Smoke Alarms and Your Family's Fire Safety Plan

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

You can Avoid important Fire Damage by Following our Tips.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, smoke and gases put homeowners in danger faster than flames during residential fires, and the majority of these dangerous fires happen when victims are sleeping.

A smoke alarm provides vital additional moments for escape, but to enjoy the benefits of safety devices, they must be placed and maintained appropriately:

• According to manufacturer instructions
• Inside each bedroom
• On each floor of the home
• Outside bedrooms
• In rooms where fire risk is higher

Unfortunately, many homes in Salt Lake City, UT, and surrounding communities don’t have working alarms or enough detectors. Take a few moments to determine the best smoke detector plan for your home.

Answers to Common Questions About Your Smoke Alarm and Fire Safety Plan

Which type of device is best?

There are several options available today, including ionization, photoelectric, and combination. Ionization alarms are best at detecting fires that burst into flames rapidly while photoelectric devices track smoldering, smoky fires best.

Most experts recommend using both types or combination detectors in your home. Test your alarms once a month and replace batteries at least once a year. Most devices should be replaced after 10 years; some need to be switched out more often.

What are smart smoke detectors?

These devices come in both ionization and photoelectric types, and they work in the same way that traditional alarms work. However, smart devices also send an alert to your smartphone, connect several smart detectors, and may work with other smart features throughout your home. This improves your chances of responding quickly to a fire.

What are the most important features of fire alarms?

In addition to making sure you have both types of detectors, make sure you have a reliable source of power for each alarm. Battery-powered devices are a good option in older homes, but new construction provides a chance for connected systems that run on your home’s electricity with a battery backup. Hard-wired systems that are interconnected provide more escape time. Some alarms have voice features that may be more effective at waking children when detectors sound.

What should our fire safety plan include?

Create a fire escape plan with multiple escape routes (preferably two for each room) and practice these routes with your family often. Make sure your family members know where to meet after evacuating your home. Make sure that you practice your escape from every room in the home and practice during the day and night. In the best-case scenario, your children will respond automatically to leave the home immediately when an alarm sounds.

What about putting out fires?

Naturally, the best answer is prevention. Talk to your fire department about the steps you can take to reduce the risk in your home. Use this opportunity to become familiar with fire extinguishers and how to use them. Your quick action could prevent a small fire from spreading.

Your most important action during a residential fire is making sure that you and your family are safe once the smoke alarm sounds. Once you leave the home, don’t return for any reason. Any damage that occurs to the home can be repaired by home restoration professionals but treating the physical and emotional harm to family members is harder.

Got a Sewer Backup? Get Professional Cleanup Help

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

Got a Sewer Backup? Just call Our Specialists!

As a homeowner in Park City, UT, you want your home to be a safe and welcoming place. If you come into find the sewer has backed up, it means black water is seeping into the porous materials in the home and potentially spreading. Sewer cleanup requires extra attention to safety, which is why it’s best to call a water damage and restoration company to handle the mess.

Important Steps in the Cleanup Process

Sewer Backup Cleanup Process

Black water, classified as Category 3 by the IICRC, means that there are potential contaminants, bacteria, chemicals and microorganisms lurking within it. Even a flooded toilet may be in this category, so it’s important to not just dive right in.

Sewer Cleanup Process

When you hire a professional company, you get peace of mind that the entire problem will be handled by one trusted company. Trained and certified professionals will have the expertise, safety gear and industry-grade tools to get your home back to like new. While every situation has different degrees of severity, the cleanup process typically involves the following steps.

• Containment: Containing the affected area is the first vital step. This will help ensure that secondary damage doesn’t spread to other areas.
• Extraction: Standing water and waste will be extracted using high-grade pumps and other tools. The waste and contaminated water will be properly disposed of. Water-logged belongings will also be removed and taken off-site to be inspected for salvageability.
• Dry Out: Air dryers and movers, along with dehumidifiers, will be used to thoroughly dry the area.
• Clean, Sanitize, Deodorize: After the area is dry, the real cleaning process begins. An array of industry-recommended cleaning methods will be used to ensure peace of mind.
• Restoration: The final, and often longest step, involves restoring the property to preloss condition. This may include replacing drywall, carpeting, flooring and other structural components depending on the degree of damage.

Prevention Tips

Once you have dealt with a sewer issue, you don’t want a repeat situation happening. While there may not be much a homeowner can do if it was due to a city sewer issue, there are ways to minimize the risk in regard to your sewer line.

If it’s been a while since you have had your plumbing inspected, now is a perfect time. A professional plumber will inspect the valves and pipes to ensure they are working properly and have the know-how to detect potential problems.

The easiest way to keep your sewer working right is to practice good habits. Avoid flushing chemical products or any items other than waste and toilet paper down the drain. In the kitchen, ensure that grease is being properly thrown away and not going down the drain. This causes a buildup in the pipes that will eventually affect the main sewer.

While trees add to a property’s aesthetic, know where your sewer pipes are before planting. Tree roots will quickly make their way through older pipes, causing an eventual clog or collapse.

Sewer cleanup is a messy job and one that requires adhering to strict safety protocols. Instead of dealing with it on your own, it's best to consider hiring a professional to handle the job from beginning to end.

What You Should Know About Water Damage

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Follow our tips and Know more about Water Damage.

Water damage involves apparent (and not-so-apparent) destruction that comes from the presence of water in places that it shouldn’t be, especially for an extended length of time.

Damage can range from something as minor as a leaky water line to a refrigerator to something more catastrophic such as flooring or sewage backup.

Unattended water issues can impact building materials, compromising the structural integrity of your home. Water also creates the right environment for the growth and spread of mold. Cleaning up water quickly is an important part of taking care of your home.

Categorizing Water Damage

Damage from water falls into three categories, based on the source and severity of contamination:

Category 1:

The least severe category of damage, this water usually comes from broken pipes or overflow of a sink. Category 1 water is free of toxins and sewage, and usually the places impacted are also clean. Sometimes this water is called clean water.

Category 2:

Water in this category probably contains some contaminants and should be cleaned as quickly as possible. Also known as grey water, this damage usually comes from toilets (without feces), sump pump backups, and discharge from appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines that clean dirty objects. Clean water that has been standing around for more than 48 hours can become category 2 water. 

Category 3:

Also known as black water, this category includes water that is severely contaminated with bacteria, fungi, and other microbes. Category 3 water sources include toilets containing feces, groundwater, outside flooding, and sewage backup among others.

Grey water that hasn’t been removed or cleaned in 48 hours should be handled as black water.

While clean water can usually be safely handled through drying, different types of water damage require approaches. Because this damage can lead to severe problems, it’s important to reach out to your nearest SERVPRO franchise in Salt Lake City, UT to professionally clean and remediate damage in any category.

Understanding the Cleanup Process

Generally, the water cleanup process should include the following steps, some of which should be left to the professionals:

• Shut off the water: Before you do anything else, make sure to stop the flow of water when applicable. Turn off the main supply to your home before proceeding further.
• Turn off the power: Electric and electronic items may be affected by water damage. It may not be safe to unplug items, so cut off the electric supply to affected areas using your breaker box.
• Check for mold: Mold may be visible on some surfaces. You may also detect a musty order. Because mold can grow and spread under floors, behind walls, and in ceilings, your professional damage restoration provider is equipped to remove structural elements to assess the extent of the spread.
• Remove the water: Remove excess water with buckets, vacs, or through drying, where possible.
• Remove damaged objects: Water-soaked carpet, drywall, insulation, and other materials should be physically removed.
• Disinfect and sanitize: Grey and black water involve contaminants that should be thoroughly cleaned.

Water damage is serious business at your home in Salt Lake City, UT. The longer it’s left unaddressed, the bigger your problem. Reach out to the professionals who are equipped to return your home to pre-damage conditions with special approaches to cleaning, drying, repair, and reconstruction.

How To Make a Flood Claim?

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Learn how to make your Flood Claim by Following These Tips.

Floods can cause devastating damage to homes. The first step to restoring your property after a flood is to file a flood claim.

How To File a Flood Insurance Claim

Filling your claim for flood damage is a multi-step process:

1. Contact the Insurance Company

The first thing you must do is contact your insurance company. Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage so your flood insurance may be with a different insurance company than your homeowner's insurance. If you aren't sure who your insurance carrier is, you can call the National Flood Insurance Program Call Center at 1-800-427-4661 to find out.

2. Provide Information

Your insurance company will need several pieces of information. This may include your policy number, a phone number and email address where your insurance company can contact you and the name of your mortgage company if you have one. If you don't know all of this information, your insurance or claims agent may be able to look it up for you.

3. Document Your Damage

It usually takes 24-48 hours for your insurance company to assign an adjuster to your claim. However, if flooding is widespread, it may take longer. While you are waiting, take photos and videos of your damaged property and the flood lines on the outside and inside of structures. Photograph the make, model and serial number of electronics and appliances. Do not enter flooded areas or structures until you have been told they are safe.

4. Discard Flood Damaged Items That Are Unsafe

After you take photos and keep samples of materials such as pieces of carpet, flooring, drapes or wallpaper, throw away flood-damaged items that are unsafe to keep, such as perishable food, cushions, clothing and pillows.

5. Contact Repair Services

If the electrical, HVAC or water systems of your home are damaged, contact repair services. However, talk to your insurance company about your flood claim before you sign any contracts. This is also a good time to schedule a flood remediation company in Park City, UT, to begin drying and cleaning your damaged home.

6. Meet With the Adjuster

When the insurance adjuster arrives, ask to see the adjuster's Flood Control Number card and other official identification. This protects you against scammers who may be posing as insurance adjusters. Review the adjuster's written report and estimate for any errors. A legitimate insurance adjuster will not ask you to pay your deductible, charge you a fee or ask for money for any other reason.

7. Receive Payment and Begin Repairs

Once the insurance company receives the adjuster's report and estimate, it will review the report, along with any documentation you have provided, to establish the value of your claim. If you disagree with the value the insurance company determines, you may need to submit additional supporting documentation to prove your claim. Once a settlement is reached, the insurance company will issue you a check and you can use the money to make repairs.

The flood claim process can be lengthy, particularly if there are many people in your area with damaged property. The faster you get the process started, the sooner you can expect to receive payment.

How Pretesting Property Reduces Insurance Claims

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

Know more about Insurance Claims. If you have more doubts, just contact us.

Is pretesting for damage before claim approval in your customer's best interest? Is the procedure helpful to you, the insurer? Our locally owned SERVPRO franchises seek to help both sides, satisfying our clients and their insurance agencies. Staff members in Salt Lake City, UT work to provide vital data to guide both parties through the restoration and claim process. We can minimize future troubles and filings with swift action and early detection. Here are three main points to know and understand.

Important Points to Know about Insurance Claims

1. Awareness Reduces Insurance Claim Costs and Secondary Damage

Water damage requires intense cleanup because the moisture harms the building and items. Improperly treated or untreated water damage leads to several problems, particularly mold and mildew. Water sits idly within objects and materials, allowing spores to reproduce. These microbes multiply quickly. Within a day or two, an infestation can spread throughout a room.

Without early testing, commercial owners may miss critical steps in the repairs, focusing on the drying procedures and ignoring the potential for eventual growth. What if a room is saturated but isn't visibly detectable? The fungus could grow, requiring a claim in a few months or a year. Furthermore, people may realize that personal objects such as chairs and clothing received impact, requesting property loss reimbursement months after the event.

Prompt detection allows clients to file simultaneously and reduces confusion and debates.

2. Testing Focuses on Immediate Needs and Future Complications

When owners call a team for help, the crew arrives ready to complete a thorough pretesting evaluation. They look to the source, immediately working to resolve the problem. By stopping the water flow and identifying the origin, owners and agents have less to fix.

It's about the present and the future, so experts then begin collecting specimens to note the level of contamination. Air and physical collections provide a clear overview of whether microbes have set into the walls, floor and belongings. Moisture reading tools detail the extent of fluid saturation, and inspections occur within various rooms to note deterioration and structural concerns.

The goal is to identify both visible and invisible sources of immediate and long-term hazards. Catching trouble early allows for early intervention and reduces owner claims.

3. Testing Informs Insurance Agents About Property Conditions

When proprietors submit a claim, you, as the insurance agent, want assurance that this problem did not result from prior negligence or misconduct. Did an owner know that the water heater was leaking? Was there an underlying problem that they should have caught earlier? Business leaders often underestimate the potential for mold and water development from something minor, but it does matter. You need this factor ruled out before you release a claim check.

After an early investigation by remediation professionals, agencies and clients receive a detailed report noting how something happened, what experts can do about it and how the team could prevent future contamination issues.

Pretesting benefits both the commercial owner and the insurer, guiding both through the restoration process and understanding the impact of the damage. Using innovative technology and reacting quickly allows SERVPRO to get ahead of issues, minimizing additional claims.

What To Do If Your Commercial Building's Roof Is Damaged in a Fire

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

If Your Commercial Building's Roof Is Damaged in a Fire, just Call the Professionals.

Even a relatively small fire can cause major damage to your Park City, UT, commercial property. The flames could burn important documents, and the smoke odor could permeate carpets and furniture. However, there can be other causes of harm. Firefighters often cut holes in the roof of a burning property to prevent the flames from growing. This strategy removes the dark smoke that can hinder the firefighters’ visions as they battle the flames. Yet it also necessitates roof repair after the fire has been extinguished.

Hire a Tarp Services Provider After a Fire

You should hire fire cleanup professionals who will put a tarp on your property. A tarp can temporarily cover any holes in the roof, keeping out the elements until the roof has been fully repaired. The experts should also board up the doors and windows so vandals cannot enter the premises. Here are three other steps to take if your roof is damaged in a fire.

1. Call Your Insurance Provider

While professional restoration services can be expensive, the money from your insurance policy should cover at least some of this cost. Ask your insurance representative for a written estimate. You should also ask the rep what else you can do to minimize further harm to the property.

If you do not have property insurance, or if your coverage is limited, you may be able to find help from other sources. Local organizations and public agencies often provide emergency funds. You could also ask the Salvation Army or American Red Cross for assistance.

2. Stay Safe

Do not re-enter your building until firefighters say that you can. After they are done putting out the flames, they will check your gas and electricity systems. Any rainwater that does enter the property through your damaged roof may affect these utilities.

If the utilities are unsafe to use, the firefighters will disconnect them. The fire cleanup experts should tell you when it is safe to turn on the utilities again.

Even if you are given permission to enter the property, you should still be extra careful. Walls and floors may not be as sturdy as they appear.

3. Replace or Restore Valuables

Your commercial property likely has important documents, such as tax records and insurance policies. A fire could burn these documents directly, or it could cause a roof defect that leads to weather elements harming the documents.

You may be able to obtain new copies of some of these items. However, more proprietary documents may be tough to replace. Try to find restoration experts who can salvage important paperwork. Be sure to save the bill or receipt from the remediation company. You may have to show it to your insurance provider.

Excessive roof damage can make the fire cleanup process more difficult. However, by taking advantage of tarp services, you can limit any harm caused by a hole in the roof. Calling your insurance provider, keeping off your utilities if necessary, and having important documents restored or replaced should also expedite the recovery.

What Role Does the Federal Emergency Management Agency Play After a Storm?

5/7/2022 (Permalink)

Take into account these tips and Avoid Storm Damage in your Property.

Wherever you reside, the unthinkable could occur at any time. When a disaster devastates your property and others' in Salt Lake City, UT, you'll probably feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. If the loss is significant enough, the Federal Emergency Management Agency may be dispatched to the scene.

FEMA was formed in 1979 to "lead America to prepare for, prevent, respond to and recover from disasters with a vision of 'A Nation Prepared.'" For example, it assists survivors of disasters such as severe flooding in rebuilding their lives. It has helped with numerous tragedies in the past and continues to now. It serves several important roles, including the following.

4 Roles FEMA Serves After a Storm

1. Assessing the Affected Areas

First, it performs detailed assessments of the area in which tragedy has hit. It determines what type of assistance the victims require. These needs can vary depending on the kind of disaster. It basically operates as the "boots on the ground" for everything from hurricanes to wildfires to terror attacks."

2. Acting as a Liaison Between Federal and Local

It acts as a liaison between the affected area and the federal government. Various factors are controlled physically and financially by FEMA. It usually involves allocating supplies, maintaining resources and working with local and state officials.

3. Determining the Appropriate Response

It determines the required response and assembles the appropriate troops. Law enforcement, for example, may be needed. Hurricanes and other kinds of disasters can bear several types of significant losses. This can include damage from wind, flooding and even fires.

4. Coordinating the Response

Finally, it helps coordinate responses such as mobilizing troops to evacuate people, provide tarps for roofs and distribute food and water. It also locates and provides shelter and other basic needs for displaced victims.

Although FEMA takes significant control after a disaster occurs, their help is no substitute for insurance. If you have a flood or other kinds of loss, storm damage remediation experts will likely also be necessary. They can return your home to its preloss condition as quickly as possible.

Does Your Homeowner's Policy Cover Water Damage?

5/7/2022 (Permalink)

Learn more about Your Homeowner's Policy by following Our Tips.

Many homeowners who experience a basement flood or water damage are concerned about the cost for a remediation and restoration company in Salt Lake City, UT. However, while the general thought is that your insurance coverage will not cover water damage, that is likely not entirely accurate.

Most homeowner's policies will cover some water damage, but it is vital to know the specifics surrounding each situation, those covered and not.

4 Situations That May Need Insurance Coverage

1. Accidental and Sudden

Most insurance companies will cover accidental or sudden water loss. Therefore, if you experience a pipe break or if your water heater suddenly failed and flooded your basement, your policy will probably cover some of the resulting damage, like structural issues or drywall damage. However, not every plan will include the damaged component or appliance that caused the problem.

2. Unresolved Maintenance Issue

Nearly all insurers will refuse to cover unresolved maintenance issues that result in a basement flood. If you know about a leak, or if you have an appliance that is well past its prime, then you will likely have to pay for any resulting damage.

3. External Flood

If you live in a flood zone, or if you are concerned about the possibility of a flood, make sure you have flood insurance. A standard homeowner's policy will not cover flood damage. While most homeowner's plans will not cover flooding, if you are in a flood zone, it is a possibility that flood coverage is regulated and required.

4. Outside Source

Sewer backups or other external causes for internal water damage are also likely not covered by your homeowner's policy. Check with your insurer to be sure.

It is vital to know what you are protected against through your standard insurance plan. If necessary, you can purchase more coverage from other insurers to ensure that your home is protected against a basement flood.

If you have concerns about your protection needs, consider talking to a remediation company in your area. They can assess your property and give you advice about possible mitigation and preventative steps you can take.

Safely Use a Plumber's Snake To Fix Your Clogged Pipe

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

Learn how to Safely Use a Plumber's Snake so as to Fix Your Clogged Pipe.

A clogged pipe can quickly lead to water damage and the need for repairs. In Salt Lake City, UT, SERVPRO professionals respond Faster to Any Size Disaster, helping you avoid serious disruptions to your normal schedule. Sometimes, however, clearing a clog on your own is possible.

How To Snake Your Clogged Pipe

Clearing the pipes may be a messy chore, but it prevents more significant trouble, such as a pipe break or sewer system backup. To get started, you'll need a few tools:

• Plumber's snake
• Bucket for garbage
• Rags for cleanup
• Gloves and goggles for your comfort and protection

Most drain snakes are generic and can be used for multiple drains and pipes. However, there are some snakes specifically for toilets or showers. If you have questions, ask for advice from an experienced plumber or property maintenance professional. Once you've gathered your tools, clear the area and spread out rags to protect the floor from water damage.

Try Other Options

Before pulling out your plumbing snake, you could try other methods of unclogging the drain, such as a combination of baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water. This mixture may dissolve a variety of organic clogs. You could also try using a plunger, forming a vacuum seal, and pulling out the obstructions.

Remove Visible Obstructions

Pushing the snake into your drain often results in shoving stopped objects further into the pipes. This can compound the clog rather than clear it. Before taking this step, pull out all of the objects you can see. This includes hair, food, and other items that shouldn't be in the drains:

• Fats, grease, oil
• Soap buildup
• Hard water minerals
• Inappropriately flushed items

Understand How the Snake Works

A plumbing snake consists of a handle, a flexible pole, and a rotating auger. As you slide the snake into the drain and connecting pipes, rotate the handle. This extends the tool up to 50 feet long. As the auger turns, it should break through blockages, loosening the clogged materials and allowing the debris and the water to flow through as intended.

When you feel resistance, you may have reached a corner or the obstruction. Move the head back and forth and from side to side. The snake should turn the corner or break through the clog.

If the head is stuck or if you hear a scraping sound, use the handle to retract the snake. Either the obstruction will come back with the auger, or you can try one more time. It may be necessary at this point to contact a plumber to remove the obstruction. It is possible to damage your pipes with a drain snake, so don't proceed if you aren't sure of yourself.

Perform Routine Maintenance

In general, using a drain snake is a task you perform after a clog has formed, and it's pretty common to use the tool once or twice a year. However, proper maintenance and system assessments are important steps in enjoying a smoothly operating water system. The cleanup and repair professionals at SERVPRO can help you recover from water damage. With consistent maintenance and attention, you can avoid many clogged pipes and related troubles.

Best Tips for Dealing With Puffback Damage

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Repairing Puffback Damage needs Experienced Hands. For more questions, contact us.

A puffback takes place when your oil-burning furnace fails to ignite properly due to clogs, leaks, and other issues. It’s also a sign that your heating system demands the attention of a serviceperson.

Because your system is connected to multiple rooms, this blowing back of soot and smoke not only contaminates the air, but it also leaves a sticky residue on various surfaces that requires the equipment and cleaning techniques offered by a professional restoration services provider. If you experience puffback damage in your property in Park City, UT, here’s what you should know about dealing with the aftermath.

Important Steps After Furnace Puffback

If you detect evidence of puffback or experience it when operating your oil furnace, take the following steps first:

Call 911: Because a puffback happens due to an explosion, you’ll need the fire department to either extinguish any fires or confirm that there are none.

Shut down: Turn off the power to your furnace and heating system.

Evacuate: A furnace puffback increases the level of carbon monoxide in your facility, so exit the premises as quickly as possible.

Open up: Open windows and doors if possible on your way out.

Unplug: If safe, unplug electric and electronic devices as you exit the building

Discard: After returning to the building, throw away food and other perishables with soot and smoke damage.

Call: Schedule a certified technician to repair your furnace and hire professionals to clean affected rooms and belongings.

The Need for the Professional Touch

Cleanup of puffback damage requires a professional approach for multiple reasons:

DIY cleaning methods aren’t effective for removing smoke and soot from surfaces. In fact, often these approaches can exacerbate the situation. For example, vacuuming will push soot particles deeper into carpets, rugs, clothing, and upholstery, leading to permanent stains.

Special cleaning techniques prevent soot and odors from being embedded in walls, floors, and ceilings. It’s impossible to cover the oily residue with primer and paint.

Glass, metal, and other surfaces are susceptible to corrosion and other damage if left exposed to smoke and soot.

Furnace puffback will not only cover every surface, but particles may end up in cracks and openings below floors, behind walls, above ceilings, and other difficult places to reach.

Your damage restoration services provider has the experience, equipment, and expertise to restore your property to pre-damage conditions, including cleanup of damage due to fire and water if needed. The experts will prioritize cleanup and repair over replacement to help control costs. If your building requires reconstruction, the pros can take care of that also. While you hope to never experience puffback damage in your building, it’s important to be aware of the gravity of the situation.

Assessing the immediate damage, fixing your heating system, and cleanup should only be handled by the pros, namely the fire department, a certified technician, and a restoration services provider respectively.

This is your charge as a responsible property owner, committed to proper maintenance and upkeep for the benefit of your building occupants. Keep in mind that insurance companies prefer to work with professional restoration companies

What To Know About Making a Residential Water Damage Claim

4/9/2022 (Permalink)

Know More about Residential Water Damage Claims by Following our Tips.

Making a water damage claim for your home can be a stressful experience. That is because homeowners' insurance policies are often confusing. Typically, damage caused by emergency situations, such as bursting pipes, is included in your policy. Other types of damage that may be covered include:

• Sewer backup
• Floods
• Storms
• Overflow

Yet even a robust policy does not cover all kinds of damage. Here are some things you should know before making an insurance claim.

When Is Water Damage Covered by Insurance?

Your insurance policy should cover a sudden and accidental discharge of water in your Salt Lake City, UT, home. However, most policies exclude coverage for gradual damage that occurs over an extended period.

Over time, parts of your home will experience wear and tear. This could result in water damaging various parts of the house. For instance, basement cracks could cause liquid to seep into the lower level of your home. A leaky pipe could also lead to a buildup of water inside your walls.

Insurance companies believe that you need to take reasonable steps to care for your home. That means inspecting the property regularly and fixing any issues right away. If your house suffers gradual damage, the insurance company will assume that you were negligent in your maintenance of the home and will likely deny your claim. You will then have to pay for water restoration services yourself.

Still, even this general rule has some exceptions. You may have to pay to replace or fix broken pipe yourself if the harm to the pipe occurred over time. However, the insurer may still cover any resulting damage that occurred as a result of the break.

Another common yet complicated situation occurs when a tree falls onto a roof and creates a hole. Your insurance provider will likely cover the costs of fixing the hole and addressing any damage caused by the water entering your home through the hole.

Yet what happens if you notice new water or mold damage near the hole months after the repairs have been completed? In this case, your insurer may still cover this additional harm if it was also caused by the original roof hole.

In general, mold is not covered by home insurance policies. Yet you may have coverage if the mold results from bursting pipes or another covered peril. Ask your insurance broker if it is possible to add mold coverage to your policy.

How Can You Decrease the Chances of Your Claim Being Denied?

There are several things you can do to prevent the denial of your water insurance claim. First, make sure to purchase a policy that addresses all of your needs. Do not be afraid to ask about any add-ons, such as mold coverage.

Performing timely repairs of your home is important, as well. Your claim will likely be denied if the provider determines that you have not been taking care of your property. Keep records of all repairs that you or a third party has performed over the years.

While damage caused by bursting pipes is often covered by insurance, your provider may reject other water-related claims. By performing regular maintenance on your home, you should increase the odds of your claim being accepted.

Dealing With Flooding in a Commercial Basement

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Follow our Tips and Learn More about how to deal With Flooding in your Commercial Basement.

Commercial basements offer plenty of storage options, but knowing the possibility of a basement flood should make any owner question what they store in the lower level of their building. If you happen to have a flood, you should contact a water restoration service in Park City, UT, to assist in recovery. These services will typically come at a flood in a three-step process:

• Water removal
• Debris Removal
• Restoration

However, before contacting a professional service, you might want to contact your insurer to discuss your commercial insurance coverage. Depending on how the flooding occurred, it is possible that your policy could cover a significant portion of the restoration.

1. Water Removal

The primary concern is the standing water in your facility’s basement. The longer it sits, the more problems can arise. The sooner a remediation service can get to your property and begin removing the water with shop vacuums, pumps, and pump trucks, the better.
When the water is removed, the service will attempt to dry out the basement as quickly as possible using fans, air movers, and dehumidifiers. Quickness is essential to reducing the risk of mold.

2. Debris Removal

After a basement flood, many business owners have an instinct to salvage, but salvaging items might be impossible or irrational depending on the type of flood. The consensus among the restoration community is that any appliances or porous items touched by gray or black water should be discarded. Appliances might also need to be thrown away if submerged in clean water.

3. Restoration

Once the flooded area is dry, and debris cleared away, the restoration company can begin making structural and cosmetic repairs. When this phase is complete, a business will look as it did before the disaster.

A basement flood at a commercial facility is something that requires immediate attention. Contact your insurance company to learn about your coverage, and reach out to a remediation service to understand your options.

Everything You Need To Know About Removing Shower Mold

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Learn More About Removing Shower Mold by Following These Tips.

Shower mold is a disgusting reality. The smell and appearance are repulsive and agreeable to neither residents nor guests. Rid yourself of this mess the moment it appears and stop further growth. Here's a practical guide to eradicating fungal invaders.

Understanding Types of Shower Mold

Before cleaning your shower of mold, know what type you have. The categories of mold that exist include:

• Allergenic
• Pathogenic

Black mold, also known as Stachybotrys is among the most concerning and demands caution. Wear protective gloves and breathing apparatuses for safety's sake. As soon as you notice the problem, refuse to allow anyone to use the facility. If you feel unsure about removing it properly yourself, hire a mold remediation specialist to do it for you.

Creating a Mold Removal Solution

You can use a homemade solution to take care of a moldy bathroom. One of the best is nothing fancier than white vinegar. Head to your local grocer in Park City, UT, and pick up a bottle. No dilution is necessary. It smells a bit, yet the aroma usually disappears within a couple of hours.

Borax is another effective option. Mix one cup with a gallon of water, then funnel the solution into your spray bottle. You can find what you seek in the laundry section of most stores.

Bleach should be a last resort. While effective at killing mold, care is necessary. Mix with plenty of water, and stay vigilant that children and pets do not touch it. Always keep the room well ventilated when using bleach.

Using Your Mold Removal Solution

Spray your solution on mold everywhere it appears. Exercise discretion and do not use so much that excessive liquid pools beneath. Avoid injury from slips by wearing shoes with rubber soles or staying on your knees.

Take a clean, dry cloth, and wipe down the affected area. The mold should come off without a problem. Alternatively, use a sponge designed for the task. Mold in certain areas may require extra effort. Employ a scrub brush to extract fungi from crevices between tiles and within hard-to-reach corners. Keep this tool nearby in case you missed any mold and growth returns.

Use a toothbrush on grout. Back and forth motions are advisable for best results. Rinse the brush as you clean to reduce the possibility of spreading spores.

Drying the Cleaned Area

Take a cleaning cloth, and sop up any remaining wetness. This task picks up bits of mold that have been scrubbed loose in addition to drying everything. Further, it lowers the odds of black mold coming back to haunt you. Swap out the cloth you're using for a fresh one once it becomes overly saturated or filthy. As a finishing touch, cover mold stains with commercially available caulking.

Ridding yourself of shower mold is vital for living in a comfortable home. Thankfully, the task does not require excessive struggle. Without a doubt, you will feel happier once invasive growths no longer haunt your washroom.

What To Expect During Restoration After a House Fire

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Learn More about Restoration After a House Fire, by Following These Tips.

Even if the flames get extinguished before a total loss, a fire in your Salt Lake City, UT home still means dealing with the aftermath. After ensuring everyone’s safety and filing a claim, the next step is contacting a professional fire restoration company. Along with expertise with soot and smoke damage, a professional will also be able to properly correct any water damage sustained while the fire was being put out. Once the experts arrive, you can expect the following five steps to happen as they get your home back to once it what was.

Important Tips to Consider about Restoration After a House Fire

1. Damage Assessment

Before any work begins, an assessment of the damage needs to happen. First, it means ensuring the property is safe to enter. After that, the experts will inspect the property to determine the height of the flames, amount of water intrusion, contents affected and more. They will identify items that must be tossed, as well as possessions that will be able to be packed up to be taken to a secure site for deep cleaning and restoration.

This step provides the homeowner and insurer a solid understanding of how much work will be required, how long it will take and the estimated cost.

2. Property Securement

A key element of fire restoration is ensuring the property is secure. The last thing homeowners want is extra damage to an already damaged home. Work will be completed to board up openings and seal the roof to keep unexpected weather and intruders out. In some cases, a temporary fence will be installed. This step also involves removing perimeter debris and sealing off unaffected areas to reduce the potential of the damage spreading.

3. Dry Out

When it comes to damage cleaning, getting the home dry is critical. While that may seem strange when dealing with a fire, it’s likely a significant amount of water was needed to extinguish the flames. Water removal is essential to keeping mold and other secondary damage at bay. Professionals use industrial equipment to speed up this process, as well as have the knowledge and know-how to remove and water-logged materials prone to spreading the damage, such as drywall.

4. Cleanup

Before the home can be returned to its original state, deep cleaning must happen. The most intensive step of the process, it involves removing smoke and soot damage from all surfaces, inside and outside. Oftentimes, this will include cleaning the ducts to ensure that no lingering odors or damage is left behind. After cleaning, the home will be thoroughly deodorized and treated to eradicate mold growth.

5. Restoration

During this last step, repairs will be made to damaged areas. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may mean replacing or rebuilding the roof, walls, floors, cabinets and more. While it may seem overwhelming, it is a necessary task to ensure that the home is back to like new.

Dealing with a fire is never anything anyone wants to deal with. While fire restoration may not be a fast process, getting the right help means restoring your home to its preloss condition faster and more efficiently.

5 Tips To Minimize Commercial Winter Storm Damage

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips and Minimize Commercial Winter Storm Damage in your Park City, UT property.

For businesses in Park City, UT, a harsh winter storm is a given, not a maybe. Although Mother Nature may be unpredictable, there are ways to help protect your business from the snow, ice, sleet and wind. Below are five tips to minimize damage and keep your business thriving during harsh conditions.

1. Create a Business Continuity Plan

While storm damage may not be completely unavoidable, developing a business continuity plan helps a business better handle an unwanted disruption. These plans are essential to protect assets and employees while still getting the job done. A plan should include a detailed outline of all business procedures and steps to take when bad weather hits. This should include backup sites to conduct business, team member responsibilities, vendor contact information and a risk assessment.

2. Watch for Weather Warnings

Maintaining a pulse on potential bad weather is essential. Regularly check forecasts to be better prepared for adverse weather coming your way. By doing so, business owners will have more time to make preparations for the impending winter storm. Luckily, there are many apps for smartphones that provide instant updates on any weather warnings or approaching storms. It also may be worth assigning a person to be in charge of this task.

3. Prevent Pipes From Freezing

Winter weather may bring ice and snow to mind, but flooding from a pipe break is also a common concern. If the building's pipes are not insulated, now is the time to call a plumber to make that happen. If cold weather hits, ensure that the building’s temperature doesn’t dip below 55 degrees. Make sure that any outdoor irrigation systems or hoses are drained.

4. Stay on Top of Roof Maintenance

Heavy snow, high winds and ice dams can do a number on your roof. Since its job is to protect your business, it’s vital to stay on top of roof maintenance and repairs. It is ideal to have the roof inspected by a professional annually. Regular checks should also be done after any type of storm. Even a minimal amount of damage may turn into a severe problem when snow piles up.

During inspections, check for any supports that are compromised or missing material. Once snow sits on these areas, it may lead to a leak or collapse. No matter the time of year, never wait to make a roof repair.

5. Get a Generator

Doing business in the modern era often means investing in a significant amount of electronic equipment. From servers to scanners and desktop computers, a power outage means that business comes to a grinding halt. A generator is a smart investment to keep the lights on and the business running as normal. It will also help ensure that the temperature remains above freezing, which will also help reduce the risk of frozen pipes.

As the cold season sets in, a winter wonderland may easily turn into an expensive endeavor if your property sustains damage. By staying on top of maintenance and being prepared, business owners are able to minimize the effects of a winter storm.

How Much Damage Can a Winter Storm Do?

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Prevent Storm Damage by following These Tips related to Winter Storms. For more information, just call us.

Homeowners are usually well aware of the potential hazards of a winter storm; they expect snowfall, ice accumulation, and the potential for slips and falls and car accidents. Still, most remediation specialists in Salt Lake City, UT, also warn of potential structural damage.

While homes in heavy snow climates will usually have the qualities and characteristics that allow them to withstand heavy snow and frigid temperatures, homeowners still need to be aware of their responsibilities to ensure quality home care.

There are several things you want to do to ensure your home is protected from the encroaching winter weather.

• Shovel and salt pathways
• Maintain a clear and clean roof
• Assess seals on all entryways and windows
• Check the HVAC system

Winter Storm Damage and Recovery

A blizzard can be a common winter storm, and it brings with it frigid temperatures and a tremendous amount of snow. While these storms present significant travel threats, they also present risks to your house. The weight of the snow can lead to extensive roof damage; the temperatures can result in cracked windows, and heavy ice might result in power outages.

While there are multiple threats to your property during a winter storm, it is necessary to focus on a quick recovery after the storm. Wintertime is no time to be without power or heat. You should contact a mitigation professional so they can provide a quick response and recovery.

Common Damages During a Winter Storm

Winter storms will often result in roof damage because of snow and ice buildup. Depending on the style of your roof and its integrity, the weight of the snow could cause minor to severe collapses. If the roof is strong enough to hold out, it is possible that it will succumb to water damage.

When ice builds along the edges of a roof, it creates ice dams. As the weather warms, these dams and the snow melt, forcing the water to find alternative exits. Unfortunately, the water will typically back up under the shingles and soak into the sheathing. If enough water makes it to the underlayer of the roof, it could rot the wood or cause mold.

Aside from roof damage, the cold and ice can lead to power outages and window and door damage. Depending on the style of your HVAC system, you could lose heat during a winter storm. If the heat is out for too long, the frigid temperature could cause windows and doors to crack.

Fundamental Recovery From the Storm

After a winter storm, you should assess your property. You want to look for cracks in windows and inspect the thickness of the snow on the roof. You should be careful if you get on a ladder in the snow. The steps can become slick, resulting in falls. It is better to call a remediation professional to the scene. These specialists have the right tools to make professional property assessments.

A severe winter storm is nothing to play around with. You want to remain sheltered during the storm, but you should assess your property afterward to assess potential damage. Contact a remediation company if you need help.

Fire Alarm Basics You Need To Know

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Learn More about Fire Alarms by following These Tips and prevent Fire Damage in your Park City, UT Home.

The fire alarm is one of the most effective ways to keep your home and family safe from a fire. The more you know about this convenient, affordable tool, the better you can use them in your home. Home fires can be some of the most frightening experiences that impact your home and maintaining a proper prevention and detection system is a vital element of keeping your family safe.

Five Useful Facts and Tips About the Fire Alarm

Which alarms are best? How many should you have in your home? What type of maintenance do alarms require? Installing and maintaining an effective alarm system doesn't have to be difficult, but it does call for some basic information.

1. Smoke alarms have different purposes.

Whether you refer to them as fire or smoke alarms or detectors, it's important to understand the different types and purposes of the alarms. A photoelectric alarm is more likely to recognize a smoldering fire as smoke particles disrupt an internal light sensor. Ionization alarms quickly respond to high flames.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends using both types of alarms in your home or a combination alarm that contains both technologies.

2. You probably need more alarms in your home.

You should have a detector inside each bedroom and in the hallway outside of the bedrooms. You also need a detector on every floor of your home. Consider hanging one in the kitchen, the garage, and other areas of the home where combustible materials are used and stored.

3. Smoke detectors require maintenance and inspections.

You may have already responded to that piercing chirping of an alarm with dying batteries. In addition to the once or twice-yearly battery replacement, you should test each alarm once a month or more often. Look for the test button on your alarm and hold it for a few seconds. You should hear a very loud beep. If you can't hear it or if the alarm is quiet, it's time to replace the batteries.

4. Don't paint the alarm and keep it free from other obstructions.

While you're testing, watch out for dust and buildup on or around the alarm. Paint, dirt, and grease buildup can prevent airflow around the alarm and stop it from detecting flames and smoke.

5. You should invest in interconnected alarms.

Reach out to professionals for an interconnected fire alarm system. If a fire breaks out in one part of the home, you want your entire family to receive the alarm. It only takes a few minutes for fire to spread throughout your home, so every second of advance warning you have gives you a better chance of safely evacuating. When professionals install your system, you can be confident that alarms are connected correctly and in proper working order.

When fire does affect your Park City, UT, home, there's a lot of potential for water and smoke damage, as well as secondary issues. Learn more about the steps you can take to avoid fire damage by reaching out to your insurance company, the local fire department, and fire mitigation and cleanup professionals.

5 Steps To Take After a Sewer Backup

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Consider these Steps To Take After a Sewer Backup. If you have any doubts, please contact us.

A sewer backup may be one of the most damaging problems with which you have to deal as a business owner or manager in Park City, UT. Not only is it a disgusting process, but you must also keep employees and customers safe from exposure to germs and chemicals. There are specific steps to keep everyone and your building as safe as possible during sewage cleanup.

1. Protect Yourself Against Various Hazards

First, it's essential to protect yourself by wearing personal protective equipment. Available PPE includes hair covers, safety goggles, respirators, rubber gloves, coveralls and waterproof shoe covers. Most of this gear can be bought in disposable form to better prevent cross-contamination. The amount of PPE necessary depends on the severity of the sewage. However, if there is a question, more is better than less.

Also, do not walk into any standing water where electrical components are plugged in. You will need to shut off the power to the area because an electrical current can pass through the water. Merely stepping a foot into the room could be extremely hazardous. If you can't safely navigate to the breaker box, call the power company or experienced electrician to turn the electricity off before you take any further action.

2. Try Unclogging the Blockage

Next, you must unclog the sewer blockage and stop any running water. Shut off the water supply at the source or opt for the entire building. It could take the work of professionals if the backup is down the line a bit. If you have a flooded toilet, you can use a plunger or drain snake to unclog it yourself.

