3 Types of Damage that Occur During a Fire

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

A fire in your home can be devastating.

Elements That May Affect Your Home

A fire in your West Boca Raton, FL, home can be devastating. Fire damage can affect your belongings as well as the structure of the building. On top of this, you may be dealing with secondary forms of damage as well. The following are some ways that various elements may affect your home and how you can address it.

1. Fire

The damage caused by flames is likely the first to cross your mind when you think of a fire in your home. Fire damage can be incredibly destructive, leading to missing sections of the building and ruined property. Luckily, a cleanup and restoration company can make repairs and rebuild your home. They can also salvage many damaged items.

2. Water

You may not usually consider water damage as a consequence of a fire, but depending on the size and severity of the blaze, firefighters will need to use a fire hose to put out the flames. This can result in flooding inside the building. It is important to have this water removed as soon as possible to prevent additional problems such as mold. A dehumidifier and open windows can help the building dry more quickly.

3. Smoke

Smoke travels further than flames, so it often affects a larger area of your house and can leave a film of soot on walls, floors and objects. This can be corrosive to certain materials and should be removed right away. For hard surfaces, soap and water are usually enough but fabrics may need to be dry cleaned or put in the wash. Using an air purifier can help remove smoke odors from the environment.

If you have experienced a fire in your home, it’s important to begin work on fire damage and any other issues as soon as possible. This will prevent the damage from worsening and will allow you to have your home back to normal more quickly. Any needed cleanup and repairs can be done by a professional service to ensure the building is safe.

How To Choose a Good Fire Restoration Company

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a good fire restoration company

How To Choose a Good Fire Restoration Company

After a commercial fire, you should contact fire damage restoration professionals to assess and repair your property. There are many remediation companies providing services in Boca Raton, FL so it can be hard to tell which ones to trust.
Ideally, you should look for trained and experienced remediation professionals. They should perform water and smoke cleanup rather than just addressing the charred portions of your property. They should additionally follow the below steps during a typical restoration.

1. Immediate Response
Look for a remediation company that can come to your premises as soon as it is safe to do so. Even a slight delay can cause additional harm to the property. This is particularly true if the fire damaged the roof, windows or doors. Water from a sudden rainstorm can then enter the property and create even more destruction. You should thus hire fire damage restoration experts who will immediately cover up any holes in the structure following the blaze.

2. Assessment
The remediation company should also provide a fair and accurate estimate of the repair cost. This typically follows an inspection and assessment of the damage.

3. Cleaning
The experts can then start cleaning your property. This should include eliminating any lingering odors caused by smoke. The pros should also utilize submersible pumps to drain standing water left behind by firefighter hoses. Items that are badly charred or contaminated may have to be completely discarded.

4. Restoration
The remediation professionals should then restore everything that was damaged. This could include installing new carpets, replacing the cabinets, or repainting the walls.

A good fire damage restoration company responds to the premises immediately and surveys the extent of the harm. The experts should also provide board-up and tarp-over services before cleaning and repairing the building and its contents. If you pick a remediation business that follows these steps, your property should be back to normal quickly.

3 Times Homeowner’s Insurance Doesn’t Cover a Flooded Basement

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

A basement flood from a natural disaster is generally not covered by your insurance.

A Flooded Basement Isn't Always Covered By Homeowner's Insurance.

Unfortunately, there are plenty of sources for a basement flood in your home in Boca, FL, that your homeowner's insurance will not cover. The following sources are common examples of when the flood is not covered.

1. Storms

A basement flood from a natural disaster is generally not covered by your insurance. This means you should have a sump pump in your unfinished basement. If you have a finished basement, you should take other measures to keep water out. For all situations with rising water levels, flood insurance is your best bet. This type of policy offers insurance coverage for your personal belongings. In other words, they will pay to replace your items or have them dried by a water restoration company that offers content cleaning.

2. Sewage Backups

If sewage backs up and floods your basement, it will probably not be covered under a standard policy. This type of disaster is the most expensive and can cause a lot of damage. Fortunately, you can combat it by purchasing an additional clause on your insurance policy. Just make sure that you get at least $10,000 of coverage. Otherwise, they could leave you footing a lot of the bill for the restoration work.

3. Groundwater Seepage

A basement flood caused by groundwater seepage is generally not covered. You may notice these after heavy rain strikes as water seeps through the cracks in your foundation. Your insurance company considers this a non-coverable calamity. This is also typically not covered by flood insurance. The best way to prevent this type of disaster is to ensure that your foundation is solid. Also, reseal your basement walls periodically. This will prevent any water from entering, so you don't have to worry about paying for the damage.

Your homeowner's insurance doesn't cover every type of water damage. These are just some of the sources of a flooded basement that your insurance company will likely exclude from your policy.

3 Ways To Prevent Water Damage During Construction

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

If you are establishing a new business or expanding an existing one, you want to make sure the construction of your new Boca Del Mar, FL, commercial.

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage During Construction

Whether you're starting a new business or expanding an existing one, you want to ensure that the construction of your new Boca Del Mar, FL, commercial building goes smoothly without any setbacks. Flooding is a common problem on many construction sites, whether from water pipe repair issues or heavy rainfall, so taking steps to avoid it is crucial to the success of your build. Here are three ways you can prevent water damage during construction.

1. Look for Areas that Could Become Flooded

Before construction begins, put together a Quality Control and Assurance team. Task the team with evaluating the construction plans and specifications to ensure that no problem areas have been overlooked. Have the team look for potential areas that could flood, whether from a broken pipe in the building or rainfall. It's also helpful to evaluate the property's drainage and ensure that the ground's slope will direct outside water away from the building.

2. Continually Inspect New Construction

Weekly inspections are vital to ensure that your construction doesn't face unnecessary setbacks from something avoidable, such as a water pipe repair or leaking foundation. Even a tiny leak in the foundation could cause a tremendous amount of damage, and you would need to call in a water damage specialist to help mitigate the problem, so it's essential to inspect it for problems. When the plumbing begins to go in, examine every connection and pipe to identify issues early.

3. Thoroughly Test Everything

The only way to know that your systems are watertight is to test them. Have a professional test your roofing system to look for leaks or potential problems. Also, allow water to run through your plumbing systems for a minimum of 15 minutes to ensure there are no leaks. A water pipe repair is much easier to do before the walls go up. Remember that testing will save you a lot of time and hassle in the long run.

Water damage can be costly and time-consuming to handle when building a new commercial space. However, when you take the time to inspect and test everything, you will be better prepared against unforeseen damage.

5 Steps of Flood Cleanup

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

When your home in West Boca Raton, FL, gets flooded, it easily creates a stressful situation but one that needs immediate attention

Flood Cleanup in 5 Easy Steps

When your home in West Boca Raton, FL, gets flooded, it easily creates a stressful situation but one that needs immediate attention. As you start dealing with the mess, it’s important to follow the cleaning requirements below.

1. Wear PPE

While a simple sink overflow may not require anything more than a towel and bucket, any water issues that come from natural flooding or sewage issues require wearing safety gear. These types of water sources mean the water has potential contaminants. It is recommended to wear safety goggles, a face mask, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants.

2. Remove Water-logged Items

Once your insurance provider gives the go-ahead, remove any items that are water-logged. From clothes to mattresses and papers, the longer they sit in the home, the more chances that mold will start to grow.

3. Extract Water

Extracting the water is essential for proper cleanup. While a wet/dry vacuum is better than a mop and bucket, it may take a while. If possible, rent an industrial-grade pump to get the water out as fast as possible.

4. Dry Out Affected Areas

Once the water is gone, it is important to dry out anything that water has touched. Use fans to help circulate the air, as well as open windows if the humidity levels outdoors aren’t too high. It is also a good idea to run a dehumidifier to help remove moisture from the air.

5. Use Approved Flood Disinfectant

After everything is dry, the real cleaning process starts. Cleaning requirements include sanitizing and deodorizing anything that has come in contact with water. It is vital to use cleaners that can eradicate biological and other contaminants. Be sure to clean all hard surfaces, walls, ceilings, flooring, and furniture. If the floodwater level was relatively high, it may be best to call in a flood clean and restoration company. In many cases, cleaning alone won’t do the trick. Drywall, carpeting, and other porous materials in the home may need to be removed and replaced.

While you may want to get your home back to normal after a flood, be sure to follow cleaning requirements to avoid lingering issues.

What To Do If You Smell Natural Gas In Your Home

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Ventilating your home may help release some of the gas buildup that could lead to a gas fire.

If You Smell Natural Gas in Your House, What Should You Do?

Have you ever smelled natural gas? That’s a bit of a trick question. In its raw state, natural gas is odorless, colorless, and nearly impossible to detect. It’s also highly flammable — a dangerous combination. To reduce this danger, gas companies add a non-toxic chemical called mercaptan into the gas before distribution. Mercaptan is the source of that distinctive, “rotten egg” smell that most people associate with gas. The scent is unpleasant, but it makes a gas leak much easier to detect. If you ever smell mercaptan in your home, follow these precautions to prevent a gas fire from breaking out.

1. Keep the House Dark

Depending on the severity of the leak, any electrical current could spark a gas explosion. Don’t turn on any lights or other electrical devices. This includes battery-operated devices such as cell phones and flashlights. Never ignite a lighter or match.

2. Check Your Stove Knobs

A gas stove is one of the most common culprits of a gas leak, since bumping a knob can accidentally turn on the gas. Check the knobs on your stove to ensure that they are all in the “off” position.

3. Open Windows and Doors

Ventilating your home may help release some of the gas buildup that could lead to a gas fire. Open doors and windows, but only if you can do so quickly.

4. Get Out of the House

Evacuate the house, including pets. Do not start your car, especially if the car is in an attached garage. Don’t turn on your phone until you are a safe distance from the house.

5. Contact Authorities

When you are your family are safely across the street or down the block, call 911 or other emergency response service for Highland Beach, FL, then call your gas company. Stay nearby and wait for help to arrive.

A home fire can be devastating, and fire damage cleanup is often long and arduous. Sticking to these tips will help minimize your risk of a gas fire.

5 Things You Should Do If There Is Water in Your Light Fixtures

5/21/2022 (Permalink)

If you have water in light fixtures inside your home, it is important that you handle the situation with care.

Water In Light Fixtures

Water damage can affect any part of your Whisper Walk, FL, home. If there is water leaking through your ceiling, it can create extra trouble. Water in light fixtures can easily lead to dangerous situations, but the following steps can help you get through it more safely.

1. Turn Off the Electricity
Electricity and water are a bad combination. Before you do anything else, turn off the electricity to the house. Do not attempt to turn the light off with the switch and instead use the breaker to shut off everything.

2. Turn Off the Water
If the water is coming from a leak inside your house, turn off the water. This will help minimize the amount of damage done to the building.

3. Start an Insurance Claim
Call your insurance agent as soon as you can safely do so. Depending on the cause of the water damage, the cost of repairs may be covered. Take pictures of the damage and make a list of affected items to prepare for the insurance adjuster’s visit.

4. Repair the Ceiling Damage
A professional water damage remediation company can remove the excess water from your home. They will do mitigation to keep the damage from spreading and then begin any necessary repair work.

5. Replace the Light Fixture
You should not turn your electricity back on until you have an inspection from an electrician. Water in light fixtures can cause rust and other problems, so the affected light may need to be replaced. You should have this done by a professional and avoid trying to do this on your own.
If you have water in light fixtures inside your home, it is important that you handle the situation with care. Do what you can to stay safe, and allow professionals to do any work that you are not qualified for.

3 Unique Features of a Partial Loss Fire

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial fires happen every day.

Three Characteristics of a Partial Loss Fire

Commercial fires happen every day in the U.S. These events are always traumatic for business owners and managers and indeed anyone associated with the company. This is even true if no injuries or fatalities occur. In a total loss fire, the emphasis is on a rebuild of the property in Mission Bay, FL, but in a fire loss that results in only partial damage, the focus takes on a different look in certain regards.

1. Dealing With Smoke Damage
Smoke from a business fire can permeate the walls, ceilings, furniture, electrical systems and flooring of a building. Porous surfaces absorb smoke, making them difficult to completely clean, thereby requiring special cleaning methods. Some of the fire loss damage is visible, while other impacts reside in the lingering smells. The services of a trained and certified fire mitigation team are often necessary to treat damage from smoke.

2. Concentrating on Fire Restoration
Every fire is unique, but flames tend to damage the structures of a building to some extent. This calls for the rebuild of walls, ceilings, roofs and other building components. It could even require the restoration of electrical systems. The contractor performing the work should restore the building to a uniform and consistent look that is in harmony with the rest of the building.

3. Working With Insurance
A partial loss fire often calls for more contact with the insurance company. The adjuster might be involved in decisions on what items are salvageable and which ones need to be replaced. While it tends to be less expensive to clean and save items, that is not always the case. It is also important in the cleanup stage that all hidden damage from the fire is addressed.
A partial fire loss from a commercial fire has many complex moving parts. Professional restoration is best undertaken by a reputable mitigation company.

3 Reasons To Perform Restoration Pretesting

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

Experienced restoration professionals usually recommend pretesting damaged residences or commercial buildings in Boca, FL.

Restoration Pretesting Is Important For Three Reasons

Experienced restoration professionals usually recommend pretesting damaged residences or commercial buildings in Boca, FL. This method is useful for calculating overall cleanup costs, identifying the most urgent mitigation measures and arriving at a more accurate estimate of the total cost of restoration. Find out more about these three reasons to pretest any type of property damage.

1. Determining What Can Be Restored

One of the main advantages of pretesting is that this measure gives a clearer sense of which building materials and contents may be restored and which items require replacement. This information is useful for calculating more accurate estimates that account for content cleaning and rebuilding prior to making an insurance claim. Furthermore, a complete early assessment can reduce costs over the entire restoration process.

2. Identifying Mitigation Priorities

The comprehensive assessment of the condition of building materials and contents that takes place early on directly informs mitigation measures. Trained professionals can identify specific steps that should be taken to limit the degree of primary damage which may also keep preventable secondary damage from taking place.

3. Estimating Total Restoration Costs

Getting a clear sense of which items are most likely to be good candidates for cleaning and factoring the expenses associated with these methods along with the cost to replace losses allows for a more accurate estimate. Using one restoration company from start to finish can also keep costs as low as possible and inform a single estimate that is easier for an insurance agent to work with than calculations done by multiple service providers.

Pretesting does not prolong the initial period of damage assessment and can save a significant amount of time and money during restoration. A property owner may want to inquire whether cleanup professionals can pretest when they arrive onsite to inspect and document damage at a residential or commercial property located in Boca, FL.

Important Facts To Know About Thunderstorms and Company Safety

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

You should contact a storm mitigation company in your Boca Del Mar, FL area when you have a storm damage event.

Thunderstorms and Workplace Safety: What You Need to Know

A rainstorm unleashes powerful energy into the environment. Not only does it have the potential to bring down torrents of rain and cause flooding, but it also is frequently accompanied by strong winds, thunder, and lightning. If you are not prepared, this can be bad news for your company in Boca Del Mar, FL.

When compared with hurricanes and tornadoes, a thunderstorm usually impacts a much smaller area; however, these storms still pack a wallop and should never be underestimated. One particular storm in Texas in 1995 caused over $2 billion in damages, mostly as the result of hail.

The Role of Lightning in a Rain Storm
Nearly every powerful storm has its share of lightning. These bolts of superheated air can damage property as well as pose a risk to people and animals. A few interesting facts about lightning show its awesome power:

• It can be four times as hot as the sun's surface
• It comes in colors purple, blue, yellow, and white
• It strikes the Earth about 8 million times a day
• It can be up to 90 miles long
  

Along with high winds and hail, lightning is one of the most destructive forces during a storm. It can even cause structures to ignite.

The Role of Storm Preparation
Your company can limit your exposure to damage by following a few basic guidelines. First, you should always make sure you hold adequate storm insurance for your buildings and other assets. Second, you should develop a plan to prepare for and minimize the impact of storms. This could include such things as strengthening your roof or landscaping your property to divert high waters.

Third, you should contact a storm mitigation company in the event of storm damage. Highly-trained professionals will work to restore your company and reduce costs. A rainstorm has the potential to create significant damage to your company if not taken seriously.

Perfecting Your Home Fire Escape Plan

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

You don't want to be caught off guard if a fire breaks out in your West Boca Raton, FL, home. That is why you must devise a fire escape strategy.

Making Your Home Fire Escape Plan Perfect

If a fire ever occurs in your West Boca Raton, FL, house, you do not want to be caught unprepared. That is why you should create a fire escape plan. This will help everyone in your home stay calm and know what to do during an emergency. Here are some ways to perfect your strategy.

1. Remove Barriers to Doors or Windows
A basic escape strategy involves identifying two ways out of each room in your house. You need to make sure those exits remain clear at all times. Do not let toys or furniture block doors or windows. You should also avoid nailing or painting over windows of your home. Finally, if you have security bars on windows or doors, make sure they can be quickly released.

2. Consider Infants, Senior Citizens and Guests
As you make your fire escape plan, keep in mind any members of your household who have mobility issues. Assign one member of your home to assist babies or disabled adults during an emergency. You should also designate a backup person in case the primary individual given this task is not home during the fire.

Similarly, anytime you welcome guests into your home, make sure they know the details of your escape strategy. You should also find out the evacuation strategy for any other houses you or your kids visit.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice
While over 70 percent of Americans have a strategy for escaping a home fire, less than half of those people have practiced it. Emergency drills ensure that everyone understands the plan and help you identify potential faults in that plan. You should run an escape drill twice each year, with one of the tests occurring at night.

With a proper fire preparation strategy, you can keep your family safe during a major blaze. Make a fire escape plan and practice it regularly. In between your drills, keep all doors and windows clear of barriers. You never know when you will need to exit your home quickly.

What Should I Prioritize When My Kitchen Sink Leaks?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

A small leak underneath the kitchen sink in your Boca Raton, FL can quickly escalate into flooding if you do not respond fast.

When my kitchen sink leaks, what should I do first?

A small leak underneath the kitchen sink can quickly escalate into flooding if you do not respond fast. Turning off the water supply, decreasing the damage, and contacting the right people in Boca Raton, FL, are all important steps, but there are also less obvious concerns. As you deal with water home incidents, you might need to prioritize the following factors for a successful process.

Safety
The presence of excess water in the kitchen creates numerous hazards that can endanger yourself and others. A wet electronic appliance can shock you and a large body of water can conduct electricity. Even a small amount of water can cause you to slip and fall. Fragile wet ceilings usually break apart and fall, hitting anyone nearby. Avoid using electronic devices and shut down the power if possible. If the area is too flooded, prevent all entry until professionals arrive.

Valuables
The water damage caused by leaks and potential flooding can devastate belongings inside and beyond the kitchen. Some valuable items you should protect from water include:

• Kitchen appliances and utensils
• Wood furniture
• Decorations and art
• Books and magazines
• Carpeting
• Fabric and leather items

Remove these items from the wet area if you can. Ensure all devices are turned off and unplugged before removing them. If your furniture touches wet carpeting, use wood blocks or aluminum foil to protect it.

