Top Reasons to Hire SERVPRO for Holiday Cleaning

12/5/2022 (Permalink)

This year, let SERVPRO make your home ready to welcome guests with a smile.

During the holiday season, you may find yourself with a lot of house guests and a lot on your plate. In the rush of preparing for visitors, it’s easy to neglect the cleaning of certain areas in your home – including holiday decorating spaces! And when it comes to decorations, you want to make sure everything is clean and safe. Fire departments in the United States respond to an estimated average of 790 house structure blazes each year that is caused by decorations.

If you can use some extra help this year with all those out-of-towners, consider having a trusted cleaning company like SERVPRO of Deltona come by! Whether you want more help for a big clean-up project or just want some peace of mind knowing that your home is covered in case of an emergency, SERVPRO has got you covered.

Fast 24-Hour Service

Sometimes you need a little extra help with things around the house. That’s why SERVPRO of Deltona offers a fast 24-hour emergency cleaning service for any holiday clean-up or cleaning project that needs to be done in a hurry! Whether it is last-minute guests, an unexpected accident like a toilet overflow or something else entirely – SERVPRO’s experienced technicians can quickly get your home looking great again.

Highly Trained Team

Whether you’re looking to hire a professional cleaning company for daily, weekly, or monthly cleanings – SERVPRO of Deltona has the most highly trained technicians in the industry. Whether you need help with residential or commercial cleaning, they can get your place looking spotless in no time at all! Everyone is certified and bonded so that home will be left as good as new after every visit!

Advanced Technology

SERVPRO of Deltona is one of the only cleaning companies in West Volusia that has invested in professional-grade, commercial-grade equipment for every service. From carpet cleaning to mold remediation, SERVPRO technicians are trained to use the best equipment on the market. With advanced technology like this, you can rest assured that your home is in good hands!

Excellent Customer Reviews

SERVPRO of Deltona has a great reputation in the local community and is known for its excellent customer service. They have highly trained technicians, advanced equipment, and superior cleaning abilities that will leave your home looking fantastic! You can even find amazing before and after photos on the website to show you what a great job they do.

Locally Owned and Operated

SERVPRO of Deltona is a locally owned and operated business that understands the needs of the community. Top-quality service with a personal touch is what you can expect from SERVPRO. With a friendly staff and years of experience, this company is the right choice to keep your home in shape during the busy holiday season! 

Start your holiday cleaning with SERVPRO!

At SERVPRO, we understand that the holidays can be a busy time – and sometimes you need a little extra help to get everything done. This year, let SERVPRO make your home ready to welcome guests with a smile. If you find yourself in need of a holiday cleaning service, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Deltona!

Storage and Cleaning Tips for Christmas Decorations

12/5/2022 (Permalink)

Remember to always take good care of your decorations so that they can last for many more years to come!

The holidays are here, and it is the perfect time to decorate your home for Christmas. decorations can make most people happy, but with so many different types of ornaments, lights, garlands, and other decorations out there for you to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. It is important to not only consider how much space you'll need but also what type of storage will work best for your needs after the festive season is over. It can be a bit overwhelming if you don't have a plan in place for all of your Christmas decorations.

Here are some storage and cleaning tips that will help you get organized for this holiday season.

Choose the right storage area with the right temperature.

First, it is important to know how long your ornaments and lights will be stored before next year's Christmas so that you can choose the right storage area. If some of them are being saved from one year to the next then a cool dry place with low humidity would work best such as a closet, attic, or storage container.

Keep everything dry before storing to prevent molds.

If you are putting everything into storage, make sure that all the lights and ornaments are completely dry before you put them away. Wet items can cause molds to grow, and this will ruin your decorations very quickly. If you failed to store your decorations properly, call a reliable cleaning company that can help you clean your Christmas decorations.

Wrap up all the cords to keep them tangle-free.

Another way you can help to protect your Christmas decors for years is to wrap up all the cords. You can use an old bread bag or any type of cheap storage bag. This will help to keep them from getting tangled and ruined while in storage. It will be easier for you to use them again when they are not tangled.

Package each item separately.

When packing away any type of decoration, it is always best to package them individually. This will help to prevent them from getting damaged and it will be easier for you to find what you are looking for next year. Don't forget to label them!

Hire a cleaning service you can trust.

If you're short on time or just don't feel like dealing with the hassle of cleaning up your Christmas decorations, there is always the option to hire a professional cleaning service. This will take all the stress and work off your plate so that you can focus on enjoying the holidays. A cleaning company will ensure that all your Christmas decorations are properly cleaned and restored to their former glory.

Conclusion

Now, you have some storage ideas that will help make the process a lot easier for you this year. 

If you take your time and put some thought into it, next year's Christmas will be a breeze. Remember to always take good care of your decorations so that they can last for many more years to come!

Feng Shui House Tips for 2023

12/5/2022 (Permalink)

By following these simple feng shui tips, you can help create a positive environment for yourself and your family in 2023.

As the New Year comes in, it is advised to make the best out of the remaining time to prepare for a successful year ahead. Feng Shui plays a role when it comes to preparing your home and office space for the positive twelve months that will follow in 2022.

Feng Shui means Wind-Water. Feng shui is about optimizing your house's positive energy flow, which can help foster good fortune and happiness. Feng shui techniques are usually applied at the time of building new homes, but they can also be used on existing dwellings to improve their luck. 

Here are feng shui house tips you can apply in 2022.

Make sure the main door of your house is facing east or southeast.

When it comes to the main door of your house, it is best to have it facing either east or southeast. This will allow for the natural flow of energy (known as chi) to enter and exit your home with ease. If your main door faces any other direction, you can place a wind chime or fountain in front of it to help direct the energy in the right direction.

Create a balanced home environment.

A balanced home environment is key to having good feng shui. This means that you should strive to have an equal number of plants and water features as well as metal and earth elements in your house. When creating this balance, it is important to remember that too much of one element can be as bad as not having enough.

Keep your house free of clutter.

Clutter in your house can be problematic for feng shui, especially when it comes to the areas where you perform tasks at home. Hire a trusted name in a cleaning service like SERVPRO of Deltona to help keep your home clean and organized throughout the year. They are experts in residential and commercial cleaning so you can rest easy that your home is in good hands.

Make use of natural light and plants.

One of the best things about having good feng shui in your home is that it can help you relax. Having natural light and plants around can help make your home feel less cramped, allowing for a more comfortable environment to unwind after work.

Be mindful of mirror placement.

Mirrors can be helpful when it comes to feng shui, but only if they are used in the right way. Mirrors that are hung in the wrong direction can sometimes cause problems, so it is best to be mindful of where you place them. According to feng shui experts, here are some places where you can best place mirrors.

• wall perpendicular to the front door and not opposite it.
• in your dining room
• on walls that can reflect natural light, beautiful views, or gardens.

Conclusion

By following these simple feng shui tips, you can help create a positive environment for yourself and your family in 2023. If you need help with holiday cleaning to prepare your home now before the year ends, contact SERVPRO of Deltona for an expert cleaning service that will have your home looking good for the year to come.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mold

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

Mold is never wholly gone; it just goes dormant as invisible spores in your environment. If mold finds a combination of organic matter and moisture to

Mold Growth: Frequently Asked Questions

Mold may be disgusting and a danger to your home, but do you truly understand what mold is? Let’s take a look at a few frequently asked questions about mold, and what you can do to prevent its outbreak in your Volusia County home.

What Is Mold?

Mold is a fungus that can take root in your home and proliferate, causing unsightly stains and potential health effects. Once mold sinks in deep it can be hard to get rid of.

What Causes Mold to Grow?

Mold growth is primarily caused by excess moisture in your home environment. You can frequently find it in places in your home that have suffered water damage. Factors that contribute to mold growth include:

• High humidity environments
• Water damage from flooding or leaking
• Broken and damaged pipes
• Condensation from malfunctioning appliances

Is Mold Different from Mildew?

While both mold and mildew are fungal growths, they’re not the same thing. You can generally tell them apart by texture; where mildew tends to be soft and powdery and will flake off to the touch, mold tends to be a fuzzier growth with a thicker texture.

How Can I Get Rid of Mold?

Mold remediation is a complex process that begins with eliminating the source of the mold. This means identifying where your water damage is coming from and repairing your leaking roof or a broken appliance, or using a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air. Cleanup can require disposing of mold-infested items and scrubbing others with baking soda and vinegar or harsher chemical solutions.

Once the Mold Is Gone, Will It Come Back?

It can. Mold is never wholly gone; it just goes dormant as invisible spores in your environment. If mold finds a combination of organic matter and moisture to feed on, then it can take root again and begin to grow. It’s best to remain vigilant and continuously seek to eradicate mold sources from your environment.

The Best Cleaning Tips for Curtains and Blinds

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

Call for a drape cleaning service or hire a blinds cleaning company to save yourself the headache of a dirty home.

It’s not uncommon to find yourself with a pile of dirty draperies and blinds in your home. If you don't take the time to clean them, they can start to smell bad or attract dust mites. It's also important to consider cleaning them if you see mold in your ceiling or roof shingles.

What is the easiest way to clean drapes?

The easiest way to clean drapes is by hiring a drape cleaning service. Some drapes require dry cleaning, some may be machine-washed. If you are not sure of the type of drapes that you have it is best to call a professional cleaning service since they have all the right tools and equipment to get the job done. 

But before it gets too dirty, you need to have a plan on how to clean them yourself. First off, check the cleaning label of your drapes because it will tell you the right cleaning method to use. Next, make sure to vacuum your drapes weekly and use a damp cloth to wipe the dust and dirt off of them. If you spot any stains, clean them right away. This helps prevent dirt buildup that can be difficult to remove. 

What is the easiest way to clean blinds?

It's easy to forget about blinds until they start to look dirty. You can clean your blinds by using a lint roller or dusting them with a dry cloth. If you have blinds that are made of fabric, then it's best to use a damp cloth with mild soap and water to wipe the blinds down. You can also use white vinegar and a water mixture to clean any stains or stuck-on dirt.

If your blinds require a deep cleaning, you should consider hiring blinds cleaning company. This is to make sure that the blinds are properly cleaned and sanitized, as well as maintained. They have the equipment and the expertise to ensure that blinds are cleaned thoroughly without causing damage.

Just remember: prevention is the best way to keep blinds and drapes clean. To help prevent dust from accumulating, make sure you open your windows every day for several minutes. This will help get rid of all the dust and dirt that has gathered on your blinds, which you can then easily sweep up. This also allows sunlight to come into your home, which naturally kills dust mites.

Conclusion

Keeping blinds and drapes clean is a part of home maintenance that's often overlooked, but just as important to remember as cleaning the floors or dusting the blinds. After all, blinds and drapes not only add beauty to your home but also give you and your family the privacy you deserve. Call for a drape cleaning service or hire a blinds cleaning company to save yourself the headache of a dirty home.

Fastest and Easiest Way to Clean Your Carpets

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning your carpet is not a difficult task, but to clean it thoroughly, you will need to use the right equipment and tools.

The carpet is one of the dirtiest things in our homes. The dirt and dust on the floor start to accumulate on the carpet over time. If you don't clean it often enough, this will lead to an unpleasant smell and poor air quality for you and your family members. These particles are composed of chemicals and glues that are created with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which release odors and pollutants. On top of that, dirty carpets also promote mold growth. For this reason, it is important to clean your carpet every few months to keep it fresh and free from contaminants.

How do I clean my carpets myself?

Hiring a carpet cleaning service is the easiest and fastest way to clean your carpet. However, if you don't want to spend money on this service and want to try first to clean the carpet yourself, there are simple tips you can follow to keep your carpet clean.

First, vacuum the entire floor weekly with a strong vacuum cleaner using high suction power and a soft brush. This will clear all the dirt and dust from your carpet.

Second, get professional carpet cleaning products that you can buy in the store to clean the stains on your carpet.

Third, try a natural home remedy by mixing equal parts of vinegar and water with a few drops of dish soap. Apply the solution to your carpet and wait for a few minutes before wiping it off completely with water. This will not only remove stains but also reduce the odor of your carpet.

Lastly, do not wait until your carpet is completely dirty to clean it. Cleaning your carpets often will keep them free from dust, and dirt.

Is it worth it to get my carpet cleaned?

The best thing about hiring a professional carpet cleaning company is that they have the right equipment and tools to clean your carpet thoroughly. Their professional cleaners use a strong vacuum cleaner with rotating brushes, which clears all the dirt and dust particles from deep inside your carpet. Additionally, they have powerful detergents to remove stains quickly while using hot water extraction to clean your carpets.

Professional cleaners are also experienced in handling different kinds of carpets, which means they know how to clean carpets of different materials such as wool carpets. You can rest assured that your carpets won't get damaged and will be completely clean and fresh after the carpet cleaning service is over.

For these reasons, it is always worth it to hire a professional instead of trying to do the process yourself.

Conclusion

Cleaning your carpet is not a difficult task, but to clean it thoroughly, you will need to use the right equipment and tools. Hire a professional carpet cleaning company and let them clean your carpets thoroughly and professionally. You will save yourself a lot of time and effort knowing that your carpets are in good hands.

How to Fix and Overflowing Toilet

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

A toilet overflow can sometimes happen without any reason. It can be a minor issue that may not require the help of a water cleanup service.

Toilet overflow is a common problem that plagues many homeowners. To understand what's causing the issue, let's start with the basics of how toilets work. When you flush your toilet, water from your tank fills up and creates pressure to push waste out through the drainpipe. If too much waste gets flushed at once, or if there are any clogs in the pipes, then it can cause water to flow over into the bowl and fill up slowly into the brim. In worst-case scenarios, this can cause a mess all over your bathroom floor, especially during a storm. When this happens, a professional cleanup service would be necessary to remove all the water and dry out any possible damage. 

Why did my toilet overflow on its own?

In some cases, your toilet may overflow on its own. For no reason at all, a toilet overflow can happen even if not flushed. This could happen when there is extreme pressure from the water outside your tank, such as during a storm. If there is too much pressure in your pipes and no way for it to escape, then it can cause water to shoot out of your toilet and fill up the bowl. 

How can you fix a toilet overflow?

There are several ways to fix a toilet overflow which you can do on your own or with the help of a professional. 

Use a plunger.

In some cases, a water cleanup service may not be required if it is only a minor issue. A standard plunger can be used to try and clear the blockage. First, remove as much water from your toilet bowl until it is just a few inches deep. Put the plunger into the toilet and push it up and down a few times to create suction. This should clear the blockage and get rid of any water in your bowl.

Use a toilet auger or a toilet snake.

A toilet auger, sometimes called a toilet snake, is a long, flexible cable that is inserted into the toilet to push through any blockages. These can be purchased from most hardware stores and are relatively inexpensive. Place the hook end of the toilet auger into the toilet bowl and push through to try and clear any blockages. 

Contact an emergency plumber.

If your toilet overflow is severe, then you may need the help of a professional to fix it. This will be especially true if there are any damages to your toilet such as cracks or leaks. Contacting an emergency plumber will save you time and money in the long run. A professional can have your toilet fixed quickly and efficiently, ensuring that any damages are repaired to prevent future problems.

Conclusion

A toilet overflow can sometimes happen without any reason. It can be a minor issue that may not require the help of a water cleanup service, but you should still have it checked just in case there are underlying issues to prevent further problems in the future.

How To Get Rid of Mold in Your House

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

You can count on our expertise in house mold removal and get assurance that it won’t be happening in the future.

Black mold can be a nasty, dangerous, and persistent problem for homeowners. It can spread quickly throughout your house and it's tough to get rid of without the proper tools for house mold removal. Moreover, it can easily affect the health of the people living in the house. In 2004, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) concluded that there was enough evidence to associate indoor mold exposure with health effects in otherwise healthy individuals.

Black mold is very dangerous and the sooner you get rid of it, the better. Follow these expert tips to prevent further damage to your house.

Remove any mold from the carpet.

Many people think that mold only grows on surfaces, but this isn't true. It can spread under your carpet and damage it as well. If you find any signs of black mold underneath your carpet, take off all the flooring to check every inch for further signs of growth. This way you will prevent unnecessary damage to your house later. While doing this, make sure to put on protective gear like gloves, goggles, etc.

Seal the damaged spot from the rest of the house.

If there are cracks or holes in between where mold can grow, cover everything with plastic sheeting. Make sure no air gets inside while you're applying this method because black mold will spread quickly if conditions are right.

Open up moldy walls and ceilings.

If you're going to open up a wall or ceiling, make sure that the space is well-ventilated. If not, there's a risk mold may grow back since it thrives in small spaces with low oxygen levels. Remove any wet insulation around water damage and use fans as much as possible. Don't allow moisture from your home to get in contact with the moldy area.

All moldy items should be placed in a bag.

Put all moldy items in a plastic bag and seal them tightly. This way you will prevent the spread of black mold to other parts of your house, especially if there are still signs that this problem has not been completely resolved yet.

Thoroughly scrub, clean, and repair affected areas.

When you're done, make sure to clean and scrub all affected areas. After doing this, fix any damaged surfaces if necessary, and don't forget about cracks or holes where mold can still grow.

Moldy areas should be resealed after they've had a chance to dry.

When you're done cleaning and repairing, make sure to reseal the affected areas. This will prevent the possible return of mold by keeping your house well-ventilated and dry at all times.

Schedule a mold removal service!

Controlling dampness is the most effective approach to prevent mold. The important thing is to be careful and follow every step carefully if there's a risk that black mold may grow back in certain parts of your house. If you're not sure how to properly get rid of black mold, consider hiring a professional mold removal service. You can count on our expertise in house mold removal and get assurance that it won’t be happening in the future.

How To Get Rid of Mold on Your Ceiling

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

If you are not sure how to clean roof and ceiling mold, you should contact a professional.

Mold can grow in your home either indoors or outdoors, some are even hidden in areas you don’t expect. When it grows on your ceiling or roof shingles, it can cause serious damage. So, when this happens, you should hire a mold removal service as soon as it is discovered. The longer you wait, the more damage it can cause. You also need to be careful to use the right tools when doing house mold removal on your roof and ceiling. Otherwise, you can risk making the roof more susceptible to damage.

How to clean mold off the ceiling?

One of the first things you need to do when you are trying to clean roof mold from your ceiling is to find out if it is a type of black mold or a different type of mold. The reason for this is that not all molds can be cleaned off surfaces without causing damage to those surfaces. Black mold is one of the mold types that can cause damage to the surface, so you need to be careful when cleaning it off the ceiling or roof shingles.

Most types of molds can be removed with hot water and soap mix. You need to spray it on the mold and let it sit for several minutes. When you come back, you need to scrub the mold off with a brush. You can buy a brush made specifically for scrubbing off roof mold at your local home improvement store. Then, you should spray the surface with the soap and water solution again and rinse it off with a hose. This process, however, cannot kill the spores. Hiring a professional to do the house mold removal will ensure that the spores are totally removed.

How to remove mold from roof shingles?

If you have mold on your roof shingles, the first thing you need to do is make sure that there is as much air as possible moving through the roof, so the mold does not grow any further. The easiest way to do this is to remove the moldy shingles and replace them with new ones. After the moldy shingles are replaced, you should make sure that any air moving through the roof has a way to leave the roof, so the mold does not grow back.

The next thing you need to do is find a way to prevent any future growth of mold on the roof. To do this, you need to have a fast and efficient cleaning system for your roof. Having a good quality gutter system will also help you to keep mold from growing on your roof.

Conclusion

If you are not sure how to clean roof and ceiling mold, you should contact a professional. Schedule a mold removal service appointment to ensure you receive expert roof and ceiling mold removal.

Secondary Damage After Water Damage

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

Secondary damage was caused by water damage in a Deltona, FL home.

Secondary Damage After Water Damage

Water damage is never good. Although it's possible to mitigate some of the effects, if water has gone undetected for too long then there may be more damage than you can handle on your own. That's why we always recommend calling in an expert if you have any doubt about the severity of a water intrusion -- or even if you don't!

What is secondary damage? 

Secondary damage is the damage that happens to a Deltona, FL property once its owner has left it after a major water or fire event. It can happen right after a water intrusion occurs, and it’s usually caused by neglect, weather, or even crime.

It’s important to know about secondary damage because this type of damage is often not covered by insurance policies and must be paid for out-of-pocket by homeowners. That means that if you don't protect your property from secondary damages, you could face financial loss even if you aren't at fault for any of the incidents that led up to them.

The first phase of water damage is generally the most intense, but secondary damage can be more insidious and problematic in the long run. Secondary damage includes structural problems that may not show up until much later, such as warping or mold growth. These issues are harder to identify than immediate damages that occur during an initial flood event.

Black Mold

When you have a water intrusion in your home and it is not addressed quickly, there are several changes that can take place in the environment. The first change that happens has to do with humidity levels. When a water intrusion occurs, there will be excess moisture in the air. This excess moisture causes mold growth to occur at an accelerated rate compared to normal circumstances. If this excess moisture is not removed from your home within 24 hours, mildew and mold growth may begin as well as damage to certain items like books, clothing and other materials made out of paper or wood pulp products (such as cardboard boxes).

A good example of secondary damage can be found in the form of black mold. This type of secondary damage is notoriously difficult to remove, and it can grow in dark and undisturbed places. Black mold is a sign that there is a larger problem at hand—whether this means moisture intrusion or some other issue.

Black mold thrives in dark and undisturbed areas. It can be found behind drywall, inside HVAC systems or ductwork, or even in an old box of clothes you've been holding onto for years. Black mold is considered the most toxic type of mold because it produces mycotoxins that are harmful to your health.

Mold spores are everywhere and once they find a place to grow, they produce more spores and spread quickly throughout your home. Mold doesn't need much water -- just enough moisture to support its growth and reproduction cycle. That's why it's important to keep things as clean as possible so that if there is any moisture present (like when you're taking a shower), it doesn't sit long enough for the spores to grow into colonies large enough to cause damage and release toxins into your environment.

As you can see, secondary damage can be detrimental to your home's value and should be addressed as soon as possible.

