Be Safe During A Lightning Storm

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

Lightning can be dangerous and life threatening. Practice these safety tips during a storm.

Arizona's active monsoon season is just a few months away and according to The National Weather Service in Phoenix, it is predicted that Arizona “is going to have a very wet and active monsoon season, with nearly a 70% chance of precipitation expected to reach near or above normal across the Southwest” (AZ Central). Monsoon season typically brings rain, heavy winds, thunder, and lightning. Thunderstorms and lightning are very dangerous and can potentially pose life threatening risks if you are not careful or heed caution.  Here are some safety tips to put into practice so you know what to do when thunder and lightning are nearby.

• If you hear thunder five seconds or less after you see lightning, you are in the strike zone so seek shelter immediately in a building or vehicle.
• When indoors, stay away from doors and windows and avoid using the telephone as electrical wiring does attract lightning.
• Unplug electronic equipment such as televisions and computers that are not in surge protectors to avoid a power surge that could potentially fry your equipment. Surge protectors protect your equipment to avoid this from occurring.
• If you are unable to seek shelter and are stuck outdoors, do not stand near trees, electric or metal poles. You need to get at least 7 feet away from tall objects.
• Do not stand on hilltops or any higher elevated, open areas.
• Do not stand in water. If you are in a pool, get out immediately.

Always Here To Help!

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

Have a Safe and Happy Easter!

Happy Easter!

Easter is this Sunday and you know what that means! It is time to start coloring those eggs and getting those baskets and treats ready for whatever you have planned for your Easter Sunday! Temperatures are ideal at this time of year since we have not yet reached those insanely hot, triple degree temperatures.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is ready to respond to any water damage emergencies you may encounter, even if it is on Easter Sunday. We are available 24/7 for emergencies where standing water or flooding is involved. Our equipment along with our highly skilled technicians are prepared to help with the drying and cleanup you may be facing in your home.

From everyone here at SERVPRO of Scottsdale, we wish you all a Happy Easter!

Air Duct Cleaning and Allergy Season

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Ask us about our air duct cleaning services!

Spring is in the air and you know what that means, “Achoo!” Yes, you guessed it, allergies.

Every year, more than 50 million people across the United States are affected by allergies. The beginning of spring in the Valley means new growth of vegetation across our desert landscape on top of the year-round pollen we get from other trees, plants, grasses, and weeds that thrive in our warm Arizona climate. With spring in full bloom, strong winds, and high pollen counts, many allergy sufferers are dealing with common allergy symptoms ranging from sinus issues to itchy and watery eyes.

Aside from treating allergy symptoms with over-the-counter remedies, now is also a good time to clean your home regularly to help alleviate these allergy issues by dusting and vacuuming regularly, keeping your windows closed, and changing out your air filters. SERVPRO of Scottsdale can also help by cleaning your air ducts to eliminate any allergens or bacteria that may be circulating throughout your home. Not only do cleaner air ducts improve the air quality in your home, but it can also help extend the life of your HVAC system by restoring and improving it’s energy efficiency.  

Give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call at 480-998-7989 to schedule your air duct cleaning!

Flood Restoration Services In Your Business

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

If a flood has affected your business, give SERVPRO, your restoration professionals, a call at 480-998-7989.

When a flood takes place on your commercial property, it can cause a disruption to your day to day business productivity. Business owners and employees want to know when they can return to the office to get back to work, but this all depends on the seriousness of the water damage that occurred and if the water involved poses a health hazard. No matter what the case is, SERVPRO of Scottsdale is here to provide restoration services to help get you back in the doors and running your business.

1. Cleanup

During the flood cleanup process, it is not ideal for employees to be present as the type of water involved needs to be taken into consideration. For instance, if the flooding is from a plumbing incident involving a sewer backup, this will most likely involve black or gray water which can pose serious health risks. Once the plumbing issue is resolved, SERVPRO comes in to handle the cleanup as we are certified to handle disaster cleanups.

2. Demolition

During this phase of the restoration process, SERVPRO will remove any affected materials that are contaminated by black or gray water. Common materials that are removed included: carpets, drywall, and insulation. It is also recommended that employees continue to stay out of the office as this process is taking place.

3. Sterilization

The affected area is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized while also adhering to all proper cautions, to ensure that the business is returned to pre-flood conditions and is deemed safe for employees.

4. Restoration

This process involves replacement of areas where affected materials were removed such as walls, carpets, etc. While it can be a challenge and of course depends on the severity of the restorations process needed, employees do have the option of returning to work during this phase. All of this is a discussed between our SERVPRO technicians and the business owners.

Water Damage Accidents Can Happen

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage emergencies can happen at any time. Don't stress, call SERVPRO!

Experiencing Water Damage? Let Us Help!

No matter how put together your life may be, it’s easy to get thrown off course when it comes to daily routines in your home. It’s okay to not have it together all the time. Here at SERVPRO of Scottsdale, we understand that accidents can happen that can lead to emergencies occurring in your home. We have seen our fair share of slips up that have happened which have led to water damage in homes and businesses and we want you to know it’s okay, we are here to take care of the clean up and restoration of your property.

Whether you’ve accidentally left the water running in your kitchen sink or your child has clogged the toilet with their toys and caused it to overflow, we will come to handle the cleanup so you don’t have to. Give our office a call at 480-998-7989 to begin the process of getting your property back

Water Damage From Fire

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help make it "Like it never even happened."

Have you ever dealt with fire damage on your residential or commercial property? No matter the size, a fire on your property is devastating. From smoke damage to blackened and damaged walls and belongings, you can be left to wonder what to do next, especially when you’re left with unexpected water damage that is left behind once the fire department leaves.

Depending on the size of the fire, lots of water can be required to make sure the flames are fully extinguished. This can leave water everywhere, soaking your property and belongings. When this happens, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call.

SERVPRO can deal with fully drying out the moisture left behind once the fire department leaves as well as beginning the fire damage cleanup. 

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is always here to help! Give us a call at 480-998-7989 to learn more

Water Damage In New Facility

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Scottsdale for your water damage emergencies.

Our SERVPRO of Scottsdale technicians have had quite a busy time on their hands, especially this week with a new commercial job we received that is experiencing extensive water damage in their brand new facility.

A new commercial facility that has not opened their doors yet, had to delay their grand opening due to a booster pump that went out in their building. A booster pump helps to move water throughout a building and deliver it at a desired pressure. As a result, 15-20 rooms on the first floor were affected. SERVPRO of Scottsdale was contacted to handle the cleanup and restoration which requires 150 air movers to dry out the moisture. 

If your commercial property is dealing with water damage in your facility, give our office a call. We'll respond to your emergency and get you back up and running "Like it never even happened."

Essential Steps To Take After A Commercial Fire Loss

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Scottsdale to handle the restoration in your business.

Do you know what to do when a fire occurs in your Scottsdale business? It is vital to have preparations in place for your business in case the inevitable happens. Here are the steps to take once the flames are extinguished and the fire department leaves so your business can begin the process of getting back to normal day to day operations.

Contact Insurance

After the fire department leaves, make sure to call your insurance right away to begin the claims process with an insurance adjustor. Your policy should cover expenses from fire losses which include repairs and replacements as well as assets and equipment.

Call SERVPRO of Scottsdale

Once your insurance has been contacted and the claims process has begun, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call. We are the professionals to contact when it comes to fire and smoke damage cleanup and restoration. Our SERVPRO crews will assess the damage, extract water and dry affected areas damaged from the fire sprinklers and fire department, board up or use roof tarps to cover and protect damaged areas, repairing, repairing, and cleaning damaged or destroyed areas.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale has helped many commercial businesses who were dealing with the aftermath of a fire and worked with insurance adjustors throughout the process. Having insurance coverage that includes coverage for a fire loss helps get your business on track to begin the restoration process.

For more information on commercial fire damage, check it out here.  

Water Loss Categories

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

In order to safely and effectively clean after a water loss, it is imperative to know what category of water loss you are dealing with.

When water loss occurs in your Scottsdale business, it can be instinctual to take matters into your own hands and begin the cleanup yourself to avoid any downtime from taking place once the source of the issue is resolved. But handling a water loss cleanup yourself can cause more damage as the category of water needs to be considered to determine the best cleanup method.

Water Categories

Clean

Water is considered clean when it’s from a clean source such as a broken pipe or overflowing faucet pose no health hazards.

Gray

When gray water is involved, this can be due to chemicals or contaminants affecting the water from sources like appliance leaks or a broken toilet.

Black   

When black water is involved, don’t delay. Call SERVPRO of Scottsdale to handle the cleanup. We follow all proper procedures as black water can contain feces, pathogens, chemicals, or other forms of bacteria from sewage backups or flooding from outside sources.

Stay tuned for our next blog regarding how water losses can evolve into an extreme situation in your business.

Cold Wintry Weather In Scottsdale

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

Be safe when using your space heater or fireplace during the colder temps.

Last week, Avondale and the rest of the Phoenix area got to experience it’s first taste of wintry weather. The weather was brought to us by a low pressure system which brought a cold front bringing along strong winds and rain to the Valley as well as snow to other parts of the state. Last Thursday, Valley residents woke up to 37 degree temperatures making that morning commute to work pretty chilly.

Colder temperatures typically mean it’s time to add extra blankets and turn your heaters or space heaters on since many of us here in Avondale and Goodyear aren’t used to the cooler temps we’ve been seeing recently. Here are some safety tips to consider when it comes to your heaters.

• Test your smoke alarms to make sure they are working properly.
• Switch out the batteries on your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Never leave a space heater unattended. Make sure it is turned off and unplugged before leaving your home.
• Make sure there is at least a 3 foot safe space around your space heater to prevent anything from catching on fire.
• If you have a fireplace, make sure your fireplace and chimney are properly cleaned to prevent soot buildup from catching on fire.
• Do not leave a fire in your fireplace unattended. Have a fireplace screen in front to prevent any sparks from jumping out.

Deep Fryer Turkey Safety

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

Be safe this Thanksgiving when it comes to deep frying a turkey.

When you think of Thanksgiving, what’s the first thing that crosses your mind? Turkey? We think so too! Each year, families gather around the table with turkey and other delicious foods to celebrate a day of thanks with cherished loved ones. Thanksgiving is just a few short days away which means it’s a great time to review safety when it comes to deep frying a turkey. According to the National Fire Protection Association, “deep fryer fires cause an average of 5 deaths, 60 injuries and more than $15 million in property damage each year” (nfpa.org). Here are some tips to remember when it comes to frying a turkey for the dinner table.

Safety Tips

• Only use a turkey fryer outdoors and make sure it is a safe distance away from your home as well as other building structures and flammable items such as trees and shrubbery.
• Do not allow children or pets near the fryer.
• Never leave the fryer unattended.
• Do not overfill the fryer with oil.
• Use heat resistant gloves when handling the fryer to avoid any burns.
• Make sure the turkey is completely thawed out. Putting a frozen turkey in hot oil cam cause oil to spillover and could potentially start a fire.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Prevent Water Damage From Your Washing Machine

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

If you're facing water damage from your washing machine, give us a call at 480-998-7989.

Gone are the days of using washboards and old-fashioned machinery that required physical work on your part. Washing machines are a convenient modern amenity that allow us tackle loads of laundry with ease. Majority of households today are furnished with a washing machine because they make our lives so much easier then having to go out to a nearby laundromat. Over time, your washing machine can have some wear and tear and ultimately lead to water damage in your home. SERVPRO of Scottsdale has dealt with many homes dealing with this exact scenario so we put together some simple tips.

• Only use the recommended amount of detergent. Avoid using too much as this can cause build-up to occur in the washing machine’s overflow tube.
• Do not overload the washing machine. Putting too much in causes the washing machine to shake and can loosen the hoses in the back.
• Inspect the supply line in the back for wear and tear.
• It is recommended to replace the supply hose every 5 years to ensure that it continues to run smoothly. Even if there is no noticeable damage, you don’t know what is happening on the inside so replacing it every 5 years keeps it running efficiently.

If you find yourself dealing with water damage from your washing machine, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We will handle the cleanup and restore your property “Like it never even happened.”

Before Your Insurance Adjustor Arrives

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Be proactive to lessen the damage from a flood while your waiting on your insurance to arrive.

Although monsoon season is officially over, there is still the likelihood that Scottsdale and Rio Verde can receive scattered rainstorms during the Fall season. It may not be as constant or as intense as the monsoon storms we receive, but it’s safe to be prepared for the inevitable just in case. It is beneficial to know what to do should a flooding issue from a storm arise.

Call Your Insurance

If your home is experiencing flooding from a storm, your first call should be to your insurance adjustor and alert them of the situation so you can file a claim.

Call SERVPRO

Next, you’ll want to call SERVPRO of Scottsdale. We are available 24/7 when standing water is involved which means no matter what, we will do our best to send a team of technicians out as soon as we can. During this process, SERVPRO will assess the damage and perform water extraction to prevent further damage to your home. We will also complete an itemized list of damages for your insurance claim.

Take Pictures

Make sure to document the damage and take as many pictures as you can. If mold occurs over the next few days, be sure to document that as well for your insurance claim.

By taking immediate action and being proactive when a flood takes place in your home can help lessen the damage and keep it from getting worse in the long run.  

Winter Visitors Face Unexpected Damage

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Call our office if you detect water damage or mold growth!

Fall has officially arrived in Scottsdale which means we’re finally getting cooler morning temps and high temps in the 70’s and 80’s. As a Scottsdale resident, you know that lower temperatures here in the Valley of the Sun means it’s time for our winter visitors from out of state to move back to Arizona to take in this sunshine and gorgeous weather! Here at SERVPRO of Scottsdale, we have received calls from our winter inhabitants who have discovered water leaks or mold growth in their home caused by our active monsoon season from this summer.

If you find yourself in a similar predicament, give our office a call at 480-998-7989. We will guide you along the way of the mitigation process. 

Business Preparedness

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Prepare your business for emergencies and disasters.

As mentioned in previous blog entries, September is National Preparedness Month. Each year, Ready.gov recognizes this month to raise awareness and provide you with information on how to prepare for emergencies and disasters, especially if you’re a business owner. Here in Scottsdale, we are prone to heavy rainstorms during monsoon season which can lead to natural weather hazards such as flooding. According to ready.gov, businesses can also face other hazards such as health hazards, human caused hazards, and technology related hazards.

There are steps you need to take as a business to prepare your business and they are as follows:

• Identify your risk
• Develop a plan
• Take action
• Be recognized and inspire others

Ready.gov has helpful information on their website pertaining to different hazards and toolkits for preparing to deal with each of these situations.  

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is also available to help prepare you during these situations with our SERVPRO Ready Plan. The Ready Plan consists of information pertaining to your business for what to do in the event of water and storm damage, fire and smoke damage cleanup, as well as biohazard and crime scene cleanups. It establishes a point of contact here at our SERVPRO of Scottsdale office and minimizes interruption to your business by having a plan of action set in place for what to do in situations regarding water and fire damage. You can find out more information on our Ready Plan here.

Candle Safety 101

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Use caution when using candles this fall season.

September 22^nd marks the first day of fall and you know what that means! It’s time to change it up a little and give your home a nice and cozy autumn ambiance to welcome the changing season. Candles are a hit as they can add a nice decorative touch to your living space as well as adding a nice autumn scent to make for a calming atmosphere. Candles can add a nice touch to your space but using them requires attention as well as knowledge of the potential dangers that they can pose.

Here are some tips SERVPRO of Scottsdale has put together for you to consider when using candles in your home.

• Never leave a lit candle unattended. Always make sure you are in the same room. If you must leave a room, it’s better to be safe than sorry by putting out the flame.
• Place the candle on a secure surface so that it the candle won’t easily topple over or be knocked down.
• Situate the candle away from any flammable objects such as curtains, paper or any flammable liquids.
• Watch your children and pets when a candle is being used to prevent it from being knocked over.
• Do not touch or move a candle when it is lit as the candle itself can be hot to the touch causing you to accidentally drop.
• Always know where your fire extinguishers are located and know how to use it. You also want to make sure that you test your smoke alarms regularly to ensure that they are working properly.

Discovering Storm Damage In Your Home

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Don't delay when it comes to water damage. Call SERVPRO of Scottsdale right away to take care of the cleanup!

Many Scottsdale residents are still dealing with the aftermath from the monsoon storms that pummeled the area last month. During the ongoing storms, we received a high number of calls from homeowners and business owners who were faced with water damage from the storms. But what about the homeowners and business owners who didn’t deal with the water and storm damage right away?

SERVPRO of Scottsdale has been receiving calls from homeowners who have been relocating back to Arizona to spend the fall and winter months here. Upon arrival to their winter home, they have discovered extensive storm damage from the monsoons.

If you’re dealing with a similar situation and have discovered that your home has damage weeks after the rainstorms, then give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call!

Preparing An Emergency Kit

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Protect your family by preparing for disasters and emergencies.

As we’ve stated in our blog, “National Preparedness Month 2021,” September is National Preparedness Month which is to raise awareness and prepare you for emergencies and disasters. SERVPRO of Scottsdale wanted to provide you with some information on how to prepare an emergency kit for serious weather situations in Scottsdale.

We’ve seen in previous weeks intense monsoon storms that brought heavy rains, high winds and dust storms. If you or your family find yourself in an emergency weather situation, it’s essential to have a basic emergency supply kit readily available for when you need it. Here’s are some items to include in your kit.

• (Be sure to have at least 1 gallon for every person in your household.)
• Non-perishable food items
• Flashlights
• Radio
• First aid kit
• Batteries
• Power banks to charge your phones
• Emergency whistle
• Garbage bags
• Moist towelettes for personal use
• Map

The items listed above are what is recommended but  you can always add more to tailor to your own family’s personal needs.

National Preparedness Month 2021

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

The 2021 theme is "Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love."

National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month which is observed each year by Ready.gov to raise awareness about preparing for emergencies and disasters. This year’s 2021 theme is “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.” Ready.gov is a “National public service campaign designed to educate and empower the American people to prepare for, respond to and mitigate emergencies, including natural and man-made disasters. The goal of the campaign is to promote preparedness through public involvement” (Ready.gov).

Follow Us On Social Media

All month, SERVPRO of Scottsdale will be providing some helping information and tips regarding National Preparedness so be sure to Like and Follow us on our Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages.

Monsoon Storms Damage Commercial Properties

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Choose SERVPRO of Scottsdale when it comes to storm damage cleanup and restoration.

Many commercial properties were faced with water damage due to the frequent monsoon storms that have impacted the Scottsdale area within the past month. Scottsdale and the rest of the greater Phoenix area had very active storm activity. Thunderstorms and lightning roared across the sky followed by heavy rains and high winds which created low visibility dust storms.

Our SERVPRO office received numerous calls from businesses across the Scottsdale area who were dealing with issues caused by these storms. From damaged roofs that caused water to leak into office spaces to warehouses dealing with flooding issues, our highly experienced SERVPRO technicians were ready and available to respond to these emergencies.

If your commercial space is dealing with water damage issues from recent monsoon storms, give our office a call at 480-998-7989.

Monsoon Storms In Scottsdale

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you have standing water in your home due to rain storms, give us a call. We are available 24/7 for flooding and standing water emergencies.

Our SERVPRO of Scottsdale technicians have been working nonstop recently due to the number of monsoon storms that have taken place. Many Scottsdale and Rio Verde residents were dealing with roof leak issues that caused water-soaked ceilings and walls as well as causing damage to the flooring and furniture. Other residents were also dealing with standing water issues caused by flooding which required 24/7 immediate attention from our SERVPRO crews.

According to the National Weather Service, Phoenix so far has recorded 3.29 inches of rain since June 15^th. That would make this year’s monsoon the third wettest monsoon Phoenix has seen in previous years. In 2014, Phoenix recorded 6.34 inches of rain in 2014, followed by 5.70 inches of rain in 2008.

If you have discovered water damage or mold growth from these rain storms, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call now before the damage worsens.

July Monsoon Storms In Scottsdale

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is dealing with storm damage from monsoon storms, give our office a call.

Scottsdale and the surrounding areas have seen a highly active monsoon season, more so than the area has seen from previous monsoon seasons. Last week’s monsoon storms brought heavy rains, strong winds and lightning storms that caused much damage to the area. Aside from the flooded roadways and downed trees that was a common sight seen throughout the Valley and aired on local news channels, many homeowners were faced with flooding issues in their homes.

Available 24/7 For Emergencies 

Our SERVPRO of Scottsdale technicians worked many long hours responding to emergencies with customers in high stress situations. Our SERVPRO crews were prepared and ready to help Scottsdale residents with the cleanup and restoration process they were faced with in their homes.

If your home is dealing with aftermath from the monsoon storms, please give our office a call at 480-998-7989. 

Brush Fire In Scottsdale

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

Take care of the areas around your home to protect from brush fires that can occur nearby.

Wildfire season is here in Arizona. As of July 27^th, there are 16 active fires in Arizona according to the U.S. Forest Service. It only takes one spark, a cigarette butt thrown out of a car window, or a dragging chain from a vehicle, for a flame to ignite among dry brush. High winds can add fuel to a brush fire and cause devastation by spreading rapidly and destroying everything in its path. Last month, a brush fire that occurred overnight in Avondale, threatened nearby homes forcing many families to flee their homes as a safety precaution. Luckily, this brush fire was put out by the fire department before it caused any structural damage.

SERVPRO Scottsdale provided some brush fire readiness tips below:

• Maintain a 30 foot safety area around your home.
• Take care of the outside area surrounding your home by trimming trees and shrubs and remove any dead vegetation and dry overgrowth.
• Keep you’re your lawn mowed and maintained.
• Be mindful of where you park your vehicle as a parked vehicle near dry brush can cause a spark.
• Have a plan in place with your family that includes escape routes and safe meeting locations in the event of a brush fire.
• Be alert and stay informed by monitoring the news, social media, and having emergency alerts on your phone so you can be aware of when it is time to evacuate your home.

National Safety Month - Fire

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

June is National Safety Month! Practice safety while cooking to prevent a fire from occurring.

June is National Safety Month. As a homeowner, it is important to recognize and minimize your risks when it comes to fires. Cooking is among the leading causes of home fires so you want to do all you can to minimize the risks in your home. Here are some tips to consider adding into your cooking routine.

• Use extra caution or avoid using the stove or oven if you are overly tired or if you have consumed a few alcoholic beverages.
• Do not leave the kitchen unattended while you are cooking. It only takes a few seconds for a spark to turn into flames that can quickly spread.
• While using the oven, check the food frequently as grease or oil splatters from the food can lead to a grease fire in your oven.
• Keep easily flammable items away from the hot oven and stovetop such as towels, dish cloths and pot holders.

As a homeowner, you want to do your absolute best to minimize the risks when it comes to home fires because what can start as a small grease fire can quickly spread and destroy your home. According to the National Safety Council, “over the past several decades, deaths from home fires in the U.S have steadily gone down – from 5,200 in 1980 to 2,820 in 2018.” Although this is great news, one death is still too many so do all you can to practice safety when it comes to cooking.

SERVPRO Tip Tuesday

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

June is National Safety Month!

Are You Following Us On Social Media?

SERVPRO Tip Tuesday is here to let you know that June is National Safety Month! National Safety Month focuses on reducing leading causes of injury and death at work, on the road, and in our homes and communities. Be sure to follow our SERVPRO of Scottsdale social media pages to stay informed on safety tips!

June 8, 2021

The National Safety Council is celebrating 25 years of providing information and focusing on preventing injury and deaths through safety measures for the workplace, home, and other areas of life. According to the National Safety Council, “more than 800,000 patients are hospitalized each year because of injuries due to a fall” (nsc.org). For something as simple as standing on a chair to change a lightbulb, it’s important to do what you can to minimize the risk of this situation by identifying any hazards to prevent an incident from occurring.

For more information on safety information regarding National Safety Month, check out the National Safety Council or Like and Follow us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn to stay up to date.

Protect Your Home From Flooding

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Monsoon season is almost here. Protect your home from a potential flood today.

Monsoon season is just around the corner which makes it an optimal time to start preparing your home or business for any possible flooding that may occur from heavy rains that come hand in hand with monsoon storms. SERVPRO of Scottsdale wants you to be prepared to avoid any heavy water damage to your property. Here are some tips to prevent potential flooding issues.

• Clean out roof drains to prevent water from collecting on the roof.
• Clean out drywells on your property so water has a safe place to collect.
• Examine and maintain the landscaping around your home to make sure water runs away from your home.
• If you are located in a lower elevation area where flooding is known to happen, you can prepare by having bags of sand available to serve as a flood barrier.
• Lastly, review your home's insurance policy and make sure you have flood insurance just in case. 

If your home or business is dealing with water damage from monsoon storms, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call at 480-998-7989. We are always here to help!

Memorial Day 2021

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid a potential fire from occurring by following these grilling safety tips!

Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day is just around the corner and you know what that means! Backyard bbq’s and gathering with friends and family. After a whirlwind of a year due to Covid-19 and with vaccines being available to the general population, people are now starting to reconnect and socialize with their loved ones after a tumultuous year of lockdowns and social distancing guidelines. SERVPRO of Scottsdale would like for you to practice grilling safety with these simple tips.

Grilling Safety Tips

• Make sure you place your grill outside and far away from your home or any overhead structures.
• Choose a spot that is flat and stable.
• Make sure there are no weeds, trees or shrubbery around your grilling area. It only takes a tiny spark for flames to spread among dry weeds.
• If you’re using a gas grill, check the gas tank for any leaks in the gas tank hose. This is done by applying a light mixture of soap and water over the hose and looking for any areas where the mixture may be bubbling up. Also be aware of any smells as this could also indicate a leak.
• Clean the grill by using a grill brush to clean off any grease build up to prevent a grease fire from occurring.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand just in case. Baking soda is useful as well in the event of a grease fire.
• If you are using a charcoal grill, do not apply lighter fluid to open flames. When using lighter fluid, apply it to the charcoal before it is lit.
• Never leave the grill unattended.
• Always watch your pets and children around a grill to avoid accidentally knocking the grill over.
• If you are using a charcoal grill, make sure you are nearby to ensure that the charcoal cools down before disposing of it properly.

SERVPRO Tip Tuesday

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Stay tuned for next week's SERVPRO Tip Tuesday!

Are You Following Us On Social Media?

Are you following SERVPRO of Scottsdale on Facebook and Instagram? Well – you should! Every Tuesday, be on the lookout for our SERVPRO Tip Tuesday which includes helpful information and quick tips that are beneficial to homeowners and business owners.

May 18, 2021

Despite its name, the garbage disposal should not take the place of your garbage can. There are certain items you should avoid tossing into the disposal such as:

• coffee grounds
• chicken or fish bones
• nuts
• oatmeal
• egg shells
• potato peels, just to name a few.

Working the garbage disposal too hard can result in clogging issues that can lead to improper drainage and cause potential water damage in your kitchen.

Be sure to Like and Follow our social media pages down below and check out our weekly SERVPRO Tip Tuesday's and stay up to date on other information we post as to how we can help your home or business!

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The Importance of Gutter Systems During Monsoons

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure to clean and maintain your gutters to prevent water damage in and around your home.

Gutter Systems Are Important

Rain gutters serve an extremely useful purpose to your home or business. When a rainstorm hits, it helps to protect and steer water away from your home and foundation. That is why it is important to take care of your gutter system and clean it regularly to prevent clogs from occurring.

Clean and Maintain

During Scottsdale's monsoon season, a lot of debris can fly around during the high winds that take place during monsoons and can clog up your rain gutters. When your rain gutters are full of debris, the rainwater can start to back up and not drain properly. This can lead to water pooling on your roof and causing damage such as possible rot and deterioration, mold growth, as well as damaged shingles. Downspouts play an important role in the gutter system as they allow the water from the roof gutters to safely drain out and a safe distance away from your home and its foundation.

It’s important to be aware of the possible damages that could take place if you don’t have a proper gutter system in place that is not cleaned and maintained ahead of monsoon season here in the Valley. If you find that your home is dealing with water damage from a gutter system that has caused water damage to your roof or other areas of your home, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call.

