How Creating an Emergency Plan for Your Business Can Help Prevent Losses | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

7/3/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is Here to Help® your business prepare for disaster with an updated ERP!

As a business owner, ensuring the safety of your employees and protecting your assets are top priorities. One essential step in achieving this is by having a comprehensive emergency plan. For businesses in Oklahoma City, being prepared is especially crucial given the region’s susceptibility to natural disasters. SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is Here to Help® you understand how an emergency plan can prevent losses and keep your business running smoothly.

Preparing Your Home for Thunderstorms | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

6/17/2024 (Permalink)

Whether its storm damage cleanup or restoration, SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is ready to respond in a moments notice to your call.

Grilling and Fire Pit Safety Tips for Homeowners: Protect Your Property | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

6/3/2024 (Permalink)

Gather around the grill, but don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City to ensure a fun and safe night.

In the heart of Oklahoma City, where the warmth of community gatherings often revolves around grilling, fire pits, and campfires, safety should always be a top priority. As homeowners, it’s crucial to enjoy these activities responsibly to prevent accidents and property damage. Here are some essential tips to keep your outdoor festivities safe and enjoyable, brought to you by SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City.

Storm Planning to Keep Everyone Calm | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City to help you recover.

Thunder starts to boom and lightning brightens your entire house while the kids are hiding out and the dog won’t get out from under your feet—a storm is ready to strike. In the midst of what can feel like chaos, knowing how to stay safe can feel challenging.

Tornadoes can be quite common in our area, but even the most seasoned Oklahoman can be caught off-guard when things start to get serious. With the threat of strong thunderstorms, heavy rains and intense winds another constant in our community, making a plan is crucial.

With a solid, well-rehearsed emergency plan, you can keep your entire family calm and safe.

Water Leaks and the Stinky Situation They Cause | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City to provide comprehensive services for a full recovery for all your water damage restoration needs.

Is there anything worse than stepping into a room and finding yourself standing in a puddle of water? Whether it was the dishwasher flooding your kitchen floor or a window that was accidentally left open, a leak in your home is no fun.

If you have ever thought to yourself, “well, it is just water,” you need to understand that water damage can happen quickly and be far more destructive than you may think.

The faster you can call in the pros when water damage happens in your home, the better. We will tackle the whole stinky situation that a water leak can cause.

Simple Restoration, Simple Insurance Claims | SERVPRO of Houston County

4/15/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is Here to Help® with your business' disaster recovery!

Living through a disaster can make your head feel like it is spinning. With a million thoughts all happening at once, you might only be able to focus on the safety of your family and the security of your home.

While you try to make sense of what has happened, considering what to tell your insurance company may not even pass through your mind. When it comes to disaster recovery, though, the sooner you can get things started, the better.

Our team is here to help you put everything back together—even the things you might not have thought about.

Getting Down to the Basics of Flood Prevention | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

4/1/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is ready to help in a moments notice after spring showers leak in to your home or business.

When you want to do something well, you need to first focus on the basics. If you have kids and have ever had to help with math homework, you already know that learning the basics is the only way to succeed—and walk away from the homework table tear-free.

Getting down to the basics is a good way to protect your home from potential disasters, too. We might not be able to stop Mother Nature from sharing her darker side with us, but when our homes are prepared, we can mitigate our losses and recover faster.

Every year around the nation, homes are damaged in flooding. Since it is one of the most common kinds of home damage, it is crucial we cover the basics of flood protection for our homes and our families.

Handling a Sewage Leak | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

3/15/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is always ready to respond to your call when biohazard incidents strike.

Finding a sewage leak in your home or place of business might be one of the most frustrating situations you will ever have to deal with. This kind of leak may not do as much damage as some other disasters, but it will be one of the messiest and stinkiest disasters that could strike.

It is actually one of the more commonly occurring disasters, and it can affect anyone. The best way to get through a sewage leak is by learning how to quickly and safely respond in order to keep things under control.

Spring Storm Prep | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City help you get from April showers to May flowers.

Spring is here, which means more time outdoors—at least, when it isn’t raining. Spring in Oklahoma may bring plenty of new flowers, but it also brings heavy rains and thunderstorms.

The further we get into the spring season, the stronger storms can become. Tornadoes are also a reality. With severe weather a real possibility this time of the year, it is crucial to be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws our way.

Receiving weather alerts and staying up to date on severe storm situations can save your life when things are getting intense. There are plenty of ways to keep you and your family safe through every weather event.

What to Do After a Disaster Strikes | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

2/15/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is here for your business every step of the way, from ERPs to disaster recovery.

Disasters can be a real whirlwind. In a matter of seconds, your home, community and business can all be left damaged, leaving you wondering where to even begin recovery.

Getting your home put back together after a disaster strikes is crucial, but when you own a business, so is getting back to work. With a good plan in place and our professional staff at SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City right around the corner, you can get every part of your life put back together quickly no matter what happens.