Secondary damage is a serious concern, especially if it's not addressed quickly. If you suspect that your Deltona home may be experiencing secondary damage from a flood or fire, we urge you to call SERVPRO of Deltona North as soon as possible we will make it look " Like it never even happened".

Content Cleaning And Fire Damage

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

The best way to clean your home after fire damage is to call SERVPRO of Deltona North

Content Cleaning And Fire Damage

Smoke and Soot Damage on Your Things

Smoke and soot damage is more than just a smell. It can leave behind a residue that can stain and discolor your possessions. When left untreated, smoke and soot can cause permanent damage to your belongings. Contents Restoration involves the restoration of your personal belongings damaged by smoke, fire, or water.

SERVPRO of Deltona North provides complete contents cleaning for homes, businesses, schools, and other structures that have sustained fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO has over 1,700 Franchises across the U.S. that are ready to respond 24 hours a day with cost-effective emergency services.

Dry Cleaning Can Remove Odor and Stains

Dry cleaning is not a true cleaning method. It is used to remove stains and odors from fabrics, clothing, upholstery, and other materials. To clean with dry cleaning the surface must be free of oils and dirt, or it will not work properly.

Dry cleaning often works when surface cleaning does not work. If a high pH chemical cleaner has been applied to the item, it cannot be dry cleaned. If there is still a strong smoky odor in the item after cleaning, dry cleaning may remove it. It will take longer to get the items back (1 week).

Dry cleaning involves applying a chemical solvent to the fabric that penetrates into the fabric and removes soil. A solvent such as perchloroethylene (PERC) is then used as a carrier for the chemical solvent into which it dissolves oils/dirt on contact with them - carrying them away from the item being cleaned. After this process has been completed it usually requires air drying before use again because PERC can leave behind an oily film on some fabrics if not removed completely during drying - especially in humid areas such as Florida!

Ultrasonic Cleaning for Non-porous Items

Ultrasonic cleaning is a gentle, non-abrasive way to clean non-porous items. It uses water and detergent to remove smoke odor from non-porous items.

Ultrasonic cleaning uses sound waves to create microscopic bubbles in a cleaning solution that simultaneously penetrates crevices and loosens dirt particles. The force of these bubbles mechanically cleans the surface while they break down grime and residue as they bounce away. This ensures thorough cleaning while also being gentle on your belongings.

The solution combines water with an appropriate solvent base. A probe is introduced into the solution where it creates microscopic bubbles that boost surface tension at the point of contact between the probe and the surface being cleaned. This creates enough energy to dislodge dirt particles without damaging any delicate surfaces. The combination of moisture in the air and these tiny bubbles lifts grime off hard surfaces without requiring scouring or scrubbing them down with brushes or cloths that could scratch delicate objects like porcelain figurines or glassware pieces.

The best way to clean your home or business after fire damage is to call SERVPRO of Deltona North. We will come out and help you get back on track with the clean-up process.

Water Damage Restoration and Cleanup Checklist

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

The sooner you get a water damage restoration project underway, the sooner you can get your home back to normal.

Water damage can strike at any time, and it can leave behind an impact that lasts for weeks, months, or even years. From sewage backups to heavy rainstorms, there are many causes of water damage in your home. Fortunately, you can prevent these issues from occurring again. Immediately call for a water damage restoration near me and follow this checklist once you discover that your house has water damage.

Confirm the source of the water damage

The first step in any water damage restoration project is to confirm the source of the damage. Is it a leak, storm damage, or another cause entirely? Once you know the cause of the damage, you can head into the project with a more effective strategy. Be sure to call a SERVPRO near me so they can begin the water damage restoration process as soon as possible.

Dry out the water and remove standing water.

Water left standing in areas of your home that are prone to excess moisture will cause damage over time. If you have flood or water damage in your home, the first step is to dry out the area and remove standing water. 

Call for a water damage restoration service.

If water has damaged your home and you have absolutely no idea where to start, call a water damage restoration near me as soon as possible. The professionals who arrive will use a combination of drying equipment and cleaning products to remove the water and get your home back to normal. Depending on your situation, there may be some preliminary work you can do to help speed up the process. 

Inspect electrical equipment and appliances

Before the restoration crew arrives, be sure to turn off electrical outlets, unplug electrical cords, and close faucets to prevent any other water from entering the house. It's important to stay alert for electrical hazards especially if your home is flooded. If your home has experienced flooding, call for an electrician to inspect all your electrical appliances that have been affected before you turn on or plug them back.

Stay alert for signs of future moisture issues.

Even after the restoration crew has finished with your water damage repair, it’s important to stay alert for signs of future moisture issues. You should regularly inspect your roof, foundation, and any other areas that are prone to excess moisture. Look for signs of damage, such as cracked tiles or tiles lifted off the roof. If you find signs of damage, consult a professional immediately. They may be able to patch up the issue before it becomes a larger issue. 

Conclusion

The sooner you get a water damage restoration project underway, the sooner you can get your home back to normal. Contact a SERVPRO near me right away so they can help you navigate the process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible. And be sure to follow this checklist to ensure that you have taken all the necessary steps in the aftermath of a water damage event.

Storm Shutters: A Good Investment and its Benefits

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Storm shutters can be a great help to lessen the effect of storms.

It is crucial to take the necessary preparations if you reside in a region that is vulnerable to hurricanes, tornadoes, or other severe storms. Storm shutters add an additional layer of defense against wind and water harm. Do you need to buy storm shutters or just contact a storm restoration company to conduct a storm damage cleanup?

USES OF STORM SHUTTERS

To put it simply, window shutters shield your house from extra wind and water damage during storms. This can’t be eliminated and you might need help from a storm restoration company, but shutters can lessen the chance of glass windows breaking and flying into your house during strong winds.

What precisely are the various storm shutter types? You have a variety of storm shutter options, depending on where you reside and how your home was built. Wood, fiberglass, metal, and even a robust and water-resistant cloth are all options for hurricane shutters. Some shutters roll down and lock like cabinet doors, while others close and tighten like an accordion.

ADVANTAGES OF BUYING STORM SHUTTERS

So, the big question is: Should you spend money on storm shutters?

Shutters are a great purchase, especially if you live near the seaside, for the following reasons.

1. The risk of damage from flying glass or other debris is reduced by shutters.
2. They lessen the overall damage that any kind of storm causes.
3. In order to protect your home from potential floods, hurricane shutters are an additional measure.
4. They raise your home's total resale value.
5. They reduce the cost of repairs, particularly if your home's insurance does not cover damage from hurricanes.

Investing in hurricane shutters only makes sense if you choose a reputable brand that offers protection.

Although the initial cost may seem high, keep in mind that you will probably save money on home maintenance. You might always opt to seek assistance from a storm damage cleanup company.

Finally, compare the cost of storm shutters to your homeowners insurance. After that, decide based on your own requirements.

ADDITIONAL MEANS OF PREVENTING STORM DAMAGE TO YOUR HOME

There are other ways besides storm shutters to keep your house from being destroyed by a storm. If you are aware that a storm is approaching, you should take the following safety measures.

1. For insurance purposes, take photos of your house before and after the storm.
2. Place priceless goods in a waterproof safe.
3. Use tarps to shield electronics and furnishings.
4. Secure outdoor furniture with bolts to prevent wind from blowing it into your home.
5. Electronics should be unplugged to avoid power outages.
6. Sealing door frames will help reduce flooding.

In conclusion

Storm shutters can be a great help to lessen the effect of storms but emergency responders strongly advise against keeping your storm shutters closed throughout the entire year.

Only when a storm is imminent should they close. In the event of an emergency, exercise caution. Your decision to keep your hurricane shutters closed has a negative impact on emergency efforts and operations.

The Storm is Over: Here's How to Jumpstart Your Commercial Restoration

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

You can rely on SERVPRO to take care of everything while you focus on what matters most.

It also helps to consider what you can do next to get your commercial property back in order once you've taken all the required precautions and the storm has passed.

Anyone who experiences major storm damage may feel overwhelmed and as though their world has been flipped upside down. And it's acceptable to feel this way given that you have to work on resuming your life and kick-starting your property rehabilitation and have a commercial storm damage cleanup.

Knowing what to do after a storm has hit your commercial place is helpful since it can help you organize your storm cleanup. You can prevent further damage to your family, possessions, and hard-earned money by using this knowledge and having a strategy in place. In the end, it can assist you in getting your life and possessions back as quickly as feasible.

To that end, here are four suggestions that should make managing storm damage cleanup and restoration at least a little bit easier for you:

#1 Always prioritize your safety

No matter how many hurricanes, floods, or thunderstorms you've survived, it's always important to prioritize your safety.

If you had to leave your commercial place prior to the storm, it could be wiser to remain at an emergency shelter, a hotel, or with friends or family. A simple approach to keep yourself and your loved ones safe is to have your examined for risks before you return.

Even if you didn't have to leave, you should check to make sure it's safe to go outside again before you begin looking for damage. There may also be adjacent risks including slick spots, broken glass, exposed electrical wires, and damaged gas lines.

#2 Document storm damage

The following are some typical storm damages to watch out for:

• Leaky roofs, missing or broken shingles, split seams, and dents in the gutters
• Exterior sliding that is harmed or missing
• Window cracks, shattered glass and frames, and smashed doors
• Outdoor equipment that is faulty or damaged, such as air conditioners
• Flooding in the cellar
• Electrical shorts that cause fires or water getting into outlets

If you have any of these on your property, make sure to take pictures of everything before moving or removing them. To assist your insurance carrier in determining the extent of the loss, all damages must be properly documented. It can also speed up the process to take pictures from various perspectives and include images of your property before it was damaged, which brings us to our next point.

#3 Call you Insurance Company

Once your photos are prepared, you can contact your insurance company to begin the commercial storm damage cleanup and restoration process by reaching out to SERVPRO near me.

A representative will respond to your questions, outline the coverage provided by your policy, and dispatch a claims adjuster to assess the property damage.

Once you've gotten in touch with your provider, continuing to communicate with them until your claim is settled might give you one less thing to stress about while working on your restoration.

#4 Contact a Professional Storm Cleanup and Restoration Teams

To prevent further issues, you can take care of the smaller fixes, but it's important to bear in mind that specialists should still be called in to handle storm damage cleanup and restoration.

Looking up, SERVPRO near me will help if you're looking for a nearby team who provides storm cleanup and restoration 24/7.

You can rely on SERVPRO to take care of everything while you focus on what matters most during this difficult time thanks to our commitment to professional restoration solutions and client satisfaction. Call us right away if you need assistance.

Filing Insurance Claims of Business Damaged by Storm: How to do it?

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Interested in emergency storm damage restoration? SERVPRO of West Volusia is nearby to help you, no matter how big or small the job, we’re here 24/7!

Is your business damaged or disrupted by a storm, fire, or other insured calamity? 

Dealing with the aftermath of a storm is likely to put your business under extreme stress, which may be difficult to manage without the help of a professional team to make the commercial storm damage cleanup.

Your insurance provider will either send you a proof of loss form to fill out yourself or set up an appointment for an insurance adjuster to evaluate the site and walk you through the claims procedure after you report a claim.

Adjusters are professionally qualified and licensed to assess damage, and different sorts of claims may necessitate the expertise of different claims adjusters, so you may be assigned to more than one adjuster.

You might have a claims professional examine structural damage and a content specialist assist with personal property loss, for example. There may also be a different claims adjuster if you have flood insurance or separate wind damage coverage through a state-run insurance pool.

The adjuster (or adjusters) will analyze the facts and your policy to assess coverage, and you will be asked to acquire repair estimates as part of the claims process. The more detail you can provide regarding the damage, the faster your claim will be resolved.

The six stages below will assist you in preparing for the claims process:

1. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

If you've evacuated or are unable to reside in your home, make sure your insurance provider knows how to contact you. To begin the claims procedure, customers can contact their insurer by phone, Internet, or mobile app. If available, include your insurance number, loss location, cell phone number, and backup contacts. If at all feasible, try to meet the claims adjuster at your home or place of business, assuming it is safe to do so.

2. Make any necessary immediate repairs and lock up your home.

Take actions to safeguard your property, prevent further damage, and shorten the time it may take to restore it even before the adjuster comes, such as making acceptable interim repairs to avoid further damage and securing features such as windows, doors, and roofs as needed.

Before planning for a commercial storm damage cleanup, the insurance agent should first see the damage, don't make any unneeded repairs to the property because it may cause more damage or harm to you or your family. 

3. Gather important business documents.

Gather any relevant business records you'll need to substantiate the value of any damaged equipment, inventory, or structures you're including in your commercial insurance claim.

You'll need proof of income the business was generating both before and after the interruption began for business income (also known as business interruption) claims, so gather all of your financial documents, including tax returns, monthly sales tax returns, business contracts, budgets, financial statements, and other documents relevant to calculating the projected income of your business.

The amount of lost business income can then be calculated in collaboration with your insurance.

4. Keep track of all the costs associated with protecting or repairing your business. If your company is forced to close, you will need to submit information on the cost of operating from a temporary site, accurate records of business activities, and a list of expenses that have persisted while your company has been suspended, such as advertising, utilities, and so on. Loss or damage to automobiles, vans, trucks, or specialized vehicles that could jeopardize your ability to conduct business should also be reported.

5. Photograph any debris or destroyed things, and check with your insurance company to see if the debris may be removed.

In general, you should hold off on throwing away any damaged things until the claims adjuster arrives. If you must dispose of some goods, notify your insurance company and photograph or record the damage before discarding the items. Many insurers now accept photographic evidence via the internet.

If you are allowed to remove any debris, you may need a professional team to help you with this, you might want to reach out to the nearest team to start the storm damage restoration of your home or business place.

6. Be organized.

Keep the insurance claim number, adjuster and other insurance company contact information, images of the damage, receipts, repair bills, and estimates. Keep all of your papers organized so you can quickly refer to it if you have any queries.

You can verify the progress of your claim with your insurer by phone or online once you've reported it. You can view claim information, register for direct deposit of qualified claim payments on qualified losses, submit documents, and communicate with your claims adjuster via an online account.

Conclusion

The financial protection you've acquired may come to depend on the survival of the firm you've worked so hard to develop, which is why getting business insurance properly is so vital and so is finding the right company to help you with storm damage restoration.

Glad we have SERVPRO of West Volusia nearby to help you, get in touch immediately through our contact, no matter how big or small the job may be, we’re here 24/7!

5 Causes of Fires in Commercial Buildings and How to Prevent Them

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

It’s important to act fast when there’s a fire on a commercial property. Call for commercial fire damage restoration to prevent further damage.

All types of businesses are susceptible to fire hazards. Whether you operate from a small office space, have employees who come into work daily, or have special processes that involve chemicals and flammable liquids, your workplace is at risk of catching on fire. These fires may be minor, or they may be so large they result in serious injury or death. It’s important that you understand the top causes of these types of fires so you can take precautions against them before they happen.

Unattended Equipment

While people may not intend to leave a piece of equipment on without supervision, it happens. Industrial fans, manufacturing machines, and power tools are examples of equipment that often starts fires when left unattended. Other times, fires also start when people are using equipment incorrectly and spark a nearby combustible material.

Faulty Electrical Equipment

Faulty wiring, bad connections, and loose appliances are all common causes of electrical fires. To reduce the risk of electrical fires, make sure to have them checked and serviced regularly. 

Poor Working Conditions and Poor Maintenance of Equipment and Facilities

Poor working conditions often result from not following proper safety procedures or from employees not taking the proper precautions. Poor maintenance of equipment and facilities, such as haphazard cleaning and poor housekeeping, is another common cause of commercial fires.

Incorrect Storage of Materials

Incorrect storage can often lead to small fires that you may not even be aware of. However, these small fires can quickly turn into large blazes if left unchecked. To reduce the risk of commercial fires caused by incorrect storage of materials, make sure to store combustible materials away from heat sources.

Employees Smoking in Prohibited Areas

It may seem like no big deal to sneak a smoke in a storage room, but it can quickly turn into a disaster. If the smoking materials ignite a flammable material, you could have a major fire on your hands. Make sure that you have a zero-tolerance policy against smoking in prohibited areas in your building.

What to do if your building catches fire?

It’s important to act fast when there’s a fire on a commercial property. Look for fire damage restoration companies near me so commercial fire damage restoration will be accomplished as soon as possible. When disaster happens, it is best to leave it to professionals.

Conclusion

Fire can destroy a building and everything in it in a matter of minutes. To protect your business, you should be aware of the common causes of fires and take precautions against them. The next time you find yourself in a commercial building, keep an eye out for faulty wiring, dusty ducts, and flammable materials. Moreover, make sure your building follows all codes and standards set by the National Fire Protection Association. Nevertheless, if you encounter fire in your building, call for a commercial fire damage restoration as soon as possible. Make sure to look for fire damage restoration companies near me to find the closest cleanup and restoration professional in your area.

Here Are The Top 3 Effects of Mold in a Commercial Building

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Mold is a major contributor to the decomposition of a building and, if left untreated, can cause heavy damage to a commercial property.

Mold is a major contributor to the decomposition of a building and, if left untreated, can cause heavy damage to a commercial property in Volusia County. It does not take much for fungus to thrive and begin consuming the natural construction materials that compose the building. Favorable materials for fungus include:

• Drywall
• Concrete
• Insulation
• Wood

Your HVAC system can contribute to the spread of these harmful airborne particles if it is not routinely inspected and serviced. HVAC cleaning includes removing dirt and grime from the condenser unit and dust from air ducts. Here are three effects of mold on the natural construction materials of a building:

1. Rotting Wood
Mold functions as a cleaning agent for the wild by decomposing rotting substances. Your commercial building provides it the necessary nutrients to survive. Paired with a humid and dark environment, the wooden structure will give mold spores an opportunity to grow into colonies.

2. Mildew Odor
Mold spores will travel through your HVAC system and circulate into the rooms. They can also feed off the dust accumulated in the air ducts. When mold grows inside of the ducts, a musty smell will spread throughout the building every time the system turns on. HVAC cleaning is a preventative measure that should be added to the routine maintenance plans of your commercial building. This will decrease the number of mold spores that circulate, lessening the chances of a greater fungus problem.

3. Decomposition of Drywall
Drywall is another source of nutrition for mold. It is especially attractive for fungus because it provides a dark environment. If water from leaks or humidity dampens the drywall, it will meet all the criteria for it to grow. The problem may go unnoticed until it develops on the surface of the wall. In this case, the drywall is irreparable and must be replaced.
A mold problem can be avoided by hiring a professional HVAC cleaning service to improve the air quality of your commercial building. Frequently cleaning vents and using good air filters will also decrease the chances of microbial growth.

3 Helpful Tips Regarding Smoke Alarms

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

The number of smoke detectors needed in your house depends on how large it is. Each floor should have at least one alarm.

While it is a small device that you likely think little about, the smoke alarm is an important part of every Volusia County home. It can alert you to a fire in time to prevent serious damage or allow you to safely leave the building in the event of a serious blaze. There are a few important pieces of information that you should know about this useful item.

1. How Many Alarms Do You Need?
The number of smoke detectors needed in your house depends on how large it is. Each floor should have at least one alarm. Also, make sure that there is an alarm in each individual bedroom as well as one outside of each sleeping area. If you have a basement or attic, these should have their own alarms as well.

2. How Should You Maintain Them?
Keeping your alarms in working condition can help prevent the need for fire damage remediation and serious repairs by quickly making you aware of a conflagration. Every smoke alarm should be tested at least monthly to ensure it is functioning properly. Dust and debris should be removed to prevent the sensors from malfunctioning. Most alarms will need to be replaced at least every 10 years.

3. How Often Should You Change the Batteries?
Depending on the type of smoke detector you have, this varies. Devices that use traditional 9-volt batteries need to have them replaced every six to 12 months. This includes hardwired alarms that use batteries as a backup in case of a power outage. If your alarm uses a lithium battery, this does not need to be replaced.
Having a smoke alarm in each area of your home as well as properly maintaining them is a vital way to help keep you and your family safe if you experience a fire. Test them regularly and change the batteries often to keep these useful little devices ready in case of an emergency.

What Your Adjuster Needs Form You After A Flood

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Ensuring that your adjuster has the right information may help your insurance company settle your claim and get your home back to normal more quickly.

As a homeowner, you do not plan for your home in Volusia County to flood, but if it does, it is important to know the critical first steps to take. Your home adjuster is tasked with assessing the damage, and there are a few key things you can document to assist with the analysis:

• Written list of all that is damaged or destroyed
• Cost to repair or replace damaged items
• Pictures of the damage
• Estimate from restoration specialists

Structural Damage

If there is visible damage to the house itself, you need to make note of it. Make a list of every wall that has signs of water damage.Check your floor for warping or missing tiles. If there are cracks in your walls or in your foundation, put that on the list as well. Take pictures of everything you write down to back up your statements. It is advisable to contact professional water damage restoration technicians to get an estimate in writing of how much the repairs to your home are going to cost to give to your home adjuster.

Destroyed Possessions

The insurance claim you file is likely to include damaged items in your home. Make an inventory of everything that needs to be replaced as a result of the flooding. Beside each item, list when you purchased it and approximately how much it would cost to replace it. Keep the damaged items and take digital pictures so you can print them out or email them.

Once you have compiled an inventory of the damage to your home for your insurance claim, make a copy for your records before you hand it off to the home adjuster. That way, if there is a discrepancy between what the adjuster finds and what your records show, you have your own proof. Ensuring that you and the adjuster have the same information may help your insurance company settle your claim and get your home back to normal more quickly.

Tips On How To Prevent Mold In Your Building

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

A critical part of preventing mold from overtaking your building's internal spaces involves addressing potential leak sources.

Excess moisture can lead to a mold formation at your building in Volusia County Although mold exists inside all buildings, routine measures, including air duct and carpet cleaning and periodic structure assessments, can keep mold spores from spreading and causing mold problems.

Schedule Inspections
A critical part of preventing mold from overtaking your building's internal spaces involves addressing potential leak sources, including:

• A damaged roof
• A faulty HVAC unit
• A stressed plumbing system
• An insufficient door or window seal

Scheduling building inspections can lead to repairs that ensure excess water does not enter your building.

