Why SERVPRO? Unveiling the Power of Our Helping Crews

2/7/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Oklahoma City, Midtown & Norman clean up Commercial Losses

When it comes to restoration services, SERVPRO's crews are a driving force that sets us apart. Here's why our teams make all the difference:

• Expertly Trained Professionals: Our helping crews are comprised of expertly trained professionals with the knowledge and skills to handle diverse restoration challenges. Rigorous training ensures they are equipped to tackle any situation with confidence.
• Compassion in Action: Dealing with the aftermath of a disaster is emotionally challenging. SERVPRO's helping crews approach every project with empathy and compassion, understanding the stress and anxiety that can accompany such situations.
• Swift and Responsive: Time is of the essence in restoration. Our crews are known for their swift and responsive actions, ensuring that they are on-site promptly to mitigate further damage and start the restoration process as quickly as possible.
• Collaborative Approach: Restoration often involves multiple steps and disciplines. Our helping crews operate seamlessly, collaborating across different areas of expertise to deliver a comprehensive and efficient restoration process.
• Clear Communication: We understand the importance of keeping our clients informed. Our helping crews maintain clear and transparent communication throughout the restoration journey, updating clients on progress and addressing any concerns promptly.
• Attention to Detail: Restoration is not just about fixing visible damage but addressing hidden issues. Our crews pay meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the restoration process is thoroughly examined and addressed.
• Adaptability: Every restoration project is unique. Our helping crews showcase adaptability, customizing their approach to meet the specific needs and challenges of each situation. This flexibility ensures effective solutions tailored to the property and circumstances.
• Customer-Centric Focus: At SERVPRO, our helping crews prioritize customer satisfaction. Going above and beyond to exceed expectations, they aim not only to restore properties but also to restore peace of mind for our clients.

In the world of restoration services, SERVPRO's crews shine as the unsung heroes, embodying expertise, compassion, and a commitment to excellence. Choosing SERVPRO means choosing a team dedicated to restoring not just buildings but the lives and well-being of our valued clients.

What Is PPE and Why Is It Important?

2/16/2023 (Permalink)

PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment. It refers to any equipment that you wear or use to protect yourself from heat, chemicals, dust, gases, or other hazards in the workplace. PPE can include gloves, goggles, face masks, and more.

What is PPE?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is any clothing or accessory worn for protection against a hazard. PPE can be used in many different environments and contexts, including the workplace, home, gardening, and garage.

PPE is a necessity for all workers. It's an absolute must to wear PPE if you're working in or around hazardous materials or environments. You don't want to risk exposure to various hazards, so it's important to have proper protection at all times.

How is it used?

PPE is used for a variety of purposes. It can help protect the wearer from hazards, injuries, illness, and infection.

For example, if you work in construction and need to do demolition on an old building, you might wear a hard hat to protect your head from falling debris or getting hit by heavy objects as they fall. If you're operating heavy machinery at a construction site that could cause injury to yourself or others around you if it weren't handled properly, PPE such as goggles and earplugs would be critical to keeping everyone safe.

Types of PPE

PPE stands for personal protective equipment, but it's actually a broad term that covers many types of equipment. The most common types of PPE include:

• Head protection (hard hats)
• Eye and face protection (safety glasses or goggles)
• Respiratory protection (respirators)
• Hand & Skin protection (gloves)

Should PPE be used in a normal household?

If you’re working in a lab or industrial setting, then the answer is obviously yes. But if you have a home or office with only one employee, then the answer isn't so clear.

PPE can be used in a normal household, but you don't have to have the same set of rules as someone working in a commercial setting. For instance, while it's important for safety and health to wear gloves when handling something hazardous or toxic, you don't need to worry about wearing gloves when making dinner at home.

If you're a homeowner and have any kind of yard work or landscaping projects that involve anything from grass clippings to weed killer, then you need your own personal protective gear in order to protect yourself.

The importance of PPE cannot be overstated.

Personal protective equipment is an essential part of any workplace. It not only protects you but also your coworkers and equipment. This is why it's important to understand the risks associated with not wearing PPE at work, and what you can do to keep yourself and others safe while on the job.

Here are some reasons why PPE is so important:

• Personal protective equipment helps protect workers from workplace hazards such as chemicals, heavy machinery, and other potential dangers in the workplace environment. If employers fail to provide adequate protection for their employees through proper PPE use during work activities, they may face legal liability if employees sustain injuries as a result of exposure to these hazards.
• Employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) free of charge when employees need it for most job-related reasons.

PPE is essential in any workplace. It protects workers from various hazards and can be beneficial to those around them as well. However, it’s important to make sure that your employees know how to use PPE properly before they start work on any project or task.

Water Damage Clean-Up After a Leak

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

Water leaks can happen anywhere, and they're rarely planned. You might run into a plumbing problem in the middle of the night or while you're at work. If these leaks aren't taken care of quickly, they can cause serious damage to your property and belongings. The longer you wait to get help with water damage cleanup after a leak, however, the harder it will be to save your home from mold growth and its associated issues. 

Water Damage Clean-Up After a Leak

If you've ever had a leak, you know how quickly water damage can occur. It is important to call for help immediately if there is a leak. Do not try and fix the problem yourself unless you have training in doing so, because the situation may become more severe and dangerous if not handled correctly by professionals.

If you do need professional services for water damage clean-up after a leak or burst pipe in your home, give us a call! We'll get to work quickly with an experienced team member who will assess the extent of the damage and give you an estimate as soon as possible.

Our customers choose us because our services include: 

• Water removal (dry out wet areas)
• Structural repairs (fix holes in drywall)
• Dehumidification (remove humidity from damp materials)

For other leaks and water damage situations, try to contain the damage as much as possible before calling for help. It's usually best to let professionals handle cleanup jobs like this one — they'll know how to avoid causing further damage while they work on drying out your property and removing any mold growth that may have occurred due to prolonged exposure of your belongings being wet for so long.

Clean-Up Tips

Don't attempt to handle water damage on your own. Water damage can pose serious risks, and attempting to clean up a large area of water is dangerous for you and your family. It's best to call in professionals for help with this project. 

Clean the water up as much as possible. If there's standing water in carpets or on floors, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove it. Make sure you keep it away from electrical outlets and other sources of heat; don't turn on any appliances while you're cleaning!

You'll need the right equipment as well as trained workers if you're going to tackle a job like this by yourself. Don't use ordinary cleaning products or tools; they won't be able to remove all traces of mold from your home's structure, which could lead to serious issues later down the road. You'll also need protective gear like gloves and breathing masks so that no one gets sick from exposure.

When should you call a professional?

