How does SERVPRO® check for water damage in local residences.

5/2/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians use moisture meters to detect hidden moisture within building.

SERVPRO employs a variety of methods to check for water damage in local residences. Here are some common techniques they might use:

1. Visual Inspection: Trained SERVPRO technicians will conduct a thorough visual inspection of the property, looking for signs of water damage such as stains, discoloration, peeling paint, or warped surfaces. They'll examine walls, ceilings, floors, and other susceptible areas to identify any visible indicators of water intrusion.

2. Moisture Meters: SERVPRO technicians use moisture meters to detect hidden moisture within building materials such as drywall, wood, and insulation. These devices measure the moisture content of materials, allowing technicians to pinpoint areas that may be affected by water damage even if they appear dry on the surface.

3. Infrared Cameras: Infrared cameras are another valuable tool used by SERVPRO to identify hidden moisture. These cameras detect temperature differences in building materials, revealing areas of moisture that may not be visible to the naked eye. By capturing thermal images of the property, technicians can quickly locate moisture issues behind walls, under floors, or above ceilings.

4. Thermal Imaging: Similar to infrared cameras, thermal imaging technology helps SERVPRO technicians identify areas of moisture by detecting temperature variations in building materials. This non-invasive method allows technicians to assess the extent of water damage without the need for destructive testing.

5. Air and Surface Sampling: In some cases, SERVPRO may conduct air and surface sampling to test for the presence of mold or other contaminants associated with water damage. Samples collected from affected areas are analyzed in a laboratory to determine the extent of microbial growth and identify any potential health hazards.

Overall, SERVPRO utilizes a combination of visual inspections and advanced detection technologies to thoroughly assess properties for water damage. By identifying and addressing water intrusion issues promptly, they can mitigate damage and restore homes to their preloss condition efficiently.

Bouncing Back: The Likelihood of Rebounding After Devastating Water Loss to Your Business

4/29/2024 (Permalink)

By prioritizing swift response businesses navigate the challenges of water damage and emerge stronger on the other side.

Water damage can wreak havoc on a business, disrupting operations, damaging assets, and threatening livelihoods. Whether it's a burst pipe, flooding, or a plumbing mishap, the aftermath of water damage can seem daunting. However, amidst the chaos, there lies a beacon of hope: the potential for rebounding and rebuilding stronger than before.

Understanding the Impact of Water Loss: The aftermath of water damage can be overwhelming, both emotionally and financially. From structural damage to inventory loss and operational disruptions, the effects can ripple through every aspect of a business. Moreover, the longer the restoration process takes, the greater the potential for revenue loss and customer attrition.

Factors Influencing the Likelihood of Rebounding: While the prospect of rebounding from water damage may seem daunting, several factors can significantly influence the likelihood of a successful recovery:

1. Swift Response: Time is of the essence when it comes to mitigating water damage. A prompt response, coupled with efficient restoration efforts, can minimize the extent of the damage and expedite the recovery process.

2. Restoration Expertise: Partnering with a reputable restoration company with the expertise and resources to handle commercial water damage is crucial. Companies like SERVPRO®, with their specialized training and certifications, can streamline the restoration process and ensure a thorough and effective outcome.

3. Insurance Coverage: Adequate insurance coverage can make a world of difference in navigating the aftermath of water damage. Businesses with comprehensive insurance policies tailored to their specific needs are better positioned to cover the costs of restoration and recover lost revenue.

4. Financial Stability: The financial health of a business plays a significant role in its ability to rebound from water damage. A robust financial foundation, coupled with contingency plans and emergency funds, can provide the necessary cushion to weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

5. Customer Loyalty and Reputation Management: How a business communicates and interacts with its customers during and after a water damage incident can have a lasting impact on its reputation and customer loyalty. Transparent communication, proactive outreach, and swift resolution of any issues can help maintain customer trust and loyalty.

Rebounding After Water Loss: A Success Story: While the road to recovery may seem daunting, countless businesses have successfully rebounded from devastating water damage incidents. By prioritizing swift action, leveraging expert restoration services, and maintaining open communication with stakeholders, these businesses have not only survived but thrived in the aftermath.

Conclusion: While the prospect of rebounding from water damage may seem daunting, it is entirely feasible with the right approach and resources. By prioritizing swift response, leveraging expert restoration services, and maintaining open communication with stakeholders, businesses can navigate the challenges of water damage and emerge stronger on the other side. Remember, adversity breeds resilience, and with the right mindset and support, your business can bounce back from even the most devastating setbacks.