Helping Our Texas Neighbors

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Scottsdale helped Texas residents in need for the storm damage that took place.

In February 2021, many Texans across the Lone Star State were met with harsh winter conditions that was caused by three winter storms that swept across the United States. This brought record low temperatures as well as winter conditions which included snow and ice for many living across the state. Because of these freezing temperatures, many homes and business were without electricity due to a failed power grid and were experiencing severe water damage caused by flooding from frozen water pipes.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale was one of the many franchises across the United States that responded to the winter storm damage. Our crews drove for many hours to Austin, Texas to lend a helping hand to residents in need. We worked on many homes and businesses to provide water damage restoration and mold remediation services to help residents get back on track to normalcy.

When a national storm crisis takes place, you can count on SERVPRO to be there to lend a helping hand because we are all in this together.  

Let Us Help Your Commercial Property

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Give us a call and see how we can help you!

SERVPRO of Scottsdale deals with commercial properties every day. Whether it’s water, fire, smoke, mold, sewage cleanup, air duct cleaning or preventative cleaning services such as post COVID-19 cleanup, we handle it all.

Our SERVPRO technicians have years of experience under their belt as well as having received IICRC industry certifications. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) sets the criteria for the cleaning and restoration industries. They provide courses on adhering to best practices for water and fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning as well as additional cleaning and restoration courses.

If your business is in need of our services, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call at 480-998-7989. Our office staff is here to answer your questions. 

Flood Safety Tips

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Create a flood safety plan.

Monsoon season is just a few months away for residents in Scottsdale. At a time where majority of us will be melting from triple degree temperatures, the monsoon rains bring much needed moisture and cooler temps. Although monsoon storms are welcomed in the southwestern desert, it’s important to follow safety guidelines as monsoon storms bring heavy rains and floods. Here are 4 tips to keep you safe during a flood.

1. Have a safety plan in place to keep your home and your loved ones as safe as possible. Be sure to include things such as how to safely escape your home in the event of a flood, where to keep your pets, how to create a barrier around your home to prevent water from entering and a list of things to keep in your emergency kit.
2. Be sure to have batteries just in case you need them for things such as flashlights and radios. It’s also good to have battery power banks on hand to charge your phones.
3. Move to higher ground as it’s easy to get swept away and knocked off your feet with fast moving floodwaters. If you live in a two story home, move to the second level of your home.
4. Have a plan in place for storm cleanup if your home is dealing with water damage after a flood. SERVPRO of Scottsdale is ready to help you with the cleanup process. We will assess the situation, clean up the damage and dry out the moisture to prevent mold growth from occurring.

It's Time For Spring Cleaning

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Make some time for spring cleaning in your home!

Spring is in the air which means only one thing, it’s time for spring cleaning! A deep thorough cleaning of your home can be refreshing and enjoyable, especially when you’re coming home from a long day at work. Cleaning and decluttering your space can be therapeutic because your home is your sanctuary and your place to unwind and recharge. SERVPRO of Scottsdale has put together some simple tips for you when it comes time to cleaning your home.

• It always helps to get the household involved in the cleaning process. It makes it that much more efficient and effective if you divide responsibilities among those living in your home.
• It also helps to clean room by room. Before you start the process, try going through each room and make a list of what needs to be done.
• It always helps to go through your belongings to see what you need to declutter. Make piles of items you’d like to keep, donate or throw away.
• Make sure you have all the tools and cleaning products needed to do the job. It’s easy to skip cleaning the windows because you don’t have window cleaner so make sure to go through your cleaning products to make sure you have what you need.
• Don’t forget to clean the outside of your home as well. For instance, the outside entry way, windows, and cleaning the gutters, just to name a few.

Once all the cleaning is complete, make an effort to maintain the area so when it’s time for the next deep cleaning, it won’t be as intense. Happy Spring Cleaning! 

Grilling Safety Tips

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid fire damage in and around your home by practicing these grilling safety tips!

The weather is warming up from the cooler temps we’ve been experiencing here in Scottsdale. Warmer temperatures means people are trying to get outdoors as much as possible before we see those scorching triple digit temperatures. For many of us, spending time outdoors can mean one thing – it’s grilling time. SERVPRO of Scottsdale has put together a list of some grilling safety tips for your next cookout. The last thing anyone should have to deal with is fire damage from a grilling mishap.

Avoid A Fire, Practice Safe Grilling

• Grills should only be used outdoors.
• Make sure you place your grill away from building structures on a flat surface.
• Don’t grill around a lot of weeds, trees or shrubbery.
• Make sure you have a fire extinguisher on hand just in case.
• Do not leave the grill unattended.
• Make sure the grill is clean and that any fat or grease buildup is removed.
• If you’re using a charcoal grill, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never use the starter fluid on open flames.

Commercial Property Water Damage

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

If you are experiencing water damage in your apartment, please give us a call right away to prevent further damage from occurring.

Due to the pandemic, we understand that life has become even more stressful due to changes we’ve had to undergo as a society within the past year. Many of us are working from home and children are now taking part in remote learning in an effort to encourage social distancing protocols. Because we are spending more time at home, we understand that accidents can happen and it’s okay because we are here to help you.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale recently responded to a customer who was dealing with water damage that had initially began in their bathroom. The individual was cleaning their tub when they then moved onto mopping the floors. As a result, they accidentally left the water running in the shower which overflowed throughout the apartment and caused damage to the base laminate floor. The water then seeped into the apartment below which caused damage to show 24 hours later. This is a situation that we see occur often when it comes to apartments and condos. Water damage to other units doesn’t always show up immediately and when left untreated, can cause extensive damage and mold growth to occur.

When your commercial property such as an apartment complex is dealing with water damage, please give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call to handle the water cleanup and dryout process.

We Can Help With Fire Damage Cleanup

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Do you need fire and smoke damage cleanup in your home? Give us a call at 480-998-7989 to learn about how we can help you.

Your home is your sanctuary, a place that houses your precious keepsakes and memories, as well as providing a safe space for you and your loved ones. It is a place where you can kick off your shoes and relax after a long day at work and where family gathers around the table for dinner, conversation, and laughs. But when a home fire takes place, this disrupts everything

Dealing with a fire in your home can be a very scary and traumatic experience when your living space is affected, and you face the unknown of what lies ahead. SERVPRO of Scottsdale is here to guide you along the way and to help you with the fire damage cleanup and restoration process so that you begin the process of moving forward and restoring your home.

Give us a call at 480-998-7989 if your home is in need of fire and smoke damage cleanup.    

Shower Left On Causes Water Damage

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage accidents in your home can happen. If you're dealing with this, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call at 480-998-7989.

People across Phoenix, as well as across the country and world, are experiencing all the changes that have taken place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We find ourselves spending majority of our time at home, for instance; working from home, tending to remote learning for school aged children, and those that choose to social distance in general. Because of this, many are dealing with a busy and hectic home life that as a result, we can simply forget to do something so minor that it can cause damage to our home and disrupt our daily schedules.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale recently worked with a customer that had accidentally left the water running while cleaning the shower. The customer got sidetracked while cleaning their shower that they then went on to mopping their floors. The overflowing water from the shower ran throughout the unit and caused damage to the base laminate floor. The water then seeped into the rental unit below. This is an issue that we see take place in properties with multiple floors. The damage is not always immediately noticed which was the case with the neighbor living below our customer.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale responded by providing water dryout and mitigation services. We understand that accidents can happen. We are here and ready to help you when it comes to water damage you are dealing with in your home.

Please feel free to call our office at 480-998-7989 for more information on water damage repair and restoration.  

Experiencing water damage? SERVPRO of Scottsdale can help!

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is available 24/7 for water damage emergencies in your home or business!

Can you imagine coming home from a long day at work, kicking off your shoes, and getting ready to relax? But once you walk into your bedroom, you discover that your ceiling is heavily damaged and water is leaking from the ceiling. In a frenzy, you panic and call the front office of your apartment building. This is when they discover that a plumbing issue has occurred upstairs.

Available 24/7 For Water Damage Emergencies

We have seen this type of stressful scenario play out amongst many Scottsdale residents which is why SERVPRO of Scottsdale is here and ready to respond 24/7 to your water damage emergencies. 

Give us a call at 480-998-7989. Our friendly office staff will guide you in what the next steps are so our experienced SERVPRO technicians can begin the cleanup and dryout/mitigation process.  

SERVPRO Is Here To Help

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is available 24/7 when it comes to water damage emergencies.

It is officially a new year and we welcome 2021 with new possibilities and hope. SERVPRO of Scottsdale would like you to know that we are here and will continue to be here to help you with your commercial or residential property. Here at SERVPRO, we specialize in water damage cleanup, fire, smoke and soot damage restoration, mold mitigation and remediation. Aside from restoration, we also handle cleaning such air ducts and HVAC cleaning, biohazard and crime scene cleanup as well as COVID cleaning and disinfecting.

If your property is in need of any of these services, feel free to give our office a call at 480-998-7989 and our office staff would be happy to help and guide you in the right direction. Here at SERVPRO of Scottsdale, we are always here to help.

Prevent A Toilet Overflow With These Easy Tips

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Is your business dealing with a toilet overflow or sewage backup? Give SERVPRO a call at 480-998-7989.

When you’re a business owner, you want to make sure every aspect of your business is running efficiently so that no down time in productivity occurs. Overflooding toilets to a business can be hazardous and lead to a business having to close in order to take care of the repairs and cleanup. Here at SERVPRO of Scottsdale, we have seen our fair share of businesses who have experienced toilet overflows. We put together 4 simple tips to try and prevent the likelihood of this type of situation from occurring in your business.

Post Signs

Make sure that you have signs posted in the restrooms that indicate what you can’t flush to prevent unwanted clogs from occurring.

Install Waste Bins

Make sure to have the appropriate bins available for non-flushable items such as sanitary napkins and diapers. Be sure to dispose the contents regularly to prevent people from flushing these items in the toilet.

Thinner Toilet Paper

Be sure to provide thinner toilet paper that way it can break down easier and prevent clogs from happening.

Drain Cleanings

Make sure to schedule drain cleanings every month or when permittable. Drain cleanings are especially important for restaurants as grease can build up and lead to a blockage.

We hope that your business can avoid or prevent a toilet backup or overflow from occurring. If you ever do find yourself having to deal with a sewage backup, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call at 480-998-7989 and we’ll handle the cleanup for you.

5 Ways to Prepare Your Business for Flood Damage

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Keep computer files backed up on an external hard drive or cloud

Prepare To Face A Flood Before Disaster Strikes

As a business owner, you need to make sure that you're prepared to take on any type of disaster, including flooding. Failure to address or remediate water damage in a timely manner can result in devastating amounts of secondary damage. Protect your business in Scottsdale, AZ, by preparing to face a flood before disaster strikes.

1. Assess Your Location's Risk.
There are multiple ways to assess your building's flood risk. The Federal Emergency Agency can provide you with a map that displays locations that have a higher flood risk.

2. Create and Discuss a Disaster Plan With Your Employees.
It's a good idea to implement a couple of different disaster plans for your business. It is vital that you inform and train your employees on the specifics regarding any type of evacuation plan. This can help ensure everyone's safety in the event of a major black water flood.

3. Install Alternative Energy Sources.
Less severe storms or floods might not warrant a complete evacuation. If business can continue safely, then you should make every attempt to do. Installing backup generators and air conditioning units can help expedite recovery time and reduce the amount of income lost.

4. Protect Important Records.
Your business's most important files should have multiple backups regardless. In case of flooding, you should make steps to waterproof these backup copies. Store physical documents in waterproof containers that are elevated at least one foot above the projected flood level. Electronic documents should have multiple backups stored in the Cloud.

5. Purchase Commercial Flood Insurance.
According to FEMA, almost 40% of small businesses are unable to recover from even the smallest of floods. Insurance coverage can help prevent flood damage from killing your business.
Don't let your business succumb to water damage caused by flooding. Take the time to ensure that your building, employees and personal property are all prepared to face any type of disaster. Make sure to contact storm remediation experts if your business has fallen victim to flood damage.

Fire Damage Also Means Water Damage

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

After the fire trucks leave, call the company that is the industry leader in fire and water restoration

Fire And Water Damage 

Fires big and small can create severe fire damage to your North Scottsdale, AZ, business. Along with charred belongings, soot-covered walls and lingering smoke odors, there is another issue that will need to be addressed: water damage.

Damage Expectations
Depending on their size, extinguishing those flames may require a fire hose shooting out hundreds of gallons of water. While it’s vital to get the fire out, that water will saturate your property and belonings. Recovering from both issues means an extensive cleanup. After the flames are out and your insurance provider is called, below are potential requirements that may be needed to get things back to normal.

Mold Mitigation – Mold spores can begin to grow and spread within 48 hours.
Wood Damage – Porous materials will absorb the water, which could result in floors or furniture warping and buckling.
Ceiling and Drywall Issues – Both the water and fire can damage ceiling tiles and drywall, potentially creating a perfect location for hidden mold to grow.
Electrical Integrity – Wiring, outlets and electronics exposed to water could pose another fire risk.
Dry Time – Air circulation will be key to drying out any water-logged belongings and structural components.

Professional Help
The combination of water and fire damage may feel overwhelming, especially when getting operations going again is vital to the success of your business. Instead of tackling everything on your home, let a fire, water and mold damage restoration professional handle the situation. As a one-stop shop for all forms of damage, they will have certified technicians that have the expertise and tools to properly complete the needed repairs. Along with repairs, they have advanced techniques to clean and salvage many items, including documents, furniture, textiles and furniture.
The effects of fire damage can hurt a business’s bottom line. Get help that is Faster to Any Size Disaster to address all the issues and ease the process.

Know Water Loss Category Before Starting the Cleanup Process

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration in Rio Verde, AZ

When a water loss happens in your Rio Verde, AZ, business, your instincts will likely kick in to instantly find and stop the source and begin the cleanup process. Unfortunately, even if the flooded business only needs a water pipe repair, the water itself needs to be considered before cleaning can begin.

Categories of Water

There are three categories of water:

Clean – Water is from a clean source, such as a broken pipe or overflowing faucet, and poses no potential hazards.
Gray – This type may contain some chemicals or contaminants that could be harmful if ingested. Sources include appliance leaks or broken toilet.
Black – This is highly contaminated water with potential feces, pathogens, chemicals and other microorganisms. This comes from sources such as flooding from rising streams or rivers or sewage backups. Extra safety precautions are needed when dealing with this category of water.

Water Loss Can Evolve
Even if the cause was a burst pipe that only requires a water pipe repair, that doesn’t necessarily mean you are dealing with clean water. The first two categories of water can easily and quickly evolve to a higher classification. That can happen if the water source happens on a second floor and trickles down through insulation, drywall and other materials. Also, the longer water sits, the more chances it can change. Excess moisture often produces optimal conditions for mold growth, which can change the water classification type within 48 hours. The following questions should be asked before diving into the cleanup process:

• Is there standing water?
  
• How long has it been there?
  
• When was it noticed?
  
  

If you are sure of the answers, consider contacted a water and mold damage and restoration professional to safely and effectively handle the situation.

Even if the source only requires a water pipe repair, what happens after the water loss is vital to determining the best way to approach the mess. It’s best to fall on the side of safety and get a professional that is Faster to Any Size Disaster to handle the situation.

What Not to Do After a Flood

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

Never enter a flooded roadway

Avoid The Following From Your Home After A Flood

Dangerous flood water can cause problems for anyone, even if you've never experienced a flood before. Knowing the correct, and incorrect, actions to take during and after the incident can, not only save your life, but also help you avoid subsequent property damage. Make sure to avoid the following if your home in Scottsdale, AZ, has recently suffered from a flood.

1. Never Enter a Moving Flood.
There are a number of reasons why wading or swimming in flood water is a terrible idea. The water could likely contain harmful biohazards or other contaminants. Likewise, it's difficult to tell how quickly the current is moving. It only takes about 6 inches of water to sweep you away.

2. Never Disobey Emergency Response Crews.
First responders, local authorities and other types emergency response crews exist to help you. Disobeying or ignoring them can put you in danger, as well as make their jobs significantly more difficult. You're better off listening to what they have to tell you and following their directions.

3. Never Touch Standing Water.
Just because the water in your flooded home isn't moving, doesn't mean it's safe. Much like the flood currents, this standing water could contain harmful biohazards. It's also possible that the water could be electrically charged, especially if it has come into contact with an outlet or electronic device.

4. Never Drive Through a Flood.
It only takes about a foot of water to sweep your car away. Avoid catastrophe by simply keeping out of the flood altogether.

5. Never Ignore Water Damage.
All types of floods can cause damage, not just severe ones. After the authorities give you permission to return home, you need to take immediate action to remediate any water damage. Leaving it untreated can cause mold growth and other types of structural damage.
Flood water should never be taken lightly. Staying alert and listening to your local authorities is the best way to keep yourself and your family safe. If your home has suffered damage following a flood, you need to contact flood remediation experts.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth to drywall

Is Your Home Protected Against Mold Damage?

Homeowners insurance can protect your residential property from a lot of different disasters and types of damage. Despite how common residential fungus growth is, many insurance policies still don't cover mold damage directly. Read on to see whether your home in North Scottsdale, AZ, is protected against mold damage.

When You Are Covered

The majority of insurance policies cover mold damage if, and only if, the damage was caused by what's known as a "covered peril." A covered peril is essentially any type of disaster or damage that the insurance policy already covers. Here are a few examples:

• Lightning strikes
• Fire damage
• Theft
• Malicious mischief, or other types of vandalism
• Damage caused by vehicles
• Frozen pipes
• Falling objects
  

Because each insurance policy is different, it's important to check yours to see which accidents are covered. If the fungus growth is a direct result of any covered perils in your policy, then you're covered. However, if the mold is a result of your personal carelessness, or if you leave it unreported for too long, then you likely have to pay for the damage yourself.

When You Aren't Covered
Don't worry if your existing policy doesn't cover mold damage. You always have the option to purchase a mold insurance policy. This is a separate policy endorsement that adds mold coverage to your existing homeowners insurance policy. Depending on your home's specific mold risk -- this is determined by where you live, how often you typically deal with mold damage and other various factors -- you may end up paying between $500 and $1,500 annually for separate mold coverage.
Fungus growth is a very common occurrence that the majority of homeowners do have to handle at some point. It may be beneficial to purchase a separate policy endorsement to make sure that your property is covered, just in case your existing policy is reluctant to protect you. If you do discover mold damage in your home, you should contact mold remediation experts immediately.

How To Prevent and Unclog Kitchen Drains

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Run cold water when breaking up food and then let it continue for a full minute once the disposal has been shut off

Kitchen Drain Clogged? What To Do?

Any kitchen sink is prone to becoming clogged. If this happens to yours, it’s possible the issue can be remedied through the use of a plumber’s snake.

Avoiding Clogs
Before you need to purchase an unclogging tool, however, realize that blockages can be stopped from occurring by:

• Properly handling your garbage disposal. Run cold water when breaking up food and then let it continue for a full minute once the disposal has been shut off.
  
• Using a sink strainer. Doing this stops problematic debris from entering the drainpipe.
  
• Never dumping inappropriate materials down your drain. Any type of building material is particularly discouraged.
  
  

Heeding these warnings will lessen the odds of a clogged sink negatively impacting daily life. Should one happen anyway, try alleviating the matter by following the below procedure.

Snaking Clogs
Purchase a plumber’s snake from your local hardware store, and insert the device into the drain. Then turn the drum handle. This action will begin moving the snake down your pipe. When you encounter resistance, you have reached the bend. Get past this by applying added pressure. Rent an electrical drain auger if you fear this potential difficulty.
Once you reach the blockage, rotate the snake so it begins chopping up the offending matter. Twisting should become easier if the instrument does its job correctly. Next, remove the snake. The problematic refuse may come out attached or it may run down the drain. Lastly, blast water at the highest pressure possible for several minutes to assure the complication has totally disappeared.
In instances where off-the-shelf remedies fail, hire a residential water restoration service to dismantle your sink and extricate the mass without causing a pipe break or something possibly worse.
Should a clogged pipe afflict you while preparing a meal in Rio Verde, AZ, attempt to end the problem on your own. If the concept of handling such a task makes you uncomfortable, employ a professional who can competently complete the job.

Reasons To Board Up a Home With Fire Damage

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

Board up services to a home in Scottsdale, AZ after fire damage

A home ravaged by flames is in need of quick-fire restoration services. No matter how efficiently technicians work, however, they can't be present all the time. Board up services offer several protections during the mitigation process.

Protection From Additional Damage

After a fire, your home in Scottsdale, AZ, probably has a few gaping holes in areas that are typically covered. Leaving these holes open exposes your home to several risks:

• Weather elements
  
• Vandalism
  
• Animal invasion
  
• Theft
  
  

When you leave your home vulnerable to these potential problems, you may soon have more damage that needs repair. If people with nefarious intentions get into your home, they could steal or destroy anything from personal belongings to your pipes or wires. Emergency board up services can keep you from suffering a greater loss than you already have.

Protection of Insurance Coverage
Insurance is designed to cover losses that are outside your control. Your homeowner's policy likely covers most if not all of the fire damage to your home. If you do not board up your house, however, any additional issues that result from that decision are unlikely to be covered by your policy. Insurance providers usually view such omissions as negligence because taking the appropriate measures to protect your home could have prevented the subsequent damage.

Protection From Liability
You may not think that anyone would try to enter a home that is clearly damaged and thus possibly unsafe, but passersby may see the open spaces in your home as an invitation. If people do enter your home through an opening that you left unobstructed, they may get hurt. They can then sue you for damages and possibly even win their case because you did nothing to keep them out. Boarding up your home minimizes this risk.
There are several reasons to use professional board up services when your home is damaged by a fire. Remembering this step can protect you, your home and others.

Things to Consider Before Making a Fire Damage Claim

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

Things to Consider Before Making a Fire Damage Claim

After your business in Scottsdale, AZ, has been targeted by fire damage, there are many things that you need to think about. However, making an effective insurance claim should be one of your priorities. Before you make your claim, it’s crucial to understand what is expected of you as the business owner. Here are some of the most important things to consider before you make a fire claim.

Record Signs of Damage

The process of filing an insurance claim can go much more smoothly if you are proactive in documenting all signs of damage to your business. To keep records of all types of harm, be sure to:

• Take photos of damage
• Collect receipts for items that are damaged or destroyed
• Make list of damaged items
• Keep track of how much you paid for harmed belongings

Taking these steps makes the claims-filing experience easier for you and shows your insurance company that you’re serious about your claim.

Show the Insurance Adjuster Around

When the insurance adjuster arrives at your business, it’s vital that you are with him or her so that you can show all signs of damage. Make sure you lead the adjuster around the building so that he or she can witness the full extent of your loss. To solidify your fire claim, it’s also wise to provide your insurance adjuster with extra copies of your list of damaged items as well as your receipts.

Understand Your Policy

Not every insurance policy is the same, and it’s important to understand exactly what is covered in yours before you make a claim. While reviewing your policy, make sure that nothing is ambiguous and that you know which aspects of your fire damage will be covered. This can help prevent any misunderstandings from occurring during the claims-filing process.
To bring your business back to life after a fire incident, you need to take immediate action. While a fire claim can help cover the costs of damage, total fire restoration requires help from experts. Contact professional restoration services immediately to help your business fully recover from the fire.

When It Comes to Black Mold, Never Put It on Hold

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

There are over four thousand four-letter words in the English language, yet none perhaps send a shudder down the spine of a building owner like the word “mold” does. Compounding it with the word “black” can raise anxiety in the most levelheaded of people. While all types of mold should be addressed with urgency, black mold needs to be handled as soon as possible to protect a building's structure.

Where Can It Strike?

This mold enjoys particularly damp conditions, making it more prevalent in areas of the property that are exposed to moisture. Breakrooms, bathrooms, ceilings, stairwells and even common areas are all susceptible because mold can grow anywhere and on anything. The following surfaces are especially prone to mold damage:

• Drywall
  
• Wallpaper
  
• Insulation
  
• Carpet
  
• Wood
  
• Concrete
  
• Stone
  
  

Essentially, any area in a building that has high humidity, water leakage, warmth and little to no light can be a breeding ground for mold.

How Should It Be Handled?
Containment of black mold requires both preventative and reactive measures, which are necessary to limit the structural harm done to a commercial space. For example, staying on top of leaks and carrying out periodic inspection of high-risk areas is a must. Furthermore, maintaining low humidity by air conditioning and ventilating creates an environment inconducive to mold growth.
Once detected, performing mold cleanup (such as drying of wet materials and comprehensive cleaning and disinfection) at the earliest opportunity is critical in restricting the spread. The inconvenient truth is that mold is rarely eliminated, making professional mold remediation vital for property protection.
Black mold doesn’t have to be scary. By being wary of conditions that incubate mold and diligent in periodic inspections, a landlord or tenant in Scottsdale, AZ, can proactively limit its growth. If any trace of mold is found, make sure to nip it in the bud with the help of mold experts.

Why You Should Change Your Polybutylene Pipes

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

If your business is relying on polybutylene pipes, you should have them replaced as soon as possible

Why You Should Change Your Polybutylene Pipes

Sometimes, excitement over new technologies and materials can overwhelm attempts to understand the actual qualities of these technologies or materials. This has certainly been true in the case of polybutylene piping. Early enthusiasm over easy installation and relatively inexpensive cost resulted in its installation in many thousands of homes and businesses before serious flaws became apparent.

1. Your Piping is Probably Out of Date
If your piping was installed a long time ago, your chances of experiencing a catastrophic failure are increasing as time goes on. Every type of piping experiences normal erosion that wears away at pipes from the inside. When materials present in water react chemically with lining in your plumbing, it becomes more likely that pipes will crack or fail, causing damage where a leak has occurred. It is always advisable to install new plumbing if you have any concerns about the age of your existing water infrastructure.

2. They Are Prone to Chemical Corrosion
Because Polybutylene pipes are weakened by chlorine and other common water treatment chemicals, they are especially prone to failure only a short time after installation. Although these were likely installed between the 1970s and 1990s, they should always be replaced, regardless of how long ago they were installed.

3. Water Damage Can Cost You
Damage to your business caused by a leak or pipe burst is best avoided through prevention. If your space has been inundated with water, surfaces may have suffered structural damage that leave them prone to the development of mold. While it is possible to clean up this type of damage on your own, contacting a professional water remediation service will give your property the best chance of being restored to normal.
If your North Scottsdale, AZ, business is relying on polybutylene pipes to transport water, you should have them replaced as soon as possible. Other types of plumbing also have drawbacks, so it is important that you understand when your commercial property's system was installed, as well as what materials were used.

Commercial First Aid Kit Requirements

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

An adequately stocked emergency first aid kit is the foundation of any commercial establishment's safety measures

As a commercial business owner, it's your responsibility to implement the proper safety precautions for anyone who enters your building, employees and customers alike. An adequately stocked emergency first aid kit is the foundation of any commercial establishment's safety measures. Continue reading to see whether your building in Rio Verde, AZ, is prepared to handle severe storms, flooding, or other types of emergencies.

Minimum Mandatory Requirements

The United States Department of Labor's Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has provided clear guidelines highlighting the minimum required supplies that a first aid kit is required to contain. These minimum mandatory supplies are as follows:

Two sets of different sized gauze pads (4x4 inches and 8x10 inches, respectively)
At least one package of gauze roller bandage, minimum 2 inches wide
A box of band-aids or other approved adhesive bandages, including at least two triangular-shaped bandages
Tweezers
Scissors
Properly sealed moist towelettes, or other approved wound cleaning agents
One blanket, minimum
At least one pair of latex gloves
At least one roll of adhesive tape
Equipment to revive an unconscious person(s), such as a resuscitation airway, bag or pocket mask
Two elastic wraps, minimum
At least one splint
Thorough instructions that can direct a person(s) to request additional emergency assistance

The items listed above are appropriate for a small workplace environment's emergency kit (i.e. two to three employees). If your workplace hosts more employees, then OSHA requires that you provide additional first aid kits in order to accommodate all additional employees. Alternatively, you could increase the number of supplies in each kit so that the kits can serve more than three employees.
Emergency safety care is incredibly important in commercial places of business. In case of an emergency, personal property or other physical items can always be replaced, while human lives cannot. Providing an adequately stocked first aid kit or kits could mean the difference between life and death in the event of a severe storm, flood, or other types of disaster. Contact your local storm remediation experts if you require more information regarding emergency weather protocol.

