Recent Commercial Posts

Ensuring Safety During Commercial Water Damage Restoration in Raleigh

2/26/2023 (Permalink)

Our technicians know how to handle a situation like this. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for professional remediation and mitigation services for your home.

How SERVPRO Restores Your Water-Damaged Wooden Floors in Raleigh

It can be challenging to do commercial water restoration for a Raleigh business with wooden floors. For instance, if the business we are talking about is a social hall that has just suffered a water damage incident due to a faulty sprinkler system. It helps if you act immediately so that its normal operations resume as soon as possible.

SERVPRO has the required experience and equipment to respond to commercial water damage incidents in Raleigh. We know the kind of hazards to expect when reclaiming wooden floors after a water damage incident. Some of the steps we undertake during the restoration process include:

  • Inspection: During this step, we check if there is discoloration, buckling, cupping, and warping on your wooden floors. The action we take to fix such issues depends on the damage's degree.
  • Water extraction: We use specialized equipment like wet-dry vacuums and pumps to extract water from the floors.
  • Drying and dehumidification: We remove excess moisture from the air and dry the wooden floors using heaters, dehumidifiers, and fans. By doing this, we prevent further structural damage and prevent mold growth.
  • · Sanding and refinishing: Severe water intrusion incidents may leave some stains on the floors. In such incidents, our SERVPRO technicians may decide to do sanding during the water cleanup process. Through sanding, a floor sander is used to remove the damaged top layer, and then we apply a new finish.
  • Cleaning: We remove the debris and dirt and then use specialized cleaning detergents to disinfect the floors.
  • Final inspection: Our team confirms whether the building is safe for occupancy and if the customer is satisfied.

Our professional water mitigation services aim to restore the original appearance of your wooden floors. Since we use the right equipment and methods to do the job, we are always successful in almost all projects we undertake.

Call SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 for effective, safe, high-standard water, mold, and fire damage restoration services. We aim to make your business appear "Like it never even happened" after the unfortunate incident.

Water Restoration for Saturated Garner Office Carpeting

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage restoration is a job for SERVPRO. Our technicians have the training and experience you need.

Cleaning Flooring During Water Restoration

Disasters impacting your office can overwhelm building materials and the structure's contents. With sensitive elements like low-pile, glue-down carpeting a standard in many industrial parks and corporate buildings, SERVPRO must resolve water damage quickly to prevent the material from becoming unsalvageable.

Reducing Standing Water

Before much of the water restoration for Garner office buildings can get underway, SERVPRO professionals must remove standing water threatening the work areas. Pooling is expected with larger water disasters, as there is often no porous material beneath the carpeting for water to absorb, like OSB board, padding, or plywood. A concrete subflooring leaves much of the water damage accessible with extraction devices like pumps, vacuums, and carpet wands.

Assessing the Carpet's Condition

With the majority of the water extracted and drained from the structure, our professionals must now look to determine the carpet's condition. Short exposure times can often leave flooring able to be restored and preserved, but the opposite is true with longer contact time or conditions like flooding.

We have several deep cleaning solutions that can help following the drying of carpets to prevent tear-out and reconstruction. However, there are some reasons why this replacement might make more sense for your business, including:

  • Staining
  • Deterioration
  • Wear
  • Mold damage

Floating the Carpet Layer

Detaching glue-down carpeting from the room's edges allows our SERVPRO team to introduce low-profile centrifugal air movers between this upper layer and the concrete subflooring. Running these machines helps to dry the carpet and its backing more completely, reducing the creation of secondary effects like mold and microbial threats. SERVPRO knows to create exhaust points on the far end of the carpeted flooring to prevent stretching.

Water damage can be one of your commercial structure's most common challenges. Our Large Loss response team is ready to help when disasters strike. Give SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner a call today at (919) 615-1179. 

Think SERVPRO for Commercial Water Damage Restoration in Raleigh

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO commercial damage restoration services are top-notch. We are ready at a moment's notice.

Importance of Drying Zones after Water Leaks

Establishing drying zones is crucial in the successful water damage restoration of commercial Raleigh properties. Techs use the drying zones to isolate the damaged portion of the building so that your business is least impacted during the repair.  

SERVPRO techs control the humidity, airflow, and temperature in the drying zone to accelerate evaporation during the water damage restoration of your Raleigh property. Techs create this zone by sealing off openings between the affected and unaffected areas. Establishing such zones can serve many purposes-

  • It allows the restorers to focus their equipment's efforts
  • It can prevent the spread of contamination if present
  • As only the affected portion is isolated, these zones allow businesses to operate, albeit with a limited functionality

Placing the Drying Equipment During Water Cleanup 

After establishing the drying zone during water damage restoration, the SERVPRO techs place the drying equipment to create conditions that accelerate the drying process. The two drying equipment that techs routinely use in water-damaged Raleigh properties include-

Techs arrange the air movers so that there is adequate airflow on all affected materials to create a vortex of circular airflow around the walls. In most cases, multiple air movers are arranged in tandem to maintain the vortex. 

Positioning the dehumidifiers in the drying zone is crucial to maintaining the best drying conditions. All the water evaporated from the surface must be dehumidified, or it can cause secondary damage. SERVPRO techs use different types of dehumidifiers depending on how much moisture is removed. In some cases, techs can use multiple dehumidifying equipment to get the best possible result.

Call SERVPRO of East Raleigh / Zebulon at (919) 250-0455; we are available round the clock to help you. 

How to Ease Water Removal in a Raleigh Business Place

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

SEWRVPRO is Here to Help Raleigh businesses keep their doors open following water leaks and damage.

Comprehensive Water Removal in Raleigh by SERVPRO

Whether it is a burst pipe or other mishap that leaves your business flooded, you must find a viable solution to remove all the water and dry wet areas. The task may seem simple since you clean your Raleigh premises from time to time using water. However, water removal after accidental leakage presents several challenges you might not be prepared to handle.

The amount and spread patterns make water removal from Raleigh business places challenging. The need to complete the exercise in good time and save valuables only increases the difficulty. You can hand the process to SERVPRO for convenience and free up your time to concentrate on other business matters. Professional restoration delivers good results because it is better planned.

Aspects of planning include:

  • Better documentation
  • Tracking moisture migration
  • Enhancing water extraction

Loss documentation may be the last thing on your mind once you discover a leak. However, simple actions such as taking photos of the water damaged site are crucial since they create a good reference point for determining harmed valuables or the place's layout after the restoration. Our SERVPRO technicians take photos and videos and write notes regarding the loss.

Understanding moisture migration

When the water leaves the leak point, it flows by gravitation, spreading across the property. It also wicks through porous and semi-porous materials while evaporating into the air. All these types of movements impact the issues you must resolve. For instance, the evaporating moisture poses a risk to hygroscopic materials like books or papers in any property section. The water absorbed by structural materials and furniture causes physical damage through swelling and disintegrating adhesives.

Helpful actions against moisture

  • Setting dehumidifiers
  • Setting up air-tight containment barriers
  • Making flood cuts on walls to halt wicking

SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner works fast to ensure water removal positively impacts your property. Call us at (919) 615-1179. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Businesses in Garner Rely on SERVPRO for Water Restoration

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

A water incident can be crippling for businesses, bringing operations to a screeching halt. SERVPRO is always on call to restore your business.

Water Restoration of Commercial Garner Properties

A water incident can be crippling for businesses, bringing operations to a screeching halt. However, with prompt and effective water restoration of your Garner commercial property, you can minimize your losses and get back on track in no time.   

SERVPRO has years of experience in water restoration of Garner commercial properties. Our highly skilled IICRC-certified experts can handle any size disaster, from leaks to flooding. We use several state-of-the-art pieces of equipment to ensure that the water mitigation of your property is done in the least possible time so that you can open the doors for your customers as soon as possible.   