If the walls are wet, but not soaked and the flooring isn't damaged, you can probably handle cleanup on your own.

However, if the water has caused damage to the walls or flooring in any way, you will need to call a professional to take care of it. A professional company will use specialized equipment that can extract even tiny amounts of moisture from between wall studs so that mold doesn't grow in those areas.

In the end, no matter how long you wait to clean up after a water leak, it’s important to remember that the sooner you start, the better. The longer you wait, the more difficult and expensive it will be. You can always count on SERVPRO of Downtown Oklahoma City, Midtown to help with all your water damage cleanup and restoration needs!

Protecting Your Commercial Building From Water Damage

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

If a pipe break occurs in your building you should contact a water remediation company such as SERVPRO.

Use The Following Three Methods

When leaks and pipe breaks occur, commercial property owners in Valley Brook, OK, face several serious concerns. Water saturation in walls and flooring leads to mold and mildew. Water in home appliances ruins the devices, leading to expensive repairs and replacements. The rooms develop an unpleasant, stale odor. These hazards shut down the impacted area. It could even be half operations. To safeguard the facility and maintain workflow, proprietors should make every effort to prevent water damage. The following are three effective methods to use.

1. Install Sensors

Early detection of pipe cleanup permits owners to catch water exposure before it becomes a massive flood. Have specialists install them near any significant water source such as washing machines or water heaters. If the area becomes damp, an alarm goes off.

2. Keep an Eye on Machines

Your office space probably contains a staff room stocked with a refrigerator, sink, and dishwasher. While convenient for employees, this location should be a watch zone for owners. Monthly, look around to ensure the buildup of water in home appliances isn't happening. Look behind the machinery. Open up the cabinet doors. It's easy for a hose to become loose or develop a hole, leading to lingering puddles that ruin the foundation, cabinets, and drywall.

3. Analyze Your Water Bill

Complications may develop in places that are not visible, such as within walls or the irrigation line. To locate this before a broken pipe occurs, owners should scrutinize their monthly water bill. When discrepancies appear, contact a water remediation company such as SERVPRO. The professionals can perform leak detection tests, identifying the primary source, fix it and tackle any secondary damage.

When commercial owners see water in home appliances, immediate attention should be given to clean up the mess. Work with one company to handle the job, securing the area and sanitizing it quickly and efficiently. Swift action allows for the doors to reopen and projects to resume.

5 Reasons To Buy a SERVPRO Franchise

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

Whatever occurs, we are prepared and ready. We can address any type of damage, including fire, water, mold, storms, and other natural disasters.

The Top 5 Reasons to Purchase a SERVPRO Franchise

Owning a SERVPRO franchise in Oklahoma City, OK, has many benefits. SERVPRO was named one of the top franchises to own by Entrepreneur Magazine's 2022 Franchise 500. The company has a strong brand name and provides excellent training and support for franchisees. SERVPRO stays ahead of the competition and even implemented a new cleaning program during the covid-19 pandemic. Here are five reasons to consider owning a franchise.

1. Certified Cleaning Program
During the covid-19 pandemic, many people felt vulnerable leaving their homes and going to public spaces. SERVPRO launched their new SERVPRO Cleaned program when they saw that business owners needed help getting workers and customers back in the doors. SERVPRO designed a cleaning program based on EPA and CDC guidelines for controlling viral pathogens.

2. In-House Financing
Many people who are looking to purchase a franchise do not have the cash to pay in full upfront. SERVPRO recognizes this and works with future franchise owners to help them secure financing through in-house programs.

3. Preferred Vendor Status
Many insurance companies in Oklahoma City, OK, already view each locally owned SERVPRO franchise as a preferred vendor. This relationship can help you to find and retain more customers.

4. Variety of Services
SERVPRO is a one-stop shop for disaster recovery and restoration services. Professional remediation services include damage from fire, smoke, mold, soot, floods, and general water damage. This variety of services opens up a huge potential customer base. Being able to have everything handled by a single company is a huge convenience and relief for your future clients too.

5. Ongoing Training
The corporate office works hard to train new franchisees while also providing support to existing franchisees. This ongoing support helps to make each SERVPRO owner a restoration expert in their respective community.

There are many reasons to own a SERVPRO franchise. Helping others in the community, learning valuable skills, and being trained in how to do it all are just a few of the reasons.

A 24 Hour Remediation Response Can Save Your Business After a Disaster

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is an emergency response team, which is always open and ready to help you, call us!

After A Disaster, A 24-hour Remediation Response Can Save Your Business.

Disasters aren't usually planned. However, your business can plan for the aftermath. Water damage from disasters quickly invades buildings, making it crucial to receive a 24 hour emergency response. SERVPRO is an emergency response team in Oklahoma City, OK that is always open. A fast response is of utmost importance when contacting remediation experts.

What Can Be Damaged in Any Size Disaster

Your commercial business just underwent a fire or flood within the last 24 hour period. Even if the event wasn't large or didn't cause any visible damage, it's still best to bring a remediation team on site as soon as possible. Water damage is deceptively invasive, seeping into all of your important documents, products, and building structure. The longer you wait, the more irreversible destruction will occur, including, but not limited to:

• Stains on walls, floors, carpets, furniture, and upholstery
  
• Damage to important documents, photographs, or other paper goods
  
• Compromised drywall integrity
  
• Discoloration of any metal surfaces
• Musty smells emanating from your commercial space

All of the aforementioned happens within a day, and all of these unsightly issues are bad for business and your pocketbook. This doesn't even include the damage that can occur after the 48 hour mark!

Have a Plan for the Aftermath

In order to have a fast response, you need to have a reputable company in mind to come in and clean up. This company also needs to be a preferred vendor with your insurance company. Choosing a preferred emergency response team like SERVPRO ensures that you will be covered in the event you need disaster clean up. The worst thing you can do is hire a restoration team only to find out later that you will be paying out of pocket.

SERVPRO is not only preferred by most insurance agencies, but they operate on a 24 hour cycle, any day of the year. They respond to requests with a call within one hour, are on site in four hours, and provide a verbal briefing within eight hours. This fast response time can mitigate any long-term damages that would occur if you hadn't planned ahead to save your business.

The SERVPRO Claim Inventory System

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience a loss in your home or business, trust SERVPRO with the restoration. We are equipped and ready for whatever happens.

SERVPRO's Inventory Claim System

As a home insurance agent in Valley Brook, OK, claims tracking is not always the easiest of tasks to accomplish in a successful way. With so much damage information and financial data to keep track of, it can be difficult to always keep abreast of a claim and not miss any important details. Fortunately, the SERVPRO claim inventory system can help you keep track of your next insurance claim with more ease and greater detail than ever before.