The Top 4 Causes of Commercial Water Damage Problems

8/15/2020 (Permalink)

Top Four Causes of Water Damage in Commercial Buildings

Dealing with water damage in your commercial building due to a broken pipe or another common reason can be stressful, especially if you have to close your business down to make repairs. Fortunately, a water damage cleanup company near you in North Scottsdale, AZ, can help repair any damage that has occurred to your business and restore your personal belongings or business assets that were affected. Watch out for these top four causes of water damage in commercial buildings.

1. Broken Pipe

Plumbing systems are susceptible to damage due to the fact they carry large amounts of water throughout a building every day. Flooding can occur if a pipe bursts or damage may happen over time if a small leak goes undetected.

2. Fire Sprinkler Malfunction

While fire sprinklers can help keep your building and everyone inside it safe if a fire occurs, they can cause a lot of damage if they go off unexpectedly. The best way to prevent a malfunction is to ensure your system is regularly inspected and maintained.

3. Sewer or Toilet Backup

A sewer or toilet backup due to improper disposal of paper products, tree roots in service pipes, or other common issues requires prompt action by a water repair company. Since this water will likely contain contaminants, you will need to evacuate the building until the area is completely cleaned.

4. Supply Line Break

The supply lines that are responsible for carrying water to appliances in your building can leak or burst causing flooding and damage to the interior. It is important to check these supply lines consistently and make sure they are made from high-quality materials such as braided steel.
No business owner hopes to discover water damage in their building due to a broken pipe, fire sprinkler, sewer back up, or broken supply line. Knowing these common causes of commercial water damage can help you prevent disasters or know how to act if an accident ever occurs.

Flood Safety Tips

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Start gathering an emergency supplies kit

Each year flooding causes numerous deaths after storms in Rio Verde, AZ. One of the most common causes of death includes driving vehicles into flooded areas. Reading up on flood safety techniques can help you and your family stay safe during a storm. Read on to know some of the most popular safety tips for during and after flooding.

During a Flood Watch or Warning

During a flood watch or warning, you will want to start gathering an emergency supplies kit. This kit should include items such as:

• A radio or cell phone
  
• Immunizations records
  
• Food and snacks
  
• At least one gallon of water per person
  
  

Once you have gathered your kit, listen to the radio or keep close tabs on the weather app on your cell phone. This will allow you to stay updated on the storm and flooding dangers. Then, bring in or thoroughly secure outdoor possessions, such as lawn chairs and grills. If evacuation is recommended, be sure to cut off all utilities including power and water before leaving. As you leave, do not drive through any flooded streets, even if you think it is shallow.

After Flooding Occurs
Even after the storm has passed, it is important to continue thinking about flood safety. In particular, you do not want to drive across any flooded streets, no matter how shallow. Only a few inches of water can cause you to lose control of your car. Furthermore, you should not drink, wash in, or cook with any of the floodwaters as they can carry infectious diseases.
Always think about flood safety for yourself and your family during and after a major storm where rising water levels are possible. However, the initial damage caused by a storm is not the only reason flooding is dangerous. After the storm has passed, you can face issues that require restoration and cleanup professionals to help you remedy.

How To Control Mildew in Your Bathroom

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

A dehumidifier can be an effective solution to remove excess humidity

Steps To Reduce Mold and Mildew Formation

Every home in North Scottsdale, AZ, must contend with some degree of bathroom mildew. Steam and running water combined with poor ventilation can contribute to a chronic humidity problem, leading to mildew on the following:

• Tiles
  
• Walls
  
• Ceilings
  
• Grout
  
• Shower curtains
  
  

Mold remediation professionals recommend taking these steps to help control humidity and reduce mold and mildew formation:

Ventilate
Proper ventilation prevents water particles in steam from clinging to surfaces where they would otherwise remain. With no place to go, they can develop mildew. Keeping a bathroom door open to allow water-carrying steam to escape is adviseable. Still, the best solution is an exhaust fan that effectively draws steam out of the bathroom.

Clean Grout
Grout is porous and susceptible to water absorption. Water trapped in small grout-filled crevices is slow to evaporate, making the spaces susceptible to bathroom mildew. It is necessary to clean grout thoroughly before mildew settles and spreads, making it harder to remove.

Dehumidify
If your house is old and not equipped with an exhaust fan, a dehumidifier can be an effective solution to remove excess humidity. Position a unit outside the bathroom door and turn it on after running a hot shower.

Wipe Down Accessories
Mildew can accumulate on any surface, including items placed on shelves, sinks and bathtub ledges. If these objects are allowed to sit where water has pooled, mildew can form beneath them and spread. Wiping shampoo bottles and bath pillows and other accessories help keep them clean and mildew-free.

Wipe Down Walls
Wet shower walls and floors are unavoidable. People often turn off the water and wonder why mildew still accumulates. If water does not evaporate quickly enough, it remains on these hard surfaces, causing mildew or mold. A squeegee can quickly dry these surfaces that would otherwise remain wet.
Bathroom mildew and mold can be found in just about any home. If you need help controlling it, speak with a professional.

Understanding How a Fire Can Affect Your Building's Roof

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

Roof collapsed due to fire damage in a building in Scottsdale, AZ

If a fire in your business in Scottsdale, AZ  has caused extensive damage to the roof of your building in Scottsdale, AZ, immediate action must be taken to keep everyone safe and to prevent further damage to your building and everyone inside. While any harm caused by a fire required professional attention, structural damage to your building creates a hazardous situation for anyone located nearby and should be addressed by a fire cleanup specialist who can take the right steps to create a secure environment and mitigate the damage.

How a Fire Can Damage Your Building’s Roof

There are several factors that can cause extensive damage to your roof, causing roofing materials to warp due to heat or leading to large holes. Smoke, soot, extreme heat, and flames can all cause harm, requiring the need for either a roof repair or a complete replacement. In more severe fires, it is also common for firefighters to create a hole in the roof to help ventilate the building.

What To Do If Your Roof Is Damaged
After a fire, if you observe obvious damage to your building’s roof, take the following steps right away:

Evacuate: In case pieces of debris fall or the entire roof collapses, make sure everyone gets out of the building and no one returns until a fire cleanup professional says it is safe to do so.
Call for Help: Lingering smoke, soot, and water damage can take an already bad situation and make it increasingly worse. In the case of a damaged roof, tarp services are needed before any repairs can be made.
Contact Your Insurance: As soon as you know help is on the way, call your insurance company to receive further instructions and learn what remediation services are covered.

While a burnt roof can be a scary situation for business owners, a fire cleanup crew can secure your roof and help make your building like new again. Always be cautious in this situation and place the safety of you, your staff, and your customers first.

Sewage Process Removal and Restoration

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Sewage backup is contaminated with biological viruses and bacteria

Sewage Process Removal and Restoration

Most businesses dread the day they need a disaster restoration company in Rio Verde, AZ, to salvage their business, but they are always happy to see them when they arrive. A sewer cleanup is never a fun experience, and if you do not have the skillset to mitigate the problem, you should always trust the professionals. The process they use is straightforward and reliable.

Removing waste
Cleaning out debris
Drying out the area
Cleaning and disinfecting
Restoring the site

Removing Waste
The first part of the removal process is to eliminate the contents of the sewer backup from the premises. A restoration crew will have specialized equipment and trucks to suck up the wastewater from your property, allowing them to transport it to offsite hazardous waste facilities.

Cleaning Out Debris
With the wastewater removed, the company can begin cleaning out the affected area. Most contaminated items will need to be discarded, but some nonporous items may be salvaged. The restoration crew can walk you through their decision process.

Drying Out the Area
Once the waste is removed, the team will probably start focusing on the drying phase of the sewer cleanup. They will bring in dehumidifiers and fans to speed up to process, but depending on the moisture level, the process can take several days.

Cleaning and Disinfecting
Once everything is dried thoroughly, the company can begin the cleaning and disinfecting process. Using reliable commercial cleaners, they will bleach and wipe down every surface that came into contact with raw sewage. The restoration crew will also spend significant time trying to deodorize your business.

Restoring the Site
Whether the damage is from a flooded toilet or broken main, once the site is clean and disinfected, the company can begin the restoration process. They will restore building materials and structural aspects of your business. When the job is complete, the site should look like predisaster conditions.
While no company wants to experience a sewage disaster, they are always happy to have the help of a knowledgeable service like SERVPRO for the sewer cleanup. If you are ever in need of commercial advice, contact the restoration experts at SERVPRO.

Understand the Different Categories of Water

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water Categories

Below are The Three Categories of Water

Any kind of water damage in you Scottsdale, AZ, requires immediate attention. If the issue isn’t properly addressed and corrected, the damage can spread to other areas of the home. When excess water is detected, the initial response is often to jump in and begin the cleanup. Although cleanup needs to happen fast, understanding the type of water you are facing is an important safety factor to consider. Depending on the cause, it may be contaminated water that is harmful if not approached with caution and proper safety gear. Below are the three categories of water.

1. Clean Water
Although no water damage would be preferred, category 1 is the best kind to have. Considered clean water, it is often caused by issues such as a broken supply line to sinks, bathtubs, and appliances. It is considered clean because it contains no sewage, chemicals, or toxins, which means it requires no additional safety considerations. If it has sat for too long, it can evolve into the second category.

2. Grey Water
Category 2 is considered contaminated water. Known as greywater, it contains minimal amounts of microorganisms and chemicals that could potentially be harmful to humans and animals if ingested. Sources of this type may include washing machines, toilets without waste, and bathtubs. Similar to the first category, if not addressed within 48 hours, it may turn into a more hazardous water problem.

3. Black Water
Categorized as the most harmful type of water, black water often contains sewage, microorganisms, pathogens, and other contaminants. Once this enters the home, it can damage much more than the surrounding area. Many belongings that come in contact with black water may have to be thrown away. Cleaning up black water requires numerous safety precautions. It can also stay hidden, so it is best to contact a water remediation and restoration expert to properly handle the mess.
Before taking steps to start the water damage cleanup process, ensure you know what you are dealing with. Contaminated water can be harmful to humans and pets, so it’s best left to the experts for cleanup.

Types of Smoke Detectors and Where to Put Them

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

This type of smoke alarm quickly takes flaming fires

A small fire can quickly grow and spread, making it vital to be alerted to the problem as quickly as possible. Protecting your family and North Scottsdale, AZ, home means ensuring you have the right type of smoke alarm in the right location. As the first line of defense regarding fire safety, it is important to understand alarm basics.

Types of Alarms

There are different kinds of fires, which means you may need a different type of smoke detector in certain areas of the home.

Ionization: This type quickly takes flaming fires. A minute amount of radioactive material sits between two electrically charged plates. This creates a current between the plates. If smoke enters it, the electric flow is disrupted, which activates the alarm. Since these are sensitive to smoke, that can be accidentally set off if placed while cooking.
Photoelectric: Best-suited for smoldering fires, they have a sensing chamber that has a light source aimed away from the actual sensors. Once smoke enters the chamber, light is reflected and triggers the alarm. These more quickly detect smoke, making them suitable for kitchen placement.
Combination: Some alarms are available that feature both technologies, which makes them a great choice for bedrooms.
Smart Alarms: Technology has allowed for the three types of alarms to be interconnected and easily accessed through an app, along with other high-tech perks.

Alarm Placement
So, where should a smoke alarm be placed? It is recommended that one be located on each floor of the home, as well as inside each bedroom. There should also be one in the attic, basement, and garage. They should be at least 10 feet from cooking appliances, as well as away from windows, doors, and air ducts. The size of your home should also be considered. In general, a smoke alarm covers a radius of 21 feet and approximately 1,385 square feet.
When an emergency arises, quick action and detection is imperative for everyone’s safety. Ensuring you have a smoke alarm in recommended locations boosts the safety factor. Once everyone is safe, you can leave the property damage to a fire and smoke restoration expert.

What to Know About Salvaging Belongings After a Fire

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

House fires can be devastating. Not only do you have to deal with the fire damage, but many possessions and furniture can be ruined by soot and smoke. Luckily, dry-cleaning, as well as other types of cleaning methods, can restore many of your belongings.

A few things to know about the content cleaning process.

Damaged Content Must Be Thoroughly Cleaned

Soot can be toxic and harm your respiratory system, if inhaled. Other materials that are exposed to flames can release harmful chemicals into the air that can be detrimental to your health. So, don’t just throw soot-covered clothing into the washing machine. Clothing and other possessions must be treated properly to eliminate all soot and smoke. It’s best to go to professionals who can help you by dry-cleaning or properly washing your valuables.

Act Quickly

Smoke can cause permanent damage to valuables in as soon as 24 hours. If you have items of sentimental value, you should get those cleaned and restored as soon as possible to reduce the amount of damage. Documenting and cataloging everything that was damaged can help you prioritize valuables and get them cleaned quickly. Then, you can take care of content storage at the same time.

Proceed Wisely

After such a disaster has occurred, you might feel the need to help professionals in Scottsdale, AZ in any way possible.

Some steps you can take might include:

* Giving the experts any information that they might need

* Ventilating your home

* Covering soot-free carpets or furniture with plastic to prevent damage during the restoration process

House fires are scary, but the fire damage and content cleaning can be taken care of when you have the right information and expert help available. Valuables and belongings can be repaired through dry-cleaning, vacuuming, and professional restoration. By being aware of what needs to be done, you can salvage many of your possessions. 

Mitigating Loss After a Significant Toilet Flood

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Toilet flooding in North Scottsdale, AZ

Mitigating Loss After a Significant Toilet Flood

One of the most common problems stemming from sewer damage in commercial plumbing is a flooded toilet. Unfortunately, when you don't catch an overflowing toilet immediately, it can flood multiple floors, causing significant property loss. Most water damage experts in North Scottsdale, AZ, will work in the following order to restore the building.

• Assess flooring
• Remove ceiling tiles
• Discard wet materials
• Clean and disinfect
• Repair damage
  

Assess Flooring
Flooring is often the most significant concern for property owners because of the expense to replace it. Depending on the material and the time spent submerged, salvaging may be possible. However, with most laminates or hardwoods, you will need to replace the damaged section.

Remove Ceiling Tiles
Many commercial facilities have drop ceilings with tiles made of gypsum. Unfortunately, gypsum stains easily, meaning you may have to replace several tiles. However, if the leak is small, you may get away with only replacing a single tile, rather than an entire section.

Discard Wet Materials
Depending on the structural elements between floors in your building, you may have insulation and ductwork to deal with. If the water damage is significant, you will probably need to replace these materials. If the water is contaminated from sewer damage, replace any contaminated materials.

Clean and Disinfect
A mitigation company will follow any cleanout with a cleanup. During this process, the company will disinfect every contaminated surface, reducing and eliminating the spread and threat of bacteria before moving onto the restoration of the property.

Repair Damage
Finally, you and the restoration crew, working in tandem with a sewage company, can repair your building. Before the restoration company finishes your project, they will ensure everything is structurally sound and in working order.
Sewer damage resulting in a significant toilet flood can lead to costly repairs. If you are in the midst of such a disaster, consider hiring a restoration and mitigation service.

Proactive Steps You Can Take for Mold Prevention

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth in Rio Verde, AZ

Proactive Steps You Can Take for Mold Prevention

Mold is one of those building hazards that is so resilient and can be so sneaky, that it may be tempting to overlook it or delay its remediation. Don't follow this impulse. While common, mold growth poses a host of serious issues for building owners, including:

• eating away at building materials, causing
• widespread property damage
• negatively impacting air quality due to
• constant spore production and distribution
• spreading incredibly quickly
  

The simplest way to deal with mold is prevention, so it'd be wise to spend some time implementing mold resistance measures in your building.

Tips for Increasing Mold Resistance
First off, watch out for water damage in your building. This is the number one entry point for mold in commercial spaces. Take care of any leaks quickly, clean them, and dry the area thoroughly. Also, incorporate prevention strategies to decrease the likelihood of mold growth via water damage: watch for areas with consistent condensation, waterproof what you can, and be mindful of exterior risks. Exterior considerations would include gutters and elevation features near your building that may encourage standing water.
Additionally, you should decrease humidity in your space. Think about good airflow and ventilation. HVAC can lower humidity and increase good airflow simultaneously. If an option, fresh air is excellent for mold prevention, too.

What to Do If You Suspect Mold

If you know of water damage in your building, you can always get the space tested for mold by an indoor environmental professional in Rio Verde, AZ. These professionals have different types of advanced technology that can detect mold at all the different levels it could be on, whether the mold is visible or not. If you know exactly where the mold is, do what you can to stop any water issue happening there, get a dehumidifier in the space, and contact a professional mold remediation crew.
Mold growth is pervasive and a hassle to remediate. But with proper prevention strategies, you can significantly diminish the mold risk in your building.

4 Tips To Keep You Safe During a Flood

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Create a flood safety plan

Make Sure You Are Prepared

Battling a flood in your home in Scottsdale,AZ, may seem like a scary situation, but it does not have to be. Make sure you are prepared by following these safety tips.
1. Create a Plan
Before a flood is even imminent, you should have a flood safety plan in place to keep your family, any animals, and your home out of harm's way as much as possible. This plan should include how to escape the house if you need to, where pets should be kept, how to create a barrier around your home, and how to create an emergency kit for all family members.
2. Charge Up
Having batteries on hand is essential. In case there is a power outage due to the flooding, you can use the batteries for flashlights and a radio to stay on top of what is going on in your area. For flood safety, make sure cell phones and tablets are fully charged in case you need to get in touch with emergency personnel. You might also want to consider a portable power bank that will allow you to charge your phone multiple times.
3. Move to a Higher Location
If your place is more than one story, move your family up to another floor. This can be helpful since floodwater could enter the home. It would also be a good idea to move any valuables from the lower level to avoid flood damage.
4. Get Help With Cleaning
Cleaning up after a flood will be a major priority, and you might need help from a professional cleaning company. This type of organization can help with assessment, water damage, cleanup, mold remediation, and odor removal.
You can make sure you are ready for a flood by following safety tips. You can do this by creating a flood safety plan, charging cell phones and having batteries, moving to higher ground, and getting help for flood cleanup.

Interruption Insurance for Your Business

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

Business interruption insurance can help your company financially

A fire at your Rio Verde, AZ, business can cause major damage and disrupt your operations for some time. Fortunately, interruption insurance, also called income insurance, can help get you through by covering many of your normal expenses and lost income.

What is Covered?

Due to lost revenue, some businesses permanently shut down after a fire. Income insurance will cover many of the necessary costs of running the business, such as:

• Payroll
  
• Taxes
  
• Fixed expenses, such as loan payments
  
• Temporary relocation expenses
  
  

Make sure to discuss your policy with your insurance agent. Know exactly what is and is not covered, and make sure your coverage limits are high enough.

What are the Insured's Responsibilities?
The insurance company is obligated to fulfill their part of their interruption insurance contract, i.e., covering your operating expenses and lost income after a fire or other disaster. However, there are often provisions in the contract explaining the responsibilities of the policyholder. It is best to speak with your insurance agent regarding such provisions. The insured is generally responsible for preventing further damage to the property during the period of business interruption. This means tarping over or boarding up damaged areas of the structure to keep out wildlife and vandals. In some cases, it may be necessary to install a security fence to deter unwanted visitors. It is also the business owner's responsibility to get the fire restoration process started quickly. Water left over from the extinguishing efforts can foster mold growth in as few as 24 hours. If the water is left for too long, the insurance company may not cover the mold damage. The restoration process should also be finished within a reasonable amount of time. Talk to your agent to discuss a time frame if one is not listed in the policy. If you do not meet this deadline, you might not get your business reopened before the coverage expires.
Although interruption insurance can help your company financially, a certified restoration service can take care of your fire-damaged property. They can help you get your business back to normal quickly and safely.

What To Know About Business Interruption Insurance

4/11/2020 (Permalink)

Business interruption insurance can help your company

What To Know About Business Interruption Insurance

As you prepare for an impending storm, you must make sure your fire, wind and flood insurance are up to date. These policies can help you rebuild following a disaster in North Scottsdale, AZ. Yet there is another type of insurance that is just as important.
Business interruption insurance, also called business income insurance, helps support your company financially following an emergency. While regular insurance coverage protects any damaged assets, income insurance protects the business itself. As with traditional insurance, business income insurance covers a variety of perils, including:

• Wind
• Theft
• Fire
• Lightning
• Falling objects

Lost Income

Business interruption insurance can help your company in two ways. The insurer will give you the same amount of money you would have earned had the disaster not occurred. It will determine this amount based on your financial records. The insurance will also cover operating expenses such as electricity —even if your office space temporarily closes after the storm.

Extra Expenses

Business income insurance additionally helps pay for any new expenses you incur to avoid shutting down after the storm. For instance, if you have to rent additional office space so your employees can keep working during the rebuild, insurance may cover this cost.

Length and Cost of Coverage

Your business income insurance typically goes into effect two to three days after the emergency. However, the coverage can last for months and may even support your business for a full year. Make sure that your insurance limit is sufficient to last for that extended period of time.
Typically, the cost of this coverage will vary based on the type of business you have. For instance, restaurants may have to pay more for business income insurance since they are at a higher risk of fire.
Business income insurance can make a post-storm rebuild less painful. As emergency restoration professionals clean up the premises, your company can continue to receive needed funds. You thus should not have to worry about a closed business.

What You Should Know About Professional Water Damage Restoration

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Water restoration in a business

What You Should Know About Professional Water Damage Restoration

Few household accidents are as dreadful as a flooded home or water damage. Water in home or water in business can occur from sources such as a pipe break, a supply line break and flood damage. When you are faced with water damage in the home, the steps that you follow in resolving the problem determine the extent of the damage that will occur and the time it will take to restore the building to its original state. Below are a few of the things that each homeowner needs to know about flood damage mitigation and restoration in both the home and business premises.

What to do after the supply line break and water damage

The first step you are supposed to take immediately after you realize there has been water in home or water in business damage is contacting a professional water damage restoration company. The companies understand the importance of timely response to pipe break, water and flood damage calls and will be there within hours of contact. In the meantime, you can take steps such as evacuating everyone from the flooded home. Trying to remove items such as furniture is not recommended as it could expose you and others to risks such as drowning, contamination and in some cases even electrocution.

What the water damage restoration company does

As soon as they arrive on the scene, they will evaluate the extent of flooding water in home. They will then proceed to look for the cause of the flooded home. In case a supply line break is the cause, they will turn the water off at the street level. If a pipe break is the problem, they will seal it off before they do water cleanup. Electricity disconnection to reduce the risk of electrocution follows. Any loose items such as furniture in the home are removed to allow easier access to all corners of the building and ease restoration.

The company then moves in with suction pipes and vacuums to do water cleanup for all the water in home. The suction is done as soon as possible after the first contact to minimize the extent of the damage. The mitigation and restoration company then uses various drying techniques to dehumidify the home and ensure all traces of moisture have been removed. Drying is done to ensure that moisture remnants do not lead to the growth of mold or further rot of wooden structures or rusting of metallic structures. All the furniture and upholstery will be cleaned and deodorized to remove any odors that could have been left behind.

After water cleanup and all the internal structures have been dried up, the restoration process starts. The amount of repair that will be done will depend on the extent of the flood damage. It can be as little as repainting a few rooms, or as extensive as rebuilding entire walls. You as the building owner should be financially ready to cater for these repairs that result from water in business or home.

Why choice of a water cleanup and mitigation company matters

There are many reasons to be careful about the restoration company you pick to handle flood in home for you. First, note that water damage needs to be resolved as soon as it is discovered. A sluggish service provider will let the water stagnate for days, compromising the structural integrity of the entire building. The quality of the cleanup, drying and repair also matters. When done shoddily, moisture will remain, leading to mold damage, rotting and rusting of the interior structures in the home.

These are some of the things you need to know about the entire process of cleanup, drying and restoration. You need to have the contacts of a reliable remediation company to help you as soon as you realize you have a problem such as a flooded home or water in business. Your safety and the well-being of your loved one after a supply line break, pipe break or flood damage incident, therefore, depends on the professionals you choose to fix the problem. The durability of your building will also be dependent on the quality of the mitigation job that the restoration company does. Take time and choose a company which has positive reviews and a track record of success.

3 Tips for Avoiding Mold From Your Swamp Cooler

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

A leaking swamp cooler can cause even more problems

3 Tips for Avoiding Mold From Your Swamp Cooler

Swamp coolers are popular in warm climates because they use less electricity than central air conditioning. A common problem with swamp coolers, however, is an increased chance of mold. A lot of moisture accumulates when the cooler is running, which can increase the humidity level of your home in Scottsdale, AZ. A leaking swamp cooler can cause even more problems. Here are three tips for keeping mold out of your home if you use a swamp cooler.

1. Clean Regularly

Mold requires both moisture and organic matter to thrive. Mold growth often occurs when parts of the swamp cooler get dirty. Clean every part of your cooler frequently to ensure that dirt doesn't accumulate. As cellulose pads get older and worn out, they can become breeding grounds for mold spores, so they need to be replaced periodically. It's also smart to have your air ducts cleaned, especially if you smell a musty odor. Mold remediation experts can mitigate the mold problem in your home.

2. Increase Air Flow

It may seem counter-productive to run the air conditioner and open the window at the same time. A leaking swamp cooler, though, may be blowing more than cool air into your home. By cracking a few windows throughout the house, you let the air circulate better, keeping any mold spores in the air on the move. This habit also lowers the overall humidity of your home, which helps fight mold growth, too.

3. Maintain Cooler

Proper maintenance is important for any household appliance. In the case of your swamp cooler, regular maintenance by a qualified professional can help you avoid leaks and mold. Each maintenance visit is a chance to ensure it's working properly so that it can cool efficiently without diminishing air quality.
A leaking swamp cooler can cause mold problems in your home. With frequent cleaning and maintenance as well as consistent airflow throughout your house, you can lower the chances that mold growth will occur.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help- give us a call for your commercial cleaning!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need 

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. 

Specialized Training 

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis. 

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include: 

• Kitchen/Food Areas 
• Bathrooms 
• Schools/Classrooms 
• Offices 
• Retail Spaces 
• Water Fountains 
• Shelving/Racks 
• Sales Counters 
• Carpets and Rugs 
• Stair Handrails 
• Elevator Cars 
• Playground Equipment 
• Fitness Equipment 

Specialized Products 

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities. 

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning 

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Scottsdale-(480) 998-7989.

5 Ways to Prevent Freezing Pipes

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Insulating the pipes is an ideal way to avoid a burst pipe

Five Tips To Reduce The Potential For A Pipe To Burst

Flooding is often associated with rain and snow melting. If a business owner in Rio Verde, AZ, enters their property and sees high waters but the sun is shining and the weather has been dry, the culprit is likely a burst pipe. While water pressure, corrosion and moving pipes can be the cause of unexplained standing water or leaking, a frozen pipe is often the cause. Once it bursts, it can lead to extensive water damage and mold growth Below are five tips to reduce the potential for a pipe to burst when the temperatures dip.

1. Run Water
Keeping a faucet running ensures that there is constant movement and keeps the pressure in pipes low, thus reducing the change for the system to freeze.

2. Increase Warm Air Flow
Since pipes are typically near an exterior wall or window, air leaking in can counter the heating system. Inspect the area for any drafts and seal any leaks to ensure the temperature doesn’t dip below 32 degrees near water lines. Additional places to check for draft includes near vents and electrical wiring.

3. Let Faucets Breathe
If the location of the bathroom or kitchen of a property is on an exterior wall, the faucet’s plumbing could also be affected. Leaving a cabinet door open can help keep warm air flowing.

4. Check Outdoor Faucets
Depending on the property and landscaping needs, keeping a hose attached can make water plants or grass easy. When the weather cools, sprinkler systems should be shut off and hoses should be removed from the faucet.