<h3ahead-of-time">Prepare Ahead of Time

In order to recover quickly after a disaster strikes, you need to have a plan. When you know what to do before, during and after a flood, storm or fire, you can move seamlessly back into action as soon as it is safe to do so.

Communication is one of the most vital parts of a disaster plan. Your emergency plan should be well-rehearsed and always on the forefront of your employees’ minds. Make it a part of your regular training as well as your onboarding for new staff members.

Every few months, spend time going through your building with your team. Make sure to note where the main water shut-off valve is, as well as where fire extinguishers are located. Walk exit paths and make sure escape routes are well-marked. It may be helpful to create assignments for staff members in order to secure your building as much as possible ahead of a predicted disaster.

After a disaster has hit your office, make sure your employees know how to get back to work. If you are going remote, check secure networks and equipment ahead of the storm or other natural disaster headed your way. If you have an alternative work location, make sure keys are in the right hands and everyone knows when they are expected.

Stay in constant communication with your team throughout the event. Some natural disasters can take out networks long-term, so be sure to have multiple ways to keep up with how everyone is doing and share information.

<h3quickly">Recover Quickly

When you have a solid emergency plan, you can rest a little easier knowing that you are well on the road to reopening no matter what kind of damage you end up with. Contact our team at SERVPRO® the moment it is safe to do so and we will head to your property to begin restoration.

While we assess your property and start the drying, rebuilding or any other recovery efforts, you can start sharing information with your customers. Tell your story openly and honestly, and keep them posted on progress and potential reopening dates.

Give yourself a little grace and remember to stay flexible as your recovery continues. You may have to scale your operations back or change how you operate in order to move steadily towards getting back to normal. Keep an open mind and remember this new normal is only for a little while.

Make an emergency plan for your business so that you can respond well to anything that comes your way. Practice it regularly, and keep constant communication with your staff and your customers. You will be up and running faster than you ever thought possible.

Has your business experienced a disaster, or do you want help building an emergency plan? Contact us to find everything you need.

One Team that Handles All the Damage | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is Here to Help® when any disaster strikes!

You know that old saying “when it rains, it pours”? Unfortunately, it all too often proves itself true—one little piece of bad luck can lead to a whole streak of bad luck. This can be particularly true when it comes to dealing with damage after a disaster.

Whether it comes from Mother Nature or just an accidental appliance failure, one kind of damage always leads to another. That makes having a total restoration team like SERVPRO® in your backyard a huge relief.

Fire Safety for the Cozy Season | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

Fire safety is a top priority for us at SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!

As the cold season fully sets in, it gives us the perfect excuse to cuddle up under blankets and wear fuzzy socks as often as possible. It is also the perfect time of the year to watch a fire in your fireplace.

Unfortunately, the number of house fires rises dramatically during this time of year as well. Fireplaces, space heaters and other heating devices leave our home susceptible to damage when they are used incorrectly or malfunction. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy them—you just have to be safe when you do.

Where to Find Moisture in Your Home | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen anywhere in your home. Call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City to restore water damage on your property 24/7, 365.

Do you think you could measure the amount of water you use in your home every day? From washing dishes and clothes to hosing off the dog, water is something we rely on all day long.

Having instant access to water is certainly convenient, but when a leak strikes, it can create utter chaos. Some leaks may drip long-term before you even know they have started.

When you know the top places that moisture likes to play hide and seek, you can take steps to prevent it. The faster you find and stop leaks, the less damage you will have.

Why Being Local Matters | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

12/15/2023 (Permalink)

No job is too big or too small for our team of industry leading experts at SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City!

Spending time thinking about damage from disaster isn’t something most of us do. It’s hard to imagine them happening anywhere, but imagining our own homes and community being damaged is completely unfathomable.

You can prepare for natural disasters, but even a prepared home may end up with damage. A disaster that happens inside your home and is manmade in nature can leave you facing an incredible amount of chaos as well, especially as they are often completely out of nowhere.

It doesn’t really matter where it comes from, when disaster strikes, we all want to get our lives back together quickly. That is why a local company will always matter.

When You Find Water in Your Business | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

Has water damage infiltrated your business? Give SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City a call to get that resolved!

The day has begun. You head into the building and reach for the lights, and start to wonder where in the world that musty odor is coming from. Do you have a leak somewhere in the building?

That is enough to make anyone feel panicky, but what about if you have stepped inside for the day and found yourself ankle-deep in a puddle of water? Your day will quickly feel like a nightmare.

Whether water in your business comes from a natural disaster or a plumbing failure, the faster you are able to take action, the less damage your building will have. To take fast action, though, you need to know exactly what to do when you find water in your business.

Damage That Could Happen to Your Home | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

If you discover damage in your residence, call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City right away.

There are so many things that leave our home vulnerable to damage—severe weather, a fire, an aging structure or even that friendly neighbor who chucks a ball a little too hard and breaks your window.

Even though there are risks, we can’t spend our time worrying about them. A natural disaster might not be easily predicted, but with preparation, you can rest a little easier knowing that you have done everything possible to protect your home and your family.