Claim Inventory Services

This residential damage company is proud to offer the Claim Information Center (CIC) to insurance agents working on a residential damage claim. The internal system updates claims information in real time as the estimate is updated. The Corporate database, ReportER, then migrates the information to the user-friendly Management Dashboard for agent or adjuster review.

The CIC database allows you, the agent or adjuster, to view the following claim-related information online, quickly and painlessly:

• Insurance claim type ordered by either nation, region, state or county
  
• Review of the complete individual file whenever needed
  
• Cause of Loss ordered by either nation, region, state or county
  
• Cost of Job File ordered by either nation, region, state or county
  
• Response Times ordered by either nation, region, state or county

You can also use the CIC system to compare the insurance company’s claims to national or regional claim results so you can see how your agency is performing compared to other leaders in the home insurance industry. You will quickly see what a difference SERVPRO can make for you, your insurance clients and your agency.

Here to Help

SERVPRO understands the important needs of both insurers and homeowners during the insurance claim process. That is why they offer resources that can help both after a water-, fire- or mold-related disaster. Choose them as your damage assessor for your next claim and see why they are a “Preferred Vendor” for most insurance agencies.

How To Clean Category 1 Water Damage

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

How To Repair Water Damage In Category 1

Water in the pipes in your commercial building in Oklahoma City, OK, is generally considered safe for drinking, but it can still cause damage if it floods a room. Clean water is uncontaminated, which means that little to no sanitation is required during the cleanup process. Because of this, the process is probably a little faster than when you have sewer damage or flooding from a storm.

Where Does Category 1 Water Come From?

Any water leak that comes directly from a pipe is Category 1 water. This includes water from the following sources:

• Supply line
  
• Broken faucet
  
• Busted pipe

There is a chance that water that starts out clean can become contaminated if it stands for too long or seeps through floor tiles and insulation to the floor below the leak. As long as the problem is caught and handled early, however, cleanup can be simple.

What Does the Cleanup Process Entail?

If clean water floods a room, the first step water mitigation experts are going to take is to pump the excess water out of the room. After all surfaces are dried, technicians may have to replace damaged flooring or walls, depending on how waterlogged they are. It is important to do this within 24-48 hours of discovering the broken pipe so that secondary damage doesn’t occur. The remediation process gets more complicated if mold starts to grow. It not only prolongs the restoration of the space but also may cost more out of pocket if insurance doesn’t cover the removal of the mold growth. Timely cleanup is important.

Flooding caused by clean water is not something any building owner would wish for, but as mitigation processes go, it’s one of the faster problems to resolve. If you report the problem and hire certified experts who are trained to handle cleanup, your building can be restored in no time.

Three Dryer Fire Prevention Tips

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Three Tips For Avoiding Dryer Fires

One of the lesser known causes for fire damage is a lint fire. If you live in Smith Village, OK, then you may have heard some stories about a dryer fire in your area. Here are a few easy steps you can do to help prevent this type of fire in your home.

1. Clean Out Your Dryer Regularly

One of the most preventable types of dryer fire come from a failure to clean it. In fact statistics this number is somewhere around 34 percent. Failing to clean the dryer can lead to a buildup of materials inside the trap which can then catch fire during the regular drying process. Remember to clean the back of the dryer and the exhaust as well.

2. Be Aware of What You Put in Your Dryer

One of the main ways a lint fire can start is when the dryers overheats. Part of this can be due to improper materials being placed inside the dryer, or the dryer being overloaded. Do not put flammable substances, such as items covered in grease, in the dryer. Items with manufacturer's instructions to hang dry or dry away from heat can also cause issues. Overloading the dryer can lead to it taking more energy than recommended to dry items. This can also lead to a fire.

3. Properly Maintain the Dryer

Improper maintenance or using a dryer with damaged elements such as a loose lint filter, can also lead to a dryer fire. If a fire does occur then a professional service may be able to help with cleanup and restoration.

If you’re worried about a lint fire in your home then these tips may be able to help. Cleaning out your dryer regularly can help prevent a buildup of lint, while making sure your dryer is properly maintained can prevent a fire due to damaged parts. Also remember to be aware of what materials you are putting in your dryer, and not to overload it.

How To Stop Mold From Coming Back

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

Moisture in a home can cause mold to grow and spread very rapidly

If you have a patch of black mold that keeps growing back after you scrub it off, you may be wondering what you’re doing wrong. It can be even more frustrating if you’ve hired someone to handle the mold cleanup for you and it still grows back. The fact is, if you have a reoccurring mold problem, you have a problem with too much moisture in the affected area. An experienced mold remediation expert in Smith Village, OK, should be able to help you pinpoint the source of your moisture problem so that you can put an end to it.

Why and Where Mold Thrives

Mold releases spores, which are like tiny seeds that get carried from place to place by the wind. Mold spores can be found everywhere, outside and inside, so it’s impossible to completely remove all mold from your home. However, if spores don’t find the right growing conditions, they never grow into a visible mold colony. The key to keeping your home free from black mold is to make sure you don’t create the ideal conditions for it to grow.

Because spores are everywhere, mold only needs moisture and nutrition to grow. Most mold species can get nutrition from almost anything, including the paper in your drywall and the dust in the corners of your home. That means any area that is consistently damp is likely to grow mold. The most common sources of chronic moisture problems are the following.

• Poor ventilation
  
• Condensation
  
• Leaking roofs and windows
  
• Broken supply lines
  
• Leaking water pipes
  
• Get Rid of Mold Forever
  
  

When you hire a mold expert in Smith Village, OK, they will do more than remove black mold from your home. They’ll also help you make sure it doesn’t return. With the use of hydrometers and infrared light, they can locate the hidden sources of moisture responsible for your mold problem. They also know how to open up walls to get at leaking pipes without doing unnecessary damage. Once you repair, replace or remove the source of dampness in your home, the mold won’t return.

The Fundamentals of Black Mold

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Black mold spreads really quickly in ideal conditions.

Black mold, a potential threat to your home’s structure, can be visible or out of sight. Stachybotrys chartarum, as it is also known, can be remedied if you know what to look for and where to look. By understanding the fundamentals of this mold, you can protect your Oklahoma City home from damage.

Where Mold Grows

Mold needs a location that provides it with ample food and moisture. Wood, paper, cardboard, and drywall are materials where it thrives, but it can make its home anywhere with its desired conditions. There are several typical household locations for mold:

• Bathrooms
• Sinks
• Kitchens
• Basements
• Crawl spaces

As you can tell, it is most likely to be found in damp and warm places. During times of high humidity or after flooding, it’s worthwhile to look for any growth in these high-risk locations.

