fire starts in your home in Viera, FL, a smoke alarm can save your life. Smoke spreads quickly and a properly working smoke alarm will give you enough time to get out. So make sure you test your smoke alarms each month. Also, make sure to replace your smoke detectors once every ten years.

Use Ventilation

When burning anything larger than a candle, make sure to provide good ventilation. You can do this by opening windows, doors, or fireplace fumes. Good ventilation will substantially reduce the amount of smoke that can be harmful to those in the home. 

On cold days heating is a must. But without the use of certain precautions, it can be a very dangerous decision. By following the safety measures highlighted by the NFPA, you can ensure that you will be warm and safe during the cold winter months.

#heatersafety #spaceheater #righttempforhome #heatertips #SERVPROofwestbrevard

Certifications and Professional Teams

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

If you’re in need of disaster repair SERVPRO of West Brevard team is here to help. Each and every one of our professionals are highly trained in property restoration to better serve our community. From initial and ongoing corporate training to regular e-training and continuing education classes, you can trust that your SERVPRO Professionals have the knowledge and experience to handle your disaster, no matter the size. 

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the governing body that sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. All members of the SERVPRO team study IICRC standards and best practices to know how to restore damaged properties correctly. The certifications include: 

Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT): This course covers mold and sewage remediation techniques and how to perform the proper procedures in the field to keep all workers and occupants safe.

Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD): Through this training, technicians learn how to dry water-damaged structures safely and efficiently.

Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT): This course covers pre-inspection, fabric identification, cleaning chemicals and equipment, and proper cleaning techniques.

Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT): Through this training, technicians learn about smoke and fire damage, job planning, equipment, odor concepts, and practical cleaning procedures in fire and smoke settings.

Odor Control Technician (OCT): This course covers odor control, odor causes, and deodorization techniques.

Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician (UFT): Throughout this training, technicians go over fiber identifications and upholstery cleaning methods.

Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT): During this course, trainees learn about the concepts of water damage, its effects in different settings, and procedures to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination.

At SERVPRO, we understand that having the knowledge and training to handle an array of damages and disasters is crucial to meeting and exceeding the needs of our customers when the restoration is required. Our extensive SERVPRO training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training: This voluntary, self-paced program allows our professionals to learn more about crew training, fire restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and mold mitigation.
• Initial Franchise Training: This 15-day hands-on course at our training facility allows new franchise owners to master topics such as fire restoration and mold mitigation.
• e-Learnings: Through this web-based training, team members can stay up-to-date on industry standards and professional quality.
• Continuing Education Classes: These programs are designed for insurance agents, adjusters, real estate professionals, and franchise staff to learn more about emergency mitigation.

As your Melbourne disaster repair professionals, you can trust that we have the equipment and personnel to handle your cleanup and restoration needs. Often people will try to tackle their flood, mold, or fire issues without realizing that they will most likely do more harm than good without the appropriate technology and safety procedures. When you work with SERVPRO, you can trust that our services will restore your damaged property, while also keeping you, your family, and your belongings safe. Regardless of the cause or source, our team can handle any sized disaster.

Since 1967, SERVPRO has been changing the restoration and mitigation industry. To better serve our customers, SERVPRO created the National Training Center in 1992 to teach restoration and mitigation skills to franchise owners and insurance industry employees. Through professional training, our team is uniquely positioned and qualified to help when disaster strikes. Not only is our team trained in the most extensive performance guidelines in the industry, but we're also the ones who created them.

As a homeowner, having a certified team completing your damage restoration ensures that your home is safe and sound for you and your family. From your carpet to your ceiling and everywhere in between, our team has the expertise and tools so that you don’t have to worry about safety when playing with the kids on your living room carpet or preparing dinner on your kitchen counters. Whether it’s mold or fire that affects your home, our team will restore each and every piece to its pre-damage glory.

To learn more about our services, training, certifications, or processes, contact your Melbourne disaster restoration professionals today!

#certifiedwestbrevardmoldremoval #professionalrestoration #certifiedinsuranceapprovedwaterremoval #SERVPROofwestbrevard

Water Damage and Homeowner Insurance

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Homeowner's insurance is useful in times of an emergency. Insurance allows you to avoid having to pay out-of-pocket for expenses that are related to damage to your home. Submitting a claim after your home is damaged by water helps you recover money spent on repairs. However, it is important to know that there are positive and negative points to filing a water damage insurance claim has its good points and bad points.

Water Damage Coverage

Your insurance company covers certain types of water damage. In most instances, the insurance company will cover any damage that is the result of a sudden event. For example, if the broken dishwasher leaks water and causes any water damage, you are covered by your policy. But, any damage that results from a dishwasher that malfunctions because of inadequate maintenance or neglect will not get covered.

No Coverage

An issue that homeowners face that is not covered by a regular homeowner’s insurance policy is flood damage. If a local river overflows and floods your home, the flooding is not covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. You will need to purchase a separate insurance policy to cover flooding. This type of insurance is advised for anyone living in an area prone to flooding.

Water damage is covered through homeowner’s insurance

Unfortunately, there are some limitations to this coverage. An accident that occurs suddenly will likely get covered. However, flood damage that arises from poor maintenance may not covered by your policy. It is important to know that you may find yourself disagreeing with your insurance company about the nature of your water damage. An incident that you believe is the result of a sudden accident may not get viewed as such by your insurer. Your insurance company may argue that the damage was caused by improper maintenance of your home.

If you need help with flood damage in Rockledge, FL call our teams of professionals at (321) 953-8600.

#waterdamage #homeownerinsuranceandwaterdamage #Rockledge #SatelliteBeach #SERVPROofWestBrevard

Preventing Christmas Tree Fires

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Christmas is just around the corner and many people love having a Christmas tree up. 

But did you know? 

• Between 2013-2017, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of three deaths, 15 injuries, and $10 million in direct property damage annually.
• On average, one of every 52 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 135 total reported home fires.
• Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in 44% of home Christmas tree fires.
• In one-quarter (25%) of the Christmas tree fires, some type of heat sources, such as a candle or equipment, were too close to the tree.
• One-fifth (21%) of Christmas tree fires were intentional. 
• Roughly three-quarters of Christmas tree fires occurred in December or January.
• Two of every five (39%) home Christmas tree fires started in the living room.

A live Christmas tree burn conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows just how quickly a dried-out Christmas tree fire burns, with flashover occurring in less than one minute, as compared to a well-watered tree, which burns at a much slower rate.

Holiday decorations

• U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 780 home structure fires per year that began with decorations, excluding Christmas trees, in 2013-2017. These fires caused an annual average of three civilian fire deaths, 34 civilian fire injuries, and $12 million in direct property damage.
• Nine percent of decoration fires were intentional.
• The decoration was too close to a heat source such as a candle or equipment in more than two of every five (44%) fires.
• One-fifth (21%) of the decoration fires started in the kitchen. Sixteen percent started in the living room, family room or den.
• One-fifth (20%) of the home decoration fires occurred in December.  

Candles

• On average, 22 home candle fires were reported each day between 2013-2017.
• Three of every five (60%) candle fires started when something that could burn, such as furniture, mattresses or bedding, curtains, or decorations, was too close to the candle.
• Candle fires peak in December. January ranked second. Eighteen percent of December candle fires started in the living room and 8% started in the dining room compared to 14% and 3% for those areas during the rest of the year.
• The two peak days for candle fires were Christmas and Christmas Eve.

Holiday cooking

• Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve.

• Cooking equipment was involved in one of every five (19%) home decoration fires. This can happen when a decoration is left on or too close to a stove or other cooking equipment. 

Fireworks

• Ten percent of fireworks fires occur during the period from December 30 through January 3, with the peak on New Year's Day.

National Fire Protection Association - Christmas Fire Stats

Some tips on how to prevent a fire or damage during the holidays.

1. Pick a fresh-looking tree.
2. Keep the tree watered. 
3. Keep the tree away from heat. 
4. Shake the tree often to remove dried pines. 
5. Check the tree's lights look for burned bulbs.
6. Turn off your tree's lights when sleeping or not at home.
7. Get rid of your tree soon after the holidays.

We at SERVPRO of West Brevard are here to help. 

#christmastreefire #christmaslightfire #electricalfire #holidayfire #SERVPROwestbrevard

Careful Frying that Turkey!

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

With Thanksgiving around the corner and spending time with our families, many people like to deep fry their turkeys. Did you know that each year there are over 15 million dollars in loss due to fires caused by turkey deep fryers?

Some Tips:  

• Always check your fire extinguisher and make sure it is up to date and full. Keep the fryer at least 10 feet from your home. 
• Make sure the turkey is thawed and there are no ice crystals. 
• Make use of the propane tank that is far from the fryer.  
• Have your phone handy and charged in case of emergency. 
• If you have a fire happen, Call 911.  
• Use extinguisher if possible.  

After the fire is out, check your damages and call  SERVPRO of West Brevard and our professional teams will be available 24/7.   

https://youtu.be/WF9Y0PYiuFI

Is your dryer vent clean?

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Outside dryer vent full of lint!

So, what are the signs your vent needs cleaning?

As a homeowner in West Brevard, you're probably very diligent about fire safety. You may have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors on every floor, but have you checked your dryer vent lately? Many homes are damaged each year as the result of a lint fire. If the vent isn't cleaned out regularly, a dryer fire can result. 

1. Clothes Are Taking Too Long To Dry

If your vent is blocked, your clothes can take up to two or three times as long to dry. You may find that the clothes you put in for a regular drying time are still a little damp when the cycle is over. This is happening because the blocked vent isn't allowing the moisture to be released to the outside.

2. Hot Dryer and Clothes

A blocked vent can also cause excess heat. If your laundry feels unusually hot when you take it out, and the outside of the dryer feels very hot when you touch it, this could be the problem.

3. Burning Smell

If you smell something burning inside the dryer, that's a sure sign of trouble. The drum casing, exhaust tube, and trap can get clogged, which makes it easy for a lint fire to start. If you're smelling smoke, turn off the dryer immediately and call a professional right away to inspect it.

4. No Regular Inspections

Your dryer vent should be inspected at least once a year by a vent cleaning specialist. A do-it-yourself job is certainly an option, but hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done thoroughly. These technicians are well acquainted with all the various brands of dryers and have the proper equipment to efficiently clean out the vent.

A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage. But you can easily prevent a fire from happening by looking out for the signs outlined above.

#ventfires #dryerfire #SERVPROfirecleanup

House Flooding

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded kitchen floor due to pipe breaking.

Water flooding in your house, business, or place of work can happen at any time. Most of the reasons for flooding are due to pipes breaking, backed up septic tanks, water heaters. When those times happen we dry up the areas and think everything is dry and fine. But what most people do not realize is that moisture can be hidden behind walls, cabinets, and rugs. 

Here are some facts: 

• Mildew (mold in early stage) and molds grow on wood products, ceiling tiles, cardboard, wallpaper, carpets, drywall, fabric, plants, foods, insulation, decaying leaves, and other organic materials.
• Mold growths, or colonies, can start to grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours.
• It is not always visible right after it happens, meaning if you do not get a rapid response on the matter it will grow. 
• Even if you dry the area it can be wet behind walls.
• Bleach does not stop the growth behind the walls. 

What To Do After Flooding

• Turn off electric to the affected area.
• Call SERVPRO of West Brevard!
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after the removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Open exterior doors and windows.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

#waterfloodinginhouse #waterdamage #SERVPROofWestBrevard

Mold Can Grow in the Cleanest Areas

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth behind wallpaper.

Did you know mold does not need to be visible to be growing? Even in some of the cleanest areas, it can be behind walls.

Most common places are bathrooms, closets, around the AC handler, kitchens, garages, even some exteriors.  

Here are some facts:

• Mold can grow both indoors and outdoors.
• It can start with just moisture and a food source.
• It can grow anywhere inside your area without you seeing it. 
• Some of the most common areas for mold are around the AC handlers, water heaters, bathrooms, closets, and garage. 
• Drying out the area after it has been flooded will not stop the mold from growing.
• There are several types of molds.

Think you got mold growing in your home, business, or offices? Call our team of experts at SERVPRO of West Brevard!

#Mold #MoldGrowth #Moldy #SERVPROmold #MoldCleanup

Flooding and Why Time is Important

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

Many of us have experienced a leaky pipe, storm damage, backed up toilet, overflowed tub, and even septic back up. When a flood happens we rush to dry up the floor and clean the area. But what most do know is the moisture can cause mold to start growing. Did you know that mildew and mold will develop within 24-48 hours of water exposure?

Here are some important tips when floods happen. 

• Take photos of the flooded area from the outside area
• Shut off electric to the area flooded ( do not enter a flooded room with electric on ) 
• Try to dry most of it if possible  
• CALL our offices at 321-953-8600

SERVPRO of West Brevard will make it feel "Like it never even happened." 

Cleaning the Office After Flooding

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

If your commercial building experiences water damage, you should have a plan for salvaging as much of the contents of your building as you can. Dealing with a flooded company in Viera, FL, can be stressful, so ease your mind and find a water damage cleaning company you can trust.

Electronics

One important asset of many commercial office spaces are the electronics. If your space has experienced water damage, you may be tempted to wipe them off and turn them on to check on their status. However, it is very important that you do not turn on any electronics that have gotten wet. This task needs to be left to electronic technicians who know how to safely stop further corrosion and damage by dry cleaning the outside and working their way in. It is possible to salvage:

• Computers
• Television sets
• Printers
• DVD players

Documents

Especially if your records are not backed up digitally, you may have tons of important documents you are concerned about protecting in your flooded company. If your file cabinets have been doused, it is possible to save the papers within. There are various methods, depending on the type of document and the extent of the damage: freezer drying, dehumidification, air drying, vacuum thermal drying and vacuum freeze drying.

Surfaces

When it comes to the hard surfaces of your office, like desks and wood floors, there are many ways to go about cleaning them in the event of a broken pipe or flood. There are sprays, wipes, foams, abrasive methods, immersive methods, dry methods or wet methods, dependent on item and situation. Soft surfaces like carpet and ceiling tiles need to be dried immediately in order to avoid mold.

A flooded company is a company that isn't making any money, so it is in your best interest to get it back on its feet as quickly as you can. The best way to do that is to call in a service that knows what they are doing when it comes to water damage remediation. Call SERVPRO of West Brevard at (321) 953-8600.

Worried about flood damage affecting your building? Here’s What You Need to Know

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

Install storm shutters that are easy and quick to secure

What To Do When A Storm Is Headed Your Way?

Running a business in West Eau Gallie, FL, requires one to wear many hats, one of which is disaster prevention. When a storm is brewing on the horizon, what can you do to avoid or reduce flood damage from happening? Here’s a couple of tips to get you started:

Get to Know Your Local Area

Some locations are more susceptible to flooding than others, such as neighborhoods located in a valley, at the bottom of a slope or below sea level. This may seem self-explanatory and painfully obvious but you’d be surprised at how many business owners are unaware of how their location could impact their company in the event of a natural disaster. Find out if you are in a flood prone area and plan ahead.

Plan and Prepare with the Right Equipment

There are tons of modern equipment out there that are designed to minimize the impact of flood damage on your building. When in doubt, go with the tried and tested classic: the good ol’ sand bag. If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are plenty of alternatives out there that are reusable and are easier to transport. However, be sure to do your research before you commit to a purchase. Install storm shutters that are easy and quick to secure and check your electrical equipment to ensure they will be out of reach of flood waters.

Check Your Surroundings

Perhaps the most important part of avoiding storm damage is to look outside your immediate perimeter for things that may encourage floods. This means looking at street drains and storm grates and making sure that they are free of leaves and other debris that inhibit the flow of water. This is easily overlooked in the rush of preparing for an incoming storm and can have a disastrous impact on your safety.

If the weather gets the best of you, there are flood remediation experts in your state that can get your business up and running in no time. Flood damage is no joke, but if you are well prepared you can easily reduce the impact that a storm can have on your business.

Four Important Things to Remember About Mold

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

Bathroom sink mold damage in West Eau Gallie, FL

There are many varieties of fungus that can grow in your West Eau Gallie, FL, home. One of these is black mold. While this is a common problem, many people do not know much about this fungus. Knowing more about it can help you to handle it better. The following questions and their answers may be useful to you.

1. What is Mold?

Black mold is a fungus that spreads through the growth of spores. These can travel through the air as well as on your clothing and shoes. Because they are so small, you will not know that they are there until they form a larger growth or colony. They are present in most locations and can be found in a variety of environments.

2. What Causes it To Grow?

While the exact cause can vary, the simple answer is moisture. When mold has enough moisture, it can spread very rapidly. Depending on the severity of the moisture problem, you can have a large growth in your home in only a few days. However, even small amounts of moisture can allow this fungus to spread.

3. How Do You Get Rid of It?

If moisture causes mold to grow, then you might think that removing the water will be enough to solve the problem. However, mold will not go away on its own and will need to be removed. Attempting to do so on your own can cause mold spores to spread throughout your house, so it is better to get a mold remediation company to perform cleanup for you.

4. Can You Prevent It?

Luckily, there are some methods you can use to prevent black mold from growing. Keep humidity levels in your house low, through the use of open windows, exhaust fans or dehumidifiers. Be sure to clean regularly and perform maintenance to check for and repair leaks.

The best thing to do if you find mold in your home is to have mold cleanup done as soon as possible. Do not ignore it, as it will only get worse. For the best results, this should be done by a professional.

Home Electrical Fires

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

Melted plug caused by faulty wiring.

When a fire in a home happens we always blame it on a item we forgot to turn off. Did you know most of the time that is not the case. Here are some facts about home electrical fires.

Electrical Fire Facts

• In 2014-2018, electrical distribution or lighting equipment, such as wiring, lighting, cords, and plugs, was involved in an estimated average of roughly 34,000 (10%) reported home structure fires per year. These incidents caused an average of 470 (18%) civilian deaths, 1,100 civilian injuries (10%), and $1.4 billion (19%) in direct property damage annually.
• Electrical distribution or lighting equipment ranked first in direct property damage, and third among the major fire causes in the number of home fires, fourth in home fire deaths, and tied for third in home fire injuries. 
• Wiring and related equipment accounted for 7 percent of all home fires and nine percent of all home fire deaths.
• Cords or plugs were involved in only one percent of home fires but seven percent of the deaths. Extension cords dominated the cord or plug category.