Monitor Moisture Levels
If your building is situated in a high humidity region, tracking humidity levels is vital in preventing mold problems. Relying on well-maintained dehumidification systems is one of the best ways to control moisture levels and prevent conditions leading to mold growth.

Give Carpets Attention
Working with your building's maintenance staff to keep high traffic areas clean is necessary to keep mold spores from spreading throughout your building. Daily carpet cleaning with a HEPA vacuum can extract microscopic spores from carpet fibers vulnerable to moisture retention after repeated contact with wet shoes. Entry mats strategically placed near doorways can contribute to keeping carpets dry and preventing mold problems.

Replace Old Systems and Parts
If your building is old with a complex plumbing system, you should schedule routine plumbing inspections and replace old pipes at risk of bursting. Faulty plumbing can cause gallons of water to pour into your building's interior, where it can saturate furnishings, equipment, and spaces within walls and ceilings. Professional water extraction services can dry out your building's interior, but this may not be enough to prevent costly building repairs from mold damage.

Invisible mold spores can be challenging to detect in your commercial building, but keeping them from spreading uncontrollably through system maintenance, carpet cleaning, humidity monitoring, and other measures, can ensure your building's healthy and clean environment.

Why Hire SERVPRO of West Volusia County?

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, find a SERVPRO near me so we can respond to your call right away.

If you live in an area where there is a risk of a disaster, it is important to have immediate access to help. When disaster strikes, it's important to not just get to safety, but also know who to call for help when it is time to go back to your property. Proper cleanup and restoration are crucial to moving forward after a disaster. In this post we explain why hiring SERVPRO of West Volusia County is the best choice for all your cleaning and restoration needs.

Our team of technicians is highly trained and experienced in a variety of restoration services.

They’re ready to help you with any cleaning or restoration needs you might have. We use advanced cleaning techniques in mold remediation or fire and water damage repair. So, whether you need cleanup and restoration after a fire or storm, we have the equipment and expertise to do it for you. 

You will be covered by our 24/7 emergency service.

We will work around your schedule so you can count on us to be flexible and available to help you whenever you need it. We are faster to any disaster, and we can guarantee that SERVPRO of West Volusia County will respond to your call and help you right away. Just look for SERV pro near me to find the nearest technician in your area.

We are locally owned and operated.

SERVPRO is a locally owned and operated company that can guarantee local expertise, unlike any other company. You can expect a quick response from us as soon as you contact a SERV pro near me. We have been serving West Volusia County for over 34 years and we remain active members of the community. Below is a list of local communities we are proud to serve:

• Deltona, FL
• De Land, FL
• Debary, FL
• Orange City, FL
• Lake Helen, FL
• Seville, FL
• Pierson, FL
• De Leon Springs, FL
• Barberville, FL
• North Deland, FL

We serve residential and commercial properties. 

Aside from residential services, we offer cleaning and restoration services for commercial properties. Our commercial services include:

• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup
• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Disaster Recovery Team
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Cleaning Services

We can help with insurance paperwork and process.

If you're not familiar with the insurance claims process, you may feel overwhelmed and frustrated. Dealing with insurance after a disaster requires a lot of documentation and paperwork. Find a SERVPRO near me so we can help you manage the paperwork and process involved in insurance claims.

Conclusion

As a homeowner in any market, it is difficult to predict whether your home or business will be the next victim of a disaster. Our homes and businesses are our largest investment, but they are also our biggest source of vulnerability. Hiring a SERVPRO near me can help you reduce this vulnerability. When a disaster strikes, the loss of property can be devastating. But with a plan and the right professionals, it does not have to be.

Why Hire SERVPRO? We Do the Job Right!

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

Just look for a SERVPRO near me so we can help you navigate any type of disaster as soon as possible.

When you need help fast, it might seem like any company that offers disaster cleanup services will do. However, not all companies are created equal. The needs of your home or business after a disaster may be different than you think. That’s why it’s important to know what to look for in a cleanup service and why hiring the right one can make a world of difference. 

SERVPRO is one of the most reliable cleanups and restoration companies in Florida that can guarantee to do the job right the first time. Before you search for a SERV pro near me to book an appointment, read on to learn why you should hire SERVPRO for your cleanup and restoration needs.

Trust Is the Key When Hiring a Cleanup Service

Just like any business relationship, trust is essential. You want to be confident that the contractors you hire have your best interests at heart and can deliver consistent results. That starts with an honest and accurate assessment of your needs, a thorough understanding of your property, and clear communication of what you can expect from the cleanup or repair process. Once you contact a SERV pro near me, you can expect upfront and honest communication about the work that needs to be done, the time frame required to get it done, and the cost of each service. We believe in providing consistent and reliable service and are committed to treating you with the respect and courtesy you deserve.

What You Can Expect from Us

When choosing a contractor, it’s important to understand the full scope of services they provide. Here are some of the qualities we can guarantee if you hire us.

Excellent Company Reputation

SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry and has been serving Volusia County for over 34 years! Our many years in the industry and our commitment to our customers have made SERVPRO a trusted name in cleanup and restoration.

24-Hour Emergency Service

Whether you need a fire damage restoration at dawn or a mold remediation service late in the evening, just look for a SERVPRO near me and we will get the job done.

Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

We use advanced cleaning and restoration equipment with efficient features to ensure deeper and spotless cleaning.

Our Services Go Beyond Just Cleaning Up After a Disaster

We are committed to helping our clients reduce the stress of the situation. SERVPRO professionals are also knowledgeable about insurance claims so they can help you with how you can document the damage to your property so you will have a smooth process when it’s time to work on your insurance claims.

Bottom line

Getting the job done right after a disaster is crucial so you can put things back into order as soon as possible. Recovering from a disaster is a gradual process but knowing who to call can help a lot. At SERVPRO, we are committed to treating you with courtesy and respect and can help you navigate any type of disaster. Search SERVPRO near me to find the nearest SERVPRO professional in your local community.

Why Hire SERVPRO? Our Longevity in the Industry

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Find a SERVPRO near me today for a guaranteed exceptional restoration and remediation service.

SERVPRO has a long history of success in the field of cleanup and restoration, making us the best choice for both residential and commercial properties. For over 34 years, SERVPRO has been proudly serving several local communities in Florida with exceptional restoration and remediation services. Our longevity in the industry has made us a reliable cleaning and restoration partner.

Here’s some insight into why you should consider hiring SERVPRO for your cleaning and restoration needs.

Trusted Name in the Industry

It takes a lot of hard work to become a trusted name in the industry. This means homeowners and business owners have depended on us for their cleaning and restoration needs for over 34 years. Just search SERVPRO near me online and you will see our reputation for excellence in the industry. We work tirelessly to ensure that our customers are satisfied with our services, which is why we have such a strong reputation.

Track Record of Delivering Results

We have a proven track record for delivering outstanding results when it comes to handling cleaning and restoration needs for both residential and commercial properties. This is one more reason why you should consider hiring SERVPRO for your cleanup and restoration needs. When you look up SERV pro near me, you can also look up the number of positive reviews from our past clients. We deliver what we promise.

Trained Staff and Certified Specialists

In our many years in the industry, we understand that experience matters. As part of our reliable and dependable service, we only send certified specialists to your property. Every specialist we hire is thoroughly trained and certified to perform each job and safely perform restoration or remediation. With this level of experience, we know we can count on our specialists without creating any problems. 

Locally Owned and Operated

We are a locally owned and operated company that is committed to making a difference in your community. Just like any other locally owned and operated company, we are invested in the growth of the community we serve. It also shows that we have local expertise that you won’t find in any other companies. We can guarantee that we are near, and you can count on us to respond quickly and professionally when you need help. We care about your property as much as you do, which is why we want to make sure we get the job done right the first time.

Find a SERVPRO near me today!

When disaster happens, you want a company that can respond to your emergency quickly and efficiently. Our years of experience and track record of results show what we can bring to the table. Whether you need us for a one-time job or a regular schedule of cleanup and restoration, we’re here to help you. We have worked hard to earn our reputation, and we are ready to keep thriving in the service industry for years to come. Search SERVPRO near me to find the nearest SERVPRO that serves in your area.

Why Hire SERVPRO? Unrivaled Expertise!

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Find SERVPRO cleaning near me. SERVPRO is ready to respond to your emergency when you need it. Give us a call!

When the unexpected happens, you need help fast. That’s why SERVPRO is ready to respond 24/7 to emergency situations like mold, water, or fire damage. Just look for SERVPRO restoration near me or SERVPRO cleaning near me to find expert help in your area. Restoring your home or business quickly and effectively is important. Learn more about why SERVPRO is the best choice for your home or business when it comes to cleaning and restoration.

Advanced Cleaning Equipment

Using advanced cleaning equipment matters in the cleaning process after a disaster. The right tools and products can help to ensure that your home or business is fully restored. On top of that, the wrong products can cause damage and make restoration more difficult. In areas prone to flooding, water damage can be devastating. Floors, walls, furniture, and fixtures can be irreversibly damaged. SERVPRO’s cleaning team works with the best water extraction equipment and powerful dehumidifiers. When it comes to fire damage, we use the right tools to remove smoke, soot, and odors. 

Advanced Training

You want to choose professionals who are trained in every aspect of restoration so you can rest assured that we will do the job right. SERVPRO's cleaning teams are trained in advanced techniques for water damage, fire and mold remediation, and more. Our teams have extensive training in restoration and cleanup. These professionals have the tools and equipment to handle any type of emergency. They can clean and restore your property to pre-event condition.

We Specialize in Water, Fire, Mold, Storm, and Commercial Services.

SERVPRO’s specialists are qualified to handle fire, water, or mold damage in homes, businesses, and industrial properties. We have the training and equipment to respond to fire and mold emergencies in commercial properties such as restaurants and hospitals. Our team is also prepared to handle storms and other extreme weather conditions in residential and commercial properties.

Our full range of services is a perfect match for you.

If you’ve been through a fire, flood, or other water damage event, you know how stressful and inconvenient it can be. You’ve got to move everything out of your home or business and wait for it to dry. SERVPRO can help alleviate some of the stress by getting you back in your home or business as soon as possible. We’re ready when you need us. Our staff is available 24/7, and our equipment and tools are ready to go when you need them. Just search SERVPRO restoration near me or SERVPRO cleaning near me to find experts nearest to you.

Wrapping Up: Why Hire SERVPRO for Cleaning and Restoration?

Life happens. Floods, fires, storms, and other natural events can disrupt your normal routine, and you may need emergency cleaning and restoration services. SERVPRO is ready to respond to your emergency when you need it. We’re experts in emergency services and can work to mitigate the damage so you can get back to normal as soon as possible. We’re ready to get to work for you when you need us, and we’ll return your home or business to normal as soon as possible. Here at SERVPRO, we get the job done right the first time.

What Happens When Smoke Damage is Left Untreated

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

If there is still smoke residue left after a fire, call for a fire damage repair immediately to prevent further issues down the road.

After a fire, the most important thing is to get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. But while your primary focus should be on the physical and emotional wounds of the event, you may have to take care of some secondary issues before you can get back to normal as well. For example, if your home was damaged in a fire, you will need a fire damage repair professional to come in and clean up the smoke residue and soot that remains. 

Here are some issues that could happen down the road if you keep smoke damage left untreated.

Structural Damage

When not treated properly, smoke residue can cause structural damage to walls, ceilings, flooring, and other items in the home. When firefighters use water to extinguish flames and it mixes with smoke residue, this can trap moisture. As a result, this will cause wood items and other surfaces in your home to deteriorate.

More extensive damage in the house

Ultimately, the most important thing to remember is that smoke residue can cause a wide variety of issues on its own. Additionally, it can also make the damage from a fire worse. This can lead to more extensive damage throughout your home, such as busted fixtures, ripped linens, holes in drywall, and more. Fire damage is never fun to deal with, but the more serious the damage, the more important it is that you get it dealt with quickly.

The good news is that once the smoke residue is cleaned up, your home will be structurally sound again. Fire damage restoration is the best way to prevent this from happening in the first place.

Decreased home value

With so many people trying to sell their homes, checking a home’s value is the first thing that buyers will look at when deciding whether to purchase yours. With smoke residue lingering throughout your house, it’s going to look less appealing to buyers. 

Conclusion

All these consequences are important to consider when it comes to smoke residue cleanup. Not only will it help to prevent future issues, but it can also help to mitigate some of the ones that your home suffered. If you find that there is still smoke residue left after a fire, call for a fire damage repair and make sure that you get it cleaned up immediately. Doing so will mitigate the damage it has on your home, as well as help mitigate the financial costs associated with it.

Safer Alternatives to Leaf Burning

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

If your home has been damaged by fire, immediately look for 24 hour fire damage repair and restoration to restore your home as soon as possible.

When leaves start to pile up, we tend to reach for the matches, but chances are that you will be doing more harm than good. With the number of risks involved in burning leaves, it is best to avoid them altogether. If a fire is not in your plans, there are better alternatives to burning leaves.

Why shouldn’t you burn leaves?

Firefighters and 24 hour fire damage repair and restoration experts agree that burning leaves is not a good idea. Even though it seems convenient, especially when there has been a pile of dry leaves surrounding your home, and you want to rid yourself of them, it is not worth the risk.

Moreover, if your property is also prone to bushfires, burning leaves can easily spark another fire and cause a lot of damage to your home. When this happens, you will have to immediately look for fire damage restoration companies near me. Otherwise, you can be in for a lot of trouble.

There are better ways to dispose of your leaves without any risks involved. Here are safer alternatives to leaf burning.

Make a compost pit.

If you have a pile of leaves from your backyard and you want to avoid burning them, consider making a compost pit. Cover it with a lid — something that prevents unwanted pests and animals from getting inside. Composting can take several weeks, but it will reduce the amount of waste in your landfill by taking your leaves and turning them into compost, which can be used in your garden.

Mulch your leaves.

Mulching is a great way to reduce the number of leaves you have in your yard, but it’s also a great way to keep your yard fire-free. You just need to collect the leaves and put them in a pile. Use your lawnmower or grass cutter to cut your leaves into smaller pieces, and then spread them around the base of your plants. The best part about mulching is that it reduces the amount of heat your lawn absorbs from the sun. Aside from that, it can also reduce the amount of water your plants need and prevent weeds from sprouting.

Contact lawn care services.

If you have a lawn that you simply don’t have the time to care for, then it may be time to hire a lawn care service. This is a great way to avoid having your yard on fire and it can also save you money. Most lawn care services will pick up your leaves and spread them around your landscape as well, reducing the amount of yard that needs to be mowed. They’ll take care of everything, so you don’t have to worry about having those leaf piles again.

Conclusion

Keep in mind that during a fire, a lot of things happen very quickly. If your home has been damaged by fire, immediately look for fire damage restoration companies near me and see if there's 24 hour fire damage repair and restoration that can help restore your home as soon as possible.

Keep Electrical Cords from Becoming a Fire Hazard

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

Keeping your electrical cords and wiring in good condition is one of the best ways to prevent a fire hazard.

When something goes wrong with electrical wiring in your home or office, it can create a big mess. That’s because electricity travels through thin metal wires that are enclosed in plastic conduits or ceilings. If exposed, the wires can become a fire hazard. When that happens, you need to immediately contact a 24 hour fire damage repair and restoration company. Make sure to contact fire damage restoration companies near me as soon as possible as this is not something you should deal with on your own. 

With a few electrical safety tips, you can save yourself time, money, and worry. Here’s how to keep electrical cords from becoming a fire hazard.

Limit the Amount of Electrical Waste

One of the easiest ways to keep electrical cords from becoming a fire hazard is to reduce the amount of electrical waste in your home or office. This means no more twiddling with the power button on your electronics when you’re finished using them. Instead, try using a power strip or outlet that has a circuit breaker built-in. This will cut your devices off from the power source when you turn off the switch. This is especially helpful if you have a lot of electronics that are outdated or not being used.

Remove or Cover Worn Out Wires

When you have multiple electrical wires in one area, they’re susceptible to damage and moisture. A worn-out wire will often become damaged and the moisture can lead to a fire hazard. A good way to keep your electrical cords from becoming a fire hazard is to remove or cover worn-out wires. This can be as simple as unscrewing a light socket and removing the socket and its cover. This also helps avoid tripping over wires.

Use GFCI Outlets

Outlets are one of the most common causes of fires in homes and offices. That’s because they’re easy to trip over, especially when you’re wearing shoes or when someone else is using the same outlet. When unplugging devices, make sure to turn off the GFCI circuit breaker. 

Secure Old Wires with Cables

If you have an old wiring job in your home or office, it’s best to secure the exposed wires with cables. This will help prevent damage and moisture intrusion. Start by running the cables inside walls or into a conduit. Then secure the cables with staples or screws. 

Don’t Over Tighten Wires

This is one of the most important tips when it comes to keeping your electrical cords from becoming a fire hazard. Over tightening, wires can cause damage to the cord and the electrical connection. This will reduce the wire’s ability to conduct electricity. Instead of using a cord that is too short, buy a longer cord and use it properly. 

Conclusion

Keeping your electrical cords and wiring in good condition is one of the best ways to prevent a fire hazard. If your home or office has caught fire, you should look for fire damage restoration companies near me. A 24 hour fire damage repair and restoration can immediately restore your property and secure your electrical cords in the future.

How to Remove Smoke Soot from Walls After a Fire

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Although there are many ways to remove smoke soot, it is important that you contact a 24 hour fire damage repair and restoration right after a fire.

Dealing with fire damage to your home is never fun. You need to be prepared to deal with the loss of your things and even deal with all that smoke soot. Fire and smoke damage like soot and even smoke odor can destroy the interior and exterior of your property. Cleaning up soot from walls requires expert attention which is why you should look for fire damage restoration companies near me that offer 24 hour fire damage repair and restoration as soon as possible.

While waiting for the cleaning team, here are a few ways you can remove smoke soot from your walls.

Sweep the wall and ceiling.

Using any regular broom or even duster available, you will want to sweep the walls and ceiling to remove and prevent any soot from accumulating. This way, it’s also a lot easier to clean the walls afterward.

Vacuum your wall.

Once you’ve swept the walls, you can vacuum the walls to remove any remaining soot. A powerful vacuum with a strong motor will get the job done quickly. It is important to vacuum the walls after any cleaning product is applied, as some cleaning materials can leave residue behind and cause more damage than necessary.

Use a wet mop and a scrub.

This will help to loosen any remaining soot and debris before you can begin to scrub the walls. Spray water or cleaning solution and let the water sit on the walls for a few minutes before you begin to scrub. Scrubbing lightly with a soft-bristled brush or scrubber will help to loosen the soot and debris, allowing it to be easily wiped away. Make sure to clean the walls from top to bottom, including the ceiling.

When doing this, make sure that you wear gloves, a face mask, and any other protective clothing. Even firefighters and fire damage cleanup professionals use protective equipment due to the risks involved in fire damage cleanup.

Use a grease cleaner.

Grease cleaners are effective for removing soot, especially when the soot is mixed with grease. Grease collects in the ventilation system of the home, which is one of the reasons that soot fires are dangerous. These cleaners will not only remove grease and oil, but they will also remove any soot that has accumulated in the ventilation system. When choosing a grease cleaner, make sure to use one that is labeled as being safe for use on walls and ceilings. If you can, choose something that is environmentally friendly to prevent further chemical exposure in your surroundings.

Conclusion

Soot residue can be extremely challenging to remove and if you're not careful, it can even cause more damage to your home. Although there are many ways to remove smoke soot from walls all by yourself, it is extremely important that you contact a 24 hour fire damage repair and restoration right after a fire. Make sure to look for fire damage restoration companies near me that are committed to cleaning smoke damage and soot residue from your home safely and effectively.

Should Storm Damaged Floors Be Replaced or Repaired?

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

The best way to decide whether you should get your floor repaired or replaced is to get the advice of storm damage restoration professionals.

A storm wreaks havoc on your home and leaves behind damage to the surface of your floors. Should you repair the damage or replace the damaged areas? It’s sometimes difficult to decide whether you should spend money on replacing a damaged floor.

If you live in an area that is more likely to experience water damage caused by storms, time is essential. Prolonged water damage can lead to pest infestations, mold growth, and even damage to your property’s foundation. If you are thinking about repairing or replacing the damaged floor, here is what you need to know.

Check out the severity of the damage.

Before doing any storm damage restoration, the first thing you should do is determine the severity of the damage. Contact a storm damage repair contractor Volusia who can do a proper assessment of the damage. They will check out different factors like water damage and mold damage and give you an estimate of the cost. This way you will know how much money to spend on the repair work.

What types of repairs can be done?

It’s possible to repair damaged floors without having to replace the entire surface. In most cases, you can return your floor to its original state. For example, if it’s just a small crack, you may be able to do this by yourself. You just need quality tools and materials for it. However, if the storm damage is more severe, you should always call a professional. They have the expertise and the tools to properly repair a storm-damaged floor. They know how to perform what sort of repairs are needed for your floor to return to its original state.

Do you need to replace the entire floor?

If your entire floor is damaged, replacing it is the most cost-effective option. Replacing the floor will eliminate the need to find materials that would match the entire look of the room. If the damage is only in one area, such as a kitchen or bathroom, then repairing that area is still advisable. In many cases, replacing the entire floor is a better option.

Is it worth it to repair the damaged floor?

This decision will depend entirely on the cost, time, and labor involved. Repairs can only be done up to a certain point. Is the wood too damaged to repair? Is it going to take a long time for the repairs to be made? Is there a possibility that the floor will get damaged again? If you answered yes to any of those questions, repairing won't be worth the cost.

Conclusion

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether you should repair or replace your damaged floor. The best way to decide is to get the advice of storm damage restoration professionals. They will have the knowledge and expertise needed to give you an accurate assessment of the damage and proper advice on how to proceed with your repairs. Contact a storm damage repair contractor Volusia for a proper inspection and estimate.