Identifying the Mold

Despite its name, black mold maybe a dark green color early in its life. Immature mold also is so small that it looks like some dirt on a wall or floor. If left to mature, it turns into the distinguishing black color.

While the fungus may be noticeable around the home, it could also be hidden away inside of walls. Stachybotrys chartarum often gives off a musty smell that can be used as an alert that it is somewhere in the room. This unseen mold threatens your home’s framework while it deteriorates drywall, so it should not be ignored because it’s out of sight.

Stopping the Mold

If you locate or suspect a fungus, mold cleanup services can fully treat the problem. Mold can be indicative of a water problem that needs the professional tools of a water and mold damage specialist. Mold remediation stops further growth by denying its sources of life.

Black mold spreads really quickly in ideal conditions. By treating it early enough, your home is protected from a localized problem becoming a household nuisance. Understanding the fundamentals of this mold and others, you know when you need to act.

4 Principles for Keeping Mold Out of Your Home

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Severe mold damage in Valley Brook, OK

Keep Mold Out Of Your Home

While mold is ubiquitous in the natural environment and there are literally hundreds of thousands of mold types in the world, you can exert some control over this menace. Successful mold prevention hinges on a few important actions. By following these principles in your home in Valley Brook, OK, you stand a good chance of defeating mold.

1. Address Water Problems. Most cases of residential mold spring from a water leak. This could be from a roof leak, a leaky pipe, or a flood. This allows the low quantities of mold present in your home to grow out of control and form into unsightly and damaging colonies. By drying out areas of water damage, you can often stop the growth of mold.

2. Watch Out for High Humidity. Mold loves warm damp places. It can sometimes grow in areas even without a water leak if high humidity is present, This could include shower rooms or enclosed areas with hot tubs. For mold prevention, relative humidity should be kept below 60%, with 30% to 50% considered ideal.

3. Be Vigilant. It's a good idea to occasionally lookout for mold growth in the most likely places: attics, basements, bathrooms and crawl spaces. Look for unsightly blotches and smell for musty odors. These are strong indications of a mold problem.

4. Contact Professionals. If you suspect mold has colonized your home, call in a certified mold remediation franchise. Highly-trained technicians can verify if you have a mold problem. If so, they can take the appropriate actions to remove mold from your home. They will fix any moisture problems, contain the spread, remove the mold, clean and sanitize the home and restore any damages. A SERVPRO franchise is always Here to Help.
Mold prevention is often effective in keeping your home free of this common menace. Mold remediation is necessary if you discover mold colonies forming in your home.

Testing Can Find Hidden Mold

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage led to mold growth in this Smith Village, OK building

Testing Can Find Hidden Mold

Ensuring buildings in Smith Village, OK, remain a pleasant environment is a priority for property owners and managers. Anytime a water issue pops up, it may lead to other issues that aren't always visible. If a musty odor starts rearing its ugly head but no signs of mold are found, it might be time to call an indoor environmental specialist for help.

Common Hiding Spots
Mold prefers damp locations with a food source, which could be a plethora of organic materials found in a building’s structure. That often means it will flourish in areas that aren’t frequently trafficked or behind walls. If you have any recent water damage or a persistent leak, there is a good chance that mold growth is happening behind the scenes. If the building has had previous mold or water issues that were not properly taken care of by a mold remediation and restoration specialist, the problem may have been festering for a long time. The top places to look for mold include:

• Plumping pipes and fixtures
• Air ducts
• Basements, crawlspaces and attics
• Behind furniture and appliances
• Ceilings and floors
• Insulation

Peace of Mind
If your inspection doesn’t produce any visible results, an indoor environmental specialist can perform a mold test to locate the problem area, as well as the source of the issue. They are trained to use moisture meters and particle counters to detect hidden issues and will conduct air, surface and bulk testing. Once located, they will take samples to determine the type of mold and the severity of the issue. After determining the extent of the problem, a cleanup and remediation plan can be developed to get rid of the problem once and for all.
Anytime there is visible mold, testing isn’t necessary. When the source of the problem can’t be found, contact an indoor environmental specialist to help you get your property back on track.

How To Locate and Identify Black Mold

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Black mold on wall

How To Locate And Identify Mold

Black mold is a fungus that is unwelcome in anyone’s home in Valley Brook, OK. It can start spreading on walls within a day or two and can even cover several square feet in less than a week. It is important to know where to look for it and how to identify it if you think you have a mold problem.
How to locate and identify mold:

1. Moisture. Excess moisture is a common cause of black mold. Look in areas where water may collect and be sure to keep them free from moisture buildup. Window condensation and leaking pipes are regular culprits. If you have had any recent flooding in your home, check to make sure that the area has been properly disinfected and that mold cleanup was performed satisfactorily.

2. Humidity. Mold loves humidity. If your home has high levels of humidity or you use a humidifier, it is the perfect breeding ground for mold growth.

3. Discoloration. Mold is generally identifiable by its bold black or green color. If you have water damage in your home, you may see yellow stains from water followed by dark splotches of mold.

4. Odor. Even if you cannot see mold, you will likely be able to smell it. Mold has a distinct musty and earthy odor, and basements and attics are common areas where you will find the characteristic scent.
If you discover mold growing in your house, remove the mold immediately. Calling a professional mold remediation service is strongly recommended because they will ensure that the mold is carefully removed and the area is thoroughly cleaned, dried, and disinfected with the appropriate equipment. They also help with repairing and restoring any damage that the mold caused.
If you suspect that you have black mold in your home, the best thing you can do is act quickly. Waiting too long to call for help can lead to costly damage in the long run. Proper cleaning and removal will minimize any additional risk to your family and home.

How Air Filtration and Carpet Cleaning Help Prevent Mold Growth

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

HEPA filters are rated to remove 99.9% of particles

How Air Filtration Can Help Prevent Mold Growth

Mold spores are invisible and nearly everywhere, so it may seem impossible to limit their presence in your home. While it is important to make sure your home is inhospitable to mold growth by keeping it dry, reducing the number of spores present can also decrease the chances of a mold infestation occurring. Air filtration and other techniques can help with this task.

Air Purification
A HEPA air purifier is a good choice for filtering out mold spores. HEPA filters trap at least 99.97% of airborne particulates that are at least 0.3 microns in size. The following are three exceptional HEPA air purifiers on the market today:

• Blueair 450E
  
• Oransi Max
  
• Austin Air Healthmate
  
  

Make sure to use the air purifier according to the manufacturer’s instructions to get the best performance.
The devices listed above are all standalone machines; however, you can also install HEPA filters in your HVAC unit and window unit air conditioners. Doing so can increase the efficacy of air purifying machines by decreasing the number of spores that come in from outdoors. Remember to change the filters regularly so that they perform optimally.