We can’t prepare for something when we don’t know what to prepare for, so the best way to start protecting your home is to get to know the kinds of damage your home might face. The more you know about your risks, the more you will understand how easily they can be restored when a disaster strikes, especially with SERVPRO® of North Oklahoma City right around the corner.

Emergency Plans Keep Your Business Safe | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for disaster? SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is here for you when disaster strikes!

Were you aware that natural disasters have been on the rise? If you look into the statistics, not only are natural disasters happening more often, but they are also leaving behind more damage as their strength steadily increases.

Statistics aren’t the end-all be-all, though, and your business might not ever see a damaging natural disaster. While that may be true, there is still the potential risk for manmade disasters that could occur and damage your property.

It might feel easier to avoid thinking about your risks, but it is important to stay ahead of potential disasters. When you have a plan, you can keep your people safe and never miss a moment of work.

A Holly, Jolly Fire-Safe Holiday Season | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City on the case!

The holiday season is back again! Is there a better time of year? Celebrations, family gatherings and, of course, good food. Whether you are the cook or you have been banned from the kitchen, a little extra safety while the meal is prepared can go a long way.

The number of house fires always rises during the holidays, and a large amount of them start in the kitchen. As scary of a statistic as that is, when safety is priority and precautions are in place, you can rest easy knowing that Grandma’s famous apple pie will be on your plate.

When Winter Storms Get Strong | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

The winter season is almost upon us! SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City has your back with these helpful tips.

We enjoy a pretty mild winter most of the time in this part of Oklahoma. Although the majority of the season brings us reasonable temperatures, rain and gray skies, snowstorms, ice storms and freezing temperatures can’t be ruled out entirely.

Regardless of what this winter season actually decides to bring us weather-wise, the more prepared we are, the safer we can stay. When we get our home and our family ready for anything, we can avoid disasters.

Don’t Let Mother Nature Disrupt Your Workplace | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

If your home or business was damaged in a storm, call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City to get you back in action.

Ensuring your team is ready to handle any circumstance is crucial to running a business that can withstand challenges. Training your team won’t just be useful during the typical workday—it can be greatly advantageous when severe storms strike Oklahoma City.

On top of all your other major responsibilities, you need to make room for storm preparedness in the workplace. Disasters could strike at any moment, and if your team isn’t fully prepared, the consequences could be devastating for your business.

When storms are in the forecast, being ready will keep your business afloat! Our guide can help you figure out what you’ll need to prepare your Oklahoma City team.

Storm Season Is Here. Is Your House Ready? | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Have you been impacted by the unusual summer storm season? SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City has your back when you experience flood and water damage.

We are no strangers to storms here in Oklahoma City! That’s why it’s not uncommon for multiple games at the Women’s College World Series, held here each May and June, to be disrupted or delayed due to weather. And why we’re accustomed to weather reports regularly interrupting our TV-viewing with reports about tornadoes in the area around us.

Because of that, it’s important to take precautions to prepare your house to withstand stormy conditions. After all, no one has the time or the desire to deal with storm damage. Wondering where to begin? Start with the steps outlined below.

The Ultimate Guide to Grilling Safety | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City to get your space back in shape.

As the sweet summer days arrive in Edmond, we eagerly embrace the warmth and outdoor gatherings with our loved ones. However, it’s vital to prioritize grilling safety to prevent dangerous situations and potential fires.

Be aware of the community regulations for outdoor fires in Edmond before you grill. Remember that recreational burning in Edmond is only allowed three hours after sunrise and must stop three hours before sundown.

In addition to staying up to date with community fire guidelines, here are some other tips to help you enjoy a delightful summer BBQ experience while ensuring a fire-free environment.

Facing Water Damage the Right Way | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

If you discover water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City right away.

Water is an incredibly powerful force that can wreak havoc quickly. While water is essential for our daily lives, it can also cause chaos when it infiltrates our homes unexpectedly. Whether it’s caused by a flooded basement due to a malfunctioning water heater, a leaky roof from a storm or a sudden flash flood seeping through doors and windows, water damage can turn your life upside down.

While there are preventive measures to protect your home from water damage, some disasters are simply beyond our control. The good news is that our water damage restoration experts ready at SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City are to respond day or night to help you during such emergencies.

When a Disaster Strikes Your Home | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Summer storms affecting your property? Call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City to restore your space in no time!

No one ever wants to think about a disaster striking their home, but it is something we should all be prepared for. Severe weather can blow into your town faster than you ever imagined, leaving behind a trail of damages.

Our unique location may be beautiful, but being so close to the cold Rocky Mountains and the warm Gulf of Mexico can also set us up for some pretty severe weather. Thunderstorms and tornadoes are common in our area, which is one of the reasons that Oklahoma City has hundreds of tornado sirens all around.

With the threat of such strong storms always a possibility, we know the importance of being prepared and responding quickly. But knowing what to do after a storm is just as crucial for ensuring a fast and easy recovery.

When Rain Gets Heavy | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City on the case!