Assistance
Calling for assistance is an important step, but you will need to contact multiple factions to assist you. When you speak with your insurance agent, you should gather detailed information about the damage so you get the appropriate coverage. A cleanup and restoration team can work with you to conduct kitchen repairs. You should also hire a licensed and bonded plumber to fix the original flaw that started the situation.

Something as small as a leaky kitchen sink can create stress-inducing situations such as flooding, water damage, and mold. Control these situations by prioritizing important elements like safety and property protection whenever possible.

3 Reasons Renters May Need Flood Insurance

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Even if you have renter's insurance, you likely don't have coverage for flood damage.

Listed Below Are Three Reasons Why Renters May Require Flood Insurance.

As a Highland Beach, FL, tenant, you might assume that you don't need flood insurance. After all, you won't be responsible for restoring the building in the case of water damage, right? The thing is, any of your personal belongings inside that building could quickly become damaged in the event of a flood. Consider these 3 reasons you may need flood insurance.

1. You Already Have Renter's Insurance

Even if you have renter's insurance, you likely don't have coverage for flood damage. Standard renter's insurance policies won't cover water damage caused by storms and flooding. If you already have renter's insurance, check your policy and seek out a separate flood policy to make sure you are covered.

2. You Live in a High-Risk Area

All homes carry some risk of flood damage, and adding flood insurance to your renter's insurance keeps you better protected. However, high-risk areas are especially vulnerable to water damage and in need of coverage. Check out FEMA's Flood Map to see whether you live in a high-risk zone. Renters typically do not fall under the requirement to have flood insurance in high-risk areas, but it is a good indicator of the level of risk you take on by not having insurance coverage.

3. You Are Not Prepared to Replace Your Belongings

Water damage can get very expensive. Just one inch of flooding may damage several thousand dollars' worth of your personal property. Compare the costs of replacing your belongings with the cost of available flood insurance policies as you weigh the risks and benefits of coverage. If you are prepared to replace all of your important items at a moment's notice, having insurance coverage may be less vital. If replacing a large portion of your belongings would be a struggle for you, flood insurance can help you to keep your bases covered.

Most renters are aware of the benefits of renter's insurance, but you may not have realized that flood damage isn't covered on standard policies. If you live in a high-risk area, or you just want to make sure you can replace your belongings if needed, find a flood insurance policy that will keep you protected.

What To Do If You Smell Natural Gas In Your Home

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Ventilating your home may help release some of the gas buildup that could lead to a gas fire.

If You Smell Natural Gas in Your House, What Should You Do?

Have you ever smelled natural gas? That’s a bit of a trick question. In its raw state, natural gas is odorless, colorless, and nearly impossible to detect. It’s also highly flammable — a dangerous combination. To reduce this danger, gas companies add a non-toxic chemical called mercaptan into the gas before distribution. Mercaptan is the source of that distinctive, “rotten egg” smell that most people associate with gas. The scent is unpleasant, but it makes a gas leak much easier to detect. If you ever smell mercaptan in your home, follow these precautions to prevent a gas fire from breaking out.

1. Keep the House Dark

Depending on the severity of the leak, any electrical current could spark a gas explosion. Don’t turn on any lights or other electrical devices. This includes battery-operated devices such as cell phones and flashlights. Never ignite a lighter or match.

2. Check Your Stove Knobs

A gas stove is one of the most common culprits of a gas leak, since bumping a knob can accidentally turn on the gas. Check the knobs on your stove to ensure that they are all in the “off” position.

3. Open Windows and Doors

Ventilating your home may help release some of the gas buildup that could lead to a gas fire. Open doors and windows, but only if you can do so quickly.

4. Get Out of the House

Evacuate the house, including pets. Do not start your car, especially if the car is in an attached garage. Don’t turn on your phone until you are a safe distance from the house.

5. Contact Authorities

When you are your family are safely across the street or down the block, call 911 or other emergency response service for Highland Beach, FL, then call your gas company. Stay nearby and wait for help to arrive.

A home fire can be devastating, and fire damage cleanup is often long and arduous. Sticking to these tips will help minimize your risk of a gas fire.

How You Can Prevent Recurring Mold Problems

3/27/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team has the training, experience, and equipment to properly remediate any size mold infestation that might occur in your business.

How To Prevent Mold Infestation In the Future

One of the most frustrating things about commercial property ownership is discovering you have water issues in your building. Whether it’s coming from something obvious like a leak or hidden sources, water can lead to structural damage and mold growth if it’s not addressed properly. If you’re noticing that mold keeps growing back in the same area, it’s worth investigating the cause and asking these two questions:

Have You Checked Your Moisture Levels Lately?

High humidity provides an ideal climate for mold, especially in warmer climates and when the temperature is between 60-80 degrees indoors — a common range for most buildings. You can buy an inexpensive moisture meter called a hygrometer to test the area in question. Place the meter three feet above the ground and in as little as three minutes, it will give you a readout of your humidity levels. Any reading above 60% indicates there is too much moisture in the air and that there is a water source somewhere responsible for the elevated levels.

Has Your Space Been Professionally Evaluated?

Mold remediation specialists in Hamptons At Boca Raton, FL, can inspect and evaluate the area for several different criteria:

• Moisture and humidity levels
  
• Primary or secondary water damage
  
• The presence of hyphal fragments — essentially, microscopic “roots” of mold — that cause it to grow quickly and indicate a colony of mold growth in the area

Once they’ve determined what they’re dealing with, technicians can begin the process of remediation, which includes addressing the source of water, removing any damaged and mold-ridden materials, scrubbing and filtering the air and helping you prevent further issues.

Most property owners have to deal with mold growth at some time or other, but it doesn’t have to be a recurring problem for you. Understanding the conditions under which it grows and taking steps to remedy the environment will help prevent future encounters with mold in your property.

Take These 3 Steps to Prevent Further Wind Damage

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Storms and wind gusts can be strong enough to force even sturdy plant life against your structure.

Take These Three Steps to Avoid More Wind Damage

Your Highland Beach, FL, business being ravaged by powerful wind exposes it to multiple issues such as a roof leak and decreased security. The repairs might take some time to complete so you will need to prevent damage escalation in the meantime. Take the following steps to protect the building during this vulnerable stage, ensure a faster restoration and avoid additional costs.

1. Call the Professionals

Depending on the level of wind damage, you will likely need outside help not just repairing the damage, but also preventing anything that could worsen it. For instance, a storm repair team will include additional measures that control the existing damage. Roof specialists can also assist with issues ranging from missing shingles to large openings. Do not forget to record and document all the existing damage to present it to both repair professionals and your insurance agent for efficient results.

2. Use Tarp and Plywood

Another way to prevent growing damage, a roof leak or potential trespassing is using materials such as tarp and plywood to cover any potential openings. Any unauthorized entrance can severely set back any progress made in the reconstruction procedure. Additionally, these materials provide some structure that can delay deterioration. Use tarp on a damaged roof to prevent more elements from entering the area and board up lower windows, doors and ground-level openings. Again, hire experienced contractors to handle this task.

3. Remove Any Trees

If your business is located near trees or large plants, there is a strong chance some may have fallen through the building. Storms and wind gusts can be strong enough to force even sturdy plant life against your structure. Fallen trees can create devastating damage, which can get worse if left alone or moved incorrectly. Protect your property and hire a tree company to inspect and remove the trees.

The recovery of your business can get complicated by additional damage such as a roof leak. Work with established contractors to mitigate the effects of wind damage.

How To Fix a Flooded Basement

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

If you are able to determine the cause of the flooding, take steps to prevent it from happening again as you clean up and rebuild.

What To Do If Your Basement Is Flooded

Whether your basement flood was caused by a storm outside or a faulty appliance inside, knowing where to start in cleaning up and dealing with the mess can be overwhelming. If your business in Boca Del Mar, FL, suffers a flood, here are a few steps to fix the basement in the safest manner.

1. Remove the Water

Do not walk into a flooded basement before removing the water. While there may be debris and other things in the water you don't want to touch, the real danger is electrocution. If the water is only an inch or two deep and you are able to get to the service panel safely without touching the water, do so carefully and turn off the electricity. Then, use a shop vac plugged in upstairs to remove the water. If the water so deep that outlets and service panel are submerged, do not attempt to remove the water yourself.

Call the fire department via a nonemergency line or call a water damage restoration specialist. That amount of water requires specialized equipment to be removed safely by trained professionals.

2. Decide What To Keep and What To Toss

Once the water has been removed from a basement flood, sort through everything that was submerged or damaged by the water. To avoid mold growth, try to quickly dry out and clean everything that can be salvaged. All items that are too damaged should be disposed of swiftly. Any gas or electrical appliances should be replaced. The drywall below the floodwater should be torn out and replaced.

3. Prevent Future Flooding

If you are able to determine the cause of the flooding, take steps to prevent it from happening again as you clean up and rebuild. Install a sump pump, fix the foundation, or reconsider your gutters to draw rainwater away from the structure properly.
The aftermath of a basement flood often involves specialized cleaning, repairs, and possibly rebuilding. Check with your insurance coverage to find out what might be covered. A water damage restoration specialist like SERVPRO may be able to help every step of the way.

Safeguarding Your Business From Storm Destruction

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Protecting Your Business From Storm Damage

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

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

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

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

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

Should You Clean Electronics After a Fire?

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fire cleanup professionals have specialized equipment for handling damaged electronics. Call SERVPRO if you need assistance.

Is It Necessary To Clean Electronics After A Fire?

Homeowners who have recently experienced a fire may be anxious to know whether electronics still work. Do not attempt to turn on any appliances or devices. Exposure to extreme heat and smoke can result in an elevated risk of overheating, short-circuiting and electrical fire. Here are a few fire cleanup recommendations for electronics.

Assess the Extent of Damage

A homeowner may be able to get a sense of the extent of damage without turning on or opening an appliance or device. Look for the following signs of smoke or fire damage:

• A soot coating
  
• Melting
  
• Warping

Electronics that have only suffered smoke damage are better suited for restoration or data recovery than items exposed to intense heat. Keep in mind that temperatures rise rapidly throughout a house during a fire. Even appliances or devices some distance away from a blaze may still sustain heat damage.

Rely on Trained Professionals

Fire cleanup professionals have specialized equipment for handling damaged electronics. These experts will remove these contents to an off-site location and check for several signs of damage:

• A black film over internal components
  
• Corrosion
  
• Exposure to excessive heat

The first two types of damage may be cleaned. If heat has distorted or destroyed circuits, chips or wiring, it may not be possible to restore an appliance or device.

Restore or Replace

Restoration experts can advise homeowners about the best options for electronics. Some items may be capable of being cleaned, while other may need to be replaced. In some cases, replacement may be more cost-effective than a cleaning attempt. Ask about data recovery for hard drives and storage mediums in mobile devices.

Homeowners should turn over damaged electronics to trained restoration professionals. It is important to attempt fire cleanup and testing in an environment with the proper equipment to reduce the risk of another fire at a residence in Boca Del Mar, FL.

3 Top Document Restoration Methods

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

If your documents are damaged by water, call the document restoration specialists at SERVPRO to get your documents back like new.

Three Of The Most Effective Document Restoration Techniques

Whether it’s a critical business document or simply a treasured personal certificate, our documents can be integral to our life and livelihood. What happens when they are damaged in a flood or other disaster?

Many documents can’t be replaced easily while others require time that we can’t afford. Document restoration services offer a great solution when disaster strikes your most important papers. Here are some of the ways Whisper Walk, FL, recovery firms save documents.

How Paper Restoration Works

While in years past, a lost certificate, water-damaged degree or singed letter was damaged forever, advances in technology have turned things around. Now, thanks to advanced restoration processes, companies like SERVPRO can restore: things like

• books and magazines
• paper documents
• manuscripts and files
• x-rays
• photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• parchment
• blueprints and maps

and a myriad of other sensitive documents using means both creative and high tech.

Document Cleaning and Disinfection

Flooding and other events can leave documents exposed to dangerous sewage. Document restoration specialists can help by using gamma irradiation to sterilize harmful bacteria, viruses and chemicals.

Document Drying

Water exposure can leave documents damp at best or soggy at worst. Air dried documents tend toward warping or harmful brittleness that leaves them illegible or vulnerable to damage. Paper restorers use vacuum freeze-drying techniques to extract liquid in a way that keeps documents intact.

Digitizing Services

An alternative to risking paper damage is converting documents to digital formats. SERVPRO restoration specialists can convert your documents to modern digital versions, saving you storage space and peace of mind from the threat of future water damage.

Documents are critical records that reflect everything from intellectual property and business strategies to personal achievements and sentimental milestones. Damage to them no longer must be catastrophic. Call the document restoration specialists at SERVPRO to get your documents back like new.

Four Ways to Prepare Your Business for Bad Weather

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

A sudden storm created a massive water damage at this property. No matter what size disaster might confront you, SERVPRO will be standing by 24/7/365

Four Ways To Get Your Business Ready For Storms

When you are expecting bad weather such as a snow storm in Boca Raton, FL, it might be tempting to carry on business as usual. However, this is rarely a good idea. Storms can create an unsafe environment for you and your workers, so you should make sure that you are properly prepared. Here are some ways to keep your business safe during bad weather.

1. Watch the News to Stay Informed

The first step in being prepared is to stay informed. If you don’t know what is happening, you can’t protect yourself or your business from it. You should make sure to watch the local news and weather reports when you are expecting a big rain or snow storm so you can plan accordingly.

2. Have a Bad Weather Policy

It is a good idea to create a policy for bad weather before you need it. That way you can ensure that all of your employees know what is expected of them in an emergency situation. Having a thorough bad weather policy that includes procedures for a variety of weather conditions will enable everyone to be on the same page. Be sure to include information on when workers will and will not be expected to come into work.

3. Create an Evacuation Plan In Case Of Emergency

If you have employees working during inclement weather, it is important to have an emergency evacuation plan in case things turn bad quickly. Have a designated escape route that you can use to get everyone to a safe area and make sure everyone is familiar with the plan.

4. Protect Your Building

If you are expecting a storm, you should take steps to protect your building as well as your workers. Focus on protecting against moisture by sealing doors and windows as well as keeping the temperature above freezing. If a pipe burst, it could flood the building and leave you needing water damage repairs.

While a snow storm might just seem like an inconvenience, it can easily turn dangerous. Having a proper plan can keep your business safe.

Understanding Fungus: Mold and Mildew

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage is no laughing matter, and it can lead to many problems if not handled properly. However, not every fungal growth is mold.

Mold And Mildew: A Guide To Understanding Fungus

Mold damage may be one of the greatest fears for any homeowner. An infestation can cause thousands in damage, and if a result of lingering issues, homeowners’ insurance may not cover the costs. While it is a fear, most don’t understand the difference between mold and mildew. One is hard to remedy, possibly requiring a specialist, and the other is a simple fix, likely resolved with a store-bought cleaner.

1. Size

Mildew growth can be subtle, often manifesting in small areas and only on the surface. Mold, on the other hand, is more predominant, and when it appears on the surface of a wall, you likely have a more significant issue in the wall cavity.

2. Color

When you encounter actual mold growth and mold damage, the color can be a dead giveaway as to whether it is mildew or mold. Mold is typically black and green. However, it may even be shades of blue and yellow, depending on the surfaces it has invaded. Mildew generally is only one of two colors, either gray or white.

3. Texture

The most apparent difference between mold and mildew is the texture. Mold is overall more textured and is likely fuzzy in appearance. Mildew is flat and appears as more of a stain than a growth.

4. Spread

While both mold and mildew spread quickly, mildew, as a surface fungus, tends to be a little more manageable. Mold, because of its nature, often develops in areas that are not easily visible, meaning that when it is discovered, it is more of an infestation. If you find mold, there is likely more lurking behind drywall and under floorboards. In most cases, you may need a mold remediation specialist in the West Boca Raton, FL, area to asses the damage.

Mold damage is no laughing matter, and it can lead to many problems if not handled properly. However, not every fungal growth is mold. Mildew is a manageable growth that can be resolved with basic household cleaners.

Make Your Homeowners Insurer Happy: Avoid Water Damage With These Simple Tips

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage is the number one reason for homeowners insurance claims. The thing about water damage, however, is that it is usually preventable.

Make Your Homeowners Insurance Company Happy: Follow These Simple Steps To Avoid Water Damage.

Water damage is the number one reason for homeowners' insurance claims in the United States. The thing about water damage, however, is that, the majority of the time, it's preventable. Water in home is often the result of a broken pipe, burse pipe or leaking pipe. In the minority of instances, it is the result of flooding, which, to some extent, can also be prevented. If you want to get on. Your insurer's good side, there are measures you can take today to prevent costly water damage in your home.

• Check your appliances.
• Have your HVAC unit inspected.
• Inspect pipes for condensation or erosion.

It doesn't take much to prevent water damage. Below is a brief guide of how and why you should implement the above tips.

Give Your Appliances a Once Over

Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters and refrigerators are a common source of water in the home. Aging materials crack, connections become loose and cold weather causes pipe bursts. You can prevent all from happening by conducting routine maintenance on all appliances and wrapping pipes with insulation if you live in a colder climate.

Request an HVAC Inspection

There are countless reasons to have your HVAC unit inspected. For one, routine maintenance can prevent costly issues. Two, regular inspections can ensure that your units are clean and therefore, only push out clean air. Three, maintenance technicians can spot moisture issues and correct them before they become costly and damaging.

Inspect Your Pipes

Pipes run all throughout your home. There are pipes in your bathroom, in your kitchen and in your laundry room. They run down into your basement and possibly up to your attic. They run through your walls and beneath your floorboards. For this reason, a single leak can become a costly and damaging problem. You can prevent costly water damage in your home by inspecting your pipes on a routine basis or, at the very least, hiring someone else to do it for you.

Pipe cleanup can be costly. You can prevent it by working with a Boca Raton, FL, water damage restoration team to identify issues and correct them before they become expensive problems.

Do’s and Dont’s of Preparing Your Business For a Fire

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Along with fire insurance, every business should have a fire contingency plan.

Do's And Don'ts Of Fire Preparedness For Your Business

A business fire is nothing anyone wants to think about - but failing to prepare for the unthinkable can result in a longer recovery process. Along with fire insurance, every business should have a fire contingency plan. Here are a few do’s and dont’s of readying your Boca Del Mar, FL, business for a fire event.

Most business owners think of fire damage in basic terms of physical damage. But there are lots of other headaches a fire can create like:

• Loss of income
• Brand damage
• Loss of records

And so on. When thinking about fire preparation, you’ll want to spend time truly considering all the implications a fire can have for your unique business, and preparing accordingly.