Carpet Cleaning
In addition to air filtration, keeping your carpet clean can also reduce the number of spores present in your home. The spores can travel in on people’s shoes and work their way into carpet fibers. Placing a rug at the entryway will trap some of the spores before they travel further, but it is still important to keep the rug and the rest of the carpeting clean. There are a variety of carpet cleaners available to rent or buy. Alternatively, you can have your carpets professionally cleaned. If you are looking to avoid chemical-based cleaning, consider a steam cleaner.
Even homes with excellent air filtration systems can experience mold growth. If you need help addressing the damage, a certified restoration service can help you get your home back to normal quickly and safely.

Containment and Other Key Steps of the Mold Cleanup Process

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Mold containment in an Oklahoma City, OK building

Strategies Mold Experts Should Use When Restoring a Property

Containment is an important part of the mold cleanup process. If you do not properly contain the fungus, mold spores can quickly spread throughout your Oklahoma City, OK, building.
Unfortunately, containment is easier said than done. You may need advanced procedures and technology to prevent cross-contamination. That is why you should not attempt mold remediation on your own. Instead, you should rely on mold restoration and cleanup professionals. They will know how to safely and effectively keep the mold in one location. Ideally, you should look for experts who follow the below steps.

1. Assessment and Inspection
Once you contact the remediation professionals, they should show up at your property for a mold damage assessment. They will use different technologies to detect hidden mold growth.

2. Containment
Experts should similarly utilize the latest techniques to limit the mold contamination. For instance, negative air chambers can isolate the affected area. The mold cleanup professionals may even have HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers that prevent the spores from spreading through the air. The pros may also use more traditional techniques such as putting up physical barriers and turning off HVAC systems.

3. Removal
Depending on the extent of the contamination, some mold-infested items may have to be thrown away or removed from your property. This may include porous assets such as carpet or drywall.

4. Cleaning
The cleanup professionals will then turn their attention to materials that can be restored, such as curtains and furniture. They will sanitize these items and use fogging equipment to eliminate odors.

5. Restoration
Finally, the experts will restore your building to the way it was before the infestation. This may only entail small repairs such as installing new carpet or drywall. It could also involve reconstructing entire sections of the property.
Mold cleanup experts should utilize these strategies as they restore your property. Most importantly, they should inspect and contain the damage so the spores do not spread throughout the building. This should speed up the remediation process.

Preventing Mold Before it Becomes a Problem

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Basic Mold Prevention Measures

Mold is one of the most concerning afflictions a home can sustain. Removing a severe infestation can be time consuming and expensive. This is why it is important that homeowners understand basic mold prevention measures.

1. Finding Sources of Water Damage
Mold consists of tiny fungal spores and filaments that thrive in cool, damp conditions. Naturally, water damage from leaks around windows, roofing, or appliances can create an ideal environment for mold to develop. Sometimes, the wettest areas are hard to find because carpets or other materials that prevent drying can also hide the buildup of moisture. A musty odor is often the most obvious sign of an infestation. If water has damaged areas of your house that are covered by drywall, you should contact an expert who can assess the extent of your problem.

2. Ventilation
If you have located areas of concern for mold growth in your home, you should make sure that these are well ventilated and exposed to dry air. If you live in a region that is particularly humid, or if you find that wetness does not evaporate from certain spaces in your household, a dehumidifier can remove excess moisture from the air.

3. Inspection
While mold prevention is significantly easier than removal, there is always a chance that you have missed key indicators in your home. Hiring an environmental quality professional is the best way to be sure that you have eliminated sources of mold growth. An expert can test for the presence of hazardous molds, as well as assist in determining whether your situation requires immediate remediation.
If your Valley Brook, OK home has suffered unnoticed or untreated water damage, there is a good chance that mold has developed as a consequence. Mold prevention should be an essential part of your home maintenance routine. An established infestation, however, requires the careful handling of an expert.

How SERVPRO Can Help After a Disaster

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has teams available 24/7 to provide their clients with high-quality service

As an insurance professional or business owner, you know that choosing a restoration company is one of the most important decisions to be made after a disaster. Fortunately, SERVPRO can help with everything from the initial damage assessment and claim services to the repairs and restoration.

Emergency Response

SERVPRO has teams available 24/7 to provide their clients with high-quality service, which includes the following:

• Quick response
  
• Pretesting
  
• Professional certification
  
• Access to corporate resources
  
  

A speedy response helps prevent further damage. For example, water can be dried before mold begins to grow, and soot can be removed quickly to prevent further corrosion of surfaces. Before beginning repairs, the teams will do pretesting to determine which items can and cannot be salvaged, saving time and money. Certification by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification ensures that the teams restore properties using the industry's current best practices. Additionally, franchise owners and their employees have access to SERVPRO’s continuing education program. Although franchises are locally owned and may be small, there are larger branches and corporate resources available to assist with bigger jobs.

Insurance Claims
Communication is one of the most important aspects of the restoration process. SERVPRO's claim services help facilitate communication between the property owner, insurance company, and restoration professionals. The claims information is provided electronically, so it is available even after business hours. Loss photographs, job cost estimates, necessary paperwork, and other important documents are all available electronically. The electronic nature of claims processing increases speed and decreases errors.
A restoration company with over 50 years of experience, abundant resources, and highly-trained employees can help get a business back to normal quickly and safely while also making the process seamless for all involved. SERVPRO offers top-notch service for every aspect of the restoration process, from initial assessment and claim services to the final walkthrough ensuring the business is safe and ready to reopen.

4 Answers to Common Questions About Mold

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

Common Questions About Mold Growth

There are many misconceptions about mold. Many people think mold is something that is only found in dirty homes or buildings. Understanding mold and how it relates to your Valley Brook, OK, business is important. Here are some answers to common questions about mold growth.

1. What is Mold?
Mold is actually more common than people realize. Mold spores are found everywhere in the air, both inside and outside. Mold is a fungus that thrives on moisture. Mold cannot reproduce without ideal conditions, such as high humidity in buildings.

2. Where is Mold Found?
Mold is often found in areas where there has been water damage. Floods and leaks are common ways that moisture begins to create the perfect environment for mold to grow. This is why mold is often found near roofs and around windows and pipes. Mold grows well on organic substances such as wood and paper so you may find it on stacks of paper or damp storage boxes.

3. Who Should Take Care of Mold?
The only way to stop mold growth is to eliminate moisture. This includes fixing leaks immediately and cleaning up water thoroughly after any type of flooding. You should also make sure the humidity level in your building is less than 45%. You can get a meter at a home improvement store to monitor the level. If you do encounter a mold infestation, contact a mold remediation specialist who has the tools and training necessary to take care of mold.