3. Extract All Standing Water

Sewage water contains various bacteria and other contaminants that can quickly spread. During the sewage cleanup process, it's essential to extract the standing water as soon as possible. Standing water can also damage fast, so time is of the essence. If you decide to conquer the task yourself, a wet/dry vacuum can efficiently remove the water and smaller debris.

4. Dry the Area and Contents

Once you have extracted all of the standing water, it's time to dry everything in the affected area as quickly as possible. This could mean tearing out water-damaged flooring (carpet will probably be ruined) and even some drywall. You may also need to remove most if not all of your contents from the area to dry them outside and to thoroughly clean them and the affected area.

You can use fans, heaters and fresh air to dry everything. Water damage restoration professionals can dry an area faster with industrial-grade fans and other equipment.

5. Sanitize the Area and Contents

Finally, everything must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Be sure to get into tiny spaces, even walls and furniture that have come in contact with the water and contaminants. After experiencing a flooded toilet or another type of sewer backup, performing a thorough sewage cleanup is critical. This can be a very labor-intensive job, even for a small amount of standing water. However, taking time to go through each of these steps can keep everyone safe and prevent avoidable damage to your building and its contents.

Commercial Fire Damage 101

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Fire Damage at a business in Salt Lake City, UT.

When your business is on fire in Salt Lake City, UT, you are grateful for every fire truck that responds to your 911 call and every firefighter who holds a fire hose to help put out the blaze. After the last firefighter has coiled up the fire hose and boarded the fire truck to head back to the station, however, you may get your first glimpse of what kinds of fire damage and soot damage with which you are left to cope.

Regardless of whether the fire damage and soot damage was caused by an electrical fire or a utility room fire, it can still be some of the most extensive and complicated commercial fire damage to handle as a business owner. You can get the smoke damage removed and have your fire sprinkler system cleaned and maintained properly to avoid a future electrical fire or utility room fire when you retain the services of a professional commercial fire damage restoration company.

Immediate Response

Despite your best fire suppression efforts to prevent a utility room fire or electrical fire in your business, you still may have to face the possibility of dealing with an extensive commercial fire at some point. Whether the blaze starts because of a faulty fire sprinkler system or simply because your fire suppression tactics were outdated, it can still leave lingering and devastating smoke damage, fire damage, and soot damage in every corner of the building.

As you view the fire damage and soot damage, you might wonder how you can ever get the fire sprinkler system repaired and the rest of your building restored. It all may look like more than you can handle alone.

In fact, the smoke damage as well as water damage from the fire hose and firefighter efforts may be much more than what you are used to coping with by yourself. Rather than tackle such a job unprepared and without the tools you need, you can get the matter dealt with more effectively by retaining a professional fire restoration company.

Fire restoration professionals are trained to respond quickly to and be ready to clean up after an electrical fire, a utility room fire, or any other kind of blaze that impacts your business. After the last firefighter has left and the remaining fire hose rolled up onto the fire truck, the fire restoration contractors can move in and take over the cleanup efforts.

First, they will assess the commercial fire damage that has been inflicted on your building. Based on their findings, they will devise a fire restoration plan that will involve full cleanup of the premises including the inspection and repairs of your fire sprinkler system.

They will use the most modern equipment and cleanup methods to wipe away all signs of water and smoke damage left behind by the firefighter crews. The contractors will also clean up the foam sprayed out by the fire truck, which is commonly used to put out electrical and utility room fires.

Depending on the severity and extensiveness of the commercial fire damage, the contractors may use chemicals like bleach and ammonia as well as gear like shop vacuums and water pumps to dry out and clean up the premises. They also will ensure that the methods they use to clean up and restore the building will be in line with the fire suppression practices that you plan to use to avoid future fires.

You may employ the best fire suppression tactics to keep your building safe. Even so, you still might find yourself the victim of a fire that leaves behind significant damage after it is extinguished.

Because the future of your business relies on how well you deal with the aftermath of a fire, it can be vital that you retain professional fire restoration services rather than try to handle the crisis alone. You can get your business fully restored by entrusting its cleanup to professional contractors.

SERVPRO professionals of Salt Lake City have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

How To Prepare for Flood Damage

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Consider these important tips if you experience Flood Damage in your Salt Lake City, UT property.

Damages from flooding exceed $40 billion worldwide every year. You can reduce the chance of suffering extensive flood damage by taking steps to prepare your property.

Tips for Preparing Your Property for Flood Damage

There are several steps you can take throughout the year and when flooding is imminent to help reduce your chance of damage.

1. Purchase Flood Insurance

Most homeowners insurance excludes coverage for damage caused by floods. Because even areas that are not in high-risk zones for floods can experience flash floods, it may be wise to purchase a separate flood policy. However, do not wait until storm damage is imminent to try to buy insurance. There is usually a 30-day waiting period from the time you buy your policy until it goes into effect.

2. Understand Your Flood Risk

Search for your address in Salt Lake City, UT in the Flood Map Service Center to get an idea of how likely you are to experience a flood. It may also be helpful to speak with neighbors who have lived in the area for a long time about how often their property has had flood issues.

3. Complete a Household Inventory

Capture videos and photos of all of your valuable property and store them in a safe place. This will help you if you need to file an insurance claim.

4. Store Important Documents Off-Site

While a water remediation company may be able to save some valuable documents, water damage can easily destroy these fragile items. Store important documents, such as birth certificates, medical records, passports and insurance documents in a watertight safety deposit box.

5. Anchor and Elevate Utilities

Protect important utility equipment, such as propane tanks, electrical panels, wiring, sockets, heating systems and appliances by elevating and anchoring them. You may need to hire a professional contractor to assist you.

6. Make Your Basement Water Resistant

Install a sump pump and water alarm in your basement. Install a backup pump that is battery-operated to protect you when the power goes out.

7. Clean Your Gutters

Debris, such as leaves, sticks and bird nests, in your gutters and downspouts can cause water to pool around your foundation, instead of drain away from your house. Clean out your gutters regularly and before any expected weather event. Consider installing guards on your gutters to keep debris out.

8. Elevate or Relocate Furniture

If you know a flood is imminent, move furniture and other valuable items to the attic or the highest floor in your home. If your home is on a single level, you can elevate your furniture by placing cinder blocks or similar materials under the legs.

9. Monitor Weather Reports and Make a Plan

If a flood becomes bad enough, you may need to evacuate your home. Make a plan for how you will get your family members and pets to a safe place. Use a weather radio to monitor weather reports and sign up for emergency alerts.

There is no way to eliminate your flooding risk. However, these steps can help protect your property, your finances and your loved ones.

6 Indications You Need Professional Pipe Burst Cleanup

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

If you find these signs of Pipe Burst in your Park City, UT property, do not hesitate in contact us.

Many property owners avoid hiring restoration professionals unless the property has experienced a disaster such as major flooding or a major fire. Unfortunately, this move can lead to extensive, lasting damage and costly repairs. When pipe burst cleanup is necessary, these property owners may wonder whether it's best to call in a cleanup team or attempt to fix the problem on their own. How can you tell when it's okay to address property damage on your own and when it's necessary to call a restoration company?

Signs You Need a Professional Response for Pipe Burst Cleanup

It doesn't take long for water to cause a lot of damage, and you need to act quickly to prevent that from happening. You need to know when to contact professionals before a broken pipe or sound of running water happens. If your situation includes any of the following elements, you should act quickly to contact a water and sewer cleanup company:

1. Indications of Damage

You may not realize that there's trouble brewing for your Park City, UT property. There are several signs that damage is taking place even though there wasn't an immediate cause of trouble:

• Increase in utility bills
• Flaking or bubbling paint
• Water spots
• Musty, moldy smells
• Pools of water

2. Electrical Complications

If there is any chance that water has come into contact with wiring, outlets, or any other source of electricity, you should clear the area and contact professionals. When you consider the fact that touching an appliance with damp hands can cause a powerful electric shock, the risk of electrocution during flooding becomes more powerful.

3. Unseen Damage

When water spills from an overflowing toilet or gushes from a broken pipe, there is immediate and obvious damage on the surface. Unfortunately, moisture often seeps underneath the flooring, behind drywall, and into other spaces that are out of sight.

Without professional equipment, it is very hard to measure how widespread the unseen damage has become. If pockets of humidity are untreated, mold and deterioration will continue to spread and cause more expensive damage.

4. Exposure to Contaminants

Water from the sewer system is often "black" water, meaning that the water contains feces, chemicals, and other contaminants. Even water that was clean when it first burst from pipes may pick up chemicals as it rushes past insulation, rodent droppings, and household cleansers. This type of exposure can become dangerous during pipe burst cleanup and should be left to professionals with the right protective gear.

5. Need for Quick Resolution

Many property owners can't afford to shut down their property for drawn-out repairs and restoration. Whether you can't sacrifice manpower to clean up or you're concerned about shutting down your operations for days or weeks at a time, a professional response is best. Technicians have the time, supplies, and other resources to thoroughly and efficiently return your property to its original condition.

6. Equipment To Save

Water affects appliances, furnishings, and other belongings in a variety of ways. Professionals can help you decide what can be cleaned and salvaged after flooding. Recovery from flooding, pipe burst cleanup, and remediation from a slow, seeping leak doesn’t always require a professional response. However, when you want a full, satisfactory recovery, the best tactic is to bring in trained technicians

The Steps of the Fire Restoration Process

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Check these important Steps to Restore your Salt Lake City, UT house after a Fire.

A fire in your home in Salt Lake City, UT, can cause a lot of damage. Additionally, while the water used to put out the fire may save the structure, it can also saturate and ruin porous materials. The fire restoration process involves not only mitigating all this damage but also rebuilding your home so that it looks like it did before the fire. There are several steps in this process.

Follow these Steps to Restore your house after a Fire.

1. Assessment

The first thing that fire damage remediation specialists do when they arrive is to survey the damage to your home. This assessment reveals several factors that must be addressed in the mitigation process:

• Extent of the water and smoke damage
• Areas vulnerable to egress
• Equipment needed to resolve issues

Once they have this information, the technicians can formulate a plan for remediation and repair. They may also be able to give you a general estimate of the cost at this point.

2. Security

A fire typically causes windows to break and makes holes in the external structure of your building. Before work begins, the mitigation team boards up vulnerable spots to keep invaders such as animals, vandals and thieves out of your home.

3. Extraction

Standing water and damp materials can make any existing damage worse the longer they remain in your home. Therefore, technicians use industrial pumps to quickly extract water out of the way to minimize secondary issues.

4. Removal

The next step in the fire restoration process is the removal of any materials that are damaged beyond repair. Technicians tear out saturated drywall and insulation. They may also remove carpet, tile and ceiling materials. They also take furniture and other belongings out of the affected area so that they can be cleaned or discarded.

5. Cleaning

Damage cleaning is necessary for the removal of any dirt, soot or bacteria on the remaining surfaces. The space is likely contaminated and thus must go through a disinfection process. This gives the team a clean slate to work with before rebuilding begins.

6. Drying

Before adding new materials to the structure, the mitigation team wants to ensure that the space is dry. This prevents further damage such as mold growth. All surfaces are dried, and the humidity level in the space must be an acceptable level before they can proceed.

7. Restoration

The final stage is rebuilding the structure of your home and making it livable again. The restoration team adds new insulation and replaces the walls, ceilings and floors that were taken out. Then they make sure that the new parts match the remaining structure to provide a seamless view. When the whole project is finished, you shouldn't be able to tell where the damage happened.

A lot of damage can occur when fire ravages your home. The fire restoration process includes not only dealing with the effects of the actual fire but also removing water and drying out the area so that no further problems occur. Understanding everything that goes on during cleanup is important so that you have a realistic timeline for when your home is ready for your family again.

Business Claims: Making a Disaster Claim

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Park City, UT.

Fire Claim Process

While a blaze burning through your facility and your inventory is devastating enough, the fire damage can leave your property and your business boarded up for months. This is why it is essential to start the fire claim process immediately so that you can minimize the extent of the business interruption and get back to work quickly.

1. Call Your Insurer

While the first calls you make are to emergency services and family, the third call you should make after a fire is to your insurer. You want to make this call immediately after a fire to ensure that the claims process is initiated at the earliest possible moment. The longer you wait to make a claim, the longer it will take to get your business up and running.

2. Mitigate Further Damage and Loss

After you initiate the fire claim, you will want to get a fire restoration specialist from the Park City, UT, area on the scene to board up and tarp your facility, mitigating further damage and loss. If you already have a plan in place with a restoration expert, then call them and get the process started. Keep in mind that your insurer may require you to mitigate further loss, meaning that if you don’t, then your coverage may not kick in.

3. Keep Receipts

As you begin the cleanup, be sure to track all of your expenses by saving and tallying all receipts. When the adjuster arrives, they will want a full record of the damages incurred and the mitigation efforts made to reduce further property loss and damage.

4. Make a Record of Loss

Additionally, you should walk your property, photographing all damages to show your insurance adjuster. This record of loss will be used when evaluating your claim. You should also include any relevant receipts for the damaged property so your insurer can create an accurate valuation of the overall loss.

A fire claim may seem like a confusing process, but as with every bureaucratic process, there are appropriate steps to take. After a fire, just make sure to call your insurer, mitigate further damage, keep receipts and make a record of loss.

How To Repair a Leaking Faucet

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

A leaking faucet can lead to water and mold damage in your Salt Lake City, UT home.

When your home is quiet and you suddenly hear the quiet sound of a leaking faucet, it's often the prelude to another home maintenance chore. Don't postpone this repair, though; that little drip can add up to gallons of wasted water and an increased Salt Lake City, UT, water bill.

5 Steps of Leaking Faucet Repair

Here are the steps you can take to fix the leak before contacting a water and mold cleanup and repair crew to address any damage:

1. Turn Off the Water

Start by looking underneath the sink. There should be pipes running along the wall with a handle for shutting off the water. Turn the handle clockwise. Once you believe the water is off, turn the faucet on in the sink to be sure. Next, plug the sink to prevent losing any hardware down the drain.

2. Determine the Type of Faucet

There are four common types of faucets: compression, ball, cartridge, and ceramic disk. The compression faucet has separate handles for hot and cold water, so it is easy to identify. You may need to disassemble the faucet to determine the other types of mechanisms. The ball faucet has a ball bearing inside the faucet. The cartridge and ceramic disk faucets have, respectively, a cartridge and ceramic disk within the faucet.

3. Gather Your Tools

Before you start taking the faucet apart, gather the supplies you'll need. These include a bucket, some towels, and rags, an Allen wrench, an adjustable wrench, some needle nose pliers, slip joint pliers, and both flathead and Phillips screwdrivers. You will probably also need a faucet repair kit and some fresh O-ring seals. Make sure you have an area to lay the parts of the faucet, so they don't get lost.

4. Identify the Source of the Leak

Once you have taken the dripping faucet apart, look for a dried-out or worn rubber washer, a piece of broken hardware, or gaps between mechanisms. The specific steps for repairing or replacing parts vary by type of faucet. For example, repairs to a cartridge faucet often involve cutting out old O-rings and using a plumber's grease when installing new rings. In a compression faucet, you can generally pull the washer out; however, you do need to have the exact match for a good repair. You can usually find the specifics for your leaking faucet online or at your local hardware store.

5. Reassemble the Faucet

After you've replaced the damaged components, put the faucet back together. If you're not sure, refer to the instructions on the repair kit or use an online how-to video. Don't put your supplies away, however, until you have tested the faucet. There shouldn't be any drips from the faucet after a successfully fixed leak.

Contact Professionals To Prevent Mold

After completing your leaking faucet repair, it's important to contact mold and water damage professionals. It doesn't take long for a small amount of hidden moisture to develop into a thriving mold colony. You may not spot any mold right now, but when you can see or smell it, the problem has already become significant. Remember that prevention and quick action is the best way to limit the expense of mold remediation.

Use Containment Methods To Prevent Cross-Contamination During Mold Remediation

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Clean mold as soon as possible to get it under control and avoid further damage in your Salt Lake City, UT commercial building.

A safe mold cleanup job at your Salt Lake City, UT commercial building begins with installing the proper means of containment. This step is fundamental in ensuring that the mold spores from the affected area are not carried into unaffected regions of the building (i.e., cross-contamination). If you opt to tackle the job yourself, it's vital to know the proper containment measures to use for your specific issue. Your best bet is to hire reputable, certified mold remediation professionals to perform the work because they have the expertise and industrial-grade equipment to handle it appropriately and with the most safety. In addition to containment, the restoration team should use other equipment such as air scrubbers to help purify the air throughout the cleaning process.

4 Types of Containment Methods Used for Mold Remediation

Depending on what type of mold contamination you have at your office and its severity, there are various options for containment.

One or a combination of multiple types of containment may work best for your specific situation, such as:

Create a Negative Air Chamber

A negative air chamber utilizes ventilation systems to create airflow in the affected area without allowing the air to escape the room. The air and its tiny particulates are prevented from traveling through the ventilation system. Therefore, the spores are contained in the negative air chamber, narrowing the problem to a single location.

Perform a General Cleanup

Isolation isn't limited to just containing an area and its contents. Discarding unsalvageable damaged items is also a very effective mold cleanup method. Tear out water-damaged porous materials, such as drywall, carpeting, and baseboards. Then, carefully place the destroyed materials in thick trash bags and seal them securely. You should take these bags outside immediately.

Seal the Work Area With Plastic Sheeting

Thick plastic sheets can create a barrier between the contaminated area and the rest of the building. This isn't the most dependable way of preventing cross-contamination. Therefore, it's best to combine it with at least one other containment system. It's also essential to restrict traffic to the affected area to remediation workers only, if possible.

Install High-Efficiency Particulate Air Filters

Some air filters are made specifically for capturing mold spores and other tiny air particulates. These filters are very beneficial for isolating the problem by catching the spores before they have a chance to grow and reproduce. Filters, such as the HEPA variety, must be extremely fine so they can capture spores and other tiny particles from the air. It's best to look for products recommended by mold experts to ensure you get the best result while resolving your issue.

When you discover a mold contamination problem at your workplace, you need to immediately take action to get it under control. The issue will only get more severe with time, and it can get out of hand quicker than you may realize. Whether you are doing the mold cleanup job yourself or hiring experts to do it, it's helpful to know about the various containment procedures. Understanding the details of these kinds of problems before you are personally affected by them can help you if you ever experience such an issue.

6 Steps To Take After a Basement Flood

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Call us to help you to deal with your basement flooded and minimize the damage.

Heavy rains or overflowing streams and rivers can lead to a basement flood. If this happens to you, it is important to take steps to minimize the damage.

6 Things To Do When You Have a Flooded Basement

Mold can begin to grow in 24 to 48 hours, so quick action is needed to prevent additional damage. SERVPRO professionals are Faster to Any Size Disaster. A SERVPRO franchise in Salt Lake City, UT, can help you get your basement dried out before mold becomes a problem.

1. Remove the Water

If you only have a few inches of water in your basement, you can probably extract it with a wet vac. A more significant basement flood may require professional equipment. You may be able to rent submersible pumps, but if your flooding is the result of a large storm, chances are everyone else is trying to get ahold of this equipment also and it may be hard to come by. Consider contacting a water remediation company instead.

2. Dry Your Basement

Once you have the water out, you need to quickly dry your basement and its contents to avoid the potential for mold growth. Dehumidifiers and fans can help circulate and dry the air. Running your air conditioner may also help. Remove wet contents and discard or allow to dry outside.

3. Clean the Floor

Floodwater can leave dirt, silt and contaminants behind. Clean your basement floor with a solution of one cup of chlorine bleach mixed with one gallon of water. Wear protective eyewear and rubber gloves and make sure you open doors and windows for ventilation.

4. Freeze Documents

Your basement isn't the best place to store valuable documents because of the flood risk, but if you have papers that got wet, put them in the freezer. This may prevent mildew from growing and keep the documents from deteriorating until you can take them to a professional for restoration. Prevent future problems by moving valuable possessions out of your basement and putting anything you store in there in plastic bins on concrete blocks, instead of cardboard boxes on the floor.

5. Inspect and Clean Gutters, Drains, and Downspouts

Clear any twigs, leaves, or mud from your basement drains. Remove the drain screen and clean it. If the drain is clogged, use a plunger or plumber's snake to unclog it. Clean your gutters and downspouts and make sure they are pointed away from the foundation of your home.

6. Call Your Insurance Company

Most homeowners' policies have an exclusion for flood damage, but if you purchased a separate flood insurance policy, you may have insurance coverage. Talk to your insurance agent or call the claims center to file a claim. If the water in your basement is from a broken pipe or supply line, the water damage may be covered as a sudden and accidental discharge of water.

A basement flood can be a hassle to deal with. However, if you have a plan in place, you can systematically work through the problem until it is resolved while minimizing the amount of damage to your home.

Flood Safety Tips for Homeowners

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Taking some preventions will reduce the storm damage to your Salt Lake City, UT home.

Storm season in Salt Lake City, UT, brings several possible challenges to homeowners. One of the main concerns is flood safety. You can't control the weather, but you can take some precautions.

Tips To Protect Your House.

Elevate Items for Flood Safety

Electricity and water don't mix. One of the most sensible safety tips starts with identifying the flood line. Once you know how far water is likely to rise, you can more easily safeguard the electrical items both inside and outside your home:

• Sockets
• Wiring
• Circuit breakers
• Air conditioner units
• Generators
  

These and other electrical appliances should be placed a foot above the flood line if possible. It also doesn't hurt to elevate the things in your basement that are likely to become a hazard if they get wet. By keeping electrical items out of the way of potential floods, you can minimize a lot of damage.

Maintain Sewer To Prevent Blockages

Regular sewer maintenance is always important, but it's especially crucial during storm season. Excess flooding from a heavy downpour can overtax municipal drains, causing a backup. If your home already has sewer problems, this can lead to some unpleasant results in your bathroom or kitchen.

One way to protect your home from a flooded city sewer is to install valves to prevent backflow. Check or flap valves provide a one-way seal that keeps wastewater flowing outward. Manually operated gate valves provide even better protection. No matter what kind of valve you choose, you need one at every point where your plumbing connects to the sewer line.

Maximize Water Flow Away From Home

The best way to ensure flood safety is to keep the water from coming toward your house in the first place. Flood restoration specialists recommend that you upgrade your landscaping to slope away from your house so that pooling water doesn't encroach on it during a heavier storm. Keep drains, downspouts, and gutters clean so that water flows easily off your roof and away from your foundation.

Sometimes water rushes toward your house because it floods the street and simply has nowhere else to go. If this happens, contact your county department that is in charge of street maintenance to report the problem and inquire about what can be done to fix it. After all, if it affects your house, it probably is a nuisance to your neighbors as well.

Protect Your Foundation from Flooding

Floodwater will seep into cracks in your foundation any chance it gets. This is one of the reasons it's so important to inspect your foundation and repair any damage found as soon as possible. You can also install valves that direct the flow of water through designated paths through the building so that it doesn't rise and cause damage.

Placing barriers around entryways and the perimeter of your foundation is another way to flood-proof your home when a storm is on its way. Sandbags and inflatable barriers can be used to block extra water.

Knowing how to protect your home from flooding empowers you as a homeowner. Follow these flood safety tips to prevent as much damage as possible during a storm.

How Is Content Cleaning Done After a Fire?

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire in your Salt Lake City, UT home, some damaged items can be restored.

Whenever a fire occurs in a home there is damage from the heat and flames, smoke and soot, and the water or chemicals used to put out the fire. Some contents may be destroyed; however, some contents can be restored by using one or more cleaning methods, such as dry-cleaning.

5 Content Cleaning Steps for Fire Damaged Items

Restoring fire-damaged contents can be a difficult process. Smoke and soot stains and odors can linger for years if the correct cleaning techniques are not employed. For many homeowners, it is a good idea to contact a fire restoration company in Salt Lake City, UT, to clean fire-damaged contents. Most restoration companies employ a five-step cleaning process.

1. Take Precautions for Safety

Entering a fire-damaged structure can be dangerous. Restoration professionals take steps to make sure anyone entering the structure during cleanup is safe. To protect workers against smoke and soot particles in the air, respirators are worn. Gloves and other protective clothing protect against contact with soot on surfaces. Workers ensure that there is enough ventilation to keep working conditions safe.

2. Assess the Damage

Next, restoration professionals examine the damaged contents and decide which can be cleaned, which should be placed in content storage and which should be thrown out. They consider the value of the property when making this determination. It is important that this step be completed quickly because the longer soot remains on items, the more damage it can cause. Many items that have not suffered direct damage from fire or heat can be salvaged. Textiles, such as bedding and draperies, can usually be restored by dry-cleaning. Open food items are thrown away. Unopened food may be safe, but if there is any question it should be discarded. Plastic that is melted or discolored can be cleaned, but not restored.

3. Take an Inventory

If anything needs to be cleaned off-site, the restoration company will record which items are removed, where the items are stored, and what condition the items were in when taken out. For insurance purposes, an inventory is also made of any items that are discarded.

4. Perform Content Cleaning

The restoration company will then determine which cleaning method is best for each item and begin the cleaning process. Dry or wet cleaning is usually done for items with light residues. Spray and wipe methods are used for items that can not be wet cleaned without damage. Foam cleaning is often used for upholstery fabrics that may shrink or discolor if wet cleaned. Abrasive cleaning is only done on items that can withstand surface agitation. Immersion cleaning involves dipping items into the cleaning product.

5. Remove Odors

Finally, after cleaning is complete, the restoration company will remove smoke odors. Smoke odor removal may be done by ozone or hydroxyl deodorizing.

Whether you have lightly damaged items that need dry-cleaning or heavily damaged contents that require other techniques, a restoration company can salvage many items damaged by smoke or soot. However, it is important to act quickly before contents become damaged beyond repair.

Black Mold and Secondary Water Damage

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in your Park City, UT building leads to black mold and further damage.

An emergency pipe burst or trouble along the sewer line can quickly put the brakes on your daily operations. Your quick efforts to deal with the source of trouble, to remove the water, and to thoroughly dry your facility can prevent a lot of further problems. Unfortunately, it is possible for water to soak into carpeting or drywall and for humidity to build-up, allowing for the growth of black mold and other forms of mildew.

Dealing With Black Mold and Other Damage

The first step in tackling secondary damage from any type of water leak or flooding is understanding the problem. Learn as much as you can about the types of damage you can expect:

• Mold growth
• Rotting materials
• Peeling vinyl and paint
• Warped wood
• Compromised electrical wiring
• Corrosion and rust
  

As you come to fully understand the havoc caused by hidden pockets of moisture and high humidity, you're better prepared to aggressively target those problem areas.

Understanding the Causes of Further Damage

One of the main reasons properties suffer from black mold and other forms of damage are that flooding, leaks, or spills weren't properly mitigated the first time around. Certified cleanup and mitigation professionals are trained to prevent secondary harm, protect your building from lasting damage, and save you a lot of money in ongoing repair costs.

As a property owner, you may be a fastidious cleaner with a determination to properly repair and clean your facility. However, there are several areas where moisture builds without giving notice of the trouble brewing:

• Humidity buildup in the air conditioner
• Damaged appliances with hidden leaks
• Hidden moisture beneath or behind surfaces
  

It isn't uncommon for property owners to thoroughly clean and dry their buildings, only to discover later on that damage, such as mold growth

Taking Action Immediately

It doesn't take long for water to cause a lot of expensive damage. It is vital that you act immediately for the protection of your building. This means shutting off the main source of water, contacting cleanup crews right away, and getting all available hands involved in the cleanup. If it's possible to remove carpets from the floor, you may prevent an expensive loss of flooring.

Avoiding Secondary Problems

In addition to hiring professionals to help you recover from water damage, there are steps you can take to prevent further trouble. Once you've dealt with the immediate flow of water, open doors and windows to provide thorough ventilation. Remove water and water-logged furniture, equipment, and belongings as quickly as possible. If it's safe to use the electricity in your building, set up fans in the affected area. Be sure that there's a consistent flow of air through unaffected rooms so that humidity doesn't build up and cause new damage.

For the best results, choose a Park City, UT, professional company to deal with water damage before your experience any type of trouble. This proactive step ensures that you or your employees know who to call, so professionals arrive as soon as possible. The better you understand black mold and other secondary harm, the better able you'll be to take prompt action and avoid a lot of expensive damage.

Reasons To Make SERVPRO a Preferred Vendor

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

If you see water damage in your Park City, UT home, contact your insurance agency to get help.

Few things can cause as much damage to your clients' homes in as little time as excess water. They need a restoration team they can depend on to be there quickly to start the cleanup process as soon as possible. The water damage mitigation experts at SERVPRO in Park City, UT, are ready to provide fast, 24-hour response, seven days a week, and this is one of the many reasons that SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many insurance agencies.

Damage Timeline

Water doesn't waste any time destroying a structure. A lot can happen to a flooded home within the first 24 hours:

• Saturated walls start to bow and deteriorate
• Insulation is ruined
• Hardwood floors start to buckle
• Carpets are stained by furniture or other items that bleed onto them
• Mold begins to grow
• Wood furniture starts to swell and splinter
• Documents and keepsakes are drenched

With each hour, the damage gets worse. Your clients need a team known for its fast response time so that no matter how much water gushes into their homes, the destruction is kept to a minimum.

Quick Attention

With a 24-hour call center ready to mobilize the local team any time of the day or night, SERVPRO outshines the competition. Technicians are alerted and respond to the first notice within an hour of the call. Within four hours, the team is on-site at your client's home, assessing the problem and detailing what needs to be done to fix it. The lead specialist is ready to confer with your clients to outline what the cleanup process is going to look like and give them an estimate of the cost within eight hours of the initial contact.

Thorough Restoration

Because SERVPRO is always open, the technicians can get right to work after the assessment is complete. They start by extracting all the excess water with industrial pumps and other drying techniques. Then they tear out damp insulation, waterlogged drywall, and ruined carpets that can't be salvaged.

Once the parts of your clients' home that the flood destroyed are removed, the specialists repair what's left. If the water was contaminated, they disinfect the affected area to remove any bacteria or other microbes present. Then they make sure that every part of the remaining structure is dry to prevent secondary damage such as mold or mildew.

The final step is restoration. Your clients are unlikely to be satisfied unless the house looks the same way it did before the water damage occurred. The team rebuilds the structure and matches the walls, ceiling, and flooring with the elements that remain for a seamless finish. When you partner with SERVPRO, you can rest assured that your clients are getting the best and most thorough service on the market.

With 24-hour service and a commitment to quick response times, it is no wonder that many insurance providers choose SERVPRO as a preferred vendor for their clients. A team of certified, experienced specialists can be on-site within hours of receiving the first call, and they do not stop until your client's home is completely restored.

How Do I Make a Water Damage Insurance Claim?

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Filing an insurance claim form correctly is essential to get your Park City, UT home restored faster.

Water damage is one of the most common reasons homeowners file an insurance claim. To get your claim processed quickly, it is helpful to familiarize yourself with the claims process before you need to make a claim.

How To File a Homeowner's Claim

Filing a homeowner's claim is a multi-step process. Proceeding through the steps in order will help you make sure you don't forget to do anything.

1. Read Your Policy

Your policy should explain what your responsibilities are and what types of damage are covered by your policy. This is particularly important for water damage claims, because most homeowner's policies cover water damage from sudden and accidental discharges, such as a pipe burst, but exclude damage from a flood.

2. Mitigate Your Damage

Most insurance policies require homeowners to mitigate their damages. This means that if there are reasonable steps you can take to prevent additional damage from occurring while you are waiting to get the initial damage repaired, you are expected to take those steps. An example is shutting off the water to your home when you have a leaking pipe. If you have to spend any money to make temporary repairs, save your receipts. Your insurance policy may cover these costs.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance agent or the claims office of your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the process of filing your insurance claim. Ask any questions you have about your coverage and deductible. Find out how long it will be before repairs can begin. Ask if you need to get an estimate done or if the insurance company will be sending someone out. Drying your property out promptly is important, so you may want to inquire about hiring a water remediation company in Park City, UT, to begin that process.

4. Complete Claim Forms and Other Paperwork

Your insurance company may mail your forms or allow you to complete them online. It may also ask you to submit other documentation. Return the requested materials as soon as possible. The longer you take to furnish the requested documentation, the longer it will take to process your claim.

5. Prepare for the Insurance Adjuster

In most cases, your insurance company will send an insurance adjuster to inspect your home and estimate the amount of damage. Take photographs of your damaged property and make an inventory of everything that was damaged. Gather together any receipts or other documentation that proves the value of your damaged property.

6. Keep Your Receipts for Relocation Expenses

If your home is uninhabitable because of the damage, keep your receipts for the cost of hotel rooms or rent for the period of time you are unable to live in your home. You may also be reimbursed for other additional living expenses, so keep the receipts for anything you had to spend money on because you were unable to occupy your home.

Filing an insurance claim for water damage can sometimes be confusing, but your insurance professional should be able to answer any questions that you have. Promptly and correctly filing your claim is critical for getting your home restored as quickly as possible.

Is Fungus Cleanup Covered by Your Commercial Insurance?

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

The mold cleanup will not be covered by the insurance if it is a negligence case in your Salt Lake City, UT commercial property.

It doesn't take much time for a water disaster to transform your commercial property from normal daily functioning to impossible to operate. Unfortunately, leaky pipes, storm damage, and backed-up toilets cause much more than an immediate inconvenience. High levels of humidity or a small puddle of water that soaks, unnoticed, into the carpeting can create the perfect environment for mold growth. The good news is that your commercial insurance provides coverage under most circumstances. The bad news is that many policies have a significant exclusion for losses or damage caused by fungus.

Understanding the Fungus Exclusion in Your Commercial Insurance Policy

Many commercial insurance policies have exclusions related to the pollution, fungi, and bacteria present in Category 3 water. If this exclusion is present in your insurance policy, you may have a coverage gap.

What Is Fungus?

Fungus and fungi are broad terms used in the insurance industry to describe many contaminants:

• Mold
• Mildew
• Mushrooms
• Spores
• Toxins
• Yeasts
• Any by-products left by any type of fungus

The fungus exclusion means that damage such as dry rot, bad smells caused by the presence of fungi, and the spread of fungus throughout your Salt Lake City, UT, property doesn't fall under your standard commercial property insurance coverage.

Why Isn't Fungus Covered?

Mold damage is generally covered if it happens because of "a common peril." These situations may include a pipe break or some overflow from your malfunctioning air conditioner, for example. This type of damage is covered because it was caused by the sudden presence of water.

Damage is not covered when the insurance company can show that negligence or flooding was the culprit. If, for example, a fixture under a bathroom sink has been seeping water for several years, the resulting mold growth won't be covered. If certain rooms on your property are consistently humid and you haven't used a dehumidifier, your policy may not cover the resulting damage. These are examples of negligence.

If heavy storms lead to flooding and water from that storm travels across the ground before moving through your property, causing mold growth, the damage probably won't be covered unless you have a specific flood or mold insurance policy.

Is There a Solution?

Some insurance providers offer Limited Fungus Coverage. This policy has many limitations. There is often an amount limit tied to one occurrence in your policy year. It may cover the removal and replacement of moldy building materials, such as drywall and insulation. The coverage may pay for testing to ensure that there's no remaining trace of contamination. Additionally, the policy only kicks in if you can show that you have taken all reasonable precautions to protect your Salt Lake City, UT, property from damage.

Are You Worried About Your Coverage?

If you're worried about damage from mold growth on your property, your commercial insurance may cover the cost of hiring cleanup and repair professionals. However, there are certain exclusions that may complicate the claim. Make sure you understand the details of your coverage before damage happens, so you can avoid frustrating delays and limited coverage when any type of water disaster affects your building.

How To Prepare a Home Escape Plan?

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

An escape plan can save your family's life and yours from a house fire in Salt Lake City, UT.

No one wants to think a house fire can happen to them, but the reality is that over 350,000 house fires occur in the United States every year. Having a fire escape plan in place can help ensure that your family stays safe if this happens to you.

Make Sure Everyone Is Included in Your Plan

Include all members of your household in your emergency escape plan. Pay particular attention to household members who may have special needs:

• Young children
• Elderly family members
• People with disabilities
• Guests
• Pets

Children and family members with a hearing impairment may not wake when a fire alarm goes off. Assign an adult family member to alert them. If you have family members with mobility issues or disabilities that may impair their ability to execute an escape plan, assign someone to assist them. Keep pet essentials, such as leashes or cat carriers, stored along your escape route. Assign a family member to look for your pet and attempt to evacuate it. If you can not get your pet out, leave the door open and call for it. Make sure your guests are familiar with your escape plan.

Plan Two Escape Routes

Smoke or flames may make your primary escape route impassable, so your fire escape plan should include two ways out of every room. The primary exit from most rooms is the door. The most common secondary exit is a window. Make sure both exits open easily and that any security devices have an emergency release.

Pick a Meeting Spot

Decide on a location outside your home where your family members will gather so that you can make sure everyone made it out. The location should be in front of the house so that emergency responders can see you. Common choices include a neighbor's house, mailbox, or street sign. Instruct your family members that no one is to go back into the house once they have escaped.

Make Sure Your Smoke Alarms Work

Periodically test your smoke alarms to make sure they work. You should install a smoke alarm in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping room, and on every level of your home.

Stress Quick Response Times

Make sure your family knows that if the fire alarm goes off they must immediately exit the house. Practice your plan at least once every year to make sure everyone can execute it quickly and correctly.

Create a Backup Plan

If one or more family members can not exit through either of the planned escape routes, instruct them to close all doors between themselves and the fire. They should also put a towel under the door and then go to an exterior facing window and call the fire department to report their location.

Plan for After the Fire

Once everyone is safe, have a plan for beginning the restoration process. Call your insurance company to file a claim. You may need a fire restoration company in Salt Lake City, UT, to assist with cleanup.

The most important thing to do if a fire happens is make sure everyone gets out safely. Having a fire escape plan in place will increase your chances of avoiding injury or loss of life.

Reasons To Steer Clear of Flooded Roads

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

Flood roads in Park City, UT, are dangerous for your vehicle.

Storm season in Park City, UT, often results in flooded roadways. While these conditions are inconvenient and can delay your schedule, that's no excuse to try to drive through a flooded street. It's better to stay at home and miss a meeting than to experience some of the consequences of choosing to leave before the storm has passed.

Extensive Vehicle Damage

Your vehicle was not made to drive through deep water. If you drive on flooded roads, your car may never be the same afterward. There are several common problems that occur when a vehicle is flooded:

• Hydro-locked engine
• Short-circuited electronics
• Contaminated fluids
• Rusted components

Flood damage can cost you a lot in repairs or total your car altogether. While it's possible that a great mechanic can fix what is wrong with the engine and certified water restoration experts can get the funky smell out of your upholstery, it makes more sense to just avoid the problem in the first place by staying off the road or choosing a safer route.

Obscured Vision

When a roadway is blocked by flooding, the water is often murky. This means you can't see what's happening beneath the surface of the puddle. It's difficult to gauge just how deep the standing water on a flooded street is, even if you try to use the curb or other signposts as clues. Floodwater can quickly cause damage to the road, resulting in cracks or sinkholes that make the stream flowing across it deeper than it appears.

Another potential risk hidden from sight is all the debris that washes into the road during a storm. It's unlikely that the only thing blocking your path is water. Tree limbs, rocks, and other obstructions are probably in the flooded road as well, making navigation even more treacherous. Rather than taking a chance on a street with standing water, tune in to travel tips on the radio to find a better path to your destination.

Loss of Control

The biggest hazard of driving on flooded roads is the possibility of losing control of your vehicle. If the engine seizes up and stalls, you may not even be able to steer it to the side of the road before it stops working completely. You then have to wait for someone to tow your vehicle out of harm's way, hoping that no one else loses control and crashes into it in the meantime.

If the floodwater is both deep and fast, it can carry large objects, such as your vehicle, with it. You may not be able to get your door open to escape, which leaves you trapped in a moving car that you can't steer, going whichever direction the flood takes you. No one wants to be in a position with such an uncertain outcome.

There's never a good reason to drive through a flooded street. If you must get on the road, choose a route with adequate drainage or higher elevation so that you can safely get where you need to go. If no such route exists, it's better to wait out the storm than face the peril of the flood.

Confront the Damage From a Flooded Toilet

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

The damage caused for a flooded toilet in your business in Salt Lake City, UT, must require professional help.

The sewer damage that results when a flooded toilet overflows throughout your Salt Lake City, UT, a business can quickly add up to a lot of money. The good news is that your commercial property insurance policy probably covers a lot of the damage. With this in mind, it's important that you know which steps you can take yourself and which work should be left to professionals.

Take These Steps Immediately

As soon as you notice the flooded toilet, you need to complete a few vital steps:

Turn off the water. You can do this by lifting the float inside the toilet tank, turn off the valve at the back of the toilet, or shut off the water at the building's water main.

Mop up as much water as possible. It doesn't take long for water to cause expensive damage to your building.

Clean up organic matter. This includes dirt and other substances that may have been in the toilet. You must be aware of the dangers of black water, at this point. The bacteria from waste in the water can have serious side effects, especially during extended contact.

Contact sewer damage cleanup and remediation professionals. In addition to handling any black water and other dangerous contaminants, these experts may point out potential areas of mold growth and help you avoid future water damage.