How to Properly Document Property Damage After a Storm

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Documenting the damage in your property after the storm is important to speed up the storm damage restoration and insurance claim process.

It's been a few weeks since the storm hit, and you've finally had some time to assess the damage. Your home is in shambles, trees are down all over your property, and there's water damage everywhere. You know you need to start the insurance claim process, but where do you begin? 

Follow these steps to make the storm damage cleanup process as smooth as possible.

Hire storm damage cleanup services.

The most important step you can take after a storm is to hire professional storm damage cleanup services. A reputable company will have the experience and equipment necessary to assess and then clean up your property safely and effectively. They will also be able to provide you with a detailed report of the damage, which will be essential for your insurance claim.

Storm damage restoration can be a lot more complicated than you think. It's important to let professionals do their job so that you can avoid any further damage.

Take photos and videos.

You can work with the cleaning company and document the damage by taking photos and videos of every damage and loss. This will help you provide a visual representation to your insurance company. Make sure to photograph both the exterior and interior of your home and document any damage to personal property. That way, you can be sure that you won't miss anything when filing your claim. More importantly, take photos and videos before the storm as well.

Photos and videos can also be used as evidence if you need to go to court.

Create a list of all damaged items.

Next, create a list of all the damaged items. Having a list of all damaged items can help you organize things later. You can also easily track what things you need after the storm if you have a list of all damaged items. This can include anything from furniture and appliances to clothes and jewelry. If you have receipts for any of these items, be sure to include them in your claim. Again, this will help ensure that you don't miss anything when filing your claim.

Keep track of all expenses related to the storm damage.

If you must make any repairs or purchases related to the storm damage, be sure to keep all receipts. This way, you will get reimbursed by your insurance company for these. Moreover, it's also important to keep track of expenses like missed workdays or hotel stays. This can also include canceled checks, bank statements, and more. By documenting all your expenses, you can be sure that you won't be left out of pocket after the storm.

Conclusion

Filing an insurance claim after a storm can be overwhelming. But by following these simple steps, you can make the process as smooth as possible. Remember to stay patient and be persistent. The insurance company will want to see all your documentation before deciding on your claim.

If you need help getting started, contact a storm damage restoration company. They will be able to guide you through the entire process and help make sure that you get the reimbursement you deserve.

There is Water in My Retail Store, Who Do I Turn to for Help?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

After a water loss incident in a retail store, it is imperative to clean it up properly, so it does not turn into a breeding ground for mold.

Contact a Company that Performs Commercial Water Removal

Water loss in a retail store can happen because of several reasons, such as overflowing sinks, burst pipes, and a leaking roof. Your retail store can suffer immediate losses in terms of destruction to electronic equipment, merchandise, and fixtures. The water can also seep up walls into insulation and other structural materials.

How Can I Prevent Further Losses?

Water damage can cause you to incur longer-term losses such as lost business because of the time your store remains shut for cleanup and restoration. To prevent additional losses, you need to start the process of commercial water removal as soon as possible. At SERVPRO, we understand business operations, and we have served different commercial clients for many years. We know our way around retail stores and other business premises. Some benefits of working with us include:

•     Round the clock availability.
•     Courteous and helpful water damage restoration technicians (WRTs).
•     Advanced water removal equipment to handle water extraction projects of any size.
•     Complete water removal and drying services.
•     Thorough cleaning and decontamination using EPA-approved products.
•     Working with your insurance company.

How Do You Conduct the Water Removal Process?

Our technicians conduct an assessment to know which steps to take to remove the water and dry a property quickly. During the process, our technicians do the following:

•     Look out for safety hazards like falling stock, uneven flooring, and ruined electrical wiring.
•     Determine what caused the water loss and take steps to prevent further leaking. 
•     Determine the most appropriate and effective strategy for cleaning up your property. 

After a water loss incident in a retail store, it is imperative to clean it up properly, so it does not turn into a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms. Our SERVPRO team can extract the water efficiently using electric submersible pumps, which offer continuous and quiet operation. 

We can also inventory the salvageable items, equipment, and fixtures and move them to our facilities for proper drying and restoration. Our team can also get rid of debris and unsalvageable items, including furnishings and structural items.

We can then place structural drying equipment like air movers and desiccant dehumidifiers throughout your store to dry the affected areas thoroughly. Air movers expedite the drying of surfaces like flooring and enhance air circulation of the whole indoor space. Desiccant dehumidifiers use chemicals called desiccants, which absorb moisture from the air dehumidifiers process readily. 

When a water loss problem occurs in your retail store, you can trust SERVPRO of West Volusia to remove the water and dry the business premises. Contact us any time at (386) 574-0864.

SERVPRO Protects Businesses in DeLand from Flood Damage

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

The restoration process after flood damage involves meticulous planning and spot-on execution to restore your DeLand commercial space.

Why You Need Professional Restorers for Flood Damage Restoration of your DeLand Commercial Property

Water cleanup after flood damage at your commercial property in DeLand can be a difficult and time-consuming process. Seeking immediate help from SERVPRO can save you a lot of time and headache dealing with the aftermath of flood loss. Our technicians are available 24/7, and We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

The restoration process after flood damage involves meticulous planning and spot-on execution to restore your DeLand commercial space to preloss condition. SERVPRO experts have the experience, training, and equipment to get the job done. 

What Steps do SERVPRO Techs Take During Flood Restoration at DeLand Properties? 

SERVPRO experts carry out the flood restoration in many steps-

• Establish engineering controls- Include building containment and establishing negative pressure to limit exposure to unaffected parts during the water cleanup process
• Remove water- Excess water from carpets and other flooring is extracted with truck-mounted or portable extractors and wet vacuums.
• Provide Humidity Control- Dehumidifiers and air movers control the humidity to minimize potential secondary damage and microbial amplification.
• Decontamination of salvageable material- We use pressure washing, wet cleaning, and HEPA vacuuming to clean the damaged material. SERVPRO technicians also use antimicrobials and disinfectants to decontaminate surfaces and materials

Call SERVPRO of West Volusia at (386) 574-0864 for a fast and efficient flood damage restoration service.

What Deodorization Method is Best After a Fire in DeLand Homes?

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire loss, one of the most substantial obstacles to making these disasters "Like it never even happened," is often lingering smoke odors.

here are multiple odor removal approaches for smoke and burning smells after a structure fire. 

While there are undoubtedly dozens of potential hazards and problematic loss effects after a structure fire inhomes, our SERVPRO of West Volusia professionals have the tools and technologies to overcome these needs. As a leading fire restoration company for the area, we understand how something as small as a persistent smoke odor can compromise your comfort in your home. We approach deodorization to eliminate or neutralize odor molecules present in the open environments of the house and trapped in porous materials and contents. 

When you experience fire damage in your home, most homeowners fixate on the immediate concerns first, such as debris removal and residues on the surfaces and contents throughout the structure. These challenges can be hazardous and marring to your home if not addressed immediately. Even structural repairs and build back comes before the deodorization process. Cleaning and demolition can agitate trapped odors, making it more absolute to wait and neutralize harsh scents in the property until the final stages of cleaning and restoration. Multiple tools can play a part in removing these noxious smoke and burning smells, including:

• Ozone Machines
• Hydroxyl Generators
• Thermal Foggers

Are There Ways to Reduce Odor Concentrations Before Deodorizing?

Debris removal is one of the tactics that our professionals and contractors utilize during the pre-mitigation emergency services stage. Removing ash and debris from the floors, along with remnants of damaged wall systems and other construction materials, can reduce the concentrations of harsh odors and soot particles to make restoration more efficient. 

When is an Ozone Machine Beneficial for Post-Fire Restoration? 

Even with how incredibly productive ozone machines can be, they can also be damaging to living things, including occupants, pets, and plants. The use of ozone machines creates an unbalanced chemical compound that adheres to odor molecules and neutralizes them on contact. The process can be so destructive to humans, though, that even our restoration professionals must vacate the recovery effort to allow this process to occur on a timer. There are applications for this deodorization technique, as it is one of the staples for odor removal in our SERVPRO warehouse facility in our ozone chamber. This process works best when:

• No occupants present 
• There is time to recover property
• There are harsh odors in open areas and trapped in walls/flooring
• There are odor-damaged contents 

Do Hydroxyl Generators Help Remove Odors? 

There are several ways that hydroxyl generators are an excellent tool for fire restoration and recovery. Even without using this device for deodorization, it is a unique machine for air quality control. There are a few ways that this deodorization option can be an ideal choice in specific scenarios, and these include: 

• HEPA Filtration – With an onboard filtration system, hydroxyl generators can pull contaminated and dirty air through the machine and trap particulates as small as 0.3 microns in the built-in HEPA filter. 
• UV Cleaning – Using the same chemical process that UV rays from the sun use to clean the atmosphere, hydroxyl generators create a chemical reaction being water droplets in the damaged environment and a UV spectrum to clean the space where the device gets placed, including odor compounds. 
• Safe for Occupants – One of the distinct advantages of using this device over other options is that these machines can run through additional cleaning and restoration processes conducted by our SERVPRO team working in the house. 

Is Thermal Fogging Best for Odor Removal? 

Thermal fogging devices are among the most versatile and widely used for post-fire odor removal for multiple reasons. With the lightweight units that are handheld, technicians can quickly move from one room to the next and cover a broader area in less time. By creating a mist and vapor with a deodorizing product, fine droplets and the gaseous composition can penetrate porous materials like drywall and carpeting to neutralize trapped odors in these structural elements. In addition to these beneficial aspects, thermal fogging is safe for technicians and even occupants of the house, allowing you to begin returning to your home more quickly after the fire restoration.

After a fire loss, one of the most substantial obstacles to making these disasters "Like it never even happened," is often lingering smoke and burning odors. Our SERVPRO of West Volusia team can help with multiple deodorization tools and technologies to overcome these fire loss effects and prevent costlier tear-out and reconstruction. Give our team a call anytime at (386) 573-0864.

COVID Sanitization and Disinfection Service in Volusia County

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO knows that we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean, and that’s why we have the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program.

COVID Sanitization and Disinfection Service in West Volusia

As we continue to face COVID-19, it’s important to feel confident that the place where we gather is clean and safe.

Commercial Covid Cleaning

SERVPRO knows that we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean, and that’s why we have the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program. This defensive and proactive pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices.

Expert Level Cleaning Services

SERVPRO® franchise professionals are uniquely prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs daily. Our professionals are trained to perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning, and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

De Land, FL

Deltona, FL

Debary, FL

Orange City, FL

Lake Helen, FL

Seville, FL

Pierson, FL

De Leon Springs, FL

Barberville, FL

North Deland, FL

Fire Safety Best Practices For Commercial Buildings

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Having the proper fire safety practices in place can potentially save your business from a disastrous fire.

Here are a few fire-safety tips focused on keeping the workplace safe.

1. Keep your workplace clean and organized. Mess contributes to fires by providing more fuel to the flames and by limiting access to exits and emergency equipment.
2. Place all oily/chemical covered rags in a seal-able metal container. Dispose of this waste on a regular basis.
3. Keep machinery on an appropriate maintenance schedule and keep to it, to prevent overheating and sparks.
4. Report all electrical hazards immediately faulty wiring is a common cause of fires along with and malfunctioning electrical equipment. Never attempt electrical repairs unless you are qualified and authorized.
5. Have easy access to all electrical control panels. Clutter and equipment stored in front of the panels slow down your ability to shut down the power in emergencies.
6. Use and store chemicals safely. Read the label and the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to determine if the substances are flammable or hazardous in any way. Provide proper ventilation when using and storing these substances.
7. Smoke only in designated areas and extinguish smoking materials safely and thoroughly. Never smoke in storerooms or chemical storage areas. Never exposes areas containing chemicals to open flames of any variety.
8. Never block sprinklers, firefighting equipment, or emergency exits.
9. Have an emergency information list near telephones. The list should include emergency numbers, company address, and fire evacuation plans.
10. Learn the location of all fire extinguishers and how to properly use them.

A Simple Guide To Emergency Water Extraction

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Learn how a water extraction service may help you in an emergency water extraction. Read more for information.

Water damage in your home may create a slew of difficulties, including major structural concerns and property damage if not addressed immediately and properly. Property degradation can be slowed by prompt and efficient intervention such as water damage restoration.

What exactly is the definition of water extraction?

The practice of removing excess or standing water from your house or property is known as water extraction. Water extraction services that specialize in water extraction and water damage restoration strive to minimize damage to a house or company following floods. The repair company's mission throughout the water extraction procedure is not just to reduce water damage but also to reduce the possibility of irreversible harm to assets, prevent the formation of mold, and restore the property to its original state.

Water extraction from your home or property can be a tough task that is best left to the professionals, such as those that provide water extraction service. Understanding the process of water removal, on the other hand, is critical to knowing what portions of your property can be recovered and what you can do to repair your home.

What is involved in the water extraction process?

1. Turn off the water flow. Water removal cannot begin unless the source of the undesired water is removed. This may be as simple as turning off the main water line to your property, however some damage may necessitate the assistance of emergency services.
2. Draining the water. It is critical to remove obvious pockets of water from your home to minimize further damage. This may be performed by utilizing a wet vacuum or a pump to assist in draining the water away from your house. To avoid injuring yourself or a loved one, make sure that any utility lines, such as electricity, are turned off.
3. Remove any unseen water.  Even if you have successfully removed visible water from your property, the harm may continue undetected. Water can become trapped beneath carpets, causing mold growth or structural damage to your building. Water may also make its way into places it should not, such as walls, in certain circumstances.

A professional will use sophisticated water extraction gear to guarantee that all water is removed from your house to prevent future water damage and will carry out water damage restoration. While you may have a wet vacuum and a fan, there are innumerable spots that may be missed, or the damage may be more severe than your eyes can detect, resulting in more costly difficulties later on.

What is the purpose of a water extraction service?

When your property has been flooded, it might be tempting to try to handle the water extraction and cleanup procedure on your own. However, without the required equipment and professional understanding, this might lead to further issues. Structural drying is a scientific procedure that necessitates skilled water damage training and the use of specialist tools. This implies that contacting a professional water removal service is critical to ensuring your property's complete recovery.

Conclusion

With emergency water extraction services available, you should be able to quickly and effectively remove the water from your home. The sooner you begin the drying process after a flood or leak occurs, the less damage will occur to your home and property. Contact us today if you need help with any of these issues so we can send out a team to assess your situation and provide solutions for removing the water quickly!

How to Clean Mold Off Exterior Door?

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

If you need extensive help with the mold growth in your exterior doors, nothing can beat professional mold restoration services!

Mold is a type of fungus and can grow on surfaces and materials. Mold will not only leave your favorite shirt with an unpleasant odor, but it can also leave surfaces unsightly – especially on exterior doors. In some cases, cleaning mold off exterior doors will require some elbow grease, but the result is worth it. 

Here are some tips to help you remove this pesky intruder from your home or office space.  

Identify the material of your door. 

If it is made of wood, you will want to use a mold removal product specifically designed for wood surfaces. Products like this can easily be found at most hardware stores.  If your door is made of plastic or vinyl, you can use a general all-purpose cleaner to get rid of the mold. 

Use a scrub brush to apply your cleaner directly onto the surface where you see visible traces of mold and allow it to sit for five minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Be sure to wear protective gloves when working with cleaning products! You can also take this time to inspect other areas around your door for potential mold growth. 

Use water and vinegar solution.

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and hot water in a spray bottle. Apply this mixture to all areas where you see mold with either paper towels or an old rag, then wipe it away until the area is clean. This solution is less harsh than using a commercial cleaner, but it may take some extra time to get the job done.

Use chlorine bleach solution. 

Create a 50/50 mix of chlorine bleach and warm water inside another spray bottle. Apply this mixture to any areas where you see mold but take care not to get it on any surfaces that will be affected by the bleach. Let the solution sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. If your door is made of metal, you can also use a wire brush to scrub away any mold that is clinging to the surface.

Get a cleaning professional involved.

If the mold on your door is extensive, or if you are uncomfortable with any of the methods listed above, it may be best to look for mold remediation near me. When it comes to professional mold restoration, you are guaranteed to have the experience and equipment necessary to get rid of even the most stubborn strains of mold.

Let everything dry and prevent moisture buildup.

After you have removed all the molds from your door, be sure to allow it to dry completely before closing it again. Moisture is the key ingredient for mold growth, so take measures to prevent it from coming back. You can place a fan near the door to circulate air, or you can use a dehumidifier to keep the environment dry.

Conclusion

Mold is never a welcome sight, but luckily it can be easily removed with some simple tools and products. If you need assistance with the process, look for expert mold remediation near me. Nothing can beat professional mold restoration services!

How to Make Your Home Smell Fresh?

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is badly in need of freshening, professional odor removal is the best solution to make your home smell fresh again.

What smells are you looking for? A freshly baked apple pie, a simmering pot of soup, or something fresher like lavender? Scent has shown to have a strong narrative power that can influence our emotions. It affects our moods, how we remember things, and our overall well-being.

No matter what it is that you want your home to smell like, the good news is that there are plenty of ways to accomplish this. The bad news is, there could be an underlying reason why your home doesn't smell as fresh as you'd like it to.

Top reasons why your home has an unpleasant odor

The best way to make your home smell fresh is to determine the root of the problem. Once you have identified what's causing your home to smell less than fresh, you can then take steps to correct it. 

• Pets
• Dirty laundry piling up in the hamper
• Trash not being taken out regularly
• Cooking smells that haven't been vented properly
• Mildew and mold growths due to humidity or water damage 
• Clogged drains

What kills odor?

Once you have determined the root of the problem, it's time to take corrective action. Depending on what is causing your home to smell bad, you can use anything from baking soda to commercial odor removal products. Baking soda has been used for centuries as a deodorizer and freshener because it absorbs moisture and odors. Vinegar is another household product that can be used to absorb foul smells in the home, while also being a natural disinfectant. Lemons are a great way to get rid of cooking smells, and they also have a pleasant citrus scent.

While all these options are great in killing odors in your home, the key to completely eliminating odor is to correct the underlying cause of your home's unpleasant smell.

What is the best solution for absorbing unpleasant odors from a room?

Odor removal may not be as easy as just spraying a disinfectant or lighting a candle. If the smell in your home is particularly bad, it might be necessary to take more drastic measures. If you think there is too much work involved in trying to determine the root of the problem and then taking corrective action, you can always call for a professional odor removal service. These companies have the expertise and equipment to identify and correct any odor-causing problems in your home. They will also work with you to find a solution that's affordable and convenient.

More importantly, professional help is the best option to take if you think the smell in your home is due to hazardous materials, like mold or asbestos. Trying to remove these harmful materials on your own can be dangerous and could end up making the problem worse.

Conclusion

A home that smells fresh is a happy home. By determining the root of the problem and taking corrective action, you can make your home smell great again. If your home is badly in need of freshening, professional odor removal is the best solution to make your home smell fresh again.

Basement Floods After a Storm: What to Do?

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

A roof with storm damage.

Basements are one of the most vulnerable parts of a home to flooding, and after heavy rain or snowstorm, many homeowners find themselves dealing with water-soaked ceilings and walls. As you begin to clean up and dry out your basement, there are several important things that you need to do to prevent future problems.

Shut off running pipes.

If the source of the flooding is a pipe, you'll want to turn it off as soon as possible. You can do this by shutting off just the pipe that leads to the basement. In any case, you can temporarily turn off all pipes until you figure out what's causing the basement to flood.

Remove all wet items from the basement as quickly as possible.

You'll want to move quickly and take out all of the wet items from your basement as soon as possible. Keep in mind that if you don't clean these items immediately, they will mold which can lead to further damage. Be cautious when removing wet insulation or carpeting because it may hold moisture for several days after exposure to water.

While you may think that a flooded basement can be easily cleaned up, it's important to remember that mold and mildew can grow very quickly under the right conditions. If not taken care of immediately, this problem will only get worse as time goes on and it can affect the health of your entire home.

Inspect for any cracks or weak spots in your basement walls.

If you find any cracks or weak spots, you'll want to repair them as soon as possible. If the source of water is coming from outside your home, then this may mean calling a contractor for help.

Call a Storm Damage Restoration professional.

Storm damage cleanup can be a complicated and confusing job, so you may want to call a storm damage restoration professional. These technicians can help with everything from removing water-damaged materials to restoring the air quality of your home after flooding. They will also help you with repairs and waterproofing to prevent future flooding in your basement.

Contact your insurance company about what coverage is available to protect against future floods.

Flooding is a common occurrence in the U.S. In fact, 90% of all natural disasters in the U.S. involve flooding. This is why you must have coverage in any case. If you have flood insurance coverage, contact your insurance company about what protection is available to help with cleanup and reconstruction of any damaged property. They may even be able to help you with the cost of your next home improvement project.

Conclusion

Right after a storm, many homeowners are surprised by how expensive it can be to deal with flooding in their basement due to extensive damage and necessary repairs. A storm damage cleanup professional can help you with the entire process of restoring your home after a flood. With some quick steps and by taking care of the damaged property as soon as possible, you'll get through this difficult time with minimal effort.

How Often Do Businesses Need a Deep Cleaning Service and Why?

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial building interior.

Your employees have every reason to expect clean surroundings. Many commercial buildings have employees working in the building, who track dirt and grime into buildings on their shoes and clothes every single day.

If you don't clean your office space regularly, it will become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. For instance, mold can develop in almost any part of commercial structures, particularly in moist places such as air ducts or drip pans. This is extremely harmful to our health. There's even a name for sickness caused by a dirty building environment. It’s called the Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). According to the Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sick Building Syndrome increases sickness absenteeism and causes a decrease in the productivity of the workers.

Therefore, commercial buildings require a commercial building cleaning service whenever possible. The reason why it is important is that regular cleaning alone doesn't properly eliminate bacteria growth and malodors.

How often does your office need a deep clean?

Generally, providers of commercial building restoration services recommend deep cleaning services every quarter. However, the frequency of commercial building cleanings depends on the size and condition of each office space.