5. Enhance Insulation
Especially in older buildings, the main pipes can be old and located in cold areas. Insulating the pipes is an ideal way to avoid a burst pipe. Heat tape is also available the helps the pipes stay warm, as well as thermostatically controlled heat cables.
In some cases, when age and corrosion are factors, a burst pipe may be inevitable. When cold weather hits, take a few precautions can help provide peace of mind that water damage won’t be an issue.

What Happens To Your Home’s Contents After a Fire

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen cabinet fire loss in North Scottsdale, AZ

When a family suffers the trauma of a home fire, life can feel very chaotic. The sense of urgency and danger may soon give way to despair and concern as you see the burned and water ravaged interior of your once clean and organized home. What will become of all of you belongings? Will life ever be the same? From dry-cleaning to disinfecting, there may be hope for many of the items damaged.

How Can Your Contents be Saved?

Along with fire and water damage, you may notice a good deal of smoke odor and sooty residue. There are experts in fire and water salvage and restoration in North Scottsdale, AZ, that can help you sort through and rescue whatever can be cleaned. The following may explain better how this is done.

Many fabrics, such as clothing, curtains, etc., can be salvaged through dry-cleaning, which contains solvents that can remove stains and odor
Non-porous items may be cleaned and disinfected if they are not melted or significantly damaged by the heat
Electronics exposed only to smoke may possibly be cleaned and repaired

Upholstered furnishings, carpets and other porous and items that cannot be dry-cleaned may need to be discarded and replaced. Decisions will need to be made on a case-by-case basis. All contents possible will be salvaged. It is likely that many structural materials will need to be replaced.

What Happens to Items That Have Been Cleaned?
Once content cleaning has been undergone, the items can be put into content storage while the home repairs are taking place. This allows items that have been cleaned and disinfected to be placed where they can be free from re-contamination. This may be a gradual process, but it gives a safe and secure location for your possessions until your home is livable again.
A house fire is never a pleasant experience and can leave people quite unsettled. It might provide some comfort to displaced family members, however to know that through dry-cleaning and other processes, many of their items could be saved.

My Basement’s Flooded! What Now?

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

A basement flood can result in large cleanup and restoration bills

Ways To Get Your Home Back To Pre-Loss Condition

Discovering a basement flood at your Scottsdale, AZ, home can be an anxiety-provoking experience. Where do you even start the cleanup process? Take these steps for the easiest way to get your home back to its preloss condition:

1. Practice Caution

First and foremost, make sure that it’s safe to step into the basement. If there are electrical appliances, or if the water has risen above the electrical outlets, it isn’t safe to even touch the water; an electrical current will be traveling through the water. Cut the power off at the main breaker if you can safely reach it.

2. Investigate for Water Source

There are numerous possible causes of excessive water in the basement. The source may not be immediately apparent; it could be a burst pipe, heavy rainfall, foundation cracks or a sewer backup.

3. Dry Affected Area

A wet/dry vacuum comes in very useful for removing standing water and small bits of debris. Once the standing water is eliminated, open windows and doors and run fans. Dehumidifiers can also be a valuable resource to use for a basement flood since basements are often poorly ventilated.

4. Discard Unsalvageable Materials

There will probably be materials that you wouldn’t expect to be deemed unsalvageable from a flooded basement. These could include drywall, carpet, wooden furniture and other porous materials. Any porous items that can’t be fully dried within 48 hours usually need to be discarded as it’s likely mold has already begun to grow.

5. Contact Professionals

Water damage cleanup professionals will need to come to clean up and restore the major damage. Mold can begin to grow within 24 hours of the introduction to moisture. The professionals will make sure everything is dried and cleaned thoroughly and will return your home to its preloss condition.
A basement flood can result in large cleanup and restoration bills. Be sure to contact your insurance company to determine the extent of your insurance coverage.

When You Need To Call Restoration Experts

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Water restoration cleanup in Rio Verde, AZ

When You Need To Call Restoration Experts

You may think that you can handle a pipe burst cleanup yourself. However, even a small flood can cause a lot of damage, especially if your belongings are not dried properly. That is why you should enlist the assistance of a water restoration company.
Water restoration businesses don’t just dry wet items in your Rio Verde, AZ, building. Professionals from these establishments can also remove sewage or mold. Experts can even find and address larger issues within the property before they cause more severe damage.
Cleanup specialists additionally have the proper training and equipment to do the job safely. If you attempt to restore the property on your own, you could put yourself, your employees and your building at risk for further harm. Instead, contact professionals when you see potential signs of water problems, including:

• Floor damage
  
• Mold
  
• Wall damage
  
  

Damage Prevention

Even if you don’t have of these problems yet, you can still use pipe burst cleanup specialists to prevent possible damage. These experts will be able to find warning signs such as corrosion or condensation on the pipes. The professionals can then address the situation before it causes a major incident.

Emergencies

When you see a broken pipe or another water disaster, you need to call the professionals immediately. If you wait too long, mold will start to grow. This could cause even more damage and cost more money to fix.
A sewer cleanup company can help if there is a major toilet overflow or a septic problem. You should not attempt to fix these potentially dangerous situations yourself. Instead, your priority should be getting yourself and your employees out of the building. The same is true when there is obvious mold growth or when electrical wires may be exposed to the water.
Any major pipe burst cleanup should be handled by professionals. They can keep you and your employees safe while restoring wet items and preventing further damage.

How to Know if a Business’s Water Is Contaminated

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

Call a commercial building restoration specialists immediately if you are dealing with contaminated water

Things You Need to Know About Water Contamination

Contaminated water in a commercial setting can occur due to a variety of factors. Whether there has been a flood or a burst pipe, black water is never a pleasant sight for business owners. Fortunately, the professionals at SERVPRO have the experience and expertise that insurance agents and adjusters are looking for. To ensure that these restoration specialists address your needs properly, here is everything you need to know about water contamination that targets businesses in North Scottsdale, AZ.

Traces of Sediment

In some cases, determining whether water is contaminated is as simple as observing its appearance. If there are traces of sediment in the liquid, it has likely become polluted in some way. Be sure to look for the following signs of sediment when inspecting potentially contaminated water:

• Dirt
  
• Sand
  
• Clay
  
• Sewage or waste
  
  

If you notice any indications of black water, be sure to call SERVPRO professionals immediately. This type of water can cause severe damage to a business, especially if it isn’t removed right away.

Unpleasant Smell

To determine whether the water in a business is contaminated, it’s often helpful to use your senses. A strong and unpleasant smell that comes from floodwater or a broken supply line likely points to water that has become polluted at some point. If this is the case, be sure to request professional assistance as soon as possible. Water that has begun to emit an unfavorable scent may have already accumulated various forms of dirt or sewage that can lead to serious forms of water damage if left untreated.
If a business is dealing with contaminated water, calling commercial building restoration specialists immediately is crucial to the safety of the company. Thanks to the highly effective methods and solutions that the experts at SERVPRO utilize, insurance agencies all over the country confidently turn to them as their preferred vendor in any disaster.

What You Need To Know About Mold Toxicity

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Mycotoxin is a scary word, and mold is nothing to be taken lightly, but in most cases, the situation can be cleaned up

When dealing with mold in a business, it's smart to cut right to the chase: are molds toxic? After all, molds are a type of fungi, part of the group including yeast, mildew and mushrooms, and everyone knows that mushrooms can be deadly. A mycotoxin is a special type of mold that can be found in association with foods.

How To Identify Mold

Most people know mold when they see it. It is usually a dark or green blotch found growing on a bathroom wall or ceiling. It can be identified by some of the following characteristics:

• It exudes a musty odor
• It grows in a damp, moist environment
• It forms colonies that grow in irregular patterns

Mold is formed by microscopic spores, and it is a naturally occurring organism. A mycotoxin will not necessarily be present with most molds, but it is a good idea to get things checked out quickly. A mold mitigation team in Scottsdale, AZ, can arrive on the scene and do an inspection and damage assessment. This can tell you what type of mold is present and what steps to take to remove it.

How To Clean Mold

Proper mold remediation is the key to the removal of excess amounts of mold at a business. This often involves finding a water source such as a leaking roof or a broken pipe. Mold thrives in high humidity. Once the moisture has been removed, the mold can be cleaned up with a variety of advanced procedures. Mycotoxin is a scary word, and mold is nothing to be taken lightly, but in most cases, the situation can be cleaned up "Like it never even happened."

How To Choose the Best Fire Insurance Protection for Your Business

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Rio Verde, AZ

Fires can be so destructive because even a small fire can cause extensive smoke damage to equipment, inventory and other property. While it may be hard to imagine facing fire damage at your Rio Verde, AZ, place of business, it’s important to protect yourself with adequate property insurance.
Fire coverage is generally part of your basic commercial insurance policy. Choosing the right level of coverage is essential. If you do have a fire, you’ll want to focus on the cleanup and restoration, not on the fear of devastating financial consequences.

3 Levels of Fire Coverage

Three forms of fire coverage are available to business owners. The causes and the types of damage covered vary between the levels.

Basic Form – This most basic level contains a specific, short list of covered perils or causes. Examples of perils covered in a basic commercial insurance policy include fires caused by explosions or lightning.
Broad Form – This level covers everything in the basic form and allows for specifying additional perils and secondary damage provisions. Water damage caused by fighting the fire would be an example of an additional Broad Form provision.
Special Form – This is the most expensive and comprehensive level. The only perils not covered will be specifically noted, and anything not mentioned is considered allowable for coverage.

The Best Choice for Your Business

Ideally, you would have Special Form commercial insurance with few exclusions, but the premium cost can be prohibitive for some businesses. A Broad Form policy may be sufficient if it is designed with your risk in mind.
Your structure’s age, hazardous equipment and the presence of tenants are examples of risk factors. Your insurance agent or local fire restoration specialist can help you assess your risk. Then you might choose a Broad Form policy that includes the perils associated with your risk factors.
“Better safe than sorry,” has never been more apropos than with insurance protection for fire damage. Taking the time to assess your risk and choose the best coverage may help you sleep better, knowing you and your property are protected.

3 Ways To Operate Your Business During a Power Outage

12/24/2019 (Permalink)

Power outage in North Scottsdale, AZ

3 Ways To Operate Your Business During a Power Outage

The productivity of your North Scottsdale, AZ  business can suffer if a storm leads to a power outage. Electric energy is essential to activate nearly all devices in the building, and without it, your employees can lose access to work and fall behind strict deadlines. Fortunately, there are alternative options that can allow your workforce to catch up on any assignments with little to no delay.

1. Using Backup Generators

The most common solution to an outage is a portable generator. This device is an electrical generator powered by an engine that can provide the building with enough energy to function for a limited time. Use it to accomplish low-energy tasks and catch up on important work before power returns. Just remember that the generator uses gas like a regular engine, so keep it in a ventilated location and provide proper maintenance to avoid malfunction or fire hazards.

2. Installing UPS

A power outage can be a nasty surprise when you work on a computer, as it can shut it down immediately and damage any unsaved files. Avoid this incident by installing an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) in each business computer. This device provides emergency power drawn from the computers' own batteries. This will give you and the employees enough time to finish work, save files and turn off the devices safely.

3. Finding Wi-Fi Connections

Your Wi-Fi router may shut down after an outage, but there are other ways to use this resource. You can use the company cellphones and data plan to create a hotspot that provides wireless internet. Additionally, the employees' own homes, restaurants and stores can provide free Wi-Fi. Remember to compensate employees for working offsite and use the connection to complete assignments and contact necessary services such as storm cleanup and restoration.
Storms can greatly disrupt your business and create a profit loss. Find the right solution to prevent a power outage from damaging your establishment.

What To Do About Basement Floods

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in Scottsdale, AZ

A basement flood is a major inconvenience. Knowing some common causes of flooded basements can help you prevent this from happening to your Scottsdale,AZ, home.

Why Basements Flood

There are many reasons you may find water in your basement. The following are some of the most common:

• Insufficient sealing
  
• Incorrectly installed downspouts
  
• Poor landscape grading
  
• Leaking water heater
  
• Leaking pipes
  
  

Basements should be properly sealed to keep out moisture. Downspouts should be placed at least five feet from the exterior basement wall and should be directed away from the home. Additionally, the yard should slope downward from the house so that water can flow away. These precautions should prevent water from entering your basement from outdoors. However, water from indoor sources poses just as much risk. Make sure to repair any indoor leaks as soon as possible. If you have a sump pump, perform routine maintenance on it so that it can remove any water before it becomes a problem.

How To Clean a Flooded Basement

If you do experience a basement flood, it is important to clean up the area as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth and structural damage. First, remove the standing water using pumps or a specialized vacuum. Then, you will want to remove all soaked items so that you can address them separately. Make sure not to return these items to the basement until they are fully clean and dry. Next, use fans or a dehumidifier to dry out the rest of the moisture. Depending on the level of contamination in the flood water, you may need to sanitize all the surfaces that came into contact with it.
Precautionary measures go a long way toward preventing a basement flood. However, you may still find water damage in your basement. If you feel overwhelmed by the cleanup process, a certified restoration team can help you get your basement back to pre-flood condition quickly and safely.

3 Ways to Keep Working During a Power Outage

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

A portable generator can be a great investment for your business.

While a storm in Scottsdale, AZ might not always mean disaster, it can sometimes put a hold on your workday. Many tasks require electricity as well as a strong connection to the internet. If there is a power outage in your building, you could call it day, but there are some alternatives you may want to consider first.

1. Use a Generator

Smaller models are generally not made to be run for more than a few hours at a time, but it can help you reach a decent stopping point for your work. It can also give you a chance to save your documents and reduce the risk of losing important information.

2. Find an Alternate Location

Many public places have access to free Wi-Fi, so you could easily move over to a coffee shop with your laptop to get some more work done. However, this is best used as a short-term solution. If you need to continue working for longer periods, you may want to have everyone work from home.

3. Do Offline Work

Another option you have is to simply work without power. If there are tasks that you can do without being connected to the internet or a power source, then you can focus on these until the power outage is over. This allows you to remain productive without having to leave the office in search of another suitable place to work. Once the electricity is back, you can return to work as usual.

If the storm is severe enough to cause a power outage, then it could potentially cause some other problems for your building as well. High winds could loosen roof tiles or shutters, and rain could cause leaks or flooding. If this has happened, a cleanup and restoration service can help. They can perform mitigation and repairs to return your building to its previous condition.

Where Does Mold Grow?

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Inspecting your home frequently can prevent mold damage

Every home is susceptible to mold damage. With plumbing lines running through walls and humidity levels giving way to fogged mirrors, it is surprising that more homeowners don't understand the risk. That is why you should have your home inspected by remediation experts in Scottsdale, AZ, every so often, to ensure that your house is safe. However, if you are not ready to find a professional service, then at least inspect the five most common areas for mold to develop in your home.

Kitchen
Laundry room
Bathroom
Basement
Attic

Kitchen

While it might not seem like the kitchen is a likely place for mold growth, especially since you use this room frequently, think again. Kitchens often have increased moisture in the air because of cooking, and if that moisture is not adequately vented, then you can end up with a mold problem.

Laundry Room

Next place to inspect for mold and mildew growth is your laundry room. The washer and dryer can create an environment for high humidity, which is a direct cause of mold development.

Bathroom

Similar to laundry rooms, a bathroom experiences high humidity and moisture levels in the air while taking baths or showers. Mold damage loves excess moisture. While bathrooms often use mold-resistant building materials, the HVAC and insulation are still susceptible to mold growth.

Basement

Basements are prime environments for mold because they are often poorly ventilated and full of moisture due to mechanical closets and exposed piping. Therefore, it is recommended that dehumidifiers be placed in basements to help reduce the risk of fungal development.

Attic

Last, attics often go unnoticed. While roof vents might help to deter a moisture problem from developing, if there is a hole in the roofline that goes unnoticed, then mold spores can take root and multiply.

Mold damage is a problem that every homeowner needs to be keenly aware of. By inspecting the rooms that are most susceptible and installing prevention measures, like dehumidifiers, you can prevent a possible issue from developing. However, it doesn't hurt to have a professional home assessment either.

How To Put Out a Grease Fire

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Grease fire can spread quickly, keep your stove tops clean

That home-cooked meal may taste good; however, it could put your property at risk, especially during times when oil is involved. After all, when hot, this liquid has the tendency to fly, burning the chef and possibly starting flames. If this happens, you'll need to react quickly and understand appropriate safety protocols. Grease fire, in fact, requires special care; therefore, homeowners in Scottsdale, AZ, should know the proper steps to smother it.

1. Be Prepared

Oil and water don't mix, and this combination does not help put out blaze. Instead, stock your home with a fire extinguisher designed to halt the combustion. Three are three types of devices: A, B and C. Usually level B, contains chemicals to end oil fires. Check the label on the canister, ensuring you have purchased the correct one. Then, locate a spot to store it, thinking about ease of use. You want to be able to grab it quickly. Also, as you cook, think prevention. Don't keep towels or other cloth items within the vicinity of the stove. You don't want sparks to land on it.

2. React Quickly

At the first sign of a problem, seek ways to cut off the oxygen supply. Without the gas, the flames cannot build. Turn off the burner or oven. Then, grab a metal cover and place it on top, hoping to eliminate the situation. Grease fire may also be stopped with baking soda and salt. Be careful with this attempt though. The wrong ingredient could make it worse. If these early attempts fail, try the extinguisher, remembering to pull the pin and aim low, moving it from side to side.

3. Get Help

If you cannot handle the situation, then leave the room and call 911 for help. Next, call a fire restoration company, and have them evaluate kitchen, determining the extent of fire cleanup and needs for repairs. The specialists have equipment to remove smoke and soot, as well as deodorize the room. In addition, they can assist in salvaging some valuables.

Be proactive. Grease fire can spread quickly. Understand what can extinguish the flames and know how to proceed.

How To Handle a Flight Cancelled Due to a Storm

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

What to do if your flight is cancelled?

Air travel is becoming more common than ever for both vacation and business purposes. For the most part flights go smoothly, but every now and again you may experience a canceled due to a disruptive weather system. Sometimes an entire airport is shut down and several flights are canceled or postponed.

What to do if Your Flight is Canceled

If you are already at the airport, call the airline right away and ask for customer assistance, rather than waiting in long lines. Explain your situation and ask for a resolution to your canceled flight.
If you are flying on American, Alaska or United, ask them to honor old rule #240, that requires major airlines must furnish you with a seat on the next flight out, even if it is a competitor.
Keep your cool, especially with airport staff or flight attendants. Many people are likely to have hot tempers, but staff will be more eager to please you if you are kind and appreciative of their efforts and their situation.
Keep abreast of storm tips and look for alternative modes of travel, including leaving from a different airport.

Additional Precautions

You should always carry one change of clothing, extra medications and other immediate necessities in your carry-on bag in case a delayed flight prevents you getting to your luggage right away. Alert those who may be expecting you in Rio Verde, AZ, so they are aware of your situation. It may give you some comfort and help you feel safer if others know where you are, especially if you choose a different route.
If you are still at home when you get the news that a storm serious enough to cause a canceled flight is headed your way, make sure to have the number of a good storm and water restoration company in handy to take care of your home in Rio Verde, AZ in an emergency. You can worry less during serious weather if you are well prepared.

3 Things Business Owners Should Know About Business Interruption Insurance

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Learning about business interruption insurance can be a useful way you can prepare your business for a storm

Most business owners in North Scottsdale,AZ, never imagine that their business will have to close its doors, even temporarily. However, storms can cause major damage to businesses, and it's often necessary to restore and rebuild after a disaster. Before damage occurs, it can be useful to learn about the benefits of business interruption insurance.

How Do You Know if You Need Interruption Insurance?

Determining what type of insurance policies will be useful to your business if a disaster occurs can feel overwhelming initially. In many situations, a business must temporarily close after a disaster such as a storm has occurred, and costs can quickly add up without income from the business. If you cannot adequately cover the costs of your business closing for an extended period of time, then it's often wise to purchase interruption insurance for your commercial property.

What Is Interruption Insurance?

There are usually a variety of costs associated with maintaining a business that has been affected by a storm. In order to return a business to its previous state, restoration, or even a rebuild, may be necessary, and business can't continue as usual during these processes. Interruption insurance for businesses ultimately helps a business stay afloat if it's necessary to shut down after a disaster occurs. This insurance will cover lost revenue, employees' wages and operational expenses while your business is closed.

How Does Interruption Insurance Vary From Other Types of Insurance?

When it comes to protecting your business, there are various insurance policies to choose from. Though flood, fire and other types of insurance usually help to cover the cost of emergency restoration services, these policies won't cover the continuing costs of maintaining your business when it is closed. As a result, many business owners without interruption insurance must face the burden of paying for the operation of the closed business.

Learning about business interruption insurance can be a useful way you can prepare your business for a storm. When you know your expenses are covered after a storm, a rebuild and restoration can become your primary focus.

How To Deal With a Basement Flood

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Basement flood in Scottsdale,AZ

Here Are Some Important Steps To Take When Dealing With a Flooded Basement

When your Scottsdale,AZ, basement floods, whether it’s unfinished or a souped-up man cave, panic will increase as the water rises. There are a number of factors that can cause a basement flood, but water is water, and the resulting damage is the same. Here are some important steps to take when dealing with a flooded basement:

1. Turn Off Electricity

First and foremost, as soon as you can safely navigate to the breaker box, shut off the electricity to the basement. Appliances and exposed wires may be in or near the water, and there’s a good chance an electric current is traveling through the standing water. It could be deadly to step in it before the power is turned off. If you need help, contact an electrician or the electric company.

2. Stop the Source of the Flood

If the flood is plumbing-related, it’s important to turn off the water at the source or at your home’s main valve. If rainwater is coming into the house and there’s no sign of it stopping soon, you may want to sandbag, use flood bags or employ other flood barriers. Once the flood stops, you can take more proactive actions.

3. Remove the Water

A wet/dry vacuum comes in handy when dealing with standing water in a basement flood, especially if debris is floating. It can quickly and safely remove the standing water.

4. Remove Affected Material

Once as much water as possible has been eliminated, it’s time to start removing waterlogged items. Dispose of flooded carpet and padding. Other porous items, such as sofas and wooden furniture, will need drying as quickly as possible to save them.

5. Disinfect

Mold can start developing within 24 hours of the introduction of water. It’s important to dry and disinfect the area thoroughly to keep mold and bacteria from growing and spreading.
If your home sustains water damage from a basement flood, be sure to check your insurance coverage to see what’s covered. You can call water damage cleanup experts to restore your basement back to its original state.

How To Prevent a Home Fire

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Having the right number of smoke alarms for your house size is important

How To Prevent a Home Fire

Being a homeowner in Rio Verde, AZ, comes with many benefits as well as significant responsibilities, especially regarding your family’s safety and well-being. It’s important to keep the house updated structurally to ensure it maintains its value, while also putting fire safety infrastructure in place or developing simple habits which help to avoid costly damage or disasters such as a home fire.
There are many things you and your family can do in regard to fire preparation, so you can have a little extra peace of mind.

Smoke Alarms: Having the right number of smoke alarms for your house size is important. Some people suggest installing one in each room, plus one outside of the bedrooms and on each floor of the home. It is also critical that you test them regularly to ensure they are working and replace the batteries each year.

Cook Safely: Kitchen fire preparation is essential in any home. Keep an eye on food when using the stove and stay inside when using the oven or any other heat-producing cooking appliance. Make sure pets will not jump onto cooking surfaces and keep flammable items a safe distance away. If a small fire starts in a pan with oil, use a lid to cover it and turn the burner off, and do not use water.

Appliances: Keep all your appliances in good working order, especially heaters and furnaces. Make sure wiring and extension cords are in good shape as well and be careful not to overload them.

In the worst-case scenario, if your fire preparation falls short, plan an emergency route out of the house. Especially for families with young children, it is a great learning opportunity to teach them what it means when a fire alarm goes off and how to leave the house if there is an emergency. Setup a planned escape route and determine a meeting area outside the house, then practice twice each year. You might even consider having essential supplies easily accessible to grab on the way out the door.
If your home goes through some fire damage, contact a professional fire restoration company to put your home back to the way it was and to restore as many of your belongings as possible.

How To Get Rid of Mold in Your Home

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage on drywall

How To Get Rid of Mold in Your Home

Mold spores are everywhere. They get tracked into your home on clothing, shoes, hair and pets. If the conditions in your home in North Scottsdale,AZ, are too moist, these spores can turn into mold growth. If you suspect you have a mold problem, there are several steps to get rid of it.

Where To Look

A musty smell is a sure sign that you may have hold somewhere. Start by looking in the most common places:

• Underneath sinks, particularly if you have a leak
• Basement, particularly if you have a problem with high humidity
• Bathroom, particularly if you have plumbing issues
  

If you don't see patches of mold anywhere, it may be in your HVAC system. When mold hides out of sight, you probably need a professional assessment to identify the type of mold and where the mold growth is located.

What To Do

Call a certified mold inspector to detect the mold. If the inspector finds mold, you will need to hire mold remediation specialists to get rid of the problem. They can identify the source of the problem. Perhaps you have unmitigated water damage that has led to the issue. Dust and moisture create an atmosphere that can lead to fungus growth. Once they find the problem, the remediation process can begin.

How To Fix It

Depending on the extent of the problem, technicians may take a couple of different approaches. If the mold growth is small and goes no further than the surface, they can clean it thoroughly and test to make sure they get it all. If you have large or widespread patches on a wall, however, they may have to remove the affected drywall and replace it.
No matter what kind of mold growth you have in your home, you need professional help to mitigate it. They can test, remove the growth and rebuild any damaged structures to get your home back to normal.

Essential Tips for Protecting Your Business From Water Damage

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Preparing an emergency kit that includes water, first aid, flashlights, batteries, battery-powered communication devices

Unpredictable conditions in all seasons can cause costly water emergencies for your business. Severe weather events, engineering breaches and broken pipes are common sources of property damage. A thorough preparedness plan can minimize your chances of water damage and prepare your workplace if a water-related threat does occur.

Staff Preparation

These measures can help prepare you and your coworkers for what to do in the event of rising water.

• Pre-registering with an emergency notification service
  
• Posting safe evacuation routes
  
• Having an emergency preparedness training for your staff
  
• Preparing an emergency kit that includes water, first aid, flashlights, batteries, battery-powered communication devices and chargers
  
• Posting contact information for a local commercial water remediation service
  
  
  

Facility Preparation

One way to protect your Rio Verde, AZ, facility is to assess your location’s risk level for water damage and adjust your preparation accordingly. You may want to consult local planning departments and weather forecasters to evaluate your susceptibility to severe weather. Your business insurance agent can also help you assess risk and discuss flood coverage options. Proper coverage could make a big financial difference in a major flood event.

Regular building maintenance practices can minimize your chances of property damage from water. Keeping gutters and storm drains clear and inspecting your property’s drainage pipes may help effectively divert floodwater from your building. A few simple modifications to your utilities can also minimize your chances of costly water damage. Removing fuel tanks and other combustible items from basements may help prevent fuel leaks. Attaching a battery backup to your sump pump can help ensure water is removed even during a power outage, which is often necessary in severe weather. Installing backflow prevention valves on utility lines can prevent contamination of your existing plumbing system.

In the event of serious flooding in your area, you might be grateful if you devoted some time to research and preparation. Water cleanup and restoration are generally unsettling and costly for a business owner. Following through on a few preventive measures could minimize the impact on your property and your bottom line.

Act Quickly to Minimize Damage to Broken Pipes

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Ceiling damage due to broken pipe in Rio Verde,AZ

What To Do When You Encounter a Broken Pipe

In the event of bursting pipes or even newly discovered leaks, time is of the essence when trying to fix the broken pipe. Here are the most important things to do when encountering a broken pipe to minimize potential water damage to your home in Rio Verde, AZ.

1. Shut Off Water Valves

Whether water is gushing into your living room or a leaky pipe has been barely holding on for weeks, the first thing that you need to do when you see a broken pipe in your home is to shut off the water valve. As a homeowner, you are the most likely person to know where your main water access point is, and quickly turning off the water can prevent further damage and strain on bursting pipes to give you time to make a plan to fix the broken pipe.