Heating and Cooling Equipment for Commercial Water Cleanup

Temperature control plays a crucial role in rapidly drying water-damaged Garner properties along with the humidity. SERVPRO often uses temporary heating and cooling systems to create optimal drying conditions.

SERVPRO techs use direct expansion (DX) units for some commercial water restoration projects. A DX unit can provide both heating and cooling and range in size from 1-5 tons portable units to 10-60 tons industrial units.

The DX units use a refrigerant vapor compression/expansion cycle to cool the supplied air directly. In addition to temperature control, the DX units also provide humidity control and can be used to preheat or precool the air entering a desiccant dehumidifier.

The direct expansion units that SERVPRO techs use have several advantages over other types of heating or cooling systems, including:

  • One system for both cooling and heating the air
  • Powerful enough to handle any size property
  • Can be installed outside the property

Call SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 to get more information and assistance.

Deodorization Is a Major Part of Water Restoration in Garner

4/30/2022 (Permalink)

When your store is affected by water damage, call team SERVPRO. Our technicians are standing by 24/7 to assess the situation help you.

Water Restoration in Garner Employs Various Methods to Deodorize Commercial Sites

Foul smells are a hallmark of water damage in Garner area businesses and their elimination is a major goal of remediators. Performing this essential deodorization work necessitates the use of various methods, depending on the materials and situations involved. Fortunately, firms like SERVPRO are experts at all the necessary procedures. 

SERVPRO offers a wide array of high-quality water restoration solutions to Garner business owners. Our odor neutralization efforts address the specific causes of unwanted smells and remove them in ways appropriate for the impacted surfaces. The following is an accounting of the different odor removal methods we use:

  • Large areas of impacted hard flooring are mopped with EPA-approved disinfectants and a ULV fogger is used to fog them with the deodorant best suited for the job
  • After water extraction, both sides of carpeting and its subflooring are treated with disinfectants and then they are fogged with odor neutralizers
  • Pump sprayers or ULV foggers are used to deodorize ceilings and walls
  • After all upholstery has been cleaned and treated for fungi, injection devices or misting foggers are used to apply odor eliminators 
  • Water-impacted areas of your business are thoroughly dried and odor-reducing pellets are used to mitigate smells in more odorous parts of your facilities

In addition to these odor elimination activities, our other emergency water damage services include locating the ceiling leaks and burst pipes that cause your problems, fast and effective water removal services, and expert water damage repairs.

With all of this in mind, remember that your helpful neighbors at SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh/Garner are always here and ready to assist you with all of your water restoration needs. So, whenever you are impacted by a water-related event, don’t hesitate to call us at (919) 615-1179.

How to Perform Commercial Fire and Smoke Cleanup in Raleigh

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

Even small fires can be costly for your business. Don't DIY, Call SERVPRO!

Work With SERVPRO for Efficient Commercial Fire and Smoke Cleanup in Raleigh 

If a fire occurs in your commercial property, such as an office building, you may find it difficult to clean up the smoke and soot yourself. A fire can leave many employees without work and business owners facing a loss of revenue. A fire's staining usually goes deeper than the surface.

Fortunately, SERVPRO has the expertise to get your business back to its pre-fire state in a short period. Our technicians can perform commercial fire and smoke cleanup in your Raleigh property. Since we understand the consequences of delaying restoration, we:

  • Respond immediately to emergencies.
  • Offer emergency services to minimize property damage, reduce disruption to the insured and reduce claims expense.
  • Mitigate the fire damage to prevent further damage.
  • Use advanced products for effective cleaning.

A fire can ruin some structures badly such that it is impossible to return them to a preloss state. We can dispose of structural items charred by flame or blistered by heat. We clean buildings to their preloss condition, including removing smoke residues from their interior and exterior surfaces. The deposits also give off smoke odors. Our SERVPRO team can use air scrubbers to deodorize the building to remove the malodors. Air scrubbers draw dirty, indoor air through a series of filters, capturing odors, gases, and particles. They then circulate clean air back into the environment.

SERVPRO has skilled professionals equipped with the appropriate equipment and products to restore your property. For instance, our restorers can use stone and porcelain cleaner to clean smoke residues from brick walls. Since the product has a pH of 2, we protect polished metals and wood finishes when using it. The product weakens the layer of soot on brick walls, making it easy to clean.

Smoke and soot can settle even in unaffected areas. Our SERVPRO restorers can use wood crème cleaners to remove the soot and water stains from your office desks, shelves, and other wooden surfaces.

Fire damage can lead to expensive losses. Contact SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner for effective commercial fire restoration services at (919) 615-1179. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Threatening is Mold Damage to Raleigh Hotels?

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

When mold becomes an issue in your hotel, you want the experts. Call SERVPRO for assistance with mold remediation services.

Post-storm Damage Can Leave Raleigh Buildings Vulnerable to Mold Growth. 

As the home to once-prominent accommodations like the Sir Walter Raleigh Hotel on Fayetteville St, Raleigh continues to place high expectations on its amenities and structures for guests to the city. When situations like mold damage threaten any of these properties, management looks to the experience and fast response of our SERVPRO remediation team.

Storm Damage Response 

One of the first ways that mold remediation in Raleigh accommodations can get underway is to manage flooding and storm damage after a severe weather event. In recent years, the area has seen a share of torrential rains and damaging winds, so flooding is possible to properties meeting specific elevation criteria. This water penetration can cause ideal conditions for mold and microbial threats.

Assessing Mold Damage in the Building

Mold inspections play a vital role in determining just how destructive mold colonies can be to the hotel and its occupants. We evaluate any affected hosting materials and the projected paths of migration for active colonies.

Containment and Remediation

It is important to manage the loss in these hotels and resorts by establishing set containment barriers. Physical plastic polypropylene sheeting over structural openings can prevent the spread of active mold spores to new building areas and keep you operating in some capacity. This also increases the efficiency of remediation approaches like:

  • Surface cleaning
  • Sanding
  • Sponge pressure cleaning
  • Controlled demolition

Preventing Mold Recurrences

Once water penetrates the property and creates moist conditions, this is a situation that can keep happening. Our general contractor license allows us to complete repairs and build-back services necessary to seal vulnerabilities and prevent mold recurrences.

Mold can move fast through sprawling hotel structures throughout Raleigh and its surrounding areas. Our professionals provide efficient remediation services to get your business back up and running quickly. Give our SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner team a call today at (919) 615-1179.

Can Raleigh Water Damage Repair Services Salvage Commercial Carpeting?

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO understands how serious water can damage the carpeting as well as other surfaces on your property, Call us for assistance with water removal.

SERVPRO Water Damage Repair Strategies Can Extend the Lifespan of Restaurant Carpets

With the right care, commercial carpeting for businesses in Raleigh and elsewhere can sustain extensive wear and tear from foot traffic, spills, and even water damage due to pipe leaks and other disasters. However, these flooring solutions require fast-acting service to minimize business downtime while keeping property owners’ repair and replacement costs affordable.

SERVPRO professional water damage repair salvages Raleigh commercial structures with a combination of 24/7 service, advanced restoration tools, and extensive commercial cleanup training to render services per Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards. These practices include performing necessary repairs to code after cleanup for more comprehensive and timely service.

Saving Waterlogged Office Carpet from Delamination

While commercial carpeting is quite hardy, SERVPRO is careful to preserve it where possible. Bst practices that save a business’s carpet include:

  • Tenting the carpet and setting up air movers and dehumidifiers to pull moisture from the fibers and the pad
  • Multiple careful treatments with extraction units, while behind careful not to remove too much water and risk removing carpet from the pad, also known as delamination. Rover vacuums are also effective at carefully eliminating large quantities of water from carpet
  • Sanitizing carpet with OSHA-approved antimicrobials that can be injected into fibers for deep-cleaning spot treatments that eliminate residues from food and other potential contaminants
  • Controlling carpet odors with time-release pellets, odor counteractant beads, and HEPA-filter vacuuming
  • Reinstalling and re-seaming carpeting after cleanup

Business owners can call SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 for “Like it never even happened,” quality cleaning services.