DO prepare for storage

Fires often leave properties unable to be properly locked and secured from would-be thieves. This can leave expensive equipment open to loss. Prepare yourself by identifying a safe off-site place where your most valuable assets can be stashed in an emergency.

DO backup important data

Proprietary information, sensitive client data - all of these things can be destroyed in a fire, or your access to them restricted during cleanup. Make sure to back up your most important data, either on a thumb drive, in a secure cloud or by making old fashioned paper copies.

DON’T forget to make sure your insurance covers business interruption

Some of the most devastating fallout from a business fire can involve loss of a profits. Your business may be closed for some time, creating a profit loss that can have a domino effect. Contact your fire insurance provider in advance to add on business interruption coverage. This can cover everything loss of profits to costs for temporary relocation.

Few business owners think about recovering from a business fire until they’re a victim. Don’t get caught with your pants down. Make these and other preparations against a fire catastrophe and ensure you’ll be ready when it matters.

Broken Pipes: What Will Your Insurer Cover?

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

A water damage is a significant problem for homeowners, but homeowner’s policy agreements usually protect them in these instances.

What Will Your Insurance Cover If Your Pipes Burst?

While every insurance coverage policy varies and is conditional, a sudden flood caused by broken pipes will likely be covered. However, that is dependent on the underlying circumstances and conditions that resulted in the pipe failure. In signing the insurance contract, homeowners make a promise to maintain their property, which means that whether you are covered depends on your commitment to that promise.

Sudden and Unexpected Breaks.

Most insurers will cover sudden and unexpected breaks, meaning that there was no way to predict the mishap. However, many insurance companies have certain expectations for upkeep. Therefore, it is a good idea that you keep all receipts from inspections and repairs to prove that negligence was not a part of the pipe failure.

Secondary Damage.

For flood claims that pass muster, an insurer will likely cover secondary damage as well. Secondary damage refers to any items that were harmed because of the water buildup or broken pipe — for instance, carpets, furnishings, artwork, important documents and any other material or equipment that may have been harmed.

Possible Prevention and Restoration.

In addition to covering damage, many insurers will provide funds to fix a broken pipe, restore the damage, and even upgrade elements to prevent a potential disaster in the future. As these are significant expenses, your insurance provider may require you to get several quotes and estimates from emergency restoration companies in the Mission Bay,FL, area. These companies are typically one-stop shops for all of your restoration needs, either handling your case entirely in-house or helping to facilitate contracts for renovation efforts.

A flood caused by broken pipes and leading to water damage is a significant problem for homeowners, but homeowner’s policy agreements usually protect them in these instances. As long as the homeowner can disprove negligence, if not already apparent, then an insurer will likely have no issue approving coverage on your insurance claim.

3 Ways To Prevent Water Damage During Construction.

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

If your business suffers water damage, you can call SERVPRO. Here is another example of how we will help you with any damage.

During Construction, There Are Three Ways To Avoid Water Damage.

Constructing a new area or making renovations can benefit your business in Whisper Walk,FL in many ways. However, avoiding a water pipe repair or a leaking appliance can result in water damage during construction. There are several ways in which you can prevent water damage from occurring during construction.

1. Protect Important Areas and Items.

In order to ensure that water doesn’t cause major damage to your business, it can sometimes be helpful to make sure certain areas in your business and items in your business are protected. For example, it’s often wise to make sure any electrical systems are turned off or moved away from the construction to prevent them from coming in contact with water. Additionally, using waterproof containers to store important documents can give you peace of mind.

2. Monitor Water Use Before and During Construction.

If you know the average amount of water your business uses before construction, keeping track of the amount of water being used during construction will be easier. If you notice a sudden spike in your water usage, you can search for the potential causes of the jump in water usage. Additionally, if you do notice an increase in your water use prior to construction, it’s often best not to put off the water pipe repair or other issue, and instead fix the problem before construction begins.

3. Conduct Frequent Inspections.

Throughout construction, it can be helpful to inspect your building to ensure there are no hidden issues. It can be particularly useful to inspect your appliances and pipes if they are near the area that is under construction, as these items are more likely to become damaged. By doing these inspections, you are more likely to notice a leaky or broken pipe or appliance, and you may be able to prevent your building from becoming flooded.

Monitoring your water usage and making a water pipe repair or fixing other issues before construction, keeping your building and documents safe and conducting frequent inspections can help you prevent water damage. Consider contacting water damage restoration professionals if your business has already sustained damage.

Helpful Hints to Minimize Fire Risks While Cooking

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage cleanup and restoration is not an easy task. If your home or business in Boca Raton, FL is damaged by a fire, call SERVPRO.

Tips For Reducing The Risk Of A Fire When Cooking.

Of all the rooms in your home where you gather and spend time, the kitchen may be the most popular. Not only do you prepare and eat meals here, but it’s a common place to visit with one another and with visitors. It shouldn’t surprise anyone to know that fires occur here often. Many of these mishaps start due to poor cooking techniques or simply not paying attention while at the stove or oven. Here are some tips to help avoid fires from starting in your Boca Raton, FL, kitchen.

Make Sure Your Appliances Are in Tip-Top Shape.

You no doubt use your stove, oven and other kitchen appliances frequently. Over time, like anything else, they’ll begin to falter. Faulty appliances are a big cause for fire damage. Make sure they are working properly and efficiently:

• Have a trained professional service your oven and stove if you detect any issues.
• Service your appliances if they are more than 10 years old.
• Clean your appliances, including the toaster, regularly.

Be Careful With Grease.

If you enjoy frying foods, you probably use some type of cooking oil. While this can help concoct some delicious meals, it can also lead to a grease fire. Don’t overfill your pans with oil when you cook on the stove. Also, make sure you promptly clean up any cooking oil spills.

Don’t Walk Away.

It’s easy to let ringing phones, television shows, knocks on the door or needy children distract you. However, don’t ever leave your food unattended on the stove. Heat can build up quickly and can ignite and catch fire nearby. Of all the tips to help prevent fires

Watch out for Towels.

People typically hang towels near the oven or stove. If you do this, make sure they are far enough away that they don’t pose a hazard.

If you have to call in an expert to clean up after a fire, there are trained professionals who can help. However, if you are aware of these tips, you can keep your kitchen and home free of fire concerns.

5 Candle Alternatives You Should Know About

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

One of the best ways to avoid a candle fire is by using candles that don’t have a flame at all.

5 Candle Substitutes You Should Be Aware Of

Across the country one of the many house fires start from an unattended open flame such as a candle. This includes many fires in Boca Raton, FL. Fortunately, for those who love the look and feel of a lit candle, or some of the many wonderful scents these come in, there are various candle alternatives available. Here are five you may want to consider.

1. Flameless Candles

One of the best ways to avoid a candle fire is by using candles that don’t have a flame at all. These are often battery operated, however, they’re programmed to mimic the flickering light effect many people enjoy.

2. Flameless Lantern

A lantern traditionally is a candle placed within a shade. Nowadays many are designed without the candle part of the equation. These can still provide the warm look of candle light, and some even flicker, however they use a battery or wall plug instead of open flame.

3. Warming Bases

If what you love is the scent of warm wax, a warming base may be your go-to option for candle alternatives. These bases use a lamp or warming plate to heat the wax and provide you with scent, without a flame.

4. Plug-in Air Fresheners

Many air fresheners come in the same scents as many candles. Plug-in fresheners can even mimic the look and feel of a candle but don’t carry the same risk of candle fire.

5. Heatless Fresheners

heatless options for keeping your room fresh could include a variety of air freshener styles. Many come in sprays that contain the same scents as candles. Others include forms of potpourri and oil diffusers.

These are all great candle alternatives you can include in your home, and while some do use batteries or a wall outlet, none carry the same fire risk as leaving an open flame unattended. Remember, in the unfortunate event your do end up with fire or smoke damage in your home, a Boca Raton, FL, fire damage professional may be able to help.

Top Tips for a Successful Water Supply Line Replacement

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Before commencing your supply line replacement, you should turn off the main water valve. Then, open faucets to drain your home’s water pipes.

Top Water Supply Line Replacement Hints

The water supply lines connected to your bathroom sinks and toilets are an often overlooked but essential component of your plumbing system. Although it can occur in any home, older homes are susceptible to bathroom leaks resulting from supply line damage. Fortunately, replacing worn lines is typically a simple task that most homeowners in Boca Del Mar, FL, can readily accomplish. To complete the job successfully, keep the following tips in mind.

1. Drain Pipes

Before commencing your supply line replacement, you should turn off the main water valve. Then, open faucets to drain your home’s water pipes.

2. Choose a Durable Supply Line

Supply lines made of all metal or copper can kink and often wear out easily. A better alternative is a braided steel line fastened with brass nuts. Because of its durable design, braided steel typically does not kink and is more resistant to supply line damage.

3. Ensure a Watertight Connection

To help prevent a future supply line leak, it’s essential that you ensure a watertight connection. To accomplish this, use pipe dope or thread tape. If you use tape, wrap it five or six times in a clockwise direction to minimize the risk of it loosening when you tighten the nuts.

4. Avoid Overtightening

Be cautious when you attach your new supply lines. If you overtighten the connection, you may warp the threads or damage the rubber O-ring.

5. Assess For Leaks

Before finalizing your work, you should verify the absence of leaks. After reinstating water flow, thoroughly inspect the new supply lines and the connections to ensure a watertight fit.

6. Protect the Supply Lines

A braided steel supply line is durable. However, to help prevent damaging corrosion, avoid exposing the exterior sleeve to chlorine and other potentially corrosive chemicals.

Depending on the line’s composition, supply line damage is sometimes unavoidable. If not addressed quickly, a bathroom leak caused by a faulty supply line can cause significant water damage, resulting in time-consuming and potentially costly cleanup and restoration requirements. Preemptively replacing aging water supply lines in your home may save you from this hassle.

Effective Flood Prevention Measures for Urban Areas

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Because every urban area is unique, ideal flood control strategies will vary from city to city.

Measures to Prevent Flooding In Urban Areas That Work

No business owner in Boca Raton, FL, wants to endure water damage from a flood, but no community is immune from this potential disaster. Significant rainfall can overwhelm drainage and sewage systems and result in high water levels in rivers, lakes and other waterways. Because flood cleanup and restoration endeavors can be costly, every city should employ effective flood prevention measures to protect the interests and wellbeing of the entire community.

Because every urban area is unique, ideal flood control strategies will vary from city to city. Fortunately, a variety of methods exist to help stop flooding.

1. Levees, Dikes and Dams

For towns and cities located near large bodies of water, constructing a levee, dike or dam may be an efficient way to minimize or control high water levels. You can, for example, build a dam across a lake to retain and release water as necessary.

To prevent water from overflowing a river’s banks and inundating the surrounding land, you can utilize levees and dikes, which are embankments built along the water source. Although typically efficient flood prevention measures, dikes and levees can fail under extreme conditions, such as a strong hurricane. For this reason, communities that utilize these measures should also employ additional safeguards to help stop flooding.

2. Drainage Channels and Detention Basins

Drainage channels and detention basins can also help reduce an urban area’s flood risk by providing designated areas for water to flow away from streets, homes and businesses. Detention basins also temporarily store water, helping to reduce the rate of runoff into the storm sewer. This may prevent the system from becoming inundated.

3. Separate Rainwater and Sewer Water Pipes

Recognizing that excessive rainfall can overwhelm the sewer system, some urban communities are updating their infrastructure and providing separate pipes for rainwater and sewer water. This technique may help prevent damage and enhance the city’s water management capacity.

High water levels can severely damage homes and businesses. To provide peace of mind to both residents and business owners, every urban area should have well-designed and efficient mechanisms in place to manage water levels and help prevent flooding.

3 Reasons To Throw Away Food and Cosmetics After a Fire

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage cleanup and restoration isn't an easy task. If your home in Boca Raton, FL is damaged by a fire, give SERVPRO a call.

After A Fire, There Are Three Reasons To Throw Away Food And Cosmetics.

There are a number of household items that can be damaged beyond repair or even made unsafe by exposure to the high heat of a house fire. You may want to throw away all the food, medication and cosmetics that were in the house at the time of the fire for these reasons to keep yourself and your family safe.

1. Food May Be Burned or Covered With Soot or Extinguishing Chemicals

Regardless of the packaging, if food items have been subjected to heat, smoke, water or chemicals used to smother a fire, they should be discarded. This includes food that was stored outside the refrigerator or freezer. Food packaging may be permeable to these contaminants, and high heat can cause jars and cans to split or crack, allowing contaminants in.

2. The Refrigerator and Freezer Are Not Fireproof Safes

Refrigerator seals are not necessarily airtight, and smoke or soot may have penetrated the interior of the appliance. Also, fires can lead to loss of power. If frozen food has thawed or if refrigerated food has reached 40 degrees or above for more than 2 hours, it may be spoiled. Get rid of this potentially unsafe food without tasting it. Throw away the food if there is any doubt about whether it has been ruined or tainted.

3. Medication and Cosmetics May Be Rendered Unsafe by Fire Damage

Look closely in your medicine cabinet or wherever you have medicines and cosmetics stored. Dispose of items that have any soot or firefighting chemicals on them. If a container has been heat damaged, discard it. Fire creates toxic fumes, and because you cannot clean your makeup, you run the risk of putting hazardous chemicals on your skin if you keep it and use it.

Dealing with a home fire in Boca Raton, FL, can be emotionally draining. Despite the instinct to salvage items after so much has been destroyed, it may be safer to throw away food, medicine and cosmetics that have been exposed to fire damage.

How Commercial Fire Sprinkler's Work: The Basics

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

A lot of people are hesitant to install fire sprinklers in their buildings because of a few unprecedented misconceptions.

The Basics Of Commercial Fire Sprinklers

If you've ever looked up at the ceiling of a commercial building and wondered how a tiny fire sprinkler can help stop a fire, you're not alone. Commercial fire sprinklers are small and unimposing, but they are actually a huge help. If you're not convinced, consider these quick facts:

• Fire sprinklers are backed by piping that is filled with water, so that the sprinklers are always "on call," so to speak.
• Sprinklers often respond quicker than any fire department ever could, and thereby make it easier for occupants to evacuate safely.
• Sprinklers can help control or limit the amount of toxic smoke that develops in a building.
• Commercial sprinklers spray more than 25 gallons of water per minute.

How a Fire Suppression System Works

A sprinkler system becomes activated as soon as the temperature near the sprinkler rises to a certain degree. The water that has been sitting in the pipelines, waiting for release, gushes out as soon as the fire sprinkler opens up, spewing water so forcefully on the flames that, in most cases, they're extinguished immediately. Though heat activates a sprinkler, smoke does not, which is a good thing, as smoke often travels to areas of a building that are not affected by or at risk of a fire. If an errant sprinkler does go off, it can significantly add to your fire sprinkler cleanup efforts.

Because sprinklers respond immediately, they can help contain an inferno and even extinguish it entirely. This can not only reduce the amount of property damage, but it can also save lives.

Misconceptions Regarding Sprinkler Systems

A lot of people are hesitant to install fire sprinklers in their buildings because of a few unprecedented misconceptions. Some such misconceptions include the following:

• Fire sprinklers are prone to accidental activation.
• Smoke often activates sprinklers.
• All of a building's sprinklers activate at once.

The above misconceptions are dangerous, as they prevent building owners from investing in the necessary safety equipment. Don't be fooled by such myths, and talk to your Boca Del Mar, FL, fire restoration team about the benefits of a fire sprinkler system, how they actually work and why your building needs one.

The Return of the Mold: How To Minimize Your Risk of Repeat Growth

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can resolve any black mold problem in your home. Call us!

The Return of Mold: How to Reduce Your Chances of Recurring Growth

It is impossible to have a completely mold-free home. Mold is in the air. It hitches a ride on your clothes and hair when you come in from outside your home in Highland Beach, FL, and it seeks out any moisture source it can find. Black mold growth can appear in areas that have water damage from leaks or malfunctioning plumbing. Mold remediation experts can resolve the problem, but unless you take certain precautions, the mold could return, even after professional cleanup.

1. Maintain Your Home.

Vigilant maintenance is the key to preventing the need for future mold cleanup. Take note of the places in your home where condensation tends to gather or leaks often occur. Fix the problems causing the leaks. This not only prevents unsightly water damage but also denies black mold spores a place to land and thrive.

2. Ventilate Stagnant Areas.

Your attic gets stuffy quite easily, so you must make sure that it is properly ventilated. Moisture is more likely to gather in areas lacking in air flow. Giving the stale air in these places a place to escape outside your home can be an effective mold growth deterrent.

3. Control the Humidity.

Your indoor humidity should stay within a range of 30 and 50 percent. Humid rooms are prone to mold issues. Exhaust fans in your kitchen, laundry room and bathrooms can help prevent the need for mold cleanup.

4. Hire Professionals.

If you do discover a mold problem in your home, don’t try to clean it up yourself. Certified technicians are trained to assess the problem and resolve it thoroughly. If your mold issue is not resolved completely, it is likely to return again.

Mold remediation specialists can resolve a problem with black mold in your home. Your responsibility is to do everything you can to keep the problem from recurring by making your home a place where mold feels less welcome.

3 Ways To Deal With Commercial Rentals and Dated Piping

9/26/2021 (Permalink)

Scheduled, regular maintenance of old pipes, regardless if they are polybutylene, ensures your Boca Del Mar, FL, business remains operational.

An older commercial rental can require special considerations regarding maintenance. The pipes could consist of outdated materials such as polybutylene that are no longer used because of longevity concerns. Even worse, you may not receive your landlord’s permission to do any systematic overhaul to prevent future problems. Here are three ways you can maintain the property during your tenancy.

1. Maintain a Dialogue With Your Landlord

Depending on the lease agreement, some responsibilities may lie with the landlord. You should immediately inform your landlord of noticeable problems, such as leaky pipes, so the issue can be remedied or documented. By practicing diligence, you can stop the blame from being misattributed to gross negligence.

In addition, you should take photographs of the damage when it’s first noticed. You can then forward these on to the landlord to show the situation and potentially urge her to act.

2. Evaluate Risks and Watch Weak Areas

Even if you don’t own the building, you should still familiarize yourself with its structural risks and flaws. For example, your utilities could be connected with polybutylene pipes that deteriorate from the inside when exposed to tap water.

You should recommend replacing the system with the landlord if you notice multiple rusted, flimsy, old, weak, or damaged pipes. By keeping on top of your rental’s wellbeing, you can prevent costly repairs and shutdowns.

3. Know Your Insurance and Responsibilities

In case your landlord is cleared of responsibility due to your lease or your own provable negligence, you should familiarize yourself with your renter’s insurance policy. By knowing your entire policy, you can utilize it effectively in dire situations. It is beneficial to evaluate and adjust your policy’s coverage to compensate for your lease’s exceptions.

Scheduled, regular maintenance of old pipes, regardless if they are polybutylene, ensures your Boca Del Mar, FL, business remains operational. In the event that water does seep in, a damage restoration service can remove the flood and restore damaged assets. With your best efforts to maintain the rental’s condition, however, you can mitigate the risks of water damage.