For instance, in offices where people work with their hands such as construction sites or manufacturing facilities, there is a greater risk of developing skin problems and disease since the germs can be spread more easily. In this case, companies should schedule commercial building restoration services more often than other industries.

What can you expect from a deep cleaning service?

Deep cleaning requires specific skills and application methods different from regular cleaning. 

Deep cleaning services usually involve:

• Ceilings, walls, and hard floors
• Drapes and blinds
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism
• Trauma and Crime Scene

How do you know it's time to schedule for a deep clean?

This will depend on the situation and setup of your business. The greatest advice is to pay attention to your clients and staff. You might believe your cleaning routine is sufficient as it is. But what matters most is the condition of your facilities. When you hire an expert provider of commercial building cleaning service, they will help assess the condition of your office spaces and let you know when deep cleaning is needed. You can schedule quarterly or monthly deep cleaning services with them depending on the size of each office space.

Make cleanliness a priority in your business.

Building cleanliness matters to your employees, customers, and visitors alike. When the atmosphere is clean, it contributes to a positive working environment that increases productivity. Good hygiene also helps create an impression of professionalism for potential clients or business partners who visit the office spaces on special occasions such as presentations or seminars where first impressions matter most.

Find a reputable commercial cleaning company that takes deep cleaning as seriously as you do. This way you can get back to business as usual with cleaner office spaces that are ready to greet your employees and clients alike.

Ways to Repair Water Damaged Electronics

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Phones may not turn on after being water damaged.

After investing heavily in the equipment and technology that keep your business in action, flooded electronics and the ensuing water damage can feel overwhelming. Is it possible to repair the damage on your own? 

Corrosion Damage

One of the most serious causes of damage is the corrosion caused by hidden moisture. The combination of metal, water, and oxygen creates an iron oxide or rust. This gradually breaks down the metals within your equipment. The damage may be apparent within a few hours, but it could also take days before you notice it. The damage to flooded electronics isn't limited to your equipment. Your outlets, circuit interrupters, light switches, timers, and other wired conveniences often experience electronic damage. 

Removing Corrosion

As you begin cleaning up after water damage, carefully consider the risks. It is possible and often very likely that you'll cause further damage to the equipment, and you could put yourself at risk of injury. Some solutions sold for rust removal aren't appropriate for all kinds of technology. 

• Unplug the device and remove batteries. Be aware of exposed connectors that may be fragile or affected by corrosion.
• Watch out for white or green buildup on charging ports or battery, SIM card, and metal connectors. These are areas of corrosion.
• Use cotton swabs or a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution to wash off the corrosion. The cleaning solution may be a mix of baking soda and water, vinegar, or isopropyl alcohol. If the corrosion doesn't come off with gently wiping, you may need to let the solution sit on the area and wipe it off later.
• Allow the electronics to dry completely before plugging it in or replacing batteries. Do not use a heated hair dryer on equipment. 

The best step for cleaning your electronics is to contact a professional,. You risk doing further damage to the equipment, suffering from injuries, and voiding insurance coverage or equipment warranties when you DIY this task. Keep these risks in mind before trying to clean corrosion from flooded electronics on your own.

Why You Should Choose SERVPRO for your Cleanup and Restoration Service

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

Winner of many awards over 40 years of service.

When there is too much mess to clean up after a flood or storm, there are things you simply can't do on your own. It's only reasonable to ask for professional cleanup and restoration service especially that cleaning your home or office is not as easy as you think it is. For one, you may be dealing with dangerous chemical residues or you might not be able to find all the hidden water in your place after a flood. This could lead to mold growth which is very dangerous for your health. Thus, the best solution would be to call a professional service that can do it on your behalf and ensure that everything is done properly without any problems arising in the end.

SERVPRO is one of the leading companies offering cleanup and restoration services for both homes and businesses. Here’s why SERVPRO should be your first choice.

Highly Trained Technicians

One of the reasons why SERVPRO is a favorite choice among many people is because they have highly trained technicians. These are professionals who know how to deal with different kinds of problems and they can handle anything from flooding, mold removal, smoke damage cleanup, water extraction, and more. SERVPRO's technicians have IICRC Training and Certification, Employee Certification Training, Initial Franchise Training, and other continuing education classes to ensure that they are constantly updated with the latest information and techniques to use.

Expertise in Residential and Commercial Properties

SERVPRO technicians are experienced to handle different kinds of cleaning jobs whether it's for a home or office space. They have the expertise to clean up your place in no time at all without causing further damage along the way. Whether it is for a small home, a warehouse, or even a skyscraper, you have peace of mind knowing that SERVPRO professionals are highly trained to handle different kinds of problems.

24-Hour Emergency Cleanup Service

With their 24-Hour Emergency Cleanup Service, you can rest assured that SERVPRO will be on call to help you 24/hours a day whenever disaster strikes. Whether it is during the night or even in the wee hours of the morning, they are always there for you so you don't have to worry about anything at all. This means your property damage problems are treated right away without having to wait for days or weeks to get the help you need.

Advanced Technology and Techniques

SERVPRO is always on top of the game when it comes to using the latest technology in handling restoration. SERVPRO follows the practical standards set for cleaning and restoration by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. The IICRC has standards that incorporate the field of psychometry to restore a property more quickly and effectively. 

Conclusion

When it feels impossible to keep up with the mess in your home or office, you can always rely on SERVPRO for a thorough cleanup and restoration service. And with their 24-Hour service, you don't have to worry about a thing because SERVPRO will be there for you whenever the problem arises.

Strategies to Prepare Your Business for Storm Season 2021

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Damaged Roof

Many of us are now preparing our homes and businesses for what could potentially be some of the worst storms we've seen in years. There are plenty of things you can do now or before the storm season starts to prepare your business for any potential disasters.

Create an emergency plan.

This emergency plan should be created with your employees in mind and should include what the building’s evacuation procedures are, how customers will be notified if a storm is approaching, where you can go to stay safe during storms or disasters, and much more. Be sure that everyone on staff knows about this storm damage restoration plan so they can reference it when disaster strikes.

Create a list of emergency numbers to keep on hand at your business, in case you need to call someone for help once the storm hits. The employees who will be working during storms or disasters should also have this information readily available so they can contact loved ones and check in with them if communication is limited after a disaster.

Set up an emergency response team.

It's important to know who you should call first in the case of a disaster or an emergency at your business. You'll want to have several key people on this team, such as local authorities (police and fire departments), rescue workers, storm damage cleanup services, insurance providers, etc. The aftermath of a storm can be chaotic so it’s important to have a proper plan and contact information for storm damage restoration.

Take inventory of what's inside your facility.

It's important to know what kind of equipment, facilities, or supplies you have inside your building. You'll want to take inventory of every piece of technology and valuable item so that if something is damaged by a storm, it can be replaced quickly without much hassle. More importantly, it will be sorted easily with storm damage cleanup services.

Stock up on emergency supplies and prepare your facility.

Include things like food, water (for both employees and any pets that are in your care), first aid kits, flashlights, batteries for radios, or other pieces of technology you may use during a storm season. Clean up the exterior of your building to limit potential damage from storms and falling objects.

Stay informed of forecasts from your local weather station.

This is one of the most important things you can do to stay safe during a storm season or a disaster. Make sure that all employees are aware of what's going on in their area and have watches, warnings, etc., readily available if necessary so they know when it might be time for an evacuation order or other emergencies.

Conclusion

As we've seen in the past couple of years, storms and disasters can hit at any time. The best thing you can do to prepare your business for storm season is come up with an emergency plan of time and have it readily available and accessible for employees, so they know what needs to be done if disaster strikes.

5 Useful Tips to Remember When Dealing with Fire Damage

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires can cause serious damage.

A fire can be a devastating experience for anyone, but it is especially hard for those who don't know what to do when faced with the aftermath of a fire. According to a 2020 report issued by the National Fire Protection Association, a fire department in the U.S responds to a fire every 24 seconds. If you’re dealing with fire damage, try not to panic and call for professional help. The best thing you can do is seek help from fire damage restoration services as soon as possible. 

Here are useful tips to remember when handling fire damage to prepare you if your home or business ever suffers an unfortunate event like this one.

Open windows in the room where fire damage has taken place for ventilation.

The first thing you should do after a fire is to get some fresh air into the room in which you have suffered from fire damage. Open all windows and doors to remove toxic smoke particles that can cause irritation of the throat, nose, or lungs and need medical attention later on. If you have a vacuum, use it to suck up any loose smoke particles from furniture, drapes, and carpets.

Turn off all electronics and objects that are near the fire damage, such as computers.

Turn off the main power supply of your home or business to prevent any risk of a fire starting again because someone left an appliance turned on that shouldn't be running until it has been checked by a professional for damage.

Avoid attempting to clean up potential hazards and dangers, including asbestos, mold, or lead paint. 

Cleaning up fire damage can release particles and dust into the air which could irritate the eyes, nose, throat, lungs, or skin. There is a risk of poisoning and it's important to leave the clean-up process up to professionals.

Call your insurance company to file a claim as soon as possible.

If you have fire damage, call your insurance company immediately even if it does not seem like anything was damaged by the blaze. There is no point in wasting time and money with unnecessary repairs or expenses when filing a claim can take care of them for you. 

Seek professional help if you are unsure about what to do next.

When it comes to fire damage, there is no time for trial and error. Seek the help of a fire & smoke restoration technician as soon as possible if you are uncertain about how to proceed after an unfortunate event like this has happened in your home or business. A fire & smoke restoration technician has access to industry-exclusive tools that allow them to get things back into the condition it was before a fire occurred – "Like it never even happened."

Conclusion

Fire damage can be a life-changing event, but it doesn't have to be devastating if you know what steps to take after the fire is put out. You can save time and money by seeking the help of fire damage restoration services right away.

Tips to Choosing the Right Water Damage Restoration Company

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can be serious.

Dealing with damage from a flood or a burst pipe in your home is stressful, and the last thing you want to do is deal with an incompetent or unprofessional water damage restoration company. It's not uncommon for people who have never dealt with flooding before to get overwhelmed by everything they need to do to handle their flooded home or business. That's why we put together this blog post about tips for choosing a water damage restoration company - because we want everyone who has been impacted by flooding to get help from an expert!

Choose a water damage restoration company that can perform the following:

Provides a thorough plan for dealing with damage.

Whether it's a business or your home, you want to work with an expert who has the tools and expertise necessary for getting started right away. A reliable and experienced water restoration technician should be able to provide accurate assessment, a checklist of things that need to be made, and an estimate of costs so you will know exactly what to do before you proceed with the water damage restoration services.

Employs certified and well-trained staff.

When looking for a water damage restoration company, look for ones that are appropriately certified and insured in your state. Moreover, consider the expertise of their water restoration technician. Find out the level of training and experience they have and if they are certified to do the job.

Responds immediately when there is an emergency.

It's critical to choose a water restoration business that can respond immediately when you call, as water damage only gets more serious with time. Choose one that responds to calls 24/7 especially that Florida is one of the top states that are most at risk of flooding.

Has a good reputation in your area.

You'll want to do your research about local water damage restoration companies before making a final decision. Look for one that has good reviews and is highly rated by its customers so you can be confident that they will do a good job. See if their customers were satisfied with the work they provided.

Knows how to help you in filing your insurance claims.

Filing for an insurance claim requires thorough documentation of the damage.  You can make a lot of mistakes while filing if you don't know what to do. The best water restoration company will have the expertise and experience in this area so you can be sure that they will handle the job properly. You want to choose a company that can help you navigate the insurance claims process so you can file a proper one that can result in full compensation.

Conclusion

When your property and life are destroyed by a water catastrophe, you require assistance that you can trust.  It can be overwhelming to deal with everything on your own, but you must take the actions necessary to restore things in order. By following these few tips, we hope you can hire expert water damage restoration services that can help your property look new again.

Basic Procedure For a Fire Restoration Project

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damaged room

Seeing your home go up in flames can be an emotionally draining experience. However, you have to act quickly to prevent further destruction. Any delay could potentially drive the damage cleaning costs through the roof as the structure sustains more water damage, and mold builds up in the walls.
Here’s the basic procedure for a fire restoration project:

• Initial contact
• Assessment
• Board up and tarp
• Cleanup and rebuilding
  
  

Call a Restoration Company

Call a fire restoration service as the first thing you do after getting off the phone with insurance. Regardless of the time of day, a representative from the cleanup service should pick your call and schedule an inspection ASAP. Consider that as an essential feature of a restoration company when shopping around.

Inspection

The cleanup service should come to check out the damage. During this visit, the expert will be assessing the extent of fire, soot, and smoke damage throughout the house. They will also identify things that can be salvaged and those that need replacement. At the end of this exercise, the service should be able to give an accurate quote for the job.

Board up and Tarp Services

On the first day of work, the restoration team will start by sealing any holes in the house. For example, if a fire burns a hole through the roof, sealing it will keep rainwater out, preventing further water damage and mold growth.

Clean up and Rebuilding

Your average restoration services will clean up the soot, get rid of burnt materials, and remove water from a fire-damaged home. Only the best will go the extra mile to rebuild the structure and make it habitable. Look for a service that covers cleanup to finishing work and everything in between.
Generally speaking, fire restoration is a multistep process that will breathe life into your burnt structure, making it a home again.

How Do You Get a Mold Assessment for Your Home?

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

Mold is likely to grow somewhere in your home at some point.

Before a home can have its mold problem addressed, it needs to have a high-quality mold assessment done. There are two basic ways to do this: either run a DIY test or have a professional inspection. In all cases, experts recommend having a professional do it.

What Is Black Mold?

In its natural environment, mold is kept in careful check by the sun. It can only grow in areas almost continuously in shade and subject to dampness. It also must compete with other fungi for the nutrients needed for its growth when it grows outside.
All mold needs lots of moisture to grow. Inside a home, this normally comes from sources such as

• Plumbing leaks
• Sewer leaks
• Roof leaks
  
  

Mold can really find a safe harbor indoors. It loves to grow on cellulose, such as that found in wallboard and wood. Plus, mold spores are everywhere, with hundreds found in a typical cubic meter of air. This is normally harmless and of no concern. However, it becomes a problem when exposed to frequent excess moisture.

What Is a Mold Assessment?
When a mold remediation expert performs an inspection, it doesn’t just include a test. They bring commercial equipment, such as a hygrometer and infrared camera, to search for hidden water leaks.
Black mold is a serious problem, but even worse is the water damage being caused by the leak. If it goes on long, it can easily cause thousands of dollars in damage – and it might not be covered by insurance if you’re found negligent. Indoor mold growth is always a key sign of dampness getting where it shouldn’t, so never ignore it.
However, it differs from mildew. Mold only grows on porous surfaces with nutrients available as food. Mildew grows on grout and tile and usually can be easily cleaned up by the homeowner with a solution of bleach and water.
A good mold assessment can find hidden water leaks before they cause severe damage. A simple DIY test isn’t enough information to make a proper appraisal, though.

3 Ways to Mitigate Wind Damage

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

Wind can cause serious damage to your home.

Three Ways To Limit Wind Damage

Damage caused by wind can occur alongside storm damage or separately due to strong gusts. In the worst-case scenario, wind damage to the roof, windows or any other part of a commercial structure could result in a roof leak or expose the interior. Here are three ways to limit wind damage to the exterior and interior of a commercial building.

1. Inspect a Structure for Wind Damage
After a windstorm subsides, the owner or manager of a commercial building can identify several signs of damage. Missing shingles may be evident on a pitched roof or on the ground. It may also be helpful to go up on the roof or arrange for a professional roof inspection after windy weather.

2. Board Up or Tarp Over Breaches
Any breaches in a structure should be covered. While missing roofing materials may lead to a roof leak, a broken window or damaged door can leave a building open to the intrusion of flying debris, rain or trespassers. Board up accessible openings in a building or use tarps and anchor boards to prevent rain from penetrating into damaged roofing until repairs take place.

3. Restore Damage As Soon As Possible
It is a good idea to repair a damaged roof or other types of damage caused by wind sooner rather than later. Even if high winds are expected to continue, a well-maintained or recently repaired structure may be less susceptible to repeated damage, whereas a structure that has already sustained damage may suffer more severe storm damage.
High winds can cause a roof leak and damage the enclosure of a commercial building. If loose flashing or the failure of a window or door compromises any part of a structure, storm damage restoration will be necessary to address external problems that expose a building interior to storm damage.

Why Mold Grows in HVAC Air Ducts

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

You can find mold growth in the humid and dark areas of your HVAC system.

Mold can grow in most areas of commercial buildings in DeLand, Florida, especially if they provide the right conditions. Its effects are dangerous for building materials, causing severe damage if left untreated. HVAC systems circulate mold around the building and provide the humid conditions it needs to thrive. HVAC cleaning is especially important for commercial buildings to prevent the growth of unwanted mold.

The Conditions for Mold Growth in HVAC Systems

You can find mold growth in the humid and dark areas of your HVAC system, such as:

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

Mold thrives in moist environmental conditions where it can find a host with the right nutrients. The dust in the ducts provides mold with nutrients and the dark, humid environment gives it the preferable conditions to grow. If the drip pan and AC evaporator coil are not cleaned regularly, they can also provide fungus the essential conditions for growth. It is important to conduct routine HVAC cleaning to prevent these parts from becoming worn or damaged.

Mold Prevention for HVAC Systems
To prevent mold growth on HVAC systems, make sure the air filters are routinely cleaned or replaced. HEPA filters are capable of filtering out the smallest air particles, making them ideal for filtering mold spores. Regular professional HVAC maintenance is also an essential part of mold prevention. It is recommended that this be done twice a year for commercial buildings. Routinely inspect your HVAC system for mold on air vents. Cleaning vents regularly will also prevent additional mold particles from circulating through your HVAC system.
Regular HVAC cleaning is necessary for mold prevention for commercial buildings and should be done by a professional mold cleaning service at least twice a year. If you have mold damage in your building, it is likely the mold is traveling through your HVAC system. Good filtration and regular maintenance can prevent mold growth and make your commercial building a cleaner, health-friendly environment.

4 Candle Alternatives for Fire Safety

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Strings of lights are designed with fire safety in mind

Here are Four Fire-Safe Candle Alternatives

Candles are used to create decorative lighting effects or release fragrances. Whether you are looking for safer mood lighting or a way to diffuse a scent without any risk of a candle fire, here are four fire-safe candle alternatives.

1. Battery-Powered Candles

A flameless electric alternative to candles can be placed anywhere for decorative or lighting purposes. Electric candles come in a wide variety of colors, heights, thicknesses and designs. Some battery-powered models are also designed to release fragrances.

2. Strings of Lights

Another way to get a candle-lit look is to string up Christmas or fairy lights. Strings of lights are designed with fire safety in mind. Choose from strands of single-color or multicolor bulbs. It is also possible to set up lights to blink or flicker if desired. Ultra-efficient LED bulbs make replacements affordable and keep energy costs low.

3. Candle Warmers

A candle warmer may be the best option among these candle alternatives for fans of scented candles. A warmer makes it possible to enjoy these fragrances with a much lower fire risk. A warmer may be a base on which a candle sits or resemble a lamp.

4. Diffusers

Reed diffusers do not resemble candles. For a different look, reeds in oil can be an attractive, creative and flameless way to release a scent. Diffusers have an even lower risk of fire than an electric candle warmer.

Most candle fires occur around the holidays. Battery-powered candle alternatives and strings of lights are safer options for illuminated decorations. Warmers and diffusers are useful for spreading a fragrance throughout a home with a lower risk of fire. If a fire starts due to a candle or any other cause, you should attempt to extinguish the flames or contact the fire department. Fire damage restoration experts can restore or replace damaged building materials at a residence in Volusia County.

Routine Bathroom Maintenance Can Prevent Leaks

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Bathroom maintenance can prevent leaks

Timely Bathroom Maintenance Can Prevent Leaks

If you own a home or rent, it's a good idea to become familiar with your plumbing system. This could save you time and money as well as prevent a major problem. The mainline brings freshwater into your building, and from there, you have several supply lines that eventually bring water to individual faucets and appliances, often by way of smaller branch lines. Supply line damage, since it usually carries a large amount of water, can quickly flood your home in Seminole County. Therefore, a smart homeowner pays attention to the condition of the supply lines.

The Need for Maintenance
If you have resided in your location for years, you might even know the history of your supply lines and when they last received maintenance. Knowing the following facts will help you keep tabs on the potential for a supply line leak:

• The age of the pipes
• The material of the pipes
• The date of the last major plumbing upgrade
• The length of any warranty from the plumbing contractor or the pipe manufacturer
  
  

Some materials last longer than others. Plastic piping becomes vulnerable to supply line damage after about five to eight years; of course, it could last much longer, but it usually will be not be warrantied for any longer. On the other hand, steel braided piping often has a lifetime warranty on materials.

The Need for Water Cleanup
Whether it is from supply line damage or a bathroom leak, water escaping into your home is a serious problem. A professional water remediation team can act quickly to limit the damage. Trained technicians will arrive Faster to Any Size Disaster and remove standing water before it has had time to cause structural damage to floors and walls. They will use powerful vacuums and air dryers to rid the home of excessive humidity, which is often a condition that invites mold growth. If you suspect your supply lines are worn, it might be time to have a plumbing contractor check things out.

What Is Causing Ceiling Tile Discoloration?

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water and mold damaged ceiling

Three Causes Of Ceiling Tile Discoloration

Most commercial facilities have drop ceilings with ceiling tiles. It is not uncommon for these tiles to become damaged over time and require replacement. However, many facility managers may be disheartened to find a single tile or several tiles with stains and assume tile mold. While your mind may immediately jump to mold growth, any remediation service in Volusia County will likely explain that mold is possible, but there are at least three other causes, especially if the staining is recent.

1. Plumbing problem
2. Roof leak
3. HVAC system issue

Plumbing Problem
If your facility is multi-story, then the tile discoloration is likely the result of plumbing issues and not tile mold. Ceiling tiles are incredibly porous and will soak in the water, causing a stain to appear on the other side. Fresh water stains typically look damp; they will likely turn the tile a shade of gray, especially if the tile is a lighter color naturally.