Source: NFPA's Applied Research Department
NFPA- Fire Prevention

If you had a home electrical fire call SERVPRO of West Brevard.

Our professional teams can help you feel "Like it never even happened." 

#SERVPROofWestBrevard #electricalfirefacts #nfpa #firecleanupandrestoration

Does a flood mean new carpet?

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Extracting water from affected carpet.

Can my carpet be saved after water damage?

When you have a pipe break and an unexpected flood in your home, one of the biggest concerns is the damage to your floors, walls, and possessions. It behooves you to save as much as you can. It's not just economically sound, but environmentally smart, too. When your carpet gets soaked, can it be saved? The good news is that it often can be cleaned and kept. Consider the following factors:

• What is the source of the flooding water? If the water is non-contaminated or is grey water, the rug can be cleaned and used again. Grey water includes water from washing machines, dishwashers, bathtub or shower overflow, and toilet water with urine only.
• How long has the flooring been wet? Clean water becomes grey water after 24-48 hours, and grey water becomes black water after 24-48 hours. Black water is a source of fungus, bacteria, and other pathogens. Flooring saturated with black water must be replaced.
• Does the water have minimal contaminants? Water from a pipe break, hot water heater failure, or overflow from bathroom, kitchen, and utility sinks is considered clean water. Carpets soaked with this type of water can be cleaned and dried. The pads can also undergo a full restoration.

In instances where the water is grey, approaching black, it is advisable to clean the rug but replace the pad.

Be Aware of These Contaminants

There are some contaminants that are too toxic to mess around with. If your flooring is exposed to the following, you will need a full replacement:

• Water from sewage or storm drain backup

• Water with fecal matter, vomit, or other biological contaminants

• Water with heavy metals or chemicals
  
  

If you have a pipe break with significant flooding, let the professionals in Palm Shores, FL asses your flooring damage. A restoration and cleanup crew will make your home look "Like it never even happened."

Three Tips for Roof Repair After a Fire

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

It's often recommended that a fire cleanup be conducted by a professional restoration service.

Three Things You May Want To Know About Fire Cleanup

If your business and Viera, FL, has suffered roof damage as a result of a fire, when you may be looking for tips on how to go about a fire cleanup. Here are three things you may want to know.

1. Protect the Damaged Area

It's important to protect any damaged areas to your company property until repairs can be made. You may want to consider boarding over the damage or taking advantage of tarp services offered by your local fire restoration company. Doing so can help prevent inclement weather from making any damage worse, as well as prevent wild animals from getting into the property.

2. Contact a Professional

It's often recommended that a fire cleanup be conducted by a professional restoration service. This is largely due to the fact that a fire can cause a number of types of damage, and that these professionals have the tools and knowledge to look for and repair any related damages along with the original problem. A restoration service may also be able to communicate with your insurance company in order to provide them with information they may need to process your claim.

3. Understand Possible Related Damage

In many cases the initial damage caused by fire can lead to additional problems, and it's important to understand this when dealing with a fire restoration. After a fire you may be looking at water damage and flooding, as well as roof repair, smoke damage, and potential mold problems. Understanding that these issues can be related to a fire can help you take the appropriate safety and clean up steps.

When conducting a fire cleanup at your place of business it's important to remember these three things. Protect any damage areas against further damage until repairs can be made. Contact a local fire restoration company in order to have repairs completed as quickly as possible. Understand any damages related to fire such as water damage or flooding so that proper clean-up procedures can be taken.

Finding and Treating Mold in Your Commercial Property

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours

Did you know that your commercial building could have a mold problem without you even knowing it? Unfortunately, mold can grow in places that are not visible in a casual walk-through. Knowing what enables mold growth and common places it occurs can help you keep your business mold-free.

Where Mold Grows

Mold can grow anywhere it is warm and wet, but there are certain places that are more prone to mold infestations than others. Make sure you check the following areas in your building for mold:

• Ductwork
• Carpet
• Electrical equipment
• Paper-storage areas
• HVAC units (particularly drainage pans and terminal units)
• Ceiling tiles
• Masonry
• Walls (wallboards and inside cavity walls)
  
  

Mold can also result from high humidity, so be sure to keep the inside humidity low, ideally below 45%.

Mold Growth From Water Damage

Mold can begin growing as quickly as 24 hours after flooding, leaking or any other event that causes water damage to your property. Therefore, it is important to dry the water as soon as possible. Wet/dry vacuums, dehumidifiers and fans can all help with this process. Anything that cannot be fully dried should be removed from the area.

Treating Mold

Often the first indication of a mold problem is a musty smell. If you cannot see any mold, it may be best to call mold remediation experts to help you find the source of the mold. After the mold has been found and the water source addressed, it is important to contain the mold. This can be accomplished by turning off fans and the heating or air conditioning in the area. Professionals may use more advanced methods. Then an antimicrobial or antifungal cleaning solution should be used to clean the mold. Anything that cannot be fully cleaned of mold should be thrown out. After the mold has been brought back to normal levels, any needed reconstruction or repairs can begin.

Mold in your Suntree, FL, business can be a serious problem. However, routinely checking for mold growth and addressing it quickly can prevent a minor issue from becoming a disaster.

3 Steps To Banish Black Mold From a Shower

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

Bathrooms with a shower should be properly ventilated to prevent mold growth due to humidity

3 Steps to Prevent a Shower Becoming Moldy

Showers combine all of the elements mold needs to thrive. Heat, moisture and organic material can support many types of shower mold. Take these three steps to prevent a shower from becoming moldy.

1. Increase Bathroom Ventilation

Mold thrives in environments with limited air circulation. Ventilation promotes faster drying, which reduces residual moisture levels that support growth. Make sure the ventilation fan you install is rated for the square footage of a bathroom.

2. Regularly Clean Showers

Cleaning a shower can help to prevent shower mold from becoming a problem. Mold requires organic material for nutriment, and is less likely to grow if you regularly eliminate buildup from a shower. It can also be helpful to remove excess water from the walls or door of a shower with a squeegee.

It is a good idea to clean and scrub shower surfaces at least once a week, scrub grout once or twice a month, and periodically treat the shower with a fungicide cleaner or a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water.

3. Maintain Grout Sealant

Scrubbing grout is necessary to remove mildew or mold, but abrasion will also wear down the seal over time. When the grout between tiles or around the base of the shower wears out, this can lead to leaks that allow water to penetrate behind walls or spill out onto the floor of a bathroom. Check the condition of grout every few months and reseal when necessary.

These three preventative measures can help to stop the growth of shower mold. If you can still smell a musty odor after taking these steps, water may be leaking behind tiles and collecting in wall cavities. Do not search for hidden mold on your own. Black mold may be present, and some species are toxigenic. Contact a service that offers mold testing and remediation in Viera, FL.

4 Steps To Take After a Fire

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Contact a professional restoration service in your area

4 Steps To Take After a Fire

After a fire, your South Patrick, FL, home will likely require fire restoration to return it to its previous condition. If you have homeowners or renters insurance, this process will often be covered by your policy. Here are a few things you should do after a fire to ensure that the claims process goes well.

1. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the first things you should do after any damage to your home occurs is to call your insurance agent. Contacting him or her right away will allow you to get the process started quickly. Because a fire insurance claim may take a while, you will want to begin as soon as possible.

2. Contact a Professional Restoration Service

In some cases, your insurance company or agent may give you a list of restoration services that they recommend. You should arrange to have these professionals come in as soon as you can. They will perform smoke cleaning as well as any necessary repairs to the building. They may be able to salvage some of your damaged belongings as well.

3. Take Photos of Affected Areas and Belongings

While you are waiting for the fire restoration company, it is a good idea to take pictures of any areas of your home that have been damaged in the fire. The insurance company will use these to help determine the amount of your claim. The restoration company may also take pictures before they begin working.

4. Prevent Further Damage

Sometimes, your insurance company will require remediation to prevent damage from worsening. You can start on this before the professionals arrive, moving smaller items to safer locations and blocking off areas that haven’t been affected. The restoration company, however, will include mitigation and remediation in their services.

Because fire restoration can be a lengthy and costly process, you should do what you can to ensure your insurance company approves your claim. Acting quickly and contacting them right away is a good place to start.

When Do You Need To Clean Your Dryer Vent?

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage

So, What Are the Signs That Your Vent Needs Cleaning?

As a homeowner in West Brevard, you're probably very diligent about fire safety. You may have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors on every floor, but have you checked your dryer vent lately? Many homes are damaged each year as the result of a lint fire. If the vent isn't cleaned out regularly, a dryer fire can result. 

1. Clothes Are Taking Too Long To Dry

If your vent is blocked, your clothes can take up to two or three times as long to dry. You may find that the clothes you put in for a regular drying time are still a little damp when the cycle is over. This is happening because the blocked vent isn't allowing the moisture to be released to the outside.

2. Hot Dryer and Clothes

A blocked vent can also cause excess heat. If your laundry feels unusually hot when you take it out, and the outside of the dryer feels very hot when you touch it, this could be the problem.

3. Burning Smell

If you smell something burning inside the dryer, that's a sure sign of trouble. The drum casing, exhaust tube, and trap can get clogged, which makes it easy for a lint fire to start. If you're smelling smoke, turn off the dryer immediately and call a professional right away to inspect it.

4. No Regular Inspections

Your dryer vent should be inspected at least once a year by a vent cleaning specialist. A do-it-yourself job is certainly an option, but hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done thoroughly. These technicians are well acquainted with all the various brands of dryers and have the proper equipment to efficiently clean out the vent.

A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage. But you can easily prevent a fire from happening by looking out for the signs outlined above.

Tips for Spot Cleaning Carpets

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have those tough spots on your carpets that just will not come out? Here are some tips you may have not tried when cleaning that spot on your carpet.

Tip #1

ALWAYS blot or scrape up as much material as possible before it soaks into the carpet.

Tip #2

For scraping solid material, use a table knife or a SERVPRO scraper. Never uses a sharp instrument.

Tip #3

For blotting liquids, use white paper towels or tissues instead of a cloth. If a cloth is used too long, the fibers may redeposit in the carpet and spread the stain.

Tip #4

Never use soap. This frequently leaves a sticky residue that causes rapid resoling.       

Tip #5

Do not allow solvent-based products to penetrate to the backing of carpets. Solvents might damage and soften the latex compounds used to strengthen the carpet backing.

Escaping a Fire

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

Causing more than 2,500 deaths and 12,600 injuries each year in the United States, house fires are extremely dangerous for those that are unprepared for the event. But they are preventable.

To be prepared should a fire occur in your home, it’s important to know what to do:

• Before a fire

• During a fire

• After a fire

To ensure that your family remains safe throughout the ordeal.

It takes just two minutes for a fire to become life-threatening and just five minutes for a residence to become consumed by a fire. While the flames are what most people fear, that’s not what’s most dangerous as the heat and smoke do most of the damage. This is because the inhalation of extremely hot air can sear the lungs. A fire also has the ability to produce poisonous gases that can make you disoriented and drowsy making them all the more dangerous. In fact, the leading cause of fire deaths is asphyxiation which exceeds burns by a three to one ratio.

Preparing for a Fire

To make sure you’re prepared in the event of a fire, there are certain precautionary measures that must be taken to ensure your safety. The most important step is to create an evacuation plan for your family. Every second counts when a home is filling up with smoke so you need to know the fastest way out. Creating a plan and going over it with each member of your family will ensure that everyone can get out safely.

When developing your evacuation plan, make sure that you have two routes to escape each room in case one is blocked. Once your plan is formed, you should practice the plan at least twice a year. Being prepared for a potential fire means making sure that windows aren’t locked, screens can be taken out quickly, and that security bars can be opened. You should also have your family practice feeling around in the dark with their eyes closed replicating the environment they’ll be in if there’s a fire and teach the children not to hide from firefighters who are there to help.

The most important device to making sure you can safety escape a fire is a smoke alarm. Having working smoke alarms will significantly increase your chances of surviving the fire. To make sure that your smoke alarm will alert you of a fire in the home, test the batteries monthly, replace the batteries at least once a year, and replace the smoke alarm every eight to 10 years.

How to Escape a Fire

If a fire does occur in your home, you should escape the building as quickly as possible. However, there are some things you need to remember to safety evacuate. The first step is to get to the floor and crawl to the exit as heavy, toxic smoke and poisonous gases gather initially at the ceiling. When you get to a door, feel the doorknob and door before opening it. If either the doorknob or door is hot, you should leave it closed and go to your alternate way out. You should also leave the door closed if smoke is coming from around it. If you are able to open the door, do so slowly and be ready to shut it quickly should heavy smoke or fire be on the other side.

But what happens if you can’t get out? If the event occurs where you’re trapped in a room, cover the vents and cracks around any doors with cloth or tape to keep any smoke out. Then call the fire department and tell them where you are. You can use a light colored cloth or flashlight to get the attention of the firefighters. If you catch on fire yourself, simply stop, drop, and roll with your hands over your face to put yourself out.

What to Do After a Fire

If you’ve suffered a fire in your home rendering it uninhabitable and you have nowhere to go, contact your local disaster relief service like The Red Cross. If you have fire insurance, call the insurance company for details on protecting your property. You also should contact the professionals at SERVPRO of West Bevard to remediate the situation as soon as possible. The sooner they begin the restoration process, the more of your home and possessions will be salvaged.

A house fire is a devastating event that can lead to serious injury or death if you’re not properly prepared. These tips will ensure that you’re prepared for a fire and that you and your family can escape safely.

Keeping your Business Safe from Water Damage

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

A pipe break could expel large amounts of water into your facility which could result in significant flooding.

As a business leader, you’ve got enough to worry about with your day-to-day operations that you don’t want to think about problems with your facility. However, it’s not uncommon for Viera, FL, companies to contend with leaking pipes or other matters that can lead to flooding and water damage. It’s important to identify the causes of these potential disasters and troubling incidents so you can prevent them and more effectively clean them up.

Potential Hazards

In some cases, something such as a toilet backup or a slow leak in a pipe will only cause minor concerns in a bathroom or break room. However, if these things go undetected, you could face significant financial consequences or even potential interruptions to your business.

• Flooding could damage or ruin the carpet, drywall, ceiling tile, furniture or electronics.

• Water damage could create an unsafe environment for employees.

• Water damage may not be covered by your insurance.
  
  

The Gradual Issues

Leaking pipes could drip water onto floors or into the walls of your office over a long period of time without you even realizing it. Over the course of months or even years, this can rot away the drywall or subfloor. This problem could even encourage the growth of mold or other fungal development.

A Sudden Rush

If your building is aging, you may need to take a look at the plumbing system and make sure the pipes are still in good shape. A pipe break could expel large amounts of water into your facility, which could result in significant flooding. Even if you react quickly to this incident, you could still face heavy costs and loss of equipment and supplies.

Mother Nature

A weak roof or poor foundation could be vulnerable if heavy rain hit during a thunderstorm. Leaking pipes will put water on your floor slowly, but severe weather could inundate you with too much to handle.

If any of these events occur in your building, you know where to turn. Contact a commercial water damage specialist immediately.

Keeping The Workplace Safe

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Keeping the Workplace Safe

Encourage your employees to...

• Practice Good Hygiene 
  • Stop shaking hands – use other noncontact methods of greeting
  • Clean hands with sanitizer or wash their hands frequently
  • Avoid touching their faces and cover coughs and sneezes
  • Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, tables, desks, and handrails regularly
  • Increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting air conditioning

• Be Careful with Meetings and Travel
  • Use videoconferencing for meetings when possible
  • When not possible, hold meetings in open, well-ventilated spaces
  • Consider adjusting or postponing large meetings or gatherings
  • Assess the risks of business travel

• Handle Food Carefully 
  • Limit sharing food with others
  • Strengthen health screenings for cafeteria staff and their close contacts
  • Ensure cafeteria staff and their close contacts practice strict hygiene

• Stay Home if...
  • They are feeling sick
  • They have a sick family member in their home

About Coronavirus

The CDC is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and has spread to 60 locations internationally (as of this publication), including cases in the United States. The virus known as “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”) is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

We Are Cleanup and Biohazard Experts

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

About Coronavirus

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to respond to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus that was first detected in China and has now spread internationally. While the virus is termed coronavirus, the sickness that results after infection has been termed COVID-19. COVID-19 has now been declared a pandemic, which is a global outbreak of a disease.  

Need Specialized Cleaning Services? Call Us Today 321-953-8600

Symptoms

Illness from COVID-19 is wide ranging, from mild to severe symptoms and death. According to the CDC, symptom may appear two days to two weeks after exposure:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

It is important to consult your medical provider if you develop any severe or concerning symptoms.

Expert Level Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of South Brevard professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Need Specialized Cleaning Services? Call Us Today 321-953-8600

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Sources:

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/summary.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fsummary.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Fsymptoms.html

Biohazard Cleanup and Restoration

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Common Biohazard Scenarios

Sewage Backups

Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO of West Brevard Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture, and help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPRO of West Brevard Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO Franchise Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs

SERVPRO realizes many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO of West Brevard Professionals follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

24 Hour Emergency Service

Biohazard emergencies don’t always happen during regular business hours, and that’s why SERVPRO of West Brevard Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night. 

Commonsense precautions to help control spread of the flu virus

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

Flu season is here, and it’s often marked by the offers of free flu shots in neighborhood pharmacies and stores across the country. SERVPRO cleaning pros—experts in cleaning and sanitizing building materials, surfaces, and contents after fire, water, or natural disasters—remind home and business owners how important it is to step-up routine cleaning efforts during this time of year. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the flu virus can remain viable on surfaces for up to 48 hours. Cleaning surfaces and objects that are frequently touched minimizes the likelihood of contacting the flu virus when you touch an infected surface.