Do you love to sit and watch the rain? A steady and gentle rain falling in spring and summer is a welcome break from the bright sunshine, as the earth grows moist and the air is refreshed.

When rain gets heavy, though, it can start to overwhelm our roofs and gutters and leave our homes vulnerable to leaks. The ground can grow overly saturated, creating puddles that threaten the foundations of our houses. Heavy rain often comes with other threats, too, like strong winds, which can create other damage as the storm moves through the area.

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City wants to keep our town safe. Not only are we here to start your recovery after a disaster around the clock, but we also want to help you learn all the ways you can be proactive in preventing damages.

Starting an Outdoor Fire Safely | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.

The weather is finally starting to cool off, which means fall is finally on the way. Sweatshirts, crunchy leaves and pumpkin-everything make fall a favorite for most of us—and even if you have no interest in any of that, the break in the heat and humidity is always a welcome change.

Many of us start spending more time outdoors this time of year, including gathering the family around the fire pit for s’mores and endless stories. If you are going to have a fire outside, make sure to do it safely so you can enjoy your time without worry.

SERVPRO® is here to help when a disaster strikes, but we also want to help you take every step possible to keep things safe.

Starting an Outdoor Fire Safely | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.

The weather is finally starting to cool off, which means fall is finally on the way. Sweatshirts, crunchy leaves and pumpkin-everything make fall a favorite for most of us—and even if you have no interest in any of that, the break in the heat and humidity is always a welcome change.

Many of us start spending more time outdoors this time of year, including gathering the family around the fire pit for s’mores and endless stories. If you are going to have a fire outside, make sure to do it safely so you can enjoy your time without worry.

SERVPRO® is here to help when a disaster strikes, but we also want to help you take every step possible to keep things safe.

Empowering Your Kids With Lifesaving Fire Fundamentals | SERVPRO® of North Oklahoma City

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

Being a parent can be a tough role, but it always pays off when you see your children grow into responsible adults. The key to encouraging this growth starts with teaching them essential lessons, some of which might be a bit more complicated and nerve-wracking to bring up than others.

Fire safety should be taught early on to help your child grasp these lifesaving procedures. This won’t just help them while they’re young—they’ll carry this knowledge all their lives!

Fire safety is a serious topic to bring up in your household, but there are ways to make the conversation kid-friendly.

The Wonders and Dangers of Wind | SERVPRO® of North Oklahoma City

6/5/2023 (Permalink)

If you've suffered from storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City your first call.

An unexpected gust of wind can offer a nice break from a hot and humid day. However, it can also be a threat that can catch you off guard. The unpredictable nature of wind can turn it into either a lifesaver or a danger.

Wind can be a concern at any time of year, but it is most dangerous in the spring and summer. It doesn’t have to be a cloudy day for it to blow in; it might strike even on a beautiful day!

Always be wary of the potential destruction that severe winds can cause, and learn how you can protect your home from its aftermath.

Water Damage Can Be a Silent Household Concern | SERVPRO® of North Oklahoma City

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City to find the source.

One of water damage’s worst characteristics is its capacity to lurk deep within areas of your property that you may not discover right away. When water damage stays hidden, you could find issues like mold and excess moisture forming in your Oklahoma City home.

Finding water damage in the places where it hides the most often is a skill that could save your property from costly losses. There are many places in your home you can keep an eye on to guarantee hidden water damage is caught before it gets the chance to wreak havoc.

Pay attention to these problem areas as you work to protect your OKC home from water damage:

Your roof. Water damage that starts on the roof can be difficult to catch, especially if you don’t make a constant effort to climb up and check for issues.

When you do go up to check for damage, you might spot a minor leak and disregard it, only for it to transform into an expensive mess that requires a professional to fix.

Leaks that form on your roof are also capable of dripping down into your attic, presenting another hidden challenge for you to deal with. Your dim and damp attic can quickly begin growing mold as soon as water begins to drip inside.

In your bathroom. You are sure to have already found issues like leaks and excess moisture inside your Mustang bathroom. Your plumbing and appliances are skilled at concealing water issues, leaving you seeking the source.

Look around your sink for any wet spots and your faucet for dripping water. You will find similar issues around your toilet and shower, like puddled water and an excess of bathroom moisture.

Keeping a close eye on these areas is all it takes to prevent bathroom water damage from turning into an expensive disaster. You should also examine your plumbing and schedule routine repairs to keep your bathroom in good shape year-round.

Other appliances. When your appliances aren’t serving as a convenience in your home, you might find them hiding water damage. Appliance malfunctions become even harder to deal with when leaks find a hiding spot under or behind these huge machines.

When performing your hunt for water damage, it’s a good idea to move your appliances away from the wall so you can find any hidden water.

Don’t use your appliances without performing a quick inspection for damage first! You can avoid running into any issues all together by retiring your old appliances as soon as they begin giving you trouble.

Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!

Our Well-Trained Team Can Restore Your Damaged Home | SERVPRO® of North Oklahoma City

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

You’re bound to make some changes to your Oklahoma City home at some point, whether it’s a total renovation or a fresh coat of paint. Putting your trust in a qualified team to make cosmetic or functional changes to your home is critical, especially if you’re dealing with disaster-related repairs.