2. Move Valuable Items

It takes a very short time for water to seep into everything from antique furniture to precious family photo albums. With the water off, you can limit further damage, but you may find these items already soaked. Do what you can to move items out of standing water if you can do so safely. Whatever you do, do not enter flooded areas that might have electric currents running through them.

3. Contact a Professional

When it comes to your home’s maintenance, you might be used to patching things up yourself, but if you really want to fix a broken pipe the right way, you need to contact a professional. Companies specializing in water damage repair and restoration are specially trained to check for hidden damage to the structure of your home due to bursting pipes. Calling cleanup services as quickly as possible can prevent mold and secondary damage from occurring, and you won’t regret hiring qualified professionals to restore damaged areas and belongings to make it seem “Like it never even happened.” and prevent further headaches down the road.

Useful Flood Prevention Strategies for Businesses

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

Take advantage of plant life as using heavy mulch can also be useful

Flood Prevention Strategies

Many properties in North Scottsdale,AZ, are affected by floods each year, but many business owners aren't sure how to prepare their businesses for a flood. However, there are various flood prevention strategies you can use to lessen the risk of flood damage.

1. Choose the Location of Your Business Wisely When Building

Researching your area when choosing a location for your business is often wise. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, it can be useful to avoid floodplains if possible. However, if your business is built on a floodplain, there are measurements you can take to protect your building from water damage, such as installing and maintaining a sump pump. If your business sustains damage after a flood, you may want to consider contacting flood cleaning and restoration services.

2. Use Water-Resistant Materials

When you are in the process of building your business, it can often be helpful to focus on flood prevention by focusing on what materials are being used. Some materials, such as concrete, are able to handle the impact of water better than other materials. If your property is already built, however, then it can be wise to check your building for any cracks or small holes before a flood. If you notice an area where water may come into your building, you can use water-resistant sealants.

3. Take Advantage of Plant Life

In addition to researching your location and using water-resistant materials, you can use plant life to prevent the need for storm cleanup. Certain trees, such as willow trees and maple trees, as well as shrubs and iris flowers, are able to absorb water quickly, which can help to protect your business from flooding. Using heavy mulch can also be useful, as heavy mulch won't easily wash away in a flood.

Instead of focusing on flood cleanup, it can be valuable to focus on flood prevention strategies in order to prevent major damage. Taking note of the location of your business in the building process, using water-resistant materials and using your landscape to your advantage can help you to prevent your property from sustaining flood and storm damage.

Keeping Your Workplace Safe From Mold

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

HVAC cleaning is essential

Keep Your Business Protected From Mold Growth

With all of the aspects of running a business, owners in Rio Verde, AZ, are constantly thinking about employee safety. However, they don’t always make it a priority to eliminate or prevent mold growth, as it can often be an unseen problem. Mold can grow in almost any place with moisture, including air ducts, so it isn’t an issue reserved just for homeowners. The following steps can keep your business protected from mold growth and its negative health effects.

1. Keep High Risk Areas Dry

The easiest way to handle a mold issue is to prevent it from occurring. Like within a home, bathrooms and kitchens in the workplace are a common problem area due to the amount of water used. Take care to have regular maintenance of piping and immediately address any noticeable leaks, regardless of how small they may seem. Check cabinets under sinks to ensure they are dry. Factories that utilize water or hoses need to take special care to have effective drying equipment and regular mold inspections.

2. Check Air Vents

Regular HVAC cleaning, as well as cleaning vents, will tell you if you have mold within your system. If you ever notice a damp smell or increased respiratory issues among employees, this should be the first place to check. Any noticeable warning signs warrant a call to a professional mold elimination company. Most people are surprised to know that mold can grab onto dust particles and circulate throughout the air system, so HVAC cleaning is essential.

3. Inspect Your Office or Factory Regularly

Although mold can grow in air ducts or walls, it’s also a visible problem in other areas. Therefore, a visual inspection is a great way to identify issues. Check behind desks and machines, particularly if you are in a humid environment.
Employee safety is a priority of any business. This includes protection from illness due to mold. It’s always a best practice to regularly check for signs of mold, including HVAC cleaning. It’s also essential to keep the building as dry as possible to give you peace of mind that you are keeping your employees as safe as possible.

Smell Natural Gas? These Tips May Save Your Life

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

A gas fire can be extremely dangerous

Many people assume that natural gas explosions are a thing of the past, back when regulations weren't as strict as they are today. However, the truth is that gas fires continue to occur at an alarming rate and, sadly, they often result in much more dire consequences than fire damage. You can prevent a gas fire by recognizing the signs of a gas leak.

Determine if Your Home Utilizes Natural Gas

Before you learn the signs of a gas leak, you should determine which aspects of your home use natural gasses. You may be at risk for a gas leak if any of the following appliances use the natural commodity:

• Your oven
  
• Your hot water heater
  
• Your AC unit
  
• Your fireplace
  
• Your clothes dryer
  
• Your heating system
  
  

If any of your appliances run on gas, invest in gas detectors and remain vigilant for signs of a gas leak.
What To Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak
A gas leak can quickly lead to a gas fire which can quickly lead to a gas explosion. For this reason, it is imperative that you recognize the signs of a leak and take proper measures to prevent disaster:

1. Check the Stove: If it's safe to do so, walk over to your stove to make sure all the burners are off.
   Open the Doors and Windows: If you cannot find the source of the leak, open all the doors and windows to help the gasses escape.
   
2. Don't Flip Any Switches: A light switch can cause a spark, which can cause an explosion. Keep all the lights off if you suspect a gas leak.
   
3. Shut Off Your Gas Meter: If you don't know where your gas meter is located, now's the time to find it. If you smell gasses, locate the meter and turn it off.
   
   

A gas fire can be extremely dangerous. For this reason, the best thing you can do if you suspect a gas leak is to leave your home ASAP and call 911. If a fire does occur, a North Scottsdale,AZ, fire damage cleanup crew can help with the restoration process.

How To Clean Up After a Flood

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding after a storm in Scottsdale, AZ

Ways to Minimize Damage After a Flood

Dealing with a flooded home in Scottsdale,AZ, is overwhelming. To make the recovery process a less stressful one, it’s important to do what you can to prevent further damage and keep your home in the best condition possible. The most effective way to minimize damage after a flood is to have your home cleaned up by a restoration professional. In the meantime, you should adhere to the following cleaning requirements until help arrives.

Remove Furniture

Any furniture and other household items that have been affected by flood water should be taken outside as soon as possible. Some of these items may include:

• Bedding
  
• Rugs
  
• Clothing
  
• Shoes
  
  

Bringing these objects outside can provide them with sufficient time and space to dry completely. It is also a good idea to remove moisture from the objects using an air conditioner or dehumidifier. If you are unable to carry an unwieldy object outdoors, open some windows in your house or point a fan towards the wet item.

Disinfect Surfaces

Another one of the main cleaning requirements is to disinfect every surface in your home. First, use a heavy-duty cleaner and hot water to clean each surface thoroughly. Next, use a flood disinfectant product to sterilize the surfaces in your home. Ensuring that each area of your living space is clean and free of germs helps you maintain a protected home in the aftermath of a flood.

Treat Floors Properly

The types of floors you have determine how you should clean them. If you have carpeting that has been submerged in water for more than a day, dispose of it immediately. Otherwise, you can simply hose down the carpet and make sure it has dried completely afterwards. Flooring that is made of vinyl should be removed so that the subfloor can dry, and wood floors require a drying process that is best performed by a restoration specialist.
Improving the state of your home and following cleaning requirements is only a single step in the cleanup process. Consult a storm damage restoration specialist for a professional flood clean as soon as possible.

3 Reasons Your Business Needs Fire Insurance

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are very common source of damage and can come from faulty wiring

3 Reasons Your Business Needs Fire Insurance

While it may be tempting to save a bit of money by not purchasing fire insurance for your company in Rio Verde, AZ, this could end up costing you big in the long run. In case of an emergency, you want to have as much financial protection as you can. If you are leaning toward skipping this policy, here are a few things that might change your mind.

1. Fires Are a Common Cause of Property Damage

You may think that you are careful enough to avoid causing a fire in your building, but being careful is not always enough. Fires are a very common source of damage to both homes and commercial buildings and can come from a variety of sources, from candles to faulty wiring to old or damaged equipment. Because of this, fire insurance is a great investment for any business owner.

2. Repairs Can Be Extensive

Because they can spread quickly, fires can cause quite a bit of damage to your company’s building. Not only can it weaken, and sometimes destroy, portions of the structure, it can ruin the property inside as well. It can cost a lot of money to repair and replace these items along with restoring the building. Fire insurance can cover most, if not all, of these costs.

3. You May Lose Business

During the fire and smoke cleanup process, you may not be able to use your building to conduct business. Because you cannot operate as you usually would, you can lose valuable business time and profits. Having insurance will keep you from losing even more money and will help you to have repairs finished more quickly.
If you experience a fire in your building, contact a fire restoration company as soon as possible. They will be able to perform any necessary cleanup and repairs to return your business to its prior condition, so you can get back to work quickly.

What Homeowners Should Know About Broken Pipes

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Rusted pipes can cause problems in your property

A burst pipe can cause homes in Mcdowell Mountain, AZ, to flood in a short period of time. Dealing with the effects of a broken pipe can be overwhelming but learning about broken pipes before an issue occurs can be helpful.

What Causes Pipe Issues?

There are a variety of issues that can plague your home’s pipes. Common causes of pipe problems include:

• Rusted or old pipes
  
• Cold temperatures
  
• Improperly installed pipes
  
• A sudden increase in your pipes’ water pressure
  

What Are Common Types of Damage and How Is It Resolved? 

A burst pipe can result in various types of damage in your home. Mold growth is a common issue in homes that have had pipe breaks. Additionally, building materials often deteriorate after a pipe break, and laminate surfaces, drywall and subfloors may need to be replaced. It’s often helpful for homeowners to contact flood damage restoration professionals and a plumber after the damage has occurred. A plumber can fix broken pipe and examine other pipes to check for widespread problems. Restoration experts can focus on mitigating the damage that has already occurred and can help to restore furniture, electronics and other items.

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Broken and Leaking Pipes?

Though insurance coverage may vary with individual policies, the majority of home insurance policies will generally cover the costs of broken or leaking pipes. Though some policies may not cover the costs of damage if it occurs slowly over time, most insurance companies will cover sudden breaks or leaks. To ensure you are fairly compensated, it can be helpful to provide your insurance company with documentation of the damage.

When a broken pipe results in a flood in your home, you may be unsure what to do next. Knowing the causes of pipe breaks, the damage that could occur as a result of a break and what your insurance will likely cover can offer you peace of mind after a burst pipe in your home.

Smoke Damage

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

If you detect one or more signs of smoke damage, you should contact a certified remediation company and schedule a damage assessment and cleanup.

Smoke damage can be more subtle than fire damage, but it can undermine air quality in a commercial property. If you want to know whether smoke cleaning will eliminate all traces of the odor, check for these four signs of damage caused by smoke.

4 Signs of Smoke Damage

1. Stains on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces. Smoke can cause yellowish stains to appear on surfaces. Smoke consists of a combination of partially or completely burned particles, vapors, and toxic gases. These substances can cause discoloration to show up within a few days of damage.

2. Signs of rust or corrosion on metal. The sudden formation of rust on metal items is one of the most telltale signs of damage caused by smoke. This damage can start to occur within hours of exposure to smoke. If you see evidence of corrosion on visible metal, you should be very careful with electronics. Circuits and wires can become corroded and malfunction or fail.

3. Smoke odor emerging from porous contents. Smoke odors may linger long after exposure within the carpet or furniture in your commercial property. This odor gets trapped in porous contents, and smoke cleaning or deodorization may be necessary to eliminate the smell.

4. Smoky smells in your HVAC system. If smoky air has gotten drawn into the air ducts or HVAC system in your commercial property, the odor will periodically cycle throughout your property. This can lower air quality and may cause respiratory issues for sensitive employees or occupants.

If you detect one or more signs of smoke damage in a commercial property in Scottsdale, AZ, you should contact your commercial property insurance provider and ask about your coverage. Most commercial insurance policies will contribute toward, if not completely cover, the cost of smoke cleaning. Once you check your coverage, you should contact a certified remediation company and schedule a damage assessment and cleanup.

What To Know About Mold and Your Insurance

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage to drywall

What To Know About Mold and Your Insurance

For an apartment in Rio Verde, AZ, having rental insurance is an important aspect of being a responsible tenant. When you select your policy, you may be wondering what your coverage includes. One of the things to inquire about is what the policy says about mold damage. Fortunately, many policies have some similarities depending on the following questions.

1. What is the Mold Cause

The first thing to consider is what is the cause of the mold. If it's the results of a natural disaster such as flooding, occurs after fire suppression efforts, or from an accident such as a pipe leak you may be in luck. If the mold is a result negligence on your part then it may not fall under your policy. If you think you may have mold, or water damage that could lead to mold, it's best to take care of the problem as quickly as you possibly can.

2. Should You Reasonably Have Known

Your rental insurance agent may also look at if you should reasonably have known about the problem. In an obvious place such as under a windowsill they may expect you to catch it. Other areas such as beneath the floorboards or between a wall may mean normal reasonable effort would not have found it. It's also important to note that in some cases mold damage may fall under your landlord's realm of responsibility.

3. Did You Try to Mitigate

Your insurance agent may also look at if you've done everything you can in good faith to mitigate the damage. This may include informing maintenance as soon as you knew about it, taking care of any leaks, and even contacting a professional remediation service for mold removal.

When it comes to your rental insurance policy it's best to talk to your agent about what exactly it contains. But most cases, if you've done everything you can in good faith to mitigate the damage as soon as you knew about it, you should be covered up to a certain amount. Remember, when in doubt it's always best take care of the problem as quickly as possible.

The 6 Steps of the Fire Damage Restoration Process

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage in a North Scottsdale, AZ bedroom

Steps the Restoration Specialists Will Take After You Contact Them

After a home fire, you might feel as if there is no hope for recovery when you see the damage that has occurred to your home and belongings. Fortunately, a house fire isn’t always the end of line for your home. By calling a fire restoration company, your home in North Scottsdale, AZ, and many of your belongings can be restored to their pre-fire condition. Here are the steps the restoration specialists will take after you contact them.

1. Home Inspection

The fire damage restoration specialist will begin by entering your home and assessing how much damage has occurred. They will then be able to determine exactly what needs to be done to restore your home.

2. Board-Up and Roof-Tarp

Before the restoration team can safely begin working on your home, they will to board up any missing doors and windows and place tarp on any damaged portions of your roof.

3. Water Removal

Firefighters use a lot of water to put out large house fires, and extremely hot temperatures can cause pipes to burst and flood your home. Before addressing any fire damage that has occurred, the fire restoration specialists will use special equipment to remove any remaining water.

4. Smoke and Soot Removal

Lingering smoke and soot can continue to damage the structure of your home and your belongings if not quickly addressed. To prevent further smoke damage, the restoration team will remove all signs of smoke and soot.

5. Damage Cleaning

Once all water and smoke has been removed from your home, the restoration specialists will sanitize surfaces and structures in your home and clean any of your salvageable belongings. They’ll also completely deodorize your house.

6. Restoration

Lastly, the restoration specialists will make any necessary repairs, large or small, to restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

With the help of fire restoration specialists, you’ll be able to return to your home with many of your treasured belongings in no time.

3 Ways to Protect Your Business From Flood Damage

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Installing a sump pump, can help to stop your property from flooding during a storm

Knowing How to Protect Your Business From Flood Damage

Floods in Scottsdale,AZ, can easily devastate businesses with little warning. Knowing how to protect your business from flood damage can prevent you from having to spend a great deal of time, stress and money on restoration.

1. Install a Sump Pump

When water accumulates quickly in a business, it’s often necessary to employ storm damage restoration experts. However, having the ability to drain water safely and quickly from the interior of your building can help to prevent major damage from occurring. Installing a sump pump, a device that removes water, can help to stop your property from flooding during a storm.

2. Clear Your Property’s Gutters

It’s often important to check that your business’s gutters are clean and cleared out before a storm. With limbs, sticks or leaves blocking the gutters, water can collect in the gutters which can cause damage to the structure of your building. Cleaning your gutters before a storm can decrease the likelihood of a leak occurring. It may also be helpful to position your gutters away from your property so as to keep the water away from your building’s foundation.

3. Use Sealants

Water often can get into your business through small cracks or holes. As floodwater rises, the hole can become larger and can allow more water into your building. Though small cracks may not be immediately apparent, it can be helpful to take the time to inspect your property to see if there are any openings present. If you do notice a crack, applying a sealant or a coating to the area can help to prevent water from entering your business.

As a business owner, protecting your business from flood damage can be incredibly helpful. Installing a sump pump, cleaning your property’s gutters frequently and using sealants to cover holes or cracks can decrease the likelihood of damage from a flood occurring in your business.

What To Do Before Your Adjuster Arrives

4/27/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Scottsdale for your flood restoration

When a storm hits your home in Rio Verde, AZ, it is likely that damage will be widespread throughout the area. Even if you have flood insurance, it is still in your best interest to limit the amount of damage to your home as much as possible. Your insurance adjuster will likely be very busy during this time, so it's important to take a few key steps before he or she arrives.

Call Restoration Professionals

The first call you should make after alerting your insurance company is to flood restoration specialists. There are several benefits to calling them quickly:

• Assessment of initial damage
  
• Faster water extraction to prevent further harm to your home
  
• Itemized list of damages to help with insurance claim

Even if they get a lot of calls, they tend to be equipped to mobilize quickly in an emergency situation and can probably get to you faster than your flood insurance adjuster. In fact, with the list of damages they provide, they can actually make adjusters' jobs easier once they arrive by providing an estimate of what the remediation will cost.

Take Lots of Pictures

If the damage is severe, you may have to evacuate your home to keep yourself and your family safe. If you can safely do so, however, it is a good idea to take as many pictures as you can. You may even consider taking a video of all the affected areas of your home. If it has been a few days, and the flood damage has turned into mold damage, make sure you document that as well. The more evidence that you can provide of the repairs your home needs, the better chance you have of getting your claim accepted.

Even if you have great flood insurance, a large storm can overtax local adjusters, delaying their ability to get to you in a timely manner. Taking proactive steps to document the flood damage and keep it from getting worse can help you in the long run.

Cleanup Tips After a Furnace Flood

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO od Scottsdale has the best tools and skills to get the job done right after a furnace flood.

You may not equate furnaces with water damage. After all, furnaces keep you warm when temperatures outside start to drop and have nothing to do with water themselves. However, pipes around your furnace may have a problem, requiring you to take immediate action to correct the issue at your North Scottsdale, AZ, office building. Thankfully, there are some easy ways to mitigate a furnace flood and get things working correctly once more.

How Can This Happen?

Depending on the size of your building, you may have more than one furnace. All of these may be located in areas of your facility where there is an intricate network of pipes and ducts. It’s not uncommon for these and other flaws to present themselves and cause a flooded furnace.

• Old pipes start to corrode and leak water on the floor by the furnace.
• Water leaks into the furnace from underneath due to a weak foundation.
• Water drips onto the furnace from above from water in the ceiling.

Initial Steps

Your first task should be to remove the water around the furnace. You can do this by extracting the water with a shop vac or other machine. Once you remove all of the water, make sure you thoroughly the dry the area. Open windows to get ventilation, and set up some fans nearby to get air moving even more.

Sanitize

You may not know how long the water has been leaking and causing the furnace flood. There could be some concerns with mold and other unwanted substances. Thoroughly clean and sanitize the area around the furnace and the outside of the furnace itself.

Know When To Call the Pros

An extensive furnace flood may require a flood mitigation team to get inside the furnace and examine the extent of the damage. The pros have the best tools and skills to get the job done.

Furnaces and water aren’t a good combination. However, if a flood damages this appliance and the area around it, try the tricks and call a professional.

4 Tips for Getting Rid of Mold for Good

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage found in a closet. Contact SERVPRO

It’s unpleasant to discover black mold in a building you own, but it’s not the end of the world. If you handle the problem properly, you can get rid of it for good. Here are four solid pieces of advice to follow when your building in Rio Verde, AZ, has a mold issue.

1. Get Professional Help

Mold cleanup is not something you should try to do yourself. Mold remediation specialists are trained and certified to find all the places mold is hiding in your building and get rid of the growth entirely. It is better to rely on their expertise than to keep scrubbing mold off the wall only to see it return again in a few days or weeks.

2. Stop Mold From Spreading

If you see a fuzzy or slimy growth on the ceiling, it’s obviously too late to prevent black mold, but you can take steps to make sure it doesn’t go any further. Turn off your HVAC system so that it doesn’t carry mold spores from the concentrated growth to the rest of your building. If you have a leak, turn off the water main so that you can minimize the damage, thus giving mold less area to cover.

3. Leave Affected Items Alone

Resist the urge to handle any items that have mold on them. When technicians arrive to assess and clean your building, they can also determine which items can be salvaged and which ones will need to be thrown away and replaced.

4. Don’t Cover It Up

An ongoing moisture problem can cause materials to mold. Covering the spots between your restroom tiles with more caulk or painting over a moldy wall doesn’t get rid of the mold. It just makes it harder for the professionals to get to.

No one likes to see black mold. With timely response and professional remediation, however, you can resolve your fungus problem and keep it from returning.

Water Damage 101

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO today for your commercial restoration emergency

When a business property has to deal with a flooding issue, the financial loss isn't just measured in how much it will cost to remove the water standing in a break room and then the clean-up. Every day that its doors are closed means a loss of income to cover the regular bills as well. 

Many businesses today are operating on a shoestring for a budget, and it seems to be getting tighter despite the recovery of the last two years. Any business that has to turn away customers for even just a few days risks not reopening them. Water damage in Scottsdale commercial properties has to be dealt with immediately. SERVPRO has the experience and equipment to help them reopen as soon as possible. 

Commercial property flooding usually occurs in an area that isn't noticed immediately. Once it is discovered, most businesses have to close immediately. That's already one day's receipts lost. To stop it, professional removal and remediation services have to be on-site that same day to find the source of the flooding, stop it if necessary and begin the clean-up process. 

Arizona state and Scottsdale safety laws require that standing water has to be removed and dried out before employees can return to work. If water isn't removed quickly enough, then there will be concerns over structure damage and possibly even mold damage. If that happens, then a day or two closed can easily turn into a week or longer. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Helping you reopen your business is our goal. We understand that getting back to your customers is the lifeblood of your business, and it has to begin circulating again as soon as possible after the flooding stops. If a damaged pipe, storm water or an employee error has shut down your business, call us today at SERVPRO of Scottsdale at (480) 998-7989 to get you cleaned up and reopened. 

How SERVPRO Will Help With Your Insurance Claims

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is ready to respond to your Fire & Water Clean up and Restoration.

In the aftermath of a disaster in your office, there are many moving pieces and plenty of people working hard to resolve the matter. You may not think of your insurance claim services relying on the expertise of a disaster cleanup team. However, when the cleanup process gets underway quickly and efficiently, it may amaze you just how much easier it is for your insurance company to get on the ball as well.

What Happens After an Emergency?

Despite your best efforts to keep your office safe, incidents can occur. If you experience a fire, flood or mold in your North Scottsdale, AZ, workplace, it’s essential that you take the proper steps to begin the recovery process and to ensure that you don’t have to pay the repair bill.

• Contact a reputable, commercial disaster response team to initiate cleanup and restoration.
  
• Call your insurance company to report the situation and file a claim.
  
• Communicate with the emergency response company to establish repair timelines.

One Doesn’t Work Well Without the Other

Your primary objective following an emergency at work is to make sure you and your staff can return to work in a safe, clean environment as soon as possible. The insurance company won’t go too far in the claim services process until the restoration team responds to you and gives an assessment of the damage and repair needs. The cleanup company also wants to know your insurance company will cover the damage and work.

The Best Cleanup Companies Work Well With Your Insurance Provider

Not all disaster recovery companies are equal. When you hire the professionals at SERVPRO, you can have confidence that the team will communicate effectively with your insurance agent to start the claims and payment procedures. The faster the cleanup and restoration company response to your disaster, the faster your insurance provider will do its part.

Claim services don’t have to get bogged down and delay your coverage. When SERVPRO is involved, you know everything should proceed well.

5 Tips for Mitigating Water Damage

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Scottsdale for any mitigation and restoration emergencies

Water damage can become a serious problem in a matter of hours. Here are five tips for mitigating damage as soon as possible.

1. Resolve the Cause

Whether the damage is due to broken pipes or a sewer backup, it is crucial to fix the underlying problem. Otherwise, an issue will continue or reoccur. A homeowner may want to contact a plumber. 

2. Remove Standing Water

Eliminating moisture as quickly as possible is the most important mitigation measure. A homeowner can use a mop or wet vac. A service that specializes in water cleanup may use pumps and other professional equipment. 

3. Clean and Disinfect If Necessary

It may be necessary to clean and sanitize the area depending on the category of water damage. Damage caused by clean Category One water can simply be dried. Clean water left standing as long as 72 hours or water from an appliance leak may be contaminated. Category Two gray water may contain chemicals and microbes and requires disinfection. This is also the case with Category Three black water, which could contain solid waste.

4. Dry the Area

It is also important to promote drying. Restoration specialists may recommend increasing ventilation or using a dehumidifier to draw out residual moisture.

5. Decide How to Handle Wet Contents

Some contents may be candidates for cleaning and restoration while others should be disposed of and replaced. Porous materials exposed to contaminated water can be difficult to clean and may continue to pose a mold risk. Most non-porous items can be restored. Porous materials damaged by clean water can usually be dried and restored. 

These mitigation measures can limit the severity of any type of water damage. Keep in mind that mold may start growing within just 24 to 48 hours. Rather than risk further primary and secondary damage, contact mitigation and restoration specialists in Scottsdale,AZ.

How To Rid Plants of Mildew

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let your plants get affected from mildew

Is plant mildew getting you down? Many homeowners in Scottsdale,AZ, are frustrated by the growth of mildew on household plants, which is common in humid and wet climates; and they are not sure how to get rid of it. Fortunately, there are four steps that you can take to remove this pesky mildew.

1. Move the plant. If your mildew-affected plant is of the indoor, potted variety, consider moving it outdoors before doing anything else. The following steps explain why this migration is so important.

2. Wash your plant. Now that you’ve moved your plant outside, spray it with plain water to remove as much mildew as possible. This is especially important if the plant mildew is very prominent.

3. Cut off the mildew. If you can, cut off all the mildew. This is a necessary step to take because it can help improve the plant’s air circulation which should allow it to stay drier. If your plant is fully or almost fully covered in mildew growth, you may have to face the fact that the plant will not survive cutting.

4. Give it sun. Now that you have cleaned your plant and have it out in the open air, adding some warm, bright sunlight should help it stay dry and mildew-free. This final step is especially important if your plant keeps growing mildew.

Mildew Versus Mold

Many homeowners are confused about the difference between plant mildew and mold. Learning how to identify the two is an important additional step to take when trying to find a solution to your mildew problem. It is actually quite easy to tell mildew apart from mold, as mildew will never grow on anything besides a plant. In other words, the growth you see on walls, in the basement, or at other locations around the house is most likely mold and is probably not mildew. If you still have questions about the two or need help with mold and moisture issues, contact a mold remediation service near you.

Trust Trained SERVPRO Techs to Remediate Your Mold Damaged Property

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Remediates Mold Infestations in Scottsdale Properties.

It's easiest to control and repair mold damage in its early stages, but many homeowners aren't sure of what signs to look for. Left to spread, mold can affect the health of humans and animals, create odors that are very difficult to get rid of, and cause damage to your home's structure, flooring, and possessions.

Though the weather in town is typically warm and on the dry side, it's not uncommon for homeowners to encounter mold damage in Scottsdale. If you suspect that your home is in need of mold remediation, it's important to contact a skilled team, such as SERVPRO so that the problem can be remediated efficiently.