Preparing for Flood Damage

9/19/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to remember that remediation services are only a phone call or email away.

Homeowners in Boca Raton, FL, are like many homeowners all over the country: cognizant that flooding in any season is a potential threat and that working to minimize its destruction makes good sense. Investing time and effort ahead of a deluge is well worth the favorable outcome that can result from a proactive stance.

Proactive Flood Tips

There are many steps that homeowners can take to minimize flood damage in the event that waters rise. Some are straightforward inspection and maintenance issues that can be accomplished relatively quickly and easily.

• Clear debris from gutters and downspouts. If water can move freely through them, it has a better chance of being carried away from basements and foundations.
• Check that outflows from the home are fully operational.
• Install a sump pump or purchase an on-demand submersible pump and drainage hose, and regularly test them.
• Carry adequate flood insurance, especially if the home occupies an area prone to floods. Acquire sandbags and a source for filling them.
• Ensure that storm drains are clear and notify municipal authorities of any blockages that occur.
• Consider elevating appliances such as washers, dryers, and dehumidifiers in basements or other low-lying areas.
• Store irreplaceable documents and valuables off-site, such as in a safe-deposit box.


Plan a Calm Response

In the event that flooding occurs that surpasses efforts to prevent its incursion, it is important to also have a response plan. Monitor local weather alerts and evacuate promptly if directed to do so. Assemble your family and pets. If staying at home is an option, move belongings to higher ground and place electrical appliances at the top. Cut power to avoid the risk of electrocution. Gather needed medications, food, drinking water, phones and their chargers.

It is important to remember that remediation services are only a phone call or email away. Storm damage and flooding remediation can begin as soon as travel becomes safe again.

Why Does Rain Bring Mold to Your Home?

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

No one wants to deal with black mold and other types of mold in their home.

In many cases, Boca Raton, FL, homeowners welcome rainstorms. The precipitation brings moisture to lawns and gardens, and it can fill reservoirs with drinking water. However, if parts of your home aren’t secure, you might experience flooding and black mold following a rainstorm. It’s vital that you check your home to ensure water isn’t getting inside when it rains.

Get on the Roof

Attics are common places for mold cleanup. If you find mold in this part of your home, chances are good that you’ve got a roof leak. Here are some ways to find out:

• Get on your roof and inspect it for missing shingles.
• Check for soft spots on the roof.
• Look for obvious signs of damage such as holes and cracks.

If your sure up your roof, you shouldn’t have to worry about water seeping through and introducing mold.

Check Your Drainage

As your up on your roof, make sure you look at your rain gutters. Clear them of debris, and make sure the downspouts are diverting water away from your home. Clogged gutters can pool water near the foundation of your water after it rains, which can introduce water into your home. This could, in turn, cause mold growth.

Check Your Windows

Has it been a while since you replaced your windows? If you have black mold on your walls, it may be because water is getting inside when rains. Make sure you have properly sealed your windows.

The Solution

A mold remediation company is your key to identifying and getting rid of mold. These specialists can also help you repair areas of concern in your home such as the roof, foundation, windows, and more.

No one wants to deal with black mold and other types of mold in their home. If this unwanted guest is showing up after it rains, check for the common signs of water entry.

Mold Removal in Boca Raton, FL

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth can be a major problem for your Boca Raton, FL, business

Mold Growth Prevention

Mold growth can be a major problem for your Boca Raton, FL, business. Fortunately, carpet cleaning and other preventive measures can minimize the likelihood of mold damage.

If your business is prone to mold problems, it may seem that mold is able to grow anywhere. However, there are three things that mold needs to survive:

• Food
• Water
• Warmth

Most indoor locations have many food sources and are warm enough to foster mold growth. Therefore, the easiest condition to remove is water. Keeping your facility dry is key to preventing an infestation. Keep indoor humidity below 50% if possible. You may need to use a dehumidifier or run the air conditioning more frequently to accomplish this. Additionally, repair leaks and dry up standing water as soon as possible. Using mold-resistant products can also decrease the possibility of an infestation. There are fungus-resistant paints, carpets, and upholstery products as well as mold-prevention sprays that you can apply to a variety of surfaces.

Decreasing Mold Spores

In addition to keeping your business dry, decreasing the number of mold spores can reduce the risk of an infestation. Although these spores are invisible and nearly everywhere, there are some things you can do to minimize their presence in your building. Carpet cleaning and routine mopping of hard floors can remove the spores that land on the flooring. Place mats at entryways and keep them clean to catch spores before they are tracked deeper into the building. HEPA filtration systems can trap spores that travel through the air. Try to keep the facility as clean and dust-free as possible. Routinely clean ductwork to reduce built-up spores in the HVAC system.

Dealing with mold growth can seem like an overwhelming task. Whether you need help with carpet cleaning to prevent mold growth or help cleaning up mold damage after an infestation, a certified mold damage cleanup and restoration company can help you with all your cleaning and restoration needs.

3 Tips To Help You Deal With Toilet Overflow

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Calling restoration specialists can help you handle any toilet overflow problems.

3 Ways To Handle Toilet Overflow

Have you ever been standing in the bathroom of your Boca Del Mar, FL house watching in terror as the toilet water continued to rise? Calling in a team of sewer damage restoration specialists can help you handle any toilet overflow problems you have. You can also check out these tips to prepare for the professionals.

1. Understand Why It's Happening

Getting to the bottom of a problem can help you better deal with the issue at hand. There are typically three reasons toilet water comes over the edge: There's a clog that's not allowing the water to escape through the plumbing, there's an error with the float mechanism, or there's a sewer backup. You may be able to solve the first two issues on your own. However, a backup can be a serious problem that requires the help of your sewer company and restoration experts.

2. Stop the Immediate Overflow

A flooded toilet is typically not a pretty sight. You can stop the water from coming over the edge by turning off the toilet's water supply. Check for a valve near the bottom side of the bowl, and turn it counterclockwise.

If you can't find a valve, take off the tank cover. Raise up the float ball or float cup. If you lift it high enough, the water should stop running. If you still can't manage to get the water to stop running, turn off the water supply to your whole house. After you turn off the water, the only reason your toilet would still be overflowing is if there is sewer damage.

3. Get Rid of the Blockage

Assuming you were able to get the water to stop flowing, you now have to get rid of the blockage that caused the problem in the first place. You can use a plunger to dislodge the blockage. You can also call in a plumber if you'd rather not deal with the problem yourself.

Toilet overflows can be a sign of sewer damage. You should try to take care of the problem as quickly as possible.

Fire and Smoke Restoration in Boca Raton, FL

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage in West Boca Raton, FL.

3 Methods for Removing Soot and Smoke from Contents

 Many contents with soot or smoke damage can be cleaned and restored. Homeowners should contact a damage mitigation and restoration company that will take these three steps to determine whether an item is a good candidate for content cleaning. Professionals may use specialized cleaning procedures such as dry-cleaning, foam, or immersion.

1. Remove the Contents

It is necessary to remove items from the location of a fire in order to provide proper treatment. A restoration company will take all of the items that are likely to benefit from cleaning to an off-site facility. There, the condition of these items will be inspected and trained experts will attempt the most effective cleaning treatments.

2. Assess the Condition

Items covered in soot or with smoke residues can usually be cleaned. Contents that are burned or charred are usually not recommended for cleaning. Fire causes chemical changes to take place in most materials that may cause these items to re-contaminate a structure in which damage has been restored. Items that have been exposed to intense heat may be restored on a case-by-case basis. In some situations, heat alone may ruin delicate materials or electronic components and replacement may be necessary.

3. Treat the Contents

A variety of cleaning treatments are available for contents, from restoration-grade dry-cleaning to immersion in a cleaning solution. Depending on the delicacy and porosity of an item, other approaches such as foam cleaning, spraying and wiping or even abrasive blasting may be the best option. Content restoration professionals have access to all of the equipment and solutions necessary to achieve the best results.

Items that have been treated with dry-cleaning or any other restoration method can be held in content storage until restoration work is complete at a residence in West Boca Raton, FL. Homeowners may prefer to work with a company that provides mitigation, restoration, and content cleaning services.

Black Mold: An Unwelcome Visitor

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can grow quickly in humid, wet or water-damaged areas.

Fungus can be good, such as tasty mushrooms that get cooked up in kitchens. Other fungus, like black mold, is definitely bad. This is the kind of mold that people hope never shows up in their kitchens—or in any other room.

Understanding Mold

Black mold gives off tiny spores that can land and start to grow in humid, wet or water-damaged places. Mold also thrives in areas that don’t receive much air circulation. Basements, crawl spaces, bathrooms, ducts, attics, ceilings and window surrounds are particularly susceptible to mold growth.

Common causes of conditions leading to residential mold growth include the following:

• Broken or drippy pipes and other plumbing problems
  
• Issues with heating, cooling and ventilation units
  
• Poor insulation
  
• Leaky roofs and windows
  
• Flooding, seepage and storm damage
  
  

Mold has an unpleasant, musty odor and unsightly appearance, although it’s not always plainly visible. Any home in Boca Del Mar, FL, that has experienced water damage could be a candidate for mold cleanup. Those needing mold remediation services should contact a qualified eradication specialist.

Banishing the Moldy Mess

Experienced professional mold cleaners may first ask several questions to help them determine the scope and nature of the job. Next, they can carefully inspect the residence, using special tools to find “hidden” mold.

Professionals often use a variety of containment equipment, such as HEPA vacuums and negative air chambers, to prevent the spread of mold spores during residential mold eradication. They may also turn off any fans, furnaces or air conditioners so spores aren’t dispersed.

It may be necessary for the mold cleanup specialists to remove and dispose of porous materials that have harbored heavy growth, such as carpeting, drywall or insulation. The professionals may clean and sanitize affected surfaces and apply antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to kill mold and prevent new colonies. Finally, any necessary home restoration can begin.

Restoring a Fresh Home

Done properly, professional mold remediation can leave residents with a fresh, dry and disinfected home free of black mold. Residents can then rest assured that their unwelcome visitor has left the premises.

Cleaning Up After Flood Damage in Boca Raton, FL

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Clean up soon after a flood to prevent mold growth.

After A Flood, Mold Removal

The aftermath of a flood in Boca Raton, FL, can be overwhelming. Such widespread damage may be enough to overwhelm your senses, but what you can’t see may be just as alarming. The humidity and moisture following a flood can provide the perfect environment for mold growth in your home.

Safety First

If you are going to enter a home that has suffered flood damage, there are several precautions you should take:

• Check gas and power. Before entering any structure, make sure the gas and electricity are both turned off and look for any damaged gas or power lines.
• Check for structural damage. Make sure there are no sagging ceilings or other structural damage that would make it unsafe to enter the home.
• Cover your hands. If you are going to be handling things that may have mold growth, cover your skin with thick rubber gloves.
• Cover your mouth. Using a handkerchief may not be enough to keep out mold spores. It is best to use a face mask with a respirator to protect your lungs.
• Cover your eyes. Goggles that fit snugly around your eyes can help keep out dust and other small particles. Avoid goggles with air vents, as they will not provide the same protection.

Clean Up

One of the first things homeowners need to do after a disaster is assess the damage to their homes. Documenting the disaster may be helpful for insurance purposes, so photograph each room before beginning cleanup activities.

Next, determine how much of your home was affected. The Environmental Protection Agency says that areas smaller than 10 square feet can often be addressed by the home owner but suggests that anything larger may be best dealt with by remediation professionals.

Time is essential, as bacteria can grow quickly in standing water and mold may grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Qualified professionals in Boca Raton, FL, are often the best resources for remediation following a flood because of the tight timeframe and potential for hazardous health conditions if not handled properly.

After a flood, prevent mold growth by cleaning up quickly. Take appropriate safety precautions and contact professionals for expert help.

Tips for Protecting Your Pets From Fire

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

If you ever have a fire emergency, you should choose a trustworthy friend or business to look after your dogs.

Your pets are family, so their safety during a fire emergency is a strong concern. Pets can be protected by preventing them from causing a fire and establishing procedures to protect them if a fire happens. With your adequate planning, your pets can continue living a happy and safe life in Boca Raton, FL.

Protect Your Pets From Fire by Keeping Fire Away From Your Pets

Pets can easily cause a house fire. As the first step of pet preparation for fire safety, you should establish your house as a secure place for pets to roam when you are away. There are several situations that can be mitigated by taking preventative measures:

• Turning off or blowing out open flames that pets may investigate when left alone
• Blocking off or removing stove knobs or buttons a curious pet could turn
• Replacing candles with alternatives such as flameless varieties
• Stopping younger pets from being left to roam altogether while you are gone
• Elevating or covering cords that pets may chew to expose the wiring

Plan With Your Pets in Mind

Pet safety during a fire emergency is accomplished by having an escape plan that considers your pets. An emergency supply box should contain vaccination records, ownership certificates and veterinary supplies.

When doing routine fire drills at your house, you should include your pet and establish an easy way to bring them to you such as a verbal call or food trigger. With more skittish pets, a pet carrier should be readily available to prevent the animal from running away due to the stress.

Properly Handle Pets for Your Property’s Restoration

Pets need to often remain relocated while an expert fire damage restoration crew works to restore your home. While temporarily displaced from your residence, you may be put into a hotel where pets are not allowed. You should decide on a trustworthy friend or business to watch over your pets if a fire emergency ever affects you. With your pets’ safety out of mind, you can focus on your home’s restoration.

Your HVAC System Is a Black Mold Superhighway

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth on the ceiling.

Your HVAC System Is a Superhighway for Black Mold

Mold spreads by releasing its spores, letting them float through the air and land where they may. If the spores end up somewhere warm and moist that makes it easy for them to grow, then you could have black mold building up in your facility relatively quickly. You can't always do much about the moisture itself, but you can inhibit mold's mobility and potentially control the source of your water damage problem by taking the following steps:

• Stop the flow of air between rooms
• Turn off the HVAC units
• Switch off your water
  
  

Mold Travels

There are many things that could contribute to the transmission of black mold spores throughout a building in Boca, FL. Some of them are unavoidable:

• Foot traffic
• Water damage or mold cleanup activities
• Construction
  
  

In a normal situation, even major renovations shouldn't spread mold excessively. Unless there's heavy airflow, spores don't travel very far when they go airborne. However, a powerful HVAC system could potentially suck up a significant amount of mold. These spores could then become trapped in the crevices of your ducts to periodically recirculate them throughout your entire facility.

Counterintuitive Solutions

It might seem like dealing with a mold and moisture problem would include cranking your ventilation system all the way up to dry out your rooms. However, that could cause more problems. It's often best to let mold cleanup professionals in Boca, FL  handle the issue. The difference is that the pros use equipment designed specifically to be tough on moisture and mold, while your HVAC system is engineered for a completely different purpose.

Cleaning the Ducts

It's a point of some debate in the black mold remediation community whether or not duct cleaning has a major influence on mold problems. Even the EPA is still undecided on the subject. However, it is a good idea to inspect your ductwork after you discover a mold problem. If you have mold populations lurking in your HVAC system, they're likely to spread.

Fixing a Leaking Faucet in 7 Steps

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Leaky faucets can lead to water damage.

What Are The Steps To Fix A Faucet?

Most homeowners have faced this scenario before: You’re almost asleep when you hear the soft drip, drip, drip of a leaking faucet. By following these seven steps professionals use to fix a dripping faucet, you can rest easy knowing that you’ve properly handled the plumbing issue and your sleep will no longer be threatened.

1. Turn off the water. No one wants a small leak turning into a flood. Turn off the water supply valves beneath the sink. The hot water is usually on the left, and the cold water on the right. To ensure that there won’t be any leaks or surprises, also turn off the main water valve. In many homes throughout Boca Del Mar, FL, the main water line is in the basement or garage.

2. Plug the sink drain. Faucet parts are small and could go down into the trap below the sink. No one wants unnecessary work or additional costs.

3. Put on gloves. Many faucets have built-up residue, and the smell can linger on your skin even after a good scrub.

4. Remove the fixture. If your faucet model has a cap, then remove the cap with your finger or a small screwdriver. Then unscrew the handles. Next, use an adjustable wrench to loosen the handle knob. Then remove the cartridge.

5. Assess the damage and replace broken parts. Depending on the model of your fixture, your leaking faucet may need to have the cartridge replaced. If that is the case, many professionals suggest upgrading to a ceramic cartridge as they have a longer use life. In other cases, sometimes only an O-ring, spring, or seat will need to be replaced. If you’re unclear about what needs to be replaced, call a professional plumber, who will usually have the parts on hand.

6. Reassemble the handle. After the damaged parts are replaced, put the faucet back together in the reverse order you disassembled it.

7. Turn the water supply back on. To test whether you’ve repaired the issue, turn on the faucet and turn it back off. If there aren’t any drips, you will have fixed the leak.

When you have a leaking faucet or other plumbing issues, swiftly taking matters into your hands or calling a professional plumber is imperative to avoid flooding or water damage. If you notice the leak already has led to water damage, a water restoration service in Boca Del Mar, FL, can help.

Recovering from Fire and Water Damage

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

A home fire can be incredibly devastating.

A home fire can be incredibly devastating. Even the fire is controlled early, the resulting damage can be extensive. Fire damage may be the result of actual flames, smoke, heat, or water. Firefighters use a lot of water to douse the flames. A fire hose puts out a powerful stream of water that can cause warping, structural damage, and mold growth. Water can even cause permanent damage to many material possessions. Soot and ashes can also set into furniture, drywall, and clothing if not handled carefully.

What To Do Immediately After a Fire

There are some things you can do on your own:

• Get clearance to enter your home
  
• Change the filter in your air conditioner
  
• Cover furniture to protect from further damage
  
• Document damage to send to your insurance company
  
• Get rid of any canned goods or food exposed to heat or smoke
  
• Wash all your pots, pans and flatware in hot, soapy water.
  
  

Other steps require a professional to be done correctly. For instance, don’t try to handle soot damage on your own. Soot is very hard to handle and should be left to a professional.

When To Bring in the Professionals

There are very specific methods and materials for properly handling fire damage. If you try to take care of the damage before getting a fire restoration professional involved, you risk complicating the process. Technicians are able to survey your home and identify all the damaged areas. Ventilation systems, drywall and furniture may be more damaged than you realize. Professionals have special equipment and chemicals to remove smoke, soot and muck.

They are also prepared to deal with water damage. It is imperative that water is removed immediately and the area affected dried out. If moisture is not managed appropriately, it can lead to mold growth.

If you are dealing with fire damage, take precautionary steps immediately upon reentry, but leave the heavy cleaning up to the professionals in Hamptons At Boca Raton, FL.

Why Did My Sewer Back Up?

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Rainwater backs up and you have a sewer issue on your hands.

What Would Cause A Sewer Backup?