It is critical to conduct as much research as possible when looking for a restoration team to repair damage from an emergency such as a house fire or a flood. Hiring a crew that creates more damage than what was already there could be a big mistake for you and your house.

When you pick SERVPRO, you never have to deal with an unqualified team. Our specialists are given extensive ongoing and initial training, and we always show up with the needed certifications to get the job done safely.

We Adhere to Industry Trainings

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City follows the IICRC standards, and our technicians adhere to the restoration and cleanup instruction and standards. Here are just a few of the courses we offer:

• water damage restoration

• fire damage restoration

• mold remediation

• carpet and upholstery and cleaning

We also provide Employee Certification Training to our team to ensure they are fully prepared to handle any restoration or cleanup jobs. This self-directed training enables our employees to work on their own time so they can fully grasp our methods and protocols.

We Never Stop Learning

Once our employees have finished their initial training, we ensure that the learning never stops and that they are prepared for anything by providing ongoing training courses and e-learning classes.

Our employees are committed to ensuring that we possess the tools necessary to assist each family and each home in the area in resolving residential destruction—and our training is what makes this all possible.

Keeping up with the latest data and technologies allows us to modify our practices as needed to stay current. Because technology keeps evolving and getting better, we want to make certain that we have all the resources to help you get back on track after a household disaster.

Why This Matters for You

It is important to choose a fully competent and licensed company restoration team. Our team makes sure that your restoration is finished effectively and completely, and we won’t stop working until your home is in tip-top shape

Instead of wasting time working with a team that lacks professionalism and will only make matters worse, contact SERVPRO for unrivaled restoration services

When you need help recovering from a disaster, SERVPRO is here for you. Get in touch 24/7 to start your disaster recovery.

5 Facts About Commercial Water Damage

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike at any minute. Therefore, it is important to know a little about this and the water repair process.

Commercial Water Damage: 5 Facts

Every building is in danger of water damage. Whether it comes from a broken pipe or roof leak, it can cause serious damage to your business. Here are a few facts business owners should know about commercial water damage.

1. Regular Maintenance Can Stop Damage

Regularly inspect your building for problems. This includes checking for a clogged gutter, roof damage, and broken pipe. You may even want to have a professional come out and examine your building yearly.

2. Leaking Roofs Cause Problems

A tiny leak in your roof can cause more damage than a broken pipe. Even buildings with new roofs can leak due to freezing temperatures, high winds, and hail.

3. There Are 3 Different Categories of Water Damage

There are 3 different categories of water, including clean, contaminated, and grey water. What is necessary to clean the damage up and the safety precautions used is based on the water category. Therefore, it is a good idea to have water restoration professionals clean up the damage.

4. Insurance Doesn’t Cover All Damage

Most insurance companies cover unexpected water damage if it comes from within your building in Edmond, OK. Typically, they don't cover floodwaters that occur due to natural disasters. For this reason, you should read your insurance policy and make sure it offers the coverage you want.

5. Flood Insurance Policies Are Available

There are insurance policies available specifically for flood zones. If your business is in an area with a high risk of flooding, purchase a flood policy. You can have this coverage added to your standard policy, or you can purchase a separate one from a different insurance company.

Water damage can strike at any minute. Therefore, it is important to know a little about this and the water repair process. It is also important to know what your insurance covers and if you need an extra policy. This can help protect your business from water damage.

4 Ways To Prevent a Sewage Backup

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is always "Here to help." Our team is on standby 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

4 Ways to Avoid a Sewer Backup

As a homeowner, you understand the responsibilities that come from ownership. Still, you likely also understand that disasters, such as a sewer backup might occur despite your best efforts. According to water mitigation services in Edmond, OK, there are several things you can do to limit or reduce your risks of such disasters.

1. Backflow Valve

Many homeowners might commit to routine sewer cleaning as a prevention strategy, but that will not always prevent the problem, especially during a storm surge. Instead, homeowners can opt for a backflow prevention valve. The mechanism requires professional installation, but it closes off access to your home's plumbing from the exit point, allowing water or sewage to flow out but not in.

2. Backup Drain Plug

A drain plug works similarly to a backflow valve, but it is significantly less expensive and can be installed with DIY methods. However, it is not as effective as a valve. The plug is essentially a rubber ball or blocker on a float. As the water level rises in the drainpipe, it seals off the drain. Unfortunately, some fluids might seep past the plug, allowing for some water or storm damage.

3. Overhead Sewer

An overhead sewer provides the best protection against floods and incorporates a sump pump and overhead plumbing. Unfortunately, it is also the most costly option for prevention.

4. Standpipe

A standpipe is exactly what it sounds like. It is a standing pipe, typically connected to a drain. The pipe provides extra space for backflow. Ideally, the pipe itself will not overflow. The pipe typically offers protection against three feet of flooding.
Having backup prevention options is a crucial part of homeownership. You want to ensure that your basement is free of all flood risks or as many as possible. Incorporating any one or combination of the above measures can significantly decrease flood risks.