If the flooding is confined to a small area, you may clear the clog and clean up the mess on your own. However, if there's any possibility that you're dealing with anything other than clean water, you're better off turning the job over to professionals. Depending on how widespread the damage extends, you may need to take additional steps, such as contacting the sewage company.

Respond to Further Damage

If water from the toilet has traveled from one floor of the building to another, it may be necessary for cleanup crews to tackle some demolition and reconstruction. For example, flooring and ceiling materials may need to be removed, disposed of appropriately, and then replaced. Wet materials, including drywall and insulation, may need to be thoroughly dried out, disinfected, or replaced. Your insurance company may require you to work with damage cleanup and remediation professionals.

Prevent Mold Growth and Damage

Mold is a common concern after any type of water damage. High levels of moisture can cause unseen pockets of humidity that provide an ideal breeding ground for mold spores. Unfortunately, within just a couple of days, there may be enough mold growth to encourage the spread of multiple colonies. If you don't know what to look for, this trouble could continue unseen until serious damage has been done. Cleanup technicians may test for mold and take steps to clean up and prevent spread.

Avoid More Unpleasantness

Cleaning up after an overflowing toilet isn't one of the things that most business professionals are excited about. However, when sewer damage happens, these simple steps can help keep further damage under control. Your quick response and the work of professionals is the best way to limit further harm and get your business back underway.

How to Make a Home Fire Escape Plan

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

A house on fire is dangerous and a traumatic experience.

No one in Salt Lake City, UT, wants to experience the devastation of a house fire, but in order to keep your family safe, you need to put a plan in place should once occur. Experts recommend working with your family to create a fire escape plan and practicing it at least twice a year so that everyone knows what to do.

Here are some ideas for what your plan should include.

1. How to Get of the Rooms.

Every household member should know at least two ways to escape each room in the home. If the fire prevents someone from leaving through the door, is there a window to crawl out of? Teach children how to open windows.

2. How and Where to Find Fire Escape Ladders.

If you have a two-story home, ladders can help people escape through top-floor windows. These are best used by adults and older children. Make sure everyone knows how to use them.

3. Where to Meet.

As part of your emergency escape plan, pick a meeting spot a safe distance away from the home. Everyone should know where it is. It is very important that children understand that everyone will meet at this safe meeting place and that they don’t need to try to rescue anyone on their way out of the home.

After your fire escape plan is established, your family should practice putting it into place. Practice until it can be completed in less than two minutes. In addition, your household can practice low crawling and waking up to a smoke alarm. Teach everyone how to dial 9-1-1 and stop, drop and roll.

The thought of experiencing a house fire is a scary one, but it’s better to come up with a fire escape plan in case of an emergency than it is to ignore the issue. Having a plan in place will help keep you and your loved ones safe.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

Out with the Old: Changing your Pipes

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

Broken pipe causing water loss in a Park City, UT home

From the 1970s to the 1990s, a specific sort of pipe was used in a lot of commercial plumbing. Polybutylene was thought to be the pipe of the future because it was inexpensive to make and easy to install. After a few years, however, those buildings started having plumbing problems. These pipes are not used in Park City, UT, today because they inevitably wear out, and they cause significant water damage when they do.

Here are some reasons these pipes must be replaced if they are part of your building's plumbing.

1. Exposure to treated water makes it brittle. One of the reasons this particular piping does not work for plumbing is that the water itself destroys the pipe. The chlorine and antibacterial chemicals used to make drinking water safe make the polybutylene pipes brittle and prone to breakage. Over time, they cannot be fixed. They must be replaced.

2. Disintegrating parts get stuck in the water. Another startling effect of this type of piping is that as it disintegrates, it flakes off and leaches chemicals into the water supply. New plumbing made from safer materials is a necessary upgrade.

3. It costs more to maintain than to replace. Replacing these pipes has a comparable cost to replace the carpet in your house. The piping change isn't inexpensive, but neither are all the costs from having to hire water remediation experts to clean up every time you have water damage.

4. It drives down the resale value of your building. Because this piping causes so many problems, it needs to be fixed before you put your property on the market. Most realtors won't even show a commercial property that still has old pipes in it. The pipes must be replaced before the building is likely to sell.

If your commercial building seems to have more water damage problems than it usually does, polybutylene pipes may be the culprit. Have the pipes replaced to avoid additional repair expenses.

3 Steps To Take After Water Damage

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

A flood in your Salt Lake City, UT, home it's a severe problem. It must be treated as soon as possible.

If you have water damage in your home from an overflowing toilet, leaking pipe, or a flood, you may be wondering what steps you should take. These three tips will get you started.

1. Contact Your Insurance Company

Most homeowners' policies cover damage for sudden and accidental discharge of water, such as damage caused by broken pipes. However, flood damage is often excluded, unless covered by a separate flood policy. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to get the claims process started. Take photographs of the damage. Keep any receipts for temporary repairs made before the claim settlement.

2. Dry Out Your Home

If it is safe to enter your home, begin water damage restoration within 24 to 48 hours. Waiting longer than this can lead to future problems, such as mold growth. Wear protective gear and have the electricity and gas shut off to your home. Open windows and doors to increase air circulation. Remove wet items, such as carpet and upholstered furniture. Other materials, such as drywall, insulation, and flooring may also need to be removed. If you have extensive damage, consider contacting a restoration service in Salt Lake City, UT, for assistance.

3. Check for Mold

The faster you can perform water cleanup and dry out your property, the less chance there is of mold, but it can be difficult to completely avoid the problem. If you notice musty odors, brown, green, or black stains, or other signs of mold, you may need to have mold remediation done to remove the problem before it gets worse. Mold tends to grow in places with high humidity. Keep humidity levels down by using fans, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers.

A small area of water damage may be cleaned up with a mop and bucket. However, more extensive damage may require days or weeks to fully restore. The faster you begin the process, the better your chance of avoiding additional damage will be.

Individual Assistance Grants From FEMA

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Protecting your home in advance will prevent serious and expensive storm damage in the future.

After a major natural disaster affects your Salt Lake City, Utah, home, FEMA, or the Federal Emergency Management Agency, may be one of the first sources of help. You can seek this assistance as an individual, and one of your first steps should be registering with the agency as soon as possible after damage to your home. You'll need to have specific information and paperwork available:

• Address of your damaged property
• Current contact information
• Insurance information
• Social security number
• Banking information
• Annual household income

What To Expect From Grants

Whether your property has been affected by wildfires or flooding, the costs of recovery, including the work completed by property repair and reconstruction professionals, can be overwhelming. This assistance is particularly helpful for people without insurance or with gaps in their insurance. The grants may cover:

• Home repairs
• Temporary shelter
• Medical and dental expenses
• Childcare costs
• Funeral expenses
• Replacement of personal property

After registering, a FEMA representative will call to schedule an inspection before approving the assistance. It's important to note that scam artists may show up claiming to be official inspectors, so ask for an identification card. Do not provide your credit card or any bank account information because there isn't a charge for these inspections.

Information From Insurance Providers

If you haven't yet experienced a major disaster, it isn't too soon to learn as much as possible about surviving and recovering. Ask your insurance provider about the steps you can take to protect your home against damage from an earthquake, flood, wildfire, or landslide. The more you do beforehand to prevent damage, the better off you'll be.

An Offer of Help

It isn't always possible to emerge unscathed, however, so research the ways that the FEMA Individual Assistance Program could help you. After all, the experience of a natural disaster is scary enough without knowing where you'll be sleeping at night; it's comforting to have many sources of assistance available.

4 Advantages of an Electronic Claims Service

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Utilizing an Electronic Claims Service has its benefits.

When your home is hit by a disaster in Salt Lake City, UT, immediate action is necessary to minimize loss. First, you must call to get your insurance agent to inspect the damage so that you can file an insurance claim. Then, restoration can finally get underway to minimize loss. These days, with the help of SERVPRO electronic claims service, the process is becoming increasingly faster and more efficient, allowing for numerous benefits.

Benefits of an Electronic Claims Service

1. All the Data Is Saved in One Secure Location

Every stage of the claims process is documented and placed on the electronic claims service site. These days, there's very minimal, if any, sorting through piles of paperwork and looking on multiple company sites. Electronic claims services enable professionals to obtain all your damage information from one website. They can also access it from any computer or mobile device, whether in the office or the field.

2. The Information Is Updated and Accessed in Real-Time

As soon as a professional uploads information to the database, it's available for others to access. This enables a smoother insurance claim and restoration process with less downtime.

3. The Agents, Adjusters and Service Providers Have Access

From insurance agents and adjusters to damage restoration specialists, everyone can access your information about the entire ongoing process at all times. The service also provides professionals access to nationwide collected data from various types of claims to make sure you receive fair costs and compensation.

4. Communication Is Made Easier for Everyone

Property owners, insurance agents, adjusters and service providers have an easy line of communication throughout the entire process. Everyone involved can simply go to the account and interact with one another.

An electronic claims service makes filing an insurance claim a simple, efficient procedure from start to finish. Whatever type of disaster your home endures, this technology is invaluable. The damage to homes is mitigated and restored faster than ever.

Mold and Mildew: Do the Differences Matter?

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Salt Lake City, UT.

It is important to understand the difference between mold and mildew before addressing a mold damage problem in your Salt Lake City, UT, home:

• Mildew is often used as a generic term that refers to a variety of molds and fungi, but mildew has distinct characteristics of its own.
  
• Mold refers to all microscopic fungi with a multicellular filament form.
  
• Mold is one type of fungus. Other forms of fungi include yeasts and mushrooms.
  
  

While there are beneficial applications of mold, you certainly don't want to find any growing in your shower, on your walls, or anywhere else in your home.

Mold and Mildew

Similar Beginnings, Different Problems

Mold and mildew growth is encouraged by the presence of moisture, oxygen, and a food source. The two problems have distinct and visible differences. Mold may originally look like dirt. It comes in a variety of dark shades, including green, red, and black. Mold damage often has a fuzzy appearance. Mildew, however, has a light white or gray appearance initially, turning brown as it grows. It has a flat profile, appears powdery, and shows up shaped like small dots. Mold growth tends to be more problematic than mildew because mildew causes surface damage, but mold eats into wood, paper, carpeting, and other surfaces.

Prevention Techniques

Fortunately, it is pretty easy to prevent the growth of mold or mildew. Look for problem areas in your home. If you have rooms or corners that don't get a lot of sunlight, that retain moisture, and that have limited ventilation, there's a potential for damage. The presence of dirt and other debris can increase the risk of mold or mildew, so address this issue as well.

Effective Solutions

It's easy to confuse mold and mildew, but when you have a mold damage problem, it's important to know what you're dealing with to provide an appropriate solution. The best option is to contact mold and mildew cleanup and remediation professionals. These experts have the training, tools, and experience to handle the problem effectively.

How Electronic Records Can Help Insurance Companies

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Electronic records can help insurance companies.

Processing an insurance claim may have many steps, but it doesn't have to be a hassle. When you choose certified remediation specialists who use electronic records to store information about your cases as your preferred vendors, processing a claim can become quite simple. Everything you need to know for your claims is right there. Electronic records make it easier to find the information you need and access them efficiently.

Electronic Records Can Help Insurance Companies 

Easy To Search

When you work with a company such as SERVPRO, you have access to all the information you need at any time of the day. The Claims Information Center makes it easy to search locally, regionally or nationwide for:

• Type of claim
• Job cost
• Cause of loss
• Response times

You can also find the information you need for your client's insurance claim, including an itemized list of losses and a detailed account of the entire remediation process from assessment to restoration. You can log on at any time to see exactly what the process looks like for your client's home.

Easy To Share

Another benefit of electronic records is that they are easy to share. Gone are the days when clients must wait for paper documents to be filed and mailed to the insurance agent. The report can just be sent via email. This is especially helpful if more information is needed. Rather than putting the payment on hold until all the necessary documents make it through the mail, you can retrieve information instantly. It cuts down on the time it takes to process claims, which in turn helps everyone get paid more quickly.

Processing an insurance claim is much easier with SERVPRO's CIC. You get all the information about the repairs that your clients in Park City, UT, need just by logging in and finding the files. Electronic records help agents and insurance companies by making the claims process more manageable.

Important Smoke Alarm Replacement Tips

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your smoke alarm up to date in your Junction, UT home.

With all the time you spend in your home in Junction, UT, you want to know that you will be prepared and promptly alerted if a fire occurs. With each smoke alarm in your home replaced as necessary, you can feel confident that they will alert you in case of a fire.

1. Frequently Replace Batteries

Thanks to technological advances, alarms do not need to be replaced as frequently as they did in the past. However, just because the alarms themselves need to be replaced only every 10 years or so, this does not mean you can go years without replacing their batteries. A smoke detector should have its batteries replaced once a year.

2. Test Your Alarm

Even when you replace the batteries of your smoke alarm as needed, dysfunctions can still occur. Checking every alarm in your home once a month can help ensure that each alarm is functioning as it should. With most alarms, you can do this by pressing a button labeled ‘test.’ When testing your alarm, be prepared for the loud, consistent noise it will emit. If you don’t hear this response, it may be an indicator that your batteries need to be replaced.

3. Listen for Beeping

A smoke detector or alarm that needs new batteries will often spontaneously make a short beeping or chirping noise. Even if you have replaced your batteries within the year, the series of chirps may indicate that another change is required. If the alarm continues beeping after the batteries have been replaced, it might be time for a new alarm.

Keeping every smoke alarm in your home up-to-date is an important way to protect your home, yourself, and your loved ones. Although these measurements can alert you of a fire, destruction is not always preventable. If your home suffers from a fire, you may want to contact experts in fire damage restoration.

Common Causes and Remedies for Sewer Odor

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Roof damage from storm in Sugar House, UT home.

Having a sewer smell in your commercial building is unpleasant. While the fumes may not be harmful, they can certainly be an unwelcome distraction. There are several reasons you may be smelling sewer gas in your building in Sugar House, UT, and most of them have pretty simple remedies.

Causes of the Odor.

Smelling sewer odor does not usually mean that you have raw sewage wreaking havoc somewhere in your building. The more likely cause is the failure of one of several apparatuses that function to direct the gas outside. There are three main causes of indoor sewer smell:

• Dry traps with no wastewater to prevent gases from coming back through the plumbing.
• Blocked vents with a clog or backup that is preventing the gas from escaping through the normal channels.
• Damaged drain lines that release sewage under the property instead of carrying it away.

To get rid of the smell, you must first locate the problem. It may have an easy fix that you can do yourself, but it's important to call a plumber or sewer remediation services if you need to do so.

Solutions for the Odor

The first thing you should try to do is pour clean water down the drain from whence the smell comes. Dry traps from underutilized drains are the most common cause of sewer odors in buildings and making sure that you use the drain frequently can help prevent the problem or help resolve it once it occurs. If that doesn't work, your drain may need to be cleaned. Disinfecting the drain takes care of any bacteria that may be causing the smell. If none of your efforts get rid of the smell, however, it is time to call in the professionals to assess a potentially larger problem.

Sewer smell can happen any time there is a backup or some other type of plumbing problem. If you can't get rid of the problem on your own, calling a plumber can help you get your building smelling fresh and clean again.

Rain Isn’t the Only Thing To Worry About During a Storm

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

A winter storm can cause bursting pipes.

When you think about your business flooding, your mind might automatically go to rain and storm surge. This is not always the case. During winter storms, you have to worry about things like a burst pipe due to freezing conditions. Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to prevent this type of flooding from happening.

4 Things To Do To Prevent Flooding

Drain What You Can

Drain water from where it builds up.

• Pools
  
• Pipes
  
• Sprinkler supply lines
  
• Toilet tanks
  

No matter where your business is, these things should be drained before a bad storm, if only to prevent standing water from becoming a problem.

Close Valves

Depending on the type of pipe, you may want to close off any valves before you drain them. A burst pipe is easily prevented by making sure that it doesn't have water in it. No water usually equals no freezing or bursting during a storm.

Prevent Freezing

Aside from insulation, there are a few ways you can prevent a frozen pipe. One way is to make sure warm air is circulating around your plumbing. You can leave sink cabinets open or prop your office bathroom door open if your heat is on in the building.
You can also leave your faucets dripping. Moving water is less likely to freeze. You can also keep your climate control system set higher than you normally would at night. Although this might increase your heating bill, it is a lot less expensive than having to replace pipes and utilize a flood remediation company in Salt Lake City, UT.

Insulate Pipes

If you cannot completely drain pipes or as an added measure of protection, make sure your pipes are insulated. You can purchase sleeves and other forms of insulation to make sure that your pipes are protected. In the case of pipes that you cannot insulate, you can wrap them when winter storms are imminent.

No matter what type of storm it is, a burst pipe can lead to big problems for your business. You can prevent this from happening.

Prevent Mold and Other Secondary Damage

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Untreatted water damage can lead to black mold.

Molds exist naturally and over thousands of years have developed the ability to survive in harsh conditions. However, some circumstances provide an open invitation for black mold and other varieties to move in:

• High humidity levels
  
• Organic materials
  
• A day or two
  

When flooding, pipe leaks, or other water damage has affected your Salt Lake City, UT, commercial property mold growth is a concern as part of the possible secondary damage.

A Second Wave of Trouble

It's not surprising that water causes a significant amount of property damage, and property owners generally move quickly to prevent lasting destruction. Secondary damage, on the other hand, sometimes goes unnoticed until the problem has grown to expensive proportions. When water is allowed to sit for days or even hours, new damage occurs:

• Black mold growth
  
• Corrosion
  
• Electrical damage
  
• Wood rot
  

The damage caused directly by flooding or a burst pipe is primary damage, and the damage that develops as the water sits is secondary.

Your Best Course of Preventative Action

It is possible to prevent or at least limit secondary water damage. After addressing the initial event, it's time to take preventative steps:

• Work quickly to combat high humidity caused by evaporating water. The added moisture in the air warps and weakens building materials, such as wood and drywall. Remove water, plug in fans, and increase ventilation as much as possible.
  
• Make sure that all surfaces are completely dry. Mold often lurks behind the walls, in the vents, and under the carpets. Ensure the safety of your commercial property by hiring cleanup and restoration professionals with the experience and resources to locate and address problem areas.
  
• Chemical biocides are usually required to ensure that existing mold is treated successfully. It is also necessary to prevent future colony growth. Some filtration devices and sanitization techniques remove spores before they settle on vulnerable surfaces.
  

Don't give black mold time to cause secondary damage. Act quickly when water affects your property to completely dry and clean all surfaces to protect your property's long-term survival.

4 Tips About Smoke Detectors

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors are very important to keep you and your family safe.

How often do you think about your smoke alarms, and do you have multiple alarms? A fire alarm is an essential piece of safety equipment, but many American households do not have an adequate number of devices in working order. If you are not aware of the current state of your alarms or are unsure of the number you should have for your home, contact the fire department or a fire restoration service in Salt Lake City, UT. However, to make the process easier, you can follow the four tips below.

4 Things to Know About Smoke Detectors

1. Number of Smoke Detectors Needed

Preventing extensive smoke damage is about early disaster intervention, meaning immediate response to a house fire. The best way to ensure the fastest response time is to have the appropriate number of smoke alarms for your home. The basic rule is to have at least one smoke alarm in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every floor of the home. For a two-story, three-bedroom home, that would mean a minimum of three alarms.

2. Average Lifespan of Detectors

A fire alarm does not have the same lifespan as your roof or some appliances. Most alarms have a maximum usable lifespan of between eight and 10 years. It is a good idea to put a date on detectors or set notifications on your phone or calendars as reminders.

3. Types of Detectors

Fire damage can occur during fast-moving fires or slow, smoldering fires. There are different devices to alert you to which type of fire you are dealing with. An ionization alarm reacts quickly to flaming or fast-moving blazes. A photoelectric alarm is quicker to sense smoldering or smoky fires. You should have each type in your home or look for combination detectors.

4. Emergency Escape Plan

Did you know you likely only have about three to four minutes to escape a house fire? Because of changes in furniture and construction, house fires can spread more quickly than ever before. Make sure you have a practiced fire escape plan.

A fire alarm can save your life. Make sure you have enough for your home to protect your family.

Tips for Cleaning Up After a Sewage Flood

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

Ceiling damage from water loss in Salt Lake City, UT home.

There are some possible disasters you can prepare your Salt Lake City, UT, home for, but one that might catch you completely unprepared is a sewer flood. These floods can happen when weather conditions back up your neighborhood’s sewer line and then back up out of your toilet. You will likely need the assistance of a professional sewer cleanup crew to rectify this issue, but there are a few actions you can take to ensure your family and the remainder of your home stays safe.

3 Tips to Clean Up After a Sewage Flood.

1. Do Not Touch the Flood Water

After a sewer backup, the water that flows from your toilet is likely contaminated and is what professionals call “black water.” It may contain human and animal feces, sewer chemicals and other biohazards. Seal off the nearest door and avoid touching any of the water with your bare hands. If you must block water with towels or other absorbent material, wear thick rubber gloves and a breathing mask to protect yourself.

2. Clear the Outdoor Area

Once the sewer cleanup crew arrives, they may bring one or more large tanker trucks and other vehicles that transport sump and trash pumps that will help them drain away the contaminated water. Try to give them plenty of room by moving your cars and other objects that might block their way. Prevent children and pets from roaming too close to the vehicles once they arrive.

3. Ask About Deodorizing Services

A flooded toilet can cause unpleasant sewer smells to linger, even after the water is gone. However, a professional cleanup crew might have several options for deodorizing your home. This service goes a step beyond cleaning, as the processes these professionals use are unique and clean the air as well as your home’s floor and walls to ensure unwanted odors do not return later.

When sewers malfunction and cause a flood in your Salt Lake City, UT, home, it can be distressing. However, a professional sewer cleanup crew can give you peace of mind when it comes to draining away the water and leaving your home smelling clean and fresh once more.

Dealing With the Aftermath of Water Damage

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can lead to severe damage if not treated right away.

The aftermath of water damage on a residential property can be devastating for unsuspecting homeowners. It is easy to look at a flooded living area and feel like all is lost, but fear not, the damage is not typically as bad as it seems. However, as with any natural or manmade disaster, you need to take action to limit the loss. Every homeowner should take three steps to protect their property after a water problem.

3 Steps To Deal With The Aftermath Of Water Damage

1. Mitigate Further Damage

Whether the damage is the result of an exterior flood or broken pipes, you should try to limit as much damage as possible. In fact, many insurers require homeowners to take mitigative action to prevent further loss. You can turn off the water supply to your home or the affected area, put out buckets for a leaky roof, or call for assistance.

2. Contact Your Insurer and a Mitigation Specialist

When water damage occurs, your first phone call should be to your insurance company, notifying them of the problem. The insurer will typically schedule a time for an insurance adjuster to come out and assess the property.
Beyond the insurance company, contact a water restoration service in Salt Lake City, UT, for an emergency assessment. The company will send out a crew to inspect the property and offer any mitigation services to limit damage to your house.

3. Document the Loss

Before the restoration service gets too far along in the water cleanup process, you should take pictures of the damage. Most insurance companies will want homeowners to create a statement of loss and having photographs to prove damage help speed up the claims process.

No homeowner wants to deal with water damage, but if you have to, it pays to know how. The three steps above are not exhaustive. For more extensive information, you might consider contacting your insurance representative or a water restoration specialist.

Alternatives to Using Chemical Drain Cleaners

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

Clogged drains can cause damage to your home.

A chemical drain cleaner is a powerful tool when it is used correctly in a clogged drain. However, they can cause damage in the wrong situation.

The chemical cleaners produce heat, and this can lead to damage:

• Weakened older pipes may develop cracks and leaks.
  
• Plastic pipes may become warped and misshapen.
  
• If the drain is completely blocked, the chemicals will sit in one place and eat through the pipes even if they are relatively new.
  

In addition to these risks, the chemicals could harm you and your environment:

The chemicals in drain and sewage cleaning products are toxic and are generally more damaging to skin than to plastic and metal pipes.
Even breathing the fumes could lead to irritation.

Before you treat your drain with chemicals, consider the risk of damage to the piping system. It may be worth your time to reach out to water damage cleanup and repair professionals.

How Chemical Cleaners Work

If you understand how drain cleaners work, you'll be better prepared to make the right decision about whether to use them in a clogged drain. There are three types of chemical cleaners:

• Acid
  
• Caustic
  
• Oxidizing
  

Although the makeup of these products are different, they all cause a chemical reaction, either adding electrons or removing them from the gunk in your pipes. However, as the fats, oils, and grease break away from the clog, they simply move further down the drain and end up forming a new clog deeper in your pipes.

Alternatives to Drain Chemicals

There are two methods you could try before pouring chemicals down your drain. First, you can try manually clearing the clog. Secondly, you could try a non-toxic enzyme cleaner that introduces living bacteria or enzymes into the pipes. This option may take 24 hours or so before you see results.

For the Best Results

Professional cleaners are some of the best Salt Lake City, UT, professionals to address your clogged drain issue. If you have already put a chemical in the drain, be sure to alert the technicians before they start working.

What To Do When You Have Black Water From Flooding

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage water is called black water.

When you have flood water in your building it is important to remove it as quickly as possible to mitigate the amount of water damage to your property and reduce the chance of future problems, such as mold growth. Before you can begin removing the water, you must first determine what type of water is present in the structure.

Categories of Water

The type of remediation you need depends on how the water in your structure is classified. Water from flooding is categorized in three ways:

• Water from a source that does not contain excessive microbial content is called clean water. Water from a broken supply line is an example of clean water.
  
• Water that contains a large number of microorganisms and their nutrients is considered gray water. Water from a sump pump failure is an example of gray water.
  
• Water that is grossly unsanitary because it contains pathogens such as sewage is called black water. Contaminated flood water is one such example.
  
  

Remediating Black Water

This type of water may contain hazardous substances such as human or animal waste, pesticides, gasoline, and heavy metals. Because special equipment and training are needed to safely remove this water, contact a professional storm damage remediation company in Salt Lake City, UT, rather than attempt to remove it yourself.
Standing water should be removed immediately and disposed of in a septic waste transporter or sanitary sewer system. The building should be dried out as soon as possible to reduce the spread of bacteria and mold.
Workers should use protective gear, such as respirators, goggles and rubber gloves when removing this type of water and wash their hands with soap and water before smoking, eating, or touching their mouths.

Because of the risk of contamination, flood water should always be treated as black water. Prompt remediation will reduce the amount of property damage and the risk of exposure to contaminants.

What Is mold?

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Mold thrive in places with high moisture.

Most homeowners are familiar with the type of mold that grows on their shower curtain or the food that has been in the fridge for too long. However, when stories about black mold started making the news, many people became much more concerned about it. This is a brief overview of what mold is.

Facts About Mold

What Mold Is

Mold is a kind of fungus. Mold can live almost anywhere but tends to thrive in places with high moisture. Small amounts of mold are present in most environments but do not become problematic until they begin to rapidly reproduce due to changes in the environment, such as a moisture problem, that promote their growth. Mold can be one of several different colors:

• Black
• Orange
• White
• Green
• Purple

Where Mold Grows

Mold can grow on floors, walls, appliances, carpet or furniture. It tends to grow more rapidly in moist conditions, which makes mold more common in bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, crawl spaces and basements. However, black mold and other types of mold can also become a problem in homes with water damage from floods, severe storms or leaks, which makes prompt water remediation an important defense against mold problems after water damage has occurred.

Mold Prevention Tips

One of the most effective ways to avoid mold problems is to promptly address any moisture issues in your home. If your home has water damage, contact a professional in Salt Lake City, UT, to remove the source of the water and dry out your home. If you find mold growth, the earlier mold cleanup is done, the better chance you have to prevent the problem from spreading throughout your home.

Black mold and other types of fungus can cause severe property damage when left untreated. However, you can mitigate this problem by quickly eliminating sources of excess moisture and promptly removing existing fungus issues in your residence.

3 Ways Business Interruption Insurance Protects Your Business

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Protect your business with interruption insurance

Interruption insurance provides coverage for income lost due to damage to a business caused by a covered cause of loss. There are multiple ways that this coverage helps protect your business, including these three.

3 Ways That Business Interruption Insurance Protects Your Business

1. Replaces Lost Income

If a covered cause of loss causes damage to your property that results in lost income due to a business interruption, destruction of inventory or another issue, your insurance will compensate you up to the limits of the policy. The amount of reimbursement is based on your preloss earnings and is usually calculated as revenues less ongoing expenses. For example, if a severe storm damaged your roof, leading to water damage in your building that forced you to close while a restoration service in Salt Lake City, UT, worked to dry out your building, you may be compensated for the lost revenue that resulted from that closure.

2. Covers Extra Expenses

In addition to replacing lost income, interruption insurance provides reimbursement for extra expenses incurred due to damage from a covered cause of loss. For example, if your building was damaged in a fire and you had to temporarily move your business to a different location while fire restoration repairs were being made, the cost of moving to and renting that location would be covered as an extra expense.

3. Helps Businesses Re-Open Faster

Without coverage for lost income and extra expenses, many businesses struggle to make payroll and cover ongoing expenses after a loss. This can cause some businesses to close permanently. Business interruption coverage makes it easier for businesses to cover immediate expenses and return to operations as quickly as possible.

Interruption insurance protects businesses from the financial risks of not being able to operate during the period between when damage occurs and when the business can resume normal operations. An insurance professional in your area can help explain how this coverage can benefit your business.

Three Steps for Safety as a First Responder

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

First responder's safety is important.

As a first responder in Park City, UT, your ability to keep others safe is dependent upon your own safety and well-being. This means that you have a responsibility to prepare yourself, as well as your home and family for possible flood disasters.

3 Steps for Safety

1. Develop Appropriate Handwashing Skills

As a first responder, handwashing is one of your most valuable means of avoiding illness and sharing illness with family members. Don't rush through this task:

• Use running water when possible.
  
• Lather enough soap to cover all parts of your hands, fingers (including fingernails), and wrists.
  
• Scrub your hands, between your fingers, under your nails, and over your wrists for at least 20 seconds.
  
• Rinse thoroughly under running water.
  
• Dry hands with a towel or allow your hands to air-dry.
  

Finally, avoid touching your face as much as possible.

2. Stay Up to Date With Vaccinations

Immunizations, such as a Hepatitis B vaccination and a new tetanus booster every ten years can help you avoid serious illness as you come into contact with a variety of contaminants, especially when you are part of a flood response. The CDC also recommends the rabies vaccine series in case of exposure to potentially rabid animals. As always, check with your medical professional for more information.

3. Personal Protective Equipment

When emergency restoration professionals arrive at your home to address necessary cleanup and repairs, they'll probably arrive in waterproof clothing, heavy-duty boots and gloves, eye protection, and protective masks. You should have access to the same. This type of PPE provides a barrier between your skin and contaminants in the floodwaters. After your work, remove this equipment in an isolated space and store it in a plastic bag away from your other clothes.

Just Three Steps

Take the time to thoroughly wash your hands. Get recommended vaccinations. Suit up in personal protective gear. These three simple steps can you stay safe as a first responder, so you are able to carry out your responsibilities on the job and at home.

Tips for Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher for Your Home

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Choosing the right fire extinguisher for your home can help you avoid further fire damage.

No homeowners like to think about a fire breaking out in their homes, but having a proper safety plan means preparing for the worst case scenario. Sometimes, the fire starts as a small, manageable flame that you can put out yourself, but in order to do this effectively, you have to have the right fire extinguisher within reach. Here are some tips for choosing the appropriate models for your home in Salt Lake City, UT.

3 Things to Consider When Choosing the Appropriate Fire Extinguisher

1. Effectiveness

A home fire can be caused by several issues:

• Ignited combustibles, such as wood or textiles
  
• Flammable substances, such as grease or gasoline
  
• Electrical problems
  

Some extinguishing agents work better on typical combustibles than others. You want to either make sure the label on your extinguisher indicates that it can cover all three categories of fire or purchase multiple extinguishers to place near high risk areas such as the kitchen.

2. Placement

There are several areas throughout your home where you need a fire extinguisher. Fire restoration experts recommend that you have an extinguisher in your garage and any other area where you work with electricity or flammable materials. You need one near your kitchen so that you can put out any fires that happen while you are cooking or baking, and you may consider adding an additional extinguisher within arm's length of the stove itself. Because of the risk of lint fires, you should also have an extinguisher in the laundry room. Since a home fire can break out anywhere, though, it's smart to have enough extinguishers that there is always one within a short distance.

3. Size

The size of the extinguisher depends on its potential use and the area it may have to cover. For large open spaces, a 10-pound extinguisher is appropriate. Most of the canisters throughout your home should be 5-pound models to cover smaller spaces. A 2-pound portable extinguisher is useful to have in your car.

Unless your home is very small, you likely need more than one fire extinguisher. Knowing what to buy and where to put them is a vital part of your fire preparedness plan.

Tips for Maintaining Your Fire Sprinkler System

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Proper sprinkler maintenance can protect your business from further damage.

If not serviced properly, a sprinkler based suppression system go off accidentally, causing massive water damage to a business. You might even have to find a water remediation company in Park City, UT to repair the damage. Fortunately, there are some sprinkler maintenance tasks that you can do to avoid accidental activation.

Tasks for Fire Sprinkler System Maintenance 

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Sprinkler systems have to be checked and serviced at regular intervals. Contact your systems contractor:

• When your yearly maintenance comes up
  
• Every fifth year for a full pipe inspection
  
• If a sprinkler head is damaged
  
• When you notice any rust or decay
  

Regular sprinkler maintenance by a systems contractor is essential to the health of your system. It can keep your system running correctly and save you thousands in damages due to accidental activation.

Avoid Blocking the Sprinklers

It is extremely important that the sprinkler heads remain clear of any furniture, supplies or other materials. When they are covered or hindered, they cannot put out a fire effectively. Blockages also interfere with heat and smoke sensors. Each head needs at least 18 inches of clearance between the sprinkler and anything beneath or around it.

Check Your Sprinkler Caps

You can check these yourself. The sprinkler caps are also called Fire Department Connections and are located outside of your building. These water intake caps allow your local fire department access to your sprinkler system. They can link their equipment into the network of fire sprinklers and use it to help fight the fire in your building. You will want to check these around every third month.

Visually Inspect Pipes

A visual inspection of your pipes can save you time and money down the road. Signs of rust, decay or leaks are easily spotted before they become a serious problem. Look for white edges and rust, particularly around pipe joints. These are early signs that the pipes might be failing.

An automatic sprinkler system is one of the best precautions you can have against a fire. Proper sprinkler maintenance can help keep your sprinklers functioning perfectly.

How To File a Flood Damage Claim After the Disaster

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage in Salt Lake City, UT.

If your home in Salt Lake City, UT, was flooded by a natural cause or disaster, it’s time to file a flood claim. This can help you get the funding you need to recover from the damage. However, filing an insurance claim can be confusing. Here are three things you can do to successfully make a claim.

Three Things To Do To Make a Claim

1. Start the Process

The first thing you can do is notify your insurance agency of the flood. Do this as quickly as possible so that an adjuster can contact you within the next few days. You can discuss what action to take and what you should be doing on your end while you wait. Be sure to have the name of your insurance, the policy number, and your phone number ready.

2. Document Everything

Next, photograph the damage. It’s important to document everything that was damaged during the flood so that you have evidence of what losses you suffered. Take pictures and videos of your entire home. You can also make a list of damaged or lost items and use that in your flood claim. Don’t forget to place damaged items outside to prevent mold growth within the house.

3. Back Up Your Claim With a Proof of Loss

With the help of your adjuster, you can create a Proof of Loss to prove that you are claiming the correct amount of money. This contains specific details concerning the damage from the flood and must be filed within 60 days of the disaster. Once you and your insurance company agree on the amount, the claim payment should come.

Insurance can be beneficial when dealing with the water restoration process, and filing a flood claim doesn’t have to be complicated. By carefully and concisely compiling evidence and keeping in touch with your insurance company, you can file the claim and receive payment. Keep in contact with your insurance company to find out how you can best receive the help you need.

Keep Mildew Out of Your Bathroom

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent bathroom mildew or mold

Whether you live in an area where humidity is a consistent problem or you only occasionally deal with excess moisture, knowing how to prevent mold growth is vital to preventing mold from growing in your Salt Lake City, UT, bathroom.

Prevent Mold Growth in Your Bathroom

The first step is identifying the main causes of your humidity problem:

• It's normal to enjoy the feeling of a hot shower with plenty of steam, but this lack of proper ventilation is one of the leading causes of mildew growth. It's best to run a fan, leave the bathroom door open when showering, or open an outside window.
  
• Make sure that the people showering in your home don't leave damp towels lying around or neglect to air dry the shower rug.
• At least once a week, it's important to clean the toilet and shower with commercial cleaners.
  
• The deterioration of tiles, grout, and floorboards allows moisture to get behind the walls and under your flooring. Keep a close eye on your grout. Some experts recommend replacing shower grout once or twice a month.
  
  

Make it a habit to reduce moisture and humidity in the bathroom to discourage new growth.

Identify Existing Trouble

If you already have evidence of mold or mildew, take steps right away to clean and correct it. The most common types of bathroom mildew or mold include Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Stachybotrys (or black mold.) Because it is hard to know which type of mold is present, it's best to hire water damage cleanup professionals to test for and get rid of mold. Professionals have access to equipment and supplies for testing which types of mold are present and determining how widespread the mildew has grown.

Repel Mold Growth

Mold loves to grow in warm, damp areas, and the environment in bathrooms is often very inviting for floating spores. In addition to providing this inviting atmosphere, the bathroom also has plenty of hidden nooks and crannies where mold spores can settle and support new colony growth.

The first steps for preventing bathroom mildew include increasing ventilation, removing wet clothing and towels, and replacing damaged grout.

How To Administer First Aid for Burns

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Know how to administer first aid for burns

A fire in your commercial building in Salt Lake City, UT, not only has the potential to cause costly fire damage to the structure but also can put people in danger of burns as they try to escape. Knowing some basic first aid for burns is necessary for situations such as this.

First Aid For Burns

Severity Assessment

The first thing you must do before any burn first aid is applied is determine how severe the injury is. Look for symptoms associated with major burns:

• Deep wound
• Dry or leathery skin
• Charred area with black, brown or white patches
• Circumference larger than 3 inches

Minor Burn Care

If a small area of burned skin is merely red and hot or has a few blisters, similar to a bad sunburn, the person likely only has a minor burn. Once they are clear from the fire damage of the burning building, start by cooling the burn with running water or a cool compress. Once it has cooled completely, you can apply a soothing lotion such as aloe vera to provide comfort and keep the skin from drying out. Bandage the burn loosely with a clean, lint-free cloth or gauze. The patient can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Major Burn Care

First aid for major burns is a little different. The main goal of treating a major burn is to keep the person calm and safe until professional help can arrive. After you have called for emergency medical personnel, cover the burn with a loose cloth, but don't submerge it in water. Remove any jewelry and loosen tight clothing, as major burns can cause the area to swell. Keep an eye out for signs of shock such as fainting or shallow breathing, and keep the burn elevated above the heart if possible.

Fire restoration experts can take care of the fire damage to your building, but making sure injured people get the first aid they need depends on those around them. Knowing the correct action to take can save them a lot of pain in the long run.

Where to Start when Restoring a Flooded Basement

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO performed flood cuts to remove all water damaged materials in Park City, UT.

When flood season comes to Park City, UT, it can hit hard. The impact of the excess water is most likely to be felt by homeowners in the form of basement flood damage. Whether the sump pump failed or just couldn't keep up with the water flow, homeowners may be left scratching their heads. Feelings of where to start and what to do can be overwhelming. The following three steps may give some direction as to how to approach flood cleanup and prevention of future incidents.   

3 Steps to Cleanup Flood Damage

1. Remove Water

Before any repairs can be made, all of the water must be removed from the basement. Some people prefer to call a water removal and restoration company for assistance. Flooded basement water removal may look something like the following:

• Hiring an electrician to evaluate the risk of electric shock. 
• Getting the sump pump up-and-running to remove sitting water.
• Using a shop vacuum to suck-up the last inch or so of water. 
• Lifting carpet and using large fans to dry-out moisture. 
• Sanitizing with warm water and disinfectant to prevent mold growth.

2. Repair Damage

Once the area has been completely dried, repairs may be in order. Checking your home flood insurance coverage may be a good place to start. While salvaging some belongings may be an option, it is unwise to try to save anything which uses electricity or gas. If your gas furnace or electric outlets took on water in the flooding, replacement over repair is the safe route to go. 

3. Plan for Future Flood Prevention

Now that the basement is clean, dry and repairs are complete, it's time to plan ahead for the future. There is nothing worse than putting time and money into basement flood restoration only to have it ruined all over again. Consider the following preventative measures:

• Install a back-up pump.
• Create outside drainage for storm runoff.
• Buy a generator for use during a power outage.

Flooding in Park City, UT, is common. If a basement flood catches you by surprise, follow these three basic tips to get cleanup underway.

4 Steps To Take When You Smell Gas

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

Avoid a gas fire in your home.

Most homeowners in Salt Lake City, UT, are familiar with the smell of natural gas, but it's not ever something you want to encounter when you are inside your house. To avoid a gas fire, you need to respond quickly any time you smell this telltale odor inside your home. Follow these four steps to keep your home, your family and yourself safe.