According to the CDC, nearly 15 percent of the U.S. population suffered from the flu in 2018. More than 950,000 people were hospitalized and almost 80,000 people died from flu complications, making 2018 the most severe flu season since 2009.

“As an emergency response company, we understand the hidden danger of contaminated surfaces in a workplace or home,” said Rick Isaacson, CEO of SERVPRO Industries, LLC. “This time of year, the flu virus can be a ‘hidden danger’ at home, at work, and in the community. It is a serious illness, and we want everyone to take it seriously.”

The CDC recommends the following to help protect yourself or your loved ones from contracting the flu.

1. Get vaccinated. The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccination as the first and most important protection against this serious virus.
2. Thoroughly wash your hands (20 seconds or more with soap and water) or sanitize them frequently throughout the day, even if you are not infected, to help protect yourself and others.
3. Beware of frequently touched surfaces, like handrails and doorknobs. Keep them clean at home using a bleach and water solution and clean your hands as soon as possible if you must touch them in public.

If you or a family member comes down with the flu despite these precautions, keep in mind the flu spreads primarily through droplets from a sick person when they cough, sneeze, or talk. With that in mind, the CDC offers the following guidelines to help control the spread of the disease:

1. Stay home and keep your distance. Infected droplets from a sick person’s nose or mouth can travel up to six feet and land in the noses and mouths of people nearby, exposing them to the illness.
2. Wait until you are fever free – without medications – for at least 24 hours before returning to school, work, or normal activities.
3. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue, your sleeve, or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of the tissue and clean your hands with soap or a sanitizer with 60 percent alcohol.

There is no such thing as a foolproof flu protection plan, says Isaacson, but frequent hand-washing and conscientious cleaning practices at home, work, and in the community are precautions everyone can practice to help keep them and their loved ones healthy. For more flu statistics and tips on how to help prevent the spread of the flu virus, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/flu.

Everything You Need to Know About Mold

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Mold in a Brevard County home

Within as little as 48 - 72 hours mold can spread throughout your property and begin to produce allergens and irritants that can cause health effects. As your West Brevard disaster restoration professionals, we have the training, equipment, and expertise to handle your mold situation. Any home or business can become infested with mold from a simple roof or plumbing leak, which is why understanding mold and its potential effects on your home is important. 

Mold spores are microscopic and exist almost everywhere. Since these spores naturally exist outside and inside, it’s impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. These spores travel through the air which makes it easy for them to get into your home through windows, doors, air conditioning systems, or clothing. Mold thrives off of moisture and can quickly grow into a colony if left untreated and exposed to water.

Oftentimes, mold produces a musty smell that can help lead you to the source of the problem, which is the first step in mold remediation. “Black” or “toxic” mold can be an extremely dangerous type of mold, which is why any mold in your home should be treated with caution and you should contact a qualified mold remediation company before anything else. 

SERVPRO professionals are highly trained to handle any mold situation. Since water and mold restoration is a cornerstone of our business, our team includes an Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist, Water Damage Restoration Technician, and Applied Structural Drying Technician to efficiently and safely tackle your mold issues. Our team also has the equipment to detect the source of the water feeding your mold, isolate the area, and remove the mold to keep you and your family safe. 

As your West Brevard SERVPRO professionals, you can trust that we understand that each mold situation requires a unique solution, however the typical process will remain the same. Here’s what you need to know about the mold remediation process: 

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The process begins when you call our national call center (1-800-SERVPRO). A representative will talk with you to find out the necessary equipment and resources to tackle the job. 

Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

Your West Brevard SERVPRO professionals will then assess your mold damage and inspect your property. Oftentimes mold feeds on water and cellulose that’s hidden from plain view, which is why our team will use different technologies to determine the source of your mold. 

Step 3: Mold Containment

To prevent the spread of your mold, our team will use advanced containment procedures to isolate the area and keep the spores from spreading throughout the cleaning process. 

Step 4: Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment will allow your SERVPRO of West Brevard team to remove spores from the air in your home. 

Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the scope and severity of your mold. Using antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies, your SERVPRO team will prevent new colonies from forming. Removing certain surfaces such as carpeting or drywall may be necessary to prevent the spread or formation of new mold colonies. 

Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Our team will use a variety of techniques to clean your personal items, such as furniture, clothing, or decorative items. They will also use fogging equipment to remove odors from your home. 

Step 7: Restoration

Depending on your mold situation, certain walls or materials in your home may be removed. In this case, your home may require minor or major repairs to restore your space to normal. 

If you have a mold issue in your Viera, FL home, don’t wait to contact your local SERVPRO professionals. Mold can cause serious property damage and health effects if left untreated, which is why our team is highly trained with the proper equipment and experience to handle your mold situation as soon as possible. If you suspect that your home is infested with mold, contact us today and we’ll have your home restored and repaired in no time!

How to Prepare for Spring Storms

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Gulf of Mexico waters are freakishly warm, which could mean explosive springtime storms for Florida and surrounding areas.

“Spring is the first kiss of summer.” -Anonymous

Spring has arrived and the excitement of summer, warm sun rays, and hot days are just around the corner. Although spring represents the end of winter and new beginnings, it also consists of spring showers, thunderstorms, and unpredictable weather, which can cause severe problems if not properly prepared. Since Florida weather already seems irregular, how do you prepare for unexpected spring storms, what do you do in the event of severe weather conditions, and what is needed to stay safe among hazardous conditions following a storm?

Preparing for the unknown can save lives, so we have provided these important preparation steps.

Organize an Emergency Plan

Putting a plan in place can potentially save you and your family’s lives. But one plan may not work for every type of severe weather condition, such as thunderstorms, floods, and tornadoes. For instance, your evacuation plan for a tornado should be different than if a flood occurred and the streets are two feet under water. Each emergency plan prepared needs to include a map of your home, routes to safety, and an emergency shelter or destination. Being prepared for each type of life-threatening weather condition is important in keeping your family safe before and after a disaster.

Go Inside When You Hear Thunder

According to the American Red Cross, lightning strikes are the leading killer. Every year lightning has killed more people than hurricanes or tornadoes. When you hear thunder, loud or soft, go inside! With lightening strikes following thunder, every lightening flash is a potential killer.

Protect Your Electronics

To avoid damaging your electronics during a storm, you should plug all electronics into surge protectors. By doing this, the surge protector protects your electronics from burning up due to voltage strikes. If any electronics are not safeguarded by surge protectors, unplug the devices before a storm.

Keep an Emergency Kit

Because severe weather can be unpredictable, you need to put together an emergency kit beforehand. When preparing an emergency kit you should include a first aid kit, a 3-5 day supply of water, nonperishable food, personal hygiene items, blankets or sleeping bags, flashlights, a battery-operated radio, and extra batteries. Make a list of important information to have on hand, like your insurance and utility company’s phone numbers. In case you get stuck in severe weather on the road, keep a second emergency kit in your car. Additional resources on an emergency kit can be found at: https://www.ready.gov/kit.

We at SERVPRO believe that by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.

Protecting Wood from Water Damage

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Most houses have wood integrated into their structures in some way or another. Often these wooden parts of the house are used for decks, doors, or garage doors. The problem with wood that is open to the elements is that water damage is always a possibility. Similar to issues with the foundation, if gutters are absent from the building or are defective so that water flows straight down rather than being directed away from the building, the result could be rotting, mold growth, or other problems associated with wood being affected by water.

Keep Outside of the House Clean

When rainwater flows off the roof, it brings with it the mud, sand, and other debris that may have collected on the roof. What fell from the sky as clean water is now dirty water that can leave a trail on the house. The result of this could be the staining of doors, windows, and siding which could negatively affect the look of the house and force you to clean the house more frequently. The primary purpose of gutters is to direct water away from the house so that the water doesn’t flow straight down where it can cause trouble.

By doing this, the water that would have caused these unsightly features will now be directed well away from the house leaving the home with a cleaner outside look.

What Happens During a Fire Assessment?

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Suffering a fire in your home is one of the most traumatic occurrences for a homeowner.

Suffering a fire in your Palm Shores, FL home is one of the most traumatic occurrences for a homeowner. You can potentially lose not only your home, but also your treasured possessions. To ensure that as many of your possessions can be saved as possible, you need to immediately contact the professionals at SERVPRO to restore the home.

The first step in restoring any home that has suffered from fire damage will be an inspection and fire assessment. This assessment is done often by both the insurance company and restoration company. They do an inspection to determine how severe the damage is and whether or not it is safe to reenter the home. For the restoration company, it will determine what materials and equipment they will need to begin the restoration process. There are three steps that take place during the fire assessment process; an inspection of outdoor damage, an inspection of indoor damage, then the restoration of the home.

Inspecting Outside Damage

The first step during the fire assessment process that will be taken is an inspection of the outside of the home. During this inspection, the professional inspectors will be looking for any melted objects, damaged chimneys, missing roof shingles, or any other damage that has occurred to the outside of the home. Depending on the severity of the fire, they may also take a look around any surrounding yards, take a closer look at the roof, and look at any other exterior surfaces that might have incurred damage during the fire. The purpose of this inspection is to see whether or not there is any damage from the outside that is in need of repair.

Inspecting Inside Damage

Once the inspector has surveyed outside for any exterior damage, they will move inside to see what damage has been incurred inside the home, likely where the fire occurred. During this part of the inspection, the inspector will walk through the building looking for any visible damage. The main areas that are inspected are the walls, roof, floors, ceilings, ducts, vents, bathtubs, windows, and sinks. Every room of the building must be inspected to make sure that all damage has been identified before the restoration process begins.

The main point of inspecting the inside of the house is to see what parts of the house are still intact and which parts of the house are falling apart due to the damage. During the inspection, the foundation, walls, and ceilings will be paid close attention as these are the parts of the home that can require the most significant restoration. This is because these parts of the house are largely responsible for the structural stability of the building.

Restoring the Home

Once the fire assessment has finished, the SERVPRO team will know the extent of the damage and what materials and equipment they need to complete the restoration process. The quicker the restoration of the building starts, the more of your possessions and the more of the building will be able to be restored.

One of the issues regarding fire damage restoration is water damage. When water is used to put out the fire, this creates water damage around the house. If the water is not properly cleaned up by professionals, mold and mildew are just some of the problems that can arise. By immediately performing fire and water restoration, the professionals from SERVPRO will be able to salvage most of what could be lost if much more time is wasted. In the end, the goal of the process is to minimize the possibility of there being further damage.

When a fire occurs in your Viera, FL home, it’s important to immediately call the professionals at SERVPRO to restore the building. With the damage caused by the fire and the water damage caused by the water that puts out the fire, time is of the essence to avoid even worse damage being caused. The first step in the fire restoration process is a fire assessment, where the team will examine the inside and outside of the home to see how much damage has been caused and what materials and equipment will be needed in order to fully restore the home. So if you suffer from a fire in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO for a full restoration.

Restoring a Home After Smoke Damage

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to your personal property and the structure of your home.

If you’ve suffered a fire in your South Patrick Shores, FL home, regardless of the size, you’ll have smoke damage to restore. If the fire was a small one, smoke may cause more damage than the fire itself. Letting this smoke damage sit for weeks, days, or even hours can leave irreparable effects.

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to your personal property and the structure of your home. The only way you can minimize the damage to your home and property is to act quickly.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a globally recognized organization whose overall goal is to establish a higher standard within the industry. Firms such as SERVPRO that are certified by the IICRC provide faster and better service than those that are not certified.

If restoration is not done properly and efficiently, the cost of restoration will increase and the damages will escalate. Quickly hiring an IICRC certified company will give them the opportunity to stop and minimize the damage so that repairs can begin.

Based on how long you wait to bring in IICRC certified professionals and begin the clean up and restoration process, the permanent damage can be minimal or substantial. The following is what can happen based on how long you wait.

Within minutes of disaster

Once the fire has been put out, soot residue begins to settle into the property. Porous materials that have discolored due to the fire and smoke can become permanent. There are other discolored surfaces where the discoloration may be removed if the items are cleaned properly. But if not treated quickly, the acidic soot will begin to stain different surfaces throughout the house.

Within hours of disaster

If the damage done is not quickly attended to the damage will increase. Wood furniture may get to the point where it will require refinishing. Metal objects will begin to rust, pit, and corrode. Walls that have been painted will begin to yellow. Clothing that has been damaged can become permanently stained. And by this point, flooring may require either refinishing or possibly replacement.

Within weeks of disaster

If the damage goes untreated for weeks, the restoration will take longer and cost more than if it’s done the day of the fire. The prolonged soot exposure will permanently harm all surfaces of the home and become embedded in the fibers. At this point, replacing property may be your best or only option. And if the home is not properly restored, the structure may continue to deteriorate as time goes on.

If you would like to get a jump start on the cleaning process before the professionals arrive, the IICRC has suggestions.

Safety First

Cleaning up after fire or smoke damage can be dangerous if certain precautions are not taken. You shouldn’t enter the property without the proper work gloves and appropriate respiratory protection. Exposure to soot residue can cause respiratory distress in addition to other medical emergencies.

Use Box Fans

Once you’ve entered the property having taken the suggested safety precautions, open all the windows and put box fans in. This will force out the contaminated air or dust that may be inside that could cause medical problems. Opening the windows and putting box fans in them will allow for proper ventilation to prevent further smoke damage and will reduce the risk of injury to people in the home.

Clean Everything with Soap and Water

To get as much of the smoke and dust off objects around the house as possible, clean everything with soap and water. When doing this, start with the ceiling and work your way down to the floor. Make sure you get everything when scrubbing down the house including the inside of cabinets and cupboards.

Use High Efficiency Vacuum with HEPA

If you have a high efficiency vacuum cleaner with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA), use that on upholstery and carpeting. A good filtration system on a high efficiency vacuum will prevent soot from being blown back into the space you’ve already cleaned. If you have a high efficiency vacuum for this purpose, make sure to clean and charge the vacuum regularly.

Launder Washable Materials

To clean washable materials that have been damaged, use an alkaline cleaner which will neutralize the acid that is found in soot. Use this on materials such as bedding, clothes, curtains, and other washable materials. If you have fine materials that have been damaged, they should be professionally dry-cleaned by a dry-cleaner that has experience handling smoke damaged items.

Clean Exterior Walls

To clean the exterior walls and eaves of your home, use a water hose that is attached to a proper cleaner. This will agitate and loosen the soot that is stuck on it. If this isn’t done quickly after the damage has been done, the smoke damage will continue to worsen until it is removed.

Regardless of how large or small the damage is, you should have an IICRC certified technician that has the training and experience necessary to restore the property. If structural distortion or warping has occurred, you may need to call a general contractor. If you bring in an IICRC certified firm to handle the restoration in your Viera, FL home, most insurance companies will cover the cost of the restoration and you’ll pay less of a deductible. 

How to Avoid a House Fire

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

A house fire can be a traumatizing event but there are ways to prevent them.

A house fire can be a devastating event for your home in Satellite Beach, FL. You could potentially lose many of your possessions in addition to your home. While it may seem that some of these fires are unavoidable, there are ways that you can prevent these events from occurring. These are six of the most common causes of house fires and how you can prevent them.

1. Candles

A NFPA study found that between 2012-2016, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 8,200 home structure fires that were started by candles per year. They stated that these fires caused an annual average of 80 deaths, 770 injuries and $264 million in direct property damage.

There are several causes of candle-related house fires. More than half of the fires that were started in the bedroom were because open flames were left too close to flammable items. Other causes of these fires include leaving the room unattended, someone playing with the candles, and the candle knocking over when someone or a pet bumps the table.

To avoid candle related house fires, keep any candles 12 inches away from any flammable items, never leave a candle lit in a child’s room or an unoccupied room, make sure the candle fits securely into the candle holder so it won’t tip over, and blow out any candles before leaving a room or going to sleep.

Smoking

According the NFPA, 17,600 house fires are a result of smoking. That’s resulted in 490 deaths and more than $516 million in property damage. In 2013, the NFPA found that there had been a 73 percent drop in smoking-related house fires from 2008-2011 mostly due to a decrease in the number of smokers. Also helping the drop in smoking-related house fires were new regulations creating non-flammable mattresses, clothing, and furnishings.

The causes of these types of fires are usually ashes or cigarette butts not being completely put out, smoking near a medical oxygen tank, or lacking attention to the cigarette due to falling asleep, drinking, or taking medication while the cigarette is lit.

To avoid causing a smoking-related house fire, smoke outside, use wide and sturdy ashtrays to catch all butts and ashes, and be aware of any cigarettes that may have fallen under furniture or between seat cushions. Also make sure that there are no lit butts that have fallen where they can’t be seen.

Electrical and Lighting

The NFPA reports that in 2011, approximately 47,700 house fires were caused by an electrical failure or malfunction of some sort. These types of fires resulted in 418 deaths, 1,570 injuries, and caused $1.4 billion worth of property damage.

Causes of electrical and lighting fires include equipment malfunction, an overloaded circuit or extension cord, an overheated light bulb, a space heater, a washer, and a dryer. Of all the fires caused by electrical and lighting between 2007-2011, 63 percent were due to wiring problems.

Ways that you can avoid starting an electrical or lighting fire include not overloading outlets or electrical cords, ensuring you’re using the right cords (inside cord for inside and heavy duty or outside cord for outside), not leaving Christmas equipment (lights and trees) on overnight or when you’re not home, and having an electrician perform an annual checkup on the home’s wiring.

Dryer and Washing Machines

The NFPA found that 16,800 house fires in 2010 were caused by dryers and washing machines resulting in more than $236 million worth of property damage. Of the fires started by dryers, 29 percent were caused by lint or dust and 28 percent were caused by clothing. For washer-related fires, 26 percent were caused by wire or cable insulation, 21 percent caused by appliance housing, and 15 percent were caused by the drive belt.

