Keep Your Business Out of Water After A Water Damage

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at your Washington County, Tennessee commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when an emergency arises in your business, give us a call at 423-434-0046 and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Washington County

SERVPRO of Washington County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Is Your Business Ready For An Emergency With An ERP?

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

An ERP is an Emergency Ready Program. As a business owner you always want to make sure you have an action plan if ever an emergency occurs. If there was a flood, major leak or a tornado, as a commercial property you would want contacts and action plan close by. We couldn't imagine the amount of stress whenever something like that ever occurred! SERVPRO® of Washington County wants to make things easy for you and your employees and we realize that you might not think about the unexpected things that may happen, therefore we have implemented the ERP program. 

What is the Emergency Ready Program?

Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now!

• As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research.
• Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.
• By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Why Implement the Emergency Ready Program?

• The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile Advantage is of no-cost assessment to your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects.
• It will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• An ERP can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes SERVPRO® of Birmingham as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

 Having an ERP saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. 

DON'T HAVE AN ERP? CALL US TODAY AT (423) 434-0046!

Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.” Give us a call today and set up your ERP!

Commercial Work

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

When getting a call for a commercial job, SERVPRO does not hesitate to take on any job. Somebody has to do it, so why not SERVPRO. Recently we got a call for a warehouse cleaning. The company just bought this warehouse and found out there was grease on the beams and rafters. The company had no idea what they were going to do. So, they gave us a call, we set up the inspection, and gave them a quote on what it would cost for us to complete this work. Once they agreed, SERVPRO went to work. Sometimes it is required that we hire other workers outside of our company if the job is large. We contact other SERVPRO's and come together as one team to get the job done. This specific job took a lot of workers to get it done on time. There were 13 bays that had many rafters in between. It took our crew and our extended workers a little over a week to complete. Our guys were there early and stayed late. They even went out on the weekend to ensure the job was getting done per the timeline set. We couldn’t have been prouder of our team because they did an excellent job, and the customer was completely satisfied. They couldn’t believe how efficient and professional our crew was. We are honored to have such an amazing team, especially when the large commercial jobs come in. SERVPRO’s motto is “Like it never even happened.” I think we live up to that saying for sure! 

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage resulting from a utility room fire or electrical fire can lead to massive losses for business owners. Your commercial property is left in a complete mess due to smoke damage, soot damage, or water damage when there are no fire suppression and fire restoration systems. It takes a lot of time to complete the fire damage restoration process, and this affects business activities in a negative way. It is advisable to restore your business premises as soon as possible after a utility room fire or an electrical fire using the services of professional firefighters.

Commercial fire damage can be minimized by restoration professionals that use specialized equipment such as a fire truck, a fire hose, and the fire sprinkler system. The only way a firefighter can prevent further damage is by beginning the fire restoration process within the first few hours. The fire suppression process involves the use of specialized in fire damage restoration equipment like a fire hose and a fire truck. Professional firefighters should use the right process when restoring soot damage, smoke damage, and fire damage. Commercial fire damage restoration involves the following steps.

Emergency Response

Professional contractors have hotlines that clients can call when faced with utility room fire or electrical fire. The fire suppression process involving the use of a fire hose and a fire truck should begin within the first 90 minutes. The entire restoration process after a utility room fire or an electrical fire should be carried out by certified firefighter using recommended equipment like a fire sprinkler system. The contractors arrive at the scene with all the fire suppression equipment such as firefighter engines, a fire hose, a fire truck, a fire sprinkler system, and a fully stocked fleet of vans.

Detailed Fire Damage Assessment

This stage involves assessing the commercial fire damage by finding out the structural integrity of the business premises and the condition of belongings. After assessing the entire building for soot damage, smoke damage, water damage, and general fire damage, the firefighter must prepare a quote for the entire process. Inspection enables the contractor to identify the source of the fire, the type of fire, and the level of soot damage. The contractors present the cost estimates to the insurance agent or the property owner.

Ensuring Property Security

The restoration company has the responsibility of securing the property of their client during the restoration process. Some thieves may take advantage of the confusion during a fire incident to steal the owner’s property, and that is why contractors must put in place the necessary security measures to ensure that all the materials and items in the building are well secured. Apart from the commercial fire damage, it is important to ensure that there are no further losses through theft. The property is normally left vulnerable because the fire compromises the strength of doors, walls, roofs, and windows. The premises must be well secured during the entire process to prevent all incidences of theft.

Water Damage Remediation

Water damage can occur during the firefighting process because the fire sprinkler system and other firefighting systems end up leaving a lot of water in the building. The sprinkler systems leave the building wet and flooded. The contractor must remove the water from the building and ensure that it remains dry. This can be achieved using various drying and dehumidifying techniques.

Smoke and Soot Removal

Soot and smoke cleanup is a very important process during fire restoration. The process involves removing soot and smoke from surfaces of the property, furniture, and personal belongings. It is possible to mitigate soot damage and smoke damage using specialized equipment like the fire sprinkler system. There should be complete cleaning and sanitization to ensure that there are no traces of soot or smoke odor.

Property Restoration

There must be some repairs and reconstruction in a fire damage recovery process to guarantee complete restoration. Some of the reconstruction processes may include painting of walls, repairing baseboards and ceilings, plumbing repairs, and wall reconstruction. Soot damage and smoke damage can be restored through painting. Fire restoration may also involve replacement of the flooring and the titles.

What Would You Do If Disaster Hits Your Commercial Business?

11/7/2021 (Permalink)

What to look for before hiring a Commercial Restoration Contractor

When your business is faced with water, fire or some other disaster-how do you work to get your livelihood back up and running? Those damages can be easily repaired or could put you face to face with losing a business. When you face any situation of mitigation and restoration, who do you call? Who do you trust?  

It’s time to pick up the phone and call in professionals. However, how well do you know the restoration company you are calling? When looking for restoration contractors, you must remind yourself that you are allowing workers into your space to fix damage to your business. You want workers who are expertly trained professionals with experience. These experts are fully equipped with the latest cleaning instruments and current restoration techniques. Commercial properties expose contractors to an entirely different field of fire requirements, building codes and zoning restrictions. As an owner, you will want to do the research on companies you can trust to follow all guidelines.

 Here are a few things you can do to avoid contacting fake, or unprofessional restoration companies.

Check Their Website, Is it Genuine?

The internet can be a place for scammers and false people. However, it is also a good place to find restoration companies the quickest and easiest way possible.

You will know if the site is from a professional company when you are presented with links to their services. Use these links to research their work, their guidelines as a company.

Some services for commercial restoration include:

• Sewage Remediation
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Water Damage Restoration
• Content Restoration and Care
• Mold Remediation
• Community involvement

Read Testimonials & Client Reviews

Most service companies are turning to social media to keep communities and would be customers well informed. Use their websites, their Facebook, etc. to find reviews and details on services provided. Looking at what previous clients have said about the companies will help you to have an informed decision.