4 Steps To Keep Your Home and Family Safe

1. Avoid Sparks

If there is a significant gas leak in your home, the last thing you want to do is ignite it. Your gut reaction may be to pull out your cell phone and call 911, but it may result in a gas explosion. Resist the urge to turn on devices or flip on light switches until you know for sure the threat is gone.

2. Increase Ventilation

Airing out your home can help you avoid a gas fire. Open windows in several rooms to allow a cross breeze to come through. By dispersing the natural gas, you decrease the chances that an errant spark will ignite it and cause damage to your home.

3. Locate and Extinguish Source

Appliances such as your stove can leak gas into your home, especially if someone accidentally bumps the controls when walking by them. Complete a quick run-through of your home, checking every place from which the leak could emanate. Fire restoration experts also recommend using the main shutoff valve to keep more gas from getting to these appliances.

4. Vacate House

As soon as you can, you and your family should get out of the house. Put some distance between you and the structure, and then call 911 for assistance. Don't re-enter your home until you are cleared to do so.

If you smell gas, do what you can to get rid of it and then get out and let the professionals handle the rest. Following these tips can help you avoid a gas fire in your home.

How Pretesting Reduces Claims

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

The overall claims can be reduced by pretesting first.

Even your most vigilant clients in Salt Lake City, UT, may occasionally have to file claims for damage to their commercial properties. When you work with SERVPRO to remedy that damage, you can rest assured that pretesting will be part of the cleanup process. Including this vital step ensures that technicians have a clear picture of what needs to be done before the work begins and can reduce the overall claim.

Pretesting Helps Technicians to Have a Clear Picture Before Work Begins

Contamination

Some mitigation companies see a pipe burst and assume that the damage it causes is from clean water. There are several ways that the water can become contaminated, though:

• Leaving standing water for an extended amount of time
• Leaking slowly into already contaminated spaces
• Saturating the ceiling of the floor beneath the leak

By verifying the level of contamination through a preliminary test, water damage specialists reduce the insurance claim by planning the appropriate measures from the start.

Humidity

When there is water damage in your client's building, pretesting the humidity levels in the area is crucial for avoiding secondary damage. Excess moisture in the air can lead to a mold problem within as little as 24 hours. If they can detect and lower the humidity, they can often save you money on the claim by preventing fungus from invading damaged surfaces in the first place.

Mold

If damage reports to the insurance agent and the mitigation company are delayed by hidden leaks, technicians may not have the opportunity to start remediation before mold grows. A professional mold test tells them what kind of fungus is present, where it is located and how extensive the damage is. This test allows them to tackle the issue head on without any further delays.

The first step to solving any problem is defining it properly. Pretesting allows the mitigation team to plan and execute the cleanup process efficiently, reducing both restoration time and claim totals.

Category 1 Cleanup

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Bursting pipes can cause severe water damage.

Water damage in your commercial building in Salt Lake City, UT, is never good news, but if the problem comes from a busted pipe or another clean water source, it is relatively easy to mitigate. The key to an easier fix is calling water remediation experts as soon as the problem occurs. This allows them to get the cleanup process started quickly before the water becomes contaminated. Here are the steps you can expect them to take when they arrive.

4 Steps For Cleanup Process

1. Assessment

The first thing technicians do is survey the damage. Their initial assessment involves several vital bits of information:

• Source of the leak
  
• Size of the affected area
  
• Extent of the damage
  

The source is what tells them if the problem was caused by contaminated water. A leaky supply line or a broken pipe indicates that the water involved is clean. Unless there are other circumstances that complicate the issue, this discovery typically shortens the remediation process overall.

2. Drying

Water removal is the next task. Any standing water in the area must be pumped out. Technicians may use dehumidifiers or industrial fans to help the space dry more quickly.

3. Removal

Even clean water can ruin porous or delicate materials such as drywall or insulation, so some of these items may have to be torn out and discarded. Specialists remove everything that cannot be salvaged so that it doesn't lead to secondary damage.

4. Restoration

Once all the damage and water has been taken out, the restoration team can begin to rebuild. New insulation is added. New walls are constructed, and the paint or wallpaper is applied so that it matches the area around it. Any flooring that had to be torn out is also replaced.

No water damage is desirable, but issues resulting from a clean water leak are usually the easiest to handle. If you catch the problem before the water has a chance to sit and get contaminated, the cleanup process should go pretty smoothly.

Strategies for Cleaning Up Small Mold Patches in Your Home

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage on a ceiling in a Park City, UT home.

Getting rid of mold in your Park City, UT, home and preventing new growths can be a challenge. Moisture problems, high humidity and other circumstances can cause fungi to grow in almost any room. Smaller mold patches can be equally frustrating because if they are treated improperly, the spores can spread to other areas and grow anew. Fortunately, there are a few strategies you can use to clean up these spots before they can multiply.

3 Strategies to Clean Up Small Mold Patches.

1. Identify the Mold Type

If you find some house mold while cleaning, it may help to try and identify what type you are dealing with so you can use an effective strategy to destroy it. For example, if you are cleaning out your fridge and find leftovers with mold on them, it is likely a penicillium strain and can be spotted by its white or light green, fuzzy appearance. Throw the food away and then disinfect the container and the fridge shelf with an equal mix of distilled water and baking soda.

2. Avoid Using Bleach

Finding mold growth in your home may cause you to reach for the nearest bleach-based household cleaner, but this may do more harm than good. Bleach contains a good amount of water, which may only feed moisture-loving mold. Instead, battle those small patches of mold or mildew with baking soda or diluted white vinegar and dry the spot thoroughly to discourage further growth.

3. Call in a Professional

While cleaning up one small patch mold on your own is probably harmless, multiple patches may need the attention of a mold cleanup and remediation service. Splotches that grow near each other may indicate that the fungi is spreading, so having professionals come in to clean out the mold and the odor it causes may be the best choice for protecting your home.

House mold can be frustrating for you as a Park City, UT, homeowner. However, when you know how to clean up small patches before they spread, you can prevent a serious infestation later on.

Carpet Restoration After a Flood

11/26/2020 (Permalink)

Carpet restoration after suffering water damage.

A pipe break in your home in Salt Lake City, UT, can saturate your floor in a hurry. When this happens, should you have your carpet replaced or simply cleaned? There are several factors that can help you make the right decision and prevent further damage.

3 Factors That Prevent Further Carpet Damage After a Flood

1. Contamination

The main determinant of whether water restoration specialists will need to tear out and replace your carpet or invest time in drying and cleaning it is the contamination level of the flood water. You probably won't have to replace it if the water came directly from a clean source:

• Pipe
  
• Supply line
  
• Faucet
  

If the leak is from an appliance, sewer backup or storm flooding, however, the carpets that are affected will need to be torn out. This helps prevent bacteria in the water from getting trapped in your home.

2. Duration

As soon as you know you have a pipe break in your house, you should call both the plumber and the restoration team as soon as possible. Allowing your saturated flooring to remain in standing water can turn a clean water problem into a gray water problem in a relatively short amount of time. A quick cleanup may be able to keep the water in the carpet from seeping down into the pad beneath where it can hide and cause secondary damage such as mold growth later.

3. Complication

There are other instances that can contaminate clean water, making it necessary to replace your flooring instead of just cleaning it. Even if the water came out of a clean source, if it then soaked through from the floor above, it probably picked up some microbes along the way. If the carpet was already old or dirty before the flood happened, it may not be able to be salvaged. Technicians must assess each unique situation to determine the course of action that is best.

To save your carpets after a pipe break, several criteria must be met. Restoration services are necessary for a quick assessment.

Avoiding Lasting and Costly Home Damages

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth begins when water damage is left untreated.

Homeownership is a part of the average person's dream life, but few consider the overwhelming responsibility of achieving such aspirations. Maintenance issues are not optional when you own a residence. Any delay in repairs or inspections can lead to costly mitigations. A common problem hidden problem is water damage, which can lead to mold growth if not corrected quickly. Mold removal and water mitigation companies in Salt Lake City, UT, can help limit expenses, but only when they receive an early notification.
The problem is too many people believe they can DIY their way to a budget-friendly repair, but that can lead to significant issues. Without the appropriate knowledge and skill set, you can spend more than is necessary from ongoing and compounding problems.

Lasting And Costly Damages Due to Untreated Water Damage

• Mold spread
  
• Insufficient repair
  
• Structural damage
  

Calling an Expert is Necessary

When dealing with water damage, getting an expert is necessary, especially if the problem is not visible. With most plumbing situated behind walls and ceilings, expert assistance is often required.
If a leak is ongoing, then a mold analysis is an excellent idea, and if the results indicate toxic mold, many states require a licensed black mold removal expert.

Professionals Guarantee Their Work

There is no monetary safety net when choosing to perform mold removal by yourself. Sure, you think you resolved the cause of the problem, but you are out more money when the mold and water damage return if you haven't. Professionals resolve the pressing issue and guarantee their work, which means if the problem is not resolved, they will return to fix it, saving you time and money in the long term.

Homeownership is a pride among many people, but they cannot ignore their responsibilities. Routine maintenance and inspection help to eliminate the threat of overwhelming water and mold problems, limiting mold removal to only minor issues should they arise in the future. Keep a maintenance schedule of all utilities to reduce your risks further.

Flood Prevention for Your Property and Community

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy precipitation can flood streets.

As the owner of a commercial property, you need to consider flood prevention in two ways: how to mitigate flooding in and around your building and how to encourage proper water management in your community. There are several ways that your property could experience an emergency flow of water:

• Heavy precipitation that the community isn't prepared to handle
• Rising levels of rivers and other waterways
• Strong winds and tornadoes that carry water into communities that don't normally experience those levels of water
• Damaged or aging municipal plumbing systems

Rising water is a risk in many areas of the country, including areas with desert environments. Is your property protected from water damage that occurs during community flooding?

3 Water Damage and Flood Prevention Steps

1. Determine Your Flood Risk

Reach out to community leaders and your insurance provider to learn your property's areas of vulnerability. If your building is located near a river or ocean, you may need to prepare for the eventuality of rising water levels. If you are in an older community, it may be necessary to protect your building from breaks along the sewer lines.

2. Identify Appropriate Flood Mitigation Techniques

First, work to develop flood prevention methods that specifically target your property. Next, encourage local leaders to take steps that protect Salt Lake City, UT, communities. Some of the most common techniques include elevating buildings, building levees or flood walls, wet floodproofing and dry floodproofing, or building an infrastructure that can handle increasing amounts of water.

3. Understand Your Financial Risks

For the best results, the flood cleanup process should be handled by experienced water cleanup and restoration professionals. The costs associated with hiring these technicians is just one of the financial consequences of citywide flooding. Other costs to consider include the amount of time your commercial organization is out of commission and the potential for tax increases.

As you work through these water damage and flood prevention steps, remember that you need to think about your own property and the surrounding community. Reach out to resources in your community, such as government agencies and your own insurance provider.

What To Do After a Storm Damages Your Roof

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

Hail can damage your roof

High winds and hail can do a number on your roof. When a storm rocks Salt Lake City, UT, necessitating the need for roof repair, here are the five steps you should take first.

5 Steps To Repair Your Roof After Storm Damage

1. Stay Safe and Be Smart

If your roof is treacherous, or if you simply don’t feel comfortable climbing up there and looking around, don’t hesitate to contact a storm damage mitigation company. It will send somebody out to perform most, if not all, of the following steps for you and determine the best way to proceed with repairs and restoration.

2. Perform a Visual Assessment From the Ground

Walk around your house and take a good look at your roof from there, watching out for any signs of hail or wind damage. Inspect any roof accessories, too, such as flashing or downspouts.

3. Check Your Gutters

Look for dents in your gutters, viewing them either from the ground, from a window or from a ladder where possible. Ideally, any inspections conducted on the surface of the roof itself should be done by a roof repair specialist.

4. Inspect Your Windows

In addition to using them as a vantage point for assessing parts of your roof, gutters and other roof accessories, check your windows for broken or chipped glass, cracks, damaged screens and weather stripping that’s come loose.

5. Assess Your Attic and Other Interior Ceilings

Roof damage can also be evident inside your home as well. Look for signs of leakage on your ceilings, including ceiling-mounted light fixtures, even if the outside of your home seems perfectly fine. Hail and other debris can create small cracks in your roof that may, in turn, allow water into your home.

A thorough inspection of your roof is the first step toward managing a roof repair. If you notice signs of rain, hail or wind damage, don’t hesitate to contact a trusted roofing professional to perform a more thorough assessment and start the roof restoration process right away.

Three Ways To Put Out Grease Fires Safely

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Grease fire is a common type of kitchen fire in Salt Lake City, UT.

One of the most common types of kitchen fires is the grease fire. As oil and grease collect on your stovetop or inside your oven, it presents an increasing risk. When you're heating food or preheating your appliance, the oils get closer and closer to their flashpoint. This is the temperature that it takes for the oil to burst into flame.

What To Do and What To Avoid

One of the most crucial things you need to know about putting out a grease fire in your home is to NEVER put water on that fire. Water doesn’t mix with oil; instead, the water will sink below the oil, and as it evaporates, the moisture sends burning oil throughout your kitchen. Instead of using water, use one of the following techniques:

• Cover the flames with a metal lid. The seal between the dish containing the burning oil and the metal lid must be tight enough to prevent oxygen from reaching the flames.
• Pour baking soda or salt over the fire. Baking soda puts out the flames because it contains carbon dioxide, cutting off the oxygen supply. You'll need a lot of baking soda. Keep a #10 can or one of the big boxes from the laundry aisle. Salt absorbs heat, and you'll only need about one cup to put out the fire.
• You can avoid a lot of trouble and damage when you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen. It's important to have the right type of extinguisher, however. You could choose a multipurpose extinguisher; just be sure there is a B or K in the label.

There are several things you may have in the kitchen that can make matters worse. For example, do not use flour, baking powder, or sugar. The chemical reaction between these ingredients and the grease will make the fire worse instead of better. Some people suggest draping a damp cloth over the flames. However, if any water from the cloth drips or splashes onto the flames, the fire may explode in your face.

Get Help When You Need It

As soon as you feel that the grease fire is out of your control, call 911, and make sure that members of your household safely leave the home. If your home suffers any damage, contact fire cleanup professionals to handle repairs.

The Importance of Water Prevention During the Construction Process

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

Be mindful of water risks during construction.

New construction is exciting for business owners because it represents fresh beginnings. Unfortunately, a construction project's newness can blind a business owner to the potential pitfalls of development, like water damage. While water pipe repair may not be a current concern, there are many ways damage can occur, which is why it is crucial to consult a water restoration service in Salt Lake City, UT, at every stage of the project.

• Before construction
• During construction
• After construction

Water Prevention At Every Stage Of The Construction

Before Construction

The pre-construction phase is a critical time for your project. While plans and blueprints are essential for preparing materials and schedules, you must also consider the site's water susceptibility. If the land does not have the correct grade, you risk flooding the planned foundation, and you may threaten the integrity of the ground beneath the eventual site of your building. While a broken pipe is not a significant concern in the early stages of a project, ensuring the site's stability is integral.

During Construction

During the building process, inspections are your best friend. However, do not trust just anyone to perform the task; use qualified contractors.
Another way to ensure all is well is to create punch lists. A punch list is a checklist that laborers must complete every day.
By using punch lists in combination with inspections, you can avoid problems like new water pipe repair. These precautions ensure that every person is watchful and protective of the building and the site.

After Construction

When you have control over your building, and the project is complete, ensure you have protection in the form of a warranty for work. Warranties will cover any problems with the construction work. For instance, if the crew did not seal a bathroom correctly, leading to flooded rooms, the construction crew is obligated to repair the damage. You may also take advantage of warranties if an inspection uncovered something not completed correctly.

While the early stages of construction may not require a water pipe repair, you will always need to be mindful of water risks. Contact a local water mitigation service for more advice.

Is It Time To Replace Your Water Supply Lines?

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

There are several types of supply lines.

Many older homes could be moments away from a major pipe burst and serious flooding. This is because supply line damage is a common source of flooding in Salt Lake City, UT, homes. Fortunately, you can easily avoid this danger in your own home. Before attempting to DIY this project, you need to understand a few facts:

Facts About Water Supply Lines

• To avoid a supply line leak, you should replace the lines in your home every eight to ten years.
  
• Across the country, water damage restoration for a single dwelling costs between $2000 and $5000 on average.
• Check with your insurance company and cleanup and restoration professionals for tips about avoiding leaks, floods, and water damage in your home.
  
• Water from the plumbing system could contain contaminants that put your home and your health at risk. Keep this in mind before tackling any plumbing leak.
  

If your home is ten years or older, it's time to replace the supply lines throughout the home.

Where Are the Lines and How Many Lines Do You Have?

Your first step is to locate the supply lines. These are found behind each toilet and under every sink. There are supply lines between washing machines and other appliances that use water. Don't forget to check behind your refrigerator.

Which Replacements Do You Need?

As you browse through the selection of lines at your home repair, take note that there are lines for specific purposes. One important way to avoid supply line damage is buying an ice maker connection for your ice maker, a toilet connector for behind the toilet, and so on.

You may also notice that there are several types of supply lines, including copper, brass, plastic, and braided steel. If you aren't sure which is best, contact a professional for help. At this point, you either know how to complete the replacement or you don't. When you have any doubt about a bathroom leak or other plumbing task, turn the job over to professionals to avoid expensive supply line damage.

4 Tips To Prevent Mold Problems Caused by Your Swamp Cooler

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

A swamp cooler in Salt Lake City, UT.

You may use a swamp cooler in your Salt Lake City, UT, home instead of an air conditioning unit. While this equipment requires less electricity than an AC unit, it is more likely to result in mold growth because the cooler uses evaporative moisture to cool down your home. Thankfully, you and your team of mold remediation experts can follow certain maintenance steps to stop mold from becoming an issue.

4 Maintenance Steps To Avoid Further Mold Problems

1. Schedule Regular Cleaning. Even if you don't have a leaking swamp cooler, your unit could still have areas of mold buildup. Cleaning the ducts, drip pans and other sections of the cooler regularly may help you stop mold from making its way into your home.
2. Use a dehumidifier. Because this equipment introduces extra moisture to your home, you may benefit from running a dehumidifier with it. If you don't have one, you can try opening your windows slightly to allow some of the moisture out.
3. Make repairs. Any swamp cooler could lead to mold growth, but a leaking swamp cooler has an even bigger chance of creating this problem. The extra moisture caused by the leak could be enough to create a great habitat for the intrusive fungus. If you notice a leak, you need to get it repaired as quickly as possible.
4. Avoid humid days. Typically, the extra moisture introduced by this cooling system isn't a big deal. However, if the machine runs continuously during humid periods, you may be introducing too much extra moisture to your home. If you live in an area that's always high in humidity, it may be better to switch to an AC unit. Otherwise, try to avoid running your swamp cooler when it is exceptionally muggy out.

No matter the cause of mold growth in your Salt Lake City, UT, home, you want to address the problem as quickly as possible. If a leaking swamp cooler is to blame, learn about preventative steps you can take to stop the problem from recurring.

4 Ways To Prevent a Sewer Backup in Your Basement

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded home due to heavy storms.

The fall brings the worst storms of the years. If you live in places prone to flooding, then this is particularly worrying because it can lead to sewage backup. While you can have a sewer restoration company on speed-dial for sewer cleaning, it is often better to prepare your home for the inevitable storm damage that may occur. There are at least four ways you can prevent backups in your home.

4 Ways To Prevent Sewer Backups 

1. Drain Plugs

It is no secret that the most vulnerable entry point for sewage floods in the basement or lower level floor drain. You can install a floor drain plug as a cost-effective preventative. These easy to install devices are secured under your drain cover, and when water or sewage begins to back up the drain, a ball, teardrop-shaped, plugs the hole and prevents it.

2. Backwater Valve

A backflow prevention valve or backwater valve is installed away from the building. The valve is placed on the drainage pipe just outside of a residence. It is a one-way valve, which means that anything trying to flow back up the line will not be permitted to pass because the valve closes automatically. These devices should be installed by a professional plumbing service in Salt Lake City, UT. 

3. Overhead Sewer

An overhead sewer is likely the most effective tool against a sewage backup, but it is also the most expensive. The system works by using a sump pump to intercept sewage and force it to an ejector pump, which then launches the sewage to a check valve and pipe above flood level. The system keeps the sewage out of your basement and in the pipe system until the flood levels receded.

4. Standing Pipe

A standpipe is a simple preventive for minor floods. It is quite literally a pipe sitting in your floor drain and connected with a watertight seal. Any sewage flows into the line where it is held until sewage levels recede.

If you are concerned about the fall storm season causing a sewage backup, then contact a local mitigation company to discuss the above preventatives. While some are DIY friendly, most require professional help.

How To Prevent Further Loss After a Fire

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage

When your commercial property in Salt Lake City, UT, is ravaged by flames, you will need professional fire damage remediation. Until this process is complete, though, your building is vulnerable. By taking the following measures, you can protect what's left of your building until it can be fully restored and functional again.

3 Ways To Prevent Further Loss After a Fire

Board-Up Services

Fire tends to leave large, gaping holes in a building. Even if most of the things inside the structure are damaged, you still want to protect it from common problems:

• Looting
  
• Vandalism
  
• Animals
  
• Weather
  

Many fire cleanup companies offer board-up services as part of the mitigation process. They block off any entryway the fire left behind, such as broken windows or gaps in the roof or exterior walls, until they can be repaired.

Security Cameras

You may already have a security system set up around the perimeter of your property. If not, however, it's a good idea to install security cameras to keep a watch over the area when your building has fire damage. There are a few options available, and they all have their own advantages. For example, a hidden camera may help you catch a suspected ongoing problem, but an obvious setup can deter problems from happening in the first place.

Security Fence

If you don't have a fence around your property, you may want to consider putting one up after a fire. While it is not impossible for vandals and thieves to get around a fence, it adds one more barrier to their goal. Troublemakers who are looking for an easy mark may consider a security fence too much of a hassle and move on to other targets.

Fire damage is not the only concern you need to address after your building is engulfed in flames. It's important to make sure your building is secure, too. Boarding up vulnerable spots and installing security measures can protect it from additional damage.

Ice Dams and the Damage They May Cause

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Icicles hanging from the roof of a home.

Cold and harsh winters can result in significant property damage, especially for the unprepared homeowner. Storm remediation companies in Salt Lake City, UT, often express warnings of heavy snow leading to the development of an ice dam, which is an ice buildup that prevents water from draining off the roof as snow melts. There are five potential damages homeowners should worry about with this winter and cold weather structures.

1. Paint deterioration
   
2. Soft Siding
   
3. Wet Insulation
   
4. Roof Damage
   
5. Mold Growth

5 Potential Damages Caused By Ice Dams

Paint Deterioration

When a winter storm leads to the creation of a dam, residential property owners need to watch for signs of paint deterioration. If you see paint begin to bubble and peel, you need to take action and resolve the ice issue.

Soft Siding

When paint bubbles, it is likely a sign of water damage and soft siding. Unfortunately, if soft siding occurs, you may not receive ice dam coverage because dams are often considered preventable problems.

Wet Insulation

When an ice dam is left to sit, it is only a matter of time before the water from the roof makes its way beneath the siding and into the insulation. When the water reaches the insulation, it is paramount that homeowners act to mitigate any further property loss.

Roof Damage

As the dam can cause siding and insulation damage, it can also force melting snow underneath shingles, saturating the underlayment of the roof. If the water damage is not corrected quickly, you may experience several leaks in your attic and upstairs.

Mold Growth

As with any form of water damage, mold growth is a significant threat. Mold requires moisture to survive, and if the dam causes wet insulation or a leaky roof, you may only have between 24 and 48 hours before the first signs of mold occur.

An ice dam is a disaster that requires rapid mitigation to prevent interior and structural damage to your home. Contact a storm remediation specialist to assess your house and risks.

What Is an Electronic Insurance Claim?

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Advantages of making an electronic claim in Salt Lake City, UT.

An electronic insurance claim is a computer-generated form submitted to an insurance company via the internet after a disaster at your commercial property such as a flood or fire. Unlike a paper claim, it can be sent and received immediately. Because it requires very little time and very few physical resources, it’s often an effective to way to lower costs for both the insurer and the insured.

What Are the Advantages of Filing a Claim Electronically?

Your local SERVPRO restoration office may use electronic claims for a variety of reasons, most of which benefit not only the disaster recovery team but also you as its client.

• It can submit your insurance claim to your provider instantly.
  
• No envelopes, postage or other mailing supplies are required.
  
• Less effort on repetitive paperwork means more effort toward innovative disaster recovery.
  
• The status of submitted claims is easy to track as those claims move through the claim process.
  
• Any problems with your claim can be identified and resolved promptly.
  If your claim isn’t transmitted via the mail, it can’t get lost in the mail.
  Faster processing yields faster payment.
  
  

How Does Electronic Filing Reduce Rejections?

One of the biggest advantages of filing claims electronically is that it cuts down on the missteps that typically result in a rejected claim, such as forms with missing or inaccurate information. With a manual claim, once the error is spotted, you typically have to wait for new paperwork, fill it out, send it back and wait for your insurance company to begin the claims process once more. When you file your claim electronically, once an insurance agent spots a mistake, it can be corrected almost instantly, no matter how far your Salt Lake City, UT, commercial property is situated from the nearest claims center.
Filing an electronic insurance claim is a simple way to reduce stress following a disaster. Let technology streamline this part of the restoration process so you can focus on getting your business back to normal as quickly as possible.

What To Do Immediately After a Pipe Break

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded commercial property due to a broken pipe in Park City, UT.

Three Steps to Take When You Discover a Broken Pipe

A broken pipe can cause extensive damage within a matter of minutes. Bursting pipes can swiftly flood a commercial property in Park City, UT. This damage may be significant even if someone is on site when a pipe breaks. Severe flooding can take place if a pipe break occurs while a building is unoccupied. A property owner, manager or any occupant who discovers a broken pipe can take three steps to minimize damage.

1. Contact a Plumber

Plumbers have the tools and expertise necessary to fix broken pipe. It may take some time for a plumber to arrive. In the meantime, there are several measures that can limit the extent of damage caused by a pipe break.

2. Shut Off the Water Supply

Bursting pipes tend to be supply lines. It is possible to slow and eventually stop the flow of water by turning off the main water valve. This valve is typically located on the water pipe where piping enters the structure. A valve is often located near the water meter. Building owners and managers are likely to be aware of this location. It is a good idea to inform occupants who may be in the building at other times about the location of this valve. Relieve remaining pressure in pipes by turning on a faucet.

3. Try To Limit Damage

Collecting water in containers can limit the extent of damage to building materials. Try to use garbage bins or other containers with wheels that will be easier to move than heavy containers which require lifting. It is also a good idea to start removing water with any equipment available on site, such as towels, mops or a wet vac.

After bursting pipes have been fixed, a property owner or manager should immediately arrange for mitigation and restoration. Contact a company that specializes in commercial water damage in Park City, UT.

How To Prepare Your Commercial Building’s Exterior for Severe Weather

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Protect the exterior of your building before severe weather hits.

While regular exterior maintenance is a smart way to minimize costs at your commercial property year-round, a thorough building inspection is crucial for preventing damage during a severe weather event. Next time a storm threatens your building in Salt Lake City, UT, remember these four tips.

4 Tips To Prepare Your Commercial Building From Storm Damage

1. Put Your Walls to the Test

Water and walls can be a dangerous combination if those walls are harboring unseen cracks, leaks or other defects. In addition to performing a simple visual assessment of your building’s exterior walls, you might also consider enlisting the help of a trained professional. He or she can test for a variety of issues that are otherwise difficult to detect, such as water and air leaks or malfunctioning gaskets.

2. Check In With Your Cladding

Cladding may exist to lower your energy costs and protect your building from extreme weather, but that doesn’t mean it’s invincible. Before the next storm hits, make sure the last storm — or even a weather event that seemed harmless at the time — didn’t dislodge any cladding or cause the need for any other exterior maintenance.

3. Pay Attention to Susceptible Spots

Your building’s exterior contains a variety of components. Some of them are more weather-resistant than others. A commercial property’s windows, for example, are particularly vulnerable to storm damage. As you perform your building inspection, be sure to check not only your windows' general appearance but also that their weather stripping and insulation are intact and free from holes. Leaky seals don’t just inflate your monthly energy bills; they can also give storm damage a convenient entry point.

4. Don’t Forget the Roof

It may be a hassle, but taking a field trip to your roof is a vital part of keeping your building maintained. In addition to removing debris and checking for leaks and dislodged shingles, make sure your gutters are clean and free from obstructions. Any trees that approach your roof should be trimmed regularly to avoid scratches and falling debris, too.

The first step in water damage mitigation is storm preparedness. Make it part of your regular exterior maintenance, and you can minimize time and expense when extreme weather hits.

Tips For Handling a Partial Fire Loss

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

It's important to have a smoke detector in your commercial building in Salt Lake City, UT

If a fire completely guts your commercial building in Salt Lake City, UT, you have a good case for collecting the maximum coverage amount from your insurance company. When you suffer a partial fire loss, however, the payment amount can be skewed by several factors. Follow these tips to make sure you get the full compensation you actually need.

3 Tips For Handling a Partial Fire Loss

1. Report the Loss Immediately

One of the first calls you should make when you have any kind of smoke damage is to your insurance provider. The company will send an adjuster to your building to identify problems that your policy covers:

• Structural damage
  
• Soot damage
  
• Secondary damage
  

The sooner adjusters can come to your building, the more accurate their survey of the affected space is likely to be. This makes your claim more likely to be accepted.

2. Document the Damage

Don't just depend on your insurance adjuster to report everything that is wrong with your building after a fire loss. Remember that the adjuster represents the insurance company and thus may be motivated to underestimate the amount of payout that is necessary. Pictures of the destruction, an itemized list of damages and a copy of the invoice from the fire restoration company can all be used to back up your claim.

3. File in a Timely Manner

You may have as little as 60 days to file the claim for your partial loss. If you miss the deadline, you probably won't receive any payment at all. To be on the safe side, file all your paperwork as soon as you have adequate documentation to support it. The sooner you get your payout, the faster you can move on.

A partial fire loss may cost less money to mitigate, but it can also complicate the claims process. Report the damage promptly and be vigilant about documentation and repairs to ensure that you get the full amount you need.

How To Choose the Right Smoke Detectors For Your Home

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

A smoke alarm plays an important role in keeping your family safe

A smoke alarm plays an integral role in keeping your family safe as well as preventing extensive fire damage in the event of a fire. It lets you know you need to put your evacuation plan in action, and it can alert you early enough that minimal damage is done. It's important to know the specifics of what your home needs in terms of fire detection.

Types of Detectors

A gas explosion alerts you to fire pretty quickly, but with most home fires, the first sign you'll hear is the chirp from your detectors. There are several types of detectors to choose from:

• Photoelectric Detectors – useful for detecting large smoke particles from electrical fires or smoking upholstery
• Ionization Detectors – useful for detecting small smoke particles from grease or paper fires
• Dual-Sensor Detectors – have both photoelectric and ionization components
• Combination Detectors – may include carbon monoxide detectors
  
  

You can use all of one type of detector or a combination throughout your home. If you have a large home, it is helpful if all of them are wired together. That way, if one smoke alarm goes off, they all do. Then you can escape and call for fire damage cleanup from a safe distance away.

Locations of Detectors

You need a smoke detector in a central area on every level of your home. If you have an attic, it is advisable to install a device that detects heat rather than smoke, as most smoke detectors are not designed to be used in areas with extreme temperatures. For proper fire safety, you also need a detector outside each sleeping area and inside every bedroom.

A reliable smoke alarm system can mean the difference between needing fire cleanup and needing to find a new home altogether. Having the right type of detectors in the right locations can help you keep your home and your family safe.

Mold Remediation and Personal Belongings

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO to assess your property and belongings damaged with mold.

Have you recently discovered a mold infestation in your basement or attic? Are you concerned about your belongings, and curious if anything is salvageable? While mold cleaning performed by a professional mold remediation company in Salt Lake City, UT, can restore your property, the salvageability of your keepsakes depends on the material and the level of exposure. There are essentially three items that require addressing.

• Porous items
  
• Nonporous items
  
• Sentimental items
  

Porous Items

During mold remediation, the company you hire will likely throw away any porous items. Porous materials have gaps that mold spores root into. Unfortunately, mold roots deeply, which means that it is incredibly challenging to eliminate any remnants of the mold, even after a thorough cleaning. Therefore, the typical industry recommendation is to discard any items that have come into contact with the mold.

Nonporous Items

Nonporous items are different from porous items because there are no deep pores for the spore to root into. Most nonporous surfaces, like metals, glass, plastics and varnished woods, can be saved using standard mold cleaning methods. However, unless you know the species of mold you are dealing with, necessary safety measures, like gloves and the use of a mask, are suggested.

Sentimental Items

While the standards for mold damage removal and the elimination of affected property are pretty stringent, many companies will try to accommodate homeowners when it comes to sentimental items. You can find specialty cleaners who are willing to try to save contaminated porous items, but sometimes cleaning is not possible or recommended. It is best to consult with the remediation company to identify salvageable materials.

Mold cleaning is a job reserved for trained and certified companies. While it can be challenging to let go of certain items affected by mold, it may be necessary. Contact a local mold company to assess your property and belongings and allow them to take on the risks of a cleanup.

How To Avoid Water Damage While You Are Away From Home

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure your home is protected.

Vacation is a time to relax with your family and get a break from the worries of everyday life. Making sure your home in Salt Lake City, UT, is protected before you leave lets you enjoy your getaway. Whether you need water pipe repair or just someone to check on the house in your absence, completing this checklist can help put your mind at ease.

Inspect

A week before you leave on vacation is a great time to inspect your home for potential issues. You can ensure that your home is in good shape with a few key tasks:

• Check pipes for leaks.
  
• Look for supply line damage.
  
• Clean gutters and downspouts.
  
• Test sump pump.
  
• Insulate pipes to prevent freezing.
  
  

If you see any damage during your inspection, call a plumber to have it fixed before you leave home. If a leak from a broken pipe has already caused water damage, have water restoration specialists repair the damage. Taking care of these issues before you go can prevent a bigger mess.

Delegate

Even if you hire someone to complete water pipe repair before you leave, something could still happen in your absence. It's a good idea to have trusted friends or neighbors check on your home while you are gone. Make sure they know which plumber you prefer and where the water main is located. They should also have a reliable way to contact you in case they need to do so.

Block

If there is no one to watch your place while you're gone, it's best to turn off the water main for the whole house. A damaged pipe can't flood your house if there is no water running through it. Minimize your risk of a flooded home by shutting the water off at the source.

No one wants to come back from vacation to a flood that could have been prevented by simple water pipe repair. Check your home before you leave to avoid such problems.

Is It Necessary To Hire Coronavirus Cleanup Professionals?

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Hiring cleaning and remediation professionals is one of the best ways to limit coronavirus exposure.

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 has caused a lot of upset for people all over the world, as well as in the communities of Salt Lake City, UT. Individuals, families, and businesses have had to take steps to protect themselves from coronavirus exposure. Considering the severity of the virus, including serious medical issues and fatalities, it's important that businesses take appropriate steps to limit the risk of exposure within their buildings.

Hire SERVPRO Professionals for Cleaning and Disinfecting

One of the best ways to limit coronavirus exposure is to hire cleaning and remediation professionals for preventative and restorative cleaning. There are several steps SERVPRO professionals may take:

• All technicians use personal protective equipment appropriately
  
• Infected areas are cordoned off
  
• The use of industrial-strength disinfectants
  
• All surfaces are cleaned and disinfected
  
• All infected materials are treated and disposed of
  
  

Whether you believe that no one has been affected or you know that someone with the virus has been in your building, it's important to hire professionals with FDA-approved disinfectants. Look for professionals with specialized training and resources to handle your coronavirus cleanup. Remember that SERVPRO professionals are Here to Help.

Involve Employees in Safety Procedures

Of course, there are steps that all employees should be taking during the pandemic. These come from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Up-to-date information is available online:

Download the Restart Readiness Checklist

Encourage employees to stay home when they are sick, to wash hands appropriately, and cover mouths with tissues when coughing or sneezing
Avoid using items from other employee desks
Use masks and social distancing as appropriate

Some employers may consider conducting health checks to make sure the virus doesn't get carried into the business inadvertently.

Cooperating To Reduce Workplace Exposure

The covid-19 cleanup efforts taken by SERVPRO professionals and the steps that employers and employees complete may significantly slow the spread of the virus and reduce coronavirus exposure for everyone who enters the business and for their families and communities. It takes everyone working together to create safe workspaces.

The First 24 Hours After a Disaster

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the proper drying equipment to help cleanup your home after suffering water damage in Salt Lake City, UT.

When your home is on fire or your basement is filling with floodwater, you don't want to wait long for trained technicians to arrive. As you know, a fast response is the best way to prevent further damages. The first 24 hour period after experiencing damages is vital to the well-being of your home. Take a look at what you can expect:

• Within one hour
• Within four hours
• Within eight hours

Salt Lake City, UT, restoration professionals can accomplish a lot during the first hours after a disaster.

What You Can Expect From Restoration Professionals

The First Hour

A representative from the restoration company will call you within an hour after your first request for emergency help. During that phone call, you'll cover a lot of vital information that helps professionals determine which equipment and supplies to have available. You may discuss safety concerns or how to maintain communication with each other.
If the situation requires, technicians will arrive to cover holes with tarps or board up broken windows and doors. This emergency response team focuses on preventing further damages with temporary solutions. Even if repairs don't require a lot of work within the first 24 hour period, technicians will be on-site to verify whether an immediate response is necessary.

On-Site in Four Hours

Depending on the type of damage and safety concerns, clean up and restoration technicians will arrive at your home ready to thoroughly inspect your home. During these assessments, technicians can provide estimates regarding the type of repairs necessary and how long the job will take. They may talk to you about your insurance coverage and direct you to the next steps you should take. The restoration company is always open and committed to arriving Faster to Any Size Disaster; they'll load up the appropriate equipment and search out the best route to your home.

Eight Hours After Damages

Within those first hours, after gathering information and making assessments, a restoration representative will communicate with you, to share the information they've gathered, and to go over the plan for getting your home back in shape.

Within the first 24 hour period, you and technicians from the restoration company will share a lot of information, go through an onsite home inspection, and put together a plan for restoring your home so that it looks "Like it never even happened."

Black Water Precautions for Safety

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

It's important to learn more about Black Water and compare it with oher categories.

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification sets standards for professional members of the cleanup and restoration industry. According to the IICRC standards, black water damage cleanup must involve specialized equipment, supplies, and techniques. Why is this so important?

Compare "black" to other categories.

• White water is clean and safe to consume. It is fresh from the tap.
  
• Gray water may contain soap, fats, oils, hair, and bits of human skin. It is what's leftover after cooking, washing, and bathing.
  
• Black water often contains hazardous chemicals, pathogens, human waste, and animal feces. Flood water is almost always considered black.
  

Once you know what's in the water, it's easy to understand why flood cleanup and mitigation professionals would take extra precautions. What do professionals do to keep your family and themselves safe while cleaning up the watery mess?

Assessment

Before any work begins, water damage cleanup and restoration professionals will inspect and assess the damages. This is a necessary step that helps technicians prepare the most appropriate supplies and equipment, as well as providing you with an idea of how long the job may take.

Containment

One of the next steps will be making sure that contaminants and other hazards from the water aren't spread throughout the rest of your home. This may involve laying down plastic sheeting, and the situation may also require some testing of your plumbing system to be sure your drinking water isn't contaminated.

Protection

Technicians may don personal protective equipment, including gloves, protective goggles, boots, and other clothing that prevents contact between the technician and contaminants in the water. It's important that you recognize the precautions that technicians take. Keep your family safe by staying out of contaminated areas of the home until it is safe to return.

When your Salt Lake City, UT, home is affected by flooding, make sure you take necessary steps to avoid coming into contact with black water. Contact professionals right away to clean up water damage and provide any necessary reconstruction services.

Teaching Kids About Fire Safety

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Practice fire safety with your family to keep the safe.

As a parent, you want your child to feel safe at home. While teaching children about potential residential disasters might feel counterintuitive to creating a secure environment, fire safety is necessary to ensure their well-being should the worst occur. Most fire prevention and restoration experts in Salt Lake City, UT, can tell you there are four things every child needs to know to escape a fire.

4 Things Every Child Needs to Know

• Bed roll
• Fire crawl
• Door check
• Escape plan
  

Bed Roll

Heat rises. Temperatures between the floor and the ceiling can differ by a few hundred degrees during a fire. Teach your children how to get out of bed during an emergency. The bed roll is a simple maneuver, and it can save your kids' lives. First, have them roll to the edge of their mattress with their face toward the floor. Extend the hand closest to the edge down to the floor to brace themselves. Slowly, they will slide off of the mattress and onto the floor.

Fire Crawl

The next fire safety maneuver to learn is the fire crawl, which has two iterations. The first crawl is on all fours like a baby, with your forearms on the ground and your nose close to the floor. Some refer to the second crawl as an army crawl, and you use it when the heat is too great. For the second crawl, you lay on the floor and use your arms and legs to push you across the floor.