Can Mold Remediation Help Save Carpeted Floors at Our Raleigh Hotel

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals are trained to handle every level of mold damage, Including the odors that come with it. Call us today, we are always available.

SERVPRO Inspects the Damage Levels Thus Determining the Best Mold Removal Procedure

If mold develops in the highly trafficked hallways or other carpeted sections of your Raleigh hotel, it is essential to take remedial action. Mold contributes to faster deterioration of materials and can cause health effects if people are unnecessarily exposed. 

Before choosing a process for mold remediation at your Raleigh hotel, it is essential to understand the problem since every incident involving mold infestation is unique. Mold can lead to the deterioration of the fibers, glues, and other structural elements of the carpet. It can also cause staining, but in most cases, it emits a strong, musty odor. SERVPRO technicians help tackle the issues you face by undertaking various processes.

The Essential Remediation Processes Include:

  • Mold inspection
  • Mold removal
  • Black mold damage repairs

Mold can proliferate in a carpeted area and remain unseen, especially if the growth starts from the bottom. Long-term exposure creates the opportunity for fiber deterioration and deep staining. The staining is categorized as class 4, the same as those caused by some inks or even red wine. 

Our crews also evaluate the circumstances of the infestation. In case the growth is only a few days old, it is possible to eliminate the problems by cleaning the area thoroughly. Our SERVPRO technicians use methods such as hot water extraction, then set up air movers and dehumidifiers for moisture removal. 

For infestations older than a few weeks or months, removing the carpet may be the only solution. Our SERVPRO technicians handle the removal, disposal, and installation of a new carpet. We also investigate and resolve the moisture source to prevent a recurrence. 

SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner offers custom mold remediation services to help resolve any issue that your business faces, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (919) 615-1179.

What Items in a Raleigh Business Are Prone to Water Damage?

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let water damage interrupt your business. Call SERVPRO techs are trained to remove the water.

SERVPRO Techs Understands How Different Materials React to Water Absorption and Provides the Appropriate Water Extraction in Raleigh

Understanding hygroscopic materials and how they absorb water is the basis for the water cleanup SERVPRO provides to commercial entities. 

Hygroscopic Materials 101

Materials that readily absorb water are hygroscopic. They not only absorb moisture but can hold onto water vapors that are in the air. Permeance is how water vapor flows through the material. Hygroscopic materials have a high permeance ability. The upside of this is, the easier an item absorbs water, the quicker it dries, making this fantastic news for companies needing water extraction in Raleigh. Hygroscopic materials include:

  • Particleboard
  • Upholstery
  • Carpet & padding
  • Gypsum wall insulation
  • Unfaced insulation
  • Fabric content

Rapid Water Mitigation is Necessary

Hygroscopic materials are prone to primary and secondary damage due to their absorption rate. Our technicians strive to limit direct damage and prevent secondary damage. For this to happen, immediate water damage remediation is a must. Things like delamination can happen if carpets aren’t dealt with right away. Your business’ content is in danger of damage from mold if moisture lingers for even 24 hours. 

Contact the Commercial Water Extraction Professionals

Our technicians are experienced at water removal from Raleigh businesses. We understand the importance of getting your company cleaned and restored fast. You can count on us for:

  • Emergency services for water damage
  • Ceiling repairs from water damages
  • Water removal services
  • Water cleanup
  • Mitigation for burst pipes and ceiling leaks

Contact SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 for your commercial water extraction needs.

Keep Your Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Clean to Prevent Fires in Raleigh

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

Grease fire in a commercial Raleigh kitchen that needs the cleanup and restoration of SERVPRO to once again start cooking.

SERVPRO Provides Fire Cleanup in Raleigh if Fire Does Strike

Food service locations have cooking areas with a hood and duct work to allow steam, fumes, and smoke to exit the area. Residue can build in the duct work from the exhaust gases. Any place with a commercial kitchen is required to keep the exhaust system clean, but things can still happen.

Restaurant Fires Can Happen Quickly

One-third of the kitchen fires that call for fire cleanup in Raleigh are the result of grease. Kitchen exhaust fires develop like this:

  • Flames flare up while cooking.
  • The fire reaches the filter above, and it catches on fire.
  • The exhaust fan is running, pulling air into the duct.
  • The flames are pulled into the duct via the fan.
  • If there is grease buildup, the flames move up through the exhaust conduit.

Professional Fire Restoration Services

SERVPRO can provide scheduled cleaning services that can remove grease residue from the duct work and grease filters. But when a fire does strike, we offer:

  • Fire damage restoration
  • Smoke remediation
  • Water and fire damage restorations
  • Content cleaning
  • Fixture restoration
  • Deodorization

Do not let your business stay closed for any longer than necessary if you experience a kitchen fire. Contact SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 for commercial fire cleanup.

Worried About The Speed of Storm Water Removal From Your Raleigh Facility?

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

Is your area affected by a recent storm? Team SERVPRO has large scale extraction and remediation equipment plus certified technicians for the job!

SERVPRO Understands the Ravages of Flooding and Thus Expedites Storm Water Removal in Raleigh

The “city of oaks,” as Raleigh is commonly known, is a beautiful city located in the heart of North Carolina. It is the capital of the state and the seat of Wake County. Apart from the beauty of its oak-lined streets, the city has more to offer residents and visitors, including fairer weather. For example, summers are hotter, averaging 78 degrees, but the winters are better with less snow and ice, unlike areas such as New England. The average temperature during winters is approximately 43 degrees.  

Top Restaurants to Visit in Raleigh

The city has excellent cuisines that you can sample, including gourmet Indian dishes such as Malai chicken Tikka, traditional southern fare, as well as regular foods like burgers, pancakes, and hotdogs, albeit with a Raleigh touch. Some of the popular establishments you can visit include:

  • Coquette, a French dining establishment with a traditional brasserie setting, banquettes, tiled floors, and sidewalk tables. Many people love their Mimosa, seafood, and escargots
  • Glenwood Grill, a veteran establishment for southern coastal dishes. It is popular for the wide variety of drinks and seafood on its menu. 
  • Sitti, a niche restaurant that specializes in modern Lebanese dishes. Apart from their Mediterranean dishes, many visitors also love their Lebanese red wine.

Experience Art from a Different Perspective

For art lovers, Raleigh offers many ways to explore artistic thoughts. The straightforward choice would be visiting the North Carolina Museum of Art, which has two buildings hosting several galleries, special exhibitions, and education studios. The most remarkable items include ancient Egyptian artifacts, African and Judaic art works as well as European Old Master paintings. The museum also has an outdoor park with works of art.

An alternative way to engage creative minds, especially for kids, is by visiting the Marbles Kids Museum, which has themed exhibits created to spark imagination through self-guided exploration. For instance, kids can play on giant chess boards with life-sized pieces. There is also a one-of-a-kind, kid-driven, smart power grid.

The Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden also offers a unique kind of art with thousands of flowers that bloom each spring. With over 60 varieties of flowers, visitors have a chance to explore a wide range of colors. The garden also offers a serene environment for relaxation accessible from sunrise to sunset.

How Does SERVPRO Expedite Storm Water Removal From Raleigh Business Premises?

Storms and other foul weather affect North Carolina from time to time. When such an incident happens, inundating your business, you should remove the water fast to limit the damage caused when materials are exposed to water over extended periods. Faster storm water removal also helps limit microbial growth and thus reducing secondary contamination of your business premises. Such unnecessary contamination could necessitate expensive services such as hiring:

  • Biohazard cleaning company
  • Biohazard remediation
  • Disinfecting companies

SERVPRO technicians use sophisticated equipment such as self-priming trash pumps to expedite storm water removal. We also take physical actions such as drilling vent holes or making flood cuts to reach water trapped in cavities.

SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner has significant experience handling storm water removal. Call us at (919) 615-1179 to help when your property is inundated.

Pro Water Removal for Raleigh Businesses?

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of how the water damage got into your home, team SERVPRO can help with remediation services. Call today.

Technicians Perform Commercial Raleigh Water Removal

Water damage is one of the most prolific and costly types of disasters that US residents face. Each day, an estimated 14,000 Americans encounter water damage, and insurance claim costs total an average of $2.5 billion per year.

SERVPRO renders commercial water removal for Raleigh businesses 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to ensure that structures and assets are returned to a preloss state.

Water Damage Detection Methods

SERVPRO technicians use several tools to detect water damage in structures and determine the drying progress for different surfaces. These measurement apparatuses include:

  • Moisture sensors, which determine the presence of moisture in soft surfaces like carpet and pad
  • Moisture meters, which are calibrated to find specific moisture levels for materials like wood or drywall
  • Thermal imaging cameras, which detect water damage inside, underneath, and behind structures by revealing changes in temperature
  • Thermohygrometers, which determine relative humidity and air temperature, both of which are crucial for establishing drying goals

Homeowners can call SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 for water removal.

Holiday Bazaar in Raleigh at Moore Square

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is looking forward to seeing everyone at the Holiday Bazaar!

Check Off Your Gift List Brought To You By The Raleigh Night Market

Holiday shopping season is in full swing in Raleigh, and anyone looking for something special on their gifting list can find it at the Holiday Bazaar. This two-day event occurs at Moore Square, where more than 40 artisans with booths showcase their handmade wares, including offerings from local farms, artisans, craftspersons, unique candles, and much more. There will be numerous photo ops, live music, and other holiday-centric fun for the whole family to enjoy. The Brew Box Coffee Company will be on hand both days with a selection of coffees for attendees to purchase while they stroll the event. 

  • Dates: December 12 and 13, 2020
  • Time: 10 AM and 5 PM
  • Entertainment: Ron Baxter Jazz Duo and DJ Handsome Robb

Business properties rely on SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 for commercial mold remediation services. The technicians have comprehensive training and professional equipment to mitigate the infestation and make it "Like it never even happened."

Can Your Cleaning and Maintenance Staff Remove Mold?

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

When the Sales and Marketing Rep SMR from SERVPRO arrives to your Raleigh Commercial Building, You Know Mold Remediaition Help Is Right Behind

Raleigh hotels are always susceptible to water damage and other circumstances that can lead to mold development.

Being the capital of North Carolina, Raleigh is among the busiest metropolitan areas in the state. High-traffic hotels, then, become highly susceptible to accidental damages from water and moisture from in-room fixtures to hotel amenities. When combined with aging structures like the Sir Walter Hotel opened in 1924, developing mold can have an even more significant and more considerable impact on the business.

As one of Raleigh's leading mold removal companies, our SERVPRO professionals provide remediation services designed to offer a comprehensive solution to microbial and fungal concerns. Remediation differs from removal in that it is a streamlined and far more practical response to a spreading organism. Our professionals offer a visit for your hotel business and its guest that is:

  • Fast – With the rapid exchange of guests and high traffic, you need remediation solutions that resolve the problems as quickly as possible. We can work through the necessary steps like cleaning and demolition to meet the property's needs as promptly as possible. 
  • Experienced – The more that professionals understand the behaviors of mold colonies and their impact on sensitive materials, the better prepared our technicians become with the needed products, equipment, and practices. 
  • Safe – Containment and quick action are mutually beneficial to providing a safe environment for your guests and staff while remediation gets underway. 

Is Controlled Demolition Necessary?

We have a comprehensive restoration and recovery approach. In many ways, controlled demolition can be time and money-saving, especially for drywall. We can evaluate the most cost and time-efficient solutions. We always coordinate all work with management to minimize or eliminate disturbances to the guests.

No matter how mold forms in your hotel, our SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner team can help to resolve this concern. We have a fast, experienced response available 24/7 at (919) 615-1179.

What is the Fastest Way to Get Commercial Water Damage Restoration Services in Raleigh?

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 stands ready to assist local properties in need of commercial water cleanup.

SERVPRO technicians are available around the clock to come to your Raleigh property to remove the water and return the property to its preloss condition

While it is frustrating to see that your Raleigh business needs water damage cleanup, the sooner it begins can lessen the number of items that need disposal. SERVPRO technicians can test the water and confirm if any harmful elements are present, as well as locate all areas that need extraction and drying through the use of their advanced moisture detection equipment.

How Do I Know What Kind of Commercial Water Cleanup I Need?
When calling for commercial water cleanup in your Raleigh business property, the SERVPRO technician asks questions about the nature of the water in the property, so the techs load the needed cleaning agents, disinfectants, extraction equipment, and other equipment. Using this one-on-one attention during the initial call allows the techs to bring everything required to successfully perform the mitigation, including sanitizing of surfaces and odor control applications. If furnishings are in harm's way within the structure, the technicians can remove them to a safe space during the restoration. Detailed notes of the process get made, including:
    •    Listing of any items that could not get restored, including photos
    •    Items that got packed out to another area
    •    Detailed report for all services rendered to assist with expediting any insurance claims filed for the business.

Preparing for Water Damage in the Future
It is stressful to deal with a sudden disaster in your business from fire, water, or other hazards. SERVPRO has a free app that allows business owners to notate access points for the building, the location of the water main, electrical panel, and other needed utilities for the SERVPRO team. Once the information gets filled out, you can summon the techs with a single push of the app in case something occurs within your property in the future, and you are prepared for it.

SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 stands ready to assist local properties in need of commercial water cleanup. The techs have the equipment to remove any amount of water present and dry the property to get it returned to normal daily operations as fast as possible. Call us to set up the ERP Emergency READY Profile Plan for your business.

Why Does the Raleigh Break Room Still Smell So Bad After a Fire?

8/23/2020 (Permalink)

The effects of fire damage can linger in your office if not properly taken care of. Contact SERVPRO for remediation.

SERVPRO Technicians Know that Some of Smelliest Residues are Hard to Remove and Create Big Odors in Your Raleigh Property Until Neutralized

It is convenient to pop lunch or a snack into a microwave oven at work; however, sometimes, a simple push of a button can go wrong. By design, microwaves contain a fire if you unplug the unit and leave the door closed. A colossal mistake happens when the oven door gets opened, and the rush of oxygen feeds the flames. This single misstep can blast smoky, oily residues all over the area. There are four main reasons a microwave can catch on fire:   

  • A short within the power supply
  • A power surge causes the oven to turn on when it is unattended
  • A defect in the design causes the oven to overheat  
  • Overcooking foods until oils or packaging ignites

What is the Best Way to Cover Up Commercial Fire Odor Damage?

In the aftermath of a breakroom fire in your Raleigh business, the fire odor, damage, and other issues cannot diminish with time. In fact, the longer that you wait to bring in professional mitigation by SERVPRO for the odorous particulate within the building, the more it can spread.

Soot particles can be both airborne and embedded within porous surfaces, including the paint on the walls and carpet. Time-release air fresheners and cover-up sprays are not powerful enough to combat the scent of smoke. SERVPRO techs have multiple methods for administering odor control to handle both airborne and embedded particulate. Through the use of professional equipment such as thermal foggers and hydroxyl generators, the techs can neutralize odors at the molecular level, never to return.

No one wants to be around commercial fire odor, damage, and other aftermaths post-fire. Call SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 for the fast, thorough restoration of your property and contents.

Click here for more information about Raleigh.