Protecting Your Business Against Fire Disaster

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

You can trust SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City to restore your home or business back to its pre-damaged condition after a fire strikes. Call us!

Protecting Your Company From A Fire Disaster

Commercial properties should always have a fire preparation plan in place to protect businesses against possible future losses. A fire mitigation service in Oklahoma City, OK, can help company owners make the appropriate arrangements. However, there are other factors to consider for protecting your business against a potential fire disaster.

1. Develop an Emergency Fire Preparation Plan

The most significant aspect of disaster preparation is creating an effective plan. Where are emergency exits located throughout the property? Who should team members contact in the event of a fire? Who is responsible for ensuring everyone is safely evacuated from the premises? All of these details are relevant and can ensure the safety of each member of your team.

2. Have a Mitigation Team on Standby

When a fire occurs, fire damage is inevitable. While the extent of the damage is dependent on the severity of the fire, a business will likely always require some form of remediation or mitigation.
Having a mitigation team on standby can put your mind at ease. Having the service on standby means you have a plan in place for when you call the company. The company will respond as you discussed when they are contacted after an emergency or disaster.

3. Install Necessary Safety Equipment

Aside from emergency plans and mitigation services, the most fundamental aspect of disaster preparation is the installation of fire safety equipment. Do you have all necessary fire extinguishers in place and inspected? Do you have a working sprinkler or suppression system in place? Are all exit lights and other emergency lightings in working order?

While a fire disaster is not imminent, fire preparation is a requirement for safety and ease of mind. Having an effective response plan, a mitigation service on standby, and the essential safety equipment installed is the best commercial property owners can do to prepare and protect businesses.

Commercial Insurance for Flood-Related Damage

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

Any attempt to make an insurance claim for flooding on a standard commercial insurance policy will quickly reveal the need for a separate flood policy

Commercial Flood Insurance

Any attempt to make an insurance claim for flooding on a standard commercial insurance policy will quickly reveal the need for a separate flood policy. Find out why general property insurance often excludes flood damage and what to look for in terms of flood insurance for a commercial building in Oklahoma City, OK.

Most General Policies Exclude Flooding

Primary commercial property insurance policies often exclude incidents in which external water breaches the interior of a structure, with the exception of leaks in an otherwise well-maintained roof. Check to see whether the following types of damage are cut out of a general policy:

• Flooding
• Sewer backups
• Storm surges

It is necessary to obtain endorsements or supplemental policies to cover this damage. Flood policies typically cover storm surges, but an additional rider or policy is required for cleaning and restoring sewer damage.

The National Flood Insurance Program

The NFIP is a relatively easy way for commercial property owners to get coverage for flooding. A property must be located in a community that participates in the program. If the owner of a property located in an area with a high flood risk has a mortgage from a federally-backed lender, flood coverage may be a requirement. This policy may include up to $500,000 in coverage for a structure and up to $500,000 for business or personal contents.

Private Commercial Insurance

If the NFIP is not available in a particular area, a property owner may want to obtain an independent flood policy through a private insurer. Check to see whether a primary commercial insurer also offers flood coverage.

If you own a commercial building in Oklahoma City, OK, you should be aware of the extent of your insurance coverage. General property insurance, flood insurance and additional policies or riders to cover interruptions can keep a business afloat in the event of major flooding or other storm damage.

Will Your Smoke Alarms Wake You Up in Case of Fire?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors are an important part of keeping you and your family safe. An effective alert system will allow you to get help as soon as possible.

Will Your Smoke Detectors Wake You Up In The Event Of A Fire?

No one wants to think about the event of a home fire happening to them in Edmond, OK, but the best time to think about it is before it happens. A little preparation goes a long way to keeping you and your family protected. One major key to that preparation is keeping your smoke alarms up to date. You want to be sure that your smoke alarm will alert you rapidly in case of fire, especially during the night when those in the household will be sleeping. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Do You Have Enough Alarms?

Experts say that you have just minutes to safely escape a burning home. Because of this, it is paramount that your smoke detector is able to detect and alert you rapidly, no matter where you are and no matter where the fire is located. Make sure that you have a smoke alarm in each of these key places:

• Inside each bedroom
• Outside each bedroom
• One on each level of the house

You can also get interconnected alarms, so that when one goes off, they all do. This is especially helpful in a large home or for heavy sleepers who may struggle to hear an alarm in another part of the house.

Are Your Batteries and Alarms Up-to-Date?

Once you are certain you have enough alarms, be sure to maintain them regularly. Check the date on each smoke alarm and remember to replace it after 10 years. Alarms powered by nine-volt batteries should have those batteries replaced every year. Newer fire alarms that use lithium batteries will not need to have the batteries replaced. The 10-year batteries are designed to last until the unit needs to be replaced. For all types of smoke detectors, it is important to test the alarm every month.