Mold Prevention in Your Basement and Attic: Tips and Tricks

10/23/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® can ensure that your basement has adequate ventilation in your Everett basement during mold remediation.

Basements and attics are common areas in homes where mold can thrive due to their potential for high humidity, limited ventilation, and exposure to moisture. Preventing mold growth in these spaces is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. In this blog post, we'll provide you with practical tips and tricks to help you keep your basement and attic mold-free.

Basement Mold Prevention:

1. Proper Ventilation: Ensure your basement has adequate ventilation. Use exhaust fans or open windows when possible to circulate air and reduce humidity.

2. Dehumidification: Basements are prone to high humidity. Use a dehumidifier to maintain humidity levels below 50%, which discourages mold growth.

3. Address Moisture Issues: Repair any leaks, cracks, or foundation issues promptly. Water intrusion is a major contributor to basement mold problems.

4. Use Waterproofing Paint: Apply waterproofing paint or sealant to basement walls and floors to create a moisture barrier.

5. Reduce Clutter: Clutter can trap moisture and provide hiding spots for mold. Keep your basement well-organized and free of unnecessary items.

6. Regular Cleaning: Periodically clean and dust your basement to remove mold spores and keep the area dry.

Attic Mold Prevention:

1. Insulation and Ventilation: Ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated. Adequate insulation helps prevent condensation on surfaces, while proper ventilation allows moisture to escape.

2. Seal Leaks: Inspect the roof and attic for leaks or gaps that might allow water to enter. Address these issues promptly to prevent moisture buildup.

3. Keep Attic Cool: Ventilation and insulation can help keep your attic temperature closer to that of the outdoors, discouraging condensation and mold growth.

4. Remove Organic Debris: Keep the attic free of organic materials like leaves and dead insects, as they can provide nutrients for mold to grow.

5. Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your attic for signs of mold, leaks, or damage. Catching issues early can prevent larger mold problems.

6. Use Mold-Resistant Materials: When renovating or making repairs in the attic, consider using mold-resistant materials, such as mold-resistant drywall.

General Mold Prevention Tips for Both Spaces:

1. Monitor Humidity: Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels regularly and take action if they exceed 50%.

2. Use Mold-Resistant Products: Consider using mold-resistant paint and building materials when finishing or renovating these spaces.

3. Proper Storage: Elevate stored items off the floor in both the basement and attic to prevent moisture contact.

4. Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect these spaces for signs of water damage, leaks, or mold growth, especially after heavy rains or significant weather events.

5. Landscaping: Ensure the landscaping around your home encourages water to flow away from the foundation to reduce basement moisture.

By implementing these tips and tricks, you can significantly reduce the risk of mold growth in your basement and attic, creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family.

When is Demo neccessary for a water damage loss?

8/23/2023 (Permalink)

When is Demolition necessary for water damage losses?

SERVPRO specializes in disaster recovery and restoration, including water damage restoration. "Demo" in this context refers to demolition or the removal of damaged materials as part of the water damage restoration process. Demo is necessary for a water loss in various situations to effectively mitigate damage and restore the affected property. Here are some common scenarios where demo might be necessary:

1. Severe Water Damage: In cases of extensive water intrusion, such as flooding or burst pipes, materials like drywall, insulation, and flooring can become saturated and damaged beyond repair. Demo may be required to remove these materials to allow for proper drying and prevent mold growth.

2. Structural Integrity Concerns: Water can weaken the structural integrity of building materials. If structural components like beams, columns, or load-bearing walls have been compromised by water damage, they might need to be assessed and potentially replaced after demo.

3. Mold Growth: If water damage is not addressed promptly, it can lead to mold growth. Mold can penetrate porous materials like drywall and insulation. In cases of significant mold infestation, affected materials might need to be removed through demo to eliminate the source of contamination.

4. Contaminated Water: If the water that caused the damage is contaminated, such as sewage backup or water containing hazardous substances, demo might be necessary to remove and dispose of affected materials safely to prevent health risks.

5. Preventing Secondary Damage: Water can wick up walls, seep into subfloors, and travel to hidden areas. If moisture is trapped within wall cavities or under flooring, it can lead to hidden mold growth and long-term damage. Demo can be necessary to access these areas for proper drying and restoration.