Door Check

Closing doors can often reduce fire damage, but opening a door during a fire is dangerous. Teach your children how to check a door safely with the back of their hand. Do not open a hot door.

Escape Plan

Create and practice a fire escape plan with your kids. You should practice multiple times throughout the year to ensure familiarity.
Fire safety is critical. While parents don't want to scare their children with a hypothetical, sometimes it is necessary to protect them.

How To Stay Safe During a Flood

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare a portable flood kit in your Sugar House, UT property

Flooding poses risks to residents of Sugar House, UT, as well as first responders. The following flood safety guidelines are helpful when preparing for flood conditions.

Follow Evacuation Orders

Residents should stay apprised of flooding risks and prepare to evacuate as soon as an order is issued. Plan ahead by assembling a portable flood preparedness kit that includes the following items:

• First aid kit
• Non-perishable food
• Water
• Flashlights and batteries
• Sleeping bags
• Jumper cables
• Flares
  
  

If a homeowner plans to stay at home, he or she should gather most of these items and store a home preparedness kit above the anticipated flood level. Stock up on enough food and potable water for several days.

Protect Yourself

Flood water may contain chemicals, heavy metals and pathogens. People should avoid drinking or making direct contact with this water. One of the most essential flood safety measures involves exercising caution near moving water. A person can easily lose his or her footing in six inches of moving water and vehicles may float in 12 inches of water.

Tips for First Responders

First responders should take additional precautions. Here are three of the best safety tips:

• Avoid electrical components
• Get immunized
• Wear personal protective equipment
  
  

Responders can reduce electrocution risks by avoiding downed power lines and making sure that the electricity has been shut off in any flooded structures they enter. Exposure to disease is another preventable risk. The Center for Disease Control recommends a tetanus booster for all disaster relief workers and the Hepatitis B vaccine for medical care providers. Relief workers should wear insulated and watertight electrical hazard boots, hip waders, waterproof work gloves, and eye protection. Respirators may also be necessary.

These flood safety suggestions can help to keep residents and first responders safe. Homeowners should contact a damage mitigation and restoration company if flood waters breach residences located in Sugar House, UT.

Get Help Tracking Insurance Claims

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Insurance coverage is important and SERVPRO can help tracking the insurance claims.

It doesn't take serious flooding or a major storm to lead to water damage in Salt Lake City, UT., commercial property; a leaking toilet that doesn't get noticed before the doors are closed over the weekend can lead to very expensive repairs. The same is true when it comes to fire, smoke, and other damages. A lot of work is required to restore the property after damages, and much of that work begins with an insurance claim.

Accurate Reports in Less Time

Working closely with insurance providers, SERVPRO understands the complexity of each claim and the need to work through the claim as quickly as possible. With this in mind, SERVPRO offers the Claims Inventory Center. This source of information offers each insurance agent access to

• Relevant facts and statistics from national, regional, and local sources
  
• Types of claims and information about losses
  
• Job costs compared by region and type of damages
  
• Other facts and numbers relevant to creating estimates

Agents often handle more than one claim at a time, so access to this information from one location helps them create accurate reports in less time.

Smooth Flow of Data

There are other benefits to accessing the Claims Inventory Center while working on each insurance claim. For example, the system is set up so that it can keep track of damaged items. Each time an agent submits a list of damages, the data associated with those claims is also stored. A restoration team submits information easily, and agents withdraw the facts they need without fuss.

Quick Exchange of Information

Information is accessed electronically. At one time, records were stored in rooms full of filing cabinets or cardboard boxes. Pulling specific information from these records wasn't always an easy task for agents. The electronic system, on the other hand, can be accessed conveniently. It makes it possible for each member of the restoration effort (insurance agents, restoration professionals, adjusters, for example) to communicate quickly without interrupting work.
A lot of work goes into the completion of an insurance claim. The Claims Inventory System helps agents and other professionals track claims, exchange information, and complete forms accurately and quickly.

Commercial Property Insurance and Water Damage

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Salt Lake City, UT.

Some of the most common insurance claims are those regarding water damage. While there are many ways for businesses to reduce risks, it's very difficult to prevent any type of water trouble, especially considering that water is a necessity in the workplace. Unfortunately, even a tiny bit of water in the wrong place can lead to serious and expensive damages. It's true that experienced water cleanup and repair professionals can put things back in order for your business, but what should you do on your end?

What Does Your Insurance Policy Cover?

The first step is to consider whether water damage is covered by your business insurance policy. The only way to be sure you have appropriate cover is to discuss your concern directly with a representative from your insurance company. There are a few general areas where policy owners have questions:


Are bursting pipes covered?

This is an important point, particularly in areas where freezing temperatures are an issue. Hidden pipes that freeze and burst are of significant concern. Much of the time, these damages are covered by commercial property policies.
Slightly cracked and broken pipes that result in gradual damage pose a separate problem. These damages, whether the result of normal wear and tear or due to owner negligence, are commonly excluded from insurance coverage.
Floods are also a common exclusion on commercial property policies. Sometimes property owners purchase additional coverage specifically for floods.


Imagine that one of your pipes bursts over a weekend when no one is there to notice the water. Floors, carpeting, walls, cabinets, and anything on the floor could be completely soaked before anyone notices. In this case, insurance coverage is absolutely necessary for complete water cleanup.

Learn About Risks and Prevention

Once you have an appropriate water damage insurance policy in place, discuss potential risks and preventative steps you can take. Insurance representatives are often valuable resources with suggestions specific to the Salt Lake City, UT, community and specific to your type of business.

Property Owner's Response to Coronavirus Exposure

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready to help with coronavirus.

Each day brings new information about coronavirus exposure. The spread of covid-19, a respiratory disease, happens quickly and easily, passing from people who are up to six feet apart from each other. Commercial property owners and apartment building owners in Salt Lake City, UT, must understand the risks involved if a tenant becomes infected.

Pre-Exposure Steps

Preparation is a key step in minimizing daily operation disruptions. Most experts recommend taking precautionary steps while avoiding spreading panic throughout their properties.

Some examples of steps to take include:

• Developing a pandemic response plan
  
• Posting reminders of best practices, such as washing hands and wearing masks when sick
  
• Providing access to soaps and hand sanitizers in common areas
  
• Hiring professionals with coronavirus cleanup training to routinely disinfect high traffic areas
  
  
  

Most of these are steps that commercial property owners should be taking anyway, so the steps can be implemented without adding to nervousness about coronavirus exposure.

Pandemic Response Plan

Eventually, an employee or tenant may be exposed to or infected by the virus. When this happens, property owners refer to their pandemic response plan. This plan should include how to communicate with property tenants and anyone who may have been exposed. For apartment owners, it's important to understand the rights of tenants and act within federal tenant laws and covid-19 cleanup guidelines.

Professional Cleanup Response

Once a commercial property has been exposed to the virus, it may be necessary to hire professionals to thoroughly disinfect the property with special attention given to high-traffic areas. Commercial property cleanup professionals are working to purchase the FDA-approved disinfectants and the appropriate personal protective equipment to avoid further exposure and spread of the virus. There's still more to learn about how to carry out coronavirus cleanup, and professionals have access to CDC recommendations.

Communication With Tenants

As a commercial property owner, it's important to let your Salt Lake City, UT, tenants know that you're taking precautions to limit coronavirus exposure. Be sure to mention your efforts to reduce the spread of the virus and to respond immediately to potential exposure.

SERVPRO's Electronic Claims Services

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded hall.

When you need your agent to run an insurance claim, much of the work is completed and stored electronically. A great software system consists of much more than a virtual storage file, however. SERVPRO offers an electronic inventory of claims information and makes it available to insurance companies, agents, and adjusters. How does this help you, the homeowner?

• The detailed paperwork process is handled more quickly.
  
• Information is shared between appropriate professionals without delay.
  
• The computer system may catch errors that humans missed.
  
• Administrative costs are kept lower.
  
  

When your property has been affected by natural disasters or manmade damages, you need to get the repairs and reconstruction sorted out as quickly as possible. This inventory system helps make that possible. Take a closer look at some of these benefits:

Efficient Paperwork Completion

In the past, paperwork was completed and shared by hand. For an insurance claim to be filed, older records had to be tracked down and pulled out. The results were often sent through the mail to other professionals or to homeowners. This process exposed the claims paperwork to risks of being lost, damaged, or mishandled. Electronic filing is much faster, and the results are almost instantly shared with all relevant parties.

Improved Levels of Accuracy

It's all too easy for mistakes to happen when claims are processed. The risk of errors increases with each pair of hands that adds or subtracts information to and from the claim. While your insurance agent probably watches very carefully to catch any errors, it's nice to know that the computer system is also running through the document to track down mistakes.

Decreased Paperwork Costs

Electronic storage systems cut out the need for large warehouses or dusty basements of filing cabinets and shelves of boxes. The electronic claims system also reduces the need for stamps, envelopes, and paper. While digital documents haven't completely eliminated the need for paper copies, it has cut down administrative expenses.
SERVPRO property damage cleanup and repair professionals work closely with insurance companies to streamline and improve the exchange of information for each insurance claim. Look for positive results when your Salt Lake City, UT, property is damaged because of storms or manmade disasters.

Understanding the Fire Remediation Process

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire damage.

A fire in your home in Salt Lake City, UT, can cause a lot of damage. Fire restoration experts start by repairing the damage, and then they can rebuild your property.

Four steps you can expect the technicians to take once they arrive at your home.

1. Assessment

The first thing specialists have to do is get a clear picture of the extent of the damage. They walk through your home, making note of fire, water and smoke damage that needs to be mitigated. At the end of this visit, they compile an itemized list of tasks and can give you a general cost and timeline for completion.

2. Removal

Before technicians can repair salvageable items, they must remove everything that needs to be thrown out. Even if they are able to save something, it still needs to be removed so that they can work on repairs. Personal belongings must be removed and either set aside for cleaning or discarded.

3. Cleaning

After all destroyed materials have been removed, a thorough cleaning is in order. A big part of fire restoration is cleaning not only the soot and smoke left by the fire but also the water damage that happened from the fire being put out. Every surface must be disinfected before new materials can be brought in.

4. Restoration

Once damage cleaning is done, technicians can build on the existing structure to restore your property. New drywall can be added and painted to match the rest of the area. New tile and flooring can be installed. Finally, items that were able to be restored can be moved back into the space.

A home fire may cause a lot of damage, but most homes can be repaired. The fire restoration process starts with assessment and mitigation. Then technicians take the steps necessary to return your home to its former glory.

Do You Need Hurricane Insurance

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Hail damage is very common after a sever storm.

Depending on where you live in the country, the months from June to November can be fraught with concerns over hurricanes and other severe storms. After suffering heavy financial losses because of recent hurricanes, primary insurance and reinsurance companies looked for ways to keep their losses down. If you're a business owner in Salt Lake City, UT, you should understand what your storm insurance policy covers:

• Damage done to any buildings on your property
• Some wind-related damages on your grounds
• Vandalism and theft that occur because of the storm
• Damaged equipment, fixtures, furnishings, and supplies
  
  

Most property insurance coverage does not include these items without special riders. It's important to talk about your risks and potential losses with your insurance agent.

Hurricane and Wind/Hail Deductibles

In addition to determining whether you should boost your storm insurance, make sure you understand the two kinds of wind-related deductibles: hurricane and wind/hail. Depending on where you live and other factors, one of these deductibles may be better for your purposes than the other type. For example, if you live in "hurricane country," hurricane deductibles tend to be higher than wind/hail products. Discuss your option with your insurance agent.

Costs of Reconstruction

Other thing to consider as you research the most appropriate insurance coverage for your commercial property is what it will cost to get your buildings back into working condition after a major storm. Get more information about water damage mitigation, storm damage repair, and reconstruction costs by talking to storm damage cleanup and repair experts.

When the Storm Passes

If you've already suffered storm-related damages, it's best to wait until the winds die down before trying to clean up or make repairs. Once the storm has passed, reach out to local emergency response professionals and property damage emergency response teams to prevent further destruction, including secondary damages. Finally, contact your Salt Lake City, UT, insurance provider to make sure you have an appropriate amount of coverage.

Inspect Your Commercial Building and Keep It Weatherproof

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

Removing leaves from gutters can prevent water damage after a storm in Salt Lake City, UT.

Is your Salt Lake City, UT, business in a building that is comfortable, dry and weatherproof? If so, thank the heroes responsible for exterior maintenance. It is their job to keep your building maintained. Proper maintenance ensures that the weather stays outside where it belongs.

Damage to the exterior lets in the weather. Some, like broken windows, is obvious and demands immediate attention. Other damage starts tiny and grows into serious maintenance problems.

Examples of minor damage are:

• Small holes in siding
• Loose or cracked windows
• Gaps around vents, pipes and other exterior features
• Damaged masonry

Routine Inspections Are the Key to Preventive Maintenance

Every building has problems that are easy to overlook. They don’t interfere with the business operation, so they go unreported. The first step in fixing them is finding them. The best way to identify them is through a complete building inspection. Think of this as a close inspection of the building with the help of a checklist. Here are some of the tasks that an exterior maintenance inspection might include:

1. Inspect the roof. Look for areas where the roofing material needs repair. Check the vents, air conditioner and other features attached to the roof to make sure they won’t leak. Check the gutters and downspouts. Make sure that rainwater will flow down and away from the building.
2. Inspect the walls. Look for openings that might let water in. A structural engineer can help you determine if there is water damage.
3. Inspect the masonry. Areas that are failing might provide a path for water to get inside. Bring in a professional to check the situation.
4. Inspect the doors and windows. Make sure that they stop the flow of air and water.

Some exterior maintenance problems can’t wait.

One of these is water damage. There are local water damage restoration specialists ready to come to your aid. They are just a phone call away.

The Benefits of Working With Cutting-Edge Restoration Professionals

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in Salt Lake City, UT home.

Disasters can strike suddenly, especially when nature is involved. When your Salt Lake City, UT, home is part of a community event, there's a very good chance that one of your first calls will be with insurance professionals. It's only natural that you'll feel anxious to get repairs and restoration resolved as quickly as possible. Just remember that your insurance agent may be trying to complete your insurance claim as well as claims for your neighbors and other clients.

There's a Long Trail of Paperwork To Follow

When filing an insurance claim, the agent must go through a lot of reports, assessments, descriptions of damage, and other relevant numbers. In the past, this meant sifting through hard copies of paperwork and maybe traveling to other locations where similar disasters hit. Today, an electronic claims service, offered by SERVPRO, an emergency cleanup and restoration provider, makes the process much easier. With access to electronic records, agents have access to:

• Professional assessments of damage
• Quick verification using pictures, lists, and videos
• Storage of visual proof of damages
• Communication with adjusters and other professionals

Basically, SERVPRO's electronic claims system keeps files at the fingertips of the insurance agent, speeding up the claims process. This is great news for you, the homeowner.

Collaboration Is Convenient and Fast Through an Electronic Claims Service

Typically, homeowners submit their information to their insurance representative and then wait for answers before they can begin repairs. An electronic claims system offers up-to-date information and shares that with the various professionals involved in completing the claim.

This quick access means each member of the claims process can complete their specific area of work and then submit it into the system. As adjustments are made, the agent can provide you with progress as it happens.

How Fast Do You Want To See Results?

When your home is affected by a community-wide disaster or a disaster limited to your property, contact a restoration company, such as SERVPRO, using modern technology to help agents complete each insurance claim and to provide cutting edge restoration results. This choice may have a huge effect on how quickly you can proceed with repairs.

Can I Afford Mold Removal and Cleanup?

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Basement in Salt Lake City, UT suffered water damage and flood cuts were performed to remove all damage materials to avoid mold growth.

When you discover mold in your Salt Lake City, UT, home, get to work immediately to get rid of the problem. Mold spreads easily and quickly because spores travel on the air, on clothing, and even on pets or family members. Respond quickly to keep the costs of remediation and repairs as low as possible. Unfortunately, professional mold removal can get into the thousands or tens of thousands if the problem is significant.

Costs of Mold Removal and Cleanup

How Do the Costs Break Down?

The costs may seem daunting, but there are several factors that influence how much you'll end up paying. Keep these in mind as you calculate your removal and cleanup budget:

• Certified Industrial Hygienists have earned an industry-approved degree and certifications. They provide lab results and a thorough report of their assessments.
• Mold remediation professionals have the training and specialized equipment to treat affected areas while preventing spores from traveling and spreading. These technicians will handle most of the work involved.
• Mold removal and cleanup efforts involve removing affected materials, cleaning and disinfecting throughout the area, replacing materials that have been too badly damaged, and using a HEPA filtration system to contain spores. Black mold removal may require extra steps to ensure safety.
• Remediation costs are the most likely to vary and are dependent on the extent of the damage.
  

In general, the best way to keep remediation costs down is to catch the problem early and take steps right away to be sure spores and mildew don't spread. You may feel tempted to handle cleanup on your own, but the potential for spreading spores and causing further damage is high.

Will Your Insurance Cover the Costs?

Some homeowners' insurance policies cover the cost of repairs and remediation, but others don't. If the mold is the result of a slow leak that should have been addressed, mold removal probably won't be covered. A burst pipe that occurs suddenly may be covered. The best way to be certain about your coverage is to ask your insurance agent for specifics.

Steps for Basic First Aid for Burns

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

Fires often lead to injuries in addition to fire damage to your building in Salt Lake City, UT.

If a fire breaks out in your commercial property in Salt Lake City, UT, the ideal scenario is everyone getting to safety without getting hurt. Unfortunately, in addition to fire damage to your building, fires often lead to injury. When that happens, it helps to have a basic understanding of first aid for burns.

Basic First Aid For Burns In Commercial Fire

Minor Burns

The first thing you want to do is determine how bad the burn is. A minor burn is characterized by several symptoms:

• Red skin
• Small blisters
• Small size
• Minor pain

There are a few things you can do to administer minor burn first aid. To start the healing process and relieve pain, you cool the burn and then apply lotion and a clean bandage. An over-the-counter pain reliever can also reduce some of the symptoms.

Major Burns

Just like most fire damage, major burns require professional attention. Call 911 if the victim has a large burn that looks charred or deep. While waiting for medical professionals to arrive, there are a few first aid tasks to help make the burn victim more comfortable and to help him or her remain calm. Remove jewelry and other restrictive items. Monitor the person's breathing and watch for signs of shock, such as shallow breathing or an unusually pale complexion. You don't want to submerge the burn in water, but it is a good idea to cover the area with a clean cloth to protect it from further harm or infection. If possible, keep the burned area elevated above the heart to help prevent swelling and lessen pain.

You can ease a burn victim's suffering with items available in most first aid kits. If the burn is small and consists of only red skin and blisters, you can take care of it yourself. Fire damage experts recommend calling in professional help, however, whenever the burn is bad enough that medical attention is necessary.

Why Your Water Heater May Be Creaking and Groaning

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Check your water heater to avoid water damage in your Salt Lake City, UT home.

If you hear bumps in the night and creaking moans coming from your basement, there is a slight chance that your home is haunted, but an even greater chance that your water heater is just acting up. Before you sprinkle garlic around the perimeter of your home, contact your Salt Lake City, UT, water cleanup team, or perform a few quick tests on your heater yourself to see if maybe it's not the old tank that's giving off the creepy vibes.

Troubleshooting Water Boiler Issues

There are a few telltale signs of a troubled water furnace for which you can look that can help you diagnose the issue and therefore identify a viable solution. Some such signs are as follows:

• You have no hot water or not enough hot water.
• The hot water is far too hot.
• The water smells funny or is discolored.
• Your water heater bangs, pops, gurgles, screeches, screams, shrieks or makes any other unsettling noise.

If you notice one or more of the first three signs in conjunction with the strange noises, rest easy knowing that your hot water tank is your ghost. Now that you know the furnace is to blame, however, what can you do about it?

Repairing a Troubled Water Tank

The requisite repair all depends on the issue. If the issue is lack of or insufficient hot water, you may need to check the gas pilot or the electrical connection. You may also want to check the dial on your heater to make sure that it's set to a sufficient temperature.

If the water is too hot, again, check the temperature gauge. It may be turned way up. If that's not the problem, and if you hear boiling noises coming from within the heater, the pressure relief valve may be improperly installed.

If the water has a strange odor, the source of the problem may be your water source and not the water tank. Iron, copper and discoloration often cause discoloration and bad smells.

Finally, if noise is the only complaint, there may be sediment trapped at the bottom of your tank. If that's the case, perform a water heater flush and see if that doesn't correct the issue.

Preparing Your Business for an Impending Flood

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

This business suffered flooding and drying equipment were necessary to speed up the drying process.

When the flooding starts, it is usually too late to protect from flood damage. The best time to prepare for a flood is before it occurs, giving you time to purchase supplies and secure your facility from disaster. The reason preparation is so important for businesses is that poor planning can lead to extended business interruption after the storm passes. Therefore, to give your business the best chance at a speedy recovery, there are a few things you should do in preparation of floodwaters.

3 Ways To Prepare Your Business From Flooding

1. Protecting Doors and Windows

Storm damage can do significant harm to your building due to high winds alone, but a flood increases the risk of damage exponentially, especially for doors and windows. The best way to protect these vulnerable points of entry is to barricade them with sandbags. The bags should be stacked a little higher than storm predictions to ensure protection.

2. Securing Furniture

Flooding can turn furniture, interior and exterior, into projectiles. You may want to weigh or chain down any outdoor furniture, and interior office furniture may be best moved to a higher level than ground level.

3. Moving Fragile Equipment

Computers and other fragile electronics and equipment should also be moved to a higher floor to ensure functionality after the flood. While water levels may not reach desk height, it is possible for them to reach outlets, sending a surge through your equipment and potentially ruining it.

While you can try every preventative measure out there, it is still possible that a flood will damage some part of your business, which is why you should consider your options for mitigating loss after a flood. A disaster restoration specialist in the Salt Lake City, UT, area can help you prepare an emergency action plan that goes into effect when a disaster occurs, speeding up the restoration process.

Flooding can cause significant damage to a business, and it may even result in extensive business interruption. To help counteract the potential damage and risk, a business can take the above steps, ensuring some level of protection during a disaster.

Ice Dam Management 101

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage on ceiling in Salt Lake City, UT.

When you think of winter hazards, sleet, snow, icy roads and frigid wind chills may come to mind. In addition to these concerns, business owners in Salt Lake City, UT, may need to add an ice dam to their winter perils list. Because these formations can cause significant destruction inside your property, it’s important that you understand both how they develop and specific issues inside your building that may contribute to the potentially damaging problem.

Ice Dam Formation

Heat escaping into the attic can cause the roof to warm and snow to melt. External conditions may then cause melting snow to refreeze, potentially trapping water under a layer of ice. This entrapment can be problematic if water seeps into your building and causes damage.

Prevention Strategies

Although you may not be able to prevent snow and ice formation on your roof, you can take several proactive measures to help prevent an ice dam from forming:

• Ensure adequate attic ventilation
• Verify bathroom exhaust exists through the roof
• Maintain clean gutters

Reducing heat seepage within your attic is an essential prevention strategy. To help accomplish this, your attic ductwork should be properly ventilated and free of leaks.

Because a clog can prevent proper water drainage, obstructed gutters may cause water to pool and freeze along the edge of your roof, exacerbating your dilemma. Routinely inspecting and cleaning your gutters can help alleviate this problem.

Water and Mold Damage

Ice dams can be particularly destructive if trapped water leaks into your building and causes water damage. Because mold thrives in moist environments, a water leak can also increase the risk of black mold growth that necessitates extensive mold cleanup endeavors. For this reason, it’s essential that you inspect your building and address issues that may facilitate dam development.

A Manageable Problem

Winter can present numerous challenges, many of which you have little control over. You can, however, take proactive steps to reduce the risks of ice dam formation, water damage and mold contamination.

Keeping Your Break Room Fridge Mold-Free

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Spoiling foods are ideal conditions for mold growth in your break room fridge.

The moisture inside your break room’s refrigerator and the presence of spoiling foods are ideal conditions for mold growth. Since you don’t have much control over the fridge’s condensation, you need to address the expired foods. Taking preventative measures beforehand decreases chances of facing bigger problems later. Here are four steps that can be taken to prevent fridge mold.

4 Steps to prevent fridge mold

1. Be Accountable

Everyone who uses the communal refrigerator should keep track of what they put in, when they put it in, and when it needs discarding. If employees have difficulty remembering, they can put date labels on each item. By following this simple suggestion, mold growth may be discouraged.

2. Perform a Weekly Purge

Choose one day each week to examine the contents of the fridge and get rid of anything that doesn’t pass inspection. Make sure to sanitize afterwards, as disinfecting the fridge is important for avoiding mold growth. Schedule this housekeeping every Friday so nothing goes bad over the weekend. No one wants to return to work on Monday and deal with fridge mold.

3. Pay for Sterilization

If employees feel that cleaning out the fridge isn’t included in their job description, consider hiring a cleaning service to tackle the task. It may be a costly expense, but it will be worth it. Footing the bill for routine cleanings is better than having a mold outbreak.

4. Know Who To Contact

If the mold prevention measures you took didn’t work, make sure to contact your mold removal specialists in Salt lake City, Utah. They have the expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to quickly remove mold as well as other hidden sources that may be mold-infested.

Getting a whiff of that dreaded mold smell and later discovering fridge mold can be overwhelming and scary for employers. Follow the above steps to be proactive in your fight against mold rather than simply reactive after its formation.

How To Avoid Space Heater Fires

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Space heaters can be a leading cause of fire damage in your home in Salt Lake City, UT.

A space heater can provide extra warmth. It can also save on heating bills by allowing you to set the thermostat in your home in Salt Lake City, Utah, on low while still heating the specific rooms you are using to a comfortable temperature. A burned space heater doesn't help you, though. To avoid space heater fires, you need to follow a few simple tips.

Tips to avoid space heater fires

Give It Space

The heating elements on a space heater give off an impressive amount of heat, but they can turn into a fire hazard quickly if they are crowded. There are several guidelines to make sure you have enough space around your heater:

• Maintain radius of three feet from flammable objects
• Don't use near combustible substances, such as gasoline
• Keep children and pets away from heater
• Set it on a level surface so it doesn't topple over

Turn It Off

To avoid having a burned space heater when you leave the room, remember to turn it off. Space heaters should never be left unattended while they are on, especially if you leave the house altogether. In fact, it's a good idea to unplug the heater when you are not at home. Keep an eye out for a frayed or otherwise damaged cord.

Keep It Clean

Keep your space heater clean to minimize fire risk. Dust and other debris can turn a functioning space heater into an electric fireplace in a hurry. Replace filters regularly according to the manufacturer's recommendation so that dirt does not infiltrate the heating mechanism. Follow maintenance instructions so that it not only lasts a long time but also does not become a safety issue.

A burned space heater can turn convenience into a nightmare. By following these simple guidelines, you can increase your creature comforts while still keeping you and your family safe. To avoid having to call for fire cleanup with a restoration company, choose a space heater that is safe and use it safely.

How To Keep Mold Growth at Bay After Residential Flooding

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Flood cuts are performed to avoid mold damage after a flooding in a residential home in Park City, UT.

Recovering from a flood in Park City, Utah, can be a stressful experience as you work quickly to salvage and restore the affected parts of your home. While you race to save valuable items, mold can develop across the house and become an even greater problem. Some areas are especially prone to mold growth:

• Wooden furniture and other porous surfaces
• Microwaves, washers, dryers, and other home appliances
• Insulation and drywall

By prioritizing some steps of flood recovery, you can stop mold from becoming a nuisance, make the recovery process much easier to complete, and avoid a lengthy mold removal process altogether.

Steps to avoid mold growth after residential flooding 

Remove Standing Water First

Because any area with stagnant water poses an increased risk of mold growth, it is crucial to remove any leftover water from the house as quickly as possible. Ideally, you should clear the house of sitting water within 24 hours of the initial flooding to minimize mold damages and make the rest of your recovery work simpler.

Focus on the Floors

Flood water can easily seep below the surface of your floors and create large areas of mold beneath them if not properly dried. Depending on the type of floor affected, you may be able to save carpets and other porous surfaces if you can treat them quickly enough. A water damage restoration company can help you decide whether a floor needs repair or replacement.

Keep an Eye out for Growth

No matter how well you attend to water damage, your house will remain at a heightened risk for mold growth following a flood. As you settle back into your home, stay watchful for mold, especially in dark, warm places. If left untreated, these small patches of mold can quickly spread spores throughout other parts of the house, putting a damper on your restoration efforts.

If your home sustains water damage after flooding, work quickly to minimize the extent of the destruction. Eliminate standing water, treat flooring materials immediately, and watch for the growth of mold. Contacting a professional for help can make the recovery process easier.

Don’t Let a Broken Pipe Burst Your Bubble

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen flooded and ceiling colapsed in Salt Lake City home.

When a pipe breaks in your home, you often find yourself dealing with a huge mess. Bursting pipes involve so much more than the break itself; you also have damage from the expulsion of water to contend with in the aftermath. Instead of panicking, however, just take a deep breath and follow these tips to take control of the situation.

Put Safety First

Before anyone can fix the broken pipe or begin the clean-up process, you need to take a few steps to keep everyone safe up until help arrives and while repairs are underway.

• Turn off electrical breakers that may be impacted by the escaping water.
• Shut off the main water valve to keep any damage from worsening.
• Relieve pressure that may still be in the pipes by turning on a faucet.

Failing to address these safety concerns could result in electrocution or more excessive flooding and damage to your belongings. You have to act quickly and decisively to protect yourself and your home before you can move forward with repairs.

Assess the Damage

Depending on the amount of liquid released by the bursting pipes, you can use towels to begin mopping up any standing water on surfaces. Remove your furniture and other belongings from the affected area to prevent further deterioration. Understand that visible wetness is only on the surface. It’s more than probable that you’ll be dealing with harm done by water that has seeped down into walls and flooring, as well.

Fix the Problem

A Salt Lake City, Utah, professional restoration service can best assist you with ensuring that all water damage caused by the break and any lingering moisture is found and repaired appropriately. It’s imperative to get them in quickly to avoid mold growth or secondary damage to your home’s structure. Once the immediate risk to your house is mitigated, you can focus on the logistics of taking care of the original leak source. Bursting pipes can be daunting, but you don’t have to face the recovery alone.

Minding the Gaps: Finding Good Storm Coverage

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Hail can damage your roof during a storm in Salt Lake City, UT.

If your commercial property in Salt Lake City, Utah, is frequently beset by storms, your property insurance coverage is probably not sufficient to pay the costs of the flood restoration services you will likely need at some point. You need storm insurance. Even with the extra coverage, however, it is important to make sure that you pay close attention to the exclusions listed in your policies. Only by filling in all the gaps that other policies leave do you get the best coverage possible.

Are you sufficietnly covered by insurance?

Flood Damage

Most floods caused by natural disaster or other extreme circumstances aren't covered by general commercial property policies. You will need flood insurance to protect yourself from having to pay out-of-pocket expenses like the following:

• Water mitigation services
• Restoration costs
• Building inspection fees

After you pay your deductible, your storm insurance is likely to cover the bulk of your recovery expenses. Having a policy in place before storm season arrives is essential.

Hail Damage

If your storm coverage focuses on flooding, it may include exclusions for other damage that your building could sustain during a storm. Hail damage often accompanies violent thunderstorms, but some insurance policies don't cover the damage that a hail storm can cause. In this instance, you will need additional coverage to fill in the gap left by the exclusion.

Lightning Damage

When lightning strikes your building, it can cause quite a few problems. Other than raising the risk of fire, it may also short out your electrical system, leaving you without power regardless of how reliable your backup generator may be. If other systems, such as your building's plumbing or HVAC system, relies on the power, then you can see how expensive a lightning strike could become. Many policies exclude lightning damage for this reason. Your insurance company may offer rider policies to compensate, however.

When you are shopping for the best commercial insurance package, don't forget comprehensive storm insurance. One storm can cause extensive damage. It can give you peace of mind to know that you are protected.

Treating Burn Injuries in the Workplace

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Park City, UT.

Fire damage can result in large losses to your business' material assets in Park City, Utah. Along with those damages, there may be injuries to employees. Knowing how to provide burn first aid can be very beneficial in this situation.

After calling the appropriate local emergency services, here are four things you can do to help.

1. Stop the Burning Process

Once the injured person has been safely evacuated from the building, take them to a safe area and have them sit or lie down so the injury can be looked at. Be sure there is nothing still burning, such as hair or clothing, that can cause further injury. If it is safe to do so, remove any restrictive clothing or jewelry before the burned area swells.

2. Asses the Injury

Just as the fire damage to your business needs to be assessed, so does the injury to an employee. Check the person to see how many areas of his or her body have been burned. Look carefully for burns to the face, as these types of injuries can cause the person to have trouble breathing, and he or she may need special attention or rescue breathing.

3. Cover the Wound

If a first-aid kit is available, use burn dressings or slightly moist sterile gauze pads to cover the burned area. A clean cloth can be used if emergency supplies are not available.

4. Treat the Injured Person for Shock

Have the injured person lie down with his or her feet and, if possible, the injured area elevated above the level of his or her heart to help prevent shock. If the person is cold, cover him or her with a blanket or similar item. Have someone remain with the person until emergency services arrive.

Handling fire damage to your business in Park City, Utah, and having an injured employee is a stressful situation. A little bit of preparation and first aid learned beforehand can go a long way in keeping everyone calm and ensuring the best outcome.

How To Avoid Secondary Water Damage

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Avoid mold damage in your commercial business in Salt Lake City, UT.

A flood at your commercial property in Salt Lake City, UT, can cause a lot of damage. You may have to replace walls or flooring, and you may lose some equipment or important documents. If the problem is not remedied in a timely manner, however, these may be the least of your worries. Secondary damage occurs when flood damage is not properly addressed. If that happens, you may see black mold growth or extended moisture issues. You can avoid secondary water damage, however, by recognizing the causes and being proactive.

Possible Causes.

No one plans to let problems go unresolved. Failure to act is usually the result of lack of awareness or slow response. There are many situations that could lead to secondary water damage:

• Slow leak within wall that goes undiscovered for a long time
• High humidity in building
• Incomplete assessment of initial problem
• Ineffective or incomplete cleaning
• Failure to address problem at its onset

If water is allowed to permeate surfaces, not only can it destroy the structural integrity of that area of the building, but it can also become a breeding ground for black mold, which can affect the air quality inside.

Proper Prevention.

Prevention is key when it comes to mitigating water damage. Regular building inspections should be a part of your maintenance plan. As soon as a problem is discovered, you must call certified water restoration specialists to start the cleanup process. They have the training and equipment to assess, dry and clean your property in a timely manner. They can also test the humidity in your building and advise you on how to keep it at acceptable levels so that mold does not become a problem.

When you have water damage in your commercial property, do not hesitate to take care of it. Your acute attention and swift actions can help you avoid secondary damage like black mold and the spread of deterioration.

Keeping Your Break Room Fridge Mold-Free

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage can be found in your break room fridge in Salt Lake City, UT.

The moisture inside your break room’s refrigerator and the presence of spoiling foods are ideal conditions for mold growth. Since you don’t have much control over the fridge’s condensation, you need to address the expired foods. Taking preventative measures beforehand decreases chances of facing bigger problems later. Here are four steps that can be taken to prevent fridge mold.

Preventing Fridge Mold

1. Be Accountable

Everyone who uses the communal refrigerator should keep track of what they put in, when they put it in, and when it needs discarding. If employees have difficulty remembering, they can put date labels on each item. By following this simple suggestion, mold growth may be discouraged.

2. Perform a Weekly Purge

Choose one day each week to examine the contents of the fridge and get rid of anything that doesn’t pass inspection. Make sure to sanitize afterwards, as disinfecting the fridge is important for avoiding mold growth. Schedule this housekeeping every Friday so nothing goes bad over the weekend. No one wants to return to work on Monday and deal with fridge mold.

3. Pay for Sterilization

If employees feel that cleaning out the fridge isn’t included in their job description, consider hiring a cleaning service to tackle the task. It may be a costly expense, but it will be worth it. Footing the bill for routine cleanings is better than having a mold outbreak.

4. Know Who To Contact

If the mold prevention measures you took didn’t work, make sure to contact your mold removal specialists in Salt Lake City, UT. They have the expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to quickly remove mold as well as other hidden sources that may be mold-infested.

Getting a whiff of that dreaded mold smell and later discovering fridge mold can be overwhelming and scary for employers. Follow the above steps to be proactive in your fight against mold rather than simply reactive after its formation.

How To Avoid Space Heater Fires

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

Avoid space heater fires in Salt Lake City, UT.

A space heater can provide extra warmth. It can also save on heating bills by allowing you to set the thermostat in your home in Salt Lake City, UT, on low while still heating the specific rooms you are using to a comfortable temperature. A burned space heater doesn't help you, though. To avoid space heater fires, you need to follow a few simple tips.

Space Heater Fire Damage

Give It Space

The heating elements on a space heater give off an impressive amount of heat, but they can turn into a fire hazard quickly if they are crowded. There are several guidelines to make sure you have enough space around your heater:

• Maintain radius of three feet from flammable objects
• Don't use near combustible substances, such as gasoline
• Keep children and pets away from heater
• Set it on a level surface so it doesn't topple over

Turn It Off

To avoid having a burned space heater when you leave the room, remember to turn it off. Space heaters should never be left unattended while they are on, especially if you leave the house altogether. In fact, it's a good idea to unplug the heater when you are not at home. Keep an eye out for a frayed or otherwise damaged cord.

Keep It Clean

Keep your space heater clean to minimize fire risk. Dust and other debris can turn a functioning space heater into an electric fireplace in a hurry. Replace filters regularly according to the manufacturer's recommendation so that dirt does not infiltrate the heating mechanism. Follow maintenance instructions so that it not only lasts a long time but also does not become a safety issue.

A burned space heater can turn convenience into a nightmare. By following these simple guidelines, you can increase your creature comforts while still keeping you and your family safe. To avoid having to call for fire cleanup with a restoration company, choose a space heater that is safe and use it safely.

How To Keep Mold Growth at Bay After Residential Flooding

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

This kitchen suffered storm damage after flooding with dirty water.

Recovering from a flood in Park City, UT, can be a stressful experience as you work quickly to salvage and restore the affected parts of your home. While you race to save valuable items, mold can develop across the house and become an even greater problem.

Where to Find Mold Damage

Some areas are especially prone to mold growth:

• Wooden furniture and other porous surfaces
• Microwaves, washers, dryers, and other home appliances
• Insulation and drywall

By prioritizing some steps of flood recovery, you can stop mold from becoming a nuisance, make the recovery process much easier to complete, and avoid a lengthy mold removal process altogether.

Remove Standing Water First

Because any area with stagnant water poses an increased risk of mold growth, it is crucial to remove any leftover water from the house as quickly as possible. Ideally, you should clear the house of sitting water within 24 hours of the initial flooding to minimize mold damages and make the rest of your recovery work simpler.

Focus on the Floors

Flood water can easily seep below the surface of your floors and create large areas of mold beneath them if not properly dried. Depending on the type of floor affected, you may be able to save carpets and other porous surfaces if you can treat them quickly enough. A water damage restoration company can help you decide whether a floor needs repair or replacement.

Keep an Eye out for Growth

No matter how well you attend to water damage, your house will remain at a heightened risk for mold growth following a flood. As you settle back into your home, stay watchful for mold, especially in dark, warm places. If left untreated, these small patches of mold can quickly spread spores throughout other parts of the house, putting a damper on your restoration efforts.

If your Park City home sustains water damage after flooding, work quickly to minimize the extent of the destruction. Eliminate standing water, treat flooring materials immediately, and watch for the growth of mold. Contacting a professional for help can make the recovery process easier.

Clean, but Still Dirty

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

This stairwell needed some drying after suffering water damage in Salt Lake City, UT.

Many business owners in Salt Lake City, UT, incur heavy losses because they don't clean up their water issues. That doesn't mean they're lazy, it just means that they don't have the knowledge necessary to do a complete recovery. You could also be in danger if you have suffered water damage of any type, including:

• Broken pipes
• Flooding
• Leaks

Black Mold is Secondary Damage

Black mold is one of the reasons that it's important to have your water damage repair performed thoroughly. This nefarious organic pollutant loves high humidity. In fact, all it needs to start taking over your business's facilities is a little extra moisture. It uses the softened building materials as both food and habitat, creating whole colonies of mold. This is certainly unsightly and undesirable, but the real problem is the health hazard posed by mold. Exposure to the substance, especially over long periods of time, has been proven to cause detrimental health effects in humans. That's the last thing you want around in a workplace.

Structural Weakening

Mold isn't the only thing that likes wet buildings. In fact, improper drying might lead to infestations of much larger life forms, such as termites or rodents. Termites prefer to eat building materials that have been softened by water, whereas rodents find it much easier to chew through weakened woods. The good news is that, like black mold, it often takes these creatures a little time before they figure out that your structure is vulnerable. If you act quickly enough, you might be able to avoid a secondary damage pest problem entirely.