4. When Should I Be Worried About Mold?
Any type of mold can produce irritants in the air and cause structural damage to buildings if left untreated. If you see or smell mold, it’s time to contact a professional.
Make a habit of regularly inspecting areas near water sources and keeping the humidity level low in your building. These two practices will help prevent mold growth.

Is Mold Removal a DIY Job?

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

When you discover the presence of mold in your home, or something you think is mold, a number of thoughts might pass through your head at first. You might wonder if you can handle the situation yourself and save some money. After all, you have tackled many jobs in your home before with good results. You might want to go out and buy a mold testing kit and see for yourself if it registers positive. Here's a secret: most likely it will. That's because mold is present at least in small amounts in nearly every home. Mold is naturally occurring in the environment.

Get Results You Can Trust

With a store-bought mold kit, you are still likely to have doubts. Did you administer the kit properly? Does it actually work correctly? And what do you do next? To eliminate uncertainty, call in a certified environmental hygienist (or a certified industrial hygienist), the only person qualified to accurately identify mold. For mold testing that matters, go with the trained and educated professional who has the proper equipment. There are other benefits, too, including the following:

• A CIH is required to act in an ethical manner
  
• The CIH can recommend a plan of action to mitigate mold damage
  
• A professional mold remediation franchise will watch out for the health of workers and your family
  
  

With something as pernicious as mold, you want to be sure of what course to take. The longer mold is present the more likely it is to spread.

Get Effective Mold Cleaning

If you suspect your home in Smith Village, OK, could have a mold problem, a DIY mold solution might not be in your best interest. Always consider mold testing from a licensed professional. If you do have a mold problem, it should be addressed quickly to prevent further damage and to clean the air in your home of allergens.

Setting Standards: The IICRC and the Property Restoration Industry

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

The IICRC is a certification organization that sets standards for the related industries

Setting Standards

Property restoration includes a wide area of services all with the primary purposes of cleaning up messes, repairing damages, restoring building structures and contents, and protecting fragile properties against further damages. The professionals who offer these services typically offer solutions for residential and commercial property owners who have suffered damages because of


Flooding and excess moisture
Fire, smoke, and soot
Sewage and odors
Severe weather and storms
Mold growth
Biohazards


Although property restoration professionals may have training and expertise in specialized areas, most are required to have met some certifications. The IICRC, or Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration, is a certification organization that sets standards for the related industries.

What Is the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration?

The IICRC is a third-party certification agency that also oversees the training and education of restoration and cleanup technicians. Some of the classes that technicians study include fire and water restoration, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, and structural drying. Technicians may also earn certificates in mold remediation, restorative drying, and tarping services. If restoration professionals plan to work with biohazards, special training courses must be completed.

What Is Mitigation?

Mitigation is an important element of cleaning and restoration services. The goal of mitigation is to reduce losses by limiting the effect of disasters. When a property has been damaged by flooding or fires, it may seem that the extent of damages is complete. However, secondary damages are often a possibility. For example, mold growth can take place after floodwaters have been cleaned up. Once the flames of a property fire are gone, the structure may suffer secondary damages because moisture has been absorbed from the water used to fight the fire. A mitigation certificate shows that technicians have demonstrated their ability to prevent further losses.

The Importance of Industry Standard Makers

The IICRC plays a vital role in preparing property restoration and cleanup professionals to perform their jobs with top quality results. It also keeps industry standards high, protecting clients from all walks of life. If you require restoration services in Oklahoma City, OK, choose a company that lives up to these standards and requires trained employees.

What Should Be Included in a Fire Claim

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

What Should Be Included in a Fire Claim

While a fire disaster can be unpredictable, the process for mitigation and restoration is the opposite. As a commercial property owner, you are likely already preparing for the visit from the insurance adjuster. However, while the claims process is necessary for a full recovery, you may struggle with what items to report as having fire damage. Fortunately, a Valley Brook, OK, disaster restoration company can help you sort through the aftermath. In most cases, you can break your losses down into three categories.

• Merchandise
  
• Equipment
  
• Structure
  
  

Merchandise

The first thing most business owners are concerned about is their merchandise. Was there any damage to your goods, or did the fire occur in another area of the building? For product losses, you will want to gather any merchandising records you have to help prove the contents of the building at the time of the fire.

Equipment

Next, fire damage can lead to significant equipment losses. Be sure to itemize computers, appliances, machinery and anything else that is vital to your operations. Again, be sure to find any receipts or maintenance records about the equipment to prove its existence. If you happen to have any photos of the equipment, that can be helpful for the adjuster when they are doing their investigation.

Structure

Last, document any structural damage. Also, it is imperative that you take note of any fire mitigation efforts you have taken, as well as when you completed it. A significant part of your claim will depend on your efforts to minimize any further property loss following the initial devastation.
The fire damage claims process is reminiscent of any other disaster claim. The critical thing to keep in mind is that documentation is the key to a successful claims process. Therefore, instead of trying to go it alone, consider hiring a restoration company to help ensure that all recovery and compliance efforts become part of the record of the event.

What To Do About Mold in Your Crawlspace

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

What To Do About Mold in Your Crawlspace

A home with a crawlspace in Valley Brook, OK, may experience mold problems at some point over the course of its existence. If you have found mold in this area of you home there are a few steps you can take to get rid of the problem.

1. Call a professional

If you find mold in your home it’s important to call a mold damage restoration service as quickly as possible. These professionals will be able to test the mold to determine what kind it is, which will allow you know know what factors may be playing a part in it’s growth. In most cases this may be a water related issue.

2. Dry Out the Area

One of the first steps is to remove any standing water and dry out the crawlspace. Standing water can be removed with the use of a pump, or water rated shop vacuum. A dehumidifier may be used to dry out the area. Once the space is dry mold removal and treatment can begin. During this time it’s also important to locate the source of any water.

3. Remedy the Source Problem

Because mold is often related to a water related problem such as flooding, it’s important to locate the source of any water the mold may be using to grow. Your remediation professional should be able to help with this, as well as help you plan out a solution to any problems found. Fixing any water related issues in the space should help prevent future mold problems.

Mold in the crawlspace is often caused by a moisture problem of some kind. This is why it’s best to identify the source and make sure you remedy that as well. During the remediation process you will also want to contact a professional for help, as well as keep the area as dry as possible to help prevent future mold issues.

5 Tips for Removing Mold From Artwork

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

From flooding to improper storage, there are a variety of ways that mold can grab hold of paintings in your Valley Brook, OK, home. If you're an artist with a home studio or simply a collector, knowledge is power when it comes to mold cleaning.