Roof Leak
If your facility is a single-story, then you may have a more significant issue than a minor plumbing leak. A roof leak can also result in the discoloration of ceiling tiles because of water damage. You may want to inspect your roof around the area of the staining to ensure that there is no existing external damage.

HVAC System Issue
If your facility has roof-mounted HVAC units, it is possible that the staining is a result of leaking from the condensation line or system and not mold. If you have an A/C unit above or near where the staining appeared, then you may want to contact an HVAC repair specialist.
While tile mold is a concern for any business because of the inevitable business interruption, it is not always the reason for tile staining. If you are genuinely concerned about the possibility of mold and cannot find any other likely causes for the staining, then contact a mold remediation company for a property assessment.

We Are Certified

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

We are water damage experts.

At SERVPRO of West Volusia we pride ourselves on having trained, IICRC Certified employees and state of the art equipment. Our ability to take moisture readings and see what's happening "inside" your walls with our infrared camera(s), enable us to insure we will dry your property out properly. We take moisture readings daily, entering those readings into our drybook logs, giving us the information we need to do our job and giving you the peace of mind that you made the right decision in calling SERVPRO. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia is ready to respond to any size water damage, commercial or residential, 24/hours a day; 7/days a week. A live person always answers your call to assess your situation immediately and respond accordingly. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia 386-574-0864

"Like it never even happened."

Emergency Ready Plan

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Does your business have an Emergency Ready Plan?

When you have a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) in place for your business, you are ready for whatever happens! 

SERVPRO of West Volusia can provide your company with an ERP individually tailored to your needs. Here's what it does: 

• Identifies a point of contact able to authorize work orders. This allows us to be able to quickly get to work repairing any damage in the event of a water or fire damage.
• Provides significant details on valve shut off locations, identifies areas with important safety equipment and presents emergency contact information and notes. This allows any employee you wish to have easy access to vital emergency information in the event that damage occurs. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia is here to help protect your business by helping you get prepared! Give us a call today: (386) 574-0864

Tornado Safety Plan, What You Need To know

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have a Tornado Safety Plan?

We do not see them very often in Central Florida. However, during some major storms, the threat of a tornado can become very real, very quickly.

SERVPRO of West Volusia County specializes in flooding and storm damage restoration, but our first priority is you. That's why we wanted to share a few safety tips with you so that in the event of a tornado, you know what to do. 

• It is important to know the difference between Tornado Watches and Tornado Warnings. If a Tornado Watch is issued for your area, it means that weather conditions are favorable for a tornado to occur. If a Tornado Warning is issued in your area, it means a tornado has been detected in your area and you should seek shelter immediately. 
• If a tornado warning is issued in your area, make sure that everyone in the home goes to an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. Usually, this would be a basement, closet or bathroom.
• It is always a good idea to have a portable battery-operated radio. That way in the event of a tornado you are able to still listen to weather warnings and updates from your safe room. 

In the event that damage occurs to your home or place of business due to a major storm...SERVPRO of West Volusia County is here for you. Give us a call at (386) 574-0864

How To Prevent Flooding In Your Central Florida Home

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Is Here To Help!

Flooding can happen anywhere and if you live in Florida, you know even one of our heavy afternoon thunderstorms can ensure flooding can happen "any time" as well. 

It's a scary thought to think that your home could be underwater at a moment's notice.

So we thought we would share a few tips that can help you stay flood-free. 

1. Water flow - How does water flow around your house? It's important that it flows away from the structure. If it is noted that this is not the case, you may want to call an irrigation specialist to see if it is possible to correct it.
2. Water valves - Two words: modify them. So many times in flooding cases we see sewage backup and overflow. That is the LAST thing you want to be dealing with, so it may be worth it to look at installing a back-flow valve.  
3. Lastly, in the event that you believe flooding is about to occur, move as many items as you can away from the rising water (electronics especially). Then give us a call, and we will be out there ASAP to help! 

If you experience flooding or water damage, give us a call at (386) 574-0864.

5 Tips To Prevent Water Damage

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Here are 5 useful tips to prevent water damage to your home.

A few quick and easy tips may help in preventing water damage in your home...Check them out below!

1. Plan before you plant any trees or plants. Make sure you know where irrigation systems run to ensure that you keep roots away from growing near any water lines.
2. We cannot share this one enough, clean your gutters! Clogged gutters are a huge culprit of water damage and can not only cause flooding but mold growth as water seeps into a home's foundation. 
3. Water leaks can sometimes go completely unnoticed. A good way to try and prevent this is to pay attention to your water bill. If it is much higher than you think it should be, you may have a leak in your home. 
4. When you need to unclog a drain, use a drain snake rather than unclogging chemicals. This can help ensure that the chemicals do not eat away at your pipes making them more susceptible to water leaks. 
5. Finally, DO NOT pour grease down the sink. It is a huge factor in clogged water pipes and can cause leaks and water damage to your home. 

In the event of water damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of West Volusia County to make it disappear! (386) 574-0864

What To Do When Your Home Is Fire Damaged

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Never leave your stove unattended!

When you have experienced a fire in your home, one of the first things you want to do is call your insurance company. Find out everything you can about your policy to ensure that you know exactly what it will cost you to begin the repairs. 

Then, you call us.

We are leading experts in fire restoration for homes and commercial properties; and we are here for you 24/7 every single day. 

As soon as you call we will set up a time to come to your home and assess the damage. From there, we will help you make a plan begin the restoration process. 

Fires can leave the affected area looking completely destroyed. So, one of the first things we will do is clean up! This includes water extraction, smoke and soot removal from floors, walls and ceilings, and cleaning all restorable items that were damaged by the fire. 

We will also try and protect your home from any further damage by tarping part of the roof or boarding up windows and doors if needed. 

Finally, the restoration process begins and we work to restore your home to pre-fire condition, "Like it never even happened." 

If your home or commercial property has recently been damaged by a fire, give us a call at: (386) 574-0864.

What's The Difference Between Partial Losses and Total Losses?

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy Floor Damage

A partial loss indicates that a structure was not irreparably damaged. In general, this level of damage may require restoration and repairs, but not a complete rebuild. Find out how to determine the extent of fire loss at a commercial building in West Volusia County.

The Damage Is Limited

If a particular area of a structure has sustained fire damage while other areas are only affected by heat or smoke, the loss is likely to be partial. The following are some of the most common forms of partial loss:

• Burnt or charred building materials or contents
• Heat-damaged building materials or contents
• Smoke-damaged building materials or contents
  
  

Buildings that remain structurally sound can still suffer an extensive partial loss. An actual total loss involves a situation in which a property has burned down or sustained such extensive structural damage that a complete rebuild is necessary.

Restoration Is An Option
A fire loss is likely partial if a building can be cleaned and restored. This even applies to situations in which a certain portion of a structure sustains significant damage and may have to be rebuilt, but the building remains structurally sound on the whole and safe for occupation after cleaning and restoration.

Contents Can Be Restored or Replaced
Fire damage at a commercial building is likely to involve damaged contents. Getting a professional verdict on the condition of equipment can facilitate claim settlement. Any assessment should account for fire, heat and smoke damage. It is helpful to have an insurance policy that covers replacement costs rather than actual cash value with depreciation.
In the event of a partial fire loss, cleanup and restoration experts should check for hidden damage. Fire damage that appears minor may actually be more extensive. Experienced fire restoration professionals can inspect and accurately identify the extent of loss for the purpose of making a commercial property insurance claim.

Fire Damage Restoration 101

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage In A Kitchen

Basic Procedure For a Fire Restoration Project

Seeing your home go up in flames can be an emotionally draining experience. However, you have to act quickly to prevent further destruction. Any delay could potentially drive the damage cleaning costs through the roof as the structure sustains more water damage, and mold builds up in the walls.
Here’s the basic procedure for a fire restoration project in Central Florida:

• Initial contact
• Assessment
• Board up and tarp
• Cleanup and rebuilding
  
  

Call a Restoration Company

Call a fire restoration service as the first thing you do after getting off the phone with insurance. Regardless of the time of day, a representative from the cleanup service should pick your call and schedule an inspection ASAP. Consider that as an essential feature of a restoration company when shopping around.

Inspection

The cleanup service should come to check out the damage. During this visit, the expert will be assessing the extent of fire, soot and smoke damage throughout the house. They will also identify things that can be salvaged and those that need replacement. At the end of this exercise, the service should be able to give an accurate quote for the job.

Board up and Tarp Services

On the first day of work, the restoration team will start by sealing any holes in the house. For example, if a fire burns a hole through the roof, sealing it will keep rainwater out, preventing further water damage and mold growth.

Clean up and Rebuilding

Your average restoration services will clean up the soot, get rid of burnt materials, and remove water from a fire-damaged home. Only the best will go the extra mile to rebuild the structure and make it habitable. Look for a service that covers cleanup to finishing work and everything in between.
Generally speaking, fire restoration is a multistep process that will breathe life into your burnt structure, making it a home again.

How Many Smoke Detectors Should I Have In My Home

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

A Smoke Detector

Top Reasons One Fire Alarm Isn't Enough

The value of smoke detectors has been well established. Experts estimate that having a fire alarm in your house can significantly cut the risk of fire damage or injuries. But many homeowners think just one alarm is enough to reduce the risk. The truth is that not having enough alarms in your West Volusia home can be almost as bad as having none at all. In fact, there are several reasons why one alarm isn’t typically enough.
Public awareness has made fire detectors one of the most common fire-prevention devices in a home. As a result of public awareness efforts:

• As many as 96 percent of American homes are believed to have alarms
• Smoke alarms have contributed to cutting the risk of home fire fatalities by nearly half
  
  

Clearly any alarm is better than none. But to be effective, it’s key that you have more than just one.

One Per Room

It’s natural to think that an alarm in a common area is enough. But experts say at a minimum, you should have one alarm per room. This can help protect your property against fires that can start in unexpected places like bathrooms.

Bigger Means More

A typical detector is only effective for about a 900 square-foot area of a building. Use your home’s measurements when buying detectors. For example, a 2,000 square-foot home should have at least three alarms.

Level Up

Fires that start on one level often result in destruction to other levels of the home. This can be prevented by having detectors on every level, which experts suggest.
Having at least one fire alarm definitely increases your protection against a fire. Take things a step further by equipping your home with the ideal number of alarms. Use these tips or talk to your local fire and smoke damage cleanup experts to learn more about how many alarms your home truly needs.

Where To Find Water Leaks In Your Business

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Office water leak from a broken pipe

Every year many businesses are affected by water leaks that have long gone unnoticed. A leak can not only cause a significant amount of damage to your building and its contents, but it can also skyrocket your water bill. So as a business owner, it is good to know where you can look for potential water leaks. 

The drip … drip … drip of a water leak seems harmless enough, but multiply those drips and they can become a giant problem. It’s a good idea to regularly inspect and identify spots where water leaks are most likely to occur.

1. Leaky Toilets Are Good Place To Start

Commercial buildings typically have several toilets. You can see and hear many toilet leaks, but sometimes they aren’t visible or audible. In most cases, a sure indicator would be your water meter, but toilet leaks tend to be slow. If you can determine that your water use has dramatically risen, a malfunctioning toilet isn’t probably the culprit.

2. Leaky Faucets Are Common

Even a small drip can lead to a large loss of water over time. If you have one faucet that drips one drop per second, approximately five gallons of water would be wasted every day. That’s over 2,000 gallons each year. Fortunately, most leaky faucets are easy to repair and usually involve the replacement of washers.

3. Leaky Underground Pipes Can Go Unnoticed

If water main pipes spring a leak on your side of the meter, you'll be responsible for paying the bill. The water bill may be the only indication that there’s a water leak. You won’t know that there’s a possibly even a pipe break until you receive your monthly water bill unless you monitor your water consumption weekly. Talk to your provider and see what they can do in terms of weekly monitoring until the problem is resolved.

4. Leaky Plumbing Can Affect Everything

Pipes are located throughout buildings. So, leaks can occur behind walls, above ceilings, and under flooring. Sometimes the only way you realize that there’s a leak is noticing wet drywall, discolored ceiling tiles, mold or smelling a musty odor.
If your Volusia County, commercial building sustains water damage from a water leak, be sure to hire restoration professionals. They'll return it to its preloss condition as soon as possible.

Where To Find Water Leaks In Your Business

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Of West Volusia

Every year many businesses are affected by water leaks that have long gone unnoticed. A leak can not only cause a significant amount of damage to your building and its contents, but it can also skyrocket your water bill. So as a business owner, it is good to know where you can look for potential water leaks. 

The drip … drip … drip of a water leak seems harmless enough, but multiply those drips and they can become a giant problem. It’s a good idea to regularly inspect and identify spots where water leaks are most likely to occur.

1. Leaky Toilets Are Good Place To Start

Commercial buildings typically have several toilets. You can see and hear many toilet leaks, but sometimes they aren’t visible or audible. In most cases, a sure indicator would be your water meter, but toilet leaks tend to be slow. If you can determine that your water use has dramatically risen, a malfunctioning toilet isn’t probably the culprit.

2. Leaky Faucets Are Common

Even a small drip can lead to a large loss of water over time. If you have one faucet that drips one drop per second, approximately five gallons of water would be wasted every day. That’s over 2,000 gallons each year. Fortunately, most leaky faucets are easy to repair and usually involve the replacement of washers.

3. Leaky Underground Pipes Can Go Unnoticed

If water main pipes spring a leak on your side of the meter, you'll be responsible for paying the bill. The water bill may be the only indication that there’s a water leak. You won’t know that there’s a possibly even a pipe break until you receive your monthly water bill unless you monitor your water consumption weekly. Talk to your provider and see what they can do in terms of weekly monitoring until the problem is resolved.

4. Leaky Plumbing Can Affect Everything

Pipes are located throughout buildings. So, leaks can occur behind walls, above ceilings, and under flooring. Sometimes the only way you realize that there’s a leak is noticing wet drywall, discolored ceiling tiles, mold or smelling a musty odor.
If your Volusia County, commercial building sustains water damage from a water leak, be sure to hire restoration professionals. They'll return it to its preloss condition as soon as possible.

Why Choose SERVPRO Of West Volusia County

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Volusia County

Forces of nature, appliance and plumbing problems can lead to severe flooding in the interior of a home or office. There are precautions one can take to reduce the damage, but water damages can still occur. When it does occur, one needs to take the next logical step. It becomes important to hire a water removal specialist. A specialist can do exactly what is necessary to restore a water-damaged environment to its original state. And that is exactly who we are and what we do here at SERVPRO of West Volusia County.

Why Choose Us

There are several important functions a specialist must perform. One of the most important is to properly extract the water from the environment.

Once the water has been removed, it becomes important to properly take care of the damage that has been done to the property. An individual can only perform this with a clear eye for the process. A water damage professional can spot wear, tear, and damage that a novice would not. This is another reason why it is necessary to call in the services of a professional, such as SERVPRO Of West Volusia.

A water damage specialist can then perform all the work needed to restore a home to its original condition. This is a critical point because if the property is not repaired in the aftermath of the water damage, it can present great safety risks. This increases the liabilities a homeowner can face after water damage.

Proper repair work can also restore the value of the property. This is very important because no one would want to see the equity of his or her home decline. Water repair specialists can work tremendously well in terms of restoring the value of a home. That alone makes the value of a repair specialist extremely significant.

If you've encountered a large leak or a flood, a specialist will have all the equipment needed to take care of the situation quickly and simply. If there is a lot of water that you think you can take care of yourself, assess whether you think structural damage can occur within the extra time it may take you as opposed to a specialist. 

Depending on what type of water there is, it could be harmful to your health. You should always call in a professional to get the job done. Once all the water is extracted or pumped out you would have to completely dry out the whole area. SERVPRO owns several large, high power drying fans to prevent further damage. Further damage, if not dried completely in a reasonable amount of time, could result in the growth of mold. In some cases, a water specialist may offer much lower prices and more accurate work than a regular plumber.

A SERVPRO specialist can handle septic systems, broken dishwashers or other plumbing or water utility device issues. If a strange smell in your home just won't go away, consider calling a water damage specialist at your local SERVPRO of West Volusia.

How Realtors Benefit From SERVPRO Of West Volusia

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Of West Volusia is here to help!

Every realtor knows that clean homes sell faster. 

Dirty air ducts can circulate odors and contaminants like mold and irritating dust throughout a home. In Florida, we also understand the increased potential for previously undetected mold growth in any given home. Any leaks, water stains, or lingering odors can also be a sign of a larger issue. 

It could be possible that your sellers may have problem spots to address before you list or schedule a home inspection. However, a lot of times realtors are the first ones to spot the issue. Either way, make sure you get a professional to address the problem(s). That way, you are less likely to run into issues during the buyer inspection. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia is here to help with any of these issues and more! Give us a call today, for a free mold inspection or assessment:(386) 574-0864.

Community Cleanup Day!

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO West Volusia, we take cleaning up very seriously because after all, that's our job! 

Cleaning things up is our specialty, but not only do we cleanup residential and commercial spaces, we also love to help keep our community clean as well. That's why we will joining local Sanford residents on October 18th for Community Cleanup Day where we will spend some time strolling through the city of Sanford picking up litter and disposing of it properly. 

We sincerely care about our community, and always try to step up to the plate to keep improving the environment we all live in. Even something so simple as walking around town with friends and picking up litter can not only provide a small impact, but also set the example for what others can do in for their community. 

The Sanford Community Cleanup Day takes place on October 18th, 2020 from 9am to 10am. If you are interested in helping out, we will be meeting at Sunshine State Threads in Sanford, Florida. 

Gas And Water Shutoffs For Commercial Buildings

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial property managers usually gloss over where their building's gas and water valves are located when they first settle into a property. Sooner or later, a leak may occur and unnecessary damage can happen to the building if the property manager doesn't know where the shutoff valves are. 

Knowing where the gas and water shutoffs are can potentially save you thousands of dollars on a damage restoration job. So knowing where the shutoffs are and properly labeling them can be extremely beneficial as you won't have to wait for the city or fire department to locate and shut them off for you. 

In the case of sprinklers that malfunction and turn on, just 1 minute less of water flowing could cut days off of a drying project.

If you don't already, make sure you put together a plan of where the following shutoffs are for gas, water, and electric.

Commercial buildings oftentimes require elevated training and equipment to dry and repair.

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 situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan Advantage

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

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.

Don't Trust Us, Test us

SERVPRO 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.

Call SERVPRO Of West Volusia County Today to set up a Emergency ready Profile at no cost! 386-574-0864

Storm Damage Remediation In West Volusia County

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

Although There are Several Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Companies Out There, Only a Few Like SERVPRO Can Do The Job Right

Florida is infamous for its stormy, rainy weather. This weather and being surrounded by large bodies of water makes Florida especially prone to flooding.

So, area homeowners have to accept this ever-present risk. With that said, however, there are important ways you can limit storm flood damage and options for having it fixed. Prevention, of course, is always the best way to avoid related losses. Unfortunately, preventative measures may not always be possible. When this is the case, and flooding does impact your home, rest assured that services like SERVPRO of West Volusia can help you clean and restore your house.  

Why are Services Like SERVPRO Better Than Others in Volusia County?

There are several critical benefits to enlisting the help of a skilled and highly experienced storm flood damage company like SERVPRO of West Volusia. Some of these benefits are:

• Our company's technicians, certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), completes the work correctly the first time.
• Our trained experts complete your job. We certify each of our professionals in health and safety, applied microbial remediation, applied structural drying, water damage restoration, and odor control.
• We have access to vehicles and equipment from the 1,700 other firms in our chain as a franchise in a nationwide chain.
• We can use a disaster recovery team to help resolve any major loss event you may experience.
• Our technicians have all the right tools to scientifically clean and restore your home. These tools include extractors, wet vacs, moisture meters/sensors, thermohygrometers, desiccant and refrigerant dehumidifiers, air movers, injectidry systems, powerful fungicides and disinfectants, and high-tech foggers.  

With our professional workforce and equipment, we are often able to clean and restore your residence to pre-flood conditions in much less time than other service providers. Many times, this enables us to save you considerable time and money.

What are Some Preventative Measures I Can Take to Limit Potential Flood Damage?

Before severe storms, you should take some steps to limit potential flood damage. The following preventative actions, while not always entirely effective, do improve your odds of escaping the worst outcomes:

• Shutting-off your utilities before leaving your home
• Waterproofing your foundation
• Ensuring that your roof is in good condition and not leaking
• Making sure your gutters are clean and in good working order
• Using plywood to protect all windows and openings
• Diverting floodwaters with sandbags

These measures allow your house to weather Florida's severe storms and flooding for a while and work best against storms of shorter durations. Of course, the worst natural disasters usually overcome these defenses quite easily. In these cases, you certainly need the help of Seattle area cleaning and restoration professionals.

How Does SERVPRO Help Me with My Storm Damage Volusia County?

Once you call SERVPRO of West Volusia, there are several things we can do to help you. Our services generally include inspections, property securing, floodwater cleanup, hazardous waste disposal, microorganism elimination, home interior drying, and deodorization. When we arrive at your home, workers usually:

• Determine your residence’s level of water damage
• Extract standing floodwater from your home
• Remove fallen trees, other debris, and hazardous waste from your property
• Use EPA-approved disinfectants and fungicides to eliminate harmful microorganisms in your home
• Dry your home’s interior until it reaches a scientifically determined drying goal
• Deodorize everything, removing all unwanted flood-related odors
• Secure your home, if necessary, against the elements and would-be trespassers by placing roof tarps, installing fences, and boarding up windows and other openings

These actions effectively restore your home to pre-flood conditions and help prevent potential future issues.

Whenever you hear of a major storm’s approach, remember to prepare your home for possible flooding adequately. Simply waterproofing your foundation, ensuring your roof’s drainage system is functioning correctly, trimming dangerous overhanging tree limbs, boarding up windows and other openings, and sandbagging critical areas around your house can go a long way to protecting your housing investment. In many cases, all this should save your residence from the worst storm-connected damage.