By reading the client’s testimonials, you get an idea of how this company will handle the situation you are facing.

Call Them, It Never Hurts to Ask Them

Professional workers know what they are talking about; they know the history, and services their company provides, and they know how to solve simple restorations even when they are on the other line. 

If the job was done by unprofessional workers, it may do more harm than good to your property. Instead of fixing the problem, they could complicate the situation with sloppy work, and mess-ups, leaving you in a difficult dilemma.

Ask questions. Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions.

SERVPRO of Washington County is ready. We have the Team. We have the Experience. We have the Knowledge to get the job done right.

SERVPRO of Washington County has programs set up for Commercial Businesses to have plans in place for emergency situations. Contact us today to help you set up your FREE plan-be ready for anything that happens.

Protecting My Facility From Bacteria

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

HOW DO I PROTECT MY FACILITY FROM BACTERIA?

Protecting your facility from bacteria involves cleaning and disinfecting regularly. Cleaning involves wiping visible dirt and grime away from surfaces, while disinfecting kills any bacteria remaining. Applying disinfectant to a dirty surface does not help, because once the dirt is wiped away, surviving pathogens may remain underneath the layers of dirt.

Clean the surface thoroughly, and then use a disinfectant to kill the microbes you want to target. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging. If you do not let a disinfectant sit on a surface for the appropriate amount of time, you will not guarantee the disinfection that you need.

Our 3-step Clean, Disinfect, and Protect system thoroughly disinfects your workplace. The Clean and Disinfect steps help to inactivate viruses like the one that causes COVID-19. The third step, Protect, provides antimicrobial protection against bacteria, mold, and fungi for up to 90 days. This post-disinfection service can help protect against a variety of microorganisms that cause serious illnesses like MRSA, Staph infections, and Meningitis.

Spring Cleaning Around Your Office

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

commercial cleaning help

Spring is just around the corner – and it seems to be coming sooner rather than later, with temperatures reaching into the 60s, I plan on giving my car a good deep clean this weekend. It might be a good idea to bring some freshness to your office and do a quick spring cling! Not only will it make you feel better, about not having a cluttered workspace, but you’ll be more productive too!

First, split everything into categories, that’ll help make tackling the task of your once-a-year (let’s be real) declutter easier.

1. Personal stuff: Keep your decorative items down to just three to five items at your desk. Small decorations, framed pictures of your dog, or even a plant are all great ways to personalize your space, and it’s okay to do that. Just try not to go overboard with your stuff. If you have lotions, hand sanitizer, or lip balms be sure to keep them in a top shelf.
2. Papers: Lots of papers on your desk? Look through it, and If you for sure don’t need them, toss them. If you’re not sure be sure to file them away in the correct spot. Shred papers before you toss them, though.
3. Clothing: You don’t need your whole closet at your desk. Keep a sweater or sweatshirt on the back of your chair and your gym bags in a bag under your desk or in the trunk of your car.
4. Supplies: What do you use during your day at work? A planner? Pen? Pad of paper? Maybe some sticky notes? Anything you use daily can stay on your desk, anything else put in a drawer.
5. Food: Alright, let’s be real, you’re not going to eat the bag of veggie straws you purchased last year. Throw those out and throw out the 74 packets of ketchup you’ve got in your desk too. Throw away your water bottles, wash your dirty coffee mugs, too.

Now that you’ve got that taken care of, give your space a nice deep clean! Wipe down all the surfaces with a disinfectant wipe, use canned air to get all the crumbs from your keyboard, and wipe down your computer screen to get all those annoying finger prints off. Enjoy your new, freshly organized space!

For all your other office deep cleaning needs, give SERVPRO of Washington County a call at 423-434-0046

Why All Commercial Businesses should have an ERP

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

An ERP, or Emergency Ready Plan, is a method of planning for emergencies before they even occur. Why should your business have an ERP? Your emergency strategy will be carefully devised to guide you and your employees when taking the decisive action necessary during a disaster of any size. The SERVPRO Ready Plan information will give you the security of emergency preparedness, and your plan information can be downloaded into our Ready Plan app to instantly share with SERVPRO so that the damage can be intercepted right away. 

Here are some things to consider while putting your ERP into place:

Planning Ahead

• Talk with your employees to formulate as many disaster scenarios as they can come up with. The most recent hurricanes that have hit Texas have created numerous learning opportunities for preparedness. Studying such tragedies can help you more effectively project other possible disasters to better plan for them. 

Protecting Everyone

• It is necessary to create an ERP that protects anyone in the building. The Department of Homeland Security refers to this as “Protective Actions for Life Safety,” and includes:
• Fire Drills. Rehearsals for action during a fire.
• Sheltering. Sheltering staff during a natural disaster.
• Sheltering in Place. Sheltering staff during a man-made emergency.
• Lockdown. Eluding an active shooter.

Incident Stabilization

• Stabilizing an incident means preventing further damage on the scene. This can be accomplished by training your employees in various rescue procedures including:
• First Aid and CPR
• Proper Use of Fire Extinguishers

Evacuation Team

• Without guidance during an evacuation, people will often panic. Consider adding an evacuation team to your ERP:
• Assign point persons to guide evacuees out of the building.
• Appoint helpers to assist persons with disabilities.
• If an exit is blocked by a hazard such as a collapsed ceiling, make sure the evacuation team is trained to redirect employees to an alternate exit.

SERVPRO of Washington County is a reliable, professional provider of emergency cleaning and restoration services when you experience fire and water damage. SERVPRO can help you devise an effective Emergency Readiness Plan for your business here in the Washington County Tennessee area.

SERVPRO of Washington County Offers Services to Hotels

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

If you run a hotel in the Washington County area, then you know how important it is to provide the cleanest rooms possible to your patrons. Your business runs on a solid first impression and customer approval. When your guests enter one of your rooms for the first time, it’s imperative that it looks clean and smells great. This encourages people to come back time and time again plus promotes outstanding reviews. Allowing SERVPRO of Washington County to deodorize your rooms helps create the amazing first impression you want them to experience.

We Identify Odors

Hotels and many commercial buildings do not always have the ability to open windows and let in clean fresh air. This is one reason SERVPRO of Washington County has special deodorization techniques and highly trained staff that knows how to identify and eliminate stubborn odors.

We Handle Odors

The techniques we use to handle odors are specifically designed to restore your rooms to a desirable state. Unwanted smells can be trapped in upholstery, carpets, draperies and even hard surfaces. Using fragrance or air fresheners is not the answer to an odor problem. There has been state of the art advances in proprietary cleaning that has changed the way deodorization works.

The professionals here at SERVPRO of Washington County are ready to take your hotel to the next level of clean. We would be honored to work with you to even schedule routine cleanings to prevent offensive odors from becoming excessive in any room. SERVPRO of Washington County is here to help make it "Like it never even happened." Call us to at 423-434-0046 to schedule an appointment for a member of our team to come out and take a look at it.