Here Are Five Tips for Removing Mold From Your Art

1. Don't give it room to grow in the first place. Mold thrives in dark, moist areas. For this reason, avoid storing your canvasses in basements, attics, and other parts of your home prone to mold damage. To protect against flooding, keep your artwork at least 18 inches off the floor too.

2. Know what kind of media you have. If you're the artist, this should be easy. If you're a collector, however, identifying the type of paint or other media used in the affected art, as well as the type of surface and the finish applied to it, may be much more challenging. Still, it's a crucial mold remediation step because each medium requires different care.

3. Remove the frame and other coverings. Take the frame apart and perform mold cleaning with a gentle cleanser, being careful to test the solution on a small area first. If the artwork was wrapped in a storage cover, dispose of it and eliminate the threat of unseen mold.

4. Gently clean the front and back of the artwork. Spray the back of the piece with rubbing alcohol. This should kill active mold spores. Dab mold clusters on the front of the artwork with a cotton swab that's been dipped in rubbing alcohol. Again, test an inconspicuous area first.
Better still, enlist the help of a conservator. He or she will be able to identify the materials involved and the best way to safely clean them.

5. Dry the artwork in the sun for 48 to 72 hours. While it's generally a bad idea to expose artwork to direct sunlight, three days isn't enough time to do any damage.

Water doesn't have to spell disaster for your artwork. With careful mold cleaning, you can restore your paintings and other pieces of art to their former glory.

3 Things You Should Know About Mold

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

3 Things You Should Know About Mold

If you’ve experienced water damage in your Smith Village, OK, building, you should have it taken care of as soon as possible. The longer it is allowed to stay as it is, the more problems will develop. One common issue that occurs after this kind of damage is the growth of mold. If you don’t know much about this fungus, you may find the following information helpful.

1. Mold Spreads Quickly

Under the right conditions, mold can multiply rapidly. It can sometimes take as little as 24 hours to notice the appearance of mold growth. Dark, moist spaces are the most conducive to the spread of this fungus, so leaks and damage from water are likely to speed up the process.

2. Mold Often Returns

Even if you have found and removed mold from the building, this may not be the end of your troubles. Mold spores are present in most environments, so it is nearly impossible to remove it entirely. This means that, if you do not address the root of the problem, excessive mold will continue to return. This is why it is incredibly important to repair any water damage quickly.

3. There Are Techniques You Can Use to Prevent It

While it is not always easy to remove mold once it has spread, keeping some mold prevention tips in mind can help you keep it at bay. Keeping moisture levels low is the best way to do this. Make sure that plumbing fixtures such as sinks and showers do not remain wet for extended periods of time. Check for leaks and clean surfaces regularly. A dehumidifier can help as well.
Because water damage can increase the spread of mold, you should always make repairs as soon as you notice a problem. An emergency cleanup and restoration company can help with this as well as removing any mold that may have already formed.

The Steps You Should Follow After Fire Damage in the Home

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

Steps to Take After an Electrical Fire in Your Home

Few things are more complicated than having to deal with fire damage in the home. Sometimes, the steps that you as the homeowner take after the fire damage determine the speed at which the home will be restored to the state it was in before the fire damage happened. Below are is a guideline outlining the steps you ought to take after an electrical fire or another type of fire breaks out in your home.

Evacuation

The very first thing you need to do is ensure that all the people who were in the building have gotten out. In case there is someone still trapped in the building because of soot damage or smoke, you should call in emergency services such as the fire truck, fire sprinkler systems, fire hoses, and firefighters to help rescue them and put out the fire. Do not try to get back into the house once you are out where it is safe.

The fire suppression

The fire trucks and firefighters will arrive and assess the situation. The firefighters, fire hoses, and their fire trucks will do their best to try and put out the fire within the shortest time possible after getting to the scene. You might see a firefighter going into the house and trying to rescue people who are trapped in the soot damage. They use equipment such as fire hoses, fire sprinkler systems and other appropriate equipment to help them achieve fire suppression within the shortest time.

Visit http://www.SERVPROofsouthoklahomacity.com for more information on fire damage.

How a Quick Response Can Benefit a Restoration

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes a residential or commercial property in Valley Brook, OK, a lot of damage can occur over a 24 hour time period. A water damage restoration service often has to have the ability to move quickly in order to prevent the worst. A quick response time can benefit a restoration in a number of ways.

Water Damage Grows Worse Over Time

Water damage has the ability to grow worse the longer it's left to sit. Some of the problems that could arise include the following:

• Staining from bleeding carpet furniture
  
• Tarnishing in metal objects
  
• Warping in books and other paper goods
  
• Swollen drywall
  
• Warping in wood floors, sub-floors, and door-frames
  
• Potential mold problems
• Peeling paint
  
  

Quick Cleanup Can Prevent Further Problems

The quicker you can begin the drying and cleanup process, the fewer problems you may have. Fortunately, SERVPRO offers a 24 hour fast response time that can get a professional to your property to begin the assessment and plan for repairs before the damage becomes too great. In many cases that use of a dehumidifier may be incorporated to dry the property, and sanitation measures may be taken to prevent mold.

SERVPRO Can Get There Quickly

Because the response line is always open, you can reach a SERVPRO representative at any time. This allows them to mobilize quickly. They also have multiple locations across the country allowing them to work together to tackle larger jobs and trade equipment as needed to handled various damage types.

Since so much can happen over the course of a 24 hour time frame, a water damage restoration service will need to move quickly. This is because the longer the water sits the more damage it can cause. Fortunately cleaning it up quickly can help prevent many types of long-term problems. SERVPRO has services in place allowing you to call any time all week.

Emergency Claim Response From SERVPRO

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the right people ready for any size disaster

Most insurance agents and claims adjusters understand how complex and time-consuming residential damage insurance claims in Valley Brook, OK, can be. This is especially true when slow, disinterested and unprofessional restoration companies get involved. Fortunately, claim services do not always have to be this frustrating - as long as an insurance professional has the dedicated assistance needed to take care of a claim in a timely and efficient manner.

SERVPRO Damage Restoration

Why should an insurance provider choose this damage restoration service for its claims needs? Here are a few compelling reasons:

• Each location is locally owned and operated, meaning both corporate and local resources are available to a location’s employees and customers when needed.
  
• It is considered to be a “Preferred Vendor” for most insurance agencies, making it a trustworthy choice for insurance providers.
  
• Emergency response is a number-one priority in damage situations - all locations have technicians available 24 hours per day and seven days per week to evaluate residential damage from water, fire or mold.
  