6. Odor Removal: Water damage can lead to persistent musty odors, especially if moisture is trapped in materials. Removing and replacing affected materials through demo can help eliminate these odors.

7. Insurance Requirements: Some insurance policies might require the removal of damaged materials as part of the restoration process. Demo can also provide clearer evidence of the extent of damage for insurance claims.

8. Aesthetic Considerations: Even if materials are salvageable, some property owners might choose to undergo demo to upgrade or renovate affected areas after water damage, especially if they were already planning renovations.

It's important to note that not all instances of water damage will require extensive demo. Professional assessment is crucial to determine the appropriate course of action. Trained water damage restoration specialists, like those from SERVPRO, can evaluate the extent of the damage, the potential for restoration, and the need for demolition to ensure that the restoration process is effective and efficient.

Preventative Maintenance Services that reduce the threat of fires.

6/22/2023 (Permalink)

Preventative maintenance plays a crucial role in reducing the threat of fires in residential and commercial settings.

Preventative maintenance plays a crucial role in reducing the threat of fires in residential and commercial settings. Here are some common preventative maintenance services that can help minimize the risk of fires:

1. Electrical System Inspections: Regular inspections of electrical systems by qualified professionals can identify potential hazards such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or outdated electrical components. This helps to prevent electrical malfunctions that can lead to fires.

2. HVAC System Maintenance: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems should be inspected and maintained regularly. This includes cleaning or replacing filters, ensuring proper ventilation, and addressing any issues with electrical connections or heating elements to minimize the risk of fire caused by HVAC system malfunctions.

3. Fire Sprinkler System Maintenance: Fire sprinkler systems are a critical component of fire safety. Regular inspections and maintenance of sprinkler systems ensure that they are in proper working order, with no clogs, leaks, or damaged parts that could hinder their effectiveness during a fire.

4. Fire Extinguisher Inspections and Refills: Fire extinguishers should be inspected periodically to ensure they are in proper working condition. This includes checking pressure levels, inspecting for damage or corrosion, and refilling or replacing extinguishers as needed.

5. Kitchen Exhaust System Cleaning: Grease buildup in commercial kitchen exhaust systems can pose a significant fire hazard. Regular cleaning and maintenance of kitchen hoods, ducts, and filters help prevent the accumulation of flammable substances and reduce the risk of fire.

6. Proper Storage and Handling of Combustible Materials: Establishing and enforcing proper storage protocols for flammable materials, chemicals, and hazardous substances can significantly reduce the risk of fires. This includes storing such materials in appropriate containers, away from ignition sources, and in designated storage areas with proper ventilation.

7. Smoke Alarm and Fire Alarm Maintenance: Smoke alarms and fire alarm systems should be tested regularly to ensure they are functional and have working batteries. This ensures early detection of fires and timely evacuation.

8. Employee Training and Fire Safety Education: Conducting regular fire safety training for employees helps raise awareness about fire prevention measures, evacuation procedures, and the proper use of fire safety equipment. Well-informed employees can play a vital role in preventing fires and responding appropriately in emergency situations.

It's important to consult with fire safety professionals and follow local regulations and guidelines to determine the specific preventative maintenance services required for your particular setting.

Typical Restoration needs for the month of May

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Typical Restoration needs for the month of May

SERVPRO offers a range of restoration services, including those that are specifically tailored to the month of May. May is a month that often brings severe weather events such as tornadoes, thunderstorms, and flooding, which can cause significant damage to homes and businesses.

SERVPRO's May restoration services may include:

1. Storm damage restoration: If your property has been damaged by severe weather, SERVPRO can help. They have the expertise and equipment to restore your property to its pre-damage condition quickly and efficiently.

2. Water damage restoration: Spring showers can sometimes result in flooding, which can cause water damage to your property. SERVPRO's water damage restoration services can help extract standing water, dry out the affected areas, and prevent mold growth.

3. Mold remediation: Moisture from spring rains can create the perfect conditions for mold growth. SERVPRO can provide mold remediation services to ensure that any mold present in your property is safely removed and the affected areas are properly cleaned and sanitized.

4. Fire damage restoration: May is also National Electrical Safety Month, and faulty electrical wiring can cause fires. SERVPRO's fire damage restoration services can help with the cleanup and restoration of your property after a fire.

SERVPRO's May restoration services can help you recover from damage caused by severe weather and other disasters. They are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and provide you with the support you need to get back to normal as soon as possible.

Places where Fires can occur.

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

Commons place for fire to occur.