What is the Best Way to Clean a Toilet Backup in My Business?

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

Having issues on reopening your business after water damaged closed you down. Call SERVPRO of Raleigh to mitigate your problems.

Water that has sewage in it creates a hazardous environment for your customers and employees, SERVPRO can restore and sanitize your Raleigh commercial property

A water loss in your Raleigh business carries dangers such as slip and fall accidents, which have the potential to injure both customers and employees. That is why it is a good idea to section off a loss area or, in some cases, close operations for a limited time during cleanup. That is never more important than when sewage is part of the issue. This type of water requires handling as a biohazard and can be dangerous to aspirate or come into contact with, that is why it is essential to outsource the restoration job to a professional mitigation company.

What are Common Losses Found During Commercial Water Cleanup?

When a Raleigh business requires commercial water cleanup, SERVPRO techs keep three things in the highest priority:  

  • Safety for all
  • Minimizing loss for the property owner (content and structure)
  • Prepping the business for reopening as rapidly as possible

The techs move stock and items such as furnishings or stock that have the potential to get affected by elevated humidity levels or sewage-tainted water to another area of the property or a secure place until the premises gets cleaned and sanitized. Any structural materials that absorb water tend to be a loss and get removed, such as:

  • Sheetrock that wicked contaminated water
  • Seepage under tile flooring or glue-down carpet causing it to lose adhesion
  • Cardboard boxes and files on the floor in the loss area

How Does the Cleanup Process Work?

Once SERVPRO techs arrive on-site, SERVPRO techs get to work immediately, extracting the water and defining the loss area that requires cleaning. Because handing water with sewage can be hazardous, the techs wear protective clothing for safety. After drying, the premises get cleaned using professional cleaning agents to neutralize any remaining bacteria or pathogenic elements as needed, leaving the property ready for servicing customers again.

SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner at (919) 615-1179 has certified techs that bring the latest equipment and use advanced methods to perform commercial water cleanup safely and get your business reopened quickly. Certified SERVPRO Cleaned.

How Quickly Can SERVPRO Restore My Water-Damaged Raleigh Bar?

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let your Raleigh Bar be shut down due to water damage. Call the professionals at SERVPRO today for remediation assistance.

With how quickly water damages can spread throughout your damaged property, our professionals can restore your bar after standing water and saturation concerns. 

Water losses can be a threatening situation for your Raleigh bar, especially when this damage overtakes the establishment's high traffic areas. Because We're Faster To Any Size Disaster, our SERVPRO professionals can mobilize quickly when disasters strike so that there is little delay in getting vital mitigation started in the building.

Because water damage in Raleigh bars like yours can spread quickly and affect many surfaces and contents, our team works to provide adequate recovery options like efficient extraction. These actions that get taken as soon as our professionals reach the building so that fewer materials can become irreparably damaged my migrating loss effects.

Why Is Extraction So Important After a Loss? 

Many surfaces and materials can become damaged by standing water and saturation when water losses occur. Addressing standing water can noticeably reduce penetration and saturation of exposed materials. Because many of the elements throughout the barroom are wooden, it is vital to clear standing water from the surface before these porous compositions can absorb the migrating damages. Many of the potentially damaged items and areas of your bar include:

  • Stools
  • Booths
  • Tables
  • Wood Flooring
  • Dance Floors

Is It Possible to Stay Open Through Restoration? 

It is our business to get you back in business after a loss incident. When we can contain the migrating water effects to specific areas of the structure, it is sometimes possible to restore the damages without needing to shut your doors. With working during the day on your nighttime establishment, we can get your building dried and ready for its average volume of thirsty patrons.

With so many areas that could become damaged by standing or migrating water, our SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh / Garner team can help with efficient drying and recovery solutions. Give us a call anytime at (919) 615-1179.

See more about Raleigh

How can I protect my business during an outbreak?

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

How can I protect my business during an outbreak like Coronavirus?

With the recent outbreak of the Coronavirus, many people are scrambling to ensure their property is protected. There is a consistent rise in business owners/parents/caregivers interest to ensure that facilities are taking every precaution to prevent any widespread outbreaks. In this article, we will cover what  the Coronavirus is, how you can protect yourself, and how SERVPRO can provide assistance with cleaning and disinfection. 

So, What is the notorious Coronavirus and how does it spread? 

Coronaviruses are zoonotic, which means they are transmitted between animals and people. This virus can cause a variety of symptoms and can lead to a more serious prognosis when introduced to infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Once transmitted to humans, other humans can spread the virus through respiration such as coughing and sneezing. 

How can I protect myself, my family, my employees, and my customers?

Pathogens can rarely be seen or detected with the naked eye; but surfaces, toys, furniture, door knobs, etc are often carriers for communicable disease. When it comes to decontaminating surfaces and airborne Infectious diseases, it’s important to call on a professional that is trained & certified in biohazard remediation including the disinfecting of infectious disease. Surface cleaning is not enough these days, and unfortunately the average consumer does not fully understand the products and the chemical components behind the products intended usage. So many products we use and are familiar with are not used properly, and thus get rendered ineffective which is not the case.

How can SERVPRO help during the Coronavirus?

SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh/Garner offers thorough cleaning and disinfection services for schools, hospitals, and commercial properties. We have a passion for the prevention of illness through proper cleaning and sanitization. Our crews are always ready to go in their PPE to ensure the buildings in our community are safe to enter. 

Our disinfectants & virucides are EPA, FDA, and OSHA compliant, they have a very low toxicity rating, and are effective against the most common disease and odor-causing organisms, including MRSA, HIV-1 (AIDS virus), Influenza A2, Avian Flu, VRE, TB, Herpes, to name a few. The CDC is recommending a labeled Hospital Grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID19. SERVPROXIDE has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to COVID19 on hard non-porous surfaces. This product can be used against COVID19 when used in accordance with the directions for use against Norovirus Feline Calicivirus** and Canine Parvovirus, Strain Cornell-780916, ATCC VR-2016** on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDE currently has EPA approved claims for Feline Coronavirus (Strain WSU 79-1683, ATCC VR 989**) and Canine Coronavirus (Strain 1-71, ATCC VR-809**). More product specific information can be obtained on the TDS & SDS.

Call SERVPRO of Southeast Raleigh/Garner today to ensure you have a proper disease control prevention strategy moving forward to help support a healthy and safe atmosphere. (919) 250-0455

4 Smart Moves To Prepare Your Company for a Weather Disaster

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

It is vital to have periodic drills that mimic the conditions of a storm

Disaster Preparedness

On any given day there is bad weather happening somewhere in the world. This can be in the form of tornadoes, hurricanes, heavy rains or snow, lightning and hail. Eventually, extreme weather will hit Garner, NC. That's why a strong disaster preparedness plan is a necessity for every business. The better your plan the quicker you will be able to recover from a major storm. You will also be more likely to suffer lighter losses and a shorter business interruption, while providing greater safety for your employees and customers. Each plan is unique and depends upon the characteristics and location of each business, but a solid plan has these things in common:

Include Employees. Your employees are your greatest asset, and they are a true key to proper business preparedness. Make sure they are educated about where to go and what actions to take. Appoint a coordinator and a safety team to take charge during a storm. A plan to help workers with disabilities is an integral part of preparedness.

Buy Emergency Supplies. Every company should have on hand a good first-aid kit, clean water, a flashlight and food. Every employee should be aware of where the supplies are kept.

Engage in Drills. Practice makes perfect so it is vital to have periodic drills that mimic the conditions of a storm. Disaster preparedness depends on employees knowing the evacuation route and the location of a safe room.

Establish Communication Protocols. It's important to know who to call and when during the course of a storm and afterwards. The numbers for emergency personnel and first responders should be available to all employees. After the storm, the services of storm mitigation professionals should be contacted to assess damage and begin cleanup.