Smoke alarms are an important piece of keeping you and your family safe. An efficient alerting system will help you to get out and get help fast to prevent fire damage. Minimizing the damage to your home will help the fire restoration process to go more smoothly as well. A little preparation pays large dividends.

The 3 Steps for Unclogging a Drain With a Snake

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is highly trained and experienced in water damage cleanup and restoration and we are always here to help, no matter the day or hour

How To Unclog A Drain With A Snake In 3 Easy Steps

If you can't get a clogged pipe clear with a plunger or cleaning the trap, it is time to use an auger. This coiled snake will get fed down your drain, and you will twist the tip into the obstruction. While parts of the clog will break away and flow down the pipe, the rest will get trapped in the snake and pulled out. These tools are convenient for clogs deep in your pipes. Using one properly will prevent you from experiencing a pipe break or other plumbing disaster.

1. Find the Clog

Push the snake into your clogged pipe until you feel resistance. If there are any tight curves in your plumbing, you may feel some resistance, but you need to put a little extra force behind your reel and keep pressing until you find the clog. Just be sure you are gentle because you don't want to break your pipes on accident and end up having to hire a water restoration company anyway.

2. Snake the Debris

Rotate the snake until you feel it move freely in the spot where the block was. The rotating action will help the tip grab onto the debris and loosen it. If it is a solid object, you will likely feel the snakehead get wrapped around it. When you feel either it loosens the clog or get stuck, reel the tip out of the drain in your home in Oklahoma City, OK.

3. Wash It Away

When the tip is out of the clogged pipe, run the water down the drain. This will help flush any remaining debris down the pipe and ensure your drain is ready to go.

Snaking a stopped drain is a great way to prevent plumbing disasters and get your pipes working again. Follow these tips to ensure that the snaking process goes smoothly and you don't do any further damage to your home.

How Insurance Helps Your Business After a Storm

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Insurance provides a safety net for your business's unexpected expenses, like the need to rebuild after a storm.

How Insurance Can Assist Your Business Following A Storm

If you need to rebuild after a storm damages your Oklahoma City, OK, commercial building, you may worry about lost income and restoration expenses. Fortunately, there are a variety of insurance policies available that can help you stay afloat while you restore your business to full operational capacity. The following are two types of insurance that come in handy after damage to a commercial property.

Interruption Insurance

Even a closed business has expenses. Business interruption insurance covers many of those expenses, including:

• Payroll
• Taxes
• Monthly payments
• Temporary relocation expenses
• Training for new equipment

Interruption insurance also covers lost profits if you have adequate documentation showing earlier profits that can be used to estimate how much earning potential was lost during the restoration period. Speak with your insurance agent to ensure you fully understand what is covered and under what conditions as well as any special documentation that you need.

Commercial Property Insurance

Property insurance generally covers the cost of damage to physical property, including lost inventory and structural damage as well as damage to employees' personal property that was at the insured location. As with interruption insurance, it is important to speak with your insurance agent so that you fully understand what is included your policy. The insurance agent should also be able to provide you with a list of approved restoration service providers to help with the rebuild.

To make filing a claim easier, it is ideal to have a list of all inventory and property located at the covered address. Include purchase dates and prices on the list and store it in a secure location, such as cloud storage or a fireproof safe.

Insurance provides a safety net for your business's unexpected expenses, like the need to rebuild after a storm. Make sure you keep your policies up-to-date and speak with your insurance agent so that you fully understand your policies and coverage.

3 Reasons To Board Up After a Fire

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

You can trust our SERVPRO team to take care of your fire damage cleanup and restoration needs. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

After A Fire, There Are Three Reasons To Board Up Your Home.

If your home in Oklahoma City, OK, catches fire, your first thought is likely to be your family’s safety. Closely following that thought, however, is how you’re going to restore your home so that you can return to it. How do you protect your home between the time you call fire restoration specialists and the time they begin repairs? Board up services can protect your home from more damage and protect you from liability and insurance coverage loss. Here are three reasons it’s important to secure your home after a fire.

1. Protect Property

A fire can be devastating to your home. Emergency board up services help you keep any further damage from occurring. By covering broken windows, holes in your roof or walls and compromised doorways, you can protect the inside of your home from wind or rain before and during the repair process. Securing your home can also keep out animals and would-be vandals and thieves. It’s wise to minimize your worry in any way you can.

2. Protect People

Some people consider an opening to a home an invitation. If you board up your home after a fire, however, you can prevent them from entering. Your home is not likely to be structurally sound, so anyone who enters it is in danger of injury. If people are injured on your property, particularly if they can prove you did not indicate that it was unsafe to enter, they can sue you. Protecting people from injury also protect you from liability.

3. Protect Coverage

If your home has fire damage and you fail to secure it, your insurance company could discontinue your coverage. Because protecting your home from further damage saves your provider money, the company may consider it negligence if you don’t place boards or tarps over the open areas of your home and thus may refuse to accept your claim.

Professional restoration technicians are Here to Help in any way they can. They can board up your home as part of their repair process.