Tips to avoiding these types of fires include cleaning the lint screen frequently, ensure there are no leaks in the lines in gas or propane dryers, ensuring the dryer is vented to the outside of the house so that nothing blocks the vent pipe, clean the vent pipe and area where the screen is housed, and keep the area around the dryer free of combustible materials.

Lightning

The NFPA says that from 2007-2011, an average of 22,600 house fires were started annually from lightning. These fires are different than the others on this list as they were primarily started during the summer months of June, July, and August rather than December and January.

To avoid lightning-related fires, stay away from doors or windows during an electrical storm, don’t use corded electrical equipment during storms, unplug major electronics when lightning is close by, and avoid plumbing fixtures like sinks or baths during a thunderstorm.

Cooking

Nearly 40 percent of all house fires are started from cooking. That 156,000 house fires per year and they have caused $853 million worth of property damage. Two-thirds of these fires start due to food or other materials catching fire with 57 percent of these fires starting on a range and 16 percent of these fires being caused by an oven. These fires are typically started either when grease is left unattended or when frying something.

To prevent the possibility of a house fire when cooking, don’t leave your food unattended, don’t attempt to put out a grease fire with water instead putting a lid on the pan to smother it, keep flammable items away from the heat source, and make sure your smoke detectors work and there is a fire extinguisher nearby. If a fire occurs in the oven, shut the door and wait for it to extinguish itself.

A house fire in your Suntree, FL home can be a traumatizing event but there are ways to prevent them. By knowing what causes these fires and understanding safety measures, you can ensure you won’t suffer this fate. If you do suffer a house fire, call SERVPRO to remediate the problem.

Kitchen Cautions During the Holidays

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let the small task of staying attentive in the kitchen, take time away from spending joyful times with your friends and family this year.

Thanksgiving was the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. Any idea what the leading cause of the fires could be? It’s leaving the cooking food unattended. (Source: National Fire Protection Association)

It’s important to be alert while cooking to prevent fires. Would you know what to do if a fire broke out in your kitchen?

If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocol to help keep you and your family safe.

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smoother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stove top. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled

Your local SERVPRO of West Brevard wishes you a safe and happy holiday season.

Fireplace Safety Tips

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make a difference between restoring versus replacing damaged property and personal belongings.

A warm fire sure can be cozy, especially on those cold Florida nights. We know as Floridians; those nights are numbered. Nonetheless, taking the time to know these 5 simple safety tips will help you and your family stay safe while keeping warm this Florida winter.   Be safe this season with our fireplace safety tips.

• Burn only dry, split firewood. Avoid chemically treated wood.

• Install a chimney cap in your fireplace.

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home or business.

• Close damper when fireplace is not in use.

• Schedule a yearly fireplace and chimney inspection.

About Our Fire Remediation Services

SERVPRO of West Brevard specializes in fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration. Our technicians are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your fire problem quickly and safely. We service the residents of Melbourne, Suntree, Viera, and Rockledge. Don’t hesitate to contact our office staff if you have experienced a house fire, small or large. Schedule a Fire Assessment at 321-953-8600

How to Handle Water Leaks and Floods in Your Satellite Beach Home

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Water can easily destroy the walls, floors and structure of your house.

West Brevard water damage can be a problem if there is a leak or flood in your home. Water can easily destroy the walls, floors and structure of your house. It can cause dangerous mold to grow. It can ruin personal possessions and appliances. You should know what to do when faced with a water leak or flood.

Try To Stop the Leak

The first step is to try to stop the leak. Find the source of the water. If there are shutoff valves nearby, then turn them off to stop the flow of water. Alternately, you could turn off the water mains to the entire house. If neither of these steps is an option, then you may be able to seal off the source of the leak with duct tape, rags or other materials. Attempt to do this only if you can walk safely through the water.

Stop the Water from Spreading

If your home is flooding, then try to stop the water from spreading. You can use sandbags, towels or other items to create a barrier that the water cannot pass through. This will help even if you can just slow the water down a little from freely flowing into your home. You could also attempt to put down towels if the water is very shallow. This will help to limit the amount of West Brevard water damage.

Get Your Possessions off The Ground

If you have possessions on the ground where the water is leaking, then pick them up. Pick up rugs, furniture and anything else. You do not want the water to destroy those items. Additionally, porous items like paper, fabrics or wood can become sources of mold after the water stops leaking. Put your items somewhere high up so that they are not in danger. Hang up any wet or soaked items to dry if possible.

Contact a Restoration Service

You should contact a restoration service like SERVPRO as soon as you realize that there is a leak and have stabilized the situation. These professionals will come into your home, remove the water and start dealing with the damage. They can dry out you floors, walls, and some personal possessions. They can also remove damaged parts of the home that are not salvageable. Restoration services are critical for recovering from water leaks or floods.

Take Preventative Action

You want to take some preventative action after the restoration company has finished. You want to inspect your plumbing regularly. You also want to check and maintain your appliances. Make an effort to have your roof checked for damage on an annual basis. Keep the number for the restoration company handy just in case. These steps will reduce the chance that you will have to deal with serious Satellite Beach water damage again in the future.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of West Brevard is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Viera, FL community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

We proudly serve:

Water Damage Satellite Beach, FL

and surrounding areas.

Safety Tips for Heating Your Home

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a fire in your home, SERVPRO is there to help. But we also want to help you prevent fires in your home.

If you have a fire in your home, SERVPRO is there to help. But we also want to help you prevent fires in your home.

Did you know that heating equipment is the leading cause of home fire deaths, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)? Cold temperatures during these winter months have led to people frequently using their heaters. Half of these heating equipment fires predictably take place in the winter months of December, January, and February when heating equipment is used the most.

Abiding by the following safety measures will keep yourself and your family safe from any potential dangers of using heaters in your home.

Stay Three Feet Away

One way to stay safe when heating your home is to keep flammable items at least three feet away from heating equipment. That includes a furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.

Enforce a Three-Foot Rule for Children

The curiosity of children can cause a problem if they focus their attention on one of these heating options. Wanting to explore the equipment, the child could accidentally catch on fire or start a fire in the house. Therefore it’s a good idea to have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around all open fires and space heaters.

Don’t Use Your Oven As a Heater

Never attempt to use your oven to heat your home. The inefficacy of an oven as it pertains to heating could cause it to go out or not burn well which could potentially lead to carbon monoxide poisoning endangering the lives of your whole family.

Use Only Qualified Professionals When Installing Heating Equipment

Make sure a qualified professional install your heating equipment. An inexperienced person installing your space heater, water heater, or central heating equipment could lead to serious mistakes that could potentially cause a fire. Hiring qualified professionals will ensure that the person installing your equipment adheres to local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

Get Your Annual Chimney Inspection

It’s important to have your heating equipment or chimney cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. In early 2000, the NFPA set a new standard that ensures that inspections include a thorough inspection and cleaning. Based on the purpose of the inspection (annual inspection, system change or real estate transaction, potential hazard) the inspector will inspect on one of three levels. The thoroughness of the inspection will increase at each level of the inspection.

Never Leave Portable Heaters On When Leaving a Room

Always turn off and unplug portable heaters when leaving a room or going to bed. Portable heaters can short out while you’re away and start a fire before you return.

Make Sure to Use Correct Fuel

Use the right kind of fuel when using fuel-burning space heaters. The manufacturer will specify which fuel that specific space heater will need. Using the wrong kind of fuel could cause the fuel to burn hotter than the equipment was designed for and could cause a fire in your home.

Use a Fireplace Screen

It’s important to make sure that your fireplace has a screen in front of it. Without a screen, sparks could fly into the room and start a fire. Also, if you plan to dispose of ashes in a metal container, ashes should be cooled prior to entering a metal container. The container should also be kept a safe distance away from your home.

Test Smoke Alarms Monthly

If a fire starts in your home in Viera, FL, a smoke alarm can save your life. Smoke spreads quickly and a properly working smoke alarm will give you enough time to get out. So make sure you test your smoke alarms each month. Also, make sure to replace your smoke detectors once every ten years.

Use Ventilation

When burning anything larger than a candle, make sure to provide good ventilation. You can do this by opening windows, doors, or fireplace fumes. Good ventilation will substantially reduce the amount of smoke that can be harmful to those in the home. 

On cold days heating is a must. But without the use of certain precautions, it can be a very dangerous decision. By following the safety measures highlighted by the NFPA, you can ensure that you will be warm and safe during the cold winter months.

#heatersafety #spaceheater #righttempforhome #heatertips #SERVPROofwestbrevard

Viera Mold Damage - The Most Common Places for Mold in the Home

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage can occur in many different places in your home.

Of all the problems that a house or apartment can have, mold is one of the most common. People have dealt with mold growth as long as they've been living indoors. Homes get damp, water leaks in, and humid climates get the worst of mold growth. One of the worst things about mold is that it spreads if left untreated. It can start out on a wall or near a drain or window and spread into walls, floors, other rooms, windowsills, ceilings, or just about anywhere. If you want to keep your home as mold-free as possible and avoid mold damage, be sure to check the most common areas in your home where mold is likely to grow. Basements especially are a breeding ground for mold because of the dampness.

Basement

Unlike the rest of your home, basements tend to harbor dampness because they're the area where most of your water drains through. Pipes run throughout most basement areas and they also tend to have sump pumps, sinks and other fixtures where water can leak, overflow, or just generally collect and lead to mold growth or mold damage in your home in Viera. In addition, any moisture or water in the ground also seeps into your basement walls, making them a breeding ground for mold spores. Home builders typically also put up drywall over the concrete walls in basements. Since drywall is made from wood, it also can provide mold with the perfect environment to grow.

Bathrooms

In addition to basements, bathrooms are another place in the home where mold is likely to grow and cause unsightly and destructive mold damage. Bathrooms are typically warm, damp and humid because people shower and bathe in them and also because they contain sinks, toilets, pipe, bathtubs and shower fixtures. Bathrooms usually have porous surfaces where mold can take root. Allergens as well as mold can begin to permeate a bathroom in a relatively short amount of time. This is one reason why a lot of people use tiles in their bathrooms. Even with tiles, however, mold can still get into drywall.

Kitchens

Because of sinks, water and food preparation, kitchens also tend to be one of the places where mold can take root in a house or apartment. Kitchens tend to promote the growth of microtoxins, which can include mold. Despite people's best efforts to keep the kitchen clean and sanitized, mold can grow just about anywhere there is water. Leaking sinks, drains and faucets can lead to mold growth as can spills left uncleaned or standing water.

Any spot in the home where water may run or collect creates the perfect place for mold to grow. Although these areas are just a few locations in your home where mold can grow, they are the most likely and the most common. If you want to prevent mold damage and the spread of mold in your home, be sure to check these common areas for mold and clean them regularly with a cleaning agent designed to kill mold and prevent it from coming back.

Call the Professionals

SERVPRO of West Brevard is a 24/7 emergency water removal & flood clean up repair service company, Our technicians are highly trained and experienced with every water damage situation

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Floods and Water Damage

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Your insurance company only covers certain types of water damage.

Home insurance is useful in times of an emergency. Insurance allows you to avoid having to pay out-of-pocket for expenses that are related to damage to your West Bevard, FL home. Submitting a claim after your home is damaged by water helps you recover money spent on repairs. However, it is important to know that there are positive and negative points to filing a water damage insurance claim has its good points and bad points.

The Positive Points

Your insurance company covers certain types of water damage. In most instances, the insurance company will cover any damage that is the result of a sudden event. For example, if the broken dishwasher leaks water and causes any water damage, you are covered by your policy. However, any damage that results from a dishwasher that malfunctions as a result of inadequate maintenance or neglect will not get covered.

Another example of water damage covered by your insurance policy, damage caused by a pipe bursting suddenly. Insurance companies will cover a water damage claim if the pipe burst was caused by the temperature dropping below freezing.

The Negative Points

Insurance companies will not cover water damage that is the result of improper maintenance. This type of damage occurs gradually over a period of time and is avoidable when homeowners engage in regular home maintenance. An example of this would be a claim that is filed to cover damage caused by a bursting pipe. The claim will not get covered if the pipe’s bursting was the result of a rapid decrease in temperature that resulted from an improperly heated home.

Another issue that homeowners face that is not covered by a regular home insurance policy is flood damage. If a local river overflows and floods your home, the flooding is not covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. You will need to purchase a separate insurance policy to cover flooding. This type of insurance is advised for anyone living in an area prone to flooding.

Water damage is covered by homeowner’s insurance. Unfortunately, there are some limitations to this coverage. An accident that occurs suddenly will likely get covered. However, flood damage that arises from poor maintenance is not covered by your policy. It is important to know that you may find yourself disagreeing with your insurance company about the nature of your water damage. An incident that you believe is the result of a sudden accident may not get viewed as such by your insurer. Your insurance company may argue that the damage was caused by improper maintenance of your home.

If you need help with flood damage in Melbourne, Satellite Beach, Melbourne Beach, Indialantic, Indian Harbour Beach, West Brevard, Palm Bay, Viera, West Melbourne, Malabar. Please alow us to be of assistance, give us a call at (321) 953-8600.

Will Your Roof Of Your West Brevard Home Cost You Thousands This Winter

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

While there are many things that homeowners in Viera must do to keep their living space in exceptional condition, tending to the roof is one of the most important. In the event that your roof becomes susceptible to damage due to neglect or maintenance oversights, you could wind up paying thousands of dollars for water damage restoration. And while it's a good idea for you to ensure that your home in Palm Suntree remains as aesthetically appealing and functional as possible, it's also prudent to avoid spending a great deal of money accomplishing this objective. By learning more about how roof damage and water damage is caused, you can prepare yourself to keep your money in your wallet rather than spending it on repair services.

Getting To The Root Of Roof/Water Damage

There are several factors that can cause your roof in Palm Shores to become susceptible to damage, and one of them includes a flat roof. If you have a flat roof, you should know that this could be the source of the problem. Why? Because a flat roof with a freezing drain pipe will trap water. Once this water begins to accumulate, it can generate water leaks which can lead to water damage in your Cocoa home. If this happens, it may become necessary to remove the downspout and then open the drain in order to create discharge.

Another challenge that can result in roof damage of your home in Merritt Island is the natural elements. For example, ice accumulation and snowfall can increase the amount of weight and pressure on one's roof. The solution to this issue is simple: take the time to remove the unwanted ice and snow from your roof. There are several other issues that can precipitate roof damage, including ice in your gutters.

Preventing Roof Problems Before They Start

While it's important to be informed about various issues that can result in water damage, it's even more important that you prevent the problem from happening in your Cocoa Beach home. And how can this objective be accomplished? By utilizing high-quality roof maintenance services. Roof maintenance services are important and advantageous because they enable professional inspectors to quickly identify any potential problems with your roof and subsequently eliminate the issue before the molehill evolves into a mountain. In order to ensure that you get high-quality roof maintenance services look for the following things in the company:

1. Qualifications/Credentials

The roof maintenance company that you in Patrick Air Force Base hire should possess substantive qualifications and credentials indicating their ability to do an excellent job. Some qualifications you should look include education, experience in the field, and any awards a company or its employee may have won for offering outstanding service.

2. Good Reviews

A good roof maintenance company in Rockledge will have good reviews from former customers who have used their services. As a result of the fact that we live in the Information Age, you can easily go online and read reviews that customers have left on the company's website or other social media forums.

3. Money Back Guarantee

Excellent, expedient roofing companies in Melbourne will typically be confident enough in the quality of their services to offer a money back guarantee. The guarantee can include anything from a warranty to a 100% full refund for any services you're not thoroughly satisfied with.

Conclusion

As the winter approaches, you are likely becoming excited about spending time with family and friends in your West Melbourne home as you enjoy the upcoming holidays together. To ensure that you get the most out of the season, make sure that you're keeping your roof impervious to damage from the natural elements and other issues that can precipitate problems. By following the brief outline offered above, you can accomplish this objective without hassle and inconvenience. Good luck.

Black Water Damage Restoration

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

When floodwater has different contaminating agents, as well as virus that can present severe health risks, it is referred to as "black water."

Black Water Damage Restoration in your Suntree Home

When floodwater has different contaminating agents, as well as virus that can present severe health risks, it is referred to as "black water." In many areas of the United States, flooding is a serious risk, and black water contamination in Suntree is always possible.

Storms, hurricanes, and excessive rains can all contribute to floods by leading to rising water from natural bodies of water and causing sewage back-flows. If you want to remediate Viera black water contamination that is present in a building, it is best to contact SERVPRO. The task will necessitate a great deal of planning, and specialized equipment. Our licensed professionals will have the expertise to assess the situation, as well as clean and dry the necessary locations.

The following is a list of steps that should be followed in the case of black water damage: 

1. Make sure that all building workers and other occupants are safe. Anyone who is working will need to don protective equipment, such as eye protection, boots, gloves, respirators, and waterproof coveralls. 

2. The contractor who was hired must thoroughly inspect all of the affected areas to be able to assess the seriousness and nature of any damage, which will have an impact on the remainder of the restoration process. 

3. Excess Viera water needs to be removed as quickly as possible, in order to prevent any further damage. It is also important to remove sewage, contaminated porous materials, and any other waste. Negative air machines, air scrubbers, and other specialized tools may need to be utilized to stop the contamination from spreading. EPA-approved disinfectants will be used on affected surfaces. 

4. Once the contractor has finished sanitizing, a balanced drying system will be put into place to restore damaged areas to their former conditions.

Specialized procedures will be used here, as well as specialized equipment and products, including high capacity air movers and professional dehumidifiers. In all situations of property damage, including that of black water contamination, contact the SERVPRO of West Brevard office. Our professionals will provide services to restore properties after disasters and minimize the overall losses.

5 Dangers of Deep Frying a Turkey

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

60% of house fire originate in the kitchen. Take every safety precaution while cooking, especially during the upcoming holidays around the corner.

A deep-fried turkey is delicious, but is it worth the risk? If you have seen any of the numerous videos of turkey fryer explosions and fires online, you may have asked yourself this question before. Running the risk of bodily injury or property damage is something to consider when menu planning this holiday season.

1. Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
2. An overfilled cooking pot will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and a partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter when put in the pot.
3. Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.
4. Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat the oil to the point of starting a fire.
5. The sides of the cooking pot, lid, and pot handles can get dangerously hot.

3 Steps for Dealing with a Leak

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Water leaking in a June Park, FL home

3 Steps for Dealing with a Leak

No matter how well you take care of your home in June Park, FL, the unexpected can happen. When the unexpected comes in the form of flooding or a massive leak means water in home, addressing the issue quickly can be the difference from a quick cleanup or damage that spreads beyond the water infiltration. Below are three vital steps in keeping damage to a minimum.

1. Shut the Water Off

While you can’t turn off flooding, if faced with a pipe burst, the main water source to the home needs to be turned off. This is especially important considering that although you may see the water, the actual source of the problem is likely hidden behind the walls. If it is visibly coming from under a sink, and you are certain there isn’t a bigger problem, it can be turned off directly at the source.

2. Call Your Home Insurance Provider

Once the water has stopped, contacting your insurance provider is important. While a small leak may not result in a claim, extensive damage needs to be immediately assessed. Along with the visible damage, water can create additional issues such as mold in the walls. If there is extensive damage, your insurer may provide additional benefits during the repair process. It’s also important to understand what kind of coverage you have. In the case of natural flooding, this typically requires an additional policy.

3. Find a Reputable Restoration Company

While some leaks may require a simple kitchen repair, severe damage can quickly spread. Contacting a professional can help ensure that fast action is taken to get your home cleaned, dried and repaired before secondary damage happens. Finding a company that is certified in these kinds of repairs provides peace of mind that they have the right tools and expertise.
At the first signs of water trouble, taking these few steps are imperative. Along with minimizing damage, it can help make the process easier.

Best Practices for Safe Grilling

10/13/2019 (Permalink)

Cook at least ten feet away from a home, garage or vehicle

Grilling is one of the most enjoyable activities of the summer. It is also a great way to cook some of the tastiest food possible. Anytime you have a fire going with gas or charcoal it is important to follow a number of safety precautions. A grill fire is a real possibility. Quite frequently, grilling is done close to a home, and the danger is that if things get out of control the home can be affected too. If this happens in Satellite Beach, FL makes sure you know who to call in an emergency. After the fire is out, it may be a good idea to call in fire damage cleanup experts to get your home back in shape quickly.

Tips To Avoid a Barbecue Fire

With a few simple precautions, it should be relatively easy to avoid a grill fire. Most of these tips are basic common sense. Here are several good practices to follow when grilling:

• Set up the grill on stable, flat ground
• Cook at least ten feet away from home, garage, or vehicle
• Make sure no flammable materials are nearby
• Do not leave the grill unattended
• Do not allow children or pets to come near the grill when it is on
• Clean a buildup of oils or grease from the grill surface
  

It is also important to check that the hose and gas connections on the grill are in good shape. If a new tank has been installed, make sure there are no gas leaks. If you are using charcoal, take extra care with lighter fluid, and do not spray fluid on hot coats.

The Keys to a Fire Cleanup

A fire in the home can create soot damage and smoke damage that should be cleaned up by a professional company in Satellite Beach, FL. The company will have the knowledge and the equipment to bring your home back to good condition, and make a grill fire "Like it never even happened."

#preventbbqfire #bbqsafetytips #SERVPROsafetytips

5 Mistakes To Avoid With Flood Cleanup

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Brevard is here to help after water damage.

When flood water makes its way into your Melbourne, FL home the thought of making repairs may seem overwhelming. However, there are few things that you won't want to do in such a situation. Here are five mistakes you should avoid when restoring your residence.

1. Don’t Wait To Make Repairs
One important thing to remember with a flooded home is not to wait to make repairs. Taking care of any restoration needs quickly can help prevent future problems.

2. Don’t Try To Do it All Yourself
Another thing to remember is not to try to perform the clean up all by yourself. A local flood damage restoration service often has the tools and equipment necessary to perform the job safely and quickly, and ensure the repairs are up to coding standards.

3. Don’t Ignore Safety Recommendations
When dealing with flood water it's important to observe all the safety recommendations. This may include reading the instructions for any equipment that you intend to use, as well as wearing proper safety gear such as masks, boots, coveralls, gloves, and even shoe covers.

4. Don’t Think Cleanup is Done Once the Water is Gone
Also remember that even though the flooding has been removed, the cleanup process itself may not yet be done. Water damage can persist even after the water is gone, and it's important to have an inspection done to look for any areas where structural integrity might be compromised, or mold may have set in, in order to get these properly remedied.

5. Don’t Forget To Talk To Your Insurance
It's also important to remember to talk to your insurance company. Your homeowner's policy may contain coverage for storm damage, and in many cases they may even recommend a restoration service.

When it comes to removing flood water and restoring your home, it's important not to wait to make any repairs. Don't try to do it all yourself, follow safety recommendations, and remember that even though the water is gone clean up may not be completed. Also, don't be afraid to talk to your insurance as they may be able to help.

3 Ways To Decorate With Fire-Safe Candle Alternatives

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

LED candles are a great alternative.

Candles are popular decorative home accents and lighting sources, but any open flame can increase the risk of a house fire. Find out about three ways to use candle alternatives to achieve the look you want while celebrating the holidays, serving dinner or considering new lighting solutions for your home in Viera, FL.

Walkway and Window Lighting

Flameless LED candles and interior and exterior lighting are ideal for accentuating windows or illuminating walkways around your home. Choose from battery-powered or solar-powered lighting solutions to achieve looks that might otherwise require open flames. LED lights are bright, efficient and much less likely to cause a fire than an unattended open flame on a windowsill with flammable blinds or curtains or in paper bags along the sidewalk or other paths.

Magical Lighting Effects

You’re probably familiar with string lighting from Christmas tree decorations, but did you know that these small, efficient lights are ideal candle alternatives for decorating inside and outside all year round. Add a special touch to bushes or trees for special events outdoors or use glow-in-the-dark decals or fairy lights to achieve decorative effects perfect for the bedroom of a child or teen.

Safely Spread Scents

There’s no need to sacrifice the scents you love for the sake of fire safety. If you’ve stocked up on your favorite fragrances in the form of wax candles with wicks, try a battery-powered or plug-in candle warmer to release the fragrance. Other home deodorization options include scented LED candles, reed diffusers and plug-in attachments.
From LED candles to string lighting and flameless scent diffusion methods, you can choose from a variety of candle alternatives. No matter how you have used candles to decorate in the past, you can find ways to achieve similar effects without the risk of starting a candle fire that calls for fire and smoke damage mitigation and restoration.

Rockledge Residents: Water Damages Should be Treated Immediately

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Faster to Any Size Disaster!

SERVPRO: Your First Choice For Professional Water Damage Restoration Services for Your Palm Shores Home

When your residential Rockledge property is subjected to water damage, dealing with the aftermath that results can be irritating and economically taxing. Additionally, individuals who do not address the water damage aftermath immediately will often find themselves grappling with even more expenses and emotional turmoil. To ensure that your water damage issues are addressed and resolved with expedience and efficacy, we suggest that you trust the professional technicians of SERVPRO. Learn more about water damage and how we can help you eliminate it by reading this short guide:

Water Damage: A Brief Overview

Water damage can be a severe problem that can result from varying sources. In many cases, water damage results from natural disasters like floods, fires, earthquakes, tornadoes, and hurricanes. Additionally, water damage can be caused by a broken sewer line or a leaky faucet. Each of these situations is unique and necessitates the use of highly specific water damage restoration services. Although some situations can be resolved more easily than others, any event involving water damage constitutes an emergency. This is the case because water damage that is not addressed immediately can entail structural issues on your property as well as potential health effects resulting from mold growth.

Why You Should Avoid DIY Clean Up and Repairs

In many cases, residential property owners in Brevard want to complete the water damage process on their own. These DIY projects are not a good idea for several reasons. First, most people do not have access to the specialized equipment that water damage restoration experts use to optimize and expedite the cleanup and drying processes. Additionally, water damage restoration can involve exposure to hazardous materials such as blackwater, dangerously contaminated water, and mold. Industry professionals are trained to address these issues without exposing themselves to danger, but most residential and commercial property owners have not undergone this type of training.

How SERVPRO Can Assist You

As an industry leader with more than 57 years of experience in offering water damage restoration services, SERVPRO's technicians can provide you with the most advanced, accelerated remediation assistance. All of our technicians have obtained IICRC certification and, therefore, can quickly and correctly resolve any aspects of water damage issues affecting your house. One of the reasons that we're the best company to call is that we offer 24-hour emergency services. Irrespective of the time that you take note of water damage on your property call us. We'll provide you with the immediate response necessary to quickly address and commence with water extraction and follow through with our time-tested protocol through to the end of the restoration.

Mold Mitigation and Remediation Process

4/11/2018 (Permalink)

Removing mold is not easy... but it can be, when you call SERVPRO, the leaders in the industry.

When a water damage occurs, mold can quickly become a problem. If you live in a state of high humidity, like Florida, mold can begin to start growing within 24-48 hours. You usually are not contacted back by your insurance company in the small amount of time. Take the following steps to get your mold problems solved. 

Call SERVPRO of West Brevard

The mold process begins when you contact our office at 321-953-8600. Our administration team will take down your information and ask you a series of question to determine resources, equipment, and personnel needs.

Inspection & Mold Assessment

Our SERVPRO assessor will schedule an appointment with you to inspect your property and/or area of concern. We will carefully check for any signs of mold or hidden water sources. Because mold feeds on water and cellulose, water or moisture had to be present at one time or another.

Mold Containment

To prevent the spread of mold spores, our technicians will place various containments. The containment procedures will isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure during the removal process. 

Air Filtration

When mold is disturbed, microscopic mold spores enter the air. Therefore, SERVPRO technicians utilize specialized filtration equipment to capture the spores in the air. While the mold remediation is in progress, air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums are on continuously to prevent the spread of mold spores.

Removing Mold & Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process is determined on the amount of mold growth and the type of surfaces the mold appears on. To eliminate the mold colonies and to prevent future colonies from forming, we perform antifungal and antimicrobial treatments.  Heavy mold growth any sporous surfaces, such as drywall, wood, or flooring, may result in removing and disposing of the mold-infected material.  

Cleaning Contents & Belongings

After the mold-contaminated surfaces are treated or removed, our SERVPRO professionals will clean any restorable contents, such as furniture, decorative items, linens and clothing. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize the belongings. All the chemicals we use are SERVPRO made and branded at our corporate office.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, building materials may need to be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as small drywall and carpet replacement and painting, or it may require larger repairs such as the reconstruction of several walls or rooms of the home or building.

About Our Mold Remediation Services in Brevard County, Florida

SERVPRO of West Brevard specializes in mold removal, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained technicians are restoration professionals that utilize specialized equipment and proven techniques to properly remediate your mold concerns swiftly and securely. We service the residents of Rockledge, Viera, Palm Shores, and the Suntree/North Melbourne Area. Contact your SERVPRO office if you think your home or business may have mold issues and schedule a FREE Mold Assessment at 321-953-8600

Mold: Inside & Outside a House

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

Is there mold inside your Viera, Florida house and you don't understand how it could have got there. Picture: the mold came from high humidity.

Outside your Home

Mold naturally occurs in our environment and can produce useful results, such as yeast, blue cheese, and the lifesaving medication penicillin. Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold and different types of mold, and/or exposure to mold may present health concerns for some people.

Inside Your Home

The growth of mold is produced by a source of water, which acts as its food source. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. The intrusion of water in your home or place of business can result from storm damage, plumbing, or equipment failures, long-standing leaks, and poor humidity control. If humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores will thrive and multiple rapidly. The organic, sporous material found inside building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation are where mold flourishes and roots itself. Extreme mold development can lead to poor indoor environmental conditions that can pose a threat to anyone in the vicinity for a long period of time.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of West Brevard specializes in mold cleanup, removal, and restoration. Our highly trained technicians are IICRC restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely. We service the residents of Viera, Rockledge, Suntree, and Palm Shores, Florida. Don’t hesitate to contact your local SERVPRO mold professionals if you think an area in you home may contain mold. Schedule a Mold Assessment at 321-953-8600

Think You May Have Mold, But Can’t See Any

1/31/2018 (Permalink)

Is there no visible signs of mold, but you think there may be mold somewhere behind the drywall or baseboards. Here is how you can find out!

Do you think you have mold in your Florida home, but you cannot see any visible evidence anywhere? In this kind of situation, I would recommend hiring an Industrial Hygienist or more commonly known has mold inspectors.

How They Detect Mold

Industrial Hygienist are equipped with highly sensitive air testing equipment which will count the number of mold spores inside and outside of your house. If the mold spore count inside is higher than outside, than the air samples have confirmed your suspicion of mold inside your home. To consider your house to be a safe and normal environment, the mold counts inside your house must be lower than outside. Not only can the industrial hygienist find out if there is mold present but can also discover the area that is infected and the specific types of mold.

After the air samples are taken, they are sent off to a lab to be processed. The industrial hygienist will receive the results and provide you with a mold report and mold protocol. The mold report provides the information of the kind of mold and the affected area. The mold protocol explains the specific procedures needed, the types of protective equipment required, and tools.

Not every mold issue requires air sampling. If you can see mold, sampling is not necessary. Instead you should take the proper steps towards removing the mold including calling your homeowners insurance company and find out if you have mold coverage and start filing a claim. Once you have determined if insurance will or will not be involve in the mold remediation process, it is now time to hire a mold remediation company like SERVPRO.

When the mold removal process is complete, the industrial hygienist will return to take air sample again. This will insure that the mold issue has been eliminate from your house, and that the restoration company has returned your house to preloss condition.

Warning: Do not try to diagnose your mold problems with a home testing kit. The kits are not accurate and typically don’t work. They’ll probably reveal some mold, but only because spores are always flying in the air. (NOTE: It is impossible to eliminate ALL mold spores in the air.)

Home kits can’t:

• Guarantee a statistically significant sample of air.
• Confirm the presence of dead mold spores (which also cause health problems).
• Determine baseline levels of mold in your home to compare results with other non-mold-infected areas.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of West Brevard specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our technicians are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely. We service the Florida residents of Rockledge, Viera, Suntree and Melbourne. Don’t hesitate to contact our West Brevard, Florida office staff to start getting your home back to the way it was, and our technicians and contractor will have your home look “Like it never even happened.” Schedule a mold assessment at 321-953-8600

Not Home For the Holidays

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

Are you traveling during the holidays and not going to be home? Use these 5 tips to protect your home while you're away.

Spending quality time with your families may be one of the best parts of the holiday season. For many of us, we live in another city or state than our family. Which means start packing up and get the family ready to head out. Before you leave, it’s important take the proper precautions to keep your house safe while you’re away.

The holidays can be the most wonderful time of the year, as long as you take the steps needed to protect your house for when you return.

Turn Down your Thermostat

Not only will you save money on your electricity or gas bill by turning off the heat or AC, but you limit your chances of an AC leak or furnace malfunction while you’re away from you home.

Notify a Neighbor

Be sure to notify a trusted neighbor. Ask the neighbor to keep an eye on your house and report any suspicious activity. You’ll also want this neighbor to keep your walks cleared of snow and to pick up your mail and newspapers while you are away. Make sure your house looks like somebody is home to deter a burglar.

Check your Holiday Lights for Fraying or Damage

December is the deadliest month for electrical fires. Before you string lights on the house or the tree, be sure to inspect the strands to make sure there aren’t any frayed cords or cracked lamps. Replace any broken lamps and throw away strands with frayed cords. This will help prevent any accidental fires. 

Inspect the Furnace & the Chimney

Heating-equipment, like furnaces and fires can cause many deaths every year in the United States. In fact, in 2008, the U.S. Fire Administration reported approximately 2,650 people were killed by house fires. Take the time to have a professional come inspect your furnace and clean the chimney before you need to heat your home.

Turn Off your Water

By turning off your water, it ensures that you won’t come home to water damage. Appliances malfunction when you least expect it and if the water is turned off there is no chance your water heater or pipes will leak.

Locally Owned, with National Resources

SERVPRO of West Brevard is locally owned and operated so we are part of Viera and Rockledge, Florida community too. When you have a fire, flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. As fire and water damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly.  Please call (321) 953-8600.

Avoiding Thanksgiving Kitchen Fires

11/15/2017 (Permalink)

Avoid kitchen fires this Thanksgiving by staying alert while cooking and knowing safety protocols if a fire does breakout.

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and house injuries. The leading cause of fires in kitchens is unattended cooking.

Stay Alert While Cooking

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains.

Safety Protocols for Cooking Fires

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• For an over fires, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires.

Locally Owned & Operated

SERVPRO of South Brevard is locally owned and operated so we are part of the Melbourne Beach, Florida community too. When you have a fire, flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help.

As fire and water damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly.  Please call (321) 953-8600

What You Should Know About Water Damage

12/29/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a very difficult situation for any homeowner. But there are certain tips that can help save you time and money. There are also things you shouldn’t do as it can make the situation worse. Here are some tips to guide you in dealing with water damage in your home. 

Do not open the windows

It may seem like instinct to immediately open up any and all windows when you first discover unexpected moisture, but that could actually make matters worse. You want to avoid any excess heat and humidity in order to not complicate the drying process. Instead, call SERVPRO immediately so that the moisture can be examined and removed right away. It is also wise to pull any wet materials or furniture away from the water so that they do not become damaged. Keeping the windows closed will allow the air system to run as it usually does and maintain a stable environment for proper drying.

Your insurance company needs to know right away

When water damage occurs, the best method of defense is calling SERVPRO immediately to schedule an inspection and begin the treatment process. It is also extremely important that the next phone call you make is to your insurance company to get more information on if and what they will cover. Your insurance agent can guide you through the process and help protect your property from further damage. This is important information that can impact the value of your property if it is not addressed immediately and correctly.