Disaster preparedness takes a bit of planning and extra work, but you'll be happy you put in the effort when a storm strikes. The road to recovery will be smoother for your business.

What To Do When a Toilet Overflow Affects Multiple Floors

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

Toilet water is Category 3 water

What To Do When a Toilet Overflow Affects Multiple Floors

The only thing worse than dealing with sewer damage on one of the floors of your commercial property in Lizard Lick, NC, is facing damage on two floors of your commercial property. Here's what to do when an overflowing toilet threatens to flood a second floor.

1. Call for Backup

All flood water isn’t created equal. It's generally classified into three groups:

Category 1: Clean water, likely from a broken supply line, that holds no threat of contamination.
Category 2: Water that's used in appliances and equipment, rendering it mildly contaminated.
Category 3: Highly contaminated water that may contain sewage, bacteria, or other toxins.

Toilet water is Category 3 water, which means that you should resist the urge to start cleanup on your own and instead call a water mitigation company immediately. Once you've made those arrangements, call your insurance company.

2. Stop the Water

While you wait for help from sewer damage professionals, your first job is to stop the flow of water by turning off the toilet's supply valve. Then, try to contain the water if you can, getting as much water off the floor as possible, being careful not to make direct contact with it. The goal is to stop as much water as you can from making the jump to the floor below.

3. Remember That Subfloor Damage May Not Be Visible

If the ceiling of the floor below the overflowing toilet shows even the slightest sign of water damage, that means water breached the barrier between floors and you need professionals to get in there, see just how much got wet, and carefully remove it. Resist the temptation to simply paint over water marks on the ceiling and call it a day. Wet building materials, if left unattended, may harbor mold or become structurally unsound and unsafe.
A flooded toilet doesn't have to spell disaster for your commercial space. Minimize the threat of sewer damage and unsafe working conditions by enlisting the help of an experienced sewage company for cleanup and restoration.

Cleaning Up After an Apartment Fire

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

Apartment fire in Auburn, NC

If you have experienced an apartment fire in Auburn, NC, there are a few steps to take to ensure a smooth transition after the smoke has cleared. Consider the following procedures for a swift cleanup:

  • Communicate any losses to your insurance company
  • Remove any valuables from the living space
  • Contact the superintendent to make sure all electrical and plumbing is inspected
  • Arrange for alternate living quarters if necessary

Secure Your Possessions

It's a great idea to remove any items from the area that you deem to be irreplaceable or expensive. There will more than likely be a steady stream of people in and out of your living quarters immediately after a fire. Fire damage remediators, police and other authorities will be there to help with the aftermath, but unlocked doors and easy entry can open the door to theft. A good short-term solution is to rent a small storage unit to house your goods while the situation is being sorted out. For those that have purchased renters insurance, one of the first calls should be to the agent handling your contract. If you choose to wait to file your losses, your reimbursement could be delayed and red tape may hold up the proceedings. As a safeguard, always document high-end goods by keeping a list along with photos for proof.

Meet With the Landlord

Contact the person in charge of the building as soon as possible after an apartment fire. You can find out when professionals will be on-site to begin repairs and confirm that all wiring and piping will be thoroughly investigated. The manager of the complex may also be able to direct you to accommodations for the time immediately after the fire.

Find a Place to Stay

Once all the initial issues are addressed, get in touch with family or friends to secure a space to live while cleanup is being completed. You can also check into local relief funds if you need financial assistance. An apartment fire can be devastating, but choosing to act quickly can reduce the amount of time spent recovering from a disaster.

Tips for Drying Out Your Commercial Building

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Turn off the electricity

Proper Steps to Begin the Cleanup Process After Flooding in Your Building

If your commercial building in Wendell, NC, gets flooded, it is important to know the proper steps to take to begin the cleanup process. Acting fast in this type of situation is vital in order to make sure that even larger issues don't occur. Here are some damage tips to get you started before help arrives.

Turn Off the Electricity

The power needs to be shut off immediately. This can help prevent further damage, but is also extremely important in ensuring people's safety. If you are unsure how to do this or do not know where the power box is, contact the building manager or obtain a copy of the building plans to help you.

Stay Safe

If you've had a pipe burst, the water is going to be different than if it came from a sewer problem. Cleaning tips for contaminated water need to include wearing the proper safety gear. If you're unsure about the source, you may want to wait until a water restoration expert arrives.

Get Documentation

Insurance may help pay for some or all of the damage, so it is important to take pictures of the flooded area. When you go to file a claim, they usually ask for this, so be sure to get shots from every angle before any cleanup takes place.

Ventilate the Area

Opening all windows to begin proper air circulation is one of the best damage tips there is. Fresh air can help start the drying process naturally. Do not use fans or try to blast the heat or air conditioner as this can sometimes cause more harm than good.
Although these damage tips are there to get you started, it is a good idea to call a professional restoration company in Wendell, NC, to come take a look at the contaminated area. They may also be able to help you locate and fix the source of the problem so that additional flooding does not occur.

What Should I do After a Pipe Breaks?

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Bursting Pipes can cause extensive Water Damage.

A pipe break can happen during any time of the year but is more likely to occur during the winter if the pipes are in an uninsulated area of your commercial property in Raleigh, NC. Be advised that bursting pipes can cause extensive water damage in Raleigh, which is why it’s important to call a restoration company as soon as possible. 

3 Steps to take after a pipe break.

  1. Stop the Water

Turn off the water immediately. After you shut off the main water supply, you need to drain the pipes. To do this, turn on the cold water on every faucet on your property and flush every toilet at least once. Then turn off the hot water heater and run the hot water on every faucet. Taking these crucial steps ensures the leak will stop. But you’re not done yet.

  1. Reduce and Fix the Damage

At this point, it’s best to reach out to the professionals so they can fix the broken pipe. However, you might be able to locate the broken pipe yourself. Don’t walk in water as this bears the risk of getting electrocuted. It’s recommended that you turn off the electrical power no matter if the water is one foot or only one inch high. Furthermore, unplug appliances and turn off the furnace. If safe, you can move valuable items, electronics and fabrics to higher ground.

  1. Call a Cleanup Company

Opening the windows and running fans run won’t prevent mold growth from bursting pipes. No matter how extensive you think the damage is, contact a water restoration company as there might be damage you are not able to spot. Mold and mildew begins to grow only 24 to 48 hours after such an event. You don’t want to risk more damage to your property.

When your plumbing breaks, there’s little time to spare. Take these three steps immediately to reduce the water damage in Raleigh, NC due to bursting pipes.

Steps for Removing Mold in Your Air Ducts

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

Strong, musty smell can be a sign of mold. SERVPRO is highly trained and experts in mold removal.

Process To Remove Mold In Your Air Ducts

A musty smell in your building in Garner, NC, can be a sign of mold. If your customers or employees are complaining about the odor throughout the building, it may be hiding out in the ducts of your HVAC system. Professional HVAC cleaning can remove the fungus and improve your building’s air quality. Here are the steps mold mitigation experts are likely to take to complete this process.

1. Assessing the Issue

In order to use the right procedures, technicians need to know what kind of mold and how extensive a problem they are dealing with. They may test the area to determine where the mold is located and how much of your air ducts are affected. Once they know how big the issue is, they can formulate a plan that hopefully will leave your building fungus-free.

2. Pinpointing the Cause

Mold growth is often the result of unresolved water damage or excess dust. It doesn’t do any good to get rid of the malodorous mold if the factors that led to it persist. Professionals may need to find and remediate the cause of the problem with damage repair or HVAC cleaning before they tackle the fungus issue.

3. Shutting Off Air Flow

Mold spreads easily through the air. Because cleaning vents can stir up the spores in the growth, it’s important to seal off the area with the mold problem. Turning off the HVAC system and covering vents to limit exposure to other parts of the building is crucial.