Remediate Your Mold Damaged Property

Here are three telltale signs that your home may have mold damage:

1. Persistent moldy (musty) odors. Mold can often be smelled before it is seen, so don't ignore any lingering odors that persist in your home. Contacting our experts at SERVPRO for an inspection when you first smell mold can help prevent the problem from getting worse. Remember, this is like a smoke alarm, warning you of impending problems.

2. Increased humidity and condensation. Mold thrives in humid, wet conditions, and if your home's humidity has noticeably increased the risk of mold damage becomes greater. The higher humidity and condensation in your home could be the result of a roof in need of repair, faulty HVAC system, or your home's proximity to a nearby lake. The RH, relative humidity, in your house can be adjusted and stabilized with the use of one or two dehumidifiers.
3. Leaking water. Water leaks from burst pipes, cracked exterior walls, and damaged roofs are notorious for leading to mold infestation. Leaks can go undetected for months or longer, and combined with a mold infestation, can weaken the framing, resulting in severe structural damage.

Mold damage is a serious matter, but you can trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Scottsdale to get your home back in top shape. "Like it never even happened."

Where’d This Mold Come From? 3 Reasons You’re Experiencing Mold Growth

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding is perhaps the most obvious cause of mold growth.

No one wants to find mold growing in their home. However, it’s a common occurrence the average homeowner in Scottsdale, AZ can expect to face once or twice in a lifetime. Regardless of how commonplace the issue might be, when you locate a little patch of mold under the sink or elsewhere in your house, it’s probably your first instinct to ask yourself, “How did this get here?” The answer is typically easier than you might think.

Where’d This Mold Come From?

There are three main reasons why you might be experience black mold in your home:

1. A Moisture Problem 

An ongoing moisture problem is usually the chief cause of mold growth and spread. Some common household moisture issues that could lead to the presence of mold include:

• Leaks in plumbing
• Leaking roofs or siding
• Improperly sealed walls and other surfaces
• Broken water supply lines

These issues are simple enough to repair, but they can be difficult to identify at times. If left unchecked, mold is likely to form in areas that experience water-damage due to these problems.

2. Air Temperature and Humidity

Over time, keeping your home just a bit too warm can facilitate the growth of black mold, just like common moisture issues. Humid air traps water in an enclosed space, which then condenses on walls. Mold spores come into contact with this moisture and latch onto the source. Keeping the thermostat a bit lower when you expect to be out of the house can combat mold a bit.

3. Flooding

Flooding is perhaps the most obvious cause of mold growth. During flooding of any intensity, parts of your home are subjected to a huge amount of standing water. Even after a bit of professional mold cleanup, it’s likely some of this water has soaked into the walls of your home where it can provide moisture for mold growth.

Understanding the causes of black mold growth can help you prevent the necessary conditions for a thriving mold contamination in your home, allowing you and your family to live and breathe easily.

Rely on SERVPRO to Restore Your Water Damaged Property

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says: A Sump Pump Can Prevent Water Damage in Scottsdale.

Severe weather always seems on the horizon increasing the risk of significant water intrusion into your home. When high winds combine with rain and hail the integrity of your roof, windows or siding may not hold allowing water to leak inside and cause severe damage to the structure and your personal property. SERVPRO has the staff and equipment to remove water from walls, ceilings, floors and more, including cutting-edge technology to restore keepsakes your family would be heartbroken to lose or be forced to replace.

Thunderstorms and downpours respect no area and are a possibility in your neighborhood. If heavy weather damages your house, you must find a company that offers reliable water removal in Scottsdale. Our highly trained technicians will be dispatched to your location quickly after storm water causes destruction as it is essential that moisture is contained and removed from a structure and its contents as soon as possible to avoid long-term problems. Expect our staff to respond with a variety of professional grade tools that will pump and vacuum standing and pooling water up swiftly, preventing further damage to the interior of your home. Our technicians responding to your emergency hold industry standard Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification including education on how to locate hidden leaks that may be otherwise overlooked and proven techniques to dry out the area promptly. Don't let a basement leak ruin your home.

Rely on SERVPRO to Restore Your Water Damaged Property

The technicians at SERVPRO have specialized knowledge to support their assessments of what items can be dried and restored and which may need to be replaced after they complete the post-storm water removal. We carefully consider the damage to the structure and its contents as we make our recommendations and complete the work. Our advice will help you avoid the risk of mold or other lingering effects of the weather damage. The goal of our overall water removal and restoration is always to leave your home and personal possessions “Like it never even happened” after our thorough efforts. We will guide you through every step of the plan to remove the water and repair the damage that resulted including working with your insurance company to ensure every inch of your home is safely restored at a suitable cost to you.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale has both the staff and the equipment to meet your water removal needs after severe storms, or simply a burst pipe, has affected your home. We respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week with just a call to our dispatchers at (480) 998-7989.

3 Reasons to Join SERVPRO

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

When people want it like new, they think of SERVPRO, leaders in the field.

3 Reasons To Join SERVPRO

Nationwide, water restoration and disaster remediation companies aren’t hard to find. What is hard to find, however, is an expert firm with as strong a reputation as SERVPRO. SERVPRO is an exception place to hire but also to own. Learn more about what makes our company so successful and some of the top reasons you should consider a locally owned SERVPRO franchise in Scottsdale, AZ.
Who Is SERVPRO

Founded in 1967, SERVPRO is a national provider of disaster cleanup and restoration services, with services for homeowners, large businesses and everything in between. With franchises covering some 48 states, we are an industry leader in cleanup for small distinct disasters and multi-million dollar huge-loss situations caused by:

• Fires
• Flooding
• Storm damage
• Tornadoes and so much more.

When people want it like new, they think of SERVPRO, leaders in the field. It’s clear why people hire us. Now, here are some of the reasons they join our team.

A Large Support Network

With more than 1,600 franchises that are individually owned and operated, SERVPRO has a huge system. This benefits customers who can always find a nearby vendor, but it also helps franchisees, who can partner with nearby certified franchises or get advice and support when needed.

A Great Environment

The SERVPRO franchise network consistently rank within the top 20 on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 ranking, ranking No. 1 in the cleanup and restoration industry for 2018. That’s the ninth consecutive year and proof that we keep our partners happy.

Brand Recognition

Consumers could choose anyone for water damage restoration. But over the years, SERVPRO has gained a reputation for the best service and results second to none. That means a SERVPRO franchise starts out ahead of the game.

SERVPRO happily serves customers across the country, providing a clean environment and peace of mind when people need it most. Consider joining the SERVPRO franchise team and join a proud legacy.

3 Tips for Finding and Fixing a Roof Leak

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Fix your roof as soon as possible.

3 Things To Consider When Fixing A Roof Leak

If your business is facing a roof leak in North Scottsdale,AZ, you may be wondering what to do about it. Fortunately, there are a few tips that many experts recommend keep your roof in top shape. Here are a few things you might want to consider.

1. Inspect the Roof

If you believe there may be a leak an inspection may be desired. Indications of damage could include missing shingles, wind worn areas, or damp areas. Depending on the type of damage you may need to take different repair steps. Many experts recommend looking over the roof biannually. If you’ve been through a particularly bad storm, you may want to check for damage then as well.

2. Fix Problem Areas Quickly

When fixing a roof leak or other parts of a damaged roof, it's important to conduct the repairs as quickly as possible. This can help prevent further damage to the area. In some cases, you may want to board over the space in order to prevent the elements from causing further issues.

3. Thoroughly Check Over the Area

It's also important to thoroughly check over your roof in order to ensure that no other areas have been damaged. A professional restoration team may be able to help if you have a large area to fix or are worried about the interior of your roof suffering from water damage. If you're uncomfortable conducting the repairs yourself, or unsure what type of repairs may be necessary contacting a professional is recommended.

When dealing with a roof leak it's important to fix any damage as quickly as possible. One way to find damaged before it gets worse is to conduct regular inspections of the roof. It's also important to thoroughly check over the area to ensure that there is no damage and any nearby locations. If you have any questions a professional may be able to help.

Five Tips for Safely Using Candles in Your Home

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Don´t leave candles unattended in your Scottsdale, AZ home

Five Tips for Safely Using Candles in Your Home

Candles can provide a warm and cozy atmosphere in your Scottsdale, AZ home, but they can also be the cause of significant damage. A candle fire can easily become an emergency, so keep these tips in mind when using them in your home.

1. Keep Candles Away From Flammable Objects
When you are burning a candle, be sure not to use it too close to anything that could catch fire. You should place candles at least a foot away from curtains, bedding, papers, and other flammable objects. You should be especially cautious of highly flammable liquids.

2. Don’t Leave Burning Candles Unattended
While it may seem like a hassle to extinguish the candle every time you may leave the room, it is unsafe to leave it burning unattended. If a fire were to start while you were out of the room, it could spread quickly before you return.

3. Keep Pets and Children Away From Lit Candles
If you have children and pets in your household, it is important to keep them away from any lit candles. As well as injuring themselves, a young child or pet might cause a candle fire by accidentally knocking it over.

4. Only Place Candles in Containers Specifically Made for This Use
You should never use a candle in a container that was not made to be used with them. A container that is not heat resistant could melt or burst, resulting in a fire.

5. Consider Using Candle Alternatives
Because fire can be devastating to your home and smoke cleanup can be difficult, using a candle alternative can be a great choice. Instead of using candles during a power outage, you should use a flashlight or other battery-operated light. For daily use, there are battery-powered candles that can give you the same ambiance as a burning candle without the safety risk.

Although candles are a commonly used item, a candle fire can cause a lot of damage. A fire restoration company can help after an emergency, but you should be sure to follow these tips to keep your home safe.

Preventing Mold in your Scottsdale home

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can grow behind drywall, cabinets, or even on the furniture.

In today’s energy efficient homes, air does not move freely in and out of the home. While this is good for energy savings, it can create moisture and Phoenix mold problems. Though mold growing inside a home is a serious problem, homeowners can take action to prevent mold.

Remove Water
Though it may seem obvious, removing water from the home is one of the simplest ways to prevent Phoenix mold damage. Leaking roofs or basement walls should be promptly repaired. Dripping faucets and leaking drains should also be repaired. When leaving the home for extended periods of time, cabinets under faucets should be left open so air can circulate.

Keep the Home Tidy
Clutter in a home, such as stacks of books or clothes, provides an ideal environment for mold. Mold can grow on these damp items and feed on the natural fibers in the clutter and quickly grow out of control. However, by keeping the home organized, with materials properly stored, there is little chance of mold starting to grow.

Air Conditioning Maintenance
Air conditioning systems not only cool the temperature of the air, but they also remove moisture from the air as drier air feels cooler. When an air conditioning system is working properly, it will remove moisture from the home and reduce the chances of moisture developing through condensation on windows and other areas inside the home. It is important to have an air conditioner inspected at least annually to make certain it is working properly.

Use a Dehumidifier
Though air conditioning systems play a role in removing moisture, a whole home dehumidifier can help to correct and prevent moisture problems in the home. Systems can be added to the HVAC system to remove moisture and which will drain outside of the home. These systems are ideal for homes, especially those located in humid areas.

Professional Services
If mold does grow in a home, it can be difficult to remove completely. Mold can grow inside the drywall, in air ducts and inside upholstered furniture. If a home develops mold, it is important for a professional remediation company to inspect and treat the Phoenix mold damage. The professionals at SERVPRO have the training and experience to help a homeowner to remove and prevent future mold growth.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too and are proud to be part of the Scottsdale community. When you have a water or mold damage issue, we’re already nearby and ready to help.

We are also part of a national network of over 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to large scale disasters.

We are here in Phoenix and are ready to help you.  Just call us.

Lightening in Scottsdale, Arizona

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Be safe during a storm this winter in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Although lightning can strike anytime, the chance for lightning increases in the winter months. Stay safe with these basic tips. SERVPRO of Scottsdale wants you to be safe during storms.

• Have a lightning safety plan, and cancel or postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are expected in the area.
• If you do get caught outside, avoid high ground, open spaces, and all metal objects. Stay away from electric wires, fences, etc. Seek shelter in a substantial building or a fully enclosed metal vehicle.
• If you are indoors, stay away from doors and windows. Do not use the telephone. Consider unplugging computers, power tools, & TV sets. Lightning may strike exterior electric/phone lines, inducing shocks to inside equipment.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is a locally owned company that is Here to Help. Give us a call if you have storm damage this winter.

Arizona Monsoon Season - Why do we have them?

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded roads in Scottsdale, AZ

The Arizona Monsoon is a well-defined meteorological event (technically called a meteorological 'singularity') that occurs during the summer throughout the southwest portion of North America.

During the winter time, the primary wind flow in Arizona is from the west or northwest—from California and Nevada. As we move into the summer, the winds shift to a southerly or southeasterly direction. Moisture streams northward from the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. This shift produces a radical change in moisture conditions statewide.

Such a change, together with daytime heating, is the key to the Arizona monsoon. This wind shift is the result of two meteorological changes:

• The movement northward from winter to summer of the huge upper air subtropical high pressure cells, specifically the so-called Bermuda High (H).

• In addition, the intense heating of the desert creates rising air and surface low pressure (called a thermal low) in the Mohave (L).

These two features combine to create strong southerly flow over Arizona. The southerly winds push moisture north-ward from Mexico. The exact source region for the moisture of the Arizona monsoon is unknown.

Researchers have proposed the Gulf of Mexico and/or the Gulf of California as the source regions but conclusive evidence has so far been elusive.This has lead to the creation of large data-collecting efforts and research programs such as SWAMP, the Southwest Area Monsoon Project .

Choosing an Air Purifier To Remove Mold Spores

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Air Filtration System To Control Mold Growth

As you probably know, mold and mildew can ruin the comfort, value and appearance of your Scottsdale, AZ home. Because your house is likely your largest financial investment, you want to do what you can to keep mold growth in check. With an air filtration system, you may be able to remove mold spores before they take hold.

Mold Can Be Virtually Anywhere

Mold reproduces through microscopic spores that easily float on air currents in your house. If you have mold growth somewhere, you can bet that mold spores are trying to travel to other parts of your home. When examining your house for signs of mold growth, look at wet areas. Specifically, inspect the following places for mold:

• Basements
• Crawlspaces
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Garages
• Attics

Air Purifiers Can Catch Spores

If you can trap mold spores before they gather on moist surfaces, you can likely stop mold growth. Unfortunately, though, not all air filtration devices work the same. When choosing an air purifier for your home, opt for one with a HEPA filter. These filters are designed to catch tiny spores and remove them from the air you breathe.

Technology Makes the Process Easier

Mold hates some air purifiers more than others. To effectively remove spores, use technology to your advantage. Think about purchasing a purifier that has a sensor to detect mold. When the sensor activates, the system automatically engages to catch the mold in the air inside your home. If you have excessive mold growth, though, you may need professional help. When you work with a reputable mold remediation service, you have access to both the expertise and equipment you need to keep mold in check.

To protect your financial investment, you must keep your house in tip-top shape. To control mold growth, you can use an air filtration system. When you choose the right air purifier, you know you are catching most of the spores that can destroy your home.

What Should You Do To Clean Up After a Toilet Floods?

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Contact a professional water and sewage company

Nothing can disrupt the calm of your home quite like learning that your toilet is overflowing. It’s not just about the water, although you should be concerned about water damage, but a flooded toilet brings with it a lot of germs and bacteria and can also be a symptom of sewer damage at your home in Scottsdale,AZ . Acting in a timely manner and taking the proper measures can help minimize damage. But just how do you go about cleaning up sewage?

What To Do When You Have a Sewage Leak

• Shut off the water supply if possible
  
• Call for expert help from a sewage company
  
• Clean up the water
  
• Clear the blockage with a plunger or auger
• Clean and disinfect

Sewer damage is responsible for many basement floods in Scottsdale,AZ , annually and can lead to toilets overflowing as well. Hopefully, the toilet was empty and the overflow was caused by a faulty float. More often, you will need to clear a fecal matter or excessive paper blockage from the toilet by using a plunger. If that is not successful, you may need to use an auger - a long snake like device that can wriggle its way though most solid masses, breaking them up and letting them flush clear.

You should call a professional water and sewage company and get help with proper cleaning and drying out your floors and carpets and belongings. They can do a damage assessment and use their commercial strength extraction equipment and fans to remove water and dry things out. Those are the first steps to salvaging your home and it is crucial to make sure they are done properly. They can also help to make sure all contamination has been cleaned or removed from your home, leaving it “like it never even happened.”

Whether from sewer damage or a flooded toilet, a leak or flood is never a pleasant prospect. But with proper help and cleaning, you can rest assured that your home can be restored to safe and condition again.

Commercial Insurance Is Not a One-Size-Fits-All Product

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

Contact your insurance agent in Scottsdale, AZ to see if you are covered

Commercial Insurance Is Not a One-Size-Fits-All Product

The worst time to discover that a business in Scottsdale,AZ, has inadequate property insurance is after a fire. The person responsible for purchasing insurance coverage can expect difficult questions from the partners or directors.

A commercial policy includes coverage for multiple types of property. It describes covered items and specifies the maximum amount the insurer will pay. These coverages include:

• Building
  
• Factory equipment
  
• Inventory
  
• Office equipment
  
• Furnishings
  
• Business interruption
  
• Lost revenue
  
• Business relocation
  
• Theft
  

Determine the Types and Amounts of Coverage Needed
It’s never a bad idea to revisit a commercial insurance policy. Circumstances change, and insurance coverage should change with them. Company executives and the insurance agent should meet and discuss the current coverage. Some areas may require adjustment and a revised quote. Comparison shopping between insurance companies might also be in order at this time.

The Premium Amount Is More Than the Business Can Afford
A significant number of factors go into the determination of an insurance premium. Reduce the risk associated with these factors, and the savings could be substantial. These factors include:

• Tenancy: Buildings with welding or other shops are a higher fire risk than office spaces.
  
• Structure: Wooden structures incur more fire damage than those constructed of fireproof materials.
  
• Location: Fires in buildings close to fire stations receive better fire response than remote areas.
  
• Sprinklers: Buildings with sprinklers experience less fire damage than those without them.
  

If the premium still seems too high, review the types and limits of coverage. Perhaps they can be cut back. However, being underinsured can significantly delay recovery after a fire. It can also leave the business with financial hardship.

Commercial Insurance Is There When You Need It
When a business is fully insured, recovery after a fire is a straightforward process. After contacting the insurer, a local team of fire restoration specialists will speed the recovery.

4 Tips To Prevent Toilets From Flooding

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

Once a toilet or drain line has become clogged, a toilet overflow is all but inevitable. A property owner or manager can take several measures to prevent a clogged toilet. These four tips can reduce the likelihood of sewage damage in a building located in Rio Verde, AZ.

1. Post Disposal Reminders

Occupants and guests of a building may be less likely to flush inappropriate materials if informative signage is visible. State simple rules regarding what should and should not be flushed. Discreet and sanitary alternative disposal methods for items such as diapers or feminine products should be available.

2. Install Waste Containers

Waste containers in bathroom stalls may reduce the frequency with which inappropriate items are flushed. This is particularly important in women's bathrooms. Be sure to regularly empty these containers to ensure that occupants do not end up flushing items due to the lack of another disposal method, leading to a clogged toilet.

3. Provide Thinner Toilet Paper

Thicker toilet paper is less likely to break down and is more likely to cause clogs when used in a commercial setting. Single-ply paper is better suited for bathrooms in large-occupancy facilities. Building owners or managers may also want to install toilet paper dispensers that restrict the number of sheets released at a time.

4. Schedule Drain Cleanings

Depending on the purpose of a commercial structure, it may be advisable to clean drain lines every month or several months. Frequent cleanings are particularly important for food service establishments, where grease may collect in drain lines even if most of this substance is disposed of properly. Greasy substances can block a drain line and result in a backup or overflow.

Following these tips can help property owners and managers prevent sewage backups. If a clogged toilet leads to a toilet overflow, contact a plumber and a cleaning and restoration firm in Rio Verde, AZ.

What to Know About Your Home’s Sewage System

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Simple clogged pipes can be taking care by yourself

What to Know About Your Home’s Sewage System

When it comes to your home in Scottsdale,AZ, sewage cleaning issues can be some of the most disheartening. Fortunately they can also be fixed with the right tools, enough knowledge, and a little time. Here are some important things to know about your home’s system, including when to call in a professional.

1. Clogs Can Affect More Than Just One Area

A clogged pipe can affect more than just one system in your home. For example a clog between the shower and the toilet can lead to toilet overflow when the shower is turned on. Similarly a downstairs sink may flood when an upstairs drain is used. Just because one drain backs up does not necessarily mean that’s where the clog is.

2. Simple Clogs Can Be Cleared on Your Own

Some sewage cleaning can be done on your own. If you know where the clog is there may be tools you can utilize to take care of the issue yourself. Be sure to read all instructions for any tools or cleaners you may be using. Remember, if basic methods don’t work don’t force it. There’s a chance you could cause additional harm to your pipes. In cases like these it’s time to contact a professional.

3. Larger Problems Need Professional Attention

If basic cleaning methods don’t work it’s time to call in a professional. They have the tools and the knowledge to take care of the tough clogs without breaking your home's sewage system. If a leak is found then a water damage professional can be called to clean up any flooding and repair your home.

When it comes to your residence, you’ll want to make sure any sewage cleaning is done the right way to avoid making any problems worse. In some cases you can fix a minor clog yourself, but if it doesn’t work don’t hesitate to call in a professional for help.

What Happens When Fire and Water Damage Combine?

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in North Scottsdale, AZ

Fire damage can destroy building materials and contents. Standing water introduced by fire suppression efforts may cause flooring and furniture to warp and lead to mold growth. Each type of damage intensifies the other, giving rise to a situation that may be difficult for homeowners to remedy. Restoration professionals can repair and restore damage caused by this combination of factors.

Damage Caused By Fire

Fire burns building materials and contents in a structure, causing damage due to excessive heat and exposure to smoke. This type of damage calls for specialized mitigation methods, including:

• Removing ash and soot
  
• Repairing or replacing materials and contents
  
• Eliminating smoke damage
  

Cleanup and restoration should take place as soon as possible after a fire. The presence of water left over from fire suppression efforts may cause a delay.

Damage Caused by Water

A fire hose can dispense anywhere from 300 to 800 gallons of water per minute. Cleaning up after a fire has been extinguished may involve:

• Pumping out standing water
  
• Cleaning ash and soot residue
  
• Drying and dehumidifying
  

It is necessary to remove water before fire damage restoration can proceed. Restoration experts can do so quickly to limit the amount of combined damage and the risk of mold growth.

Combined Damage

Fire and water damage can ruin delicate or porous contents and materials. The following measures may be necessary:

• Tearing out and replacing building materials
  
• Using specialized content cleaning methods
  
• Taking measures to prevent corrosion or rot
  

The presence of both types of damage can pose a challenge to homeowners. It is best to hire a mitigation and restoration company to get the job done.

Fire damage and water damage are likely to be present after a fire at a home in North Scottsdale, AZ. It is important to act quickly to clean up and mitigate both types of damage to prevent conditions from worsening.

How To Care for Commercial Ceiling Tiles

12/2/2018 (Permalink)

Moldy ceiling damage in Mcdowell Mountain,AZ

Think about how often you gaze toward the ceiling at your commercial property in Scottsdale. Likely not as often as you should. Tile discoloration ranges from purely cosmetic to an indicator of tile mold. Here are some things to consider when looking at the ceiling, and what to do next.

What Causes Staining?

There are many possible reasons that the view above you has withered over time. Some common explanations include:

• Water staining is the most frequent cause of a yellow or brown tint. Although this seems innocuous, water damage on the ceiling may point to a larger problem like a leak above resulting in tile mold.
• Ultraviolet lighting, smoke, or extreme heat incurs color changes over time.
• Tile discoloration also naturally happens due to age, typically after about 10 years.
• In addition to changes in color, you may also observe some warping or cracking.

How Is Tile Cleaned?

Cleaning is a more cost effective, faster method of extending the life of the ceiling:

• There are a number of products available for stain removal. Use a damp cloth with a commercial cleaner to wipe down the area. Alternatively, spray on a combination of one part bleach to one part water.
• Depending on the age and the reason for the damage, you may not be able to achieve the desired result by cleaning alone.

When Should the Ceiling Be Replaced?

There are times when replacement is preferable or necessary:

• If you have renovated other parts of the building, there are aesthetic reasons for a change.
• When the origin of discoloration is water damage, replacement is often needed. Due to the porous nature of the tiles, trapped water breeds mold. In this case, work with a mold restoration specialist to ensure that the area is properly contained, cleaned and restored.

Do not ignore tile discoloration at your commercial property in Scottsdale. At the very least, it may need cleaned. If you suspect tile mold due to an underlying problem, consult a professional for proper remediation and replacement.

The Flood Cut: Cutting Your Way Toward Restoration

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

Flood cut due to water damage in a North Scottsdale,AZ home

Restoration Process

Flooding in your home is an emotional roller coaster and one that doesn’t end when the water recedes. The restoration process begins with property removal and the dreaded flood cut, which can leave many homeowners feeling like the restoration process is moving backward instead of forward.

1. What Is a Flood Cut?

A flood cut is a process of exposing wall studs to allow your home structure to dry without the worry of spreading mold and mildew. In order to reveal the studs, a cut must be made above the flood damage, about 12-18 inches, accounting for moisture absorption in the framing and insulation.

2. When Is It Necessary?

Flooding does not always consist of clean water. When a flood is caused by sewage or other polluted water, a flood cut is necessary to avoid contamination. The cut allows crews to remove affected insulation, drywall, and even studs to ensure the health and safety of you and your family.

3. Can It Be Avoided?

If the floodwater is clean water, then it is possible to avoid cutting open your wall, but only if the affected wall does not have insulation. In this instance, crews can drill several small holes into the affected drywall and insert flexible air hoses which used to pump dry, warm air into the cavity, drying the studs and drywall.

4. Is It a DIY Project?

You can try to perform a flood cut on your own, but if the floodwater was composed of sewage water, then it may be a better idea to call emergency restoration services in the North Scottsdale,AZ, area. Sewage water is considered black water, and it presents many health risks to you and your family.

Flooding can cause a lot of damage structurally and personally, but a flood cut should not be looked at as furthering that damage. A cut is actually a step in the right direction, a step toward restoring order in your home, and while you may be able to perform this task on your own, be sure always to consider your safety first.

3 Crucial Steps for Restoring Your Commercial Property After a Fire

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a North Scottsdale,AZ building

Restoring your Commercial Property the Right Way

When a devastating fire wreaks havoc on your North Scottsdale,AZ , building, dealing with the aftermath can be a struggle, both mentally and emotionally. However, it’s vastly important that fire restoration becomes your main priority, as there’s no time to waste when it comes to minimizing the effects on your business. Before making any rash moves, consider these three crucial steps for restoring your commercial property the right way and setting a smart recovery plan into motion.

1. Hire professional board-up services to help prevent further damage to the property. Although you’re sure to be anxious about getting inside the building to inspect the damage, it’s important to stay safe and have fire restoration specialists come in beforehand. They can board up your windows, put tarps over any roof damage, install protective fencing if necessary and take other measures necessary to ensure that the likelihood of more damage is minimal. It’s also crucial for maintaining the scene until an inspection is completed.
   
   
2. Contact the necessary services and gather the right documentation. Though making endless phone calls might be the last thing you want to commit to after your loss, it’s vital that you start getting in touch with building department inspectors, fire department officials, claim adjusters or whomever you need to in order to collect the necessary paperwork and have it ready for your insurance company.
   
   
3. Look over your fire insurance policy and contact your agent immediately. Promptly reporting that damage has occurred to your commercial property is possibly the most crucial, money-saving step. Read over your policy to see if things like water damage or smoke cleaning services are covered under your plan, and let a professional inspect the area to give you an estimate on your property damage.
   

Recovery efforts at your North Scottsdale,AZ, commercial property can seem daunting at first, but maintaining a level head and following these three important methods for fire restoration can help ease the stress and anxiety.

Factors To Consider When Finding the Right Fire Extinguishers

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

A fire extinguisher can prevent major damage to your home in Scottsdale, AZ.