If you have a sewer at your Highland Beach, FL business, you may be dealing with sewer backup that is disruptive to your operations. While this is going to be an emotional and stressful time for you, it is important to keep your cool as best you can and start forming a remediation plan. You need to take a couple of steps to remedy the situation:

1. Identify the most likely cause of the backup.
   
2. Figure out how you can clear the sewer.
   
   

If you are not sure why this particular backup occurred or what you should do to fix your circumstances, read on for some advice to guide you to a solution.

Storms Can Cause Backup

If your commercial building recently suffered through a storm, you have identified the most likely cause of the backup related to your sewer. Heavy storms lead to extremely large amounts of water going into sewers, which usually cannot handle such high volumes of liquid. As a result, the rainwater backs up and you have a sewer issue on your hands.

Sewage Cleanup and Restoration

A storm cleanup team can help you fix your sewer backup and clean up any messes caused by all of that water overwhelming the structure. These technicians can even handle matters related to the destructive and aggressive black water that may have formed, as professionals experienced in black water removal know how to find and eradicate it quickly and efficiently.

Prevent Future Sewage Issues

Your best defense against a future sewer backup disaster is keeping your sewer well maintained and cleared. You can also install different components to prevent backups from becoming a recurring issue. As in most cases, research is your friend when it comes to preventing storm-related damage. Since no approach is going to guarantee that your sewer will be able to handle another storm-related flood, remember to always be prepared for another misadventure so you can keep your commercial property in Highland Beach, FL, safe.

How To Keep Your Pets Safe During a Fire Emergency

5/23/2021 (Permalink)

We have extensive fire damage cleanup and restoration training to get your property back to pre-fire condition.

Pet Safety Tips In Case of a Fire

A fire emergency can occur unexpectedly, endangering your loved ones without warning. While it is important to plan for the safety of you and the inhabitants, it is just as crucial to consider the wellbeing of your pets. Whether you own a dog, cat or another animal companion, they have different needs compared to humans, so you must prepare accordingly. Keep in mind the following pet safety tips in case of a fire.

Create a Separate Disaster Kit

Just as humans need disaster kits to get through a fire, you will need to prepare one for pets. Some components are the same as a regular kit, while others are specific to pets.

• Bottled water
• Pet food
• Important documents (ownership, vaccination history, vet info)
• Animal first-aid supplies 
• Collar, harness and leash
  

The supplies may be different depending on the pets you own. However, these are some basic elements to include in the emergency box. 

Practice Evacuation Drills 

A proper evacuation procedure is important for a safe escape from a fire emergency. Keep your pets alive by involving them in the family's evacuation drills. Start by taking the pets with you during practice so they become familiar to the procedure. Later, train them to follow your directions when a fire emerges at home. Pet preparation helps reduce potential injuries and casualties in your Boca Raton, FL household, but never risk others' evacuation or safety to protect your pets. 

Help Firefighters Save Your Pets

There are situations where you will be unable to evacuate your pets. Instead, firefighters can safely step inside to rescue them. Make their job easier by taking preparations when leaving pets alone at home. Write down information like the number of pets, types and possible locations on window cling and attach them to a front window. Keep the pets by entrances where they are visible.
Creating a fire emergency plan for pets is just as important as preparing evacuation routes and contacting 911 and damage remediation specialists. These loyal creatures are vulnerable to fires and need your assistance.

Official Certification by the IICRC Is a Defining Attribute of a Professional Restoration Company

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Our employees have the right IICRC certifications so they can take the best care of your property.

In a world filled with misinformation and fake news, it can be a genuine challenge, and a real headache, to make an informed decision. This can exacerbate the natural sense of panic if your business has suffered a significant disaster, such as storm or fire damage. Fortunately, there is a credible institution dedicated to ensuring that restoration companies in Boca Raton, FL use trained technicians and abide by its rigorous protocols: the IICRC.

What Is the IICRC? 

The Independent Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification was founded in 1972 to prevent fraud and increase the quality of service provided by disaster restoration agencies. It offers a number of classes in restoration technology, including:

• Fire restoration
• Water restoration
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Applied structure drying.
  

The goal of the organization is to create uniform standards and develop easy-to-understand, industry-accepted language to make clear what damage has been done, specify the steps needed to prevent further harm to a property and ensure the customer knows exactly what he or she is getting. All certificate requirements are set by a board of directors with extensive experience in the industry. While certification is voluntary, most insurance experts strongly recommend working with an established restoration company with an active mitigation certificate. 

Where Can You Find IICRC-Certified Technicians?

SERVPRO is one of the few organizations approved to offer these classes, including continuing education credits. Most insurance companies consider SERVPRO to be their preferred vendor in all forms of physical disaster restoration. Key to this designation is that its franchises have strong connections to the local community, while having full access to national resources and top techniques for damage remediation.
If your business has had a disaster, acting fast will reduce further damage along with the time your business isn’t at full capacity. SERVPRO can help you understand the insurance process and immediately take the steps necessary to mitigate deterioration. Its emergency response team is thoroughly trained in the most cutting-edge techniques that can save money and reduce downtime.

How Does a Disaster Recovery Team Respond To Storms?

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

We are leaders in the storm and water damage industry.

How Does A Disaster Recovery Team Respond To Storms?

A disaster recovery team should swiftly arrive on location after a severe storm in Boca Raton, FL. These trained professionals can assess storm damage and take mitigation measures. Learn more about the stages of storm response.

Fast Deployment

A network of more than 1,700 locations enables SERVPRO to provide the fastest response to disasters. Several factors contribute toward a timely response:

• A centralized corporate structure
• Franchise locations in most regions
• Support from nearby locations

An independent mitigation company may not be able to keep up with the volume of calls after a disaster or severe storm. The SERVPRO business model is designed to sustain fast responses and a high quality of service.

Damage Mitigation

A disaster recovery team may need to perform various mitigation measures depending on the type of incident. The following measures may need to be taken as soon as possible:

• Documenting the full extent of damage
• Boarding up or tarping over structural damage
• Extracting standing water from a structure

The availability of trained professionals and specialized equipment is likely to make any storm response more successful. A corporation built on a franchise business model has all of the resources necessary to respond to large losses.

Successful Restoration

One of the best ways to ensure that mitigation and restoration will combine in a successful effort is to rely on the same company to provide both services. Separate mitigation and restoration companies will give clients and insurers more than one estimate and increase the possibility of miscommunication or scheduling difficulties. An all-in-one service can get the job done better and faster and make it easier to settle an insurance claim.

The best disaster recovery teams have fast response times and the equipment and expertise necessary to complete any job. In the event of storm or hurricane damage, a commercial property owner should contact a one-stop mitigation and restoration company in Boca Raton, FL.

3 Tips for Fire Emergency Preparedness

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

If a business fire does occur, employees need to evacuate.

Fire Preparation Steps

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there were approximately 110,900 nonresidential fires in 2019. This accounted for 9.4% of the year's total flame-related incidents. As an entrepreneur, you understand the importance of taking precautionary measures so you are ready if a business fire ever occurs. Adequate preparation can help minimize fire damage and fees for services such as a professional restoration and cleanup company from Hamptons At Boca Raton, FL.

1. Check Your Equipment
Part of fire preparation is making sure that you have the correct tools and that they function properly.

Fire extinguishers: There should be a fire extinguisher within 75 feet of any area likely to combust or catch fire, including kitchens or places where hazardous materials are stored. Each extinguisher should be no more than a year old and mounted properly in a space free of anything that might block access.
Hood systems: Remember that hood systems require biannual inspections.
Sprinklers: Keep sprinklers free of obstructions and do not use them as a rack to hang items.
Fire doors/shutters: All fire doors/shutters should undergo regular testing, and their pathways should be kept clear.

2. Take Care of the Exits
If a business fire does occur, employees need to evacuate. There should be easy-to-reach, clearly marked fire escapes and exits. Keep them unlocked and provide good lighting so people escaping can see the way and find them.

3. Perform Practice Drills
Your workers require training in the appropriate procedures. Make sure they know where to obtain fire extinguishers and locate exits and teach them to properly use them. Employees should also be aware of every aspect of your emergency fire plan. Regular drills can help them commit to memory the actions needed if a fire breaks out. This way, even in the heat of a panic-inducing situation, they can react instinctively rather than wasting time thinking of their next step.
Since a business fire can result in a great deal of trouble, it is wise to prepare for one in advance. Following safety measures helps mitigate the impact if one does take place.

3 Precautionary Steps for Preventing Roof Leaks

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Roof leak in Boca Del Mar, FL

Steps To Avoid A Leaking Roof

There are many things that can lead to a roof leak, from aged, malfunctioning shingles to wind damage from a natural disaster. The presence of one has the potential to cause a great deal of inconvenience and water damage that may require the services of a professional cleanup and restoration company in Boca Del Mar, FL, to deal with. Its existence may promote the growth and spread of mold, compromise structural integrity, create a fire hazard by allowing liquid to drip on live wires and more. There are some steps business owners can take to avoid a leaky roof in the first place.

1. Perform Regular Maintenance
Commercial properties require regular repairs and checkups. One way to head off a potential roof leak is to keep up with some necessary tasks:

• Clean out the gutters and storm drains
• Remove debris from the roof (it can cause water to pool, leading to damage)
• Replace damaged shingles
• Make sure sealant/caulking is working properly
  

2. Remove Potential Nature Hazards
Trees close to the structure need to be cut down and overhanging branches trimmed off. They have the potential to punch holes in, scratch, rip shingles off and otherwise harm the top of buildings, causing leaks. Getting rid of them is the best way to eliminate the risks they pose.

3. Inspect the Roof Closely
A regular inspection is also vital. The surface of the roof itself, its penetrations (pipes, drains and other components that go through it), the perimeter and the underside all need to be carefully evaluated, especially if severe weather is expected. Holes, cracks, mold, deterioration, rotting materials, wear and tear and missing or broken shingles are all things that can cause trouble and need to be dealt with.
A roof leak can be a pain to deal with. Implementing measures to keep one from occurring in the first place is a good idea and can help commercial property owners avoid a mess.

A Brief Guide To Keeping Sinks Free of Clogs

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

Clogged sinks demand immediate attention.

Ridding yourself of a clogged sink does not need to be difficult. Failure to deal with the issue, however, can result in a pipe break that triggers structural damage. In some cases, the consequences are bad enough that assistance from a residential water damage restoration service becomes necessary. What follows is a quick primer to help thwart this situation from happening to you.

Clog Avoidance

Prevent your sinks in Boca Raton, FL home from getting stopped up through proper usage. Good habits include:

• Using strainers to keep chunks of food from entering pipes
• Running cold water along with garbage disposals
• Placing non-organic materials and cooking grease in trash receptacles instead of down drains
  

Observation of these rules will significantly reduce the odds of experiencing a clogged pipe.

Clog Removal
Both electric and manual drain augers, also known as drain snakes, are available for rent or purchase. Insert your device into the drain and begin turning the handle attached to the drum that houses the coiled hose.
Keep turning until you are unable to do so any further. Note that the curve of your pipe’s elbow might require additional pressure. Just keep pushing until you get beyond the bend. Once you pass this section, going further should be comparatively easy.
Continue cranking even after you hit the clog. The rotation of the hose should push the blockage through or chop it up. If turning suddenly becomes effortless, the gunk that was plugging your sink has likely moved forward. Should rotating the handle further become impossible, remove the hose. The blockage has likely wrapped around the device and will likely come up with it.
Once you believe the clog to be gone, run your sink’s water at maximum pressure. Quickly draining liquid is a sure sign that your mission has been accomplished.
Clogged sinks demand immediate attention. Luckily, resolving these matters is easier than you may think. Either acquire a gadget that allows you to tackle the job yourself or obtain assistance from a professional plumber.

Why Insurance Agents and Their Clients Should Use SERVPRO's Claims Inventory System

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO created its own Claims Inventory System.

Top Reasons To Use This Service

Accuracy is paramount as you prepare each insurance claim. You need to double-check all the numbers and facts. You also must do research to ensure your details are reliable. With so much information available on the internet, the process can seem overwhelming.
That is why SERVPRO created its own Claims Inventory System. This system lets agents in Boca Raton, FL easily find the data they need. 

Data
An insurance agent can use the Claims Inventory System to research the response times and costs of other restoration projects. This information should help you quickly and accurately compare losses and estimate the expenses involved in your latest insurance claim. You can sort the numbers by:

• Region
• State
• County

Collaboration and Convenience
Insurance agents are not the only people with access to this database. The restoration professionals and adjusters can also utilize it to communicate with clients and each other. This speeds up the entire claims process, letting you move on to other parts of your job, and letting your clients get back to their businesses.
In fact, your clients themselves will also have remote access to the database. They should thus receive instant information about the status of each claim.
The system additionally features an estimate of the costs, photos of the loss and digital copies of important documents. Your clients should also receive a hard copy or email versions of their files for their records.
Business owners are likely to appreciate that they are being kept completely in the loop. They can even see how SERVPRO's performance compares to the standard set by the restoration industry.
As a preferred vendor of many insurance companies, SERVPRO offers more than just emergency cleanup services. The company's database provides accurate information that helps agents expedite each insurance claim. Speeding up the claims process should reduce the cost of the cleanup and make your clients happy.

5 Ways to Prevent Mold Build Up at Your Business

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your business.

Here Are Five Ways To Fight Mold Build Up At Your Business

You are primarily responsible for cleaning and maintenance at your place of business in Boca Raton, FL. You have a comprehensive schedule to clean all high-traffic areas, the outdoor space, and a system maintenance schedule that keeps everything running smoothly. One battle that you are constantly fighting is against mold. Mold spores are omnipresent so preventing them from finding an ideal location to grow is a full-time job.

1. Carpets
Carpets and rugs can provide ideal growing environments for mold. Rugs at entryways should be kept dry so that mold doesn't grow on or under them. Regular carpet cleaning also prevents mold growth. Vacuum often and clean behind large furniture. Consider professional steam cleaning a couple of times per year.

2. Dust
Mold can grow on dusty shelves and in forgotten corners of closets and storage spaces. Have cleaning supplies readily available for all staff so that they can clean their desks.

3. Leaks
If someone makes you aware of a leak, make maintenance a priority. Once you have identified the leak and repaired it, check for secondary damage. If a ceiling was leaking over a carpeted area, plan to do some deep carpet cleaning ASAP. If you can't identify the source of the leak, call a commercial building restoration service that can use special tools to check for leaks behind walls.

4. Landscaping
It's important to check on landscaping and rain gutters to make sure that water isn't being directed toward the building. Basements tend to be humid environments so extra water leaking in nearly guarantees mold problems. Clean gutters and properly oriented down spouts help to prevent flooding.

5. HVAC
In large buildings, the HVAC system gets a lot of use and is susceptible to mold growth. Stay alert to new condensation, dust buildup, or a mildew smell that could indicate mold growth.
In addition to regular cleaning and maintenance, deep-dive projects such as carpet cleaning, closet cleanouts, and HVAC inspections help to prevent mold growth at your business.

Storm Damage Can Lead to Mold: Take These 4 Steps To Avoid This Growth

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Performing flood cuts in a house in Boca Raton, FL

Storm Damage Can Lead To Mold

While fungus exists naturally in nature, it can wreak havoc on a home's structure. The spores, triggered by dampness, feed on organic material, eating away at drywall, flooring and ceilings. Left unattended, flooded zones not only create a musty, undesirable odor, but these polluted sections also lead to infested, deteriorated rooms. Thus, homeowners should be vigilant about warding off mold growth by quickly reacting to flood damage. The following four steps assist in reducing mold development and exposure.

1. Carefully Inspect the Moisture Damage
Flooding is tricky as a person's eyes see only part of the problem. The dampness actually exists far below the surface. Special equipment such as moisture readers should be used to examine the location. It's likely that more of the property has been harmed than at first believed. A water restoration company in Boca Raton, FL can perform a thorough assessment to avoid missing any contaminated spots.

2. Remove Saturated Porous Items
Absorbent things such carpet harbor the organisms easily, permitting rapid mold growth. It's extremely difficult to guarantee that cleaning will eradicate any concerns. To prevent unwanted development, tear out anything that is saturated. Personal items harmed and ruined by the fluid should also be tossed. This minimized spore numbers.

3. Complete a Flood Cut
The walls have dampness. To ensure mold removal is complete take out a portion of the drywall. This is often completed two to three feet above the measured exposure.

4. Run Dehumidifiers
Focus on maintaining a dry atmosphere. Dehumidifiers extract moisture from not just the air but also materials. Run them around the clock until readings indicate that the area is back in normal humidity range.
Flood damage, when left unattended or cleaned up improperly, can quickly lead to undesirable mold growth. Homeowners, though, can use certain measures to ward off the trouble. Rely on the knowledge of professionals, and concentrate on eliminating moisture damage.

4 Things Not To Do After a Flood

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded living room in Boca Raton, FL

Four Things Not To Do After A Flood

Water damage in your Boca Raton, FL home often occurs from a broken pipe, storm, or leaking roof. Since these types of disasters don’t happen often, many people don’t know how to handle them. To prevent substantial damage, here is a list of four things you should not do after a flood.

1. Don’t Wait To Take Action
One of the most important things to remember is not to delay action. Fast work is necessary when dealing with any type of water disaster. Moisture offers favorable circumstances for mold to grow; therefore, it is prudent to remove water as quickly as possible. Immediately following water damage, contact a water restoration specialist. Service companies are available 24/7 to help with emergency situations. Fast response is essential to limit damage and reduce repair costs.

2. Don’t Assume an Area is Undamaged
If you experience a broken pipe in a bathroom located in the basement, don’t assume that the water was contained completely in the bathroom. Water in home travels rapidly and easily spreads to surrounding areas. A thorough inspection of all areas is needed to develop an accurate cleaning plan.

3. Don’t Leave Furniture and Belongings in Place
While you’re waiting for professional help to arrive, don’t leave belongings in place. Prop up heavy furniture on wood blocks and move upholstery and rugs off the ground. Art pieces, books, magazines and other loose items should be removed from the area as well.

4. Don’t Use a Household Vacuum
It is never safe to use a household vacuum to remove water caused from flooding. If you don’t have a wet dry vacuum, the best action you can take is removing your belongings and propping up furniture until help arrives. A professional cleaning company will have the proper equipment and training to safely remove water from your home.
Water damage caused by a broken pipe or other disaster often causes individuals to panic. If you experience water damage in your home, remember to avoid doing these four things.

How Long Will It Take to Clean Up Mold in My Business?

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial mold growth in Boca Raton, FL

If you have found mold in your building in Boca Raton, FL, you may be wondering about mold removal and how long the remediation process will take. After all, you want your business running and back to normal as quickly as possible. Mold remediation usually takes an average of three to seven days, depending on the spread of the mold and amount of damage.

The Basics of Mold Growth

The idea of completely removing mold is somewhat of a fallacy, as this fungus is present everywhere:

• Mold grows indoors and outdoors.
• Microscopic mold spores float through the air and can enter buildings through windows, doors and HVAC systems.
• Spores can also get into buildings on the clothing of people who enter.