4. Cleaning the Area

Spores are tiny and can thus infiltrate just about every surface, crack or pore. Certified professionals are trained to permeate every place these spores may hide. They may use a variety of methods to make sure your building is completely remediated.

If you smell mold throughout your building, HVAC cleaning may be in order. Call in the professionals to make sure it is done correctly and thoroughly.

How To Prepare for and Extinguish a Fire

1/12/2019 (Permalink)

Make sure your building in Raleigh, NC has the right fire extinguisher

Fires can happen at any time, at any place and often without warning. Having a fire extinguisher on hand is your first line of defense. If your building in Raleigh, NC, has a fire, it is vital to know the appropriate actions to take when fighting it. If used correctly, an extinguisher can help limit the amount of fire damage to your building. The following steps will help you prepare for and extinguish a fire:

1. Pick the Right Extinguisher

Make sure your building has the appropriate fire extinguisher for the type of fires you might face at your workplace. (This may mean having multiple extinguishers available for use.) All extinguishers are labeled in accordance with what type of fire they are to be used against. For example, a kitchen fire would require an extinguisher labeled with a ‘K,’ as it is designed for fighting fats, grease and oils.

2. Call Emergency Services

In the event of a fire, the most important step is calling emergency services. Fires can be unpredictable and quickly grow out of control. Always take the immediate step of pulling the fire alarm and ensuring back up is on its way.

3. Use the Extinguisher

Before choosing to use an extinguisher, always make sure there is a clear path for evacuation if necessary. Then follow the PASS method to operate the extinguisher:

  1. Pull - Pull the pin; this releases the locking mechanism.
  2. Aim - Always aim low, toward the base of the fire.
  3. Squeeze - Spray the extinguisher by squeezing the handle.
  4. Sweep - Use a side-to-side sweeping motion to most effectively cover the fire.

After following these steps, if the fire is not yet out or if it re-ignites, use your evacuation route and wait for emergency services to arrive.

While knowing how to effectively use a fire extinguisher can aid in limiting fire damage, personal safety should always be your top priority. Whenever a fire has taken place, it's wise to have a fire damage assessment to ensure the building's safety before returning.

Category 1 Water Damage: Act Now!

12/23/2018 (Permalink)

If you have a flood damage situation be sure to call a water restoration company in Knightdale, NC

Take the Following Steps Within 24 Hours, If Possible

There are three categories of water that can flood your business in Knightdale, NC. Category 1 water is the best-case scenario. Category 1 damage comes from clean water sources, such as a broken supply line or a broken pipe. The key is to act quickly before any damage becomes worse. Untreated category 1 water can quickly turn to category 2 or 3 water. 

1. Turn Off Electricity

When water is involved, your first safety concern is electricity. Turn off all electric sources near the flooded area. If the water is confined to a single room, then cutting power to that room will suffice, but if the damage is multi-room, consider cutting power to the building. Call your utility company if you can’t reach the panel safely.

2. Stop the Flow

Once the threat of electrocution has passed, find the source of the flooding and stop the flow immediately. Stopping it could be as easy as turning the valve off on an overflowing toilet tank or more difficult, like completely shutting off clean water to the whole building. It is important to know where all the water valves, inside and outside, are in your building.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

As soon as the risk of electricity and flowing water is resolved, call your business’s insurance company in order to discuss the coverage for your assets. Many insurance policies cover flooding from broken pipes but not from a natural flood. Ask your insurance company to work quickly so you know what is covered. Be sure to take pictures of the damage for your records.

4. Get Help for Cleanup

If it’s a small flood, you may be able to start cleanup yourself, but be sure to call a water restoration company quickly. These companies should know exactly what to do to ensure the damage is as minimal as possible.

Flood damage recovery may be a long process. The good thing is that category 1 water is clean water and that makes the situation a lot less complicated. Using a reputable water restoration company can help keep the cleanup as simple as possible.

Flood Water Removal: What to Expect

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding damage in Zebulon, NC

If you’re dealing with flooding in Zebulon, NC, then you may be wondering how to remove the standing water from your business. With the right equipment this process can be fairly straight forward.

Putting Safety First

Whether you’ve hired a water removal professional or decided to attempt to remove the water yourself, safety is the first step before any cleanup can be done. Here are a few steps you should consider taking:

  • Make sure electricity is turned off in the flooded area before attempting to go in
  • Wear appropriate protective gear such as waders, waterproof boots and gloves
  • Use appropriate equipment for water removal such as a trash pump
  • Read the manuals for equipment use before hand
  • Thoroughly wash your hands before touching your face or eating

Removing the Water

Water removal should only be attempted with the appropriate equipment for the job. Many professionals have heavy duty pumps designed for this work, but buckets or a shop-vac may also be used. It’s best to remove as much of the standing water this way as possible, after which our building’s drainage should kick in.

Ensure Proper Drainage

In many cases after the storm waters have subsided a bit, the drainage system installed in your building should begin to work again. However you will also want to ensure that any drainage your business is equipped with has not been clogged with debris from the flood water. Check for sticks, leaves and muck that could get in the way. If a sump pump is installed the intake and outtake valves should also be looked over. Once the main part of the water is removed then you can begin drying out the building, and follow up with any needed sanitation steps.

With the right equipment, such as a trash pump, water removal doesn’t have to seem like a daunting task. Remember to take proper safety precautions during the cleanup process. If you think your business may have suffered water damage then a professional in Zebulon, NC, may be able to help.

Keep Sneaky HVAC Mold at Bay

7/14/2018 (Permalink)

Mold may be part of life, but it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming problem.

Whether a new, old, small or large business, the people running it have plenty of things on their mind. When it comes to the structure the business operates out of, it can be easy to overlook what can’t be seen. One area of maintenance easily forgotten is HVAC cleaning—a surprising key to mold prevention.

While mold can easily be spotted on walls, floors and areas prone to water, it can also hide in air ducts. Below are three steps to help spot and deal with sneaky mold issues.

1. Inspect the HVAC system. Unfortunately, mold is something that pops up quickly and never completely goes away. Fortunately, it’s easy to minimize its growth by regularly checking around the system for moisture—mold fuel. Any signs of moisture around ducts, vents and the system’s parts, such as blowers, could indicate it’s time for an HVAC cleaning. Also, check that the drain and condensation pans are draining and not retaining water.

2. Get the system cleaned. Mold doesn’t only need to moisture to make its rounds. It can also grow on dust inside the ducts and vents. Cleaning vents helps reduce the accumulation of mold and keeps airflow operating smoothly. Business owners in Raleigh, NC, with the potential for mold in their vents should call an expert to help resolve the issue quickly and professionally.

3. Preventive maintenance keeps the mold away. Once an HVAC system is cleaned, its time to set up a regular maintenance plan. Change filters regularly to stunt future growth, and ensure that the filters are positioned correctly. Continue to regularly inspect the system and its components for any moisture buildup or improperly functioning parts. Additionally, regular general dusting and vacuuming can help air ducts stay relatively clean, keeping mold from serious growth. Lastly, be sure to set up an annual cleaning appointment with an HVAC expert.

Mold may be part of life, but it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming problem. While HVAC cleaning may not be on the priority list, its benefits can help put business owners’ minds at ease. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROeastraleighzebulon.com/.

5 Ways You Can Clean Up After a Building Flood

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

A flooded building in Raleigh, NC, can be a nightmare to deal with, but it can be fixed.

No one wants to experience a flooded company building, but it happens from time to time. In order to get back to business as soon as possible, you can do a few things before the professional cleanup crew arrives.

If you caught the flooding early, these steps can help start the cleanup process. If the water has been standing for several days, however, it is best to contact an expert to deal with possible mold or sewage contamination.

1. Power Down

If you can safely reach your breaker, shut off power to the building immediately. Please call an electrician if you have to walk through standing water to access the power switch.