There are times, of course, when whatever you do, you cannot save your property from significant injury. However, during those times, always remember that often even the worst flood damage can be remediated. When and if you do experience such weather-related losses, do your research and contact a good cleaning and restoration company to solve your problem. If you are ever unsure of anything and need help, you can always call SERVPRO of West Volusia County at (386) 574-0864.

Why SERVPRO is the First Choice for Water, Fire, Storm, and Mold Damage Restoration Needs

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

When disasters cause home and commercial restoration emergencies, remember SERVPRO Of West Volusia County is always available for your restoration needs. For nearly 40 years, we have been the go-to for West Volusia County residents for all fo their water and fire cleanup & restoration.

40 Years Of Excellence

West Volusia County residents use restoration services when unexpected home emergencies occur. By doing so, they can often save thousands of dollars in potential secondary damages that may occur as a result of improper or home restoration services. Our company has been a stalwart in the community of Volusia County for several years. It partakes in regular donations of both money and time to charity missions like clothing drives or children's shelters. Throughout the year, our servicemen and women are on-hand to help you overcome an emergency with minimum inconvenience and expense. Contact us anytime to arrange restoration services for water, mold, storm, or fire-related damages.

Water Damage Restoration

Homeowners may experience water damage in their Florida home at any time of year. These can be either in the form of excessive quantities of moisture in a short period overloading a home's defenses, or long-term problems creeping up over several months. Whether your home falls victim to flooding or a slow internal leaking, our water restoration technicians (WRT) are on-hand to provide the assistance you need. SERVPRO of West Volusia is available twenty-four-hours a day and even runs an out-of-hours service for emergencies.

Water incidents in your property can cause a chain reaction of interrelated issues. These issues may include problems with odor, microbial bacteria, fungi, or soiling of your possessions. SERVPRO Of West Volusia's restoration services are comprehensive in their approach to your Seattle home and can stop damage as well as putting in place proven methods to reverse it. Usually, we start by thoroughly removing water from the property, then drying using proper drying methods.

Bringing venting box fans to your Seattle home, as well as the careful placement of portable heating, can help to encourage natural evaporation. Natural evaporation is useful in removing moisture that may have absorbed into furnishings, upholstery, or flooring. Using moisture probes, SERVPRO Of West Volusia can accurately assess the moisture content of any given material and can keep returning during the restoration service to ensure reaching our goals.

Mold Remediation

Indoor air quality is becoming increasingly prominent in the restoration service industry. Often, homeowners are surprised by quite how many toxins can exist in a home environment. The issue is especially pertinent in homeowners that have mold damage in their homes. Molds breed by releasing microscopic spores into the surrounding atmosphere. These spores can cause unpleasant odors as well as ingestion when inhaling indoor air. SERVPRO takes decisive action during mold remediation to ensure the spread is limited and your air-quality restored.

Setting up containment is an essential part of the restoration. Usually, an area of your Seattle home that shows evidence of mold growth needs quarantining. The removal of mold colonies or demolition of infested materials increases airborne spores. SERVPRO applies negative air pressure when performing controlled demolitions to ensure that the spread of spores is under control. Also, we may use physical barriers such as polyurethane sheeting to prevent microscopic spores from escaping.

Airborne particles are frequently invisible to the naked eye. This invisibility makes it challenging for a homeowner to assess or act against unwanted indoor air particles. Using high-efficiency particulate air-filters (HEPA), SERVPRO technicians can remove particles from the air that are as small as 0.3 microns. Air scrubbing equipment combined with deodorizing methods saves time on the turnaround of your restoration service.

Storm Damage Restoration

Storms can expose your home to outdoor elements as well as pathogens that may enter in floodwaters. Extraction is the most effective method of controlling storm damage in your Seattle home. However, to be truly useful, you need to combine rapid extraction with careful cleaning and drying. At SERVPRO, we often find homeowners suffering from microbial growth or mold issues traced back to initial flooding several weeks or months before.

Our restoration services focus on a complete, thorough approach to both removal and drying of moisture in your Florida home. When water is extracted and dried, it can leave behind microbes or stain on the flooring materials of your home. We use rotary floor machines to both loosen soiling from hard surfaces and apply pre-conditioning agents to soft ones like carpets. Rotary machines not only help to dislodge severe soiling but can help to buffer floors and leave them in a preloss condition.

Flooding as a result of stormy conditions can seem unfair. SERVPRO can help you to redress the balance by providing professional technicians who can complete the job on time and on-budget. If the damage necessitates relocation temporarily, we can perform the vital mitigation tasks needed to prevent your home from suffering permanent damage in the interim period. SERVPRO restoration services are available to all residents of Seattle in an emergency.

Fire Damage Restoration

If your heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system are on, it can cause extensive fire damage to your home. Air entering the supply side can overload filters causing hot smokes to travel through ventilation shafts. Return side outlets can then end up spewing soots, odor, and ash into unaffected regions of the house. SERVPRO restoration services incorporate a comprehensive game plan for HVAC inspection, cleaning, and replacement of ventilation ducts.

Hot smokes are attracted to cooler surfaces, which include the metal insides of a ventilation shaft. These can deposit thick soiling onto the inner sides of an HVAC system, which can be challenging and technical to clean. SERVPRO restoration services here in Seattle can remove both return and supply-side air ducts to carry out in-depth inspections. Using air whips, we can dislodge loose soiling, which can then vacuum out using negative air pressure machines. Cleaning of the interior closest to the wall- where soiling builds up- can be cleaned using water and oil-based solvents.

Once your HVAC is clean, we can begin to perform repairs. Cavities opened with a circular drill for negative air pressure machine access can be resealed using aluminum plating. We can replace ducts in every room inexpensively. Return side ventilation filters need replacing to ensure that odor remains under control, and your home brought to a preloss condition.

Home emergencies are unexpected and, at times, seem unfair. Contact SERVPRO of West Volusia at (386) 574-0684 for assistance with mold, storm, fire, or water-related incidents.

My Office is Flooded!

5/16/2020 (Permalink)

Water intrusion may be more severe in commercial buildings than in a residential setting, and the effects can be more extensive. Many commercial structures have larger volumes of water entering the premises through plumbing supply lines and at a higher water pressure. The quantity of outgoing sewage is also greater than a typical residence. Commercial buildings are certainly larger than your average residence, so entry points for water intrusion through areas like the roof, exterior walls or windows are commensurately greater in number.

Water intrusion in commercial buildings can damage high-value equipment like computers and also building services such as HVAC, lighting, elevators and security equipment. Common long-term consequences of water damage like mold or microbial growth may be more problematic than in a home, due to the larger occupancy of a business or other commercial enterprise. When a greater number of people with a wider range of sensitivity are exposed to mold and bacteria spores, health impacts may be significantly magnified, perhaps leading to an enforced closure of the facility until the situation is fully remediated.

Typical issues from water intrusion in the commercial environment include:

• Water from roof leaks penetrating through ceilings. Chronic leakage through the roof may proceed unnoticed for long periods, hidden by suspended ceiling panels or in electrical or HVAC service areas above.
• Ruptures of water supply lines typically release clean (white) water.  Sewage backups or leaks in drain pipes release toxic (black) water that may be a biohazard and require evacuation of the premises.
• Flooding from external sources can result from heavy rains, storms such as hurricanes or local overflowing lakes or rivers.
• Moisture intrusion through the building envelope is typically more subtle. Humid outdoor air may be drawn in through structural cracks and gaps. Over a period, chronic dampness forms in spaces like wall voids, unventilated attics and service areas, spawning hidden mold growth that persists unseen.

At SERVPRO of West Volusia we are experts in commercial water damage mitigation and restoration. 

386-574-0864

Be Careful in the Kitchen

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of West Volusia we know how devastating a fire of any type can be. Kitchen fires, especially those from an oven or stove top mishap, tend to cause more damage than initially recognized. The proteins released from a grease and/or oil fire spread quickly and the residue adheres to most anything. 

There are a few things SERVPRO of West Volusia would like you to know in the event of this type of fire. 

*Do not use water to try and put it out. Call the Fire Department immediately and get outside.

*Once it's safe to return, do not try wiping the walls. You will only smear the residue making it more difficult to clean. 

*Call the professionals at SERVPRO of West Volusia. For 40 years we've been helping home and business owners recover from fires. 

At SERVPRO of West Volusia, we make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of West Voluisa

386-574-0864

Dealing with Contents

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

All water damages at commercial facilities are challenging. Whether there are multi-levels involved, numerous offices/cubicles or filled storage rooms, SERVPRO of West Volusia can help. 

Our IICRC trained and certified employees utilize state of the art equipment and software to insure your structure is properly dried out and you contents are dealt with. Our software programs track drying progress and can take a full inventory of any affected contents, salvageable and non-salvageable. 

Rest assured, our goal is to get you back in business as quickly as possible. To do so, we monitor our equipment and take material and atmospheric readings daily. Remember, when water damage impacts your facility go with the professionals at SERVPRO. "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of West Volusia

386-574-0864

Is Your Building Envelope Solid?

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Water has a way of finding entry into a commercial building during storms and floods. Old roofs, cracked windows and faulty siding are just some of the ways moisture can infiltrate a property and cause rain damage. Too much moisture or high humidity in a building can cause structural weakness over time and promote the growth of mold. The presence of mold affects indoor air quality and can cause unpleasant odors in a building. There are many ways to address this issue by scheduling preventative maintenance, conducting regular inspections of the roofing system and fixing any leaks. Making sure your commercial building is sealed against moisture is a great way to protect your investment and its contents. SERVPRO of West Volusia is here to help. 

The Damaging Effects of Water

Water is a corrosive element and can break down wood and fabrics and damage electronics. Its presence in the form of high humidity provides a fertile ground for black mold to proliferate. During a heavy downpour, it's important that your building has all of the elements in place to keep out moisture. A building envelope, which consists of your roofing system and grade wall systems, does the following:

• Protects against the intrusion of rain and hail.
• Funnels water away through the use of drains
• Provides weather protection and temperature control features

Rain damage poses a serious threat to the longevity of your building. In fact, floods are one of the most common disasters to impact a business. They can have devastating effects and can even cause a lengthy business disruption. Working with SERVPRO of West Volusia puts your company in a strong position to handle a disaster.
The best way to reduce rain damage to your building is to be prepared. Many buildings have cracks in the walls and other weaknesses that allow rain to get to areas where it doesn't belong. Shoring up these areas before a storm strikes is good business.

SERVPRO of West Volusia

386-574-0864

Storm Watch vs Storm Warning

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Population size can affect the severity of a storm by at least 2% in rainfall. This is due to a higher temperature in cities like Deland, Debary and Deltona, Florida. Fortunately, our phones have the convenient ability to alert us of an oncoming storm, whether the storm happens tonight, tomorrow, or within the next few days. However, these alerts come with two different descriptions of the storm, a storm watch or a storm warning. Without being informed on the difference between the two, how can we know how prepared we need to be for storms headed our way? Here’s the difference. A storm warning is a less severe storm message. 

A storm warning is for a storm that:

• will arrive soon 
• lasts between twenty minutes and an hour
• covers only portions of a county
• indicates we should take cover when the message is received

A storm watch is for a storm that:

• will arrive within a few hours
• lasts for several hours
• can cover across multiple states
• indicates we should have a plan prepared for when it arrives

With this information, we can better prepare ourselves for when that message shows up on phones. The next time a storm message arrives, whether a watch or a warning, save your stress about the possibility of damage until the following day. And before looking for how to handle storm damage from last night, consider hiring storm damage specialists like your local SERVPRO, who have the power of a commercial company with the speed and customer service of a local company. SERVPRO of West Volusia can take all the hassle out of the inevitable. While we cannot avoid the path of a storm, they can restore our homes as though storms never happen.

SERVPRO of West Volusia

386-574-0864

There Is A Leak Under My Kitchen Sink

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

5 Steps to Follow to Minimize the Need for Kitchen Repair

The kitchen may be the heart of your West Volusia home, but it's also a common site of household flooding. If you notice a leak beneath your sink, here are five steps to follow to minimize the need for kitchen repair.

1. If the water is erupting from your sink like a geyser, shut it off completely. Find the sink's individual water valve, and turn it clockwise to stop the flow of water. In the event that your kitchen sink doesn't have an individual cut-off valve, locate your home's main water supply valve and shut it off.

2. Remove any items stored beneath the sink. This will give you easy access to the pipes so you can better observe the source of the water in home, as well as allow you to begin drying off any wet items that you want to salvage.

3. Identify the source. There are a variety of reasons why your sink's drainpipe may have sprung a leak. One of the most common is a loose or worn compression nut. This makes for a loose connection that can allow water through. A clog, or even pipes that are the incorrect size, may also be to blame. If you can't figure out where the flooding originated, it's likely time to call your plumber for assistance.

4. Repair the leak. Once the source of the unwanted water has been found, it's time to fix it promptly. You may be able to perform simple repairs, such as tightening a loose compression nut, on your own if you wish. For more extensive repairs, however, seek the help of a professional plumber.

5. Clean up. The extent of the leak will determine the type of cleanup involved. If water damage is substantial, such as that which springs from a long-hidden leak, your best bet is usually to enlist the help SERVPRO of West Volusia.
Flooding in the kitchen is an all-too-common occurrence, but it doesn't have to be a catastrophe. Follow these five steps to restore your kitchen safely and quickly.

SERVPRO of West Volusia

386-574-0864

What's That Smell?

5/10/2020 (Permalink)

As we begin to go back to work many will be returning to buildings/facilities that have been closed for weeks or months. This creates the potential for unidentifiable odors from ambient humidity, lack of temperature control or undetected leaks. 

At SERVPRO of West Volusia we are experts in identifying and eliminating odor(s). However, eliminating the odor is only part of the solution. If the cause of the odor isn't identified and remedied, you are simply putting "a band-aid on a broken leg". 

Should you have an odor issue upon your return to work let SERVPRO of West Volusia investigate it for you. We will do so at no cost and provide you with a report of our findings and an estimate for remediating the source and eliminating the odor, if necessary. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia 

386-574-0864

"Here to Help"

Here To Serve

5/10/2020 (Permalink)

For 40 years, SERVPRO of West Volusia has taken pride in serving this community. We realize that when our clients call us they are typically in some phase of panic. Whether a water damage, fire or mold issue, their lives and/or business has been significantly interrupted. 

Every day, in our morning meeting, we discuss with our crews the opportunity that is ahead for them that day. It's an opportunity to positively impact someone's life; to help them realize we are going to make a bad situation better for them. It's what we train for and what we do. It's our culture; a culture of service. 

Thank you for allowing SERVPRO of West Volusia to serve you. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia

386-574-0864

"Here In Your Community: Here To Help"

Approaching Storm Season

5/9/2020 (Permalink)

Storm events are simply a part of our lives. Some are inconvenient; some are devastating. As a member of SERVPRO's Large Loss Team, SERVPRO of West Volusia is ready to respond. 

When a storm event is coming, SERVPRO's Large Loss Team(s) coordinate staging equipment and employees ahead of the actual event. Hurricane's; tornadoes; flooding; fires;,etc., are all events where West Volusia has responded to. Large or small, SERVPRO of West Volusia is experienced and ready to mitigate the damage and work closely with you in restoring your property. 

Residential or Commercial, we will be staffed and ready to respond. Call us today and let's discuss how we can work with you in being ready when disaster strikes. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia

386-574-0864

Hidden Moisture

5/9/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of West Volusia we pride ourselves on having trained, IICRC Certified employees and state of the art equipment. Our ability to take moisture readings and see what's happening "inside" your walls with our infrared camera(s), enable us to insure we will dry your property out properly. We take moisture readings daily, entering those readings into our drybook logs, giving us the information we need to do our job and giving you the peace of mind that you made the right decision in calling SERVPRO. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia is ready to respond to any size water damage, commercial or residential, 24/hours a day; 7/days a week. A live person always answers your call to assess your situation immediately and respond accordingly. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia

386-574-0864

Knowing Your Insurance Policy

5/9/2020 (Permalink)

Insurance is a subject that most find unimportant until they are in a situation when they need it. Our advice? DO NOT be like this.

As a business or homeowner, it is vital to know exactly what your policy covers! We cannot tell you how many times we find that a business or home is damaged and some (or none) of the repairs are covered. 

In Florida, more often than not the lack of coverage surrounds flood or mold damage. 

Make it a priority to call your agent sometime this week. Have a five to ten-minute "checkup" conversation just to make sure you are all on the same page with your policy and coverage! 

Put your mind at ease, and know that when the unexpected happens, SERVPRO of West Volusia will be here for you, and your insurance will pay for it! 

If you are in need of Cleaning & Restoration services, give us a call at (386) 574-0864. 

Wet Roads

5/9/2020 (Permalink)

In Florida, we so often find ourselves driving in rainy conditions. Here are a few tips to help you stay as safe on the roads as possible!

1.Slow down.  You should drop to at least 15 miles per hour below the speed limit when driving in the rain. If on the highway and drop to a lower speed, move to the right lanes for slower traffic.

2.Increase following distance. Leave plenty of distance between you and vehicle front of you. It may seem like everyone sees it as an opening to get ahead of you, do not panic, and stay a safe distance.

3.Turn on headlights in the rain. It is the law. Do not use your high beams, though. If your wipers are on, then so should your headlights.

4.Do NOT turn on your hazard lights. It is illegal. When a driver sees your emergency lights on, they think your vehicle is stopped and may take evasive action to avoid your car. Although you may be trying to prevent a crash, having your emergency lights on in the rain can cause a crash. Hazard lights are for parked cars only. This could cause confusion for officers to find an actual emergency. Flashing hazard lights can also trigger a seizure by the driver behind you, if that driver has epilepsy.

5.Check your tire tread. Grab a penny and insert it head first into your tire's tread groove. If you can see all of President Abraham Lincoln's head, it's time to replace your tires.

SERVPRO of West Volusia "Here To Help"

386-574-0864

COVID19

5/9/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of West Volusia, our team of professionals have been trained and experienced in dealing with biological contaminants. We are prepared to execute detailed cleaning and disinfection of your home or business to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The CDC has recommended the usage of labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogen claims, and we are strictly following all guidelines set by the CDC as well as local authorities. Here is a brief description of our COVID-19 cleanup processes dependent on the type of COVID-19 situation:

• Level 1- Sanitizing: Misting entire area with an antiviral.
• Level 2- High Touch Cleanup: Cleanup of high touch surfaces is required for a situation involving a person who is suspected to have COVID-19 or a Person Under Investigation; which is someone who is involved in a quarantine situation or has come in contact with someone testing positive. This includes cleaning and disinfecting of high touch nonporous surfaces and cleaning and sanitizing of high touch porous surfaces.
• Level 3- Enhanced Cleanup- Enhanced cleanup is required for an area in which a person who has been confirmed positive for COVID-19 has inhabited. This includes cleaning and disinfecting of all nonporous and porous surfaces. This enhanced cleaning includes up to 8 feet, but excludes ceilings.

In the event that your home or place of business is in need of COVID-19 prevention or cleanup and disinfection...SERVPRO of West Volusia is here for you. Give us a call at 386-574-0864

COVID19-Working Together

5/9/2020 (Permalink)

We here at SERVPRO of West Volusia understand what a critical time we are all in. That is why, in the midst of COVID-19, we will be offering discounted rates, free inspections, as well as no cost estimates. While adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards, our team of professionals offer cleaning as well as the removal of biohazard contaminants. At SERVPRO of West Volusia, our goal is to prevent or eliminate the virus' presence in your home or business, as well as bringing you peace of mind. Here are some preventative measures you can take to stop the spread of COVID-19:

• Wash your hands consistently throughout the day.
• Avoid touching your face as much as possible.
• Sanitize your home and workplace regularly.
• Avoid unnecessary social interactions and remain 6 feet apart from others.

In the event that your home or place of business is affected by COVID-19...SERVPRO of West Volusia is here for you. Give us a call at 386-574-0864

After a Fire

5/9/2020 (Permalink)

A destructive force like a fire can make it difficult to gauge what your first move should be. Here is a list of actions to take in the event that you are affected by a fire. 

•  Immediately contact the fire department and evacuate to a safe location
• Determine if anyone needs medical attention, and respond appropriately
• Find a safe place to stay if necessary, or if this proves to be difficult you may contact your local disaster relief agency, such as Salvation Army or American Red Cross which can help you find a temporary place to stay.
• Make sure doors and windows are secure, and secure any valuables as well. 
• Call SERVPRO of West Volusia to begin restoring your home or bussines.

SERPVPRO will clean any affected items you wish to restore. SERVPRO is also equipped to clean any of four different soot types, dry smoke, wet smoke, protein smoke, as well as fuel oil smoke residues. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia

386-574-0864

Insurance Policy - What You Should Know

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding your insurance policy makes it so much easier to know when you are covered.

Insurance is a subject that most find unimportant until they are in a situation when they need it. Our advice? DO NOT be like this.

As a business or homeowner, it is vital to know exactly what your policy covers! We cannot tell you how many times we find that a business or home is damaged and some (or none) of the repairs are covered. 

In Florida, more often than not the lack of coverage surrounds flood or mold damage. 

Make it a priority to call your agent sometime this week. Have a five to ten-minute "checkup" conversation just to make sure you are all on the same page with your policy and coverage! 

Put your mind at ease, and know that when the unexpected happens, SERVPRO of West Volusia will be here for you, and your insurance will pay for it! 

If you are in need of Cleaning & Restoration services, give us a call at (386) 574-0864.

Dealing With A Fire Aftermath

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

It's important to know what to do following a fire.

We are heading into a season of dryer air. 

Like a hurricane or any other natural disasters, wildfires bring up the urgency for people to understand what they are dealing with, should they ever be caught in that situation. One of the most important things to understand is wildfires can get out of control and the result can be disastrous.  

 If you find yourself as a victim of this event there are a few necessary measures to take immediately:

1. Ensure the health and safety of those involved. This is best achieved through emergency personnel. As soon as possible, make sure you seek help. 