Mold can grow on nearly any surface, including wood, carpet, ceiling tiles, paint and insulation. It also thrives when moisture is present. Rooms with a humidity level of 45% or higher provide a favorable environment for black mold and other types. It also grows quickly after a flood or roof leak, spreading through a building within 48-72 hours.

The Mold Remediation Process
A professional mold remediation company that focuses on getting mold spores back to normal, natural levels can work with you to begin the mold removal and cleaning process.
The remediation company can inspect your property for signs of mold, using technology to find it in places not in plain view. The professionals will also search for hidden sources of water.
The next step is to contain the spread of mold. Heaters, air conditioners and fans should be turned off and physical barriers may be installed. In some cases, negative air chambers may be used along with air filtration equipment.
Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments can be used on surfaces to eliminate colonies of mold and prevent new ones from growing. Porous materials like carpet and ceiling tile may need to be removed and replaced if they are infested with growth.
While it might seem like mold removal is a job you can handle yourself, working with a mold remediation company can help you find any hidden sources and assist you in getting quickly back to business as usual.

Common Problems Associated With Commercial Restrooms

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial restroom in Boca Raton, FL

Common Problems Associated With Commercial Restrooms

For a company, a commercial restroom is a vital place in a building, whether the facilities are used by employees or customers. With its toilets, sinks, faucets and pipes, restrooms are the site of many problems. A toilet overflow, for example, occurs commonly enough, and introduces several complications:

• Water on the floor
• Inability to accommodate users
• Unsanitary conditions
• Image problems

The first order of business should be to clean up the water, and then to fix the problem. If the toilet flood results in the discharge of contaminated water, the cleanup should be conducted by a professional. The services of a local water remediation company in Boca Raton, FL, are often needed in these situations.

Possible Causes of a Toilet Overflow
A commercial restroom gets a lot of use, and it is prone to a few common problems. Users sometimes flush inappropriate materials down the toilet, resulting in clogs. This of course can cause water to overflow onto the restroom floor. Toilets that automatically flush sometimes get stuck on the flush mode, and the toilet just keeps flushing. Depending upon the model of toilet, to stop a toilet from repeated flushes can be fixed in just a few steps, or it can be a more involved process that is probably best handled by a plumber. A Toilet can also leak, either at its base or by running over the bowl.

Good Solutions to Commercial Restroom Issues
Many companies have skilled custodians on staff that are capable of handling routine restroom issues such as a toilet overflow. Other companies only have a basic cleaning crew on hand. Any significant water damage or any time contaminated water is present, a company should consider calling in a professional water mitigation team. Highly-trained technicians can safely handle contaminated water. They can also inspect the restroom to see if any structural damage to floors and walls have occurred. Technicians experienced with water damage can handle both common and unusual problems that impact commercial restrooms.

Tips To Reduce Space Heater Fires

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

A space heater can still be a useful addition to your home

Types Of Heaters To Buy And How To Use Them

If your home caught fire in Boca Raton, FL, how do you think it might happen? There is a good chance a burned space heater would start it. According to the NFPA, every year, space heaters cause around 25,000 house fires. That number might make you reconsider that cozy little heat blaster you use to warm up the bathroom in the mornings. As convenient as they may be, space heaters account for approximately 43% of all home-heating fires and 53% of all home-heating deaths. For this reason, it is important to put thought into the type of heaters you buy and how you use them.

What Kind of Space Heater Should I Buy?
If you want to avoid having a burned space heater, there are certain safety features you should consider. Make sure the heater you choose has:

• Official safety certification
• An automatic shutoff option
• Ground fault circuit interrupter plug
• Durable cord

What Should I Do (or Not Do)?
After you buy a heater with ideal safety features, how should you use it? For starters, make sure you place it flat on the floor. Do not put it on top of furniture. Next, look around. How close is the nearest water source? This is especially important if you like heating your bathroom. Always keep your heater away from water and at least 3 feet away from flammable goods such as curtains or your cloth sofa.
Additionally, it is never a good idea to leave a space heater unattended. Make sure to turn it off when you leave the house or go to sleep. If one does cause a fire in your home, seek out the help of fire damage restoration experts to assist with fire and smoke cleanup.
To reduce the risk of a burned space heater, take care with all these points. Although space heaters can be dangerous, they have much better safety features today than in the past. If you consider your options carefully and follow some simple safety guidelines, a space heater can still be a useful addition to your home.

Mold vs. Mildew: Everything You Need To Know

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Mold vs Mildew

Here Are Three Ways To Differentiate Between The Two

All homeowners in Boca Raton, FL know that they need to protect their property from mold damage. You can keep fungi out of your home in several ways, such as keeping your house clean, taking care of any water leaks or spills right away and calling a mold mitigation company as soon as you suspect a problem. But how do you know if you are dealing with mold or with its more common cousin, mildew? Here are three ways to differentiate between the two.

1. Check Out Color
One of the first things you may notice about the fungus in your home is its color. Mildew growth tends to be less visually striking, appearing on surfaces as grey or white patches. Mold growth can be many colors, including red or orange, but the type of mold damage found in residential homes is most often green or black.

2. Take a Look at Texture
The texture of the fungus can provide another clue to its identity. Mildew may appear to have more of a powdery, “dusted on” texture, while mold is often slimy, fuzzy, or wool-like. Combined with color, this can lead to a noticeable difference in the appearance of the two types of fungi.

3. Examine the Size of the Growth
Besides color and texture, you can also look at the size of the growth to help determine if it is mold or mildew. Mildew growth generally occurs in a small, distinct area on the surface of objects, while mold growth tends to cover a larger area.
Avoiding mold damage is a high priority for any homeowner. One of the most important steps to protecting your home is knowing exactly what it is you’re dealing with when you spot dark spots or fuzzy substances that weren't there before. Mold and mildew may seem similar, but a visual examination from a safe distance or an assessment from mold removal professionals can help you distinguish between the two.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Help

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

A good water heater is probably one of the most overlooked appliances in your home

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Help

A good water heater is probably one of the most overlooked appliances in your home. Multiple times a day you and your household members take it for granted that when you turn on the faucet, hot water will soon come your way. When it doesn't, then panic often ensues, especially if you are getting ready to head to work. Like all other manufactured units, water heaters require a little bit of attention now and then, and of course they eventually wear out. The following signs indicate trouble could be right around the corner:

• Excessive noise
• A decrease in water temperature
• An increase in time for water to heat
• A pool of water near the heater
  

The Importance of a Water Heater Flush
Over time, sediment often collects in the bottom of your water heater. This buildup can eat away at the lining of the unit, eventually causing it to corrode and then begin to leak. About once a year it makes good sense to flush the heater. This clears out sediments and can increase the longevity of the unit. The use of a deliming agent during the flush will accomplish two things: it will keep components cleaner and it will reduce the buildup of minerals in the water.

The Value of Responding to Water Damage
If your water heater fails completely, it can released dozens of gallons of water into your home. In addition to creating a mess, this water can also harm drywall and carpeting and create a breeding ground for mold. A local water mitigation franchise in Boca Raton, FL, can arrive on scene in a matter of hours. If the problem is relatively small, they can vacuum up the spill and dry out the room in less than a day. A larger spill could take a day or two to cleanup, but you can feel confident your home is in good hands with a reputable restoration company.

When Your Business Would Need Commercial Flood Insurance

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Flood insurance would be essential in these circumstances

A flooded building can cause extensive damage and even pose danger to you and your co-workers. Without the right insurance coverage, the cleanup efforts could also be costly and detrimental to your business. Some types of flooding are covered by your regular property insurance. However, there are cases where you would need supplemental flood insurance to repair the damage and replace ruined materials in the building.

What Property Insurance Will Cover

Having a reliable commercial insurance plan should give you peace of mind when a disaster hits. Your regular property coverage should take care of water damage in the following situations:

• Sudden, unexpected bursting of a pipe
• A defective appliance that leaks or ruptures
• Flooding due to burglary or vandalism
  

Coverage for Overflowing Waterways
If your building is located near a canal, river or other body of water, it's a good idea to purchase supplemental flood insurance. Property insurance will not cover water damage that occurs due to water getting into your building from this source. Flood coverage will pay for the cleanup from a professional flood mitigation company as well as the replacement of any building materials or other items.

Coverage for Sewer Problems
You also wouldn't have coverage in the event of a sewer backup, a broken sewer line or a toilet overflow that might cause flooding in the building. Luckily, flood coverage would help you clean up and rebuild if these issues occurred.

Coverage for Storm Issues
Heavy rains that bring water into your building from underground, through the foundation or other ways, can cause widespread damage to the building. You would need additional insurance to make a claim in these situations. If your building is in Boca Raton, FL where such weather is common, you should speak to your agent about getting this coverage.
Flood insurance would be essential in these circumstances. You can't rely on traditional coverage to come to the rescue in the wake of all types of flooding.

4 Steps To Clean Your Flooded Property

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy rains cause flooding in Boca del Mar, FL

Four Steps To Get You Started

Floods are often unexpected and can occur quickly, leaving you little time to prepare or protect your belongings. If you've experienced flooding in Boca Del Mar, FL, and are confused about how to clean up afterward, here are four steps to get you started.

1. Dry Wet Areas
Before you get to cleaning, dry the area as much as possible. If water lingers too long, you could have a serious mold problem. Standing water can pose a danger around electronics and damage building materials.
Once you're certain the area is safe, outward-facing fans can help with ventilation without blowing any debris around inside.

2. Use the Right Supplies
Cleaning water damage can involve a lot of materials. You'll potentially be working around mold and cleaning chemicals as well as anything unsanitary brought inside with the water. Disinfectant is crucial; just make sure you're not mixing cleaning supplies. You may also want to look into masks, goggles, gloves or other types of protection before entering the area.

3. Get Your Trash Can
Some materials that have been damaged by flooding can be saved so long as you wash, disinfect and dry them as soon as possible. For other items, it's best to toss them once you've documented the damage for your insurance agent.

4. Ask for Help
Flood damage can be immense, and you may not see the extent of the damage until you begin cleaning. This process often requires many specialized materials, and going about it incorrectly could mean you have hidden damage or mold to deal with later on. Depending on your experience and confidence level, you may be better off consulting a water damage restoration service that has experience with damage from floodwater.
If you've experienced flooding in your home, dealing with the damage can be overwhelming. So long as you're careful and work with an expert, you can start repairing the damage in a safe and effective way.

Important Things To Consider for Fire Damage Restoration

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial building fire in Hamptons At Boca Raton, FL

A fire at your commercial property will not only result in fire damage, but also destruction due to smoke and water from quenching the blaze. As a property owner in Hamptons At Boca Raton, FL, your tenants depend on you to attend to the needs of your building(s) and the various systems within. It’s important that you hire a professional fire restoration services provider to help assess the full damage and execute a cleanup plan that includes dry-cleaning and other types of content cleaning to get you back to pre-fire conditions. This interruption to operations can have a negative impact on your bottom line as well as that of your tenants, so you’ll want to clean up all damage as soon as possible.

Restoring Your Property

A professional provider of fire restoration services is best equipped to not only handle content cleaning, but to expedite cleanup. Reach out to such a provider to get started on the process:

Verify the degree of fire, water and smoke damage through complete inspection and testing.
Restrict further damage by sealing off and boarding up affected areas.
Use equipment to remove water and aid in drying out of rooms and surfaces.
Clean smoke and soot from items and surfaces using industry best practices.
Sanitize and disinfect items through dry-cleaning and other cleaning techniques.
Complete major and minor repairs or reconstruction to bring the property back to a pre-damage scenario.

The cleanup plan should also include content storage for items until the restoration is complete.

Hiring Experienced Professionals
You might be tempted to attempt cleanup and restoration yourself. This is not advisable as restoration often requires specialized methods such as dry-cleaning and major facility repairs that are best left to licensed professionals. It’s critical that all damage from fire, smoke and water be addressed fully by trained persons who not only have the necessary equipment but the knowledge and experience as well. You owe it to yourself and your tenants to have a safe and fully restored property.

Avoid These 3 Long-Term Complications of Wet Floor Damage

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

Wet floor damage in Highland Beach, FL

As a business owner in Highland Beach, FL, you are constantly planning and taking the important steps necessary to protect your investment. Changing seasons often present the demands of extreme heat and cold that may adversely affect your facility and create irreparable damage. When dropping temperatures cause a pipe burst, you need immediate action to ensure unaddressed damage doesn't create costly aftermath for your flooring.

Consider These Three Major Complications

1. Not All Wood Is Treated Equally
Wood flooring has the benefit and protection of being pressure-treated and flood-resistant which is a huge relief in the event of a spill or encounter with liquid. It does not, however, ensure that the untreated subfloor or structural wood has protection from more extreme levels of saturation. When these untreated surfaces encounter moisture, they may swell within 72 hours, causing nail popping, an outward drive of nails, and warping effects that make it difficult or often impossible for the sheathing to be held by nails.

2. Decay Comes To Stay
One of the more subtle effects is that the natural fibers of the wood floor can absorb water and start to rot. This adversely influences the physical integrity of the material and the building's overall structure. More disconcertingly, this may not present as immediate damage from your pipe burst. Sometimes such damage goes unnoticed for weeks, months or even years, until it is all but irreparable.

3. Mold Can Also Harm Your Building
Failing to promptly remove wet floors and materials within 24-48 hours promotes mold and fungi growth, leading to possible structural damage to your building as well as destroying items. Many of the materials when properly removed can be returned relatively undamaged and prevent long-term displacement of staff and interruption of business. Mold growth increases with the passage of time, so do not hesitate to address the damage with a professional water restoration company.
Having a pipe burst can be an unexpected and frustrating experience for commercial properties. Thankfully, staying educated and knowing when to act can minimize costs and complications, restoring peace of mind.

3 Ways Your Basement May Have Flooded

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

A flooded basement is a difficult issue that many homeowners must deal with at some point

Three Of The Most Common Flood Causes

Homeowners have a lot of problems that they need to tackle regarding property care, but none are quite as daunting as a basement flood. The last thing you want to do is wait out the flood to see whether it drains on its own. In reality, the best way to protect your property in West Boca Raton, FL, is to tackle the problem as soon as you discover it. In order to do that, you need to understand where the flooding is coming from. Here are three of the most common flood causes.

1. Inadequate or Poorly Installed Drainage System
When working properly, your drainage system is intended to drain water and divert it away from your home, thus preventing incidents like floods. When these systems aren't functioning properly, or were installed incorrectly, they tend to cause the very issues they were intended to prevent. Double check the downspouts in your home to see whether they're positioned too close to the property, or whether they're diverting water towards your house.

2. Blocked or Clogged Gutter System
Your house's gutters are supposed to collect rainwater or snowmelt that runs off of your roof and divert it away from the house. When these gutter systems become clogged, they collect water, eventually causing a basement flood. In extreme cases, blocked gutters can cause ponding on your roof. Prevent unnecessary water damage by cleaning out your gutter systems regularly.

3. Poor Property Location
If your house has been constructed at the bottom of a hill or slope, then water is naturally going to run towards the property during storms. Unfortunately, there's not much you can do to remedy this type of problem, aside from installing blockades or waiting for the elements to erode the slopes on their own.
A flooded basement is a difficult issue that many homeowners must deal with at some point. The key to preventing and remediating a basement flood is understanding the source of the issue. Contact flood remediation experts for more information, or for assistance dealing with home floods.

Your Mold Problem Will Not Take Care of Itself

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Mold is no problem for SERVPRO

Take Preventative Measures

Black mold is a formidable foe. It loves warm and moist areas and can grow on almost any surface in your home, including, but not limited to:

• Floors
  
• Ceilings
  
• Walls
  
• Carpets
  
• Drapes
  
  

Once a surface becomes wet or is exposed to an ongoing moisture problem, the mold spores that are always present in the air can take hold and begin to grow within 24-48 hours. The longer you wait to call your local Boca Raton, FL, mold cleanup specialists, the more difficult and expensive the mold remediation process will be.

Will the Mold Go Away on Its Own?
A common misconception is that if you take care of your moisture problem, the black mold will go away all by itself. Unfortunately, this is a dangerous myth. Even if you do everything right — stop the moisture, thoroughly dry off the surface, install a dehumidifier, and a humidity meter — the mold will never just disappear. It might stop spreading, which is why it's so important to take these initial mold cleanup steps, but the mold that is already present is there to stay until you get professional help. 

How Can You Prevent Mold Growth?
The most efficient and effective way to take care of mold is, of course, to stop it from growing in the first place. Since mold is attracted to moist environments, this means making sure your water lines are in good shape and taking care of leaks immediately. For good measure, purchase a dehumidifier and keep your heat or AC cranked up. 
When given free reign, black mold can turn into an overwhelming disaster that spreads throughout your entire home. To protect your house (and your wallet!), it is crucial to take preventative measures, spot mold, and moisture problems right away, and waste no time in seeking professional help. As tempting as it may be to believe, don't fall for the myth that the mold will take care of itself.

Is the Exterior of Your Commercial Property Ready for a Storm?

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for a Storm?

Storms can cause extensive damage to the exterior of a commercial property. Depending on the level of commercial insurance coverage held by the building owner, there may be limits on the external portions of the property that are protected. Review your coverage, schedule a building inspection, and perform exterior maintenance on a regular basis.

Five steps that will help owners prepare the exterior of a commercial property for a storm.

1. Choose exterior doors rated for high wind speeds.

Exterior damage quickly becomes interior damage if a door fails. Exterior doors should be tested to stand up to wind loads and the frames should be anchored. Check to make sure these doors have appropriate drainage, flashing, sealant, and tracks. Door failure rapidly raises internal pressure and can cause structural damage.

2. Clear drainage systems.

Functional drainage systems prevent water from pooling on the roof or around the foundation of a structure. Clear roof drains, downspouts, and gutters several times a year as part of an exterior maintenance routine.

3. Trim trees.

Removing dead or loose branches from nearby trees can limit the extent of storm damage.

4. Secure loose items that may blow away or cause damage.

Don't forget about antennas on the roof or potted plants and trash cans on the ground.

5. Anchor outside HVAC equipment.

These components should be securely installed on a concrete pad. Depending on the severity of a storm, you may want to use hurricane straps or shut off these systems and cover equipment with a secured tarp.

These five exterior maintenance and storm preparation steps can help owners limit the extent of damage to the exterior of a commercial structure. Keeping your building maintained can pay off during adverse weather events. If the exterior or interior of a commercial property becomes damaged during a storm, contact a restoration company located in Boca Raton, FL.

SERVPRO of South Palm Beach has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial storm damage and can respond quickly.  

4 Ways To Prepare Your Home for a Fire

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Install the correct number of smoke alarms for your home

Start With These Four Simple Steps

In the event of a fire, seconds matter. It is crucial that each household takes preventative measures, including a fire escape plan. There are a number of ways to develop a fire preparation plan for your household, but you can start with these four simple steps.