A fire extinguisher can quickly stop a home fire and prevent your home in Scottsdale, from sustaining major damage. However, there are various types of extinguishers, and it’s important to have the right ones in your home so you can react appropriately if a fire occurs.

1. The Extinguisher’s Location

When choosing an extinguisher, you should consider where the extinguisher will be located. Different locations are prone to different types of fires, and this calls for specific kinds of extinguishers. It is also important to remember that every floor needs an extinguisher, and each extinguisher should be placed in a convenient location. Keeping one in an awkward or hard-to-reach location could give a fire time to become unmanageable. The extinguisher must be easy to access in order to be of use.

2. The Type of Potential Fire

Having a fire extinguisher that can be used on different types of fires is a key part of fire preparedness. In a kitchen, having an extinguisher that can handle grease fires is wise, as grease fires often occur when cooking. However, an extinguisher that is meant to stop grease fires should not be used in an electrical fire. Often, purchasing an extinguisher that can stop different types of fire is the best option.

3. The Amount of Space To Protect

Just as you want to have an extinguisher that can protect you from a certain type of fire, you should have an extinguisher that can appropriately cover the area in which it’s located. Extinguishers can range from two pounds to ten pounds in size. For smaller areas, a two-pound extinguisher may be appropriate. For spaces that are not as constrained, a ten-pound extinguisher is preferable.

Ultimately, a fire extinguisher can prevent your home from being damaged and keep you safe. If your home has experienced fire damage, it can be beneficial to work with experts in fire restoration who can help repair your home.

Flood Recovery: When Is It Safe to Return to Work

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration in North Scottsdale,AZ

After a flood, many employees and business owners want to know when they can get back to work, but that depends on the severity of the damage and whether the flooding was caused by black water. In either case, most restoration specialists from North Scottsdale,AZ, follow a similar process to ensure your business returns to normal as soon as possible, but most phases are not conducive to safe operations.

1. Cleanup

During a flood cleanup, it is not wise for employees to be present because, depending on the water classification, they may become severely ill. Black or gray water is common after flooding, and it is often contaminated with chemicals and bacteria that present serious health risks to all. It is best that all personnel who are not trained or certified in disaster cleanup stay away from the facility during the initial cleanup phase.

2. Demolition

During the demolition phase, the restoration company you have hired will remove any elements that may have been contaminated by the black water. This phase will likely require the removal of carpets, drywall, insulation, other furniture and porous items. The facility will not be conducive to regular business operations at this time, and therefore employees and personnel should stay away.

3. Sterilization

The last phase before restoration is sterilization and may be combined with the previous stages. During this phase the entire affected area is scrubbed and disinfected, ensuring a sanitary environment for the restoration efforts. As this phase encompasses the use of strong commercial and chemical cleaners, it is advisable to remain clear of the facility.

4. Restoration

During the restoration phase, the company you hired will be replacing walls, carpets and other essential elements. While it may be challenging to operate depending on the significance of the restoration, you and your employees can return to work during this phase.

As flooding can produce both gray and black water, employees and business owners should allow professionals to handle the cleanup and restoration of the property. During the initial phases of cleanup, demolition and sterilization the business should remain closed, and employees should stay clear, only returning to work when restoration begins.

Making a Water Damage Claim: Five Steps

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

After a broken pipe in your Scottsdale,AZ home review your homeowners insurance policy

If a burst pipe has led to flooding and related damage to your home, you are probably interested in the process involved when making an insurance claim. Read on to learn about 5 important steps you need to take to submit the claim and prepare for an insurance adjuster to arrive.

1. Check Your Insurance Policy

One of the first things that you will want to do after a pipe burst in your Scottsdale,AZ, home is to review your homeowners insurance policy. Water damage is covered by some policies and not others.

2. Call the Insurance Company

If you have learned that you do indeed have flood coverage, the next step is to call your agent to make an insurance claim with the company that handles your policy. If all goes well with your report, an appointment will be set to have the damage surveyed.

3. Take Pictures and Record Damage

Once you learn that an adjuster is coming to evaluate the situation, you will need to get working. Take pictures and record any issues that you find, as these will be valuable resources for the claims team to take into account.

4. Fill out Forms

You may have to fill out claim paperwork before the adjuster arrives. Be as thorough as you need to be, and make sure to meet the stated deadline.

5. Make Repairs

It is usually a good idea to make at least some repairs when you can to preserve your property to the best of your ability before the adjuster arrives at your home. Contacting water damage specialists is often your best bet to get the work completed quickly and accurately.

Filing an insurance claim can be difficult after water ruins your valuables and property. The emotional effects of having your home in danger are challenging enough without going through complicated insurance processes. Remembering the steps above will help you to better understand what is involved and how to accurately file a claim so you can figure out a way to move forward.

Know the Mold Growth You’re Dealing With

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Scottsdale, AZ home

It’s well-established that homeowners should immediately remediate mold when it appears. What’s not as well known is that there are different types of mold growth of varying severity. In Scottsdale,AZ, there are excellent remediation specialists who can assess your situation and clean up the problem.

Different Types of Mold

Mold usually forms where there is moisture and an amenable surface to grow on. Identifying a particular type of mold usually comes down to color, texture, and where the mold is forming. The following are mold types you might see in your home:

• Acremonium has a powdery or moist texture, forms in systems producing condensation, and is extremely toxic.
• Aureobasidium forms on wallpaper and wood, is pink, brown, or black, and is allergenic.
• Chaetomium appears in homes damaged by water. This mold growth has a cotton texture and can cause skin infections.
• Cladosporium forms on fabrics, upholstery and carpet, is allergenic, and has a suede texture.
• Fusarium appears after flooding or leaks on carpeting, wallpaper and food, is highly toxic, and is pink, white, or red.
• Stachybotrys is highly toxic, forms on wood or paper surfaces, and has a slimy texture.
• Trichoderma forms on fabrics and in HVAC systems, has a wooly texture, and is allergenic.
• Ulocladium forms in kitchens, bathrooms, or windows and is black in color.

There are many types of mold that can grow in your home. The trick is knowing which are harmful.

Where Does Mold Come From?

Mold spores enter your home through air ducts and other openings. In the presence of high humidity, moisture, or water damage, however, they can proliferate and you may notice a growth. At this point, it can be helpful to know how serious the mold you’re dealing with is, and a professional remediation team can assist you by examining the growth and providing solutions to deal with it.

Identifying the mold that is forming in your home can help you have an informed conversation with your remediation specialist. This in turn can ensure the mold growth is cleaned up before it becomes a problem. 

Storm Shutters: A Guide

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Be prepared for any storm damage in Scottsdale, AZ

If you are a homeowner who often has concerns about high winds from storms in North Scottsdale,AZ, you may be wondering if storm shutters are something that you should consider adding to your house. If you are concerned about your windows’ appearance and safety, it is usually a good idea to consider adding this useful piece of equipment. Read on to learn more about different types and what they cost.

What Are They?

Storm shutters cover your windows in a way that protects them from winds and other storm damage. They will not provide shelter from the most extreme storms, such as Category 5 hurricanes, but they do a fantastic job of securing windows in most high wind situations.

What Kinds Are There?

There are numerous types of shutters to meet the needs of different houses, climates and budgets. Some common offerings include the following:

• Plywood - meet last-minute needs and cost approximately less than $1 per square foot
• Colonial - permanent, eye-catching, customizable and usually priced per window at $200-$500
• Storm Panel - temporary and made of durable materials, with some panels costing only $7 per piece
• Rolling Shutters - made of sturdy bicarbonate or metal and among the best options for high winds and hurricane-heavy climates, with the low price range being around $20 per square foot
• Accordion - permanent, operated by homeowners and highly affordable at $15-25 per square foot
• Bahama –great for hot climates and attractive like Colonials, costing between $200 and $1000 per piece

What Takeaways Should I Remember?

Storm damage can be fixed by North Scottsdale,AZ, cleanup professionals in many cases, but it always pays to be prepared ahead of time for the ultimate defense from high winds. With so many choices and price ranges available, it is a good idea to consider some of these selections to safeguard your valuable investment and your family.

How To Protect Your Business From Water Damage

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Home suffered water loss due to broken pipe in Rio Verde,AZ

Every business in Rio Verde, AZ, is susceptible to water damage. While clean water leaks are usually manageable, flooding and broken pipes can cause significant destruction and interrupt normal business operations. To prepare for potential problems, every business owner should understand common sources of water damage and how to minimize their risk.

Sources of Water Damage

Water damage can originate from clean water sources, such as broken pipes and leaking water supply lines, as well as grey and black water. Examples of grey water sources include sump pump backups and overflowing dishwashers, washing machines and unsoiled toilet bowls. Black water carries harmful bacteria and is unsanitary. Sewage backups and flooded lakes and rivers are examples of black water sources.

Protecting Water Pipes

During the winter, your building’s pipes are susceptible to freezing and bursting. To minimize your risk of a broken pipe, take the following actions:

• Insulate pipes located near external walls with rubber or fiberglass sleeves
• Drain pipes that will not be utilized during the season
• Maintain minimum temperature of 40? throughout building
• Check antifreeze levels in anti-freeze sprinkler system

Minimize Risk of Clogged Pipes

Clogged pipes can result in black and grey water overflows. To safeguard your building from this destruction, take the following precautions:

• Ensure no one flushes paper towels or feminine hygiene products
• Avoid planting trees and shrubs near water and sewer lines to prevent root intrusion
• Refrain from pouring grease down any onsite kitchen sinks

Clogs can also occur in your sprinkler or HVAC system. To prevent this, you should complete routine maintenance on this equipment to ensure there are no obstructions or other issues that could result in water leakage.

The Cleanup Process

Water damage resulting from both contaminated and clean water sources requires prompt action to prevent mold growth. This includes removing saturated materials and drying the water-damaged space. If grey or black water is involved, you must also thoroughly disinfect the affected area to eliminate potentially harmful bacteria. A cleanup and restoration expert can help you accomplish this daunting task, allowing you to focus on business operations instead of the restoration process.

Storm Preparation in Scottsdale, Arizona

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Monsoon season is just about coming to an end here in Scottsdale, AZ. Last month was filled with a number of storms rolling through Scottsdale (and the Greater Phoenix area) which caused a large amount of damages such as: knocked down power lines, fallen trees, damaged roofs, and flooded buildings. Monsoon season in Arizona typically lasts from June to September with peak season being mid-June to mid-August. These storms bring strong winds, blowing dust storms, lightning, and heavy floods. Here are some tips to help homeowners and commercial property owners prepare for incoming storms.

• Be sure to check your roof drains to make sure they’re free of debris so that rain doesn’t collect on your roof.
• Tend to trees around your property to make sure they are trimmed and thinned out. You may also want to consider removing large trees close to your home that have the potential of falling and causing damage to your building structure or vehicle.
• Before a storm approaches, make sure your outdoor furniture, BBQ grills, etc., are tied down and secured. You may also want to store small outdoor items in your garage so they don’t get carried off in heavy wind gusts. The last thing you want to do is fetch your patio furniture from down the street.
• If your home or business is situated in a lower elevation, you should consider stocking up on sandbags to prevent flooding around your home or office building.
• Prepare an emergency kit just in case to include items such as: flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, water and non-perishable food items.
• Avoid traveling at all costs during a storm. If you must drive, do not attempt to enter flooded roadways. Try finding a safe spot away from trees and wait for the storm to pass before you continue on the road.

These are just several storm preparation tips to consider. If you are experiencing any storm damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Scottsdale. We offer residential and commercial restoration and cleaning services. When you have a cleaning or restoration need, we’re ready to help 24/7 to quickly make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call us at (480) 998-7989 or visit us at www.SERVPROScottsdale.com to learn more about Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration.

Prevent Kitchen Fires

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

Let’s be honest, not all of us are a “Top Chef” when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. With food delivery services on the rise, we’re able to have a prepared meal delivered right to our door without ever having to leave the comforts of our home. And let’s not forget all the amazing dining options Scottsdale has to offer when we feel like venturing out in the hot Arizona sun. But every now and then, we’ve got to put our cooking skills to use, right? And no, unfortunately boiling water does not count.

Cooking is the main cause of fire injuries and home fires. What can start as a small grease fire can spread and ultimately turn into a large-scale fire that could overcome your home and lead to serious injuries. Here are several tips that we recommend to prevent kitchen fires in your Scottsdale home.

1. Install a smoke detector near your kitchen. It doesn’t have to be in the actual kitchen as you don’t want smoke from toast burning in your toaster to trigger it. You want it to be close enough to the kitchen so that it can detect an actual kitchen fire.

2. If you’re wearing long sleeves, roll them up! If you have long hair, tie it back.

3. Do not place dish towels, pot holders or paper towel close to your stove.

4. When using the stove, never leave it unattended. Yes, even when you’re boiling water. It’s very easy to become distracted that you can easily forget it’s in use.

5. Always turn the pan handles toward the back of the stove that way you don’t accidentally knock a hot pan off. This is especially important when you have small children around as you don’t want any fire injuries to occur.

6. Watch the heat. If the pan is too hot, the grease will start to boil, then it will start to smoke, and a fire could potentially start from there. The key here is prevention. Watch the heat closely. When the grease starts to boil and/or smoke, turn the heat down and remove from the burner. If a fire does start, NEVER use water to extinguish. Instead, cover with a lid and remove from heat.

It’s important to note all the precautions and safety measures when it comes to cooking to keep you and your family safe. If a fire does start and the flames start to spread, do not try and put it out. Instead, have you and your family evacuated immediately and call 911. In the event of fire damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Scottsdale to provide fire damage restoration services. Contact us for more info at 480-998-7989. We are always here to help. 

Prevent Water Damage

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Imagine that you've just arrived back to your Scottsdale home after a vacation with your family. You're relaxed, rejuvenated and ready to get back to the grind. As soon as you step into your home, you see that the floor is completely soaked. No one wants to see their home turned into a swimming pool. You are now in emergency mode and have no idea what to do. How much will this cost? Who do I call? What do I do? Most insurance policies cover basic water damage claims but still, going through this process can be very time consuming, stressful and exhausting. We put together some tips we thought would be helpful to help you avoid this type of ordeal all together. Here are some helpful tips to prevent water damage in your Scottsdale home.

1. Clean Out Roof Gutters

Make sure to clean your gutters out, especially during monsoon season. You want to avoid blockages as standing water can cause damage to your gutters and roof. Eventually, the water collecting in the gutters can trickle down causing unmanaged overflows which could potentially damage the foundation of your home.

2. Understand Your Water Main

Know where to locate your water main so if a situation arises where you need to shut it off, you know where and how to do so. Also, if you’re planning on leaving your home for an extended period, it would be wise to shut off the water to avoid any leaks that could potentially happen while you’re away.

3. Check Appliances Regularly

Be sure to inspect appliances such as your dishwasher, refrigerator, water heater and toilets to ensure that they are not leaking. If you notice excess moisture accumulating, be sure to have it inspected and fixed right away. Do not put it on hold.

4. Check Your Water Bill

Your home is riddled with water pipes which are hidden in the walls and floors. You may not know there is a leak until it’s too late. What you can do is check your water bill each month and make note of any noticeable changes or increases you’re seeing. If your water bill is high and you haven’t increased your water usage, chances are that there is a water leak somewhere.

5. Use a Drain Snake

You may notice when your shower or sink is clogged and is taking a long time to drain. When this happens, avoid using liquid drain cleaners as the harsh chemicals can eat away at the pipes which, in the long run, can be pretty damaging to your pipes. Instead, take the safer route and invest in an inexpensive drain snake which you can find at your local home improvement store. The drain snake is an excellent tool in helping you clear clogged drains.

These are just a few tips we suggest for preventing water damage in your home. But if you do happen to encounter water damage, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call at (480) 998-7989. We are always here to help 24/7. 

Monsoon Safety Tips

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Scottsdale, AZ has seen quite a bit of storm activity during this monsoon season, especially within this past month, from dust storms, flooded roadways, downed trees and power lines, and power outages. These monsoon storms can happen at a moments notice and can catch you off guard while you're out and about. Whether it's a dust storm, minor flooding in low lying/flood prone areas or a flash flood, it's important to know what to do while you're away from your home. Here are five helpful tips to help Scottsdale residents avoid getting stuck in what could be a disastrous situation.

1. Keep up-to-date with the weather to know when a storm is expected to hit the area. This allows you to plan your activities wisely. It's also helpful to keep the "Emergency Alerts" notification enabled on your smartphone so that you can be alerted of a Dust Storm or Flash Flood warning.

2. Check your vehicle's windshield wipers to make sure they are in good condition and replace if necessary.

3. If you find yourself on the road during a dust storm, pull over to a safe spot far away from the road, set the parking brake and turn off your lights. You do not want to confuse vehicles driving behind you who may not know you're parked which may lead to them stricking your vehicle from behind.

4. DO NOT enter flooded roadways with your vehicle as you don't know how deep the water is. No matter how big your vehicle is and you think you can make it through, don't. 2 feet of water can cause your car to float so it is best to turn around and find an alternate route. Pay attention to road closure signs and do not drive around them.

5. DO NOT stand or walk in moving or standing water. It only takes 6 inches of water to knock you off your feet.

6. If your vehicle gets stuck in flooded waters and the water is not moving, leave the vehicle and head to higher ground. If the water is moving, stay in your vehicle until help arrives.

These are just several safety tips to consider when you are caught out and about in a storm. If you are experiencing any storm damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Scottsdale. We offer residential and commercial restoration and cleaning services. When you have a cleaning or restoration need, we’re ready to help 24/7 to quickly make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call us at (480) 998-7989 or visit us at www.SERVPROScottsdale.com to learn more about Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration.

Tips To Prevent A Dryer Fire

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Scottsdale homeowners, when was the last time you cleaned out the lint filter in your clothes dryer at your home? Yesterday? Last week? Last month? What kind of vent hose do you have? Better yet, when was the last time you had your dryer vent and exhaust system inspected? According to the U.S Fire Administration, nearly 3,000 clothes dryer fires are reported each year, resulting in an annual estimate of $35 million in property loss. Here are several tips to inform Scottsdale homeowners on how to prevent a dryer fire to protect your home and most importantly, your family.

Clean Out The Lint

This is something you want to incorporate into your routine each and every time you do your laundry. Over time, lint buildup in the filter can catch fire and can lead to extremely dangerous results and tremendous damage. A little routine lint cleanup can go a long way.

Remove Flammables Near Dryer

It's very important to remember not to store items on top of the dryer such as clothing, towels, blankets, etc., in order to avoid these items potentially catching on fire. You also want to make sure to clean the lint on the dryer and to sweep around the dryer to get the lint that may be collecting underneath. In addition, be sure to store flammables (such as household cleaners) away from your dryer to avoid adding more fuel to a fire in the event of one starting.

Inspect Vent Hose

Be sure to inspect the vent hose behind the dryer to make sure it's still intact and in good condition. You want to make sure that you're not using a plastic or a foil accordion style hose. If you are, make sure to replace with a metal hose as these are more durable and will prevent lint buildup on the inside of the hose.

Annual Servicing

So you cleaned out the lint filter – awesome! Now have you cleaned and inspected the venting and exhaust system? Experts recommend inspecting and cleaning every year. If you're not sure how to do so, don't sweat it. You can always contact a qualified professional to clean and inspect to make sure everything is tip top.

Don't Leave Dryer Unattended

We all lead busy, hectic lives and want to accomplish all the tasks on our daily list of things to do. Whether you need to leave the house to pick up the kids from school or run to the grocery store, it's extremely important to never leave the drying running unattended. 

If you have any questions or would like additional information on Fire Damage, feel free to call SERVPRO of Scottsdale at (480) 998-7989 or visit us at www.SERVPROScottsdale.com to learn more. We are available 24/7 to quickly make it “Like It Never Even Happened.”

How the Pros Will Clean up After Your Water Damage

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

To take care of water damage after a flood, call the professionals.

Sometimes, no matter what measures you put in place water can find its way into your home. It can happen after a large rainstorm, or it can happen due to broken pipes or other plumbing issues. Water can affect flooring, drywall and many of your personal items. Though water damage can be costly, it doesn’t have to be permanent. When you choose an experienced professional to help with the cleanup, you can have peace of mind.

Inspect the Area

The first step the pros will take will be thoroughly assessing the affected area in your Scottsdale, AZ, home. The tech will do the following:

• Identify how water got into your home.
• Identify the type of water that caused the damage.
• Evaluate how extensive the damage was.
• Get any furniture out of harm’s way.

Extract the Water

Once the technician takes care of the inspection and evaluation, it’s time for water cleanup. A trained technician will bring heavy-duty equipment and will use powerful chemicals and methods to ensure you won’t have to worry about residual water in your Scottsdale, AZ, home. The tech will remove excess water using pumps and a wet vac or high-powered extraction machine. This highly trained professional may also use cameras in walls to identify hidden water in those difficult-to-see places.

Drying

Removing the water isn’t enough to take care of all water damage. It’s essential that the professional completely dry the area to inhibit the growth of mold or other bacteria. The technician will use industrial-strength dryers and humidifiers to dry the flooring, walls or other wet areas.

Sanitize

The final step in this comprehensive process is cleaning the affected area. This will help ensure your space is once again livable. To do this, the professional company will use both dry cleaning and wet cleaning of carpet, pads, hardwood, walls and anywhere else where water has caused damage. To mitigate bad smells, the cleanup company will use scrubbers and deodorizers.

To take care of water damage after a flood, call the professionals. They’ll use a reliable process to get your home looking great again. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com/.

How To Prevent Plumbing Issues on Your Commercial Property

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

It is important to spend money wisely in business, and when you take the necessary measures to prevent plumbing problems on your commercial property.

As a business owner in Scottsdale, AZ, you have a vested interest in knowing everything that goes on in your building. Plumbing problems are no exception. The cost of a broken pipe or an undetected leak can put a big dent in your budget, especially if your insurance doesn’t end up covering it. Your best bet for minimizing plumbing costs is to prevent small issues from becoming large ones.

Common Problems

There are many things that could lead to water damage on your property. Most problems are caused simply by parts that wear out:

• Maladjusted water heater
• Worn-out O-rings on faucets
• Loose seal on flapper in toilet
• Faulty gaskets

Just about every part eventually has to be replaced, and failure to do so can result in major plumbing problems. Foundation issues, poor construction, and even your building’s age can also contribute to complications with your pipes and fixtures.

Best Solutions

Preventative maintenance and early detection are the keys to protecting your building from water damage. Hire and develop a good working relationship with your plumber before you need his or her services. Plumbers can conduct regular checks and maintenance on your property. The minute you know there is a problem, shut off the water main and call water restoration specialists to take care of it while it’s still small. Your quick response time can mean the difference between a leaky pipe that makes it necessary to replace some of your insulation and a deluge that involves replacing a significant portion of the walls and flooring.

It is important to spend money wisely in business, and when you take the necessary measures to prevent plumbing problems on your commercial property, you are doing just that. No matter how much quality plumbing maintenance costs you, it is nothing compared to the potentially astronomical cost of repairing water damage from an unresolved issue. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com/.

Everything You Need To Know About Flood Cuts

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

If you experience a flood at your place of business, a flood cut may be necessary to reduce further contamination.

There isn’t anywhere that’s completely safe from flooding, since it can originate from inside or outside of your Scottsdale, AZ, business. When pipes burst, or roof damage lets a heavy rain pour in, you may find yourself with water rising and climbing the interior walls of your building. If it’s not repaired quickly and correctly, this kind of soaking can lead to certain problems:

• Bacteria growth
• Internal deterioration
• Unpleasant smells and appearance

What Is a Flood Cut?

When drywall comes in contact with water, moisture can accumulate behind the walls, so your cleanup contractor may have to tear out portions of it to complete the restoration. In order to do the most effective job possible, experts often cut away a section that extends 12 to 18 inches above the highest point where the flooding reached. This is called making a flood cut.

When Is a Flood Cut Needed?

When you’re faced with a disaster that keeps you from carrying out your daily tasks in Scottsdale, AZ, you want to get back in business as soon as possible. After all, every day that you can’t safely work in your office or shop is a day that you’re not turning a profit. However, you also want to know that the repairs are made correctly and completely to avoid any further or future contamination. This is an especially serious concern if the water was dirty or contained sewage material. Though it’s not necessary in every case, making a flood cut may be the only way to be sure you won’t see lingering or reoccurring effects from flooding.

One common concern businesses express about flood cuts is the amount of material the contractor plans to remove. Communicate with your renovation company if you are concerned about this. Reliable, trustworthy professionals should be able to show you the area they plan to tear out and explain why they feel it’s necessary.

If you experience a flood at your place of business, a flood cut may be necessary to reduce further contamination. Work with your cleanup crew to determine the best and quickest methods to get your workspace back in order. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com/.

4 Reasons You Shouldn't Trust a Home Testing Kit

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

If you suspect there's a fungus growth in your home, you may want to have mold testing done.

4 Reasons You Shouldn't Trust a Home Testing Kit

There's been a musty smell lingering in your Scottsdale, AZ, home, so you decide to do some investigation. After a preliminary search of the house, you can't find any mold. You decide to get a DIY mold test kit to get to the bottom of your dilemma. You follow all of the steps and your results are in. There's mold in your house! While this may be true, a home mold testing kit actually isn't that accurate. Here are four reasons you should work with a mold remediation team and a certified environmental hygienist instead.

1. Mold spores exist everywhere. They float around indoors and outdoors. When a mold kit comes back positive, it could mean there's growth in your house, but the kit could also be picking up the naturally occurring spores from the air.
2. You don't know how old the tests are. Most mold testing kits don't use a dating system. This means your kit could have been sitting on warehouse and store shelves for years. The longer a product like this lies around unused the greater chance it has been contaminated. The positive results could be from mold spores that found their way into the box years ago.
3. The findings aren't explained. When you work with a professional team, you can get all of your questions answered. The experts can go over the meaning of the results and help you understand what your next move should be. A mold kit, however, simply comes back as positive or negative without much explanation.
4. It won't tell you where the mold is. Even if the test results are accurate, you still don't know where to look to find the growth. Sure, it might help you find out there's mold growth, but it doesn't help you get any closer to a solution.

If you suspect there's a fungus growth in your home, you may want to have mold testing done. It's best to work with a certified environmental hygienist rather than do a DIY mold test. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com/.

Only You Can Prevent a Cigarette Fire

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

The most common cause of house fires in Scottsdale AZ, is from cigarettes, usually from smoking in bed.

The most common cause of house fires in Scottsdale AZ, is from cigarettes, usually from smoking in bed. A cigarette fire can ignite bedding, curtains, or paper trash if not disposed of properly.

Residential fires are for the most part easy to both prepare for and prevent by taking a few simple safety measures and using good common sense. Should the worst happen, however, there are various places to turn to help get your life back together.

Tips To Prevent Fires

• Never smoke in bed.
• Smoke outside whenever possible, or next to a cracked window if the weather doesn’t allow.
• Always make certain the cigarette fire is fully extinguished. Running it under a tap before throwing it in the trash will ensure no paper waste catches lingering embers.
• Don’t toss a cigarette that’s potentially still burning into your garden.
• Regularly cleaning the ashtray will help prevent an ashtray fire and keep it free of residue. Filling it with sand will also ensure the cigarette is completely out.

What To Do If a Fire Occurs

Should a cigarette fire break out, it’s not the end of the world. First, call your insurance company to file a claim. They may also be able to recommend disaster and restoration companies for fire cleanup. Some other actions you can take are as follows:

• Get a copy of the fire report from the fire department.
• Carefully go through the damaged areas to recover undamaged or salvageable items.
• Air rooms out as much as possible to avoid further smoke damage to both your home and your lungs.

There are several ways to avoid disaster, including reviewing your homeowners or rental insurance policies to ensure that they provide coverage for fire cleanup and property loss. Also, keep all important documents in a fire-proof safe or a bank safety deposit vault. This is good advice for anyone, smokers and nonsmokers alike, and will prevent the complicated process of replacing documents such as Social Security cards and birth certificates. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com/.