2. Get Ready to Clean

Be sure to wear boots, gloves and a face mask while moving furniture and cleaning up a flooded company building. If your damage was caused by a broken pipe, you will want to be extra careful about exposure to chemicals or toxins.

3. Remove Water

Try to remove as much water as possible. Once the standing water is gone, run a dehumidifier and fan to begin the drying out process. The key here to prevent mold and mildew from growing in the moist environment.

4. Get Rid of Damaged Items

Paper products, carpeting and wall coverings usually do not hold up after being flooded. Discard or recycle anything that appears to have been damaged by water. Hard surfaces and clothing can be cleaned.

5. Wash Your Clothes

Be sure to wash any clothing that you or your employees wore during the cleanup process. They can potentially be contaminated with mold or sewage. This clothing should be washed separately from uncontaminated items.

A flooded building in Raleigh, NC, can be a nightmare to deal with, but it can be fixed. Taking the above steps and talking to a restoration expert can save you on costly downtime and damage.

What Goes Into a Fire Damage Estimate?

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

A qualified company will include deodorization in your fire damage estimate and will have the tools and chemicals necessary to remove smoke odor.

After a fire on your commercial property, one of the first steps is having an insurance adjustor out to evaluate the damage and determine what you can claim on your insurance. You may also have a commercial fire professional from Raleigh, NC, out to determine exactly what you can salvage, and how. But what exactly does a fire damage estimate entail?

Evaluating What Can Be Saved, and How

While an insurance estimator is determining how much you can be reimbursed for your losses, a fire damage estimator’s job is to:

• Provide immediate emergency response to prevent secondary damage through mitigation
• Fully assess the extent of the damage and give an accurate picture of remediation efforts
• Determine what can be cleaned and restored
• Determine what should be torn out/destroyed and rebuilt/replaced from scratch
• Provide a cost breakdown for cleaning and teardown services
• Deliver an approximate timeline for completion

Will My Insurance Cover the Cost of Fire Damage Restoration?

The amount of a fire damage estimate may not match with the amount of an insurance claim, but only the fire damage professional and insurance adjustor can provide accurate information on that depending on the extent of the damage to the property. The claim may fully or partially cover the cost of fire remediation. Unless you intend to pursue further claims with your insurance company, anything not paid by the claim would come out of pocket.

Does Cleanup Include Deodorization?

If you’re working with a qualified company, yes. Smoke odor can permeate items with a lasting stench, often associated by yellowed smoke stains. If the odor is strong enough, it can last years and create an unpleasant effect on anyone in the vicinity of the smoke-damaged, contaminated items. A reputable, qualified company will include deodorization in your fire damage estimate, and will have the tools and chemicals necessary to remove smoke odor from even the most porous items without damaging them. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROeastraleighzebulon.com/.

3 Things To Do When Your Toilet Overflows

4/22/2018 (Permalink)

Nothing can ruin your day like a flooded toilet. Beyond the ick factor, you usually have to act fast to prevent serious water damage. If you’ve had a major flood in your house thanks to sewer damage in Raleigh, NC, you should call a water restoration specialist ASAP. In the meantime, here are some tips to mitigate the damage.

1. Stop the Water Flow

Any sewage company will likely tell you, in the event of a flooded toilet, step one is shutting off the water source. You can do this by turning off the valve behind the fixture. This may not solve your bathroom woes, but it can help stop the spread of water damage.

2. Clean Up Standing Water

It’s good planning to have gloves, mops, rags, paper towels and other cleaning materials on hand for an emergency. Standing water—the visible water that has flooded—should be absorbed as quickly as possible before it seeps into the flooring.

For a serious flood that affects two floors, you may have to remove the flooring and ceilings. Sewer damage that seeps into the floor can lead to the formation of mold. By removing the wet materials, you’re often able to disinfect and dry everything out to ensure that you don’t get any nasty surprises down the road.

3. Ventilate

Air out the rooms as best as you can. Open all the windows and bring in any fans you have around the house. Keeping the air moving can help dry out the area and reduce humidity before your water restoration specialist arrives.

Sewer damage from a flooded toilet is never fun, but if you act fast with these simple steps, you can have a better chance at reducing the extent of the damage to your home. Because of the bacteria inherent in toilet water, for any major amount of flooding, be sure to call a professional in Raleigh, NC, to assist in clean up. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROeastraleighzebulon.com/.

How Can You Prepare for Flood Damage?

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Mother Nature is unpredictable, but even when you can’t prevent or predict flooding, you can still be prepared. Flood damage and storm damage can cause costly and catastrophic losses that many commercial businesses struggle to recover from. With appropriate preparations, you can minimize loss of property, inventory, and livelihood.

1. The First and Best Preparation Is Prevention

If you’re selecting your first commercial location, one of the best things you can do is choose a site that’s both advantageous to your business needs and positioned strategically in a low-flood zone. Historical flood data in Raleigh, NC can tell you which areas are less likely to deal with flooding and runoff.

If you’re already established, though, you can still mitigate damage by ensuring your property is water-tight. Check weather stripping and sealing, and where applicable, use waterproof coatings and paint.

2. Stock Up on Sandbags

When you know bad weather is coming, it helps to have sandbags on hand. Sandbag your doors and windows to create a watertight seal and prevent windows from breaking inward. You can also sandbag your walls if you have enough, particularly if you’re worried about water damage or about walls breaking inward under heavy flooding.

3. Seek High Ground

If you have the ability to move inventory, furniture, and office equipment to a higher floor in the event of a flood, take advantage to keep your investment safe. Migrate anything that isn’t fixed in place. Organize and label everything neatly as needed; you may also need to create a labeled floor diagram to replace things after.

4. Check for Leaks

Although sandbagging will help prevent some water intrusion, check your entire property for leaks. This includes checking your ceiling. Sandbags can’t prevent roof leaks, which can cause major storm damage and make the work of restoration specialists even more difficult. One good way to test if areas are watertight is to check if they’re airtight. You may notice drafts already, but you can also use a can of air to check any seams or jointed areas. Visit http://www.SERVPROseraleighgarnerzebulon.com for more information on commercial storm damage. 

Clearing Smoke Damage: A Job Better Left to Professionals

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Returning to your building after a destructive commercial fire can be difficult to process, both mentally and emotionally. However, immediate action should be taken regarding fire cleanup to avoid further damage. When you need to clear out smoke damage in Raleigh, NC, it’s best to hire trained professionals to get the job done right. Though you may want to get involved and even clear some of the soot damage yourself, smoke cleaning requires more experienced labor from those who know how to accurately clear it.

Here’s why you should hire certified fire specialists to restore your building:

* If called soon enough, they can keep ash and soot from seeping into your belongings. It takes as little as a few hours for fire damage to settle into the walls and furnishings of your home. The longer you wait to take care of the situation, the harder it will likely be to restore your items. Hiring professionals early means having trained technicians clearing the area quickly and efficiently before more damage can occur.

* They can lower your restoration costs significantly. If smoke damage goes unchecked for a few days or even weeks, the effects on your property are sure to be far worse. Ash residue starts to discolor surfaces, metals become tarnished and any smoke odors may simply never fully dissipate. Calling on professionals within 24-48 hours better ensures your property won’t endure a greater loss, a situation that becomes that much more expensive.

* Experts have more efficient materials to use. While many DIYers simply go for the soap and water method, clearing away extensive soot, ash and smoke odors often calls for stronger solutions. Chemical solvents and special detergents are the best options for saving more of your belongings and eradicating fire damage as competently as possible.

If your commercial property in Raleigh, NC, needs some serious TLC after a devastating fire, hiring trained professionals to clear away smoke damage is a smart move. Any soot damage is disposed of correctly while the expert smoke cleaning process eliminates any pesky odors that can linger behind.