1. Inspect Your Kitchen
This is where most fires start. Keep your stove and oven clean, as forgotten food particles can spark fire. Similarly, make sure linens such as kitchen towels and curtains are far enough away from burners. It is also wise to never leave cooking food unattended.

2. Check Sources of Heat and Electricity
Second to kitchens, overlooked sources of heat and electricity pose the greatest threats of fire. Examples of potential fire-starters include:

• Damaged cords/wires
  
• Uncleaned air and dryer filters
  
• Unattended space heaters
  
• Improperly stored flammable materials
  
  

Additionally, be mindful of open flames such as candles and fireplaces. It is never a good idea to leave fires unattended. Make sure that all fires have burned out completely before retiring for the evening.

3. Install Smoke Alarms
One of the smartest steps in fire preparation is to install the correct number of smoke alarms for your home. In Mizner Park, FL, it is considered best practice to have at least one smoke alarm per house level. For additional fire safety, be sure to include smoke alarms in problematic or removed locations, such as the kitchen and the garage.

4. Prepare for Escape
Review exit plans for each room of your home on a regular basis, and make sure all members of the house know what to expect. You may also want to remind household members to “stop, drop and roll” and to meet at a designated location outside of the home in the event of a fire.
You can take steps toward fire preparation by being mindful of the risks around your home, but it’s always smart to have an escape plan. Should you ever find yourself the victim of a home fire, proceed with caution and consider bringing in help from fire restoration professionals to clean up and get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

4 Hidden Damages Storms Cause to Roofs

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

Strong winds and heavy rain can cause shingles to detach

4 Hidden Damages Storms Cause to Roofs

After a storm hits your commercial building in Whisper Walk, FL, it's important to contact a professional cleanup and restoration service. There are several issues professionals look for when assessing if a roof needs repairs — issues that an inexperienced eye can easily miss. For example, locating a roof leak requires a trained eye, and wind damage can appear minor on the surface. Here are four hidden damages that storms cause to shingled roofs.

1. Missing Shingles
Strong winds and heavy rain can cause shingles to detach. This leaves an opening in your roof. As shingles are the main protection from rainwater infiltrating your building and causing severe damage, it's important to have a professional survey your roof for missing shingles after a severe storm.

2. Damaged Protective Layers
The shingles of your roof are covered in a layer of a tar-like substance that assists in keeping water out of your building. When this layer is battered by storm debris such a loose branches or other objects, the covering can wear away and leave your building vulnerable to a roof leak.

3. A Building Alignment Shift
As repeated storms batter your building, the alignment of the structure can begin to shift. If you notice that windows are hard to open or doors are sticking, this may be the culprit. This is a serious issue that also affects the integrity of your roof.

4. Flashing Tears
Flashing is the sealant that covers gaps and cracks between joining sections of a roof. High winds can lift this protective sealant and cause it to tear. When the storm passes, these tears would not even be visible from the ground.
Storm damages such as a roof leak can quickly become a much bigger issue. It's essential that you call a professional storm cleanup team to inspect your roof so an insurance claim can be filed. Otherwise, as a commercial building owner, you risk losing more time and money the longer you wait. Don't wait; storm and wind damage are serious issues that can catch you unawares.

4 Tips for Storm Season Preparation

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips to Keep Your Building Safe and Dry Through Most Storms

If a natural disaster occurs in Mission Bay, FL, you may not be able to avoid significant damage to your commercial building. With the proper preparation, however, you can weather the average spring storm just fine. Follow these tips to keep your building safe and dry through most storms.

1. Direct Water Away From Building

You can minimize the risk of storm damage by redirecting the flow of floodwaters. If the storm brings a heavy rain, clear gutters and properly angled downspouts can ensure that it stays away from your building's foundation. If you notice water pooling near your building after a storm, have your landscapers rebuild the slope of the area to angle away rather than toward the base of the structure.

2. Install Sump Pumps

Having sump pumps in your basement can curtail a flooding problem before it gets out of hand. If a storm or a pipe break floods your basement, the sump pump activates and starts to pump the water out before it has a chance to cause extensive damage that only water restoration experts can fix. It's a good idea to hook it up to your backup generator, just in case the storm causes a power outage.

3. Block Flood Waters

It's a good idea to have sandbags on hand during spring storm season. Sandbags can be used around the perimeter of your building and in front of doors and windows to provide an extra line of defense against encroaching water.

4. Watch the Weather

Awareness can be a powerful prevention measure during storm season. Keep an eye on the local weather reports, particularly on days when conditions are likely to produce more than just a light shower. Knowing that the storm is coming in advance gives you more time to activate your plans.
Knowing how to protect your building can save you a lot of time and money. Damage from a spring storm can be avoided if you take the proper precautions.

Securing Commercial Property After a Fire

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

Protect Your Property From Further Damage

After a fire at your Boca, FL, commercial property, you may feel overwhelmed with getting the insurance straightened out, repairing the property and handling everything else you have to do. A security fence or other safety measures may be the last thing on your mind. However, it is important to protect your property from further damage, which can take many forms.

1. Prevention of a Second Fire

If the fire department was called to the scene, the firefighters will make sure the fire is completely out. If you put the fire out yourself, it is up to you to ensure the fire is fully extinguished. Make sure to check for any lingering flames or still-smoldering embers, as these could quickly turn into a full-blown blaze. If an appliance is to blame for the fire, make sure to turn it off. In the case of an electrical fire, be sure to turn off the electricity until an electrician does an inspection and repairs any faulty wiring.

2. Protection From Unwanted Visitors

Unfortunately, some people consider fire-damaged buildings to be ideal targets for burglary. Your security system may have been damaged in the fire, and vandals are likely able to cut through tarps and plywood. Luckily, a security fence can add an additional layer of protection. Not only can a fence help prevent burglaries, it also keeps out curious lookie-loos who may injure themselves on your property and hold you liable.

3. Protection Against Mother Nature

Make sure to board up or tarp over any holes in the structure, including windows that the fire department may have broken in order to release smoke. Doing so prevents rainwater, snow and wildlife from further harming your building and its contents.

The first step of the fire restoration process is preventing further damage. A certified restoration team can determine if you need tarps, plywood, a security fence or some combination of these and other protective measures to keep your building safe from after-fire dangers.

How To Spot Water Damage and Prevent Mold Growth

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

Mold and water damage in a commercial building in Boca, FL

How To Treat Water-Related Damages

A commercial building exposed to excessive water is highly susceptible to mold growth. Severe storms, floods, and leaking appliances are just a few examples of how water can build up and lead to much larger issues if it is ignored. Mold can begin to spread within 48 hours if it is not properly detected and contained. It is important to know how to treat water-related damages and safely remove mold before it grows into a bigger problem.

How To Treat Water Damage
Areas exposed to excess water and warm temperatures can create the perfect environment for mold growth. Water-related damage often occurs during severe weather conditions or due to high humidity. Water can also cause problems when it pools due to a leaking faucet or air conditioning unit.

If you discover an area damaged by water, you should:

• Shut off the water source causing the damage
• Immediately dry the affected area
• Monitor the space for signs of mold
  
  

Always inspect the vulnerable areas for excess water after a big storm, and maintain appliances by routinely checking for leaks. Seek professional help for drying any material or property that remains waterlogged.

How To Check for Signs of Mold
If moisture remains in an area long enough, signs of mold may appear. Although it is sometimes difficult to detect, there are a few clear indicators that mold may be present at your Boca, FL, property:

• Musty odors
• Discolored spots on walls and ceilings
• Prolonged and unexpected humidity
• Weak spots, such as in drywall or ceiling tiles
• Bulging spots
  
  

If you discover mold growth, make sure to avoid the affected area until it has been properly restored. Mold left untreated can cause long-term damage to buildings as well as furniture and fabrics. For any mold or water damage, contact a professional water removal and mold remediation expert. Mold cleanup in particular requires a professional to ensure safety and the complete removal of any damage, danger or odor.

Lower Your Business Interruption Insurance Loss After Flooding

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

Business interruption insurance will help you cover the costs of your business being closed

Steps For a Quick Recovery

You want to get back on your feet as soon as possible after flooding has occurred. Business interruption insurance will help you cover the costs of your business being closed, but it is important to take care of large water damage as soon as possible.

1. Have an expert on hand. It is tough to know the full extent of water damage without consulting an expert. Consider outlining in your business plan a trusted expert you know you can call in case of emergency to make a full survey of damages.

2. Determine the costs of recovery. The goal is to lower your losses after your insurance pays out. Getting a clear picture of the costs involved will allow you to make a plan and greatly speed up the recovery process.

3. Get a professional to fix major issues. In the event of a major issue like a broken pipe, put your trust in a trained professional to fix it. Cutting corners will only hurt you in the long run when more issues arise.

4. Know what is necessary to fix before resuming business. You are the expert on your business, so you need to know what is necessary before business can resume. Make sure clear recovery goals are defined and met before opening again.
Water damage can be difficult to deal with, but if you tackle the problem head-on with a plan you can reopen your business quickly and minimize your losses.

Why You Should Secure Your Property During Fire Restoration

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Board up services after fire damage in Highland Beach, FL

If a fire occurs at your commercial property in Highland Beach, FL, you may wonder how soon it will be before it's back to normal. After you arrange for a fire damage assessment, the next step is to install a security fence. Even if the building’s walls are still secure, there may be holes in the roof or windows that leave the property vulnerable to theft, animal intruders or weather. Here are a few tips to help you navigate this process and save yourself further headaches.

Responsibilities of Each Party

Your emergency restoration specialist will board up windows or place a tarp on the roof (if needed). But that may not be enough to deter vandalism or break-ins. It’s your responsibility to call your insurance company. Here are some helpful things to talk about:

• The specifics of the event
  
• How to send over documentation
  
• What else you should do before leaving the scene
  
• Whether your coverage includes a security fence
  
  

It’s important to note that your insurance company may not reimburse expenses for services hired without prior approval. Many companies may also deny coverage of damage occurring on an unsecured site after the initial event. By taking your insurance agent’s advice, you will prevent any surprises on your bill.

Protection From Further Loss
Another reason to secure the building is to protect any items left inside. For instance, if the fire officer deems the property unsafe, you won’t be able to retrieve important things like your identification, cash from a till, or other valuable inventory. In this case, you must protect the building until it’s safe to enter. Installing a solid perimeter is necessary to avoid additional loss and destruction.
Restoring a commercial property after a fire takes a bit more than you may have realized. With the proper help, you'll have a smoother experience. Now that you know the benefits of installing a security fence, you can rest assured that your building will be safe until you’re back to business as usual.

How To Clean Your Moldy Washing Machine

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Does your washing machine stink? There may be mold growth in the drain.

Your washing machine is designed to clean your clothes and keep them smelling fresh. What happens when your clothes not only stop smelling fresh out the wash but also take on an odor? If the laundry room in your home in Boca, FL, smells musty and damp, that unpleasant smell is most likely caused by mold.

Simple Steps To Clean Your Machine

Before worrying about replacing the expensive appliance, consider simply cleaning the machine to get rid of the nasty mold smell. With a few basic ingredients found in most homes, you can have your machine smelling better in no time:

• Empty your machine.
  
• Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/4 cup of vinegar.
  
• Add that mixture to the machine in place of detergent.
  
• Add 2 cups of vinegar to the drum of the machine.
  
• Run an empty wash cycle on high heat without any dirty laundry.
  
  

One wash cycle with this mixture should break down the mold and eliminate the musty smell from your washing machine.
If it still smells, look for any visible mold within the machine. If you are able to easily see mold, try scrubbing it directly with an equal mixture of vinegar and water using the scrubber side of a kitchen sponge. After a good scrubbing, try repeating the five steps above.

What To Do If The Smell Persists Even After Cleaning
If you’ve done your best to clean your machine and still find the mold smell to be a problem, your machine may have mold that is lingering in places you cannot see or reach. When this happens, it is likely time to call a mold remediation specialist to identify and solve the problem.
You wash your clothes with the expectation that they will come out looking and smelling better than when they went in. You depend on your washing machine to deliver day after day, but mold doesn't care about your wardrobe. It grows and spreads, so it's best to address the problem right away.

What to Do After Flooding

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Water cleanup services in Mission Bay, FL

Water Cleanup Process

Flooding, whether from plumbing, weather or other causes, can wreak havoc on your Mission Bay, FL, home. Fortunately, acting quickly can mitigate further damage. The following steps outline the water cleanup process.

1. Assess the damage. When dealing with water damage, first take stock of the damage. Make sure it is safe to return to the property. You may need to call an electrician to turn off the power. Contact your insurance agent and follow any specific instructions given for documenting the damage. If flood damage occurred over a large area, the company may be busy and you may not have time to wait for an adjuster to come to your home. Be sure to take detailed photo or video evidence to help the company process your claim.

2. Remove standing water. Mold growth can begin within 24 hours, so it is important to dry out the property as soon as possible. Remove standing water using pumps or specialized vacuums. You can scoop out the water using buckets if you need to.

3. Dry remaining water. After the standing water has been removed, there will still be moisture within porous items. Dry these out using dehumidifiers and fans. If the humidity outdoors is low enough, you can open the windows and doors to increase airflow.

4. Clean affected areas. Flooding often results in bacterial contamination. The source of the water and the item being cleaned will determine the best cleaner for you to use. Anything that cannot be fully cleaned and dried should be thrown away.

5. Repair and replace damaged items. Some repairs you may be able to do yourself. Delicate items like antiques and electronics may need to be professionally restored.
Cleaning up flood damage can be overwhelming. Fortunately, if your home experiences flooding, an experienced restoration company can help you get your home back to normal quickly and safely.

What to Know About Pretesting

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

The process of pretesting is done before the restoration begins in order to assess the damage and create a plan for restoration.

What to Know About Pretesting

After a fire or flood at your Hamptons At Boca Raton, FL, business you may see the local damage restoration service working on the property conduct a phase called pretesting before they begin any work. This can be an important step to the restoration process. Here’s what you may want to know.

1. What it is

This is the term used for the phase of the restoration in which the professionals inspect the property for damage type and severity, and then formulate a plan for restoration. Starting out in this manner allows them to find all the affected areas and items, and account for any potentially unseen damage as well. This also means they have the opportunity to collect any potentially necessary equipment or materials to do the job before the repairs begin.

2. Why They Conduct the Testing

The reason pretesting is used is because it allows the professionals to work on the space to know relevant information beforehand. This way they are not surprised by unexpected damages. The pretest stage may also help the insurance agent working on your claim as they will have what the need to correctly document any damages at the start.

3. How it May Benefit You

In addition to helping to speed up your insurance claim by getting the necessary information to your agent early on, the process of inspecting the area first can benefit you in a few ways. Knowing early what will need to be repaired can help the restoration tea create a streamlined repair schedule. This means your business property may be fixed sooner than otherwise expected. This can also allow them to mitigate future issues which could save you money long term.

The process of pretesting is done before the restoration begins in order to assess the damage and create a plan for restoration. This allows them to make plans for any damage they may find before the work begins, and then conduct the work is a safe and efficient manner. Doing so may not only cut down on the repair time but save you money as well.

How To Handle a Flooded Toilet

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

A flooded toilet is a hassle, especially if the spill is a lot more than you are able to deal with

Try These Steps To Stop The Flooding

Toilet overflows are always nauseating and stressful to handle. Your toilet may have overflowed due to a clogged drain, congested septic tank, or even sewer damage. Whatever the reason, it’s vital that you clean every affected area and figure out the cause of the incident. If your toilet has overflowed, try these steps to stop the flooding, get rid of the mess, and fix your plumbing.

1. Dry and Disinfect the Flooded Areas
If only a small amount of water has spilled onto your floor, use towels to dry the wet areas. If a larger portion of your floor has been flooded, use a wet/dry vacuum. Afterward, mop your floor with soap and hot water. Then, go back over it with bleach.

2. Investigate the Cause of the Overflow
If your toilet is clogged, use a plunger to loosen the clog. If you do not have a toilet plunger, you can try a sink plunger. There may also be something blocking the drain. If this is the case, put on some gloves and reach into the toilet to remove it if you can.

3. Determine if Your Toilet Needs Professional Repair
If your water is heavily polluted and it’s impossible even to stop the flooding, then your problem is most likely sewer damage. This occurs when there is damage to the sewer line connected to your home. It is important to act quickly in a situation like this because the contaminated water can cause mold to grow inside your floors and walls and create a permanent odor. It’s best to contact a water damage restoration company to ensure everything is repaired and disinfected.
A flooded toilet is a hassle, especially if the spill is a lot more than you are able to deal with. Finding out the root of the issue can be even more frustrating when you’re dealing with an issue such as sewer damage. Calling a professional sewage company in West Boca Raton, FL could be the key to ensuring your bathroom is clean and returning your plumbing to normal.

Make a Family Fire Escape Plan

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Your emergency escape plan must include two escape routes from each room of the home

Fire spreads quickly through homes, moving faster than ever because of the materials used to build and furnish homes. Your safety and that of your family depends on three things:

1. A straightforward fire escape plan
   
2. Advance warning from alarms
   
3. Regular practices
   
   

Remember that according to the Red Cross and other experts, you have as little as one or two minutes to get everyone out of the home, so preparation is crucial.

Fire Evacuation Plan

Your fire escape plan should include installing the right number of smoke alarms. There should be one in each bedroom, one in the hall outside of bedrooms, and at least one on each level of the home. Next, you need to teach your children what the alarms mean and how to respond when they hear the alarms. Your emergency escape plan must include two escape routes from each room of the home. Finally, establish a meeting spot across the street or at a similar location and make sure that family members know how to contact each other just in case you become separated.

Fire and Smoke Alarms
There are a few different types of alarms, some that sense rapid temperature changes and some that respond to smoke. For the best results, install both types of alarms. (Some hybrid devices are available as well.) Did you know that many people don't wake up to the piercing shrieks? Because of this, you should do some practice runs at night as well as during the day.

Practice Evacuation Routes
At least twice a year, you should practice escaping in the event of a fire, and you may need to practice more often at first. Press the button on your alarm for at least one of your tests. Teach family members to yell "fire," and include the pets in your practice efforts. Members of the family should know the "stop, drop, and roll" method of putting out fires on their clothing.
Never let family members re-enter you Boca Del Mar, FL, home during a fire. Wait for firefighters and fire and smoke damage professionals to complete their work and declare that the home is safe for re-entry.

Securing Your Building Post-Fire

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Is your Boca Raton commercial property suffering after a fire? If you are planning on seeking help from a local fire damage restoration company, you are already on the right track. But you also need to keep your building safe in the meantime. Follow these three steps to make sure looting does not affect your business in the aftermath of a commercial fire.

1. Identify and Secure Open Spaces

Survey your building very carefully when beginning your fire cleanup efforts. Ensure that all windows, doors and other open spaces are securely locked. Next, make sure that you purchase some sturdy boards that will be sufficiently protective for the type of opening that you are securing. The length of time you expect the boards to be in place should also influence what type of covering you buy.