SERVPRO of Washington County Offers Commercial Mold Inspection Services & Remediation Services to All

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

mold in office from being out of the office for prolonged period of time

Should I leave a mold job for the professionals at SERVPRO of Washington County?

The common signs of microbial growth issues in your Washington County business may be musty odors or visible signs of growth. Moisture problems are commonplace in older buildings or those with heavy usages, such as a business. Specific mold can have health effects, so it is vital to seek expert advice to protect yourself, your customers, and your staff. The methodology of removing microbes from an indoor environment focuses on correcting the moisture problem that causes growth in the first place. However, the guidance does not qualify a person to fix a mold issue. SERVPRO Of Washington County technicians must undergo extensive applied microbial remediation (AMRT) training before they are capable of assessing and remediating premises with mold. 

What are the essential tips for dealing with mold growth?

• Protecting yourself from mold spores is essential, including wearing the correct personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Cleaning up infestations involves avoiding contact with skin, eyes, or mouth. Goggles and respiration equipment are essential.
• Using respirators requires expert knowledge of maintaining, cleaning, and removing a respirator in a potentially hazardous environment.

How does mold spread through a business?

A commercial mold inspection in your Coram business is designed to find the root cause of a microbial growth issue. Molds start as a microscopic spore. If these spores are disturbed, thousands of these spores can release. Spores can grow hyphae in the right conditions, which penetrate porous materials while enzymes begin to digest and break down organic matter. SERVPRO of Washington County remediation inspections can often involve placing containment equipment as a precaution against spreading spores. Sometimes pulling out pieces of a structure can release spores, which is why we seal vents, provide negative air pressure, and physical barriers during inspections. The initial signs of microbial growth could be the tip of the iceberg, which is why it is common for inspectors to remove parts of drywall or fittings to assess the extent of microbial losses. 

What are the right conditions for molds to grow?

• Moisture is essential for microbial organisms to become active.
• Temperatures between 68 and 86 degrees are ideal, although some molds can grow in colder environments.
• Organic materials like woods, natural fibers, and particleboards are an ideal food supply for mold colonies.

Fixing a mold issue and preventing colonies from returning utilizes professional expertise and training. Contact SERVPRO of Washington County at (423) 434-0046. 

3 Important Precautions for Avoiding Water Damage During Construction

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

Having your construction site unexpectedly flooded can cause no end of trouble and bring work to a grinding halt

Avoid Water Damage In The Middle Of Construction

Construction can be a long and expensive undertaking. The last thing anyone wants during construction is water damage from a broken pipe or the need for a water pipe repair in the middle of a building project. A flooded worksite leads to delays, hassle, more expense and probably extra paperwork. It is therefore important to take steps to prevent incidents that may result in water damage in the first place. Here are three important precautions that can help you avoid water damage in the middle of construction.

1. Create a Waterproofing Checklist Before Construction
Before the building has started, it may help to create a checklist of possible water hazards like unguarded openings where rain may leak through and enact preventative measures. This may include creating temporary roofs and coverings for open stairwells or elevators.

2. Inspect the Site Before Leaving
One action that can save you a lot of trouble after the exterior has been constructed and work has moved to the interior is performing a detailed inspection of the site and making sure everything is shut down before leaving. This may include:

Making sure doors, hatches and windows are closed
Making sure water is not running in bathrooms
Making sure pump discharge hoses are connected

3. Have the On-Site Manager Check the Pipe System
A third precaution you can take is having a manager sign off on the pipe system before trying to use it. Running water through a pipe system with bad connections or other problems lead to having to shell out for both water pipe repair and a professional cleanup and restoration service in Gladstone, TN. Having water spouting out can also ruin exposed supplies, walls and flooring. So it is best to have the pipe system checked out by the on-site manager and verified as correctly put together before running water through it.
Having your construction site unexpectedly flooded can cause no end of trouble and bring work to a grinding halt. It is therefore best to prevent water damage before ever needing water pipe repair or restoration services.

Cleaning Up: How Water Restoration Companies Can Make Your Business Safe

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

Commercia water damage in Johnson City, TN

Three Phases of Pipe Burst Cleanup

When your commercial property in Johnson City, TN, sustains water damage from a broken pipe, the first call you should make is to a professional water restoration specialist. There are three phases of pipe burst cleanup, and companies that employ certified technicians who can execute each phase well are your best bet for a timely resolution.

Phase 1: Inspection

The first thing restoration specialists do when they arrive at your business is to assess the situation. This assessment tells them how to plan their cleanup process. Tests reveal whether the water causing the damage is clean or contaminated. The professionals determine moisture levels both on and under surfaces by taking readings. They can then advise you on the work that needs to be done and give you an estimate of how long it should take to complete.

Phase 2: Extraction

The second phase of pipe burst cleanup is getting rid of all the excess water. If there is a lot of standing water, they use special equipment to siphon it out of the building, often taking debris with it. They can use heat both to dry items and materials in the building and also begin the sterilization process.

Phase 3: Disinfection

If the water in question belongs in Category 3, the sewer cleanup company must disinfect any salvageable items before the area is safe for workers to return. Contaminated water is often plagued with viruses, chemicals, bacteria and other harmful substances. The training the technicians undergo is necessary to know which professional-grade cleaners to use to address the unique cocktail of contaminants in the water.

A broken pipe or an overflowing toilet can wreak havoc upon your commercial property. When this happens, water remediation specialists are necessary to inspect the damage, extract the water, and disinfect everything that is able to be saved. If you need pipe burst cleanup in Johnson City, TN, call the professionals for a quick, thorough solution. 

A Professional Response to Smoke Damage

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

A Professional Response to Smoke Damage

There's much more to fire damage than structural destruction; smoke and soot both affect your property and belongings long after the flames have been put out. In addition to repairing damage to walls, ceilings, and floors, fire and smoke damage cleanup and repair professionals handle soot and smoke cleaning. Several methods of cleanup are used to prevent stains and lingering odors:

• Air filtration devices: These devices are commonly used to filter out high levels of particulates, including soot and chemicals from fire suppression products
• Ozone machines: Ozone contains three oxygen molecules, and one of those has the ability to detach itself and attach to chemicals and other substances in the air. The devices are used to destroy germs.
• Thermal foggers: This type of equipment is effective at removing the odor of smoke and deodorizing the rooms and furnishings on your property.
   

Sometimes, property owners are in a hurry to get their properties back to pre-fire conditions and throw out furnishings and equipment that could be restored through professional cleaning.

Assessment and Mitigation

For the best results, contact a fire damage cleanup company as soon as possible. Once these professionals arrive, they'll begin with a comprehensive assessment of the property and furnishings. Smoke odor mitigation generally begins with a thorough washing of all surfaces. Specialized products, such as chemical sponges, are used to get below the surface of materials and to get rid of stain-causing substances.

Cleanup and Deodorization

The deodorizing process is next in the smoke cleaning plan. This is the point when air filtration, ozone, and thermal fogger machines are used. Technicians are well-versed in the safe and appropriate use of these powerful tools, so smoke odor won't be a problem when clients return to your property.