SERVPRO of Medford/Everett is a company that specializes in fire damage restoration and cleaning services. If you have fire damage and you want to hire SERVPRO to clean up the damage, you can contact them directly. 

Fires can occur in a variety of places, but some common places where fires may occur include:

1. Homes: Cooking accidents, electrical malfunctions, and smoking-related incidents are among the most common causes of fires in homes.

2. Industrial facilities: Manufacturing plants, factories, and other industrial facilities often involve the use of heavy machinery, flammable chemicals, and other hazardous materials, making them more susceptible to fires.

3. Office buildings: Electrical equipment, heating and cooling systems, and flammable materials like paper and chemicals can all contribute to the risk of fire in office buildings.

4. Vehicles: Cars, trucks, and other vehicles can catch fire due to problems with the engine, electrical system, or fuel lines.

5. Forests and wilderness areas: Wildfires can be caused by lightning, campfires, cigarettes, and other human activities, as well as natural events like droughts and high winds.

6. Public spaces: Public buildings such as schools, libraries, and hospitals may also be at risk of fires due to heating systems, electrical malfunctions, and other factors.

It's important to take precautions and practice fire safety measures in all of these locations to help prevent fires from occurring and to minimize their impact if they do occur.

SERVPRO's Cleanup Services in Medford

3/29/2023 (Permalink)

A neglected dwelling.

SERVPRO is a company that provides a wide range of restoration and cleanup services for both residential and commercial properties. Their services cover various types of damage caused by water, fire, mold, and other disasters. When it comes to cleanup, SERVPRO's trained technicians use specialized equipment and techniques to thoroughly clean and sanitize affected areas, ensuring that they are safe for occupancy.

Here are some of the cleanup services that SERVPRO provides:

1. Water Damage Cleanup: When a property suffers water damage, whether from a burst pipe or flooding, SERVPRO technicians will extract the water, dry out the affected area, and clean and sanitize all affected surfaces to prevent mold growth and other potential hazards.

2. Fire Damage Cleanup: In the event of a fire, SERVPRO will remove debris, clean up soot and smoke damage, and deodorize the affected area to eliminate any lingering smoke odor.

3. Mold Remediation: If mold is present in a property, SERVPRO will use specialized equipment to contain the affected area, remove the mold, and clean and sanitize all affected surfaces to prevent further growth.

4. Biohazard Cleanup: SERVPRO provides cleanup services for biohazardous materials, such as blood and bodily fluids, and other dangerous substances.

5. Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning: SERVPRO uses specialized equipment to thoroughly clean and sanitize carpets and upholstery, removing dirt, allergens, and other contaminants.

SERVPRO's cleanup services are designed to restore properties to their pre-damage condition and ensure that they are safe for occupancy. With their experienced technicians and specialized equipment, SERVPRO can handle any cleanup job, big or small.

Don’t Let Fire Damage Overtake Your Medford Property

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

The expert fire restores from SERVPRO boast IICRC certifications to ensure Medford homes appear "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Handles Fire Damage with Precision in Medford

Fire incidents are unique to each property due to the materials burned, accelerants, and many other factors. When it comes to commercial fire mitigation or housefire cleanup, having a trained team to handle it is better than DIY could ever achieve. Here at SERVPRO, we have IICRC-certified fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) to ensure your project goes smoothly from start to finish. Whether you have a small retail store fire or the second story of your residence experiences significant fire damage, we can help 24 hours a day. We always make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why call SERVPRO for fire damage in Medford? We have all the equipment and staffing to scale our capabilities to meet the needs of single-family homes to extensive commercial facilities. You can look to us to adjust our restoration methods accordingly to ensure the best results to achieve our goals quickly, saving you time and mone

What does IICRC-certified mean?

SERVPRO often talks about certifications because we are proud of all our professional, knowledgeable, and educated restoration technicians. We sometimes get asked what IICRC certification is and what it means to us.

• IICRC is an acronym for Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification
• The mission of the IICRC is to ‘promote an international standard of care that establishes and maintains the health, safety, and welfare of the built environment.’ (ref. IICRC.org)
• Each technician undergoes IICRC course training to stay abreast of the latest technologies and methodologies of cleaning.
• Technicians must take part in the full course, take the written exam, and document skills in specific categories to receive certification.

This means to SERVPRO that we have the cream of the crop in terms of technicians to handle fire, water, mold, and unique restoration/reconstruction projects.