Not all water damage is covered by insurance

There are different insurance policies for flood damage and water damage, so not all water damage is created equal. These are things your insurance agent will have questions about and need as much information as possible in order to report a claim. Make sure to specify where the water came from and how much there is so that your insurance company can work with you to handle the situation the best way possible. Most policies cover things like sudden damage such as an overflowing washing machine or a storm, but situations caused by neglect or carelessness are not typically covered by insurance. It is also important to know if you have a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Policy so that your insurance company can adjust your claim appropriately.

Where the water came from matters

Not only does where the water came from matter for repairs, it matters because the water may be polluted. Water alone can be extremely damaging if it is not dealt with immediately, and if there are any chemicals or bacteria in it can speed up the damaging process and even cause illness. There is a 24 to 48 hour window from the time that water is exposed to an area and the time that mold begins to grow. Mold multiplies quickly and can be extremely dangerous to the health of anyone around it so it is vital that it does not have the opportunity to spread within the water.

Standing water breeds bacteria so that means that any contamination the water touches is spreading germs and can worsen the contamination of your property the longer it is there. The worse the contamination becomes, the more extensive the cleaning process becomes. It is important to address the situation immediately so the water does not breed any bacteria and is removed before further damage occurs.

What not to do

Beyond keeping windows shut and calling SERVPRO and your insurance company, there are several other things you should not do in the case of water damage. Do not leave wet fabrics in the standing water or they will be ruined. Also, do not leave any books or magazines on wet carpets or floors. Avoid turning on any televisions or household appliances that may have been exposed to the standing water as a safety precaution. No matter how tempting it may be, leave the water removal process to the professionals and do not use your household vacuum to remove the water yourself.

SERVPRO can remove water and prevent damage

When unwanted moisture accumulates, the highly trained technicians at SERVPRO use advanced water damage inspection and extraction equipment to find and remove it as quickly as possible. The water damage experts will monitor and document the drying process so that you know your property is back to normal. SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the water restoration industry and is able to take on water damage incidents of all types, including storm damage, mold remediation, sewage cleanup, and commercial water damage.

Avoiding Water Damage Caused by Runoff

12/16/2016 (Permalink)

Whenever it rains on your home, runoff will occur. All homes are specifically designed to deal with this runoff so that it doesn’t negatively affect the home. If the water runoff from the roof is not properly handled, it can cause serious problems for the home such as putting into question the stability of the structure or causing water damage to the inside and outside of the home. These are some of the ways that water runoff is dealt with in homes.

Problems Caused by Runoff

The biggest problem that can be caused by water runoff is the structural integrity of the building. If a large amount of water collects near the building’s foundation, it can get absorbed into the soil and can put enough pressure on the foundation that it can cause it to break. Additionally, if a significant amount of water runs down the side of the building, it can wear away at the siding, walls, and the foundation.

Another problem that can occur from a large amount of runoff is that large sections of the landscaping can quickly erode. If this problem occurs, soil and plants can be stripped away and damage can be caused to adjacent aspects of the home such as driveways and sidewalks.

Gutters as a Defense

The first line of defense when it comes to water runoff from the roof are the gutters. Lining the entirety of the house, the sole purpose of the gutters is to collect the water that comes off the roof and direct it far away from the house so that it doesn’t cause any damage to the side of the house or the foundation. Due to the significant impact that gutters have on directing runoff away from the structure, properly maintaining your gutters are crucial to protecting your home from water damage. Gutters often collect leaves and other debris so regularly cleaning the gutters to ensure that there are no blockages is a simple maintenance task that will go a long way to avoiding water damage.

Landscape Drainage

The sole purpose of landscape drainage is to collect the water that comes out of the gutters and redirecting this excess water away so it doesn’t damage your landscape. A very common way of setting up landscape drainage is by using gravel and underground drain pipes. Gravel is strong enough that it can hold up the ground while featuring enough space to allow water to flow through it and into the pipes below. Once the water flows down into the drain pipes, it is directed to a drain field that is located far from the house.

Foundation Drainage

The purpose of a foundation drainage system is to protect your foundation if a large quantity of water accumulates near it. If installing a foundation drainage system is necessary, it will be set up right next to the foundation and will feature layers of gravel and drain pipe. Unlike landscape drainage systems, which are near the surface of the landscape, a foundation drainage system gets buried down at the bottom of the foundation walls. If large quantities of water accumulate around the foundation, the system will redirect as much water as possible away from the foundation to avoid any potential damage.

Foundation Waterproofing

A way to keep your foundation safe from any potential runoff that may direct water toward the foundation is through foundation waterproofing. If this is the right course of action for your home, the exterior of the foundation will be coated with a waterproofing membrane which will provide extra protection from water. The process of installing this waterproofing involves excavation next to the foundation which is done to ensure that all sides of the foundation are covered by the application. The membrane then forms a seamless waterproof barrier around the entirety of the foundation.

Runoff from the roof of a house has the potential to cause significant damage to the home if it is not properly dealt with. To avoid any of these potential problems from occurring, gutters direct water away from the home and drainage systems are often installed to protect landscaping and the building’s foundation from becoming damaged. If water damage does occur to your home, call on the professionals at SERVPRO to restore the home.

Common Issues with Gutters

11/30/2016 (Permalink)

When water gets into the foundation of your home, it has the potential to cause structural issues to the home. The result of a wet foundation can also be windows and doors sticking to their frames. Gutters are installed on houses and connected to downspouts precisely to avoid this problem. These systems are essential in protecting the structure and integrity of your home. But, in order for these systems to work, you will need to ensure that these systems are free from clogs, holes, and sags.

Clogged Gutters

The most common problem that tends to occur with gutters are clogs caused by debris. The additional weight that is caused due to the accumulation of leaves, twigs, and standing water will cause the gutters to sag and pull away from the house. To avoid such a situation, you should clean your gutters at least once each year, twice if you have trees hanging over your gutters. Once the gutters are free of debris, you should use a hose to spray the gutters to make sure that the water is flowing as it should. Another option to consider are gutter covers. These cover the gutters from above featuring mesh screens, clip-on grates, and porous foam but still require regular maintenance.

Sagging Gutters That Pull Away from the House

If your gutters are sagging or starting to pull away from the house, the problem more than likely has to do with the hangers. The gutter hangers are the metal pieces of the system that secure the gutters to the fascia. They are easily noticeable as they stretch across the inside of the gutter. Over time, normal wear and tear may have caused these hangers to deteriorate. Other issues with the hangers may be that the fasteners may be detaching from the wood or that they are spaced too far apart so that they can no longer support the full weight of the gutters.

Damage to the Gutters

If your gutters have suffered damage, they may be leaking or have holes in them. If the issue is a leaky gutter joint, the issue can be solved by sealing the joint with caulking from the inside with gutter sealant. Likewise, any holes that are very small should be able to be sealed with gutter sealant. Big holes, however, will require a patch to be fixed.

Poorly Sloped Gutters

A common problem with gutters are that the gutters are not sloped down toward the downspouts. This means that the water cannot flow freely to the downspouts and down to the ground. To ensure that your gutters are properly sloped, you should have at least a quarter inch slope for every ten feet. If you have a rainstorm and there is standing water in your gutters following the storm without clogged gutters being an issue, your gutters are not sloped correctly. The proper course of action is to ensure that the gutters are sloped correctly to the downspout to ensure that the water can properly flow down to the ground and away from the house.

Water Draining Toward Foundation

For the downspouts to be effective, they should extend several feet away from the house. If the downspouts are located too close to the house, water can collect at the foundation. If the water drains into the foundation, serious issues to the home such as structural problems or windows and doors sticking to their frames could be caused. If your downspouts are draining too close to the foundation, consider installing gutter extensions to the bottom of the downspouts. This will ensure that the water drains away from the house far enough that it doesn’t cause any damage to the foundation of the home. 

Gutters are an essential part of keeping water damage from effecting your home. When rainwater collects in the gutters or runs off the roof, the gutters drain the water into the downspouts which flow the water far away from the home and its foundation. Issues such as clogged gutters or sagging gutters could cause water to build up and damage the gutters. If the downspouts do not direct the water far enough from the home, it could infiltrate the foundation causing serious and expensive damage to the home. If you suffer from water damage in your home, call on the professionals at SERVPRO.

Maintaining Home Value After Water Damage

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

Your home is one of the biggest investments of your lifetime. It is where you rest, play, spend time with family, it is your own retreat away from the hustle and bustle from the busy world. Protecting your home is the first step in valuing it for the importance piece of your life that it is. Prevention and repair are key to maintaining a home that will retain its worth and continue to be a haven for you and your family. That means that if any damage occurs in your home, it is crucial to address it immediately in order to conserve the value.

As a homeowner, it is of the utmost importance that damage of any form, water, fire, mold, or storm be made a top priority. Even if it appears that there is only a small amount of damage, the reality is that damage only gets worse as time goes on. Taking action and having the area inspected as quickly as possible usually results in a much simpler and more cost friendly repair than if the damage has time to grow. Repairing damage quickly also guarantees that the cost value of your home is not negatively effective and can still remain a positive investment in your life and your wallet.

When damage occurs, the first thing to do is call SERVPRO and get in touch with a 24-7 technician. SERVPRO is available all day, every day to assure that no damage goes unrepaired. Help will be on the way as soon as your call is placed and a highly trained specialist will be on the scene ready to begin the inspection process. Everything from water removal, and carpet cleaning to television repair falls under the SERVPRO cleanup and restoration umbrella and is executed by the best in the industry.

Here are just a few reasons why calling SERVPRO to repair damage immediately is so beneficial to the overall value of your home and property:

Selling Your Home in the Future

If you plan on selling your home at any point, you definitely want to get the most out of your sale. It is not possible to sell a home for the same amount or more of the purchase price if damage of any kind has occurred and was not addressed properly.

It is required that the fact any water or fire damage occurred to the home or property be disclosed before the purchase of your home is made. So if the damage was not repaired properly, it will definitely be noticed. On top of that, homes must pass inspection before the purchase is made as well. If the repaired damage does not pass the inspection, that could mean your home may not sell for the price it is listed as.

Refinancing Your Home Down the Road

When refinancing your home, it must be inspected and reported on by an appraiser. If any damage has occurred and not dealt with, your home will lose dollar value and be considered less valuable than the original price you bought it for. The whole point of refinancing is to end up spending less money on your home and that simply is not possible if damage occurs and is noticed.

Damage Only Gets Worse if Not Treated

They say everything gets better with time, but that is not the case for homes if they are not maintained. When damage occurs, it only gets stronger with time. Call SERVPRO immediately so that the damage does not increase and end up burning a hole in your pocket. SERVPRO not only helps with damage of the actual home, but also helps care for your belongings. That means that your home can quickly be restored with attention to detail of everything within the damaged area.

When big money is spent on something so important as a home for you and your family, it is absolutely worth it to respect the large investment and maintain the quality of the purchase. Repairing water, fire, or storm damage immediately with the help of SERVPRO gives you peace of mind that your home will not lose its value and continue to be the investment of a lifetime.

4 Reasons Why Water Damage Requires Professional Restoration

10/10/2016 (Permalink)

If you suffer water damage in your home, you might be under the impression that you can simply clean it up yourself. However, in any situation where you have this type of damage, it is very important that only professionals handle the cleanup job. Attempting to clean up the mess yourself could result in even worse damage as the condition of the damage worsens over time.

What most people who suffer from water damage often don’t realize is that the longer water damage goes untreated, the more permanent the damage becomes. Allowing damage to go untreated for days, or even hours, can result in possessions that could have been saved now having to be thrown out. It also can result in health issues such as mildew or mold growing throughout the home. The following are four important aspects to look out for during a water damage cleanup and why only professionals should handle the cleanup.

Hidden Structural Damage

Whenever the professionals at SERVPRO are called in to restore a home that has suffered from water damage, the very first thing they do is an assessment. This assessment is to ensure that they fully understand the damage that has occurred so that they can properly restore the building. One of the assessments that takes place is a structural assessment. Certain damage that occurs in the home may be obvious to the homeowner such as rotting wood or holes in the ceiling. But there can also be hidden structural damage.

When water comes through the roof due to missing or broken shingles or some other problem, the water can go through the attic and seep down the walls causing additional issues. Flowing down inside the walls, the water can cause wooden beams that hold the house up to rot as well. However, due to the fact that these are hidden behind the wall, most homeowners would probably not even think to look there. Additionally, health issues such as mold or mildew can occur behind these walls in areas that are not visible. If left untreated, these situations can cause structural problems for the building and over time could cause other issues to the home and its occupants.

Dangerous Conditions

Cleaning up water damage can be a dangerous task based on the conditions the damage has created in the home. Hidden structural damage, mold, and other contaminants such as chemicals and sewage have the ability to infiltrate the building during the event. When cleaning up water damage, it’s important to take certain safety precautions to ensure that you don’t suffer an injury or fall to an illness. Not only will hiring a professional clean up service ensure that you don’t have such an issue, but they are specially trained to protect themselves and those around them from suffering such a fate.

Right Equipment

When cleaning up water damage, it’s important to completely dry the affected area. Failure to do so could result in worse damage which could include problems such as mold and mildew. You may think that you have properly dried the affected area using towels but any type of remaining water or dampness could result in the problems worsening. When professional restoration services arrive to handle the cleanup, they use specialized equipment that is designed the ensure that the entire area is properly dried.

Speed of Clean Up

One of the most important parts of cleaning up water damage is the time in which the cleanup occurs. Within the first hour of the damage occurring, floors and carpets may begin to show permanent stains and paper products will be permanently damaged. Within 24 hours, drywall may begin to break down and metals begin to tarnish. Within 48 hours to a week, mold and mildew may grow and spread, furniture may start to warp, paint may blister, and woods may swell and warp. If you wait more than a week to have the damage cleaned up by professionals, much of the damage will be irreversible and the cost of the cleanup will increase significantly. For these reasons, it’s important to call professionals immediately to begin the cleanup so your home can be restored as much as possible.

Water damage can be a devastating event for any homeowner. It has the potential to cause structural damage to your home and a costly cleanup. The longer you wait to address the problem, the greater the damage will be. Additionally, attempting to clean up the damage yourself could result in the damage worsening. Calling on the professionals at SERVPRO to clean up any of your water damage will ensure that any salvageable items will be restored and the damage to your home will be limited as much as possible.

6 Places to Check Your Home for Water Damage

9/26/2016 (Permalink)

In just a matter of hours, a simple leak can turn into devastating water damage. Due to how quickly water can cause significant damage in a home, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent the damage from getting worse. The following are six places you can check in and around your home to make sure you’re not at risk of water damage.

Take a Look at Your Walls and Ceilings

The easiest way to tell whether or not you have water damage is by checking the walls and ceilings. If there are stains on the walls or ceilings, it’s likely that you have water damage. While you’re at it, take a look at the windows and door frames. Any unusual stains on them could be a sign that you have a leaky pipe or a leaky drain inside the wall. Other ways to check if you have water damage in your walls include cracks in the drywall, swollen parts of the wall, and areas that are unusually soft when touched on the wall.

Glance at Your Floors

Water damage has the ability to impact any type of flooring and can seep deep down into the sub floor. If you have any warping or buckling occurring in your floors, this is a tell-tale sign that you have water damage. This goes even more so if you have a basement. White or dark stains that appear on wood floors, damp carpeting, and if there’s a general smell of dampness or mold around the house, your floors have more than likely been affected by water damage.

Inspect Your Piping

If there are any leaks, water stains, or corrosion around the piping in your kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, or basement, the cause is water damage. Also check your pipe connections to make sure that they are properly connected. If you have any missing or loose caulking around your bathroom fixtures, the likely cause is that water is seeping through. Additionally, any missing grout or signs of mold, be it visually or olfactory, will alert you that there is water damage in your home. Water heaters are a common cause of water damage in homes so check for any wet spots on the floor or any rust around the tank.

Inspect Your Basement

Water damage often occurs in the basement so, if you have a basement, be aware of the possibility that water damage could occur. This type of damage typically occurs to the flooring, baseboards, walls, and furniture. A lesser known problem that can occur due to water damage in basements comes from the odor of mold or mildew. This can cause health problems for occupants of the home. To make sure that there is no water damage in your basement, look around for any cracks, stains, rust, dampness, mold, or unusual odors.

Check Out the Attic

Being right underneath the roof, the last line of defense against the elements, an attic can be susceptible to water damage. If your attic shows any stains, mold, or any other signs of leaks, you need to take care of the issue immediately. While you’re up there, take a close look at the valley where two separate roof planes intersect. Typically, there’s flashing where the roof and wall meet as well as around any roof vents or chimneys. Inspect these to ensure that there are no openings where water could seep through. Any insulation in your attic should be dry and in good condition, as it’s there to protect your home from water. If you live in a colder climate, ice dams have the ability to form which could cause water to leak into the attic when snow melts or from ice on the roof.

Check the Exterior of the Home

Your roof is built to protect you from the elements, which includes water. So check your roof for any damaged flashing and missing, cracked, or curled shingles as these could allow water to seep into your attic. If you have standing water anywhere around the outside of your home, this could be troublesome. This could be due to poor drainage in your yard, leaky rain gutters, or your gutter spouts may not be sending the water that falls from the roof far enough away from your house. This water could damage the foundation of your home.

Avoiding water damage should be a top priority for any homeowner as it has the ability to cause thousands of dollars worth of damage. The best way to avoid water damage is to keep an eye out for any potential dangers around your home. These six places to check around your home will help you avoid such a fate. If you do end up suffering from water damage, the professionals at SERVPRO are your solution.

SERVPRO Employee Shows Commitment to Community

9/1/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s commitment to their community is never ending. Not only are SERVPRO employees there to help those in need due to water, fire, or mold damage, but even when they’re not working, they are committed to supporting their neighbors. 

Recently, a tree fire in Melbourne Beach gave a special SERVPRO employee an opportunity to help out in his neighborhood. Through a selfless act in support of his community outside of his job, this employee exemplifies the spirit that SERVPRO looks to set. The incident also was a lesson in working around power lines and the damage that can occur if those untrained operate around them.