  

Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO’s emergency-minded approach makes them a great choice for insurance agents and adjusters needing help with claim services. With a 24/7 team of cleanup technicians on their side, insurance professionals can quickly and accurately assess damage to speed up and improve the claims process for the benefit of both the insurance company and its clients - and help worried homeowners get the restoration assistance they need during a stressful and chaotic time.

Claims adjusting will always have to be a careful and detailed process, but having a great team of remediation professionals can help it be far less hectic. Any adjuster or agent needing to find a team of professional, competent damage assessment technicians with an emergency response approach to disasters in Valley Brook, OK, can contact SERVPRO and see what a difference excellent attention can make for claim services.

5 Things To Include in Your Business's Emergency Plan

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

Business Emergency Plan

Your business in Oklahoma City, OK, may already have contingency plan, but do you have everything included that you should? Formulating a complete evacuation plan may not be easy, but doing so can help protect you and your employees. Here are some things you may want make sure are included.

1. Fire Extinguisher Locations

Making sure everyone knows where the fire extinguishers are located can save precious time during a fire. The extinguishers should be easy to locate and easily accessible during an emergency.

2. Building Exits

An important part of an evacuation plan is knowing where the nearest exits are from any point in the building. This will allow your staff to quickly and safely leave in the event of a fire. There should be at least two exit options from ever point in case one path is blocked.

3. A Meeting Place

Another thing to include in your contingency plan is a safe meeting location. This should be outside and a safe distance from the building. All employees should gather here so they can be quickly accounted for.

4. Emergency Information

While 9-1-1 is the emergency number everyone should have memorized, there may be other numbers you want to keep track of. For example, emergency contact information for your employees. You may want to include a note in your plan about where this information is stored to ensure it’s accessible when needed.

5. Post-Fire Information

You may also want to include the location of insurance or cleanup numbers in your plan so it’s easily available after a fire occurs. Having the number of a trusted fire restoration service may make fire cleanup easier.

With these things included in your contingency plan, you can help ensure that your employees will be able to safely evacuate the building during a fire. Also including your emergency numbers will help insure you know where they are when you need them.

What to Know About Mold and Your Roof

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

Air scrubber retracting mold in a Smith Village,OK business

How to Keep the Roof of Your Business Mold Free

When the weather in Smith Village, OK, turns wet, you may find there's a tendency for mold to turn up on the roof. Left untended these spores can even become black mold. Fortunately, with some knowledge it’s possible to catch mold or even prevent its growth. Here are some things you may want to know to keep the roof of your business mold free.

1. The Growing Conditions

A roof leak can become the prime growing ground for mold to form. Because mold is a fungus it doesn’t require much to get started. Often times enough moisture and a food source can be enough. This means that if you have leaks in your roof, or places where water can pool, there’s a decent chance mold could set in.

2. How Long Growth Takes

In most cases regular mold can begin to grow between one to two days after conditions become wet enough. Black mold can start around eight to twelve days. This is why it’s so important to address leaks and other water damage to the roof as quickly as possible.

3. What To Do

If water damage is found on the roof, or you notice a ceiling leak, it’s important take care of the problem as quickly as possible. You may choose to contact a mold and water damage professional to have an assessment done. They can not only let you know where the problem areas are, but also take care of the full mold remediation process from cleanup to restoration. They may also be able to recommend some prevention measures to help keep your company’s roof mold free in the future.

Understanding where and how mold grows can help you catch potential problems before they turn into black mold. If you do find mold on your company’s roof, a mold remediation specialist can help both with the clean-up and any repairs.

Don't Forget About Smoke Damage and Odors After a Fire

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

If your business in Valley Brook,OK, has been affected by a fire, not all of the damage was a result of the flames. In addition to repairing burned spaces and equipment, soot and smoke cleaning will be a major part of returning your business to full operational capacity. Identifying all of the damage as soon as possible will make it easier for you to get back to business faster.

Identify Fire and Smoke Issues

Smoke damage affects many different areas of your business, and smoke odor can linger if you don't identify all of the destroyed areas where offensive aromas occur and can be trapped. Make sure to address large and small areas of your office spaces:

• Exterior and interior windows and doors stained by smoke
  
• Carpets, curtains, furniture and soft surfaces that retain odors
  
• White boards, projection screens, speakers and other multimedia components that can become discolored in a fire
  
• Structural walls, ceilings and cubicle walls made of porous materials that can retain smells
  
• Hardcopy records, manuals, training materials and paper files that can trap acrid air in cabinets and closets
  

Surfaces Can Be Cleaned and Restored

Once materials and structures that have been damaged are removed from your facility, repairs and renovations can begin. Wood, glass and metal hard surfaces can be sanitized and restored with proper smoke cleaning. Smoke damage in fabric, woven and permeable soft surfaces can be addressed with cleaning equipment that removes the dirt and soot and then cleanses the surface. Air and residual smells can be addressed by placing equipment such as ozone machines, air filtration devices and thermal foggers that target smoke odor in strategic places throughout the affected spaces.

By identifying all of the fire, smoke, and odor damage as soon as possible after firefighters have extinguished the flames, you can be better prepared when it's time for you to call a professional smoke cleaning company for your business in Valley Brook, OK.

Protecting Yourself After a Flood

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

Four Safety Tips To Protect Yourself After A Flood

If your Valley Brook,OK, home is in the path of a flood, you may find yourself taking precautions before the storm arrives, but what about after? Flood safety is still important when the water clears, and there are many dangers to look out for due to the damage that’s left behind. Here are four safety tips for protecting yourself after a flood.

1. Wait for the "all clear" from authorities.

After a flood, it’s important to keep an eye on local news, the NOAA weather radio, or reliable sources on social media. These outlets will let you know when the storm has officially passed, roadways are clear, and water is safe to use again.

2. Use caution when entering a building.

The extreme pressure of floodwater can cause structural damage to homes and buildings. It’s important to have professionals assess buildings for structural hazards and the need for storm damage repairs before entering.

3. Don’t use any of the water.

Floodwater may be heavily contaminated with hazardous chemicals and raw sewage. To ensure your flood safety, it’s important not to use any of the water for cleaning, cooking, or other tasks. As the water lowers, avoid it as much as possible to protect yourself from floating debris, sharp objects, or even dangerous animals such as snakes.

4. Clean everything the water touched.

Cleaning up is one of the most important tasks after a flood. Because of the toxins from sewage and chemicals, it’s important to disinfect or throw away anything the water touched, especially food. Wear protective gear such as boots and gloves while cleaning, and immediately discard anything that absorbs water and can’t be disinfected. When in doubt, throw it out.

Some of the most important steps in flood safety happen after the water is gone. Dangerous hazards will linger until everything has been cleaned and repaired by professionals, so it’s important to follow these safety tips to protect yourself and your Valley Brook,OK, home.