Not every business owner or facility manager in Salt Lake City, UT, who has water damage develops a secondary mold damage problem. However, it's usually difficult to tell whether or not you're at risk. Even if it seems like you've cleaned up the whole spill, there are still plenty of spaces where you might have lingering moisture and humidity, such as crawlspaces, insides of walls and around fixtures. It's usually better to inspect the area meticulously before calling your cleanup job finished.

What To Do With Your Belongings After a Flood

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Flood cuts performed after this basement flooded in Salt Lake City, UT.

You likely know that a flood and the black water that comes with it can damage your home, but what about your belongings? While some things can successfully undergo content cleaning, others may need to be thrown away.

After significant flooding in Salt Lake City, UT, the task of cleaning up can feel overwhelming.

These tips can help you stay organized: 

• Take pictures of the damage before you begin, for insurance purposes
• Prioritize items that you want to save
• Call in a professional cleanup crew
• Put objects that you can’t clean immediately in open bags
• Take it one step at a time

Debris

Many storms can bring hazardous debris to your yard and into your home. Before you can work on your belongings, you may wish to throw out this debris. Not only can it cause disease and mold, but throwing trash away first thing can give you a sense of accomplishment that can drive the rest of your efforts.

Porous Objects

Porous belongings, such as mattresses and pillows, should be thrown away. The black water from the flood can contain toxins that may never come out of these items. It’s better to be safe than seriously sick.

Air Drying

Whenever possibly, you should air dry your salvageable belongings. When the weather permits, open your windows and allow the air to work for you. This gentle drying process can help save more delicate belongings.

If you cannot open a window, you can use dehumidifiers throughout your home. These devices pull moisture from the air and can help dry even delicate objects. For most things, you should not use a hair dryer or other heated devices.

Bleach

You can clean nonporous items with disinfecting solutions, such as bleach. Remember that the flood water likely carried bacteria, so you want something strong with which to wash. This isn’t the time for gentle cleaners like essential oils.

Content cleaning after a flood with black water is no small feat. Be sure to call in a professional team in Salt Lake City, UT, if you need to, and always be sure to breathe and take it one step at a time.

After the Home Flood: The Threat of Secondary Damage

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

This kitchen suffered water damage and #SERVPRO used professional equipment to speed up the drying process.

Flooding in the home is a scary enough prospect in itself, but many fail to realize that simply removing the water is only half the battle. Floodwaters are capable of producing secondary damage such as black mold, a potential health hazard and a definite threat to any residence in Salt Lake City, UT. That’s why it’s vital to take immediate action when this type of disaster occurs. Quick removal of water diminishes the threat of extended high humidity, the condition which allows harmful mold to take shape.

Quick Removal Diminishes the Threat

Lasting Effects

While it’s certainly important to eliminate standing water when flooding occurs, it’s only the first step in a complete recovery process. Professional restoration is frequently requested for this purpose, as commercial technology allows both for rapid water removal and proper analysis of the situation afterward. The next recommendations will go toward preventing secondary threats such as:

• Rotted wooden building materials
• Growth of harmful black mold
• Warped or swollen flooring

Remember, floodwaters need not make direct contact with a surface in order to affect it, and not all signs of moisture remain visible to the naked eye.

Tools of the Trade

Any number of solutions may be employed to inhibit mold formation and other moisture-related issues. Many restoration teams utilize tools such as industrial air movers and high-strength dehumidifiers to ensure that the environment is totally free of unwanted moisture after a flood. Microbial growth begins quickly and is usually very difficult to address once a problem has begun, so make moves quickly should disaster strike.

Protect Your Investment

No one wants to pay for unnecessary services, but when it comes to your home, the investment’s worth it. Black mold resulting from high humidity often ends up costing homeowners much more than handling the problem correctly from the start, so don’t fall victim to secondary damage. If flooding should affect your home, consider calling in the pros—it may just be a case of paying a little now instead of paying a lot later.

Why Your Commercial Building Needs Flood Insurance

8/17/2019 (Permalink)

Drying equipment placed to speed up the drying process after suffering water damage in Salt Lake City, UT.

Many businesses in Salt Lake City, UT, think they are immune to the dangers of severe weather, but the fact of the matter is that disaster can strike anytime anywhere. Preparing your building in advance can save you a lot of time and money. One of the best ways to do this is by having the right flood insurance. Here are some things to know before confirming your policy though.  

3 Things to Consider For Commercial Flood Insurance.

The Benefits of Business Interruption Insurance

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in Salt Lake City, UT.

When a business in Salt Lake City, UT, sustains fire damage, bills associated with owning a business aren't suddenly put on hold. For many business owners, paying expenses after a fire can be extremely challenging. However, business interruption insurance can be useful to business owners in this situation for various reasons.  

3 Benefits of Business Interruption Insurance

How To Find the Right Smoke Detector for Your Home

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Dual - Sensor Alarm

In Order to Find the Right Alarm, You Need to Know the Various Types

Finding the right smoke detector for your Deer Crest, UT home is a key part of fire safety. If your home does not have the proper smoke alarm, your house could sustain severe fire damage and require a major fire cleanup.
In order to choose the right alarm, you need to know the various types. They include:

• Combination
  
• Photoelectric
  
• Ionization
  
• Dual sensor

Combination Alarm

A combination alarm typically includes both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Because carbon monoxide sensors do not last as long as smoke ones, combination alarms need to be replaced more frequently. However, they are great for homes that include an attached garage or fuel-burning appliances.

Photoelectric Alarm

A photoelectric alarm is ideal for detecting slow-burning fires, specifically electric fires or those in clothes and bedding. These detectors are less likely to go off accidentally, but they can be more expensive.

Ionization Alarm

An ionization smoke alarm detects small particles from quickly igniting fires such as those caused by grease or paper. Since they are fairly sensitive, you may want to avoid using them near kitchens.

Dual-Sensor Alarm

As its name implies, a dual-sensor alarm uses parts of both ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors. They can be costly, but they also provide great protection for the entire home.
There are several other factors you should consider when choosing a detector. If you don’t want to climb a ladder to test the battery every month, look for a device that can be tested via remote control. You may also want to choose a detector that is easy to clean.
Buying the right detector and regularly checking the batteries will help keep your loved ones safe in the event of a fire. The beeping smoke alarm should alert you to the presence of a fire before it spreads. You may thus be able to put out the fire before it destroys your home. However, if your house is badly burned, fire damage cleanup professionals should be able to restore the property.

Temporary Roof Damage Mitigation in Four Steps

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Set up tarps to cover holes in your roof

Temporary Roof Damage Mitigation

Roof damage mitigation is the work involved in reducing damage to the property during disasters. In some cases, the work you do to prevent wind damage to your Kimball Junction, UT, home before a storm hits leads to an insurance discount. Sometimes an inspection is required before you can qualify. However, if your roof has already been damaged, residential storm damage restoration professionals may complete temporary mitigation in a few steps.

Assessing and Documenting the Damage

The first step technicians take is inspecting the extent of the damage. You may also want to take photographs of the wind damage to the roof. The records from the technicians and your camera should be shared with the insurance company as evidence for y our claim. If possible, provide some pictures of the condition of your home before the storm.

Removing Storm Debris

If there are tree branches or other storm debris on top of your home, storm restoration technicians clean up the mess. They may also trim up any trees or bushes that pose further risk.

Setting Up Tarps To Cover Holes

Technicians work quickly to cover roof damage, such as holes, with tarps, plywood, and hardware. They'll lay out the tarp to provide a wide barrier that keeps moistures out of cracks and holes. The plywood is often used to secure the tarp, so further wind damage can be avoided.

Preparing a Restoration Plan

Once further storm damage is prevented, technicians create a plan for repairing the damage to your roof. In addition to carrying out the necessary permanent repairs, the home remediation experts may help you prepare a plan for preventing future wind damage.

Prepare Today

Many Kimball Junction, UT, homeowners are concerned when heavy storms hit their neighborhoods. You don't have to worry when you have taken steps to prevent roof damage. Don't wait until a storm hits to get professional advice on preparing your roof. Find the information you need and ease your concerns today.

Proven Ways To Prevent a Commercial Fire

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

A business should have a clearly labeled evacuation route for employees

A commercial fire is one of the biggest calamities that can strike a business. Therefore, it makes sense to spend some time, money and energy on fire prevention. It is much easier to prevent a fire in the first place than it is to deal with the cleanup, expense and business interruption of a fire to a factory, retail building, office, hotel or other business entity. The principals of guarding against a business fire have been known for a long time.

The Basics of Prevention

There are several basic steps every business should undertake to stand the best chance of avoiding a costly fire. These include the following:

• Every company should schedule a visit from the fire department in Park Meadows,UT
  
• It should have a plan in place
  
• It should have fire equipment, such as alarms and extinguishers, on the premises
  
• A business should have a clearly labeled evacuation route for employees
  
  

These basics of fire prevention will go a long way toward making a place of business safe. They may be able to prevent or significantly reduce fire damage from a commercial fire. It would also be smart to know fire remediation experts in Park Meadows, UT, to contact in the event of a fire.

The Next Level of Prevention

For a company that has a lot of assets or that may be at a higher risk of a fire, there are more advanced precautions to take. Since employee knowledge is important, it makes sense for a company to have a safety officer. This person would be responsible for making sure a current plan is in place and that fire equipment has been inspected and is located in the right spots. An automatic sprinkler system could be a worthwhile investment, as well.

Fire prevention is an important thing to consider for most companies. With a little initiative from management and workers, a costly fire can be prevented.

What You Should Know About Sewage Damage in Your Commercial Building

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Call a professional restoration company to cleanup a sewer damage

Sewage Damage in a Commercial Building

One of the worst types of flooding that can happen in your commercial building in Jeremy Ranch, UT, is from sewage. Sewer cleanup needs to be handled appropriately as the water can be dangerous. Following these guidelines can help you prevent this type of issue, but if it does happen, knowing what actions to take can help save you time and money.

Take Precautions

The best way to prevent sewer backup is to take the proper precautions. Have someone come out and check the system regularly to make sure things are running smoothly. A flooded toilet usually happens because of a clog. Put signs up in the restroom asking patrons to dispose of sanitary napkins and other items in the trash instead of flushing them. Putting waste bins in the stalls can also make a big difference as they have somewhere to put unwanted items.

Protect Yourself and Others

Even if you take the precautions, sewage damage can still happen. When it does, you should consider calling a professional water restoration company to come help. Sewer cleanup can be tricky because the water is unsanitary and may contain bacteria or viruses. Be sure to clearly mark the contaminated area so that no one goes near it without the right safety equipment.

Document the Damage

No matter how small the flood is, you should take pictures. It is a good idea to be as prepared as possible for when you call your insurance company. Photographing the damage right away can also help you to get to the cleanup part faster, which is important for people's safety.

When it comes to sewer cleanup, you may be able to handle small overflows yourself, but you need to make sure that everything is disinfected appropriately. If you are at all uncomfortable handling contaminated water, you should call your local water restoration company in Jeremy Ranch, UT, to come help you.

Dealing with Fire and Water Damage After a Fire

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

You may be dealing with Water Damage as well after dealing with a Fire in your building.

If your business has experienced a fire that was put out by firefighters, you have more than just fire damage to contend with. A fire hose can easily deliver over 100 gallons of water per minute, sometimes even up to 1000 gallons per minute. While some of this will evaporate due to the heat of the fire, you’re likely to be left with significant water damage once the smoke clears. This can be disheartening, but an experienced fire restoration company in Salt Lake City, UT, should be fully equipped to handle damage from both fire and water.

When you contact a fire restoration specialist, the first thing the professionals will do is come to your building to assess the fire damage and make a plan for the cleanup. If the fire has burned large openings in your walls or roof, they will board these holes up and cover them with plastic sheeting. This prevents further damage from wind, rain or snow and ensures your property is safe from theft. Once these preliminary steps have been taken, the actual cleanup can begin.

Cleaning Up After a Fire

1. Removing the Water

Water removal is usually the first step in a post-fire cleanup. Submersible pumps are deployed if there is a large excess of water. Otherwise, powerful vacuums and industrial dryers are used to completely dry out the area.

2. Soot and Smoke Removal

Once everything is dry, soot and smoke are scrubbed from the interior services. This process can include wet-cleaning carpets, foam cleaning furniture and ultra-sonic cleaning glass, plastic, rubber, metal or ceramic objects in hard-to-reach places.

3. Repair and Restoration

The final step is the removal of damaged materials. Burnt drywall and flooring are replaced with new materials and restored to pre-fire condition. Once the fire restoration company in Salt Lake City, UT, has cleaned or replaced all the materials affected by water or fire damage, your business will be ready to reopen.

The Growing Conditions of Mold

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can grow anywhere. All it needs is some moisture and the right temperature

The Growing Conditions of Mold

Mold damage can be expensive to remediate. The fungus is known for being deep-penetrating, and once it is noticeable, it has likely already colonized in other areas of your home. Therefore, to mitigate the possibility of mold removal expenses, it is necessary to discuss and understand the conditions that lead to mold colonization so that they may be avoided.

1. Temperature

Mold and mildew growth occur in similar situations, but one of the conditions of their growth is a warm space. That is why you often find mildew in your bathroom or laundry room. It is also why mold develops in enclosed spaces. While some funguses can develop in cold or even frigid temperatures, most common house molds require warmth.

2. Environment

Mold damage is so destructive because of how and where it develops. Often, when you see mold, it has already been growing for some time. You may find it within wall cavities, air ducts, bathrooms or basements near the water heater. Mold loves dark and warm spaces.

3. Moisture

Mold growth, like all plant life, requires water or moisture to survive. Therefore, basements that are humid and dark are likely prone to fungal growth. Also, attic spaces or garages, where temperatures are high but air doesn’t circulate, produce an environment and moisture level conducive for mold development and colonization.

A mold remediation specialist in the Sugar House, UT, area can assess your property to determine any areas that may need mitigation. For instance, they may suggest installing a dehumidifier in your basement or more ventilation in your attic to reduce moisture levels and improve air circulation.

Mold damage can be costly to remediate, and therefore it becomes necessary to be proactive with your home. Understand the conditions that are likely to lead to mold development and then contact a professional to discuss your best options to avoid future problems.

How To Keep Moisture Out of Your Building During a Storm

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Rain damage can occur without warning, it may be necessary to contact storm restoration experts

How to Prevent Moisture from Entering your Building and Causing Damage

Rain damage from a storm i`n Park City, UT, can result in costly damage to the interior and exterior of your business. In order to protect your business, it can be valuable to know how to prevent moisture from entering your building and causing damage.

1. Create a Physical Barrier

In order to decrease the likelihood of water and mold damage to your building, it can be helpful to put a barrier between your building and the elements. A building envelope acts as a water-resistant cover and protects your business from strong winds and heavy rains. In order for the envelope to be of use, it’s often important to make sure the envelope is securely placed around your building before a storm hits.

2. Inspect Your Building Before the Storm

Rain damage can occur seemingly without warning, and it may be necessary to contact storm restoration experts to fix the damage. However, it’s often preferable to prevent damage from occurring. By inspecting your building before a storm, you are likely to notice if there are any loose shingles, small holes or other areas where water may be able to enter your building. Inspecting the building frequently will allow you to make the necessary changes that can help to prepare your property for a disaster.

3. Clear and Reposition Gutters

If your property’s gutters are clogged or are positioned too closely to your business, the likelihood of water damage and mold growth increases. In order to avoid black mold growth and other issues related to water damage, it can be useful to clear your business’s gutters before a storm. Moving your gutters to ensure the flow of water is not directed at your building’s foundation can also be helpful.

Though storms have the potential to cause major issues for a business, preventing moisture from entering the building can make damage less likely to occur. By creating a physical barrier, inspecting your property before a storm and clearing and repositioning your building’s gutters, you can help to keep your business safe from rain damage.

Keep Mold Out of Your Business

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Mold spores need moisture

Business owners and property managers may dread the possibility of mold in their facility because dealing with the tenacious fungus can be a very frustrating process. Depending on the type of mold you discover, your company may have to be closed while the spores are removed, and that can mean lost revenue. Rather than waiting for mold to strike your Salt Lake City, UT, building, why not be proactive and prioritize your mold prevention plans.

Five Life Requirements

Mold spores are floating around in the air in your business no matter how clean you keep the area. That is because there are over 100,000 types of mold that send spores out into the air every day; and one of the reasons the fungus spreads so easily is that typically, mold only requires four things to begin growing.

• Food
  
• Water
  
• Darkness
  
• A spot to root
  
  

Most companies have at least one area in their basement, storage closets, or backroom that fits all these critical points to sustain the fungi life cycle and encourage mold growth. That is why mold prevention can be critical.

One Water Source

You may have heard that water is the source of all life, and that can certainly be held as true for mold. A spore can sit in a dark room for years waiting for moisture to give it life. When a leaking pipe causes water damage, that individual spore can quickly grow and spread into an active colony that may cause serious problems for your company. Conducting regular inspections of storage areas, HAVC units, warehoused papers and boxes can help you prevent a fungus take-over.

Mold prevention is your best tool against the fungus, but if mold does begin to grow anywhere in your facility, contact a mold removal and remediation company to eliminate the stubborn growth. Remember, a single spore can quickly grow into a thriving colony in a matter of days.

Vital Tips on Getting Ready to Undertake the Fire Restoration Process

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Garage Fire in Park City, Utah.

Fire can be catastrophic, disastrous, and can claim lives and properties in Park City, UT. At times, failure to act accordingly causes the menace to spread and burn intensively. The poor response to fire disaster is due to lack of proper preparedness and adequate knowledge on how to handle such cases. It is, therefore, critical to have vital information concerning fire management and restoration to be able to handle it or even to prevent it from occurring so as not to lose valuable items.

Causes of fire

According to NFPA report, a fire gets reported at an interval of 25 seconds. The fire may be a home fire, structure fire, unclassified fire, or a highway vehicle fire, which has claimed more than 15% of the fire deaths. Fire can be caused by;

• Faulty electronics
• Household products which include electric blankets and mattresses
• Arson and juvenile fire setting
• Heating equipment and appliances, which cause commercial fire damage

Ignorance and poor installation of heating equipment cause home fires that claim many civilian deaths. It is advisable to ensure proper installation process of various appliances as it helps minimize chances of a fire occurrence. Smoke claims a thousand lives that succumb to death because of suffocation.

Fire damage restoration preparation

Fire safety equipment should be installed as a measure of securing the property and individual lives. In the case of fire in business and shopping malls, the fire apparatus assist a big deal in restraining it from spreading to other malls and reducing smoke smells. It is advisable to place the fire equipment in strategic positions where one can access without much struggle, which saves property owners from getting commercial fire damage problems. Raise fire alarms to alert fire marshals about the fire menace. Fire in business buildings can be catastrophic, and it should be extinguished immediately with the help of the locals and fire marshals. In the case of fire, whether at home or in the business places, one should get out of the building, but in an orderly manner. Keep a distance to avoid getting hit by the falling items.

Fire damage restoration

After a fire hazard, courage and patience are necessary to get everything up and running. If fire damage restoration is carried out in a timely and organized manner, much is recovered, and the place gets restored to its initial state. However, fire in business structures leaves a high-degree destruction, which NFPA advises to keep off the perimeters of such affected building. Below is a fire damage restoration process that should give great results if followed to the letter.

Prior preparation

Before committing to fire cleanup, one should wait for a thorough inspection by fire marshals to inspect the affected area, affirm that it is safe, and no other fire can occur in the vicinity. After the scrutiny, the fire marshals give a go ahead allowing one to proceed with the fire cleanup process. In case one had an insurance cover in case of fire in business place or fire in home, it is advisable to call the insurance company for a checkup before tampering with any item involved in the fire damage. After that, wear a protective gear which includes, gloves, nose mask, boots, and heavy duty apron for maximum protection against sharp objects and dust. The fire cleanup process is rigorous.

Smoke damage and soot damage

The smoke and the soot emanating from the fire damage leave spots and smoke smell on items, which can get worse if left for long and cause commercial fire damage. The smoke damage and soot damage should not be ignored. Clean the soot damage by using an absorbent mop or cloth and ensure you don’t damage the original texture of the fabric. To completely remove smoke damage odor, apply fresheners simultaneously until the smoke smell fades.After accomplishing this task, continue with the fire cleanup process in other areas.Leave no trace of smoke damage or soot damage.

Washing carpets and clothing

Fire in home makes clothing and household items victims of fire damage. Some clothes may be burned and should be dumped. The remaining clothes should be put outside for a careful selection and washing to remove the soot spots and smell. For a fire in home, use wet vacuum cleaners to remove the dust and spots from the carpet.

Fixing fire damage can be a rigorous activity, but it is worth the time and dedication to get the house back to its normal state. Preventing fire in home from occurring is better, but since nobody knows about the intriguing future, it’s better to get ready to handle the mess and prevent commercial fire damage.

SERVPRO of NE Salt Lake City/ Park City has the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business from Fire Damage. 

Preparing For Storm Damage to Your Home

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Are you ready?

Water is a necessary thing in any home. However, water can also cause problems. In some cases, flood water may arise unexpectedly and cause ice damage, roof damage and flooding. However, in other instances, it may be possible to prepare in advance for any potential wind damage, storm damage, roof damage and flooding. Hurricane damage is common. A hurricane's path may be apparent for days in advance. In that case, the homeowner can be prepared with help from a flood pump to help avoid flood damage, hail damage, contamination of ground water and issues like a roof leak. The same is true of issues during the winter. River flooding can cause problems such as ice damage, frozen pipes, a roof leak and even wind damage and hail damage. It's possible to minimize the problems from such issues and lessen the need for for roof repair, water restoration, home restoration and storm restoration.

What to do to prepare for Storm Damage in your property.

Consulting With a Professional

Consulting with a professional in advance can be helpful in the event of a problems such as ice damming, frozen pipes, ground water problems, hail damage, hurricane damage, roof damage, wind damage, storm damage, river flooding and a roof leak. A professional can suggest what to do in order to help speed up the process of water restoration, storm storm remediation, home restoration. In many instances, the professional can point out where steps can be taken to protect the ground water and avoid ice damage from flood water and ice damming. Professionals can also head off damage from frozen pipes, river flooding and an ice damn. With their help, it's possible to identify what issues may cause the need for roof repair from hurricane damage and even make sure that such issues are mitigated as much as possible so as to avoid additional problems from hail damage, an ice dam, roof damage, storm damage, ice damage, ice damming, a roof leak, storm damage and river flooding.

A Close Look 

It's always a good idea to have a look at all areas of the property. For example, flooding can result from nearby water that may otherwise go unnoticed. A nearby ice dam may cause ice damning that can result in flood water contaminating any ground water. Trees on the property can cause wind damage that can harm the entire house. All pipes should inspected periodically to avoid frozen pipes, ice damning and flooding. Flood water can get into all areas of the home in the event of hurricane damage. It's important to protect all areas of the home so that any storm remediation. home restoration, storm restoration, and ice damning repair can begin as soon as possible.

Securing the Property 

In the event of possible ice damming and other issues, the property should be secured well in advance. A flood pump can help avoid some problems that might otherwise need storm remediation, water restoration, roof repair, home restoration and storm remediation. Make sure any flood pump is working before the storm hits. This can help avoid an ice dam. Firmly secure all windows. Even the roof can be secured in order to help reduce the need for roof repair once the storm has passed. Tap the flood pump several times to be sure it's working. The pump helps keep excess water out of the home. The same is true of other potential issues with the property. For example, all doors should be firmly held in place. A door can cause problems that may mean the need for water restoration, storm restoration and storm remediation. Any excess water should be removed so as to keep away an ice dam from forming and keep the house fully safe. This allows the homeowner to reduce the need later for storm restoration and storm remediation. It also helps any homeowner feel secure in their own home once the storm has begun knowing they have taken the right steps.

SERVPRO of NE Salt Lake City/ Park City has the training and experience to help you prepare for Storm Damage and avoid further Damage to your home. 

Sewage Backup After a Flood

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Sewage Backup after a Flood

Cleaning up and restoring a business property after a flood in Salt Lake City, Utah is a long and difficult process, especially if torrential rain water has caused sewer backup. The resulting black water can cause extreme damage to your building. For this reason, your top priority after a flood should be getting your building thoroughly cleaned and properly restored as quickly as possible.

Dealing with Sewage Backup after a Flood

Black water has fecal matter mixed in from sewage, and therefore should be dealt with appropriately. 

You should take the proper safety precautions when cleaning up the building:

• Wear safety gloves
• scrub down every surface with clean water and disinfectant
• dispose of any items that may have absorbed the dirty water.

Extreme Damage

Water can lead to mold growth in as little as 24 hours, causing many expensive repairs. When mold is present, carpet and flooring must be ripped up, sheetrock should be torn out, and insulation should be replaced. While any kind of flood results in water damage, black water is more dangerous and requires a longer cleaning process before restoration can begin. It is often best to contact a professional restoration service to deal with the problem.

Dealing with the aftermath of a flood in Salt Lake City, Utah is never easy, but when dealing with black water, the process gets even harder. When dealing with sewage backup, always take safety precautions. Clean the rain water from the building as quickly as possible to reduce the amount of damage, but do a thorough cleansing for complete restoration.

SERVPRO of NE Salt Lake City/ Park City has Special training and equipment necessary to safely clean this type of contamination.

The Benefits of Electronic Claims Services

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

An insurance claim that is filed electronically is generated by a computer software system and then transmitted from cleanup and restoration professionals, such as SERVPRO, to an insurance agent and other authorized entities. Manual claims are filled out on paper and then sent to other professionals through the mail system. There are several reasons that many professionals prefer digital filing.

• The amount of time and resources used to perform administrative tasks are reduced. 
  
• Claims are checked for errors and similar issues before final submission. 
  
• Insurance professionals and underwriters can share information almost instantly. 
  
• The costs of physical supplies, such as paper, envelopes, and postage, decrease.
• The progress of a claim can be tracked from one professional to another with a clear electronic trail. 
  

After a major disaster, there are several important benefits to filing an insurance claim electronically. 

1. Property Owners Get a Quick Response

Property owners need claims completed quickly, so they can get back to their daily routines as quickly as possible. If the claim isn't filed electronically, it will have to travel through the mail where it can be lost or delayed. The paperwork may travel back and forth between parties before anything is settled. Electronic filing can be completed much more quickly.

2. Information Is Easily Accessible

Electronic files are easy to organize and easy to locate. Digital systems can be accessed from any location with internet service, and updates are ongoing. As professional restoration teams work, their progress is reported almost immediately. The same is true for insurance professionals. 

3. Records Are Safe From Elements

It can be challenging to keep paper documents and photographs dry during flooding or severe weather. Restoration professionals are well-aware of the problems with high levels of humidity and paperwork; completing reports electronically makes a lot of sense during natural disasters. 

Hiring Deer Valley, UT, restoration professionals with access to or participation in electronic claims services make it so that each insurance claim is completed more quickly and accurately. The chances of each claim finding resolution to the satisfaction of all parties is increased with reduced handling and increased monitoring.

Mold Damage and Homeowners Insurance: An Overview of What Is and Isn’t Covered

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Deer Crest, UT home

Although fungus growth and mold damage is a common problem that homeowners have to deal with, most homeowners insurance policies are limited in what they cover in these situations. It is a good idea to get in contact with your insurance policy to determine exactly what your plan covers. Here is some important information you should know in case you ever have to deal with a mold issue in your home in  Deer Crest, UT.

When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Remediation?

If you encounter a severe fungus growth issue in your home, you will require the help of mold remediation specialists to address the issue and restore your home back to its original state. Most insurance homeowners insurance policies will cover damage that occurs due to a cause that is already covered by your insurance including:

• Lightning
• Burst pipes
• Fire
• Roof damage from falling objects or heavy snow
• Water damage caused by broken household appliances

How Much Will Insurance Cover?

If you learn that your policy does cover damage caused by mold in the situations mentioned, you will then need to find out if your mold insurance has a cap. Since mold remediation can be very expensive depending on your specific situation, your insurance might have a strict cap on what they’ll pay no matter the cause of the fungus growth.

Can You Increase Your Chance of Being Covered?

One essential step is ensuring that you are covered is prove that the mold damage occurred as a result of a covered crisis. Make sure to take plenty of photographs of the damaged area and provide any pictures you might have of the area before it was damaged. Do not try to move or clean anything.

It can be frustrating trying to figure out what mold coverage your homeowner's insurance plan offers, especially when you’re in the midst of dealing with a mold issue. Set up a meeting with your insurance provider before a problem occurs so you can already know what to expect.

Minimize the Risk of Fire Danger in Your Home

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Install an adequate number of smoke detectors throughout your home

Fire is a word no one likes to think about, much less experience in his or her home in Dear Valley, UT. The loss of a home’s structure, contents, and harm to family members in a home fire is a devastating and traumatic experience. The good news is that risks can be minimized with careful fire preparation practices.

Your home and family are unique and so will your preparations be, but there are some basics that should be attended to in order to prevent a blaze from breaking out. Here are some of the basic items to attend to.

Basic Steps to Fire Preparation

• Make sure the furnace and water heater are in good working order and well-maintained
• Never operate space heaters or candles near curtains or other flammable materials or leave them unattended
• With your family, make a plan for escape in the event of a fire and make sure they all know how to call for help
• Use fire-safe procedures when cooking and don’t allow oil or grease near heating elements or allow to overheat
• Install an adequate number of smoke detectors throughout the home and keep working fire extinguishers at easy reach.

Involving Your Household

Fire safety is a family event. Together with household members, discuss the steps needed. Let everyone be involved in helping – get them excited about fire preparation and prevention rather than afraid of a potential home fire. Tailor your rules to each person as needed - Don’t allow a teenager to burn an open candle in their bedroom for instance. Make sure any family members who smoke do so safely, not smoking in bed and making sure all cigarettes and any matches are fully extinguished.

An emergency building restoration company in  Dear Valley, UT, can do much to help repair and salvage your home after a fire. But with proper fire safety practices, and participation from your family, a blazing disaster is much less likely to happen in your home.

Common Types and Causes of Mold Growth in Homes

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Black mold in a Sugar House, UT residence

Common Types and Causes of Mold Growth in Homes

There are a wide variety of causes for mold growth in homes in Sugar House, UT, and there are also various types of mold that tend to grow in homes. However, knowing what types of mold grow most commonly in homes and why they grow can help you know how to react.

1. Alternaria

One of the most common types of mold that grows inside homes is known as Alternaria. This type of mold grows due to levels of high humidity. Areas such as bathrooms are likely to have this type of mold due to the high amounts of moisture. Alternaria can also grow close to appliances, like toilets or sinks, that use water.

2. Penicillium

If there is water damage throughout a home and the water is not removed quickly and effectively, Penicillium is likely to grow. Penicillium tends to grow most frequently on materials made of cloth, such as clothing, curtains, rugs, insulation and carpet flooring, though Penicillium can grow elsewhere in the home. This type of mold is known for its green-blue color and its musty smell.

3. Black Mold

Though all mold growth is unpleasant, black mold is often a type of mold that can be particularly worrisome due to the amount of damage it can cause. As the name suggests, black mold, or Stachybotrys, is known for its dark color. Like most molds, black mold grows in damp, moist areas. However, while many molds can grow within a few days, black mold can take a week or more to grow and requires an environment that is consistently damp or humid.

Though you may feel worried at the sight of mold growth in your home, it can help to know what causes the most common types of mold to grow. If your home has been damaged by mold, it can be wise to contact mold remediation professionals.

How To Make a Water Damage Claim

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

Broken pipe in a Park City, UT bathroom

Bursting pipes and other mishaps that flood your home can add a lot of tasks to your to-do list. You must find the source of the water so you can minimize overall damage. You need to arrange for repairs from a certified water restoration company. You will also probably want to file an insurance claim. Filing a claim can be daunting if you don’t understand whether your policy covers the accident or what you are entitled to receive. The following information may help demystify the process.

Factors Affecting Claim Acceptance

Standard homeowners’ policies cover a myriad of sudden accidents that may lead to water damage. Whether your policy covers the damage to your home in Park City, UT, depends on several factors:

• Type and scope of policy
  
• Source of flooding
  
• Timing of damage onset
  
  

Some policies cover more than just bursting pipes. Coverage can vary by state or region and the amount of extended coverage you purchase. If floodwaters come from outside your home, particularly if you are in a flood plain, you may need an extra flood policy to cover the loss. If the damage was brought on by an ongoing problem rather than a sudden issue, your claim is more likely to be denied.

Tips for Minimizing Denials

The best way to avoid a claim denial is to understand your coverage and make sure it is adequate to protect you against the specific risks to your home. Your agent can explain your policy and suggest extended coverage when necessary. It is also important to keep up with a regular maintenance schedule for your home. Most gradual damage claims are denied because they indicate a lack of vigilance on the part of the homeowner. If you fix a broken pipe in a timely manner, for example, it is less likely to cause significant damage.

Hiring a restoration company that is Faster to Any Size Disaster can improve the chances of claim acceptance. Knowing your rights, as well as your responsibilities, makes filing after a bursting pipes incident easier.

Preparing for Fire Cleanup

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Soot damage after fire in a Salt Lake City, UT home

Steps to Restore Your Home After Fire Damage

A home fire can be a difficult event, but there are steps a homeowner can take to rectify smoke damage and related issues. The following procedures can help you restore your living space in Salt Lake City, UT, and return to your daily routine.

1. Smoke on the Walls and Ceiling

Some of the most obvious signs of a fire, even a minor one, are streaks of discoloration on interior surfaces. If the affected area is a relatively non-porous surface, such as a painted wall with a high-gloss enamel coating, then soot damage can usually be cleaned with a detergent or degreaser solution. Other fixed surfaces may require more extensive treatment, such as smoke-covered plaster. In these cases, it may be prudent to contact a qualified fire cleanup service.

2. Further Precautions

Removable items such as upholstery, furniture and appliances should be washed or laundered, preferably away from the home so as not to further spread smoke particles and odors. Replace filter components of your central heating and air system. Refrigerators and freezers may require additional smoke cleaning and inspection of food items. Any building materials with more than superficial damage, such as charring, may require professional attention.

3. Water and Fire

If emergency personnel had to put out the fire, or if a fire suppression sprinkler system was activated, there may be water damage in addition to the fire and smoke damage. Ensure that any nearby electrical systems are disconnected before inspecting them and beginning the cleanup process. Set up fans or dehumidifiers in order to move air through the building. Excess dampness can lead to mold or rot if left unresolved. Materials like drywall or carpet padding that have absorbed too much water may need to be replaced.

Smoke damage doesn’t have bring your life to a halt and hurt your property value. With attention and care, most belongings and home surfaces can be restored to their original condition.

Business Interruption Coverage: Minimizing Loss of Income After a Disaster

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Soot and debris after fire damage in a Deer Crest, UT commercial building

Business Interruption Coverage

After a disaster, business owners are likely concerned with income loss and business interruption. While typical commercial insurance policies cover costs associated with repairs to, and even replacement of, equipment and structures, coverage does not always extend to loss of income. Business owners wishing to cover income loss in the event of a disaster should consider an interruption insurance policy.

1. What is an interruption policy?

Business interruption coverage (also referred to as business income coverage) protects a business from the loss of profits or income due to damage, property loss or other covered peril. This income coverage is restricted to the restoration period, meaning that once full functionality is restored to the business, the coverage will cease.

2. What is covered?

As previously stated, interruption insurance covers income loss. These policies do not typically include the costs associated with equipment repairs or restoration to the property because your commercial policy should cover those expenses. These policies merely assess potential income loss based on historical data and help companies recoup this loss during the restoration period.

3. How long is the restoration period?

While storm and fire restoration periods vary in length depending on the severity of sustained damage, interruption policies typically cover 30 days. However, depending on the severity of property damage and loss, this period can be extended to nearly a full year (360 days) with the proper endorsement.

4. How can I prepare for potential interruption?

Coverage is beneficial, but the best way to ensure a quick recovery — and even reduced insurance costs — is to prepare for potential disasters. Emergency restoration services in the Deer Crest, UT, area offer guidance in emergency preparation. These companies will assess your property and help you develop a customized plan to ensure any interruption is resolved efficiently and quickly.

Business interruption insurance can reassure owners during the restoration process, potentially helping them sustain operations. However, to truly survive a disaster, a business also needs to plan ahead so that recovery is handled quickly, allowing the business to return to profit.

"Create a Water-Tight Building Envelope "

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Clean your gutters oftenly in order to protect your building from rain damage

Maintaining a healthy building is much easier when you've created a watertight building envelope. This means that your commercial building is safe from rain damage and the black mold that could result from water seeping into the walls and frame of the building. In fact, one of the top causes of premature structural weakness is the presence of moisture. Fortunately, you can keep water out of the envelope, even during a significant storm.

Begin by Understanding the Envelope

What is a building envelope? This line of defense plays many roles, including

• Defending against rain, hail, snow, ice, and other sources of moisture
• Diverting water to appropriate drainage areas
• Providing resistance to the exchange of heat and cold
• Supporting critical interior equipment and systems

Protect the Envelope From Water Infiltration

Three things have to happen for water to get past the exterior walls. These include the presence of water, some type of pressure forcing the water inward, and openings in the wall, such as cracks around windows or gaps between doors and the walls. If you can eliminate any of these factors, you'll prevent a lot of potential rain damage.

Overcome Common Problems

Leakage usually happens when mistakes are made during installation or because of a lack of appropriate maintenance. Eventually, bricks may become porous, mortar joints may crack, coping caps may lose their seals, and tiny openings may appear around doors and windows. It is a big task to reduce these areas of risk, but it is necessary to prevent significant rain damage when storms occur.

Take Protective Steps

In addition to regular inspections and ongoing repairs, you can protect your building from rain damage by adding water barriers such as sealants, installing sloping gutters, and improving drainage and ventilation around the property. You can also add secondary systems, such as through-wall flashing and damp-proofing treatments. If you're not sure where to start, schedule a professional inspection with water damage experts in Park City, UT.

When Should You Use Drain Cleaners?

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Water loss in a bathroom in Salt Lake City, UT

When you encounter a clogged drain at home in Salt Lake City, UT, you want to fix the problem as soon as possible. Though you may be tempted to immediately use a drain cleaner, it’s not always an appropriate fix for every problem.

With Newer, Stronger Pipes

Pipes that have been installed recently will be significantly stronger than older pipes, and therefore will be able to stand up to the cleaner’s chemicals. Older pipes are particularly susceptible to damage from chemical drainage cleaners. Using harsh cleaners with older pipes could create a more serious sewage issue, costing you additional time and money to clean. If you have plastic pipes in your home, do not use a chemical cleaner regardless of how new the pipes are, as the plastic will immediately erode upon contact with a chemical cleaner.

If You Have Appropriate Tools

It’s essential to only use drainage cleaners if you can do so safely. Just as the chemicals in drain cleaner can damage pipes, it can also be harmful if it makes direct contact with your skin. When using drainage cleaner, take precautions to ensure that your skin will not come in contact with the cleaner itself. If you do not have access to protective gloves and other safety equipment, it’s best not to use chemical cleaners.

Minor Blockages

Using harsh cleaners can create more issues if used when a drain is entirely blocked. If you are certain that your clogged drain is not entirely blocked, then you can use a cleaner to remove the blockage. However, a drain that is wholly blocked will cause the drainage cleaner to remain in the pipes, which can result in even the strongest of pipes becoming eroded and damaged.

Clogged drains can disrupt your day-to-day life in your home. If you encounter an issue with your drains that can’t be easily fixed, contact professionals in sewage cleaning who will ensure your drains are safely and quickly cleaned.

Does This House Come With a Floaty: Understanding Flood Zones

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Roof damage during a storm in Salt Lake City, UT

Many homeowners are not familiar with the idea of a flood zone, especially if they’ve never lived in a high-risk flooding area or an area prone to severe weather, and when searching in the Salt Lake City, UT area they may be shocked at the necessities of these zones. As a way of minimizing the shock, it helps to understand the zoning designations and some of the necessary requirements.

1. The Four Main Zone Types

There are four Main zone types, and if you have never heard of these zones, you likely live in a minimal flood hazard area. The four zone types are:

• Minimal Flood Hazard Areas: typically designated as Zone C or X, these areas are considered low risk.
• Moderate Hazard Flood Areas: typically designated as Zone B, these areas likely experience flooding but not frequently.
• Special Flood Hazard Areas: these are the areas with the highest risk of flooding, and they are typically designated as Zone V or A.
• D Zones: these are areas that FEMA has not given a designation to yet.

2. Zone Maps

Every flood zone is designated on maps readily available through the FEMA Map Service Center. FEMA created these maps to offer valuable insights for the creation of flood management plans as well as insurance coverage by compiling information from the statistical research of river flows, storm tides, rainfall, topographic surveys, and even hydraulic analysis.

3. Zones and Insurance Requirements

While many homeowners might be irked at the idea of paying for additional insurance coverage, it is necessary to keep in mind that in specific high-risk areas the likelihood of your home succumbing to a flood is significantly increased. Therefore, FEMA, the government, and insurance companies have your best interests in mind when they require this type of coverage in high-risk areas.