Jonesborough, TN, fire and smoke cleaning professionals have the specialized equipment and training to leave your property in pristine condition. Remember to act quickly after your property has been affected by fire damage to prevent lasting smoke damage.

Restoration After a Fire: Tips For Sorting Insurance Responsibility and Repairing Rental Properties

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

Apartment fire in Jonesborough, TN

Restoration After A Fire

The aftermath of an apartment fire can be a stressful, confusing time for everyone involved. Getting an idea of what needs to happen in advance can make the days after a blaze feel less overwhelming. If you find yourself dealing with a fire in Jonesborough, TN, here's what you'll need to remember for your insurance company:

• Call insurance right away to get the claims started.
  
• Don't touch or clean anything - get photos of everything.
  
• Create a detailed inventory of damaged items, features or structures.
  
• Communicate with the fire department to get a fire report for your property.
  
• Figure out whose insurance is responsible for which damages.
  
  

Landlords' Responsibility

In the case of an apartment fire, the landlord's insurance is responsible for all structural damage and any repairs related to the rental property itself. This would include property fittings and any fixtures that will remain after renters move out. There's an exception to this rule if the blaze is shown to be a tenant's fault. If they are somehow responsible, their insurance pays for fire or smoke damage to the property.

Tenants' Responsibility

When there's fire damage to the contents inside the property - furnishings, belongings, garments, etc. - the renter is responsible for covering those repairs. If the tenant has renter's insurance with contents coverage, their insurance should cover the bulk of repairs or replacements. However, if the fire is shown to be caused by negligence on the landlord's part, the property owner's insurance might then be on the hook for covering content damage.
After insurance and responsibility have been sorted, you may find yourself needing to repair several types of damage. Fire can lead to other malfunctions, such as burst pipes and water damage. The best thing you can do is hire seasoned professionals, well-versed in multiple types of damage, to help you fix the myriad issues flames can create in an apartment. Between having the right information for insurance and partnering with good restoration professionals, you can expedite the process of getting your property ready to live in once again.

Top 3 Tips to Make Your Workplace Fire Drills a Success

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Have regular fire drill exercises to prepare your employees for the worst

Top 3 Tips to Make Your Workplace Fire Drills a Success

Most people see the workplace as a safe environment where they build careers and make money. However, you run the risk of getting caught up in a fire every time you walk into the office building. Whether it is an electrical fault or terrorist act, you will need a solid escape plan to get out safely.

Here are the top 3 tips that will make your workplace fire drill a success in Telford, TN:

• Set a strict interval
  
• Don't announce mock evacuations
  
• Add the element of surprise
  
  

Set an Interval and Stick to It

Too many people see fire drills as interruptions to the workflow, but you shouldn't. Always include the evacuation exercise in the company's to-do list and don't let anything else get in the way.
Still, you have to get the timing right. For example, bi-weekly drills might be extreme, and annual intervals are not reasonable either. The sweet spot is anywhere between 3 to 4 months.

Don't Announce Simulated Evacuations

There is a high chance people will not take publicized emergency evacuations seriously, and they will not work as you hoped. People will exit the building as they usually would, walking past any "blocked exits" on their way out. So, it is better to scare them every time.

Add the Element of Surprise

Emergencies are often unpredictable. There could be a fire behind a door, forcing victims to find an alternative route. Therefore, it is important to make sure everybody knows at least 2 exit points on every floor in case of a real disaster. To practice this, you will need to assign people to random exits holding a sign that's written, "Exit blocked, find another way out." Also, don't forget to include visitors in your plan.
An escape plan is as good as how often it is practiced. For that reason, have regular fire drill exercises to prepare your employees for the worst.

Common Concerns About Mold

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

If you find mold growth in your property, don't panic

Frequent Questions About Mold and How To Handle It

Are you concerned that you may have a mold issue in your Johnson City, TN, building? Mold growth is very common, as the spores are everywhere. It only becomes a problem when the spores land in an area that fosters uninhibited growth or if the mold is not treated when it's found. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about mold and how to handle it.

• What causes mold to grow?
  
• How is mold recognized?
  
• What is the best way to get rid of mold problems?
  
  

What Causes Mold?

Mold is a natural fungus that is found everywhere. It will grow in areas that have a lot of moisture and high humidity. When there is a leak or water damage in your building, there may be mold growing too. Mold can grow on nearly any surface as long as there is oxygen, moisture, and organic matter for it to feed on.

How Is Mold Recognized?

If there is untreated mold growth in your building, you will usually smell or see it. You can recognize mold by its musty odor and its black or gray-green color. If any areas of your building have sustained water damage, they are susceptible to mold. You can have mold testing done as well if you suspect an issue.

How Is Mold Treated?

Mold is best treated with professional cleanup and remediation. Since the spores live all over, you cannot truly remove all mold, but you need to take action to remove any visible mold patches. You also need to address the source of water. Once the mold is professionally treated, you can help prevent it from returning by taking away the source of moisture and managing areas that are prone to high humidity levels.
If you find mold growth in your property, don't panic. Contact mold remediation professionals to help get you back in business quickly and safely.

How To Make a Safety Plan at Work

12/21/2019 (Permalink)

Practice your escape route

How to Develop an Effective Safety Plan

As a business owner in Embreeville, TN, you have to consider your safety and the safety of your employees. A fire can start any time, and it can spread quickly. It's important to have a safety plan in place for an emergency. Here are some things you can do to develop an effective safety plan.

Make a Team

If there are many employees in your building, then your best bet is to make a safety team. Put a group of people in charge of things such as the following:

• Coordinating a fire drill
  
• Drafting safety plans
  
• Ensuring fire alarms and sprinkler systems are functioning
  
  

This should help make sure that safety is being taken seriously and practiced regularly in your building.

Communicate Safety Procedures
Anyone that works in your building should be aware of the safety procedures and escape plan. Post escape routes in common areas, and give everyone a copy of the safety plan. If you want to ensure that people have read the plan and are prepared, conduct a quiz that requires a good passing score. This will encourage your employees to take the necessary time to study and familiarize themselves with the plan.

Conduct Safety Drills
Practice makes perfect, and having a fire drill will help you see what may need to be fixed in the plan. Having a drill once a month is a good way to make sure everyone is ready to evacuate if necessary. Consider providing different scenarios for different drills. For example, one of the exits may be blocked by fire in a real emergency, so make one of the regular exits inaccessible during a drill.
These steps can help make sure you and your employees are safe at work. A safety committee can help put together a plan, communicating these plans with your employees will give them the information they need in case of an emergency, and a fire drill can put the plan to practice. Remember, after any fire, fire restoration experts can restore your place of work and get it back in good shape.

Maintain Fire Sprinklers To Prevent Accidental Activation

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

Water loss in a Gladstone, TN church

Smoke detectors are widely used by businesses to protect against fire damage, but sprinklers are, of course, more effective at putting out fires. While a smoke detector sounds an alarm, fire sprinklers actually disperse water over the affected areas. Unfortunately, without proper sprinkler maintenance, this protective tool could actually lead to water damage as gallons of water spray into the building.