Melbourne Beach Fire

In the late afternoon of Friday, August 19, a Melbourne Beach resident was having their trees trimmed. During the process of grooming a tree, one of the branches fell onto an arching power line, which resulted in the tree catching fire.

Florida Power and Light was called onto the scene to cut the power to the neighborhood and avoid any further problems. The Melbourne Beach Volunteer Fire Department was called to the scene to put out the blaze and keep the fire from spreading, potentially causing harm to residents of the area.

One of the firefighters that was called to the scene was Melbourne Beach volunteer firefighter Heath Parks, who also happens to be a commercial marketing representative for SERVPRO. Parks responded to the call and assisted in extinguishing the flames before anyone in the neighborhood was injured.

Parks’ selfless service as a volunteer firefighter shows his commitment to SERVPRO by exhibiting a dedication to serving his community.

Lessons from the Fire

The Melbourne Beach fire was a good example for residents as it showed how dangerous cutting trees can be when done around power lines. While you can direct branches to fall a certain direction by cutting them a certain way, there’s never a guarantee that they will fall that way. It’s important that only specially-trained tree trimmers cut any branches around power lines as they are trained to cut the branches decreasing the likelihood that the branches will fall on any power lines. They are also trained on safety precautions should anything fall on power lines to keep injuries to a minimum.

Touching a power line, either by yourself or using an object such as a ladder, pole, or pruning saw, can result in serious injuries or worse. Specially-trained tree trimmers know how to avoid touching the power lines when using such equipment. An untrained user might accidentally touch the line which could result in serious harm.

Some people believe that simply using non-metallic ladders or equipment will help them to avoid any potential dangers should it touch the power lines. But even non-metallic ladders and equipment have the ability to conduct electricity. A simple touch of the power lines could result in serious injury to those in contact with the ladder or equipment.

To avoid any of these potential situations, Florida Power and Light recommends staying 10 feet away from any power lines. This includes the tip of anything that you may be carrying. Doing so will help you avoid getting too close to the lines and potentially electrocuting yourself.

Why It’s Important to Avoid Power Lines

The obvious reason to avoid power lines is because you could seriously injure yourself and those around you. However, that’s not the only damage that can occur. As evidenced in the Melbourne Beach fire, a branch falling on a power line can cause a tree to go up in flames. If that tree is hanging over a house, it could potentially catch the building on fire, causing even more significant damage.

In the Melbourne Beach fire, the quick thinking and proper training of the Melbourne Beach Volunteer Fire Department ensured that there was nobody injured and no further damage was caused. But under different circumstances, things could’ve been much worse and caused extensive and costly damage.

Heath Parks and his fellow Melbourne Beach volunteer firefighters handled themselves well and were able to extinguish the flames before any further damage occurred to the community. While it worked out in this situation, things could’ve gone much differently. As proud as we are of Heath in his professionalism and service to his community, it’s a cautionary tale of how dangerous power lines can be and why only specially-trained professionals should operate around them.

Why Professionals Should Handle Sewage Cleanup

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

If you suffer from flooding or a broken pipe in your home, the result could be the release of sewage. While any type of water damage in dangerous to your home and your health, the release of sewage is even more dangerous requiring immediate action. With the existence of unsanitary water in your home comes the possibility of the contracting bacteria and viruses that could result in serious illness. If this is a problem in your home, professionals should be called to handle the situation as they have the special training and equipment necessary to clean that type of contamination.

Types of Contaminated Water

There are three types of contaminated water that may exist as a result of water damage; category one, category two, and category three.

Category One – Clean Water

Category one, known as clean water, is water damage resulting from water that comes from a clean source such as a broken clean water supply line or a faucet. If this type of water damage is left untreated, it has the potential to turn into the more dangerous categories of two or three. The factors that must be taken into account as it pertains to the severity of the water damage includes time, temperature, and whether it has come into contact with contaminants.

Category Two – Gray Water

Category two, known as gray water, is water damage that has a large amount of contamination. This type of water damage has the possibility of causing discomfort or illness should it be ingested. Sources that could release gray water include washing machine overflow, toilet overflow with some urine but no feces, and dishwasher overflow.

Category Three – Black Water

Category three, known as black water, is very unsanitary with the potential to cause severe illness or death if it’s ingested. Any contact with this type of contaminated water should be avoided at all costs. Sources of this type of water include flooding from rivers or streams, water that comes from beyond the toilet trap, toilet overflow with feces, and standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

Depending on what type of water damage you have, the water could range from relatively harmless to extremely dangerous. To ensure that you remain safe regardless of what type of water damage you have, it’s important to hire professionals to handle the cleanup and restoration. The following are some reasons why only professionals should handle the cleanup of sewage.

Safety

Safety should always be the top priority when dealing with dangerous materials such as sewage. To avoid potential safety problems, you should never deal with sewage yourself but call professionals to perform the cleanup. Raw sewage has the potential to produce and spread a variety of dangerous germs and bacteria that could create illness and, if serious enough, potentially death. Those who are pregnant, elderly, or have a weakened immune system are more susceptible to these viruses.

Professionals have the training and experience to follow the appropriate safety protocols to ensure a safe and proper cleanup. This involves the wearing of protective gear that is specifically designed to protect from diseases such as those potentially spread by raw sewage.

Quick Cleanup

When dealing with sewage, it’s important to have it cleaned up as soon as possible because the longer that you allow sewage to remain, the worse it will get. Relatively clean water can turn into a hazard in little time. Seemingly harmless water damage can turn into a serious problem in as soon as 12 to 24 hours. Most people don’t have the time or capability to clean up water damage in that short period of time. A professional crew can arrive in a few hours to begin the cleanup.

Additional Problems

While a water damage or sewage cleanup does involve cleaning up dirt and waste, it’s more than that. The cleanup could also involve cleaning up mold biohazard and broken plumbing or a septic tank. Most people don’t know how to clean up these things but professionals do. They also will be able to inform you on which of your possessions are able to be safely cleaned or restored.

Due to its ability to get significantly worse in a short period of time, water damage should be cleaned up quickly. That’s even more so if raw sewage is involved through flooding or a broken pipe. For the safety of you and your family, it’s important to leave the cleanup of sewage to professionals that are specifically trained for such occasions. If you have a release of sewage in your home, call on the trusted professionals at SERVPRO to restore your home.

7 Systems to Inspect for Water Damage

8/1/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage can be costly and difficult to clean up. If you do suffer water damage in your home or business, you should hire the professionals at SERVPRO to restore the building as attempting to do so yourself could make matters worse. The following are systems to keep an eye on that might be a source of potential water damage.

HVAC Systems

In order to keep a comfortable environment in your home, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems need to be properly maintained. Failure to do so could result in costly water damage. Most HVAC systems will produce condensation that must drain. This condensation usually accumulates in pans and then escapes through pipes. If water that accumulates in the pans is not expelled through the pipes, it can potentially lead to corrosion and water overflow that can result in significant water damage.

To ensure that your HVAC systems don’t cause significant and costly damage, include it in your regular maintenance. Make sure that all of the pans, drains, and pumps that collect condensation are functioning properly. This will help you catch any potential hazards before they become serious problems.

Water Heaters

Water heaters are consistently holding and transferring water. So when a water heater fails, it ends up releasing the water that it’s holding which can cause serious water damage to your property. While not always the case, usually water heaters fail over time and water deposits collect at the bottom of the tank and piping.

To keep from suffering water damage due to your water heater, inspect it regularly for any potential signs of failure. Regardless of whether there are problems with it or not, water heaters should be replaced every 10 years. Ways to help avoid water heater-related damage include installing a method of channeling water out of the building such as a sump pump and installing an automatic shut-off valve.

Damaged Roofing

Roofs are designed to keep water out through a system of coverings, flashing, metal work, and sealants. If water does get in through the roof, it can cause damage such as rot or mold growth in the building as well as structural damage. Keeping an eye on the roof through regular visual inspections will help you ensure that all the roofs draining systems are working properly and that there is no damage in the roof that could cause a leak.

Windows

Windows contain caulk and seal that are meant to keep water from entering the home. However, they require some routine maintenance to ensure that they are water tight. If water is able to get through, it has the potential to cause significant damage. Keeping an eye on the windows to ensure no water is getting through and applying caulk or repairing sealant when necessary will help ensure the building is being protected from potential water damage.

Exterior Walls

While the exterior walls of a building are designed to shed water, they are not designed to protect against standing water. If standing water does push against the exterior walls, it has the potential to deteriorate the protective layers and create space for water to enter. The best way to prevent potential water damage due to standing water is to ensure that the landscaping or grading diverts any water away from the walls so that it doesn’t stand up against the wall.

Freezing

When the temperature drops below freezing, sprinkler systems and water pipes have the potential to freeze. This can cause the systems or pipes to burst creating significant water damage. Pneumatic controls are relied upon by any equipment that contains water usage or produces condensation. These pieces of equipment are especially susceptible to freeze and water bursts. Identifying any equipment that might be susceptible to freezing and insulating any exterior pipes are ways you can avoid potential damage caused by system or pipe bursts.

Sewer Backups

Sewage backups happen when the sewer systems are over capacity or when a blockage is causing a backup. The excess water that comes through a blockage has the potential to force any sewage through floor drains, toilets, and sinks. As these backups tend to happen over time, keeping an eye out for any potential blockages can help prevent future water damage.

Water damage has the ability to cause severe damage to your home and force a costly restoration. These tips will help to prevent potential water damage in areas that may be susceptible to water damage. If you do suffer water damage, make sure to contact that professionals at SERVPRO immediately for a full restoration.

Safety Tips Following a Flood

7/18/2016 (Permalink)

A flooded home is a devastating event for any homeowner. It has the ability to ruin many of your possessions in addition to your property itself. Due to the fact that water damage can quickly become permanent if not addressed as soon as possible, if you do suffer flood damage to your home, it’s important that you call the professionals at SERVPRO to help restore the home. However, there are some things that you can do before they arrive. Here are some things you can do immediately after a flood to start the restoration process.

Call Your Insurance Agent

Regardless of how bad a flood has hit your home, it’s likely done some significant damage to some of your possessions and to the structure of your home. Soon after you recognize the damage, you should call your insurance agent. Most water damage in the home is covered by homeowner’s insurance policies but you’ll want to contact them to make sure as there could be exclusions.

Check Before Entering Home

Before you re-enter your home after flood damage, check for any structural damage that may have occurred. Severe flooding or water damage has the ability to compromise the integrity of the structure. If you enter the home without closely inspecting what you’re walking into, the building could potentially collapse, trapping you inside. Once you’ve entered the home, you should be very careful about where you’re walking, especially if you’re moving from carpeting onto a hard surface.

Document Evidence

Once you have entered the home, document the evidence of that damage that has been done by taking photos of it. If there are any questions, particularly by your insurance company about the validity of your claim, you’ll have evidence to show them. While you document the damage, save any items that you can. Some items, such as porous materials, may have been damaged beyond repair. When the SERVPRO crew arrives to restore the home, they’ll save as many items as possible. But if there are items that have not been damaged, you can take them out to avoid any further potential damage.

Take Inventory

While you’re examining the damage that has occurred in your home, make a list of the damage or lost items in the home. Make sure to include the date they were purchased and their value with any receipts you may have. Store that list with any inventory of your possessions that you may have taken before the flood. If any of your possessions must be disposed of, which some may, make sure you have photographs of the items.

Turn Off Power

After the flood damage occurs, turn off all power, especially to the affected rooms. Also refrain from using any electrical appliances as you could electrocute yourself if you’re standing in water. Keep the power to the home off until an electrician can come and thoroughly inspect the system to ensure it’s safe to turn back on again.

Boil Water

Boil any water that you plan on using for drinking or food preparation until the authorities say it’s safe to consume without boiling. Depending on the type of water damage (clean, grey, or black), it may be a while before water can be safely ingested by the residents.

Prevent Mold

Mold thrives in environments where moisture is present which makes flooded parts of a house ideal for mold growth. The existence of mold in a home can be hazardous so it’s important to prevent the mold from growing if at all possible. Removing any wet contents from the home as soon as possible will help to prevent such mold growth around the home.

Proper Protection

Regardless of how well you think you can clean up after a flood, you should call the professionals at SERVPRO to ensure that as much of your property is salvaged as possible. But if you do decide to start the cleanup process before they arrive, it’s important that you are properly attired. Wear long sleeves, pants, gloves, and boots when dealing with flood water to ensure your safety.

If you suffer flood damage in your home, you should contact the professionals at SERVPRO to clean up. But if you want to get the process started prior to their arrival, these tips will help you remain safe.

6 Signs You May Have A Leak

7/5/2016 (Permalink)

If your roof is leaking, it has the ability to cause significant damage to your home. As the water comes through the roof and attic, it will cause damage to your ceiling and walls. If the leak is not immediately addressed, it can cause problems to other parts of your house such as the floors and furniture. The key to avoiding this damage is through prevention and the way to prevent this damage is by being able to tell the signs that you may have a leak or may be in danger of a potential leak. Here are some signs to look out for to ensure that you don’t have a roof leak.

Missing or Damaged Shingles

You know you have a problem that must be addressed if you have missing or damaged shingles. This becomes an obvious point of entry for water as it is able to easily slip past these protective shingles and enter your home through the attic. Once it gets through the shingles, it has the ability to rot the wood sheathing underneath. To ensure that you don’t have any missing or damaged shingles that may be a potential problem, you should periodically inspect your roof. If any shingles are in need of replacement, do so as soon as possible to avoid any potential water damage down the road.

Flashing

Flashing is a weatherproofing mechanism in which the material, usually metal, covers joints of the roof where otherwise water would be able to come through. Due to the fact that flashing is specifically for keeping water from getting through the roof, problems with the flashing is a common source of leaks. While you’re inspecting your roof for any damaged or missing shingles, look for any corroded spots, small holes, or signs of rust that may be affecting the flashing on your roof. Also, check that the flashing is not coming loose as this is another problem that can allow water into the home.

Ceiling

Considering that most water damage coming from the outside will come through the roof, the ceiling is often the first visible sign of a leak. Sagging, bubbles, or soft places are tell-tale signs that there is water in the ceiling so if these appear on your ceiling, you should investigate to see if there’s a leak that needs to be addressed. Another problem you might notice is peeling paint or discolored paint. If any of these signs occur on your ceiling due to a leak, it needs to be addressed immediately as delaying fixing it can result in it worsening and causing more problems such as mold or additional damage.

Walls

Like the ceiling, water that’s inside the walls may be very noticeable due to peeling paint or discolored paint. Also, like with the ceiling, this has the potential to result in other problems such as mold or additional damage if it’s not addressed immediately when noticed. Other signs that there may be a water leak in the wall are moisture marks or stains that may appear gray, yellow, or brown. If drywall is coming undone, that’s a revealing sign that there’s water in the wall.

Attic

If you have an attic, it will be the area most susceptible to water damage if there is a problem with the roof such as flashing issues or damaged shingles. If you go up into the attic, it will be obvious if there’s a leak as you’ll see discolorations, water stains, or moldy area within the attic. Given that most people use an attic as a storage space, those possessions are obviously in danger of being damaged by the water. But that water can also come through the ceiling and get into the walls causing more problems such as mold which can be hazardous for occupants of the house.

Leaks in the roof are a main cause of water damage in homes. If there’s a problem with the flashing or shingles on the roof, water will easily penetrate your home resulting in issues such as extensive damage and mold. To avoid such problems, you should always be on the lookout for potential problems in your home. If you suffer from water damage in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO to remediate the situation.

Tips to Identify Water Damage Hazards

6/20/2016 (Permalink)

Apart from damaging personal possessions and bringing into question the integrity of a building, water damage has other negative effects such as increased maintenance costs, decrease in the value of a property, lower productivity, and it can be a potential liability with a possible decline in indoor air quality. While the professionals at SERVPRO can restore a building to its original state after water damage, it’s easier and cheaper to protect the building against water damage in the first place.

The best way to protect a building against the potential of water damage is to make sure that the building not susceptible to moisture and that all appliances are operating efficiently. The building’s components that enclose the structure, which are known as the building envelope, should be water-resistant. Additionally, the building’s manufacturing processes shouldn’t allow for excess water to accumulate and all plumbing and ventilation systems should be operating efficiently and should be well-maintained.

The following are tips to help prevent the possibility of water damage to a building.

Identify and Repair Any Leaks or Cracks

Any open areas in a building can be a source of potential water invasion. Even the smallest leak can cause substantial water damage so it’s important that there are no cracks where water may enter the building. While some leaks will be apparent to those inside the building, others will be small enough that only a close inspection will reveal the problem. Some of the common sources of water damage to a building include:

Windows and Doors

Leaks from windows and doors have the potential over time to cause significant water damage. For businesses, storefront system leaks can cause dangerous water damage.

Roof

Any problems with drainage systems or roof sloping has the potential to reduce the life span of a roof and can result in moisture infiltration. Vents for exhaust or plumbing or rooftop air-conditioning units are other common areas where leaks can occur.

Foundation and Walls

If there are any cracks or holes in the building’s walls, joints, or foundations, they need to be sealed to avoid potential water infiltration. This type of problem often occurs when there’s differential settlement which occurs when a building’s piers or foundation settles unequally due to the soil beneath the structure expanding, contracting, or shifting away.

Plumbing

Leaks in plumbing fixtures, dripping pipes, clogged drains, defective water drainage systems, and damaged manufacturing equipment can cause serious water damage no matter if it’s inside or outside of the building.

Ventilation, Heating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems

HVAC systems are made up of various components that have the ability to contribute to excess moisture which can, in turn, cause water damage. In areas with a humid climate, one of the primary functions of the system is to reduce the ambient air moisture level in the building. If the system isn’t operating properly, it won’t perform this function and will cause an increase in moisture.

Inspection and Maintenance

Many times half the battle of preventing water damage is knowing that there are dangers of it occurring. Certain parts of the building can be regularly checked to ensure that they’re in good working order and aren’t a danger of causing water damage.