If the concept of a flood zone is new to you, it can be slightly intimidating, but the reality is that FEMA designates the zones to ensure that you and your property are protected. You can check FEMA’s website, your local municipality, or you can reach out to flood and restoration specialists in your area for more information.

How To Maintain Your Building's Fire System

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Your commercial property in Jeremy Ranch, UT, should have a working fire sprinkler system. While no method of protection is a guarantee for safety if a fire breaks out, sprinkler systems have an excellent track record for helping to put the fire out more quickly and keeping everyone safe. They can only do this if they work properly, though, so regular inspection and maintenance is critical. Here are some tips for keeping your fire suppression system in good working order.

Keep to the Code

One of the most common causes of sprinkler malfunction is lack of adherence to fire codes. There are many examples of issues that can keep your system from working as well as it should:

• Boxes or furniture stacked above the fire line in the room, blocking sensors
• Painters' tape left on fire sprinkler after remodeling project
• Bags placed over sprinkler to keep it from detecting cigarette smoke
• Items hanging from sprinkler

Any of these actions or others like them can cause malfunction. The sprinkler may go off in the room even though there's no fire, or the it may fail to register a fire that does exist. Every room with a sprinkler should have a sign posted with guidelines for adhering to fire code and protecting the fire system.

Lock the Control Valves

A faulty sprinkler valve can wreak havoc on your building, causing it to flood so badly that you need water remediation specialists to perform the fire sprinkler cleanup. One way to avoid this problem is to lock all the control valves in the system, keeping them in the open position. A monthly visual inspection is a good idea, but it's also important to monitor the sprinklers through their communication with the system itself. Your fire panel should alert you if a sprinkler valve is closed.

While a yearly inspection from the fire marshal is required, it is not enough to keep your fire sprinkler system in good working order. You must also inspect and maintain your fire system throughout the year.

Get Rid of Musty, Moldy Odors

7/28/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is always around. It exists inside and outside, it floats on the air, and it grows on many types of surfaces. It has been on the Earth and in Salt Lake City, UT, for millions of the years and will grow wherever there's moisture. Mold spores enters buildings through windows, open doors, vents, and on clothing, pets, and items carried inside. Mold spores will begin to grow and colonize when they come into contact with areas of moisture, such as:

• Older windows
• Leaky roofs
• Around doors
• Wet pipes
• Behind wallpaper

You may not see the mold, but you may be alerted by its presence by a musty odor caused by the release of mycotoxin and gases.

Remove Moisture to Reduce Odors.

It is difficult, but not impossible, to get rid of those bad smells. The first step is getting rid of the cause of mold growth and the spread of mycotoxin. You may need to call in a mold remediation expert to locate the source of moisture, especially if it is the result of a cracked foundation or leaks in the attic. If you don't address the moisture problem, you won't be able to contain the growth of mold.

Dry and Disinfect Problem Areas. 

Sometimes, drying out the area isn't enough to get rid of the musty odor. You may also need to thoroughly clean the affected area. Before trying to treat these areas with homemade treatments, discuss your options with a professional. Some well-known DIY treatments aren't as effective as they seem. Professionals in Salt Lake City, UT, may use HEPA air filtration devices when cleaning up mold.

Leave Odors in the Past.

Once the area has been treated appropriately, there are several steps you can take to keep mold and musty smells at bay. Fresh, circulating air and plenty of sunshine are two of the most effective ways to reduce odors. Some minerals and substances, such as zeolite and activated charcoal, are also effective at absorbing odors. Remember, however, that none of these methods will be adequate if you haven't resolved the moisture at the heart of the problem.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

Understanding a Flood Cut

7/28/2018 (Permalink)

Unless you have experienced past house flooding in Salt Lake City, UT, or are an experienced home renovator, there is a good chance that you do not have the phrase “flood cut” in your vocabulary. For the typical homeowner, many questions come to mind when the water restoration specialist uses this expression after assessing the storm damage in your home.

What Does “Flood Cut” Mean?

• A flood cut refers to the removal of drywall from the bottom portion of the rooms in your home that experienced water damage.
• Typically, this cut is made between 12 – 18 inches above where the water damage stopped.
• The restoration specialists then tear out the drywall below the flood cut line.

When Is a Flood Cut Necessary?

• After flooding, the excess water is removed from your house. However, there may be moisture behind the walls and the drywall may be damaged. Removal of the bottom portion of the wall allows the contractors access to the interior structures of your home.
• If there is contamination in the water that touches the drywall, such as from sewage backup, all affected walls require removal to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• When insulation is present behind water damaged walls, it is necessary to remove the drywall because insulation cannot be properly dried out or replaced with the wall intact.

How Does a Flood Cut Work?

• Restoration contractors begin the flood cut process soon after water removal to prevent the formation and spread of mold, which can occur within 24 – 48 hours.
• The flood cut line is measured and determined before a laser level marks the wall. A tarp is placed to catch the debris, and the cut is made.
• Once the restoration specialists inspect behind the drywall, another cut may be needed if the damage is larger than expected.
• Damaged materials are removed and adequate ventilation is put in place.

By knowing the meaning of “flood cut”, you are one step closer to understanding the terminology used in your home’s recovery from flooding in Salt Lake City, UT.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

3 Things To Do With Your Pipes Before Vacation

6/28/2018 (Permalink)

When you're planning a trip, don't forget to make plans for your pipes before you leave Salt Lake City, UT. Under normal circumstances, they work quietly and harmoniously, carrying water to and fro, but they can't be trusted to do the work when nobody is there. You need to prepare those pipes for the trip. If not, you may come home to a broken pipe and a water park in your basement. Here are three things to do before you leave town:

1. Repair any known problems.

You may already know about a tiny problem here or a little chore there. Now is the time to make that necessary water pipe repair.

2. Shut it all down.

Find the main water supply line to your house and turn it off. This is the best solution to prevent a flooded home. The most difficult part of this task is finding the main water supply valve. It may be in a basement, the garage, or by the hot water heater. A couple days before your vacation, do a practice run of shutting down your water supply. This is much better than explaining to your family later why you're calling in restoration and flood specialists.

3. Only shut down the troublemakers.

If you have someone coming over to take care of the pets, shutting off the main water supply may not be convenient. You can still turn off individual supply valves to the areas most likely to leak, which include lines for the washing machine, dishwasher, ice maker, and toilets. Do you really want your pet sitter working on a water pipe repair?

Of course, this all assumes you have kept up with the regular maintenance (cleaning gutters, septic tank pumping, water heater flushing, and minor water pipe repair) that would help prevent water damage while you are away. If you happen to have pushed these tasks down your list, then you should make sure they are finished before you go. Your preventative actions will ensure that your vacation-induced state of relaxation may continue when you return to your undamaged home.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

Tips for Cleaning a Leaking Roof

6/16/2018 (Permalink)

A roof leak can be a catastrophic problem for your Salt Lake City, UT, property. Not only are leaking roofs often damaged and unsightly, but the leaks they cause can prove a danger to yourself, your employees, your customers, and your inventory. Leaks lead to slip and fall situations, damage electronics, and encourage mold growth. So how can you clean up after a leaking roof?

Keep Everything High and Dry.

The biggest part of cleaning up after a roof leak is to make sure everything stays dry. You should take these steps:

• Remove anything wet that can be salvaged and take it outside to dry out.
• Tear out any porous materials that may be waterlogged and incubating mold.
• Immediately find the source of the leak and implement a temporary patch if possible.
• Clean, dry, and disinfect the affected area.
• Ward off the area until the issue can be addressed.

If the roof leak is a crisis situation with substantial amounts of water flooding the building or making the roof itself unstable, you may need to evacuate the building immediately and call for help. Be very careful when tracing the source of a leak, and never try to climb onto the roof yourself unless you have appropriate safety precautions in place and the proper equipment and assistance. This is especially true in the middle of emergencies such as storms, hurricanes, and other natural disasters that may be the cause of the roof leak. Remember to first protect yourself and your employees; your inventory can be replaced.

Call the Professionals for Roof Repair.

Cleaning up your roof leak isn’t enough. Whether it’s caused by missing shingles or by a more extensively damaged roof, you still need to call for roof repair to ensure the problem is permanently resolved. Cleaning is only a stopgap. Keep your roof properly repaired and restored to keep your business running smoothly.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

4 Common Causes of House Fires

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

4 Common Causes of House Fires

A home fire is a concern that every homeowner should be aware of. The U.S. fire department responded to over a million fires in 2015. Often, a fire happens accidentally, but it’s important to know how to prevent these situations from occurring. Here are four common fire causes in the home.

1. Cooking

The kitchen is a favored room in most houses, but it can be a dangerous place if left unattended. While cooking, be sure to clear away flammable objects that might get in your way. Also, never leave the room while cooking with your pots and pans. If you get distracted in another room, you might not notice a potential fire risk until it’s too late.

2. Electrical Appliances

Any electrical equipment that is faulty can create a home fire. Check for any frayed cords, faulty plugs, or overloaded outlets. During the fire cleaning process, you might be surprised how much damage one hazardous appliance can create.

3. Candles

Candles can create the perfect atmosphere for a fancy dinner, but they can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. The small flames can easily catch paper on fire, and if you’re not paying attention, those flames can grow out of control. Remove any flammable objects such as books or magazines before you set the candles out.

4. Smoking

A cigarette butt can stay lit for several hours even after you smoke. If one of these contacts furniture or drapery, the flammable material could burst into flames. To prevent this, try to avoid leaving cigarettes in the bedroom or other areas with a lot of furniture.
A home fire is never wanted, but it happens more than you might think. Be smart while cooking, inspect your appliances, and carefully discard your cigarette butts after you finish smoking. By taking precautions within your home in Salt Lake City, UT , you can decrease the risk of a disaster.

For more information, please visit us athttp://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

If I Smell Mold But Don't See It, Is There a Problem?

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings in Salt Lake City, UT, can have some strange smells. Some of the aromas you encounter may cause you to blanch and worry about larger problems. A mold smell, for example, could be enough to send you into a panic. If you smell mold, you should look for signs of growth. A commercial mold cleanup crew may be able to help you better assess the situation.

Locate the Problem

But what happens if you can't find any signs of mold? Could the smells be inconsequential? Chances are if you smell it, it's around. Mold can grow in unseen places, including the following:

• Under carpets
• Between walls
• Inside ventilation ducts

If you notice a musty or mildew smell, you should be on high alert and bring in an expert who can help you find hidden signs of the growth.

Turn to Special Tools

When you cannot find visible signs of fungus, you need to turn to some special tools that can help you locate trouble spots. A thermal camera, for example, can be used to locate sources of water. If you have an unknown leak in your walls, experts can use this device to help you spot the water issue. The source of water damage is often a great place to look for the cause of your fungus smell.

Find Areas of Moisture

These infrared cameras can better help you locate the source of a mold smell because they pick up signs of moisture that the human eye cannot see. While this equipment is beneficial, you may still need the help of other tools as well. For example, your technician may use a temperature measurement tool in conjunction with the camera to better assess what's going on in the nooks and crannies of your building.

Because mold smell can be repugnant, you should not ignore this musty odor. Fungus produces odors when it releases gasses. In other words, if you smell it, it is probably somewhere in your commercial building.

For more information, please visit us athttp://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

So, the Water Damage is Done—What’s the Hurry?

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Many people live by the notion that once the damage is done, there is no hurry to make the fix. This is a dangerous and costly notion to live by, especially where water damage is concerned. Whether the damage in your building is due to a pipe burst, sewage backup or a flood, you need to act fast, and here’s why:

• Mold growth begins within 24 hours of the incident.
• Once mold has started to grow, it produces spores, which can float from room to room and wreak more damage than the original patch, making complete mold cleanup extremely difficult.
• The water itself can deteriorate building materials and furniture.
• Some water is contaminated with dangerous chemicals and biomaterials.
• The longer you wait, the less likely your insurance will be to cover the issue.

Water Damage Is a Ticking Clock

Once water damage occurs, you have between 24 and 48 hours to clean it up and prevent mold growth. Even something as small as a pipe burst has the potential to create costly and difficult-to-remedy issues. Because this is your livelihood at stake, don’t try and clean up the mess on your own. Rather, contact a Salt Lake City, UT, water restoration team to help.

The right team can use commercial-grade tools to pump sitting water out of your building and to begin drying it out. Depending on the source of the issue, the water may be contaminated, in which case, the team you call would wear Hazmat suits and protective gear to decontaminate the area. This is an important step for commercial buildings, as any illness or injury caused by improperly cleaned water damage could pose a liability issue for the building owner.

Just because the pipe burst is done leaking or the water from a flood has receded doesn’t mean you don’t need to act quickly. The sooner you reach out to your Salt Lake City, UT, water remediation team, the better. The longer you wait, on the other hand, the greater the damage will become.

For more information, please visit us athttp://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

3 Tips for Maintaining Your Sump Pump

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

When flooding hits Salt Lake City, UT, your home’s sump pump can be the first line of defense in keeping your basement dry. The pump is designed to drain away water in case of a flood and send it to a designated drainage area. While you might not always need your pump, proper maintenance can keep it running at top tier and have it ready to go if flooding should occur.

1. Check the Float

Checking the float in your unit can help you gauge how effectively it is working. To do this, plug the sump pump into a power source and pour a full bucket of water into the well. If the pump is working correctly, the float will rise and the system will turn on. You can perform this check every few months and a few weeks before the rainy or thawing seasons.

2. Wash or Replace the Screen

During normal pump operation, your unit may draw in debris from flood water that might clog the inlet screen. Leaves, twigs and other small bits of trash are usually the most common culprits. After every few uses, it is a good idea to pull the inlet screen and give it a thorough washing. A clean screen may allow the pump to run with more efficiency and give the motor a longer life.

3. Have the Pump Professionally Inspected

A yearly inspection and testing by a qualified storm damage and restoration company can ensure that your unit is running properly and that no parts are damaged or need replacing. This kind of pump maintenance can give you peace of mind that your basement is guarded against flooding, especially if you live in an area that sees a lot of rain during the spring or fall.

Flooding in Salt Lake City, UT, can cause water damage to your basement and foundation. However, ensuring that your home’s sump pump is ready for action can help you avoid the time and cash it takes to deal with the aftermath of a flood.

For more information, please visit us athttp://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

Important Steps in Mold Remediation

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

There are many issues you could find in your home, but few cause more concern and stress than mold. Certain areas of the world are more prone to mold growth, but this unwanted invader can grow in any home, regardless of the location, style, or age. Fortunately, if you discover mold in your Salt Lake City, UT, home, there is a way to make things right. Even if you have black mold, with the right steps, you can clean it up, and your home can once more be livable.

Understand the Moisture Issues

Mold doesn’t just magically appear one day in your walls, under or on your floors, or on your roof. It grows because of a moisture problem, so it’s critical to understand how this issue is occurring. The mold remediation process begins by pinpointing where the water issue is coming from and what the source may be. Is it a leaky pipe or a larger plumbing matter? A professional will help identify the root cause and put an end to it so mold growth doesn’t continue.

Assess the Problem and Devise a Strategy

It is difficult to come up with a mold cleanup plan unless you understand the full scope of the problem you face. Find out how much mold you have and which types of mold are present at home in Salt Lake City, UT. Make sure you document whether you have black mold, as this is the most troubling form of the fungus. Take pictures and record your findings.

Clean It Up

Enlist the help of a professional to assist in your cleanup efforts. The faster you do mold remediation, the less likely the mold will continue to grow. Here are some critical steps:

• Stop the water issues
• Get rid of damaged items
• Clean the moldy areas thoroughly with a detergent solution.

If you find black mold or other such mold issues, get professional help right away. With the right actions, you can enjoy your home once more.

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

Salvaging Possessions After Your Business Has Flooded

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Buildings aren’t the only thing impacted when flooding happens. The possessions inside are also in peril of becoming damaged. Mold can begin to grow within 48 hours, so sorting through the debris in the wake of flood damage and beginning the task of content cleaning as soon as possible is imperative for salvaging commercial possessions.

Identifying What Can Be Saved

Many items can oftentimes be cleaned and saved if tended to quickly:

• Furniture and items made out of wood, as long as they have not become warped
• Metal furniture and articles
• Many plastic items

As a rule of thumb, nonporous materials may typically survive and be salvageable.

Understanding Which Items Often Need To Be Discarded

Items made of porous material may not be as fortunate when it comes to content cleaning efforts. They have a greater chance of becoming saturated and soaked through in a flood. Here are things that you may likely need to part with:

• Carpeting or rugs, especially those that come into contact with black water
• Saturated upholstered furniture
• Blankets or other items constructed of materials that can soak up liquids

It’s best to remove these items from the building as soon as possible so that they can’t harbor additional bacteria and contaminants in the space.

Cleaning Salvageable Possessions

Move items to a dry and non-humid area for cleaning. Smaller pieces that could not soak up water should be wiped down and disinfected to remove possible bacteria. Allow items to dry in a space with adequate air circulation. Move larger items outside, if possible, to wipe down and sanitize. If attempting to save carpeting or rugs, debris should be removed and they should be thoroughly hosed down. Allow items to completely dry in the sun if that option is available.

Sorting through the debris of a flooded building and completing content cleaning is no easy task and can certainly be overwhelming. If in doubt that something can be adequately cleaned, it’s best to be safe and discard it. A professional in flood remediation in Salt Lake City, UT, can provide additional support and assistance in ensuring that your company’s articles are properly and safely cleaned.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

3 Steps To Recover From Kitchen Water Damage

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

When you find a leak in your kitchen, many details should be handled quickly to minimize the damage flooding can cause. Though it may seem overwhelming, following these steps can help save your property and return your kitchen to its undamaged state.

1. Shut Off the Water and Assess Your Safety

The first step when you have a leaky kitchen sink is to turn off your water. Check underneath the sink to start. There will probably be stop valves there (one for hot water and one for cold), which you can turn clockwise to stop the water from flowing to the sink.

Once you've stopped the active seepage, you should make sure the environment is safe. The most common concerns after kitchen floods are slip-and-fall incidents and electrical hazards. Also remember that wet materials can be extremely heavy. Exercise caution when removing damaged items.

2. Call Your Insurance Company

You should call your insurance company when dealing with flooding in your residence. There are several types of water-related disasters, but for insurance purposes, there are only three categories of damage. Talking with restoration professionals can give you the details your insurance agent needs during the claims process.

3. Call in the Professionals

Depending on the severity of your leak, damage can include ruined floors, cabinets, or appliances and can lead to mold or rot. These problems are more likely to linger if they aren't handled correctly from the start. A cleanup and restoration company can make recovering from emergencies from water in the home more manageable. A trained expert typically uses a scientific approach and powerful technology to help with every step. Restoration services may include evaluating damage, moisture extraction, drying, dehumidification, sanitizing, and kitchen repair.

If you feel daunted by the prospect of repairing your kitchen after flooding in Salt Lake City, UT, hire a skilled restoration company. By approaching the repairs methodically and using an array of impressive tools, experts can return your home to its pre-damage condition more quickly.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

How To Handle Ice Dams That Cause Mold on Your Property

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Winter weather makes for beautiful scenery, but it can spell disaster for property owners. If you’re a building owner in Salt Lake City, UT, and you experience the headache of an ice dam after a winter storm, you’re also dealing with the possibility of black mold. Read on to learn how ice dams form on your rooftop and how to address them, whether through quick fixes or with professional mold cleanup once a leak has already spread.

A typical ice dam forms in one of two ways:

1. Heat from inside the building rises to the roof, causing the roof’s surface to heat up and a thin layer of snow above it to melt. However, the layers on top never melt, causing water buildup that has nowhere to run off. This buildup turns into a block of ice and causes the dam effect.

2. Once the storm clears and the sun returns, the heat from the sun’s rays melts the snow. Unfortunately, once the sun sets and the temperature drops, this water then becomes ice and creates a similar problem. Any backed up water leaks back into the roof shingles or walls of the building, leading to excess moisture and the potential for mold growth.

How You Can Handle a Dam That’s Already Formed

If a dam has already formed, it’s best to act quickly to prevent any further damage from water leaks along the roof or inside the building’s walls. A few tips to try:

? Aim a house fan directly at the leak site so the cold air forces the water to freeze again.
? Use a roof rake to remove built-up snow and let the remaining water run off as intended.
? Call a team of mold remediation specialists if you notice water leakage. They can scan for any mold growth and help you repair the water damage.

When an ice dam forms, the threat of water leaks and black mold becomes real. If the damage is already done, it’s important to call mold removal specialists in Salt Lake City, UT, who can handle mold cleanup properly.

For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

How to Ensure the Efficiency of Your Fire Sprinklers

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Dealing with a fire in your commercial building is a scary situation, but with the help of fire sprinklers, you can reduce the damage drastically. A fire sprinkler can release 8 to 24 gallons per minute, easily quenching growing fires. It’s important to maintain your fire sprinklers so that they can quickly react to the growing heat. Here are a couple things you can do to make sure that your sprinklers can effectively put out a fire.

Correct Installation

If you are putting in a fire sprinkler, be sure to install everything correctly. Each component must be working for the sprinklers to operate. Common types of sprinkler systems include:

* Dry Pipe. Pipes are filled with pressurized air or nitrogen.
* Wet Pipe. This system has water already inside of the pipes to ensure a quick response.
* Pre-Action. When heat or smoke is detected, the valve is activated to allow water to flow in the piping.

By knowing which sprinkler system you have, you can be aware of the situation in the case of a fire.

Maintain Your System

If there are obstructions in the piping or the main valve is turned off, your fire sprinkler will not turn on. Fire suppression is essential when protecting both the lives of your employees and the assets in your building, so regular maintenance is needed. Laws and codes in Salt Lake City, UT, often require frequent check-ups to help with insurance policies and public safety.

There are many reasons why keeping your sprinkler system in top shape is vital. This handy system can quench a fire even before the fire department reaches the building, thus minimizing damage. Also, fire sprinkler cleanup is much less severe than fire hose cleanup because not as many gallons of water per minute are used. By inspecting each fire sprinkler often and making sure you and your company are prepared for a disaster, you can reduce fire damage and expenses.

For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

3 Tips To Prevent Chimney Fires

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Many homeowners do not give their chimneys the attention they deserve. It is a shame, because without proper maintenance, a chimney fire could break out. You will know if a fire has broken out in your chimney because you will notice black smoke coming out of the stack as well as an intensely hot odor. Fortunately, a few preventive actions can greatly reduce your chances of dealing with a fire like this in Salt Lake City, UT. 

1. Clean Chimney Regularly

The easiest thing you can do is hire someone to clean the inside of your chimney from time to time. A professional knows what precautions to take to prevent injury. This is especially important because someone will need to get on the roof to clean effectively. You do not want to put yourself in harm’s way by getting on the roof yourself.

2. Only Burn Dry Wood

You want to avoid using wet wood in your fireplace. It is also good to avoid wood that is not yet fully cured to circumvent a chimney fire. Both of these varieties produce a greater amount of smoke. Therefore, they leave behind much more residue in the chimney. With dry wood, you will greatly reduce the amount of creosote left behind.

3. Avoid Burning Anything That Should Not Be Burned

Dry kindling or clean newspapers are some of the best ways to start a fire. However, too many homeowners simply toss whatever they have around the house in the fireplace. Wrapping paper and cardboard boxes should never be used. You should also avoid using gasoline in an attempt to get the fire going. All of these increase your risk of starting a fire.

A chimney fire can cause a lot of damage, and it will not take long until the fire spreads to other areas of your home. Fortunately, it is completely preventable as long as you know how to properly and safely use your fireplace.

For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com.

Tips for Preserving Personal Items After a Flood

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

Time is of the essence when it comes to safeguarding valuables submerged in flood waters. Mold formation can begin within 48 hours of immersion, and contaminated "black water" can carry dangerous chemicals and pathogens. It's a good idea for homeowners in City, State to learn about content cleaning before disaster strikes. Here are a few tips on what can and can't be salvaged, and how to minimize damage to precious belongings.

Unsalvageable Items

Unfortunately, most porous materials that have come into contact with black water cannot be saved during the content cleaning process. This includes:

• Furniture items
• Carpeting and padding
• Particle board cabinets
• Portions of drywall or insulation that have been immersed.

Microscopic toxic chemical compounds and fungal spores can pose a serious health risk to a home’s inhabitants. Non-porous items, on the other hand, may be able to be sanitized and kept.

Immediate Steps To Take

Legal papers, photo albums, artwork and other precious items that cannot be replaced might be saved, especially if you act quickly to minimize further damage.

Papers, artwork and photographs should be separated and removed from albums and frames and placed on plastic screens or hung using plastic clothespins (contact with metal or other types of materials could cause irreparable damage). Photos can also be gently rinsed in clean water before drying. To salvage important books, insert a paper towel every few pages to soak up harmful moisture.

It is recommended that you air dry items indoors. Open windows, air conditioners, fans and dehumidifiers can all help to increase airflow and reduce drying times. Avoid using heat during this process, such as irons or hair dryers, as they can cause further damage.

If the black water contamination is especially severe, or if mold is already present, you may want to leave the bulk of your content cleaning to a professional flood restoration team in Salt Lake City, UT.

Visit us at http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more storm information. 

Get the Facts About Secondary Damage After a Flood

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

Secondary damage is a term used to describe factors such as high humidity and black mold. Water damage can develop fast in Park City, UT, and it usually does not take long for significant problems to result. You should be aware of what damage can happen and what to do about it so that you can take the appropriate action.

Understanding Types of Secondary Water Damage

You should know what the different types of secondary water damage are in order to know what to look for following a flood or similar water problem. The following are what you should be aware of:

• Mold growth, which can start to occur in as little as 24 hours
• Corrosion of certain metal components and materials
• Damage to your personal belongings and elements, such as flooring and walls
• Electrical damage if the water is able to penetrate sockets and anything else powered by electricity
• Wood rot when wood is allowed to remain wet for a prolonged period of time



Beginning cleanup quickly can be imperative to saving your possessions. If you get started with cleaning up excess water fast enough, you may be able to prevent, or at least reduce, black mold and other damage. Make sure to get all of the water out after shutting off all utilities to the impacted area. Run a dehumidifier and open windows to finish drying out the space. From here, you may want to use warm water and detergent that produces limited suds to thoroughly scrub the space. Once you complete this task, go back over everything with a sanitizing solution, and make sure that it dries completely.

You are now aware of the issues that can result from black mold and other types of secondary water damage. With this information, you have the knowledge necessary to better detect these problems and eradicate them as quickly as possible.

Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more water loss prevention and tips. 

The Three Categories of Water Damage

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

If your commercial property has suffered damage, one of the first things professionals in Sugar House, UT do is assess the extent of the damage. They examine the flood water and place it in one of three categories. Read more about the safety implications of each to learn about what to expect if your business or rental residence is victim to a broken pipe, natural disaster or heavy rains.

Category 1

Water in this category doesn't pose a significant threat to humans. Some professionals call it "clean water." Sources can include broken water supply lines, tub and sink overflows or appliance malfunctions.

Category 2

Category 2 water carries a significant amount of toxins, chemicals and biological contaminants that pose a risk to health. Some people may feel sick or uncomfortable if exposed. Typically, experts will recommend you temporarily close down your property if this type of water has flooded your floors or walls.

Category 3

This is the most dangerous type of water. The number of bacteria and microorganisms is such that it may cause harmful bacteria to grow. Category three flood water includes:

• Sewer backup
• River or stream water
• Toilet water with feces
• Stagnant liquid

Also known as "black water", water restoration experts will usually take extra care in cleaning up the damage. They'll wear safety clothing and googles and use sophisticated equipment to eliminate the harm. The most important thing to remember if confronted with category 3 water is to not approach it at all, not even to salvage your possessions. If the water has a dark color or enough excessive particulates floating in it to raise suspicion, best to call the pros with the knowledge and expertise to tackle the problem.

Every year, many buildings in Sugar House, UT are subjected to flood water. Understanding the three different categories can help you anticipate what work will need to be completed to make your property safe again.

Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more commercial restoration information. 

3 Steps for Preventing Mold

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

3 Steps for Preventing Mold

While mold growth can occur practically anywhere in Salt Lake City, Utah organic material that is damp and has access to oxygen creates a nutritious breeding ground for many types of mold that harm the host substances. Repairing water damage and its root cause as quickly as possible can minimize issues in the future. Consider these three mold prevention steps.

Immediately Dry Areas That Should Not Be Wet

Once you identify moisture where it should not be, immediate action to dry the area can mitigate further damage. If porous materials such as wood, carpets, upholstery, or fabrics cannot be fully dried, they may need to be removed from the home or moved into outside areas with adequate air circulation for drying.

Make Repairs to Avoid Future Mold

From top to bottom, examine your home and any areas where mold could grow, particularly in damp, hard-to-reach crevasses. Any instances of frequent water damage from condensation, leaks, or pooling water should be investigated to determine the source of the moisture. Mold-resistant materials may be used during repairs, particularly in high humidity regions.

Ventilate Damp Rooms

Certain rooms throughout the house, including bathrooms or laundry rooms, may naturally experience higher moisture levels due to common activities conducted there. Appliances that produce moisture should be vented to the outside rather than to another inside region. Air conditioning units or dehumidifiers may create airflow or remove moisture from the air within the room. Energy-efficient homes may hold more moisture inside, so opening windows or running fans during activities that create moisture can help keep spaces dry.

While all water damage cannot be avoided, the scope may be minimized by taking mold prevention steps throughout Salt Lake City, Utah homes and calling remediation experts. Immediately addressing water issues that can cause mold growth when they are first identified can prevent additional damage and higher repair costs in the future. Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on mold damage.

6 Steps To Take After a Fire

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

6 Steps To Take After a Fire

There are few things more emotionally devastating than having a fire rip through your Salt Lake City, Utah home. In an instant, your treasured belongings can be damaged or destroyed, leaving you with a gaping hole in your life. When a fire disaster happens to you, there are some steps you can take to help make the aftermath easier to manage. In addition to contacting a fire restoration company to help you with the cleanup, here are some steps that can shorten your post-fire recovery.

Call your fire insurance company. The sooner you file a claim, the faster your insurance company can work through the claims process.

Don’t touch damaged areas. Fire can weaken structures beyond what is apparent to the eye. Leave damaged areas alone until these areas are deemed safe by a professional. If necessary, contact a firm offering board-up services to secure your home from outsiders.

Check ceilings and floors for sagging. Water damage caused by putting out the fire can severely weaken these areas. Do not walk on or under sagging areas.

Check appliances before using them. Unplug and check all your appliances for damage before you turn them on. If in doubt, replace them. Remember that safety first is the guiding principle of fire restoration.

Check your electrical system. Look for broken or frayed wires, and be aware of smells such as hot insulation. If these are present, turn off your circuit breakers, and contact a qualified electrician for help.

Start the smoke cleaning process. Smoke damage gets worse the longer it sits. For this reason, it’s important to begin the cleanup process as soon as possible.

Nobody wants to go through a home fire, but if it happens to your Salt Lake City, Utah home, the steps listed here can lessen the impact of a house fire on your home and your life. Dealing with the fire restoration process and your fire insurance company can be overwhelming, but it is better to do so sooner rather than later. Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on fire damage.

Commercial Fire Damage Can Also Cause Water Damage

10/23/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Fire Damage Can Also Cause Water Damage

Many business owners are surprised to discover that commercial fire damage from fires like an electrical fire or a utility room fire can also cause water damage. In putting out a fire and combating fire damage, a firefighter may need to get a lot of water on the property from the fire hose after a fire sprinkler system has begun to put some of the flames away. An electrical fire or a fire such as a utility room fire can cause problems that can lead to water damage in an industrial kitchen or collective kitchen space.

When there's a utility room fire, this can lead to flooding that can also create water damage. Soot damage can also lead to problems with water if fire suppression measures in the space fail. Smoke damage can trigger the fire sprinkler system to activate as part of any fire suppression methods and also lead to water problems in many spaces in the business. If any business owner finds soot damage or smoke damage as a result of commercial fire damage in the space, it is good idea to go looking for signs of water damage.

Coping With Water Damage

Water damage can immediately obvious. When a firefighter comes with a fire hose and a fire truck, the result can minutes if not hours of water on the business space. A fire sprinkler system may also run for hours and may not be detected for a long time. Any commercial business owner may find themselves shocked at the extent of the damage caused by the fire truck and fire hose. A firefighter may need to run the fire hose from the fire truck for hours just to make sure the fire is out and the fire damage fully contained. Fire suppression efforts may need more than one firefighter and one fire truck to get under control. Smoke damage and soot damage from an electrical fire or a utility room fire may need lots of help from the fire sprinkler system to stop.

Getting Rid of Water Damaged Items

When any business owner find commercial fire damage in their business because of fire suppression efforts to combat smoke damage and soot damage, they may need to decide what items can be salvaged during fire restoration efforts and efforts to clean up after fire damage. Any business owner should work a fire restoration company to figure out how best to respond to the water damage. They may need to sort through a great many items in the space where the electrical fire took place. Many kinds of items can suffer from fire damage and commercial fire damage. Furniture can suffer heavy damage from water. The same is true of the walls, the doors and the windows in the space. Floors can also be damaged from water coming into the space. When looking through such items, it's best to work with closely with a fire restoration company. They can offer expert advice and help with deciding what should be done with any items that are still full of water. The fire restoration experts can help the business owner determine exactly what they need to help minimize their losses from the fire and any subsequent water damage.

The Entire Space

It's possible for water to get into many areas of the business including many areas that may not be readily seen initially. A business owner may be startled to discover that water is in the spaces all around them including the ceilings and under a their storage space. They may also be surprised to learn that water can also be in areas surrounding the entire building such as the parking areas and the areas with lots of landscaping. It is important to develop a plan for removing the water from all such areas after the fire as well as all the interior spaces.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on commercial fire damage.

How A Fire Restoration Company Can Restore Your Home

10/23/2017 (Permalink)

How A Fire Restoration Company Can Restore Your Home

Fire damage is one of the most frustrating and devastating situations you can face, and if improperly handled, it can lead to major structural damage and huge repair costs. Fire damage in home or fire business situations should be addressed promptly. That way you can be assured of no additional problems in the near future.

Fire damage has many notable side effects, including water damage. Left untreated, the water may lead to additional damage within a few days of the fire incident. Water and foam, used to put out fires, also mix with soot and ash to create a mess. It is strongly recommended that you refrain from attempting to handle this type of repair work yourself, since the affected area will require specialized treatment and attention.

Fire damage restoration specialists can handle all sorts of residential and commercial fire and smoke damage situations. Fire damage restoration professionals always treat the property with proper care. They utilize high-tech restoration tools and advanced techniques to remove the soot damage, the smoke damage, eliminate smoke smell, and best of all, they restore the property to its pre-fire condition. Their knowledge and experience in all areas of fire in home and fire in business damage restoration will help businesses and home owners get back to handling their normal routine.

Here is the standard fire damage restoration process followed by residential and commercial fire damage professionals to restore the property back as normal as possible.

Call A Restoration Company

Dealing with fire in business or fire in home can be very stressful, and requires great expertise. It is extremely important to call a residential or commercial fire damage company to board up the exposed areas and handle the fire cleanup, including the repair of soot damage, smoke damage and smoke smell. Board up must be done properly and as soon as possible, whether it's a fire in home or fire in business issue.

Assessment Of The Situation

Once a technicians from a restoration company arrive at the site, they will get to work immediately assessing the damage. This initial step usually involves inspection of the affected area and its contents to determine how to approach the situation. They will develop a customized action plan for restoration, including a plan to board up the windows and missing walls, and address smoke damage, soot damage and smoke smell.

Eliminate Damaged Materials

Residential or commercial fire damage professionals remove all damaged materials and eliminate smoke smell using appropriate techniques. They wear protective clothing and use their state-of-the-art equipment and tools to remove the materials before they begin the fire cleanup.

Trained residential or commercial fire damage technicians will take the time to perform cleaning of all areas affected by the fire damage, soot damage, smoke damage and smoke smell. Professionals will conduct a thorough inspection of the property after the fire in business or fire in home cleanup to make sure that the fire cleanup efforts are successful.

Repair and Renovation

The idea of this final stage is to restore the property to a good condition. This involves actually repairing the damage caused by fire in home or fire in business. For instance, if furniture or cabinets have been destroyed by fire, technicians will either repair those items or replace them with new ones. New walls can be repainted and carpets can be installed.

Summing Up

Fire can cause tremendous damage to a home or business property. Businesses and homeowners can oftentimes be devastated by the severe damage caused by a fire event. It is important to call a restoration company as soon as possible after a fire in business or home, to board up and begin fire damage restoration right away.

Experienced fire cleanup professionals have the resources and skill to handle the situation and get rid of smoke damage, smoke smell, soot damage and restore the property to its pre-fire condition.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on fire damage.

Different Types of Storm Damage

10/23/2017 (Permalink)

Different Types of Storm Damage

Flooding and ice damming is one of the problems that are associated with storms. No one can estimate the amount of storm damage until it is over. Storm damage comes in different forms. Some of the effects of storm damage include roof leaks, hail damage, ice damming, hurricane damage, and river flooding and wind damage. The storm restoration process follows several certain steps which are listed below.

Flooding and water restoration

Flooding can be quite devastating. Places with large creeks are mostly affected by river flooding. Additionally, flood water can also lead to a roof leak.

Storm damage

The home restoration company will have to use a flood pump to remove the flood water. Using the right type of flood pump will help the water restoration firm to remove the flood water quickly. Furthermore, the company will do a check to find out that the hail damage is not severe. Roof repair will involve repairing the roof leak to ensure that the homeowner will be able to settle in the house within a short period. The first step in home restoration is to remove the flood water. It will not be possible to begin the storm remediation if the room is filled up with ground water damage.

Hurricane damage

The water restoration company will use the necessary equipment to remove the items that are blocking the way or which entered the house. Hail damage can cause roof leak which can easily be handled by home restoration company. The house will turn into an ice dam if the roof repair is not done on time.

Ice damage can wreak havoc on a home after the flooding. Ice damage can lead to frozen pipes, ice damming, and even roof damage. The only way to get rid of roof damage is to get the help of a restoration company. The ice damming can make the house not suitable for living. Therefore the company has to make the house ideal for living. Furthermore, the storm restoration company have the right equipment like flood pump that will help in removing the river flooding caused by the storm damage. A homeowner can rest easy knowing that their home will go back to its initial status because of the help of the storm restoration firm through storm remediation.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on storm damage.

The Process of Restoring Water Damage

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

The Process of Restoring Water Damage

It is always a great challenge to go back to normal life after flood damage or other types of water accidents, and that is why you need professional water damage restoration services for proper mitigation in a flooded home. A restoration company extracts all the water in business or water in home restoring your building to its pre-damage condition. A pipe break or a supply line break leads to water in business or water in home leading to flood damage, mold growth, and damage to furniture. Licensed and certified experts from a reputable water restoration company should be contacted to carry out the damage restoration process. The water damage restoration process in a flooded home includes the following steps:

Initial Visual Inspection

The first step involves conducting a thorough assessment of the situation to find out the extent of water in business or water in home. The only way to achieve proper mitigation is by determining the category of flood damage. The category of damage guides the restoration company when coming up with the restoration strategy. Category 1 damage includes flood damage resulting from clean water sources such as water from a pipe break, toilet water tank, or a supply line break. Water in business or water in home that contains detergents and other chemicals cause category 2 damage. Category 3 d river flood damage is caused by unsanitary water that can cause disease or even death. This includes water from the sewerage system, river flooding, and stagnant water.

Water Removal

In case of pipe break or supply line break, there is always a need for an immediate water cleanup in a flooded home. Vacuums and pumps are normally used to remove water from all the rooms. A restoration company decides on the type of equipment to use based on the level of damage caused by water in home or water in business. It is advisable to extract the water as soon as possible to prevent mold and bacterial growth. Further damage can be prevented through immediate extraction in case of a pipe break or a supply line break.

The water cleanup process should not take place before wet materials such as throw rugs, pillows, carpets, clothing, and toys are removed from the affected area in a flooded home. Wet surfaces on surfaces such as ceilings, walls, floors should be removed after water cleanup to expedite drying. In addition, the contractors should open cabinet drawers and doors during the water cleanup process to accelerate drying.

Stabilizing and Drying

This process begins after water extraction and removal of wet material. In order to achieve complete evaporation and proper circulation of air, professional contractors use specialized equipment such as heaters and air movers. Moisture control helps in the prevention of mold growth in a flooded home. The time the building takes to dry is determined by the nature of the damage and the type of impacted materials.

Reassessment of the Damage

The best way to ensure complete mitigation after a pipe break or a supply line break is to reassess the level of water damage after the drying process. It is important to ensure that there are no traces of moisture hidden within the building. Mold growth can result from hidden pockets of moisture, and that is why there is a need to reassess the entire process.

Cleaning

All the personal belongings should be cleaned and sanitized to prevent mold growth and bacterial growth. Materials such as carpeting, clothing, and drapery should undergo anti-microbial treatment. Air scrubbers are normally used to remove particles and moisture that may be present in the air.

Reconstruction

Replacement of the drywall and insulation is a very important component of the mitigation process. The next step after mitigating water damage involves replacement of the structural damage caused to the building. This is part of the reconstruction process that is meant to restore the building to its pre-damage condition. Examples of materials and items that may need some repairs or reconstruction include walls, floors, clothing, shelves, drapery, ductwork, and heating systems.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on water damage.