The Value of Sprinklers

To understand how to prevent damage, it's best to understand how the systems work. Sprinkler heads are generally connected to a system of pipes inside walls or ceilings and eventually connect to the building's water main. The goal of the system is to quickly move water to the site of an emergency. This should put out any flames before the fire has a chance to spread and reduces the amount of smoke in the building, making it easier for occupants to evacuate the building.

Heat Sensors May Cause Accidental Activation

When fire sprinklers are exposed to enough heat, valves along the system are released and the system goes off. Many systems are set to go off when temperatures reach about 154 degrees Fahrenheit. However, these systems don't recognize the difference between sources of heat. One important element of sprinkler maintenance is making sure that heat-emitting objects, such as lighting and heaters, are not positioned near the heat sensors.

Extreme Temperatures, Corrosion, and Defects

Extreme temperatures could also cause sprinklers to go off at the wrong time. In addition to too much heat near the sensors, very cold temperatures could cause pipes to freeze. Another cause of accidental sprinkler activation is pipe corrosion. If your business is located in a naturally humid environment, the high levels of moisture in the air could cause corrosion. The use of chemicals or cleansers could also lead to corrosion. Finally, manufacturing defects could cause the system to trigger.

Proper sprinkler maintenance is the key to preventing accidental activation and a visit from your Gladstone, TN, water damage cleanup and remediation experts. Learn more about the best maintenance steps to protect your business from expensive fire sprinkler accidents.

The Emergency Sprinklers Went Off, But There Wasn't a Fire: What's Next?

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

When emergency sprinklers go off, you may have to deal with flooding.

Your commercial building in Johnson City, TN, is equipped with fire sprinklers. This emergency system helps control flames should a fire break out on your property. However, this system might not always work correctly. If the sprinklers go off when there wasn't a fire, you may want to do the following.

5 Steps to Follow When The Sprinklers Go Off

• Turn off the water. Because the sprinklers started going off without a reason, you may need to turn the water off to stop the water from flooding your building. Quickly turning off the source of the water can help reduce the amount of damage the deluge is able to do.
• Call your insurance company. Your commercial insurance may help cover the cost of fixing up water damage. Of course, many coverages have limitations on what will be covered. You can talk to your insurance provider to find out if the accidental running of emergency sprinklers qualifies under your policy.
• Call a restoration company. Whether or not your insurance will help pay for the damages, you need to clean up after the flooding has occurred. A professional restoration team can help you get rid of the standing water, dry out your belongings and repair the damages done to building materials.
• Schedule an inspection. Most fire sprinklers are designed to only go off when the temperature near a sensor reaches fire-like heights. If your system started spraying for no reason, you may want to have it inspected. This may help you figure out what caused the water to turn on and fix the issue.
• Set up regular maintenance. Performing regular maintenance on your sprinkler system can help ensure you don't have to deal with this dilemma ever again. You may be able to hire a professional to clean and repair the sprinklers.

When emergency sprinklers go off, you may have to deal with flooding. Quickly cleaning up the water and assessing what caused the sprinklers to go off are important steps in this process. 

Secondary Water Damage and How To Combat it

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Dryness is the key to preventing the growth of mold following a flood

If you experience a flood at your business in Telford, TN, it can be somewhat of a shock and you may not know where to start to get things back in order. The primary water damage can be overwhelming and quite a job to clean up, but secondary damage from black mold can be a real threat and needs proper attention.

What is Secondary Damage?

If the process of drying things out is not done completely and correctly by restoration professionals, secondary damage can occur. This is damage that can occur once the major problem has been remedied, and can include:

• Black mold growth and spores
  
• Bacterial growth
  
• Lingering foul odors
  

Mold can weaken wood surfaces including subfloors, or studs and joists. Sheetrock can become brittle and flaky, and fabrics and carpets can rot. Both mold and bacteria can be a cause of a nasty, lingering smell. Those odors are a sign that something is wrong and needs further attention.

How Does Black Mold Take Hold?

Any residual wetness or humidity remaining after flood cleanup is finished, can allow mold spores to take hold and grow, sometimes with astonishing speed. Black mold can grow on almost every type of surface and thrives in high humidity situations.

If studs are left wet or damp sheetrock is not thoroughly dried out, moisture can be trapped inside of walls where there is little to no air circulation, enabling mold spores to find a home and multiply quickly. It can also grow on interior surfaces.

What can Be Done?

Dryness is the key to preventing the growth of mold following a flood. Leaving things open for adequate times and using industrial fans can help as well as dehumidification machines.

Using a water damage restoration professionals to do it right the first time can help your business in Telford, TN avoid the unnecessary complications that black mold and other secondary damage.

FAQs About Mold Standards

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Mold remediation may seem complex, but viewing mold standards can make the process easier to understand.

FAQs About Mold Standards

Whether it’s growing on ceilings, in drywall or under sinks, mold can cause substantial damage to commercial properties in Johnson City, TN. In order to better understand the process of mold remediation, it can be helpful for business owners to understand current mold standards.

What Is the Purpose of the Standards?

Having a set of standards is often important in a variety of industries, including in the restoration industry. These standards exist to:

• Ensure that mold remediation professionals follow the most up-to-date and effective practices when removing black mold and other types of mold
• Provide business owners and managers of commercial properties with information about the process of mold remediation
• Establish a level of professionalism and a code of conduct that experts in mold remediation must meet
  

What Are the Types of Standards?

There are several standards that professionals in mold remediation may follow. The most common mold standards are from the following organizations:

• EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)
• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
• IIRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification)
  

What Is the Difference Between the Different Standards?

Each of the three most common mold clean standards offer guidelines for professionals to follow, but important details set one standard apart from the other. IIRC standards focus on providing restoration companies that focus on both commercial and residential mold removal with current best practices in the industry. The EPA and OSHA standards apply specifically to commercial properties in particular. Since removing mold in commercial properties can require professionals to use different types of equipment and methods than in residential properties, it’s often useful to have standards for both types of buildings.

Mold remediation may seem complex, but viewing mold standards can make the process easier to understand. Knowing the purpose of the standards, which ones are often used and the difference between various standards can be beneficial to business owners and managers.

Keep Looters Away From Your Fire-Damaged Business

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

Board up windows after fire damage in a Johnson City, TN property

Take Steps to Prevent Looting and Keep the Building and Yard Safe

At any moment, your Johnson City, TN, business could be affected by fire damage. Once the flames are gone and the smoke has been cleared out, your work isn't over. The safety and security of your property and business belongings are now at risk. You need to take steps to prevent looting and keep the building and yard safe.

• Secure the roof.
  
• Board up entry ways.
  
• Add perimeter fencing.
  
• Contact local authorities.
  