How our Fire Damage Restoration Process Works

Once the first responders finish putting out the fire and we get the green light to enter your property, we begin the inspection and assessment. Your property likely suffered from charring, smoke, and water damage from water and chemicals used to fight the fire. The steps we take for typical fire calls include:

• Emergency contact with our customer care team to gather information about the fire. This allows us to round up the correct number of personnel and the equipment we will need to handle the restoration.
• The assessment and inspection include looking at the extent of the damage, including charring, soot, and smoke.
• Board-up and roof tarping get done to protect your interior while restoration occurs.
• If there is standing water or moisture present, we begin extractions and drying with the help of air movers and dehumidification equipment.
• Walls, ceilings, and other surfaces undergo soot and smoke residue removal with specialized equipment and techniques.
• All restorable items get cleaned; we sanitize all surfaces throughout your structure and deodorization to eliminate contaminants and foul odors.
• The final step is restoration and reconstruction performed by trusted area contractors and vendors to replace drywall, install new carpet, and handle all other necessary repairs to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Did you know? SERVPRO works with your insurance because we understand how difficult it is to deal with emotions and process everything after a fire event. We can help with your documentation and manage paperwork to ensure your process goes as smoothly as possible.

You can reach SERVPRO of Medford/Everett by calling (781) 395-4444 or requesting help online. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster – available 24 hours a day for all emergency fire damage and water restorations.

Water Removal and Drying to Mitigate Damage in Medford

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Our IICRC-trained SERVPRO technicians provide excellent water damage mitigation for our Medford neighbors.

SERVPRO Water Damage Assistance Gets Medford Residents' Results

Water damage events are distressing, whether your dishwasher leaked, water went under the cabinetry, or you have a flood in your basement or first floor. This frustration multiplies if you have a hidden water leak decaying materials over time. The good news is that hiring skilled water restoration technicians (WRT) can get you the safe, efficient results you need to bring your property back to a pre-water emergency condition. SERVPRO knows that water damage impacts more than surfaces and contents. We know how to get in, target all moisture-laden areas, and stop mold, mildew growth, and secondary damage in their tracks. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

When hiring someone to help with water damage in Medford, you need 24-hour availability. SERVPRO is here 24 hours a day, seven days a week – including weekends and holidays! We have teams standing by to deploy as needed to assist home and business owners with water removal services, damage repair, and thorough disinfection.

• Our Green Fleet comes stocked with extractors, pumps, structural drying equipment, and EPA-registered cleaning agents.
• We work to restore versus replace to help save you time and money on your overall restoration project.
• All your paperwork is carefully filled out about your water recovery project, so you have the correct documentation for your insurance claim.
• Each of our projects gets the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned seal of approval before signing off.

We have the Equipment and Tools for Water Restorations

Our team utilizes a range of professional water mitigation and restoration tools. We strategically place all our equipment in water-affected areas to help maximize drying while all standing water gets removed. Some of the techniques and tools that we may use during your residential or commercial project include:

• Water extraction and pumping tools to pull up pooled water
• Open windows (weather permitting) to increase natural air circulation 
• Industrial fans and air moving devices
• Refrigerant and desiccant dehumidifiers

What if it Looks Like I have Old Water Damage?

Older water damage presents differently than newer ones. There are some instances where damage may look older. But is it just a surface indicator that something deeper and more devastating could happen beneath your building materials? Signs to look for that tell you if you are dealing with older or newer damage include:

• Decay developing around the damaged area indicates that the issue has been there for quite some time.
• There may be visible rings around spots and stains on walls or ceilings. The damage is usually new if you see a spot without any rings. If there are several rings in different shades, it is an indication that the area has been soaked and re-soaked many times.

Response Times Matter – We are Available 24/7

When you make initial contact with our customer care center, you will initiate the mobilization of a team of our IICRC-certified technicians at your door in four hours or less. We understand water damage events are stressful, so our caring staff guides you through the process, asking questions so that we can fill our Green Fleet with all the right equipment for the job. Some of the questions we ask to help facilitate the formation of your water restoration project include:

• Name, contact information, and the address of your home or business requiring water restoration
• If applicable, the name of your insurance provider
• Details on the damage or flooding when it occurred
• Information telling us what brought on the water intrusion event
• Whether or not you have working electricity

Let SERVPRO of Medford/Everett handle all your water restoration needs! Call us at (781) 395-4444 or request help online. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”