Flashings and Sealants

Flashing are found around doors, windows, and roofs and are there to prevent water from coming into spaces where two different types of building materials come together. They are typically thin metal strips around the entrances. Sealants and caulking are usually applied to make sure no moisture is able to enter the building at its joints.

Vents

All vents need to have the appropriate hoods, exhaust to the outside, and be in good working order. If not, they could potentially be a cause of water damage.

HVAC

When checking your HVAC system for potential hazards, look for any leaks in the supply and return water lines, pumps, air handlers, or other components. All drain lines should be clean and clear of any obstructions and the ductwork should be insulated to avoid the existence of condensation on any exterior surfaces.

Humidity

The relative humidity in a building should be somewhere between 30 and 50 percent. If condensation appears on windows, wet stains appear on walls and ceilings, or there’s a musty smell in the building, the relative humidity may be too high.

By being aware of potential causes of water damage, you can prevent serious damage from occurring in your home. A quick inspection and routine maintenance will ensure that there are no hazards in the building that could become serious problems. But if you do suffer from water damage, call SERVPRO immediately to have the problem remedied.

SERVPRO West Brevard Named Top 100 Franchise

6/6/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO West Brevard has been recognized as one of the top 100 SERVPRO franchises in the nation. Additionally, the brand itself has been recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the top five franchises in their most recent ranking.

For the past 37 years, Entrepreneur Magazine has ranked the top 500 franchises in the country. These rankings are based on several factors which include financial strength and stability, growth rate, and the size of the system. This year, SERVPRO was named as the fourth ranked franchise overall and were the top franchise in the insurance/disaster restoration and cleaning industry. The only companies ranked ahead of SERVPRO were Jimmy John’s Sandwiches, Hampton by Hilton, and Supercuts.

Not only was SERVPRO ranked as the fourth best franchise, it was one of only five restoration and cleaning companies to be named to the top 500 list. The next closest competitor came in at number 155. This is the seventh straight year that SERVPRO has been ranked in the top 10 overall by Entrepreneur Magazine and the 13th consecutive year that they were listed as the top restoration company.

In addition to SERVPRO being named one of the top 500 franchises in the country, the company itself named SERVPRO West Brevard as one of the top 100 franchises in its annual Top 100 Franchises in the Nation list. This award recognizes the SERVPRO franchises that have contributed to making the company one of the top brands in America. It also recognizes those franchises that have shown dedication to serving their customers to the best of their ability.

Being named as one of SERVPRO’s top 100 franchises in the country in a tremendous honor for owner John Robertson and his team. The fact that SERVPRO itself was ranked so highly by Entrepreneur Magazine further solidifies SERVPRO West Brevard as the premier restoration and cleaning company in the area.

If you’re in need of restoration for water, fire, or mold damage, call on the premier restoration company in Brevard County to help.

Dangers of Water Damage

5/16/2016 (Permalink)

There are several different types of water damage that can affect the health of the occupants of a home or building. The most common types of water damage are clean water damage from leaking appliances, dirty water damage from plumbing issues, black water damage from flooding, bathroom-related water damage, and high indoor humidity. Based on the type of water damage that occurs and the amount of damage, the health effects can range from minimal to potentially significant.

The following are the different types of water damage, what can cause these types of water damage, and the health effects that can be caused by the damage.

Clean Water Damage

Clean water is given that name because it doesn’t contain harmful microorganisms. This type of water is used in most household appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, hot water systems, and sinks. Water damage that comes from issues with these appliances are typically caused due to leaks. Given that this water is free of harmful microorganisms, it’s quite safe to humans not causing any serious health problems. But while the water itself may be relatively safe, it should be cleaned up immediately as it could result in the growth of mold with 24 to 48 hours if left alone. Those mold spores could be potentially harmful, especially for people that suffer from allergies or asthma.

Dirty Water Damage

Dirty water damage is a type that can cause serious health problems to occupants. This type of damage is caused by plumbing issues, typically either sump pump failure or an overflowing toilet. As the water is already contaminated by a variety of microorganisms, it can cause serious health problems in addition to the usual mold growth, spore formation, and aerosolization. If you have dirty water damage, you should have professionals handle to cleanup to ensure a thorough cleaning. However, if you insist on cleaning it yourself, make sure you wear protective gear which includes rubber boots, thick non-porous gloves, long pants, a long sleeve shirt, goggles, and a face mask. When you’ve finished cleaning, disinfect that areas with industrial strength disinfectants that will kill any of the remaining microorganisms.

Black Water Damage

The most dangerous type of water damage is black water or floodwater. This type of water is already filled with several contaminants like microorganisms, raw sewage, as well as harmful and toxic chemical wastes. Only professionals that are trained and equipped to handle this toxic water should handle the cleanup process. However, if you do accidentally come into contact with floodwater, you should rinse the body part immediately with warm water and scrub it with soap, rinsing with hot water.

The cleaning of this type of water damage includes the removal of the water, cleaning, drying, and purifying the air getting rid of any harmful molecules that may remain and might have gotten airborne. Floodwater is also notorious for mold growth and spore formation. While mold growth itself is not a health hazard, the spores tend to get into the air and have the potential to get lodged into the inner surfaces of airway passages. In a healthy person, they can cause a cough, throat irritation, or sneezing. For someone with allergies or asthma, it can cause a life threatening asthma attack. If the mold remains untreated for years, it can cause respiratory and dermatologic issues.

Bathroom-related Water Damage

Given that most bathroom appliances use a great deal of water, it’s very easy to experience water damage in that part of the house. Performing regular maintenance in the bathroom can help to prevent such damage from occurring, especially under the sink, the bathroom tiles, and behind the toilet. If you witness water stains appearing, that is an indicator that there is the potential for mold growth.

High Indoor Humidity

Basements, crawlspaces, and the like are dark, damp, and warm and thus are ideal spaces for mold growth. A way to ensure that you don’t suffer mold growth in such spaces is to consider installing a dehumidifier.

Water damage can be quite troublesome for your health depending on the type of water damage and how much of it there is. If you suffer from water damage in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO for a full remediation.

Water Damage From a Leaky Roof

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

It may seem reasonable to put off repairing a leaky roof because there isn’t always apparent damage but that would be a mistake. A leaky roof can cause significant water damage which could result in other problems impacting the integrity of the structure and the health of its occupants.

Many people think of a leaky roof or water dripping in their home as just a nuisance. But as that water accumulates, water damage occurs around the home which over time can lead to other problems such as structural damage and health hazards.

Structural Problems

If your roof is leaking, that water may be falling right onto the attic floor. Usually when this happens, that water then travels along the underside of the roof decking to the walls and then down the wall framing. As the water continues to sit on the framing, the wet wood will begin to rot and will lose its strength. This will result in the roof potentially sagging, the wall bowing, and the foundation may become waterlogged and spongy. While it may take a few years to become noticeable, even small leaks can cause these problems. And when they are noticeable they’ll likely be quite expensive to repair.

Insulation and Mold Damage

As the water from the leak drips onto the attic insulation it can create more problems. The insulation could begin to congregate and lose its effectiveness. This will become noticeable when you receive your energy bill because, as the warm air leaves through the attic, the heat will need to be turned up in order to keep the house warm.

Another problem it causes is that the congregated and wet insulation becomes a haven for mold. If there is dry weather, the mold will grow. Due to the fact that mold can grow on virtually anything, it will likely continue to spread onto the different parts of the roof deck or the framing that’s been exposed to the water. If not immediately attended to, the mold will continue to grow and cause respiratory problems for occupants of the building.

Fire and Shock Hazard

As the water continues to drip from the roof through the house, there’s a danger that it could end up coming into contact with electrical wiring. Any break that there may be within the insulation may create an open circuit that could end up leading to a fire. If the water flows by metal junction boxes that have uncovered wires then it can be a serious hazard even without insulation damage. When water gets around open wiring it can become electrically charged and anything that ends up around it could get shocked. That includes anyone that comes into contact with it. Because there is such a danger of fire or shock if the water comes into contact with electricity, it’s important to shut off the power to any circuits that may be running through the affected area. In this situation, make sure to have an electrician come to investigate.

Other Water Hazards

While the building’s structural problems, mold damage, and fire or shock are all dangers of a leaky roof, there are other problems that could occur and be hazardous for occupants. As the water accumulates on the floor, it can create puddles that can cause those walking through it to slip. The water also has the ability to collect behind the drywall of the ceiling which could cause it to crumble or cave in. You can usually tell if this is happening because the drywall will begin to sag or bulge. If the roof deck is exposed to water, it can become deteriorated. With the plywood weakened by the water, there’s the potential that someone walking on it could step through the wood causing serious injury.

It may seem like a leaky roof is nothing more than little drops of water falling into parts of your house where you don’t even notice it. But those little drops accumulate and can become serious water damage resulting in structural issues to the building as well as health problems for the occupants. So if you have a leaky roof on your home, make sure to have it taken care of immediately to avoid further damage. But if you do have water damage, call the certified professionals at SERVPRO to remedy the problem.

What Causes Mold and How Can You Prevent It?

2/10/2016 (Permalink)

Being exposed to mold indoors can cause health effects, so it’s important that you know what causes mold and how to prevent mold from building up in you home, school, or office building. 

What Causes Mold?

Mold can be found almost anywhere and it can grow on virtually any organic substance so long as moisture and oxygen are present. It can grow on wood, paper, carpet, food, and insulation. The cause of indoor mold is excessive moisture accumulating in buildings or on building materials especially if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed for an extended period of time.

It’s impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in an indoor environment but indoor mold can be controlled by limiting the amount of moisture in the building. Moisture requires water to grow so preventing moisture problems from occurring inside buildings is of the utmost importance.

There are many causes of moisture problems including uncontrolled humidity. Some moisture problems have led to changes in building construction practices in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. In some situations they’ve resulted in buildings being tightly sealed but this can cause problems too. A building too tightly sealed may lack adequate ventilation, which could potentially lead to additional moisture buildup.

Moisture problems could include roof leaks, landscaping or gutters directing water into or under the building and unvented combustion appliances. Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance has been associated with moisture problems occurring in schools and large buildings. It’s easy to accumulate moisture in less insulated buildings like portable classrooms and other temporary structures so these types of buildings are more susceptible to having mold problems.

Prevention

Since mold can grow almost anywhere and on just about any organic substance, it’s very difficult to prevent mold from growing. However, there are preventative steps you can take that will decrease your chances in having mold in your building.

Because moisture is the cause of mold, fixing leaky plumbing or any other leaks as soon as possible in the building will go a long way toward preventing the appearance of mold. Also watch for condensation spots or wet spots around the building. Make sure to fix the source of this moisture as soon as possible to reduce the chances of it turning into mold.

The best way to prevent mold from building up in your building is to prevent moisture from accumulating in the building. You can do this by increasing the surface temperature or reducing the moisture level, the humidity, in the air. To increase the surface temperature in the building, insulate or increase the air circulation throughout the building. You can reduce the moisture level in the air by repairing any leaks in the building, increasing the ventilation if the air is cold and dry outside, or dehumidifying if the air is warm and humid outside.

Make sure to keep heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly, and unobstructed as this is another potential cause of mold growth in the building.

Hidden Mold

In some cases you could have hidden mold or indoor mold that may not be obvious. It’s possible that mold may be growing on hidden surfaces throughout the building such as the backside of drywall, wallpaper, paneling, the top of the ceiling tiles, or the underside of carpets and pads.

Possible locations where you could find hidden mold may be pipe chases and utility tunnels with leaking or condensing pipes, walls behind furniture where condensation can form, condensate drain pans inside air handling units, porous thermal or acoustic liners inside ductwork, or roof materials above the ceiling tiles which can be caused due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation.

There are some building materials like drywall with vinyl wallpaper or wood paneling that can act as vapor barriers that trap moisture underneath its surface providing a moist environment where mold can grow.

If your building smells moldy or you know there’s been water damage in the building, you may suspect mold is in the building even though you can’t see the source. If you start looking into hidden mold, it’s important to remember that investigating hidden mold may be difficult and will require caution. Be sure to always use personal protective equipment when investigating a potential mold problem.

If you think you have mold in your home, school, or office building, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO to remediate the problem.

SERVPRO of West Brevard Acquires SERVPRO of Osceola County

8/31/2015 (Permalink)

John & Kim Robertson

SERVPRO Industries, Inc. is proud to announce the new owners of SERVPRO of Osceola County.   John and Kim Robertson, franchise owners  of SERVPRO Of South Brevard and SERVPRO of West Brevard acquired ownership of SERVPRO of Osceola County.

SERVPRO of Osceola originally opened in 2005 by Sam Evans, and has served the Kissimmee and St. Cloud area for the last 10 years.

“I look forward to providing the highest level of service to our customers, and continue to serve this community,” said John Robertson.

SERVPRO is a leader in commercial and residential cleaning and restoration services. From residential fire smoke and water damage restoration, to large commercial disaster response, 

For more information on the services offered by SERVPRO of West Brevard,  contact our local franchise us at 321-953-8600.

Sprinkler System Breaks, Floods Tampa Luxury Condo

12/8/2014 (Permalink)

The Stovall Luxury condo was damaged by a broken sprinkler system

Sprinkler System Breaks, Floods Tampa Luxury Condo

For most Florida residents, they worry about flooding when a hurricane blows through and brings with it inches and inches of rain. However, for folks living in the Stovall on Bayshore Boulevard in Tampa, the flooding came from a most unexpected source--a broken sprinkler system.

On November 4th, gallon after gallon of water rolled down stairways and came through ceilings, causing millions of dollars in damages and displacing residents of all 33 units. Not only is electricity still shut off, but parts of the 22-story tower have so much standing water that the building resembles a Pirates of the Caribbean attraction at Disney. The accident, caused when a worker fell off scaffolding and grabbed a sprinkler pipe to break his fall, has caused residents to find living quarters wherever they can. Some are staying in hotels, while others are living in second homes or staying with friends or relatives.

According to condominium association president Gloria Giunta, despite the extensive damage to the building, it is expected to be fully repaired no later than Christmas. On that fateful Tuesday morning, Giunta was not at the Stovall but soon found her cell phone going crazy with calls from residents telling her about the crisis. Needless to say, she rushed back there only to find the place flooded with water and Tampa Fire and Rescue Personnel. Witnesses reported water dripping from light fixtures, staircases that resembled waterfalls and apartment after apartment with several inches of standing water. Despite firefighters reaching the main sprinkler pump and shutting it off, the damage was already done. As Tampa Fire and Rescue spokesman Jason Terry said, "You can't turn off gravity."

Fortunately for residents, SERVPRO responded to the scene and immediately began to set up fans and dehumidifiers to begin the cleanup and repair process. Crews from SERVPRO of West Brevard in South Florida assisted with the massive job of getting the building stabilized for additional repairs. With water and electricity shut off to all the tower's units, the repair process is slow at times yet steady. Some units are damaged more than others, with the biggest problems being damage to the building's electrical system and repairing wooden floors that are warped. Despite all the damage, some units are considered habitable. However, since there is no electricity in the building, most residents chose to live elsewhere while repairs are made.

The good news in all this is that no one, including the worker who fell, was injured during this incident. In addition, repair costs are expected to be covered by homeowner's and contractor's insurance policies. The building, completed in 2001, is home to many of Tampa's most prominent citizens including former University of Tampa president Bruce Samson. According to Giunta, the residents are very close-knit because there are only two units per floor, allowing people to get to know each other very well.

So while the incident made life very unpleasant in many ways, there was a bright side to the whole thing. Because of the damage to the Stovall's electrical system, the elevators were out for quite awhile. Due to this, people were forced to use the stairs more often, with many of them reporting losing a few pounds while getting fitter along the way. So when life gave these residents lemons, they simply made lemonade.

The 2014 National Preparedness Month Be Safe Viera!

9/14/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Brevard supports the 2014 National Preparedness Month awareness campaign, be prepared in Palm Bay be safe!

NPM 2014 Digital Engagement Toolkit

SERVPRO of West Brevard and the  National Preparedness Community is where we connect and collaborate on emergency preparedness. Use us to empower yourself to prepare and to coordinate preparedness activities with your family, neighbors, co-workers, and those with whom you may study or worship. We contribute what we can about what we know; ask for what we need; keep doing what is working; communicate about what is not working, and when possible, offer suggestions towards solutions. When we are connected and collaborate, we are more effective and efficient at educating and empowering ourselves to prepare for disasters and emergencies.

The Ready Campaign established four universal building blocks of emergency preparedness: Be informed, Make a Plan, Build a Kit, and Get Involved. America’s PrepareAthon! builds on this foundation by encouraging millions of Americans to focus on a simple, specific activity that will increase preparedness.

America’s PrepareAthon! a new national community-based campaign for action that focuses on increasing emergency preparedness through hazard-specific drills, group discussions and exercises. National PrepareAthon! Days are held every spring and fall. During National Preparedness Month we ask you, your family, community and workplace to take action by planning a National PrepareAthon! Day on or around September 30th. We recommend using digital media tools as a way to promote National Preparedness Month, September 1st-30th.

The 2014 National Preparedness Month theme is: “Be Disaster Aware, Take Action to Prepare”.

If you are in Melbourne, Palm Bay, Viera, West Melbourne, Malabar, Satellite Beach, Melbourne Beach, Indialantic, Indian Harbour Beach, and surrounding areas and are in need of information on  Disaster Assistance, please call us at (321) 953-8600 or see http://www.fema.gov/apply for help.

Production Crew visits Atlanta, GA

1/15/2014 (Permalink)

(Left to right) Mike, Jesse, and Robby taking a quick break.

SERVPRO of South Brevard's crew is up in Atlanta, GA for a few weeks helping them recover from burst pipes caused by the recent cold!  They have been extremely busy and are taking a quick break before they finish demo in an affected house!

SERVPRO of South and West Brevard

7/22/2013 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Team!

The SERVPRO of South and West Brevard team coming together for a group picture!