Protect the Roof and Address Openings

It's fairly common to have damaged roof openings as part of fire damage, and looters and other vandals may take advantage of those openings to access your building. Use plywood to prevent entry to your business and tack tarp over the exposed areas to keep rain, melting snow, and pests out of the building.

Prevent Unauthorized Access to the Building

Any windows or doors could allow access to your business and equipment. This is especially true after areas have been weakened by disaster. If you have exterior grade solid core doors, just make sure the locks are in good working condition. Otherwise, use plywood sheets and sturdy hinges to construct usable entryways for fire damage and remediation professionals.

Any doors and windows that aren't needed as entry points should be boarded up during fire cleanup to keep looters and other unauthorized people from entering the building. Store the windows, glass, and other components inside the building.

Install Perimeter Fencing

Even a temporary fence around your property can discourage vandals and other individuals from getting into your business during cleanup and reconstruction. This step is especially crucial if you have a lot of equipment, business documents, and other possessions in storage on the property. For the best results, choose fencing with diagonal braces on end and gate posts, a strong galvanized mesh, and lock and chain security.

Even if you have a good security system in place, these added steps can prevent further damages and losses. Don't add more trouble on top of fire damage by neglecting to secure your commercial property.

Winter Storms: Preparing Your Business for Snow, Ice and More

12/29/2018 (Permalink)

Winter storms can cause frozen pipes issues in your Gladstone, TN commercial building

Preparing Your Business for Snow

Every winter season usually has at least one winter storm that wreaks havoc on the population. Businesses are generally the worst affected because consumers stay home and limit their exposure to the elements. However, beyond business interruption, a storm can also cause significant damage, from frozen and burst pipes to electrical issues. What is a business to do? As a property owner, before this winter season, you should focus on four core areas: preparation, safety, inventory and contacts.

1. Preparation

While storm damage typically consists of broken windows, roof damage and flooding, winter weather adds the threat of freezing pipes to the mix. To prepare your building for the impending season, you can check for drafts, cracks and sealant issues. Make sure that weather stripping is in excellent condition, and ensure that your heating and ventilation system is working correctly, pushing heat to all areas of the building.

2. Safety

When it comes to a winter storm, slip and fall injuries are serious risks. Make sure that you have a plan for maintaining safe walkways and parking lots throughout the season. You can hire a plow service or ask your employees to shovel and salt the premises, ensuring both customer and employee safety.

3. Inventory

The amount of snowfall and fluctuating temperatures can lead to outside flooding as well as burst pipes. The weight of heavy snows, especially when cycling through the process of melting and refreezing, can lead to significant strain on a roofline. Therefore, you should document your inventory, both on paper and by photograph, to prove assets to your insurer in case a claim is necessary after roof collapse or flooding.

4. Contacts

While it is essential to keep all employees in the loop about preparation and potential disaster cleanup efforts, you should compile a list of important operational staff. Additionally, you may want to keep the number of a disaster restoration specialist in the Gladstone, TN, area on hand in case of an emergency.

A winter storm can prove problematic for a business. For this reason, it is vital to prepare and focus on the four key areas above.

What To Expect After Commercial Storm Damage

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning up water damage in a Cherokee,TN building

Natural disasters can strike at any time in Big Cherokee, TN, with flooding being the most common. For business owners, first know how keep safe after a flood. Second, know the steps for remediating water damage at your property. From tear out of wet materials to other aspects of storm restoration, read below for what to do in the aftermath.

After a Storm: Staying Safe

Before considering the damage to your property, make sure that you are safe. Consider the following tips after flooding recedes:

• Wait for local authorities to announce the presence of non-hazardous conditions before you return to check on your property.
• Before entering the building, shut off the main power supply to avoid electrical shock. If you are unable to do so, wait until professionals arrive to assess the damage.
• Do not touch or ingest flood water. Storm waters are considered “black water” and are contaminated with bacteria, microorganisms and viruses.

After a Storm: Restoring Your Commercial Property

Start the storm restoration process as soon as possible to avoid secondary damage, such as mold, from occurring. Water restoration specialists typically arrive to assess the damage within hours of your call. Restoration involves some or all of the following steps depending on the amount of damage:

• Excess water and debris are extracted using professional grade vacuums and pumps.
• Since storm water is contaminated, tear out of wet materials is often necessary. This includes porous items such as drywall and carpet padding.
• The structure and contents are thoroughly dried. Remaining moisture is removed with industrial dryers and dehumidifiers.
• Impacted areas are cleaned and sanitized. Air filtration devices are used to remove airborne bacteria and viruses.
• Building structures and inventory are repaired and restored, as necessary.

After a storm in Big Cherokee, TN, consider your own safety first. Once it is advisable to return to your commercial property, contact your insurance agent and a water restoration professional. Specialists assess the water damage and determine the course, from tear out of wet materials to restoration, which can return your business to pre-flood condition.

Which Contents Can Be Cleaned After a Flood?

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

After a flood in Johnson City, TN business and commercial property owners may be curious about which contents can be cleaned and which will need to be discarded and replaced. Nonporous materials tend to be able to withstand the process of content cleaning, but exposure to black water may irreparably damage porous materials.

Can Porous Materials Be Cleaned?

Several types of porous materials call for special cleaning methods or may not be able to be cleaned:

• Carpets and carpet pads
• Rugs
• Mattresses
• Upholstered furniture

Porous materials absorb contaminated floodwater and may be difficult or impossible to clean. Leaving these contents intact may increase the likelihood of microbial exposure or mold growth and lead to undesirable odors.

Content Cleaning Methods

Some porous materials can be cleaned using the following methods:

• Abrasive cleaning involves agitating the surfaces of contents
• Dry cleaning is an effective method of pretreating contents or cleaning delicate materials
• Foam cleaning may be suitable for upholstery to avoid shrinkage
• Immersion cleaning involves dipping items into a cleaning solution
• Spray and wipe cleaning is suitable for items that cannot withstand wet cleaning
• Wet cleaning can help to remove heavier residues

It is a good idea to consult with content restoration experts as soon as possible after flooding occurs. There could be some cases in which these experts may be able to salvage a rug or remove the upholstery and stuffing from furniture and reupholster the item. Other items, such as mattresses, may not stand up to any of these methods and should be replaced.

How To Hire Cleaning Experts

A commercial restoration firm in Johnson City, TN can provide content cleaning services and help owners ensure that the structures of their properties are safe following a flood. Restoration experts may be able to limit the extent of secondary damage caused by black water and make it possible for more contents to be restored. Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on storm damage. 

Fighting Mold in the Lunchroom Fridge

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

Once you remove the fridge mold, it should be safe to return new food to the unit.

Company lunchrooms often have a fridge full of containers of unknown casseroles, vegetables, and desserts. These same refrigerators are often receptacles for leftover lunches of Chinese food, overlooked yogurt cartons, and curdled cream for coffee. The problem with forgotten food in the communal icebox is that fridge mold can develop. Sadly, with fungus growing inside the fridge, a yeasty, mold smell can also develop and spread into the breakroom. The following steps can help you remove the mold once it appears in the lunchroom refrigerator.