2. When the situation is SAFE and CONTAINED, it is important to assess the damage to your home or place of business, in the case of a wildfire, this should involve both your insurance and local authorities. 

3. Restoration. SERVPRO understands what a devastating and trying time this is for you and your family. Know that we are here to make the restoration process as seamless and as comfortable for you as possible. We will walk with you through this process from beginning to end. 

A Few Smokey Facts

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

It is important to know the facts when dealing with smoke damage following a fire.

SERVPRO of West Volusia has been handling Fire Damaged homes and businesses for 35 years. Here are a few important things to know:

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of West Volusia will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore, smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today –386-574-0864

The Cleaning Tip That Could Save You Thousands

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning the gutters can save you money.

There are many ways in which water damage to your home is unavoidable. A storm blows through and causes damage, pipe bursts, etc. Those examples and more are out of your control. However, there is one cleaning job that if you do regularly, could assist in preventing water damage. 

Clean those gutters. 

We know, it's no one's favorite job. But even just cleaning those gutters at a minimum of once a year could help in preventing a build-up of leaves, sticks and other debris, this can cause clogs and result in water creeping under the roof and sometimes, into the foundation. 

Advice: Sorry Florida homeowners, but we advise that you should clean your gutters more often if you have overhanging trees and after a big storm.

Here's a little tip: Instead of using a store-bought scoop for the cleaning, use an old plastic kitchen spatula. It gets the job done just as well, and it won’t damage the gutters.

While it may not be the greatest chore - trust us, its more fun than water damage. 

If you have or suspect water damage to your home or business, give SERVPRO of West Volusia County a call at (386) 574-0864.

Our Ingredients - Safe For You And The Environment

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Environmentally friendly ingredients, cleaning smarter and better!

Did you know that SERVPRO of West Volusia uses cleaning products made with natural ingredients?

Benefect is an authentic botanical disinfectant that can be used for water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, and trauma scene clean up. It uses the essential oil of the thyme plant as the Active Ingredient, not a synthetic chemical substitute.

These cleaning products get the job done with no compromise in strength and without endangering your health or your environment.

SERVPRO of West Volusia is committed to using environmentally friendly products as much as possible. It is our goal to help keep our world and your family, chemical-free!

Just one more reason to give us a call for all of your Cleaning & Restoration needs!

Better for the environment, better for you!

Here for you - 24/7 - 7 days a week: (386) 574-0864

Call Your West Volusia Experts

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

What's that musty odor? Where did this spot on the ceiling come from? Has the corner of that wall always looked like that? 

If any of the above questions make you think about your home, it's time to give SERVPRO of West Volusia a call. 

The bad news: If you have ever asked or thought any of the above questions, you may be dealing with a mold issue in your home.

The good news: We are experts in mold remediation! Our crew would be happy to come out and inspect your home and the area of concern to see what you may be dealing with - at no cost to you, of course. 

Mold in your home can be scary...In some cases, it may even mean health concerns for your family. But don't worry, SERVPRO of West Volusia is here to serve you and help get your life back to normal and your home mold-free! 

Give us a call today: (386) 574-0864

FIre Safety Plan

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Having a fire safety plan for your family is so important. In the event of a fire, every family member knowing exactly what to do could truly be life-saving. That's why here at SERVPRO of West Volusia County we strongly support the creation of home fire escape plans in every household.

If you do not already have a plan in place for your home, here are a few tips for creating one! 

1. Family members should know two ways to get out of every room in the home. 
2. Make specific escape routes and plans for homes with two stories or more.
3. Pick a meeting place outside of the home where your family will go in the event of a fire. 
4. Home fire drills should be performed to make sure that the plan in place works well. 
5. Make sure every member of the family knows how to call 9-1-1. 

For all of your fire restoration needs, give us a call at (386) 574-0864.

Always Ready!

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

For Immediate Service call SERVPRO of West Volusia - 

Our franchise provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. For 35 years we have been responding immediately to any emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7: (386) 574-0864

Residential Services

Whether your Volusia County home needs emergency flood damage or your carpets cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for Fire/Water/Mold damage to strike your Volusia County commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. 

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation/Restoration

Hurricane Season...It's Time to Start Preparing

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Preparedness Week (May 5-11, 2019)

There are so many essential tools and preparedness tips to get your family ready for hurricane season. Here in Central Florida, we know how important it is to make sure your family has a solid plan in place to stay as safe and secure as possible when facing a big storm. Here are a few guidelines we find most effective:

1. Stay tuned to your local weather channels. Be in the know! It allows you the most time to prepare if a storm arises. It also allows for the most accurate local threats you may face during and after severe weather.
2. Have an evacuation plan in place. Know where you would go, transportation avenues, and a timeline for travel.
3. Finally, finalize an insurance plan that has the coverage you need to protect against severe weather damage. The majority of homeowners do not know the complete extent of what their insurance plan does or does not cover.

We hope these reminders assist you in planning for this upcoming hurricane season. Know that SERVPRO of West Volusia is always here for your storm restoration needs! (386) 574-0864. 

Be Ready For Anything

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Ready App

Did you know SERVPRO offers an app so that you can be ready for anything? It can be downloaded from the App Store and the Android Market. You do not even need to be a current customer of SERVPRO to download!

Download is fast and simple. Search SERVPRO in the App Store or Android Market. You will see a green and orange SERVPRO logo and the app is labeled Ready Plan. Once in you can register to create your user ID and password.

You can then explore the app for tips and more information on SERVPRO. The app is self-explanatory and easy to use. You can add the property or properties that you manage, along with important contact information, property or building information, emergency contacts and insurance information.

You can even file a claim right from the app, no need to search for a SERVPRO closest to you! Whether you are a home owner, commercial property owner or property manager, this app is handy for anyone.

For more information, including a short video about its uses, please click the link below.

https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp

Continued Growth

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of West Volusia, we are continuing to grow. We now have 3 large warehouses with office space in Sanford. Along with the additional space for equipment storage, etc., it will enable us to handle 99% of customer content storage and cleaning at our facility eliminating the need for pods and other storage units. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia continues to provide immediate, excellent service and no job is too small or too big for us. Our trained, certified employees stand ready with state of the art equipment, tools and vehicles to respond to any and all residential/commercial jobs. 

As an IICRC certified firm you are assured of the following:

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

The Difference You Didn't Expect

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

"Any restoration company can make the damage disappear, but we will fix it." - Joe Dalton (General Manager)

Last month, our owners sat down with a local magazine to talk about the restoration industry. After rolling through the interview touch points, including industry expert questions and more specific business information. The journalist asked if someone could sum up what makes SERVPRO of West Volusia, unique in the restoration business. 

The answer is the difference you didn't expect.

It's going to seem strange - When you look down at your phone to see our Operations Manager calling you when we had finished our job days or even a week earlier. You may even chuckle a little as we ask if everything is still working and satisfactorily back to normal. After all, we will have already done a final walk through and asked those same exact questions. 

This is what makes us unique. The one extra call. The one extra step. The one extra moment to ensure that your home or business is left as good, if not better than before the damage occurred.

"Like it never even happened." isn't just a slogan, it's how we conduct business every single day. 

When You Aren't Ready

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

"You don't think about what you will do if your place of business is covered in water. So thankful SERVPRO of West Volusia came to the rescue!" - Amy 

You don't think about it. A fire, a water damage, hurricane loss, mold growth - we could go on and on. As tragic and worrisome as these events can be, its fairly rare that we find a commercial property owner who is prepared to open the flood gates that was a front door and find a water damage. 

That's where we come in.

We can handle any sort of damage, big or small! We are talking skyscraper status, to small business warehouse offices. We are here for you. So don't let the panic sink in...Grab your phone, dial our number, and we'll take it from there.

24/7 - 7 days a week: (386) 574-0864

Three Reasons To Call

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Volusia is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help: (386) 574-0864

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of West Volusia has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of West Volusia

SERVPRO of West Volusia specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

Severe Weather Awareness Week - Florida

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week is full of essential information and tips to help you be prepared in various severe weather events. 

The awareness platform details ways to stay safe in the event of a lightning storm. (VITAL information for Floridians to pay attention to.)

It also talks about hurricanes and flooding. What you can do to prepare your family, home, and business for these events should they occur. 

Earlier this week, a statewide tornado drill was held in order for proactive participants to take part in tornado safety exercises. (FYI, if you do not do this, you should.) 

Marine hazards and rip currents are also a topic of concern especially in Florida. If you are EVER beach-goers, you and your family should be up to date on these dangers and safety precautions. 

Finally, fires and extreme temperatures are important awareness topics. Florida's dry season is going on right now. Which means we are at a higher risk for wildfires. 

You may think you know the proper safety tips and procedures in each of these topics, but it never hurts to reaffirm that information and keep it fresh in your mind. Check out floridadisasters.org for more information. Stay safe Florida!

Anytime - Anywhere

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Volusia specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Having served Central Florida for 35 years we have the experience, equipment and employees for any situation.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Volusia County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 386-574-0864

Preparing For A Major Storm

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Living in Florida, we are no strangers to major storms and hurricanes. Even so, it never hurts to be as prepared as possible when we find ourselves in the path of one. Here are a few guidelines we think everyone should go by in the event of a major storm. 

1. Create a three-day (at minimum) supply kit. Make sure it contains enough water, food, medication and any other items needed to last you and your family at least three days. 
2. Put away important paperwork and special belongings in water proof storage. Zip-locked bags or water proof boxes are great for this!
3. Create a home emergency plan. This would be important to have in place if your home is at risk of flooding during the storm.
4. It never hurts to board up windows and purchase sandbags to help protect the exterior of your home from heavy winds and rain.
5. Make sure you stay tuned into weather stations for any important warnings that may be issued for your area.

If a water damage were to occur due to a major storm, SERVPRO of West Volusia County is here for you! Give us a call at (386) 574-0864.

Dealing With A Water Damage

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Volusia is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today - 386-574-0864

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of West Volusia has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Safety Tips for Your Business

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Helping to protect your business is easy when you follow a few simple measures. Here are a few of our favorite safety tips so that you can be better prepared if disaster strikes.

1. Advance preparation is so important. Make sure that key employees understand the business insurance plan in DETAIL. This makes it so much easier when you need to make a claim. 
2. Make sure your smoke alarms work properly! It is such a small thing but this safety measure is constantly neglected. 
3. Make sure safety rules and plans are accessible to all employees. This can be achieved by having the safety instructions posted in all areas of the office space. 

Even just by implementing these quick and easy steps, your helping to make your business environment safer and better prepared! 

SERVPRO of West Volusia County: (386) 574-0864

Why Your Business Needs An ERP

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

When you have a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) in place for your business, you are ready for whatever happens! 

SERVPRO of West Volusia County can provide your company with an ERP individually tailored to your needs. Here's what it does: 

• Identifies a point of contact able to authorize work orders. This allows us to be able to quickly get to work repairing any damage in the event of a water or fire damage.
• Provides significant details on valve shut off locations, identifies areas with important safety equipment and presents emergency contact information and notes. This allows any employee you wish to have easy access to vital emergency information in the event that damage occurs. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia County is here to help protect your business by helping you get prepared! Give us a call today: (386)574-0864

The Lingering Effect

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Mold. It is usually never foreseeable and never found until one day you open up that back storage closet that you NEVER go in and it smells a little strange. Moving things around you find it, and then you call us. 

However, there are cases when a mold problem should be foreseeable and can hopefully be taken care of before it is even a problem. When does this occur?

During floods or water damages. 

You should always be aware that anytime you have had flood damage to your home or place of business it is likely for mold growth to occur in that area. In fact, it's more than likely. That is why you always hire a water damage restoration specialist (we know a good one) to deal with flood or water damage. SERVPRO will make sure that you are at the least possible risk for any lingering mold growth. 

Give us a call for a FREE mold inspection: (386) 574-0864.

Preventative Measures Against Mold Growth In Your Home

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

1. Avoid long-term leaks: this one may seem obvious, but so many times we can make a temporary "quick fix" to a problem that isn't going away. Leaks are the leading cause for mold in a home so always make sure when you discover a leak that you get it taken care of right away. 
2. Mold loves wood: that's right, wood becomes an easy target for mold growth in the right moisture setting. That's why it is always good to use plastic or metal containers or shelving in places where high moisture levels can occur, such as a garage or a basement. 
3. Limit moisture in kitchens and bathrooms: Always try to make sure and vent an area that contains moisture. After you shower, turn on the vent in the bathroom for at least 20 minutes. Also, you can turn on the vents when cooking on a stove as well. 
4. Inspect your air conditioning unit: Finally, make sure to complete a yearly inspection of your air conditioning unit. Mold spores can get trapped and build up in certain areas causing it to expand. 

Remembering these tips will not guarantee that you will never have a mold problem occur. However, it will help reduce the risk! 

What You Can Do After A Water Damage

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Water in unwanted places can cause a lot of damage. While we never suggest cleaning up a water damage yourself, there are a few things you can do before the professionals get there in order to help preserve your belongings!

• Remove electronics that may be in the path of the water. The faster you do this, the less damage you will have occur to these items.  
• Anything you are able to get up on blocks and away from the water really helps the chances of salvaging items in a water damage.
• Towels, buckets, mops and anything else that can soak up as much water as possible is always a plus and can help to prevent significant damage to flooring. 

After these steps, leave the rest to us! SERVPRO of West Volusia County specializes in water damage restoration and can get your home back to normal in no time! 

If you have suffered a water damage, give us a call at (386) 574-0864.

Christmas Home Hazards

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

It's the most wonderful time of the year! With Christmas only a couple of weeks away, trees are up and decorated, Christmas candles are filling the house with smells of sugar cookies or cinnamon, and lights are up outside to add that extra sparkle after dark. 

While all of these are beautiful ways to delight in the spirit of the season, we want to ensure that you take the proper safety precautions to keep your family and home safe. 

Did you know that December being the peak period for home fires started by candles or misuse of lights? 

Here are a few tips that may help prevent a fire hazard in your home: 

1. Keep those Christmas tress watered! Make sure that you check the water level each day, to help avoid the tree drying out and becoming a fire hazard. 
2. Do not leave outside Christmas lights on while you sleep. Turn them on for a few hours a night, and then turn them off. (This saves electricity too!) 
3. 40% of home decoration fires are started by candles. Make sure you place candles in a safe location when burning and do not leave unattended. 

We encourage you to always be mindful of potential fire dangers and remain cautious no matter what time of year. However, we ask that you be EXTRA careful during this season. 

However, if you were to find yourself the victim of a home fire - you can trust SERVPRO of West Volusia to have you back to normal in no time!

Hidden Mold - Inspection Process

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Hidden mold in a home

Do you have an odor you can't identify? Do you see dark staining or visible mold? If so, let us come out and determine if you have a mold problem that needs to be addressed.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

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

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 386-574-0864

Happy Halloween from your friends at SERVPRO!

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Happy Halloween!

Can you believe the end of October is already here? Today, the holiday season kicks off with candy and costumes...In our office, Halloween also means our Annual pumpkin painting/carving contest! 

Traditions are such a big part of our workplace and this one is so much fun! Everyone seems to get more creative with their pumpkins every year (making the contest harder to judge every time!) Who knew painting tiny pumpkins could get so competitive? 

So whether it is with family, friends, or place of business, we encourage you to have some fun this holiday season. Make up a game or get crafty! If you don't know where to start, websites like Pinterest or Facebook have some awesome ideas that can help get you started. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia County wishes everyone a safe and happy Halloween! If you are trick or treating tonight, make sure and grab us some extra candy. 

Testing For Mold In Your Central Florida Home?

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is hard to handle on your own. Let the professionals at SERVPRO combat the task.

When you should test for mold:

• Following flood damage
• Once a leak is found
• When you notice stains that you cannot explain
• When you smell mold, but cannot see it
• If someone in your home develops a medical condition that cannot be explained

The Process:

• Call for a mold inspection if you see or smell mold, or if you are experiencing health problems, most notably, difficulty breathing.
• A visual assessment can help determine where mold is located. Air samples will be taken and tested for mold spores. Once testing is complete, a report will be issued with the findings.
• If test result prove that there is in fact mold present it is important to call a mold remediation specialist, such as SERVPRO, to take care of the job. During mold remediation, professionals will use protective clothing (including masks and gloves) and the proper equipment to ensure the mold does not spread.
• Finally, air samples will be taken again once mold has been removed. A new report will be issued.

Fire Prevention Week - What You Should Know

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

House fires can cause a lot of damage very quickly.

Did you know that National Fire Prevention Week 2017 is October 8-14? It is a necessity for your family to stay up to date on fire safety because it truly saves lives.  

That’s why this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” is so important. It reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan.

This is important not only for your home but for your place of business as well. If there is a fire one day while you are in the office, have you thought about your escape plan? Does your company have one in place? 

These are all vital questions to ask and the essential reason that Fire Prevention Week exists. 

Bringing awareness to fire safety and its importance.

That is what this is all about! So sit down with your family and come up with an escape plan in case of a fire. Make sure you as well as your co-workers are up to date with the escape plan at your job too! 

You can also to follow SERVPRO of West Volusia county on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! We will be bringing you fire safety tips and trades throughout Fire Prevention Week! You can also find a bunch of resources on fire safety by visiting the American Red Cross website, as well as NFPA.org. 

Remember, fire restoration is one of our specialties here at SERVPRO of West Volusia county.

If you are ever in need of our services, give us a call at (386) 574-0864.

Protecting Your Central Florida Business From Hurricane Damage

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Structure effected by water damage due to a recent storm.

Just like you would your home, it is so important to protect your business structure from powerful storms. 

That's why we thought we would share a few tips to help you prepare.

1. Trim trees or other plants 

At your home, you are going to make sure your trees and bushes are trimmed to help ensure that nothing comes flying through your windows during high winds. It's important to take this same measure at the office. 

2. Storm shutters

If you live somewhere prone to hurricanes and powerful storms like we do here in Central Florida, it's always a good idea to install storm shutters on your windows at the office just like you would at home. 

3. Storage space

If you are a company that deals with equipment (like we do) it's important to have a space inside your office that you would be able to store everything if need be. This helps to prevent any equipment from getting wet and possibly ruined. 

So that's it. All it takes is a few extra measures to make sure your business is as safe and secure during a storm as your home! 

If you ever do end up with a water damage in your home or place of business, don't worry...We're here for you. 

Give us a call at (386) 574-0864.

Got Mold?

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

Mold was found down near the baseboards in this home.

What's that musty odor? Where did this spot on the ceiling come from? Has the corner of that wall always looked like that? 

If any of the above questions make you think about your home, it's time to give SERVPRO of West Volusia County a call. 

The bad news: If you have ever asked or thought any of the above questions, you may be dealing with a mold issue in your home.

The good news: We are experts in mold remediation! Our crew would be happy to come out and inspect your home and the area of concern to see what you may be dealing with - at no cost to you, of course. 

Mold in your home can be scary...In some cases it may even mean health concerns for your family. But don't worry, SERVPRO of West Volusia County is here to serve you and help get your life back to normal and your home mold free! 

Give us a call today: 386-574-0864

Post Hurricane Tips

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Lane is currently causing major flooding issues as it continues to bare down on the Hawaiian islands. So often we post about hurricane preparation tips and what you can do to be ready for a big storm. While that is important to know, it is also vital to understand steps that should be taken after a hurricane has passed through your area. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia is a proud supporter and partner of The American Red Cross, and hope that these few tips assist your family in the aftermath of a hurricane. 

1. If the power is out after a storm and you have a generator, PLEASE make sure you know how to properly use and store one BEFORE you ever utilize it. 
2. Try to assess the damage to your home or building. If you hear strange noises or shifting, leave the structure immediately. 
3. Pay close attention to flood warnings and other safety messages post hurricane. Just because the storm has passed, does not mean you should stop tuning into your emergency radio. 
4. If you have to venture outside before safety measures have been put in place. REMEMBER that fallen power lines can be covered by debris from the storm. Proceed with extreme caution. 
5. Follow your local hurricane disaster guidelines. They are put in place to help ensure you and your family's safety. 

There are plenty of more tips on how to deal with the aftermath of a hurricane. Please visit The American Red Cross website for more details.

For storm damage restoration needs, we are here to help. Give us a call at (386) 574-0864. 

Fireworks and Fire Safety

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

The 4th of July is just days away!

SERVPRO of West Volusia County wants to help you celebrate safely with your family, so here are a few firework safety tips we think you should be aware of:

1. It is important that you know about and abide by the local firework laws set in your area. (This can help avoid putting a damper on your holiday with a ticket or violation fee.)
2. Have an adult read the instructions on the fireworks before lighting. (This can help to prevent a small mistake, with a potential big consequence.) 
3. Adults should ALWAYS assist their kids when setting off fireworks. (This will help keep the process safer.)
4. Set off your fireworks in a clear area. (Keep away from trees, homes, people, buildings, etc.)
5. Finally, clean up when your done! (Please don't litter.)

These simple tips can go a long way in helping prevent you from getting hurt or accidentally starting a fire when operating fireworks.

Happy 4th of July from all of us at SERVPRO of West Volusia County!

Remember, if you experience a holiday mishap, SERVPRO is always Here To Help! Click here to learn more about Fire Damage Restoration.

SERVPRO of West Volusia County: 386-574-0864 

Water Safety Tips (Summer is almost here!)

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is just around the corner and in Central Florida that means a lot of us are all gearing up to take part in water activities and swimming! 

SERVPRO of West Volusia County wants to help you have a fun, safe summer. So we thought we would share some top water safety tips for you to remember before you jump in!

1. Swim with a buddy. (If possible, this is always the safest route no matter where you might be swimming.)
2. Parents, always watch your kids while they are in the pool. (Disasters can happen so fast.)
3. Have a life jacket and first aid kit on hand. (Getting in the habit of taking these things with you to swimming activities can be helpful.)

For more great water safety tips, visit the American Red Cross website. 

Do I Have A Mold Issue?

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

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

If you think your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your issue.

If you see signs of mold, have a musty odor or just want some peace of mind, call us today at (386) 574-0864.