Prevention Is the Best Mold Cleanup Technique

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

What's the best way to get mold out of your home in Scottsdale, AZ? Don't give it a chance to start growing. Sometimes you don't realize the need for mold prevention until you have to deal with a major remediation. After a cleanup, your residential mold remediation team may be able to give you tips you can use to prevent mold from returning to your home.

Avoid Water Damage

Excess water creates a great place for mold to start growing. In fact, spores need to land on a wet surface to start growing in a new place. If you can prevent water damage, you have taken away one of the necessities of this fungus. Of course, some water problems happen quickly and without warning, but you can keep these tips in mind as you try to prevent water issues:

• Clean out your gutters
• Avoid planting trees too close to the foundation
• Hire a plumber to address leaks as soon as possible
• Make fixes to your roof quickly
• Test your sump pump regularly
• Turn off the water supply before going out of town

Mold prevention requires you to think ahead and act without hesitation.

Control Humidity

Excess moisture can also come in the form of high humidity. Mold growth can be kick-started by high levels of moisture in the air. You can prevent this type of water problem by running your HVAC system or using a dehumidifier in your home. The goal should be to keep your home's humidity level at or below 45 percent.

Reduce Clutter

It may sound silly, but cutting back on clutter can actually help stop mold growth. Too much stuff laying around your house can reduce circulation, which limits the effectiveness of your HVAC unit. Some clutter could even encourage condensation.

If you want to easily take care of a mold problem, you need to start practicing mold prevention. Stopping mold from growing is the best way to take care of the fungus. Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on mold. 

Top 3 Things You Should Know About Water Damage

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

This facility had a massive water damage and SERVPRO of Scottsdale was called to cleanup.

Flooding and the subsequent water damage can be a major pain for Scottsdale, AZ homeowners. While you may hope to never have to deal with water damage, the fact is you may want to know a bit about the process surrounding floods. You can work with a residential water damage specialist to learn more about the damage and cleanup, or you can turn to this quick guide.

Why It Happens

Water damage can be caused by a myriad of situations, including the following:

" A pipe burst or other plumbing issues
" Water collection in basements, crawlspaces or attics
" Natural disasters
" Problems with a dishwasher, washing machine or other appliances
" Sewer backups

Understanding a bit about why water damage takes place may help you prepare for the problems.

How To Clean Up

The cleanup process after a residential flood may vary based on the cause of the water. If it was a pipe bursting, for example, you may have to remove your belongings from the house to allow them to dry out. Carpets and other flooring may also have to be torn out to better clean up the damage done by the water. If the damage was done by a sewer backup, the cleaning process may require a few more steps. Because your needs may vary so much, it is important for you to work with a team that knows what to do no matter the situation.

What To Know About Restoration

After you have cleaned up the initial mess of the flooding, the work may not be over. Depending on the extent of the water damage, your home may need to be restored. For example, if some of the drywall had to be taken out to avoid mold growth, the restoration will include replacing the drywall. The size of the restoration can vary based on the source of the water. A water line problem, for example, could encompass a larger portion of your home than a leaky shower.

Learning more about water damage can help you better prepare for floods, a burst pipe or other sources of excessive water. It's better to learn about the issues before you have to deal with them. Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on water damage. 

Be Smart and Implement These Bad-Weather Prep Tips for Safe Operations

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

This facility had a water loss situation and our team was called in to handle the clean up.

If your business is in an area prone to bad weather such as excessive snowfall, icy roads, flooding or other natural disasters, you need to be smart and plan for bad weather. Not only can inclement conditions be dangerous for your employees, but it can also be devastating to your building’s structure. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize damage, protect employees and keep your Scottsdale, AZ business operating as usual even in an intense snowstorm. Here are a few key steps:

• Develop a business operations plan
• Invest in the right protection
• Remove snow
• Watch the weather

Have a Continuity Plan in Place

Some winter storms have been known to last for weeks at a time, and many are so severe that they prevent individuals from driving. While you cannot ask your employees to head to the office in the middle of a blizzard, you can ask them to work from home when the roads are icy and visibility is poor. Have a business plan in place that everyone can adhere to on snow days. This plan should include who is responsible for what when out of office, how work should be submitted and how and how often data backup should be performed.

Invest in Protection

Your business should have storm windows, storm doors, new and working gutters, lightning rods and storm drains. You should also invest in a generator or other source of backup power so that, at the very least, your heater can continue operating in a snow storm and prevent a pipe burst.

Remove snow

Snow that is allowed to accumulate on the roof or sidewalks can be dangerous to your building, employees and customers. Hire a snow removal company to keep your roof, sidewalks and areas around your building clear.

Watch the Weather

When a storm is in the forecast, shut the storm windows and doors, unplug appliances and electronics, back up your data and send your employees home. By planning ahead, you can prevent costly losses and unnecessary injuries.

Make sure your business is ready for bad winter weather. With the right planning, you can continue operating in a snowstorm.
Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on commercial storm damage. 

4 Tips for Keeping Mold Out of Your Rental Unit

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Whether you rent out an apartment or a commercial space, you have to do what you can to keep the unit looking nice. Mold prevention can be hard if the space is not used for a while. Even with regular tenants, mold growth due to water damage is a real concern for building owners in Scottsdale, AZ.

1. Lower the Heat

If a building is going to be unoccupied for a while, you may want to turn down the heat or air conditioning. However, you should avoid turning off the HVAC unit completely. The AC and heat can act as humidity stabilizers. This helps ensure there is not an excess buildup of moisture in a unit.

2. Turn Off the Water

When a building is not getting regular use, it might be a good idea to turn off the water. This reduces the chances of water damage taking place due to a leaky faucet or burst pipe. Turning off the water is not only a good mold prevention tactic, but it could also help you save money as you try to rent out the space.

3. Respond Quickly to Concerns

If a tenant complains about a mildew smell or water issues, you should try to respond as quickly as possible. Catching a problem while it is small may make the fix easier. If there is mold, it is best to start cleaning it up as soon as possible. Leaving it for weeks or months could allow it to spread to other parts of your building.

4. Schedule Regular Cleanings and Inspections

Being proactive is one of the best prevention methods available. Hiring a cleaning team that specializes in mold remediation may help you find out about mold problems before the issue can cause real damage. You may want to have your buildings inspected once every year.

Mold growth can happen overnight, especially when water damage is involved. Taking a hands-on approach to mold prevention may help you minimize the problems caused by unwanted fungi. Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on mold. 

2 Important Steps To Take After a Fire

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

What would you do if your business in Scottsdale, AZ suffered a fire? If you practice wise administrative planning strategies and follow federal laws, you already have an emergency action plan in place. Once the blaze has been put out, however, you need to pay just as much attention to fire restoration strategies that get your business back in gear. Understanding the role that restoration technicians and your insurance company will play in the aftermath of a disaster is critical.

Contact Your Insurance Company

The property portion of your business owner's or commercial policy covers expenses from fire and explosion losses, including repairing and replacing structures, assets and equipment. Once the fire department has left, your first phone call should be to your insurance company. Representatives will request some initial information from you to start the claims process, then have you work with an adjuster. If you need to recover critical items such as petty cash or records, consult with your insurance reps.

Get in Touch With a Restoration Professional

Now that you’ve invoked the claims process, you need to contact a fire restoration professional to begin cleanup. During this segment of the recovery process, restoration technicians will:

• Inspect and assess your premises
• Board up and place tarps on impacted areas
• Extract water and dry affected surfaces
• Remove smoke and soot damage
• Clean and sanitize
• Repair and replace destroyed areas

Fires on your commercial property in Scottsdale, AZ can be devastating, but it is possible to return to normal operations after this sort of disaster. Having comprehensive indemnity coverage that includes fire insurance as well as fire restoration professionals proficient in water, soot and smoke cleaning are both essentials in getting back to business. You’ll need to work with both insurance and disaster recovery experts for documenting your losses and aiding them in handling replacement and repairs.
Visit  http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on commercial fire damage. 

What Is the 5-Step Mold Remediation Process?

12/2/2017 (Permalink)

What Is the 5-Step Mold Remediation Process?

If you're in Scottsdale, AZ dealing with black mold, then you might want to understand the mold remediation process. That's the industry name for an established set of mold cleanup procedures that have the best chance to:

Improve air quality
Restore like-new appearances
Remove the maximum amount of mold

1. Isolation

Quarantining affected areas begins with identifying them. This typically involves a black mold expert coming to your home to perform a thorough inspection. Containment is an important step towards tackling the problem.

2. Safety

Safety usually comes first. However, in the case of mold remediation, protection tends to be necessary at every step of the process. Protective measures depend on the extent and type of the infestation, but they often include:

Ventilation
Respiratory gear
Evacuation of the site
Protective clothing

3. Removal

Teardown procedures for your home might be as simple as removing some drywall. However, more involved measures might be necessary, such as structural replacement or interior refinishing. Mold is rarely a superficial problem, especially when it gets to the point where you might consider calling a professional.

4. Cleanup

You might think the term 'cleanup' is applicable to the entire job of mold removal, but this step is more precise. Black mold technicians select appropriate chemicals to clean each type of affected material and its surroundings before proceeding with any final steps. The reason: mold starts out in microscopic quantities; it's not enough to simply remove what you can see.

5. Drying

Mold loves moisture, so getting rid of its habitat is an important step. This is especially true if the area needs to be closed up, caulked over or painted. Professional driers and monitoring equipment are a big help at this stage.

Mold remediation might be a fancy term for mold cleanup, but there's nothing elegant about removing mold from a home. It's a practical process that often requires experience, equipment and know-how to pull off effectively. Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on mold.

Best Practices for Removing Standing Water From a Basement

12/2/2017 (Permalink)

Best Practices for Removing Standing Water From a Basement

In most cases, people tend to think of water as a good thing: great for drinking and recreation, and beautiful to view in a lake or river. Water, however, is the most basic of solvents, and in the wrong place, such as in the basement of a commercial building, it can cause a lot of damage. When flooding occurs in Scottsdale, AZ whether from a storm or a broken plumbing system, specialized equipment needs to be employed, and fast. Trained experts will be able to bring in powerful tools to clean up the damage and remove standing water. Here are four tools of the trade to aid in the cleanup process when the water is 2 feet or higher.

Powerful Pumps. An industrial sump pump is one of the most effective items a professional cleaning team can bring in to remove water. A strong submersible pump can remove thousands of gallons from the property quickly. By getting the water out rapidly, the chance of further damage and mold development is greatly diminished. A trash pump is another piece of equipment that will accelerate the cleanup.

Truck Mounts. By using powerful units mounted onto trucks, a flood water cleanup team can quickly remove basement water and use strong wet and dry vacuums. These machines have the advantage of flexibility and efficiency.

Infrared Cameras. Infrared technology can determine how much moisture is still in the building after the standing water has been removed. While the water may not be visible to the naked eye, water behind basement walls and ceilings can cause extra humidity and attract insect pests, vermin and harmful bacteria.

Moisture Detectors and Hygrometers. These devices measure the level of moisture saturation in the building after the initial cleanup. This can help determine whether it would be beneficial to run vacuums and drying fans for additional time.

These four essential pieces of cleaning equipment will remove standing water from the basement of any Scottsdale, AZ commercial building, helping property owners better protect their investments. Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on water damage.

Why Calling the Professionals is Your Best Move When it Comes to Water Damage

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Why Calling the Professionals is Your Best Move When it Comes to Water Damage

Together with fire and storm damage, water damage is one of the leading causes of property losses in the United States. Each year, tens of billions of dollars in damages occur at private residences and businesses due to flood damage. This makes it crucial for the public at large to understand the proper steps to take in case of a flood damage event, when hours and days can often spell the difference between a relatively inexpensive recovery and a total write off of the property.

Fortunately, there are many professional restoration companies throughout the United States that have the expertise, manpower and equipment to properly handle any water damage event. Almost every town in America has a professional restoration company. And the first thing that any property owner should do when facing potential water damage is to call in the professionals.

Let's take a closer look at the process that a property owner can expect their local professional restoration company to follow whenever they have been called in for the restoration or mitigation of water damage.

When flood damage occurs, make the call!


It almost cannot be emphasized enough that attempting to handle the restoration and mitigation of flood damage by oneself is almost always the wrong choice. It is crucial to call your local restoration company as soon as water in your home or water in your business that may potentially lead to flood damage is noticed.

Upon receiving the call about a flooded home or business, the restoration company will send a team of water damage restoration and mitigation specialists to the site of the flooded home or business. The water cleanup team will typically arrive within 30 minutes of the call being received and will immediately begin mitigation efforts.

The team will go directly to the source of the original pipe break or supply line break and will shut off any active leak. They have the tools and training necessary to quickly stop the flow of water, even if this means that emergency welding or pipe cutting needs to take place at the site of the pipe break or supply line break.

The team will also note the level of flood water in the business or water in the home. They will classify the water and form a plan to remove it as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Large-scale removal of standing water


Next, the water cleanup team will begin the removal of all standing water in the business or water in the home. With the use of specialized vacuum equipment, that can removed up to 2,000 gallons of water from a flooded home or business each hour, the team will be able to remove all water in the home or water in the business. This process will typically take less than one hour.

The water cleanup team will begin thoroughly drying the property


The water cleanup team will then begin the drying process. This will be carried out with industrial-strength drying equipment and dehumidifiers, the latter being able to bring the ambient humidity down to nearly zero percent. Special care will be taken to make sure the area around the original supply line break or pipe break is completely free of moisture. Even areas around the pipe break or supply line break that are invisible to the eye will be completely dried through the use of equipment that can raise ambient temperatures to near the flashpoint of the materials being dried.

The drying process may take anywhere from a couple hours to an entire day. When this step is complete, the flooded home or business will appear to be restored.

The final cleansing


The final step in the damage mitigation process is to thoroughly cleanse all furniture, surfaces and fixtures that have come into contact with flood water. At this point, the property will be restored to its original condition.
Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on water damage.

Commercial Fire Damage and Your Options

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Fire Damage and Your Options

When it comes to fire damage in the home, it is imperative that you hire a fire restoration service to get the job done. One of the things about fire restoration companies is that they work with people on an individualized basis. This means that they will be able to take care of the fire damage that was present after firefighters left with their fire trucks and fire hoses. It is also important that you work with experts because of the fact that this is going to save you time and money in the long run.

The fire damage and fire restoration experts will easily and quickly be able to install a fire sprinkler system and fire suppression system to take care of any future issues. This means that you will not have to deal with smoke damage and soot damage in the future because commercial damage is no longer a problem for you. You are also going to want to know that there are many people who specialize in taking care of smoke damage and soot damage. The commercial fire damage professionals are there for you every step of the way and can totally transform your life. This is something that firefighters are not able to do on their own using their fire trucks and fire hoses.

Once you make the decision to hire fire restoration experts, you may also want to have them put in a fire sprinkler system and fire suppression system so that this can prevent a future problem. This is why a lot of people who are hiring commercial fire damage experts are choosing to have them do this type of work for them after having an electrical fire or utility room fire. No matter what type of fire you had in your home, it is important to realize that fire damage professionals are there to help as much as they possibly can.

It is also important that you hire the professionals after an electrical fire and utility room fire so that this is something you do not have to do on your own. The professionals will be able to take care of the smoke damage and soot damage that has been left behind, allowing you to finally know that the commercial fire damage has been remedied in a proper manner. The fire damage experts are there to help as much as they possibly can, allowing you to finally overcome the electrical fire or commercial fire damage that has been left behind after this type of catastrophe. Even those with utility room fire issues have found that hiring a fire restoration professional help tremendously in terms of the smoke damage and soot damage.

The professionals will also put in a fire sprinkler system and fire suppression system so that the issue does not happen in the future. This fire sprinkler system and fire suppression system is essential for all homeowners as well as business owners. This is for individuals who have both dealt with a utility room fire or electrical fire. You will find that many firefighters using their fire trucks and fire hoses are not able to do the restoration themselves.

Once the firefighters have left using their fire trucks and fire hoses, it is totally up to you to hire a company to come in and do this type of work for you. There is something to be said about working with professionals when it comes to getting the help that you need. There are so many individuals out there who are more than willing to help with this type of project, so it is important that you work with them on an individualized basis in order to restore your home or business to its former self. If you have some type of insurance on your property, you may even find that your provider covers the full cost of restoration. This is obviously something that you are going to want to look at when it comes to the provider that you currently have.
Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on fire damage.

5 Things To Consider When Doing Storm Damage Repair

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

5 Things To Consider When Doing Storm Damage Repair

Homes damaged by powerful storms should seek professional assistance to repair damage. Perilous weather conditions causes river flooding, wind damage, ice damming and flood water creating serious property damage. Ice damage and hail damage are some primary factors in hurricane damage and storm damage.

Here is a checklist to evaluate storm damage before home restoration:

-Be Safe Before Storm Restoration: In the case of flooding from a river flooding, check if power lines are down before any storm remediation. Do not to make contact with fallen electrical lines, because flood water can conduct electrical currents. Do not employ a flood pump, until professionals have ensured there are no downed power lines.

-Assess for Roof Damage: Have a professional inspect for roof damage, roof leaks and ice damming. An ice dam is formed at the edges of a roof when a ridge of ice gets molded requiring roof repair. A professional can check for roof damage such as roof leaks, missing shingles and fallen branches. Ice damming causes gutter damage, requiring proper equipment for roof repair. In the case of hail damage or ice damage, look for frozen pipes within the ceiling or massive holes that could be left open.

-Contact the Insurance Company: Insurance companies should be contacted to assess wind damage, roof damage, hurricane damage, hail damage, ice damage, and any other kind of damages. They can find professional companies for roof repair, window repair, etc. requiring a skilled contractor.

-Inspect Personal Belongings: In the case of flooding, flood water can cause damage to computers, televisions and cell phones. Valuable personal items should be assessed for proof of damage, with documents, photos and/or videos sent to the insurance company for damage verification.

-Check for Wind Damage: Wind damage caused by flying debris can be destructive. Storm damage caused by wind cracks windows, creates holes and damages personal property. Wind damage weakens walls and causes wall slant or cracks, resulting in more repairs.

Different storms can cause different damage making home restoration more challenging. Some types of storm damage include:

-Hurricane Damage
-Hail Damage
-Ice Damage
-Damage from river flooding
-Wind Damage

In the case of hurricane damage, flooding, wind, river flooding and large waves damages vehicles and buildings. Professional storm restoration, also known as storm remediation, is necessary. Some insurance companies offer storm restoration and home restoration services, or can refer clients to reliable storm remediation firms. Business owners may invest in flood insurance to pay for hurricane damage repairs, to make the home restoration process easier.

Storm restoration from hail damage leaves cracks and holes in a home’s roof and windows. Hail also causes damage like roof leaks, requiring more roof repair.

Snow storms cause frozen pipes which expands and burst. Because water expands as it freezes, frozen pipes can be a huge headache. If you have a frozen pipe, make sure to turn the water off and call a professional to repair the frozen pipes.

When it comes to ice damage, roofs are mostly damaged by ice dams. Avoid ice damming by using roof rakes to clear the snow. Roof leaks are detected as ice melts, if cracks or holes are present. Ice dams also wreak havoc on gutters and drainage systems. On warm days, use a water hose to help get rid of ice dams.

Flooding is a manageable aspect of storm remediation by using flood pumps, if it safe to do so. If flood water gets into your home, water restoration should be considered. Professionals use water restoration methods like flood pumps, because faster water restoration means less damage due to flooding and mold.

Professionally remove ground water, using special vacuums, reaches ground water in areas not easily accessible. Employ a professional using a flood pump to remove ground water during water restoration, so ground water damage is avoided.

Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on storm damage.

What to Do Before a Fire Restoration Company Arrives

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

What to Do Before a Fire Restoration Company Arrives

Fire in home and fire in business are especially devastating. The extensive fire damage can leave a person homeless or a workplace out of business. It may be temporary, but the impact can be overwhelming for a homeowner or a business owner. After fire trucks depart, fire cleanup is necessary. Whether it is fire in home or fire in business, the property will suffer from smoke damage as well. Aside from that, there could also be widespread flooding and water damage due to the firefighting efforts.

Before the Fire Damage Restoration

The next step after the distressing fire damage is to call a restoration company that can provide board up services and more. While waiting, the primary focus of the victims of the fire should be their safety. Here are some things to bear in mind:

It may not be safe to stay in the house or building especially after destructive commercial fire damage.

Electrical wiring as well as slip and fall hazards are typically present after the fire damage.

Wet materials, after firefighters have stopped the fire, can be very heavy. It is not wise to attempt to carry them.

After a fire and before the professionals from the restoration company arrive to give board up services, here are actions that a homeowner or a businessperson can carry out after fire damage:

Soot damage can take place in carpets and upholstery. It is advised to limit movement to prevent the particles from being embedded in the mentioned items.

Make sure that the hands are clean. This not only helps with the fire cleanup, but also avoids further soiling walls, woodwork, and upholstery.

There should be old linens or clean towels on upholstery, carpets, and rugs to reduce smoke smell and even soot damage.

If it is fire in home and electricity is not working, the freezer and the refrigerator should be emptied. Doors should remain open until fire damage restoration professionals get there.

Cleaning and protecting chrome using light coating of oil or petroleum jelly is also advised.

Houseplants should be washed on both sides of the leaves to reduce smoke smell.

It is also time to change HVAC filter whether it is fire in home or fire in business.

Air registers can be taped with double layers of cheesecloth. This can also help reduce smoke smell.

If there are things that can be done before the restoration company arrives, there are also activities that should be avoided. Here they are:

Do not attempt to wash painted surfaces, such as walls. Shampooing carpet and upholstery is also not recommended without the go signal from the professionals of the restoration company.

It is also not advised to attempt to clean electrical appliances, particularly those that may have been exposed to fire or heat or even water. It is best to consult an authorized repairman first especially if soot damage is visible.

Commercial fire damage in stores that sell canned or packaged food and beverages can be upsetting as these items should no longer be used. The same thing should be applied if it is fire in home, particularly if the items have been stored near the areas that have been affected by fire and smoke damage.

If the ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fixtures before fire damage restoration since there could be something wrong with the wiring.

Garments should not be sent to an ordinary dry cleaning service. Improper cleaning may heighten smoke smell.

Fire in business or commercial fire damage, including soot damage and smoke damage, can affect the structure of the building and equipment in the area. The same thing can be said when fire took place at home where board up is often essential. It can destroy the house and the person’s belongings. Fire damage restoration companies understand that furniture, keepsakes, clothing, and other possessions are important to the victims of the fire.

It is important to find fire cleanup pros that specialize in restoring houses and structures and providing board up services for home or commercial fire damage. These pros can help renovate contents of the area that underwent fire, water, mold, and smoke damage. With the aid of professional fire cleanup, homeowners or business people can save money as their possessions are restored instead of replaced.
Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on fire damage.

The Mold Damage Restoration Process in a Home or Business

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

The Mold Damage Restoration Process in a Home or Business

Mold can cause massive damage to a home or business when it is not removed in time. It is therefore important to look for a restoration company to prevent further damage. Mold in home can; grown on damp wood, blacken shower grout lines, leave black spots on the sliding, and discolor dry walls. Mold growth can be a nuisance to any home or business set-up, and that is why it is important to understand the process of mold damage remediation. In addition, the mold in home produces microscopic spores that leave a smelly odor in a room and cause massive property damage. The best way eliminate black mold, fungus, dry rot, or mildew from your home or business is to adopt a deodorization and mitigation program for mold damage. The following is as simple mold remediation process:

Locating the Mold

The remediation process involves the removal of the entire mold in home that can be seen. In order to prevent any possible commercial mold damage, it is advisable to completely eliminate all form of black mold, dry rot, mildew, and fungus from your home or business without sparing some. The remnants are more likely to grow and spread leading to more damage and smelly odor. Hiring a restoration company that offers professional mold removal services can help when it comes to long-term mold growth prevention.

The professionals apply a thorough mitigation program after carrying out all the necessary tests to assess the level of mold damage. A restoration company looks out for areas that appear to be dump and those that are smelly when trying to locate the mold in home. It is important to know that commercial mold damage can be located in sensitive areas such as air conditioning ducts, walls, and under floor coverings. The mold removal process should be followed by deodorization when such areas are involved.

Assessment and Calculation of Mold Damage

Apart from locating areas with mold growth, it is necessary to be very inquisitive when carrying out the mold mitigation process. The process should only be applied after a thorough assessment of all invisible intruders and mold growth behind walls. Locating the source of moisture is very critical because moisture and water are the major causes of black mold, fungus, dry rot, mildew, and smelly odor. In addition, thorough mitigation can only be guaranteed by investigating the amount of contaminated space in a home or business setup.

The approach to be adopted in mold removal and deodorization is determined by finding out the extent of black mold in a home or business. Calculating the level of commercial mold damage helps in protecting those involved in the remediation process from any form of harm. The level of mold growth behind wall determines the level of mold remediation that is applied by a particular restoration company.

Preparing the Damaged Area

The work areas should be sealed using heavy sheets of plastic and tapes. This is very important because it presents the spread of mold spores to other areas. The operation also involves the use of mold elevation tools. Before embarking on the remediation process, professionals always put on their protective gear. Mold growth behind wall cleanup and deodorization is normally done using fungicide to prevent future mold damage.

Mold Cleanup

Mold cleanup involves the removal of all moldy materials in the affected area. In order to prevent spores from spreading to other areas, it is advisable to slightly spray water on drywall and carpeting. The best way to prevent mold dispersal is to use a vacuum cleaner in the clean-up process. Sealed trash bags are used to keep the moldy materials before they are disposed. The process involves adequate cleaning of non-porous materials like tiles and bathtubs to remove all form of fungus, dry rot, mildew, and black mold. A rag should be used to apply fungicide when removing mold growth behind wall.

Repairs

The final stage in mold removal involves carrying out all the necessary repairs. The spread of commercial mold damage can be stopped by removing all the mold debris through vacuum cleaning. A chlorinated cleaner should be used to clean the floor during the mold mitigation process. Walls should be repainted to eliminate any smelly odor and other forms of mold damage. Finally, an oil-based primer should be used to seal wood surfaces after mold removal and prevent future mold growth.
Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on mold.

How the Monsoon Causes Fire Damage

8/19/2016 (Permalink)

Dealing with fire damage? SERVPRO of Scottsdale has your back!

Monsoon and Fire Damage

The deserts of Arizona, while warm and fairly dry year-round, do indeed carry their own unique seasonal weather patterns. Perhaps the most influential and violent of these patterns is the monsoon, which starts in early July and carries on for most of the rest of the summer. During this period, storms are unpredictable, but often violent with torrents of rain intermittently falling. Due to several climatic factors in the Sonoran Desert, these storms also spawn unprecedented numbers of lightning strikes. For the wood and adobe homes common throughout Arizona, these lightning strikes pose an incredible danger.

Fire damage in North Scottsdale and other cities across the Sonoran Desert is fairly common during this monsoon season, and even if there is no rainfall, heavy lightning and thunderstorms can occur. SERVPRO suggests installing a well-made lightning rod on your home to ward off most lightning strikes, although it is by no means the only solution. Dried out for months of little to no rainfall, homes and the materials in them are brittle and ready for flame, and extreme care should be taken to install reliable fire extinguishers and possibly a sprinkler system across the house. Very recently, a hotel under construction near Scottsdale was hit by lightning and burned to the ground, as its fire safety systems were not yet set up.

It's not only the summer monsoons which can lead to heavy lightning damage, however. In the winter months, starting primarily in December, more rain hits the desert, but also more thunder and lightning. Every year, we see a spike in the number of fire damage cases from residents due to lightning strikes around these times. Take care to keep your home as safe as possible from these disasters, especially if you own a two-story home in a one-story neighborhood (or a building otherwise taller than its surroundings). Additionally, always mind the potential for flood and water damage during a monsoon, as rain typically comes in heavy sheets very quickly, often not easily absorbed by the soil.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Strategically positioned to have fast response times and quality coverage across the local community, SERVPRO of Scottsdale is always ready to respond quickly to your fire damage call. If you require our damage mitigation and restoration services, or would like a quote, call us 24/7 at (480) 998-7989.