1. Empty the fridge. Toss all the containers, bags, and boxes of food into the garbage because they are probably contaminated with mold spores. If there is more than one fridge in the office, transfer frozen and perishable food items until cleanup is complete.

2. Make or purchase a mold remover. If you are making the cleaning solution, try mixing two cups of warm water and one cup of white vinegar. Mix ingredients in a spray bottle. Warning: Do not use bleach because it is too abrasive on the inside walls of the refrigerator.

3. Scrub inside the icebox and remove the fridge mold. After donning a safety mask, spray the inside walls and shelves of the refrigerator. Spray any mold colonies liberally. Remove the mold and cleaning spray with a wet cloth or sponge. If mold is severe, contact a mold removal team in Johnson City, TN, to eliminate the fungus.

4. Reapply the cleaning solution to the inside of the fridge. Although it may appear the mold is gone, spores can easily hide in plain sight. By cleaning all surfaces a second time, you can be sure to remove the spores and the mold smell as you continue disinfecting the fridge.

Once you remove the fridge mold, it should be safe to return new food to the unit. However, to make sure the mold doesn’t return, check for food that needs to be discarded on a weekly basis. By rotating the food inside the refrigerator, you can make sure your lunchroom is mold free. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com/.

Water Damage: The Hidden Side of Fire Restoration

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke cleanup may be your main focus when your business in Johnson City, TN, catches fire, but water cleanup is an inevitable part of the process.

Water Damage: The Hidden Side of Fire Restoration

When your business in Johnson City, TN, is ravaged by fire, smoke and fire cleanup are not the only aspects of the restoration process you must undergo. The immense amount of water needed to put out the fire must also be extracted. Restoration service professionals can perform water cleanup. Knowing what to expect from this process can help make it go more smoothly.

Identifying Immediate Needs

After a fire, chances are that most of the items in the affected space have been damaged by smoke, fire or water and thus need to be cleaned. Start by securing what you need to keep your company in business while smoke cleanup is in progress:

• Basic office supplies
• Essential equipment needed to run the business
• Temporary space

Even if items in your business are not affected by the fire, they may have water damage and may need to be cleaned or discarded. Keep track of the items you have to purchase to stay operational.

Identifying Salvageable Items

It’s important to call restoration professionals with a specialization in water cleanup because the water used to put out the fire may have been contaminated, thus it is unsafe for you and your employees. The technicians can help you by identifying what can be saved and making sure that it is cleaned properly before you use it again.

Identifying Items That Must Be Replaced

Some items may be too damaged to salvage. Once the fire department tells you that it is safe to enter your business again, make a list of all the items you need to replace. This list can help your insurance adjuster determine how big of a payment your policy allows.

Smoke cleanup may be your main focus when your business in Johnson City, TN, catches fire, but water cleanup is an inevitable part of the process after the fire has been put out. Therefore, it’s a good idea to hire restoration specialists who are certified to provide both services. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com/. 

3 Tips for Getting Rid of Odor After a Flood

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

As you can see in this picture, this facility suffered a heavy water loss that caused flooding to a large portion of the interior.

Flood water in a commercial building can lead to a lot of bad smells. Mold might start to grow, the sewage system could get backed up or the stagnant water could simply start to give off its own aroma. Lingering mold growth is a common cause of bad smells. Depending on the source of your bad odor in Johnson City, TN getting rid of the scent can be a long process. Going about the odor removal the right way may help you better eliminate the bad smells and keep them from returning.

1. Find the cause. Finding the source of the smell, whether it's inside of your building or outside, can help you get to the root of the problem. Sewage loss, for example, needs to be taken care of differently than smells caused by mold growth. Without knowing where the smells are originating from, you may not be able to truly understand the odor.

2. Disinfect the area. Clean the source of the smell. Disinfecting the area where the odor is coming from helps remove the aroma without leaving any traces behind. If this step is skipped, you may notice the scent comes back after a short time.

3. Deodorize. Finally, if you really want to get rid of a bad smell caused by flooding, you need to be sure to deodorize your building. Saving this step for last ensures you're not simply covering up the bad smell, but actually getting rid of it.

It's not always easy to find the source of a bad smell. If you really want to get rid of the unpleasant aroma associated with mold growth or other flood damages, you should turn to experts in deodorization. They will have a better idea of what to look for after a flood. It may be tempting to try to take care of the problem yourself, but simply spraying a deodorizer will only mask your problems. Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on commercial storm damage. 

Deodorizing Your Commercial Building

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

Odor removal is just as important as nice fragrances. Trying to cover up bad smells like burned popcorn sometimes just makes the overall air quality worse. The goal of scent removal should be to neutralize the offensive odor. Bad odors can cause you to lose business.

Odor Control

Cleaning services go a long way in building deodorization. Unwanted scents associated with mold and mildew are allowed to linger and grow if proper cleaning is not part of a regular routine. When germs and bacteria are given the opportunity to grow, the result is a smelly facility.

Other ways to control odor include making sure the garbage is always taken out and avoiding burned popcorn smells and other food odors in the staff break room. If you have a facility that allows smoking, it might be wise to do a smoke cleanup occasionally.

Odor Control in Commercial Office Buildings

There are some basic principles to effectively removing odors.

• Odor control products
• Eliminating the odor at its source
• Frequent cleaning
• Maintenance of cleaning equipment

Large commercial spaces may require special odor control treatment. If you are dealing with an odor problem that you cannot seem to get a handle on, deodorization companies in Gray, Tennessee, specialize in removing offensive smells for good.

Break rooms, bathrooms and trash cans are major culprits. Burned popcorn has a distinct odor that lingers. Break rooms tend to have other smelly food odors that stick around in the bottom of trash cans and inside microwaves and refrigerators. If bathrooms aren’t cleaned regularly, they are a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Cleaning is one of the best ways to keep your facility smelling fresh and clean.

If you are dealing with bad smells in your building, don’t just try covering them up. You need to take measures to discover the source and eliminate it. Maintain your cleaning equipment so it doesn’t add to the problem.

For more information visit us at http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com.

How to Begin Mitigation and Restoration

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Getting Back to Normal After Water Damage

The mitigation of water damage is the first crucial step toward to getting life back on track after a flood or pipe break. Victims will definitely want to call a water cleanup company, restoration company, and their insurance companies immediately if they experience flood damage or other kinds of water damage in their buildings or business.

These companies can give out important instructions on how to begin the mitigation process, drying process, water cleanup process, and other advice that victims may need. Some insurance companies may want pictures of the flooded building or business and can instruct their customers on how to begin the damage documentation process.

Water cleanup companies and restoration companies will be able to give some safety instructions to follow over the phone, but will most likely have to survey any water of flood damage in person before taking any steps toward damage mitigation or beginning the recovery process. Victims should be sure to get to a safe location and avoid unnecessary risks like attempting to retrieve damaged possessions from their buildings or business. Restoration is not as impossible as it may seem as long as the proper steps are taken.

Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on water damage.

Water Removal and Extraction

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

The next step toward water damage restoration is extracting all of the water from the damaged structure.

The source of the flooded building or water in business settings will have to be determined. This can be an obvious external source, such as a storm or natural flood, or it can be from a pipe break, or a supply line break. If the cause of flooding is a pipe break or supply line break, professional water removal companies may be able to provide emergency services on the spot.

Unlike with a pipe break or supply line break, an external factor like a flood or storm may mean waiting longer for assistance from a professional company. Water removal companies will use equipment like moisture detectors, hygrometers, infrared cameras, submersible and gas-powered pumps and truck-mounted or portable extraction units perform efficient water removal and to will pump and water out of the flooded building or business.

Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on commercial water damage.

The Commercial Drying Process

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Drying and Dehumidification

After the water in building or water in business areas is extracted, the drying process must begin. Water in business settings may mean high amounts of financial loss for business owners. Water in a building can mean sentimental loss and impact victims on a very personal level. A good water restoration company will try to minimize these losses for their clients by using multiple highly-efficient drying techniques. Companies will likely use specialized equipment to manipulate temperature and relative humidity to remove the remaining moisture.

Sanitizing and Restoration

After water is removed and the damaged structure is dry, a water restoration company will begin the sanitation process and prepare for flood damage repair. The restoration company may use natural or chemical sanitization methods. A building or business must be cleared of mold and mildew before rebuilding can begin.

Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on commercial water damage.

First Aid for Toilets

1/3/2018 (Permalink)

The last thing you want to explain to your business's stakeholders in Johnson City, TN is where an intolerable smell is coming from. That's why proper sewer cleanup is a must, whether it's from something as quotidian as a flooded toilet or a colossal wastewater geyser caused by municipal sewer backup. Just remember these simple principles:

• Assess the situation
• Secure the area
• Take action

A Level Head

Every sewage issue needs a careful analysis, even if performing one is unsavory. Determine which of the following three classes best describes your spill:
1. Major hazard: unknown water sources, sewage backup and toilet overflow
2. Potential hazard: clean toilet overflow, soapy water and water with chemicals
3. Low risk: broken water pipes, clean water spills or malfunctioning fixtures

Complete Protection

After you know what you're dealing with, it's time to think about how to protect yourself and your stakeholders during the sewer cleanup process. These are steps that you should probably feel comfortable with doing yourself, such as marking the perimeter of the affected area with warning signage. However, try not to do anything that feels unsafe. Water cleanup professionals near you should be able to assist or advise in more extreme situations.

Time To Act

After you have identified the problem and everything is cordoned appropriately, then it's time to take cleanup measures. Of course, this process differs depending on what type of water problem you have. It's important to remember that, although cleaning up all the water is a good first step, it's rarely the end of your moisture removal.

Situations requiring sewer cleanup in Johnson City, TN are potential losses for your company. The best way to mitigate those losses is usually to take immediate and appropriate action. Remember to identify the problem, secure the affected area and have all necessary cleanup measures performed. Once the immediate problems are out of the way, you can then focus on any communications or secondary cleaning that needs to be performed.
Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com  for more information on commercial water damage.

How to Handle Water Damage and Begin the Process of Restoration

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

How to Handle Water Damage and Begin the Process of Restoration

Unwanted water in a business settings can cause major damage. Flood water in the building is not only upsetting but can lead to emotional stress. Water in business settings may damage the structure and electronics that are crucial to the daily function of a company. Some common causes of water damage include flood damage, external factors causing a supply line break, stress or corrosion causing a pipe break, and hurricane or storm damage.

A flooded business is nothing to mess around with, as there may be dangers many people are unaware of. Issues like structural damage or live wires should be handled by professional water cleanup companies. Knowing how to handle the cleanup of water in a building can make the restoration process seem less daunting to flood victims and put them back in control.

Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on water damage.

Here’s what to Do In Case Of Commercial Fire Damage

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Here’s what to Do In Case Of Commercial Fire Damage

In your lifetime, you must have heard about, seen, or experienced a fire tragedy. Fire is usually accidental, apart from a few instances of arson, but once it hits a building, the outcome is enormous grief. When a fire hits a business premise, among the first persons you see are local firefighters. A firefighter responds quickly to the scene and he/she arrives with colleagues in a fire truck that contains the necessary equipment such as a fire hose to carry out the fire suppression.

Commercial fire damage can pull your business steps behind, and in order to avoid that, you need to call fire restoration experts as soon as possible. Commercial fire damage mostly results from electrical fires and with it; comes soot damage and smoke damage. The firefighters in their fire suppression efforts also cause water damage. The water comes from the fire hose, a long flexible tube that is part of the fire truck. The fire hose utilizes high pressure pumping to put out the fire.

As a result, the ordinary tools commonly used for janitorial services cannot handle a commercial fire damage. You need to call a fire restoration company to mitigate the fire damage. A professional fire restoration company has qualified and experienced personnel with the right equipment to handle any commercial fire damage incidence. These experts should be called not long after a fire suppression has been carried out to avoid further damage to your business premises.

Fire damage resulting from electrical fire can be very hectic to deal with especially if it is a utility room fire. Therefore, it is imperative for the fire restoration process to be handled appropriately. The firefighters are also adequately trained to carry out fire suppression processes in any setting regardless of whether it is a utility room fire or an electrical fire. The firefighters use fire trucks fitted with the appropriate equipment to put out any fire in a commercial property.

Apart from fire damage, the restoration company you call also has the capacity to trace the hidden damages such as smoke damage and soot damage. Failure to handle smoke and soot damage can shift the damages from primary to secondary. Once the smoke damages have reached a secondary level, they may result to the closure of your business.

The fire restoration experts advice those who own commercial properties to install a fire sprinkler system in their buildings. The fire sprinkler system can be quite effective especially if it’s a utility room fire. Just like a fire hose, the fire sprinkler system releases water under pressure to put off the fire within a room in the building. Therefore, the fire sprinkler system could save you from huge losses especially when a utility room fire strikes because most of the things stored in a utility room are of value to your business.

Fire damage incidences are caused by a number of factors, the most common being electrical fires. Regardless of the cause, the restoration company experts follow the same process to rid your premises off fire, soot, and smoke damage. This process entails six steps, and they are as follows.
• Emergency Contact: The first step involves you calling the professional experts to remedy the damages.
• Assessing the damages: The skilled experts inspect your commercial property to determine the extent of fire, smoke, and soot damage
• Boarding up and roof tarp service: When fire strikes your commercial property, the roof, walls, and windows are damaged. The professionals put in tarpaulin to prevent more damage.
• Removing and drying the water: In their fire suppression efforts, firefighters leave water from the fire truck that could cause further damage if not removed.
• Removal of smoke and soot: Fire tragedies leave behind soot and smoke damage and it is vital to remove the smoke and soot from all the surfaces.
• Deodorization. Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on fire damage.