Processing Water Damage

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

Processing Water Damage

When maintaining a home or business, there is a wide array of disasters and accidents that we have to account for. Many of these disasters and accidents can come from nowhere, leaving home and business owners with a list of unexpected costs and setbacks. One of the most common disasters that we tend to face as home owners is flood damage that leaves water in the home or water in the business. Water in the home or water in a business can occur at any given moment, and have a myriad of causes, including a supply line break or a pipe break. Because a flooded home can usually strike without warning, there are several steps that are necessary for you to take in order to properly assess and fix the situation. When facing water in the home or water in a business, the first action to take is to contact your insurance company.

Once your insurance company is contacted, you should detail the current condition of the property, including the level of standing water in the home or water in a business. Remember, your insurance company works for you, so detailing as much of the situation as possible will help to save time during the process, as time is an essential element when dealing with a flooded home. The next step in the process is contacting a restoration company that can properly handle the flood damage that you are facing. An insurance company will normally have a relationship with a restoration company, or at least adequate knowledge of their dealings, and should be able to recommend one to you.

When choosing your restoration company, it is important to have a full understanding of the type of work that they specialize in, as well as their limitations. Every restoration company is not the same, and some will be licensed by the state of origin to handle additional repairs that extend beyond water cleanup. If your restoration company is not licensed by the state to handle repairs additional to removing water in the home or water in a business, an additional company may need to be contacted in order to complete restoration.

Mitigation of water damage in your flooded home is one of the most sought after outcomes when choosing a company for the restoration of your home. When it comes to damage mitigation in your flooded home, time is of the essence. Time is the most valuable commodity when it comes to the water cleanup process, as the longer the process takes, the lesser the chance is that damage mitigation will be possible. One of the major causes of a flood damage in the home or business is a supply line break or a pipe break. Many outside factors, such as torrential downpours, or sub zero temperatures, can cause a supply line break or a pipe break. In reference to flood damage, freezing weather is one of the number one factors to cause a pipe break or supply line break, resulting in a flooded home. A wall or another physical barrier could block access to a supply line break or pipe break, and if this is the case, may result in additional costs, due to difficulty regarding accessibility. Water damage will only increase as time passes.

In restoration, drying is the final physical step in the water cleanup process and it is also one of the most important. Improperly drying a formerly flooded home, can result in a myriad of additional problems that may increase costs. Drying will help to reduce the chances of mold growth, or other unwanted microbial life. The mitigation of water damage and the mitigation of costs can be entirely possible if the water cleanup process is followed completely. Remember, when faced with water damage, the restoration process is very time sensitive and is only complete after the drying process is completed.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on water damage.

Professional Fire Damage Restoration Tips and Guidelines

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

Professional Fire Damage Restoration Tips and Guidelines

When the smoke clears after commercial fire damage or fire in home, many homeowners find themselves in a very challenging situation trying to restore their homes to their state before the fire. The challenge with fire damage is that smoke, soot and also the water used in the extinguishing process are all agents that cause harm to the house. It is advisable to hire professionals to handle fire cleanup and restoration for you after a case of fire damage. Below are some tips that can help you get excellent fire damage restoration results after a fire in home.

What to do before restoration

You can only re-enter a building that was destroyed in a fire when the fire marshal says that it is okay to do so. You will need safety equipment such as goggles, gloves and a face mask for protection. It is recommended that you be in the commercial fire damage professionals as accidents can still happen at this point. Alternatively, you can leave the assessment job to the fire damage restoration experts altogether. When they get in the house, they open fans and windows to increase the flow of air in the building. The process of assessing the extent of the fire in home damage then starts.

Board up service after fire damage

One of the initial steps which will be taking action to make sure that the building is protected from further damage. Board up services perform the duty of sealing the building from unwanted intruders and preventing the collapse of structures which have been weakened by the fire. A service that goes together with the board up is tarping on the roof of the building. Roof tarping, just like the board up, protects the interior of the house from rain water and also keeps intruders out.

When the house is protected from further damage and vandalism, the commercial fire damage experts start the fire cleanup process. The restoration company first removes any water that could have been left behind in the firefighting efforts and dry up the interior of the home. A dehumidifier will also help in the removal of any excess moisture to protect the building from future mold damage.

Dealing with soot damage after a fire.

After a fire, thick black soot damage occurs on the walls and ceiling and at times even the floor. The fire damage restoration experts use a vacuum cleaner to try and remove any excess soot from the soot damage. The restoration company will spread a tarp on the floor before fire cleanup to avoid staining surfaces like the floor further. Other methods that are used for the smoke damage and fire cleanup include dry sponges which absorb the moisture and chemicals such as trisodium phosphate.

Dealing with smoke damage after a fire

After the soot damage has been dealt with, you will still need to deal with the lingering smoke smell left behind by smoke damage. There are various cleaning agents used by the commercial fire damage restoration experts to remove this smoke smell. The extent of the smoke smell and smoke damage after a fire in business will determine the amount of cleaning up needed to fix the problem.

Restoration

After the removal of the smoke smell left behind after a fire in business or home, the last step in the process is restoration. The restoration company will assess the now clean, dry and odorless house and note down the repairs which need to be made. Some of the common repairs made after fire damage include the replacement of any drywall which was destroyed in the fire, replacement of floor boards, cabinets and other wooden structures and repainting the building. If doors and windows were ruined, the restoration company helps with the repairs and replacements. The process ends when the house has been fixed to resemble the state it was in before the fire in home or fire in business.

It is recommended that for your safety, and the quality of the work done, you should hire commercial fire damage professionals in fire damage restoration. Trying DIY projects to fix fire in business often has poor results and put the safety of the occupants of the building at a significant risk.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on fire damage.

What To Expect After Interior Water Damage

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

What To Expect After Interior Water Damage

One issue that can strike fear in the heart of a homeowner is a mold infestation. Most mold problems result from a water leak, and can quickly grow and cause a home to be unsafe for those who live there. Fortunately, a restoration company can make mold removal an easy and worry free process. One of the worst things a person can do is attempt to tackle mold removal on their own, as a remediation company can ensure all mold in the home is removed, and the space is safe and free of any harmful contaminants. Here is a quick look at what a company will do to eliminate the presence of black mold.

Initial Evaluation

Whether it is residential or commercial mold damage, the first step is to determine the extent of the water damage and confirm the presence of mold growth. Most homeowners are first alerted to a problem as a result of a smelly odor that smells like mildew and fungus. Once the company confirms the amount of mold growth present, they will then use dehumidifiers to provide deodorization and reduce the presence of the smelly odor. They will also determine what structural components have been compromised as a result of the water or mold in the home.

Water Removal

The next step of Mold removal is to remove any of the water that caused the damage. Most commercial mold damage remediation companies will use high powered extraction machines to make quick work of water removal, which can help reduce the smelly odor through the use of deodorization technology. They will also determine if there is any mold growth behind walls in the house and use meters to test for the presence of fungus and mildew. Once the water mitigation is complete, they will then begin the process of Mold removal.

Mold Mitigation

The first step in eliminating black mold, mildew, or fungus, is to spray the contaminated areas with a concentrated chemical that will kill and retard the mold growth. It is important that a homeowner not run any HVAC systems in the home, as this can cause the mold growth to be spread throughout the house and increase the amount of mold in the home. The chemical used to kill the mold growth will also contain deodorization properties which will help reduce the smelly odor. Once the mold has been sprayed, the next step is to utilize commercial air drying equipment to remove the presence of moisture in the air, which can help prevent black mold from spreading throughout a home.

Structural Repairs

Any mold growth behind walls will require the remediation company to remove the affected areas, so they can expose the internal structure and conduct additional tests for the presence of fungus or black mold. Once the Mold damage has been removed, they will then begin the process of rebuilding the structure. This will include replacing any wood that is plagued with dry rot and replacing any drywall or surfaces that are covered in black mold or mildew. A restoration company will work with a contractor to ensure a home is restored after the remediation has been completed.

Final Testing

Once all of the mold growth behind walls and Mold damage has been removed, and any dry rot has been repaired, the restoration company will then conduct a final test to ensure that the mitigation was successful. In addition to testing the surfaces in a home for the presence of water or mold growth behind walls, they will also check the air for the presence of airborne spores. Once the test is completed, the restoration company will then clear the home and allow the family to move back in. No matter if it is residential or commercial mold damage, it is important that a final safety test is completed.

Mold damage can lead to dry rot and severe structural issues if proper techniques are not used during remediation. Whether it is mold in the home or commercial mold damage a professional company can use advanced deodorization techniques to remove the foul odor and ensure any dry rot is repaired. Mold damage should not be taken lightly. Be sure to contact a mitigation company, as they can restore a property quickly and easily.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on mold.

The Secrets of Professional Flood Damage Repair

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

The Secrets of Professional Flood Damage Repair

While a pipe break might seem like a minor problem in your home, it can cause significant water damage that might require some expensive restoration activities. Dealing with flood damage is a tedious exercise that involves pinpointing the supply line break, plumbing repair, water cleanup, and sanitization. Undertaking the restoration of the property without disinfecting the surfaces is futile since the contaminants will remain the in property. If the supply line break is bringing foul water to the home, you cannot start the sanitization process without handling the pipe break. Another way to eliminate the foul water from contaminating the house is to invest in some backflow preventers. These backflow preventers can restrict the foul water from getting into your building when the drains block.

Safety precautions

Before you enter the flooded home, you need an electrician to check whether it is safe to do so. A flooded home might cause some risks that include electrical shocks and exposure to the contaminants. As you begin the water cleanup, drying, and the minor repairs, be sure to take these precautions seriously. Once these professionals have eliminated the threats of contamination and electrocution, you can start pumping the water out. Remember that the water damage escalates with time and that you can minimize the destruction by acting swiftly. An emergency restoration company can come in handy when it comes to addressing the supply line break, stopping the leakages, water cleanup, and drying the property after flood damage.


Flood mitigation involves understanding the risks and taking some measures to avert them. For example, the best mitigation procedure is to ensure that the storm water can flow to the municipal drains easily. A foundation crack can cause the amount of water in business basements to increase significantly. As you tackle the water damage, inspect your drainage system or modify the slope of your home to facilitate the flow of storm water. While it is difficult to prevent flooding in the neighborhood, you can protect your home by adhering to the requisite mitigation measures. Take the following mitigation initiatives to protect your home from water damage:

• Avoiding the plumbing leaks by repairing a pipe break quickly
• Repairing a clogged toilet that can lead to the contamination of your flooded home
• Drying the moisture in the air and water behind the walls
• Engaging a restoration company to repair the roof
• Hiring a reputable restoration company to repair the foundation cracks

Besides the pipe break, a leaky roof can also cause some water damage in the house. The hardwood floors in a flooded home are at risk of warping and rotting. As such, drying the water in business laminate floors is extremely vital. The water in home bathrooms can flow into the lounge if you have some leaky faucets. Since the water in business floors can be destructive, drying the floor is a priority. The excess water in home switches can cause some electrical faults that are extremely risky. Besides, the water in home crawlspaces can cause the spread of molds in the house. Whether you are dealing with a flooded home or the seepage of water in business premises, you need a reputable flood damage restoration company to undertake the repairs and suggest the key mitigation measures. A pipe break should be repaired fast if you want to safeguard your home against such problems in the future.


Decontamination is a vital process when drying the home since you want to get rid of the germs. A flooded home requires thorough water cleanup before you start renovating. Beware of the supply line break that might continue to leak during the restoration process. You will never handle the water in home bathrooms and kitchens if you do not consider such issues during the restoration process. As you begin rebuilding your home, ensure that you install several drainage channels to facilitate the flow of storm water in the future.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on water damage.

What to Do After a Kitchen Fire

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

What to Do After a Kitchen Fire

A fire in a home kitchen is one of the scariest things you may ever experience. The most common reason for this type of fire is a cooking accident. If an oil fire breaks out, you grab water and toss it on the fire, you'll notice the flames jumping and spreading to your cabinets and across your kitchen. This can be as scary as a fire in a business or in your bedroom. Once the flames go out, you can turn to a fire damage restoration business to get help with the cleaning up the fire damage and taking care of your kitchen.

Block Off Access

Before you focus too much on the smoke damage or soot damage, you'll want to block off access to your kitchen. Depending on the severity of the fire damage, you may need to board up the kitchen until you take care of the fire cleanup. Limiting access to the room keeps your pets from playing in the fresh soot and stops your kids from tracking gray ash through your home. You can board up the room until a restoration company comes in or let a fire damage restoration company do it for you.

Get an Inspection

The inspection is easily one of the most important steps in the fire cleanup process. It's just as important after you suffer residential damage as it is after commercial fire damage. This inspection is so important because it's impossible for you to see if there is structural damage inside the walls. When doing a residential or commercial fire damage inspection, the company will let you know how you can get rid of the smoke smell and what fire cleanup tasks you can do on your own.

Take Care of Water Damage

A fire in a home kitchen can cause smoke damage as well as water damage, which is something that most people who own homes do not think about. The heavy hoses that fire fighters use will put out the fire but will also leave behind both standing water and water marks. That water can maker the smoke smell worse and cause more soot damage because it helps the soot spread. Fire cleanup companies can repair water damage after you experience residential or commercial fire damage.

Replace Appliances

One step in the fire damage restoration process that you might not consider is what happens to your appliances. A restoration company can help you board up your kitchen, take care of fire damage and take your old appliances outside. These companies can do the same thing after a fire in a business. Smaller appliances like a toaster or coffeemaker can pick up the smoke smell that hangs in the air and make that smell stick to your food. Larger appliances like your stove and refrigerator can suffer from visible smoke damage or soot damage too.

Deal with Smoke and Soot

After a fire in home or a fire in business experience, property owners need to deal with both smoke damage and soot damage. Soot refers to the thick gray and black ash that you see, but smoke damage can go deep inside your walls and cause the smoke smell to move from your kitchen to other rooms in your home. A restoration company can offer fire damage services that eliminate all lingering odors and get rid of the soot clinging to your walls too.

While fires are scary, fire damage restoration services can help you save your home. You can get help with residential or commercial fire damage, including the removal of soot from the walls and the thick smell of smoke that hands in the air. If you lived through a fire in home or fire in business experience that did damage to your residential or commercial kitchen, call a restoration company for an inspection and a quote. The right company will even board up your kitchen until work begins.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on fire damage.

There's Mold Damage at Home: What Do I Do?

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

There's Mold Damage at Home: What Do I Do?

Anyone who finds mold at home, signs of mold at home, or goes through any form of flooding must call for professional mold remediation and mitigation right away. It’s a job that must be handled professionally as it’s never safe to attempt DIY mold removal at any level. Experience, knowledge, and the proper equipment is what’s required to deal with mold damage. Mold damage of any kind requires professional mold removal every time.

Is There Mold in the Home Or Commercial Mold Damage Present?

Commercial mold damage as well as mold in the home are both very real problems. Some people have no idea there is mold growth in a building, and that’s even more dangerous. One of the biggest problems is mold growth behind walls because it often takes weeks or even months to discover. Mold growth behind walls is not evident, doesn’t provide much evidence of its presence, and it might take a smelly odor no amount of deodorization will remove.

Home and business owners use deodorization to handle all kinds of smelly odor issues in buildings. When deodorization doesn’t work permanently to get rid of musty smells, it’s likely a sign of mold growth behind walls. The smelly odor is often the first piece of evidence, and the lack of effectiveness from deodorization is disturbing. Anyone who suspects there is mold growth behind walls at home or work must call for professional mold removal immediately.

Another way to determine if mold is in the home is through the presence of mildew or another fungus. Mildew grows very similarly to mold, and mildew might indicate this fungus could also be present. Mildew needs the kind of hot air and moist environment fungus such as mold needs, and that’s why mildew shouldn’t be ignored.

Dry rot indicates the possibility of mold, too. Dry rot requires moisture to set into surfaces without any help, and it means moisture is present. If moisture is present long enough to allow dry rot to set it, mold growth is probably an issue. Aside from dry rot, leaks and floods are also indicative of mold damage in need of a restoration company to come take a look.

Anyone questioning whether there is mold in the home or commercial mold damage at work should check for dry rot, fungus, mildew, black mold, a smelly odor, and they must take note when deodorization efforts fail. They must also forgo any attempt to remove mold on their own.

Health Risks Associated with Mold in the Home

There are a few reasons no one should try mold removal on their own. The use of a professional restoration company is required for both mitigation and remediation. When mold is ignored, it can cause health issues. It takes very little time to grow and spread, and mold in large quantities is often toxic. It causes breathing issues, it is bad for those people living with asthma and/or allergies, and it can cause health problems in addition to that.

Professional remediation and mitigation is not a suggestion. Professional remediation and mitigation is required. Do not attempt to ever remove mold without the help of professionals, as it can make it spread more rapidly. Never disturb mold spores because they only grow faster and move more quickly.

How to Handle Commercial Mold Damage or Mold at Home

If anyone notices mold growth in the home or commercial mold damage, take the overly cautious route and assume it’s toxic black mold. Call a restoration company to discuss mitigation and remediation, and promptly shut down the HVAC system. Mold spores in the air are more easily spread from room to room through the HVAC system.

If mold damage hasn’t occurred but a flood has, get the water out immediately. Call a water restoration company for this, and get the job done right away. It's best to assume any mold growth is toxic black mold and handle it with care. It takes mold less than three days to spread rapidly, and it’s dangerous. It might not be black mold that’s a problem, but even regular mold has the opportunity to become toxic. Do not clean mold without help, and do not try to get rid of mold without professionals present.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on mold.

Making Progress With Water Damage

6/29/2017 (Permalink)

Making Progress With Water Damage

Restoring property due to water damage can be a serious hassle due to the costly repairs necessary and the immense property destruction that it may cause. When facing damage due to water in the home or water in a business, there are a few steps that are necessary to take in order to completely resolve the issue quickly and effectively. With water cleanup, the first option is to contact the restoration company of your choice, who are normally equipped to handle a myriad of causes that initiate property damage including, fires, flooding, water damage and sewage backup. These restoration companies are only responsible for cleaning up the initial mess created by the water damage, and a separate contractor may need to be contacted for physical repairs unless they have attained a license for repairs with the state of origin. Due to the unpredictable nature of water damage, many restoration companies are available 24 hours a day.

Water damage can be an intense emotional stressor due to the seriousness of the unfortunate event and it is important to seek professional assistance immediately for the mitigation of further damage. There are a few important factors to list when contacting a restoration company including, your contact and insurance information, the cause of the flood damage, and whether there is standing water in the home. Most insurance companies and claims adjusters have a working relationship with the companies designed for restoring the affected home or business and may recommend a few credible options. Reviewing the insurance policy will keep the policy-holder abreast of their individual responsibilities while continuing damage mitigation. Water in the home and water in a business can have a myriad of side-effects and processes to consider. One of the most imperative factors to consider mentioning when speaking with a qualified professional is the availability of electricity in the facility, as this can become a major hazard for the residents, as well as those hired to complete the restoration.

Before property restoration can be initiated, a detailed inspection must take place in order to assess the flood damage. Once the flood damage is properly assessed, the cleanup company will begin refurbishment. The source of the property damage must be identified, if there isn’t an outside factor, such as inclement weather, as this will help to expedite the process while also helping in the mitigation of further issues that will increase costs of repair. While alleviating the source of the damage is essential in the process, checking for water contamination is also imperative, as this can become a lingering problem even after repairs are complete if as soon as possible.

Water cleanup begins with the water extraction process. Any items that may obstruct the water cleanup and drying process must be removed immediately for safety and the salvaging of any products that may be saved. The excess water will be removed with the usage of pumps that are submerged in the standing water and then vacuumed by industrial hardware, before proceeding with the drying process. Industrial tools, such as gas-powered pumps, infrared cameras, and moisture detectors, may be necessary to identify and alleviate flood damage that may not initially be visible. Professional assistance is always a necessity when tackling this issue. Water cleanup and drying time will vary based on the severity of the water in the home or water in the business. Part of the drying process is dehumidifying the affected areas as quickly as possible in order to avoid mold buildup. An antimicrobial treatment may be necessary for the event of suspected contaminated water in the home. The progress of the drying should be monitored over time with specialized meters in order to assure that initial quality is fully restored. Mitigation of damages is the primary objective when addressing water in the home or water in the business, and attacking these issues are essential for the mitigation of costs.
Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on water damage.

What You Shouldn't Do if You Have Mold Damage in Your Home or Business

6/29/2017 (Permalink)

What You Shouldn't Do if You Have Mold Damage in Your Home or Business

If you have seen fungus, mildew or mold in your home or business, you could be wondering what you should do next. There are many tell-tale signs that you might have mold somewhere on your property, from noticing a smelly odor to seeing the signs with your own two eyes. If you do happen to notice mold in the home or commercial property -- or fungus or mildew -- there are a few things that you should not do. These are a few of them. A commercial mold damage entails having to deal with owners, managers, and clientele.

Ignore the Problem

Some people make the mistake of ignoring mold damage and not focusing on mold removal right away. You might think that following basic deodorization techniques will help you get rid of the smelly odor, for example, or you might think that simply wiping the mold, mildew and fungus that you see away will get rid of the problem. When you might have so many other things to worry about. It can be easy to ignore mold in the home or commercial property but something must be done about it.

It is important to take mold damage very seriously and to focus on mold removal, mitigation and remediation with the help of a professional mold remediation company. This is important for a few reasons.

First of all, you might not think that the mold is actually that big of a deal. You might think that with a little bit of deodorization and mitigation, no one will really know the difference. However, mold spores can actually be hazardous for you to breathe in, particularly if you have allergies. They can also pose a danger for the others who live in your home or for those who visit your place of business, if you are dealing with a commercial mold damage.

Also, if you ignore mold, you shouldn't assume that the problem will go away on its own. The opposite is actually true: the problem is only going to get worse without proper mold removal, mitigation and remediation techniques, and these things go beyond deodorization to get rid of the smelly odor. If all of the mold damage is not handled, it is only going to grow and spread. Therefore, ignoring the issue is probably one of the very worse things that you can do.

As a homeowner, you might find yourself dealing with household issues all the time. The same might be true if you are a business owner; you might go around and make a lot of your own repairs and improvements when possible. There is certainly nothing wrong with handling basic things on your own around your home or commercial property, but fungus, mildew and mold removal are not things that you should do on your own. Instead, it is best to work with a company that specializes in mold damage and that can help with mitigation and remediation.

This is because many at-home remedies that a lot of people follow just don't work when it comes to completely getting rid of mold. There might be tips and tricks out there that work for deodorization and getting rid of the smelly odor, for example, but this only helps cover up the problem. Even if you are effective at getting rid of the mold that you can see, there is a good chance that there is more mold growing in areas that you are not aware of.

Mold damage is not something that you should take lightly. If you avoid making these mistakes and if you work with a removal company that knows what it is doing, however, you should not have to worry. Then, you can ensure that the mold problem is taken care of as quickly and effectively as possible, and you can help avoid permanent damage to your home or commercial property.

Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on mold damage.

How To Handle Flood Damage In Your Home Or Business

5/29/2017 (Permalink)

How To Handle Flood Damage In Your Home Or Business

If you're unfortunate enough to have flood or water damage in your residential or commercial property, you need to take action immediately.

Flood water in home or business can be due to a non-functioning sump pump, faulty plumbing, or a frozen pipe, and every second counts. It is important that you act fast to prevent serious and long-lasting damage.

Call Professionals Immediately

Call water damage restoration services as soon as flood damage occurs. Professionals are available and will respond any time and they will provide water cleanup, drying and restoration service. Professionals will take care of your mitigation needs, quickly.

When a burst pipe leaves your flooded, or a storm causes serious issues in your home or business, getting water damage mitigation services from a reputable company should be your top priority. It is important to choose professionals that are well trained and qualified to provide the service. You should should be cautious of who you hire for the job, as an untrained person may make the situation worse, resulting further damage to the property.

Shut Off The Water Supply

While waiting for the professionals to arrive, try and shut your water off and keep in mind that if the source of the problem is in the sewer system, don’t run washing machines, dishwashers or other appliances, and don’t flush the toilets.

The following are the basic steps used by mitigation professionals for water cleanup and drying.

1. Identify the Source of the Flooding

Some sources of flooding can be easily identified, and others are not so obvious. In either case, the first step is to ascertain the source of the flooding. Once the professionals find the source of the water in business or home, they can deal with accordingly.

If it's a broken pipe that caused water in home or water in business they will block it and shut off the water main. If it's a malfunctioning appliance they will turn it off and drain it. If an open window is allowing in flood water it will be sealed.

Experienced professionals will fix the problem and draft a mitigation plan based on the severity of flooding and damage.

2. Call Your Insurance Company

You should also contact your insurance provider immediately about water damage coverage. You can find out information about insurance coverage options for water in home or water in business and what you should do. Restoration professionals will also report the damage to your insurance provider to help determine coverage options.

3. Begin The Restoration

Reliable water cleanup and mitigation professions begin the flood restoration right after the initial evaluation. For water extraction, professionals use powerful water extraction equipment, and dehumidifiers to get rid of unwanted water and moisture from furnishings, flooring, and other the affected materials.

The carpet is often vulnerable to water damage and the excess water it absorbs can cause severe damage to the backing and fibers while also encouraging the occurrence of mold growth. To prevent mold and bacterial growth, professionals take appropriate steps to evaluate the damage to the carpet and padding and restore what can be saved.

4. Cleaning And Disinfection

Once the water cleanup has been done, the next step is to disinfect the area. Flood water can contain bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. Once the water is removed, restoration professionals use state-of-art equipment and advanced cleaning products and supplies to sanitize the affected area and materials.

5. Drying Process

After the water in business or water in home is removed, reputable flood damage professionals set up their large fans and advanced drying equipment to dry the wet materials. Air movers and dehumidifiers are placed around the materials and areas affected by the flood. They also use advanced air scrubbers to eliminate odors and remove contaminants from the air. This process can take anywhere from 24 hours to several days to complete.

Flood damage professionals have the knowledge and the necessary equipment to handle the job. They can ensure that your your property is restored to where it was before the water damage incident. Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on water damage.

How Professionals Handle Fire Damage Restoration

5/29/2017 (Permalink)

How Professionals Handle Fire Damage Restoration

Fire damage restoration service is required when there is fire in home or fire in business. If you have experienced a fire in your residential or commercial property, it is imperative to call a fire cleanup company immediately.

Fire cleanup and repair must begin immediately in order to prevent further problems. The longer you wait, the better chances of mildew and mold growth to occur from fire and water damage. The appearance of mildew and mold can be problematic and dangerous for fire cleanup efforts.

Hire Professional Fire Restoration Service

Hiring a professional service for a fire damage event is the most important action to take. Reputable fire damage companies have a team of qualified professionals who are fully trained and certified to provide fire cleanup. They have the licensing, equipment and experience to handle any issues related to fire in home or fire in business and fire restoration project.

With knowledge and compassion, reliable professionals respond quickly, understanding that a fire in home or fire in business is an emergency situation.

Here are the basic steps taken by fire damage restoration companies to provide fire cleanup after fire damage.

Urgent Response

When the fire in home or fire in business is out, fire and smoke damage repairs must begin as soon as possible to maximize effectiveness. Professionals arrive at the location and quickly move into action to remove the smoke smell and address other urgent matters.

Recognizing the trauma and stress that occupants experience, fire damage restoration professionals work quickly and effectively to mitigate damage, including soot damage and smoke damage. They work on salvageable property and materials, such as metals, fixtures, household items and other contents. Their state-of-the-art equipment and advanced cleaning processes and techniques enable them to prevent replacement costs, leading to reduced costs.

Accurate Assessment

Certified fire damage restoration professionals assess the situation to determine the residential or commercial fire damage mitigation needs. They assess the impact of fire damage, including soot damage and smoke damage. They keep you informed, helping to overcome your loss and explaining their cleanup process in a way you can understand what they're doing, and what to expect when the project is completed.

The damage assessment usually involves examining both inside and outside of your property to give you an estimate for the repair, cleaning and restoration costs.

Thorough Treatment

When necessary, residential or commercial fire damage treatment may include smoke smell removal, complete fire damage and soot damage cleaning and sanitation, duct and air vent cleaning, and professional deodorization.

They begin the process by removing water, ash, and soot. To accomplish this, professionals use specialized equipment, like vacuum cleaners, dehumidifiers, and air movers. Water and smoke can soak the carpeting and seep into drywall. If so, they will remove these materials to eliminate the smoky smell.

They handle your property and belongings with utmost care and respect as if it was their own. Whether it's a residential or commercial fire damage event, experienced and reputable professionals take extra care to remove all of the smoke smell and protect your property.

Avoid The Stress And Inconvenience

A comprehensive fire clean-up and damage restoration service can reverse much of the impact of fire and soot damage. Cleanup, repairs and restoration with a reputable team of professionals can make a very frustrating event much less unpleasant.

Regardless of the extent of the damage, hiring certified professionals to handle the repair and restoration of your home or commercial property is worth the cost to help bring things back to normal.

Considerations

Residential or commercial fire damage can be a devastating incident. Fire cleanup and getting rid of smoke smell require knowledge and skill and trained technicians have the expertise to provide the service. If your home or business has suffered a fire damage, you can rely on qualified professionals to mitigate damage, including soot damage and smoke damage. Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on fire damage.

Navigating the Mold Remediation Process

5/29/2017 (Permalink)

Navigating the Mold Remediation Process

Suspecting mold in the home? Now what? Firstly, is it really mold or is it mildew? Mildew is a gray or whitish colored fungus that usually grows in a flat pattern on a surface.There are no known benefits of this type of fungus. It can be easily cleaned with a cleaner specifically for cleaning up mildew, a cleaning rag or scrub brush. It's not known to cause significant damage.

Mildew may have a smelly odor so good deodorization wouldn’t hurt. Mold is usually green or black but can also be other colors. It can also appear to be fuzzy. Mold, also a fungus, can have some benefits such as being used to make the antibiotic Penicillin. Mold in the home may also put off a musty, smelly odor so deodorization may be necessary as well. Mold's damage can be significant.

Next, understand terms associated with the process.
Mold mitigation is the measure taken to help minimize the cause of the problem. Mitigation helps isolate the problem to prevent further mold damage. Sometimes seeking a professional to help with the mitigation process is necessary.

Mold removal basically involves removing mold from in the home or business. However, mold occurs naturally and cannot be completely removed from any environment. Mold is a microscopic spore that easily travels through the air. The damage can be costly so mold remediation and mold removal are necessary. Mold remediation is the clean-up process.

The first step in the mold remediation process is to find the source of the problem. For mold to grow, there has to be a water source. Evaluate the area. More than likely, there is a leak from the plumbing in a wall or under a sink or an excessive condensation. In many instances, mold damage can be seen on the surface or there will be a lingering musty, smelly odor. The smelly odor may be traced to a specific area but the mold may not be visible until walls or floors are opened up. Deodorization will not be effective.

Second, gather supplies. It’s recommended to use thick sheet plastic, duct tape, an N-95 mask, rubber gloves, plastic trash bags, hand tools or power tools, a negative air machine, an air tester, a vacuum with a HEPA filter and supplies for whatever is being replaced like the drywall.

Third, put on all protective gear. After using the protective gear, wash in very hot water or dispose of it in a sealed trash bag.

Fourth, prepare the area. Cover or remove items around the affected area with plastic. Seal off the area with the plastic and duct tape. Set up the negative air pressure machine and air tester.

Fifth, mold removal. Spray the surface with the water from the water bottle to help minimize the mold from becoming airborne during the removal process. Use the vacuum to suck up any particles that do become airborne. Be sure to seal up the trash bags before taking them through your house to be disposed of.

Sixth, clean any non-porous surfaces like metal, plastic, tile, tubs and glass. Some porous surfaces cannot be easily cleaned, such as beams or studs in a wall or floor. In that case, clean as much as possible then use a product that encapsulates the mold, keeps it from spreading and kills it.

Seventh, make repairs. Replace the sheetrock, drywall or other material that was damaged by the mold.
Eighth, cleanup and deodorization. Dispose of all plastic, tape, clothing, etc. that can not be cleaned, securely in trash bags.

Mold and mildew may seem similar but the consequences and clean up are very different. Navigating the mold remediation and mold removal process doesn’t have to be intimidating. First, establish mitigation to stop the fungus and prevent further mold damage. Second, begin remediation and third, remove the mold. Preventing mold in the home is the key. Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on mold damage.

Is There Water in Your Home or Business?

4/26/2017 (Permalink)

Is There Water in Your Home or Business?

Step 1

Emergency Contact 

This is to a plumber in an active leak, but in every other case of water in the home or water in the business, the very next contact should be a professional water damage restoration company. This call will initiate a protocol that will return the home or business to its proper functioning status. The quick action of contacting a water damage restoration service is a function of mitigation also. Mitigation is the act of preventing as much water damage as possible by acting both to find and fix the leak, but also in the water cleanup effort. Most insurance companies mandate a policy of mitigation that is the incumbent responsibility if the homeowner or business owner that has water in the home or water in the business.

Step 2

Inspection and Flood Damage Assessment

The water damage restoration company chosen will send a professional technician to inspect and assess the flood damage. These professional crew arrives ready to institute some drastic water cleanup techniques in the initial visit in order to begin mitigation and eventuality water cleanup, drying and restoration immediately in order to satisfy the insurance mitigation requirement, but also to give home and business owners the best chance at recovering and saving items affected by the flood damage.

Step 3

Water Removal and Extraction

This portion of the process removes the physical water, but it also may involve limiting the effects of water damage on certain portions of the home. This means that portions of the home or building must be removed to effectively remove the water. Commonly, this means removing the lower portion of Sheetrock or other wall covering to promote the drying step that follows. and to prevent wicking. Wicking occurs when the water damage creeps up walls because of prolonged contact.

Step 4

Drying, Dehumidification, Air Movement

After the actual water is removed, there is still an extreme amount of water left in the form of moisture. Experienced companies use industrial strength dehumidifiers and improved air movement equipment and techniques to promote the drying process of the water cleanup. In this portion of the process, air movement is key.

Step 5

Cleaning and Sanitizing after Flood Damage

This is an important step in the water damage recovery effort. This steps is only incurred once the home is sufficiently dry. Some forms of water damage are very toxic, and the sanitation step becomes infinitely more important. In lesser cases, the act of drying and improved air movement will eliminate any possibilities of contamination, molds and mildews.

Step 6

Restoration. This final step involves repairing any physical structures either damaged in the flood or removed to promote air circulation to their pre-flood condition. In order for many of the restoration efforts to be successful, a professional restoration company will have to have rendered the establishment completely dry. Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on water damage.

Staying Safe When You Discover Water Damage In Your Home

4/26/2017 (Permalink)

Staying Safe When You Discover Water Damage In Your Home

A home or business that's been damaged by water can be very difficult to clean up. Most times water damage is very unexpected and while you can't always be prepared for it, there are tips you can follow that can make mitigation much easier. But when it comes to the water damage restoration process itself you should let only a professional water cleanup company handle that as they are trained in safety and cleanup efficiency.

The first step is to pay attention to any areas of your home or business that seem to be even a little damp. If you've noticed puddles on the floor, any drips no matter how small coming from the ceilings, wet spots on the walls or mold gathering anywhere you need to act immediately. Maybe you're worried about calling a water cleanup company because you think it will be too much money to fix the problem, but the truth is as more water in your home or water in your business accumulates from leaks the more prone your home's structure will be to major damage. You don't want to get injured from a floor or ceiling that collapses or breathe the fumes of toxins caused by flood damage.

Second, you should open any windows or outdoor vents in your home that could help with drying and air movement in areas where flooring or appliances have been subjected to flood damage. You should not attempt to dry out water in your home or water in your business by turning on the building's central heating, using space heaters or hair dryers as that could create a hazardous situation. You also shouldn't attempt to unplug appliances or cut off electric circuit breakers if water damage has affected the area around them. If the flood damage is very severe and you notice any strange smells, you should probably evacuate your home immediately.

It's good to find a reputable water damage restoration company that can speed up the mitigation process. You should look for a company that has positive reviews, is certified in water damage restoration and uses professional tools for maximum drying and air movement. When you have too much water in your home or water in your business the water cleanup company might be able to recommend a removal process for your belongings, and some companies are also connected to a repair companies for special items such as electronics and appliances need repairs after drying.

Water damage mitigation could take a few hours or a few days depending on the extent of the mess, but usually once there's been adequate drying and proper air movement the flood damage company will disinfect and remove mold plus dehumidify areas where there was water in a home or water in a business. Some areas such as dark corners of basements or attics may need additional air movement due to mold collecting in greater quantities in those areas. Water cleanup and flood mitigation are never easy to deal with, but staying calm and calling the right water damage restoration company is always the best first step in addressing water damage. Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on water damage.

Why Repair Fire Damage So Quickly?

4/26/2017 (Permalink)

Why Repair Fire Damage So Quickly?

Fire damage and a fire loss may be repaired by a fire cleanup crew in a few short days, and it is easier to contact the commercial fire damage company when the fire is still raging. The fire damage repair crew will turn up at once, and they will begin the process of repairing the home. There are fire in home and fire in business problems that may be repaired at once, and a much larger commercial fire damage repair job may be done at the same time. This article shows how soot damage and smoke damage may be removed, and there are many people who see their house return to normal.

#1: How Bad Was The Fire?

The fire cleanup company will arrive with a large staff, and they will assess the fire loss for what it is. They must check all the fire damage around the home, and they must continue to check the fire loss until it has been cleaned completely. Air quality tests are a part of the assessment, and air quality will change when soot damage or smoke damage is removed from the home.

#2: Fire In Home

Fire in home problems may occur in apartments or single-family units, and the commercial fire damage company knows how to repair each problem quickly. They have seen fire in home issues many times, and they wish to ensure that the home is livable again. They will spend quite a lot of time showing customers how their home may be repaired.

#3: Fire In Business

Fire in business damages represent such a large fire loss that it may send soot damage and smoke damage to every part of the building. The building may be such a difficult place to clean that the fire cleanup crew will need more time to do their work, and the air quality tests may take more time to repair. The building must be scraped clean of soot damage and smoke damage, and there are many people who will need fire in business repairs to last for weeks.

#4: Fire In Home

Fire in home repairs are far more important as they will ensure the homeowner may come back into the house as quickly as possible. The fire cleanup crew will operate on a smaller scale, and they will look over the loss to ensure it has not caused structural damage. The commercial fire damage crew will repair all fire damage, and they will solve soot damage and smoke damage problems that may have occurred.

#5: Air Quality Tests

The fire cleanup crew will do air quality tests many times, and they will add air quality tests to their fire damage repair plan. They know that they must complete this for any fire in business or home, and they will tend to the fire loss until they have seen a difference.

The commercial fire damage company will come to the house as soon as possible, and they will make a change in the house that makes it look perfect again. Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on fire damage.

How To Stop Fire Damage From Ruining A Building

4/26/2017 (Permalink)

How To Stop Fire Damage From Ruining A Building

Anyone who has been through a fire loss must hire a company to help them ensure that they repaired the house properly, and they will discover there are many things that must be done. Fire damage is quite a problem, and it will come with soot damage and smoke damage that makes the house that much harder to clean. This article explains how someone may make a change in the house after a fire loss, and they will have a fire cleanup company on the scene at once.

#1: The Fire Cleanup Crew

The fire cleanup crew will respond to any fire damage or fire loss emergency. They will work quite hard to ensure that they have cleaned all the soot damage and smoke damage, and they will implement an air quality test. A commercial fire damage company knows how to help with air quality tests, and they know how to check the house after fire damage has happened. There are many fire cleanup problems that must be addressed, and it is far easier for the company to clean up before they begin their commercial fire damage repair process.

#2: There Are Many Problems To Cure

Fire in home and fire in business damage must be cleaned by the commercial fire damage company, and they will show the homeowner how simple it is to ensure the house is cleaned out completely. They use a plan for fire in home that is simplified, and they will use an expanded plan for fire in business losses. The fire loss must be attacked with a number of tools and materials, and the fire cleanup crew will begin work immediately.

#3: Cleaning Out Soot Damage And Smoke Damage

Cleaning out soot damage and smoke damage is quite simple, and fire damage will leave quite sa bit of it littered around the house. The air quality tests that follow will show how effective the company has been, and the company will adjust the work they are doing based on their air quality tests. The homeowner will know that the house is safe to enter after many air quality tests, and their fire in home repairs may continue.

#4: Fire In Business

Fire in business issues are handled in a similar manner, and the expanded plan for a fire in business loss will see the commercial fire damage company show up with many more people. They will use more advanced tools, and they will search for a simpler way to return the space to the appearance that it once had. Fire in home repairs are much faster, and the company has prepared to complete their fire in business repairs in the same amount of time.

Fire damage and fire loss must be handled by a commercial fire damage company at once, and they will take away all soot damage and smoke damage they have found. Everything from a fire in home loss to a massive loss at a business may be repaired, cleaned and returned to normal. Visit http://www.SERVPROnesaltlakecityparkcity.com for more information on fire damage.