2. Research Further Options

While waiting to repair fire damage to your building, you may want to invest in some fencing for added security. This really depends on whether or not you feel that your building is in an area prone to heavy looting, as well as the amount of time you expect your business to be shut down for.

3. Consider Advanced Security Options

If you feel that your company’s geographical area is highly unsafe or expect you will be closed for a very long time, security services or a high-tech alarm may be the way to go. These options allow your building to be secured when you are not physically available to keep a close watch.

Don’t Get Intimidated

Fire damage is stressful enough without worrying about highly customizable security options. You need to focus on fixing any destruction first and foremost, so if you think complicated security measures are out of the question logistically or financially, stick with basic, reliable boards that will keep your Boca Raton business protected not only from criminal activity, but also the unpredictable natural elements.

Taking Care of Your Belongings After Water Damage

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in Mizner Park, FL

Taking Care of Your Belongings After Water Damage

Any type of damage from water is devastating regardless of how much property is involved. Electronic damage can be particularly expensive. As the owner of a Mizner Park, FL, business, it’s imperative that you understand what needs to be done in any type of water damage situation. There are professional water restoration technicians that specialize in water cleanup. Your first step as a business owner should be to have an emergency contact. After that, you’ll be able to utilize their help in the following areas.

1. Electronics
Electronics are especially vulnerable to damage from water. If your company has time to prepare for an event, such as a storm or flood, preventative steps include unplugging all electronic devices. This will help you avoid water that is electronically charged. If you don’t have time to unplug computers and appliances beforehand, it’s best to leave them alone. Flooded electronics need to be handled by a professional to ensure safe and proper restoration. A professional will act quickly to clean the exterior to stop further damage. Afterward, a thorough inspection will be done by a qualified electronics technician.

2. Furniture
There are specific steps to effectively and safely clean your business once it’s been involved in a flood. In addition to flooded electronics, large furniture items including cubicles, tables, and desks make cleaning difficult. Fortunately, a professional restoration company offers move-out services. To make the cleaning process faster and more effective, it’s helpful to move large items out of the building. This also prevents further damage to your belongings by taking them off-site.

3. Documents and Photographs
A professional restoration company is Here to Help. Flooded electronics and furniture are costly but documents and photographs can be even more devastating due to their special nature. Professionals can use several techniques to restore your documents and photographs.
As a business owner, it’s important to be prepared for any type of water damage, including electronic damage. Have the contact information for a restoration company in the event of an emergency.

Cleaning Sewage Backup in a Bathtub

5/2/2020 (Permalink)

Sewer backup in a Whisper Walk, FL bathroom

Let’s face it: Sewer backup into your home is just about the most disgusting thing that can happen. Bathtub backup is a close second.
Unfortunately, when you have backed-up bathtub, it often doesn’t stay in the bathtub. It overflows and spreads. Read on to discover what steps can you take when this happens, what can you clean by yourself, and when should you call water damage experts in Whisper Walk, FL.

Steps To Take On Your Own

Regardless of whether or not you decide to enlist professional help, there are a few things you can do as soon as the backup happens:

• Get your family and pets out of the house.
  
• Move any items that are in danger of contamination outside of the sewer backup danger zone.
  
• Call your utility companies to turn off your water, electricity, and gas.
  
• Open windows as soon as possible to try to dry the area; mold growth can start as soon as 24 hours after flooding.
  
• Close doors to restrict the contamination, if possible.
  
• Throw away any items that have already been contaminated.
  
• Check with your insurance to see what coverage you have.
  
  

When To Call an Expert
It can be difficult to clean a backed-up sewer or bathtub on your own in a safe and effective manner. An expert in emergency restoration services should be called to do the following:

• Remove the standing sewer water
  
• Dispose of any debris that remains after the water has been removed
  
• Remove any carpet or flooring that has been contaminated
  
• Wash the walls and floors with disinfectant
  
• Inspect your home for mold
  
  

It is especially important to call an expert if the backed-up mess has been sitting in your home for 24 hours or more, or for an unknown amount of time. The longer it sits, the more dangerous it becomes, and the more damage it can do to your home.
Both time and safety are of the essence after a sewer backup. Act quickly to salvage what you can, and don't hesitate to enlist the help of trained technicians.

The Value of Business Interruption Insurance

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

Reducing the time of business interruption is in everyone's best interest

Business interruption for your company in Mission Bay, FL, puts years of hard work in jeopardy. Suddenly being unable to sell products or services not only causes extreme stress but it can also quickly deplete any financial reserves you have set aside. A regular commercial insurance policy will help you cope with the expenses of a business fire, but it will not cover lost revenue. A serious fire could put you out of commission for days, weeks, or even longer. Because of these factors, it's worth looking into a policy that protects you in case you have to close your business for a period of time.

The Benefits of Good Insurance

A policy that covers expenses due to a business interruption can be a lifesaver. Here are some features of this type of coverage:

• Provides replacement of lost revenue for a period of time
  
• Is added to your regular commercial policy
  
• Provides for covered perils such as fires and storms
  
• Pays out until the end of the interruption as determined by the policy
  
• Covers fixed costs of operations and incurred costs due to the disaster
  
  

To learn more about this type of insurance, contact your insurance agent. This coverage can allow you to meet payroll, cover loan payments, and survive a fire.

The Benefits of a Fast Cleanup
When a fire strikes your company, you want to get back in business again as quickly as possible. A local fire remediation company can be at your property within hours of the fire and will work to make the fire cleaning process as fast as possible. Powerful equipment and trained technicians can repair the damage, remove standing water, and get rid of the mess and odors associated with a fire. Reducing the time of business interruption is in everyone's best interest. A quick recovery allows your company to get the revenue stream flowing again.

Thunderstorms Are a Significant Threat for Businesses

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Thunderstorm in Boca, FL

When a thunderstorm blows through, there’s a chance it may turn severe. Devasting hail, damaging winds, and even tornadoes are produced by severe storms, and even thunderstorms that don’t turn severe can have deadly consequences. Almost every year, thunderstorms in Boca, FL, as well as a rain storm without lightning, will damage commercial buildings to some degree, and, at times, can obliterate a commercial operation.

Thunderstorms Have 3 Main Threats to Persons and Property

While tornadoes get most of the attention, they aren’t the main concern with most thunderstorms. A severe thunderstorm can produce

• Damaging winds
  
• Deadly lightning
  
• Flood damage
  
  

In fact, floods are the leading cause of storm deaths in the United States, with an average of around 100 deaths per year. Lightning is also a big threat, with an average of 51 deaths per year in the U.S. However, recent attempts at educating the public about the dangers of lightning have reduced it to only 27 deaths per year in the last decade.
For a thunderstorm to be considered severe, it must either produce hail greater than 1 inch in diameter, winds exceeding 58 miles per hour or a tornado. The single greatest immediate threat to commercial properties during thunderstorms is typically high winds. Rain damage, however, is the most important long-term threat, since severe thunderstorms are much rarer than a heavy rain.

Preventing Storm Damage to Your Business

Probably the best way to avoid damage to your business is to take some simple precautions. Make sure that trees near your building are properly trimmed and that nothing obvious is loose on the roof. Lightning rods can help reduce the risk of fires and employees being shocked as long as the rods are properly grounded. During a lightning storm or high winds, keep employees and customers away from windows.
If a rain storm or winds have damaged your business in Boca, FL, call a top local storm cleanup company immediately so that they can tarp and board the damaged areas. They can then inspect for hidden damage and begin the restoration process.

Mold Remediation in Your Boca Raton Home or Business?

4/11/2020 (Permalink)

Call us if you find mold on your property

SERVPRO of South Palm Beach offers mold remediation and restoration; we have the training, equipment and expertise to better assist you. 

It is preferred that you have an Industrial Hygienist protocol (mold test) done before the work begins?

This is a process where air sampling and affected areas are tested to provide a detailed remediation and restoration protocol for SERVPRO of South Palm Beach to follow. There is also a post-test that will take place once we are finished to confirm clearance. 

Every time our team handles a mold job, we are required to wear the appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) which includes items such as coveralls and respirators. 

SERVPRO of South Palm Beach will make sure to keep anything deemed salvageable; we go above and beyond to ensure restoration before removal.  Unfortunately, in most situations there is some tear out involved to remove affected areas such as drywall, flooring, and/or furniture.

During the mold remediation process a HEPA vacuum is used, HEPA filters are designed to capture particles as small as mold spores and to ensure that they do not get reintroduced. Our mold experts use “negative air” containment, which is created by positioning negative air machines to introduce clean air into the affected area and push contaminated air outside the home.

You want to consider getting your HVAC cleaned as well, the mold spores can collect there and be dispersed throughout the home.

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. If you have any questions, give SERVPRO of South Palm Beach a call at 561-391-3366.

SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team, Ready for whatever happens.®

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

We're here to help

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team

When a storm or disaster strikes, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team® is poised and “Ready for whatever happens.” With a network of nearly 1,700 Franchises, the SERVPRO® System strives to be faster to any size disaster. Strategically located throughout the United States, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team®, is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and highest flood waters. Providing experience, additional manpower, equipment and other resources, the Disaster Recovery Team® assists your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team® has responded to hundreds of disaster events. In the aftermath of a disaster, there is only one objective, to help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

2015 Siberian Express: Record sub- zero temperatures caused major problems for a large portion of the country stretching from Florida to Maine. The Midwest also experienced record breaking low temperatures resulting in frozen pipes and ice dams causing major problems for residents. The Storm Team dispatched a total of 257 crews from 108 Franchises to assist local SERVPRO® Franchises completing nearly 2000 jobs.

2014 Mid-Atlantic Flooding: Rainfall rates up to 2” per hour caused major flash flooding stretching from Northeast Ohio all the way up to Portland, Maine. Eastern Michigan and Baltimore, Maryland were also impacted creating over 1,381 jobs for the Storm team to produce. A total of 82 SERVPRO® Franchises and 173 crews mitigated over $4.3 million in damages while assisting the local Franchises.

2014 Polar Vortex: Record low temperatures caused by a break in the North Pole’s polar vortex resulted in an unprecedented freezing event, spanning from east of the Rocky Mountains to as far south as Central Florida, effecting all or part of 39 states and 70% of the SERVPRO® Franchise System.

2013 Colorado Floods: Heavy rainfall, with amounts up to 17 inches in some areas, resulted in widespread flooding in Fort Collins, Boulder and surrounding Colorado mountain communities. The Disaster Recovery Team® responded with 109 crews from 48 Franchises to assist the local SERVPRO® Franchises in the emergency response.

2013 Alberta, Canada Floods: Heavy rainfall triggered flooding affecting more than 120,000 residents, and ultimately, the costliest disaster in Canadian history with damages estimated at C$5 billion, with C$1.7 billion in insurance damages.

2012 Hurricane Sandy: Affecting more than 20 states, Sandy left widespread damage and flooding from Florida stretching the entire eastern seaboard to Maine. The Disaster Recovery Team® placed nearly 1000 crews in affected areas, representing over 300 SERVPRO® Franchises from across the country. Teams traveled from as far as Arizona, California, Oregon and Washington.

3 Signs of Mold Growth in Your Home

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth in a bathroom in Boca, FL

3 Signs of Mold Growth in Your Home

If you have recently experienced water damage in your Boca, FL, home or have a higher level of humidity than usual, then you might have seen some signs of mold growth in your house. If this is the case, then you may need to have a mold inspection done. If you notice any of the following, you likely have this fungus in your home.

1. Discoloration

When you think of fungal growth, the first thing that pops into your head might be black mold. However, this is not the only color that mold comes in. There are a variety of species that range in hue from green to orange to black, along with many others. If there are discolored areas on walls, tiles or flooring, particular in round patterns, these are likely mold colonies.

2. Texture

Another easy way to spot mold is the texture. Many varieties of house mold have a fuzzy appearance and texture. Others may be wet and slimy, and some have a string-like appearance. You might also find mildew, another type of fungus, in your house. This will be powdery or chalky.

3. Odor

In some cases, you might smell a mold growth before you see one. If you notice an unusual or musty odor but are unable to locate the source, then a mold inspection should be done as soon as possible. The reason that this occurs is that mold sometimes grows in hidden locations. From inside air conditioners to beneath floors or behind walls, no location is out of bounds for this fungus.
If you think that there might be mold growing in your house, then you should have a mold inspection done by a mold damage remediation company. Not only will these professionals be able to locate mold in hidden areas, but they can also do the work needed to remove it. They will perform cleanup and any necessary repairs.

Protecting Your Business During Thunderstorms

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Regularly trim trees

Learn How To Take Precautions For High Winds And Thunderstorms

Severe weather can strike when you least expect it, but don't be caught unprepared. As a business owner in Mission Bay, FL, it is up to you to protect your employees and your property. Even when a severe rain storm comes along abruptly, you can take steps to keep your business safe. Use this information to learn how to take precautions for high winds and thunderstorms.

• Prepare as much as possible before a storm hits.
  
• Keep your team safe during a storm.
  
• Bounce back after severe weather hits.
  
  

Preparing Your Business
There are measures you can take to prepare your business well before a storm hits. Routine inspections of your building and grounds can help you find and address any potential issues that may lead to leaks and damage during a storm. Keep your property up to code and well-maintained to limit the impacts of severe weather. You should keep landscaping in good order and regularly trim trees that pose a risk to your structures. You can buy surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system to protect your electronic devices. An intense rain storm can lead to a power outage, so have an emergency preparedness kit on-site.

Protecting Employees
During inclement weather, it is important to use the safety practices you have developed to keep yourself and your employees safe. You should choose a safe place in your building for team members to gather during a thunderstorm. Pick a place that is away from skylights, windows, and glass doors as these items can be damaged or broken during high winds. As electricity can travel through plumbing and phone lines, advise your employees to avoid running water and using landline phones during bad storms.
Recovering from a major storm can be overwhelming. You should contact water and storm damage restoration professionals if your Mission Bay, FL, business has been impacted by a severe rain storm and high winds.

Fixes for a Leaky Faucet

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Ball faucets contain a ball bearing as their internal mechanism

Tips For Fixing Two Of The Four Main Types of Faucets

Maintenance is not usually one of the joys of homeownership. However, when you detect a plumbing issue in your West Boca Raton, FL, home, you should tackle it sooner rather than later. A leaking faucet may seem like just a minor annoyance but it can become a bigger issue if ignored. In addition to high water bills, a leaky faucet can lead to water damage and require professional cleanup.
Here are some tips for fixing two of the four main types of faucets. Before you start, you need to turn off the water supply and plug the sink's drain. These are crucial steps no matter what type of dripping faucet you have.

1. Fixing a compression faucet

A compression faucet has two handles: one for hot water and one for cold water. If this is the kind of leaking faucet you have, start by unscrewing and removing each handle. When the handles are removed, you will find the stem, which sits on top of the O-ring. The O-ring sits on top of a rubber seat washer, which can wear down with use. In order to replace the O-ring and seat washer, pull the stem out and identify what kind of replacement parts you need. When you have the new items, install each piece and reassemble the handles.

2. Fixing a ball faucet

Ball faucets contain a ball bearing as their internal mechanism. These faucets have several parts, so you should buy a replacement kit to ensure you have the correct parts and tools. To begin, unscrew and remove the handle, then use pliers to remove the cap and collar. Then, remove the faucet cam, washer, and ball and locate the inlet seals and springs with needle-nose pliers. Remove these items and replace the O-rings, coating the news ones with plumber's grease first. From your kit, find and install the new springs, valve seats, and cam washers. Finally, reassemble the handle, and you should have a fixed leak.
If your home has a leaking faucet, don't hesitate to repair it. An unattended dripping faucet can lead to water damage, which you don't want to find in your home.

Important Facts About Floor Cleanup

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Floor damaged by water in Boca Raton, FL

With all that happens each day in your Boca Raton, FL, office, accidents are bound to happen from time to time. You won't worry too much about minor incidents, but for large-scale emergencies, you need to take decisive action. If something such as severe weather, a broken appliance or a pipe burst leave water on the floor, you should act quickly to clean it up. This will ensure the safety of everyone in the building and help preserve the floor and other materials.

When to Call the Pros

You should be able to handle minor cleanups needs yourself. However, if there is standing water or if the wet floor affects much of the building, it's time to contact a professional flood remediation team. More specifically, get a cleanup company involved when:

• You see black water or when an overflowing toilet or sewer backup caused the flooding.
  
• There is damage to electronics and documents.
  
• The floor is saturated or leaking through the ceiling on the floors below.
  
  

Timely Cleanup

If possible, you want to salvage your flooring, whether it's carpet or a hard surface. A wood floor, in particular, requires immediate action. If water sits on it too long, the wood will begin to warp and rot. At this point, you would have to tear it out. To save it, cleanup crews will extract the water and dry the area thoroughly. Technicians will then sanitize the floor to discourage mold growth.

Replacement Work

A pipe burst can send large amounts of water onto your office floor. If the crews discover that the wood is damaged beyond repair, they will tear it out and replace it. This will add to the restoration process, but it will give you peace of mind that your office is once again suitable for business.
Whether from a pipe burst or some other cause, a wet floor can cause serious problems. Make sure you respond promptly and get the pros on the job.

Mold Mitigation: Why Routine Inspections Matter, Even in Dry Climates

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

A cracked foundation or improper flashing installation can cause mold to grow over time

Four Possible Causes of Mold Growth

In Whisper Walk,FL, you likely do not think about mold as being a problem. After all, the climate is dry, and monsoons don't come along all too frequently. However, black mold, or other varieties, are just as likely here as anywhere else, and that is due to water. Every living thing needs it. The water lines in your business and even the occasional rainstorm can lead to mold growth, especially if you don't perform routine maintenance. Therefore, to avoid the need for a mold remediation company, be sure to inspect your facility for four possible causes of mold growth.

Roof damage
Seal cracks
AC leaks
Water pipe leaks

Roof Damage

Attic spaces are often a mold cleanup hotspot, especially in dry climate regions, because when you don't experience rain that often, you likely don't consider any problems with your roofline. However, every roof, regardless of location, should be inspected annually to ensure there are no holes or vulnerabilities to the outside elements, including too much humidity.

Seal Cracks

Also, black mold can find its way inside your building through failed or cracked seals and weather stripping around doors and windows. Again, because of the dryness of the area, you tend not to think of checking these vital protections against the outdoors, but they are critical to creating an airtight seal.

AC Leaks

Your AC is another potential culprit of mold growth. While it is essential to run the system during the year, how often do you check the condensate lines? Even small leaks can lead to mold development.
Water Pipe Leaks
Last, how often do you have your plumbing inspected? Again, small leaks, even slow drips, can lead to mold spores rooting down and spreading.
Regular inspections are necessary to reduce the threat and potential spread of black mold. Don't let a minor oversight lead to significant repairs and remediation efforts.