3 ways to prevent mold growth

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Although mold growth can cause significant damage to your business, many serious infestations can be avoided by keeping the building clean and dry.

3 Methods For Preventing Mold Growth

Mold can be a serious problem for your Oklahoma City, OK, commercial building. However, a little preventive maintenance minimizes the likelihood of a large infestation. The following are three ways to prevent mold growth.

1. Keep the Building Dry

Mold needs moisture to grow. This moisture can come in the form of standing water from leaks and spills or high indoor humidity. If your business is located in a particularly humid area, or if there are rooms with excess moisture, running a dehumidifier will decrease the amount of moisture in the air and make it more difficult for mold to grow. Leaks, spills and other types water damage should be dried up as quickly as possible and the affected areas should be sanitized to remove any lingering bacteria.

2. Decrease Mold Spores

Unfortunately, mold spores are everywhere. However, it is possible to minimize the number of spores present in your commercial building. Air purifiers with HEPA filters trap spores before they have a chance to colonize. Many HVAC systems can also be outfitted with special filters that catch spores circulating in the air.

Spores that travel in on employees’ and customers’ shoes are likely to become lodged in carpets and rug fibers. Vacuum cleaners that have HEPA filters are able to capture mold spores rather than releasing them back into the air. Routine carpet cleaning also cuts down on the presence of spores.

3. Check Regularly for Signs of Mold

Catching mold growth before it expands into a large infestation is key to preventing serious damage. If you have mold covering a large area, you will likely need a professional restoration service. Small patches can often be taken care of by non-professionals. Keep an eye out for discoloration, warped building materials and peeling paint or wallpaper. Investigate musty odors and strange smells.

Although mold growth can cause severe damage to your business, it is possible to prevent many serious infestations by keeping the building clean and dry. If you spot mold growth, have it remediated as soon as possible to keep it from spreading.

Checklist for Prepping Your Home for Vacation

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water pipe repair and cracked hose replacement are not the only ways you can protect your home during vacation.

Preparing Your Home for Vacation Checklist

You and your family may want a getaway, but you don't want to come home to a watery mess that leaves you scrambling for water pipe repair and flood remediation services. To make sure your home in Oklahoma City, OK, is safe from water damage during your vacation, check the following items off your to-do list before you leave.

Inspect

A broken pipe often starts with a small leak. By conducting regular inspections, particularly right before you are going to be away for a while, you can find small issues before they become large ones. There are several areas you need to look over before you leave:

• Window seals
  
• Roof joints and shingles
  
• Rain gutters
  
• Appliance hoses
  
• Sump pump

Look for weak spots and have them repaired. By ensuring that all these things are in good working order, you can prevent damage while you're gone.

Protect

Water pipe repair and cracked hose replacement are not the only ways you can protect your home during vacation. In addition to making sure everything works, add backups and protection to make sure they continue to do so, even if conditions change. For example, installing a backup battery on your sump pump keeps it working even if the power goes out. Adding insulation to both indoor and outdoor pipes and fixtures provides an extra layer of protection against freezing.

Enlist

If you want extra assurance that your home will be safe while you are enjoying your trip, seek out the assistance of a trusted neighbor or friend. Friends can make sure the heat stays on in the winter, pick up your mail and check for sudden problems that may cause damage. In addition to providing a key the person watching your home, it is also a good idea to show him or her how to turn off the water main to prevent your home from being flooded.

Protecting your home is part of planning for your trip. Make your vacation more relaxing by taking the steps needed to know your home is safe.

Embrace Fire Alarms in Your House, Even When They Are Annoying

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

With limited time to escape a fire and unit options that can detect fire and smoke damage, these inexpensive devices can save lives.

Fire Alarms Should Be Accepted In Your Home, Even If They Are Annoying

Everyone knows the chirping sound of the battery dying in a fire alarm. That noise can drive people crazy, but the alarms in your home in St Michael, MN protect the lives of you and your family. Here are four things to consider next time you contemplate bashing a chirping alarm.

1. How much time do you have to escape a fire?

Smoke can arrive before fire damage, and with only 3-4 minutes to get out, an alarm can be the deciding factor in your escape. Individual units go off when fire reaches them whereas connected units go off as soon as one unit is triggered letting the whole house know to escape.

2. What is the right alarm for your house?

Smoke alarms come in two styles - photoelectric and ionization. Photoelectric units sense smoky fires while ionization units sense more flames with less smoke. Since all fires are different, installing both types of alarms can be a great decision.

3. How long does an alarm device last?

Everyone knows that the batteries should be changed twice a year, but not many people know when to change the actual fire alarm unit. Typical devices can last for 8-15 years, so check the date on your alarm the next time you change the batteries. If it was manufactured in the 1990s, it's definitely time to install a new one.

4. How expensive are alarms?

Installing an alarm in each bedroom, on every floor, and more outside of every sleeping area of the house can seem like a huge expense. However, standard units cost just $6-20 and bi-annual battery replacements can cost just a few bucks.

If you thought fire alarms were too annoying, too expensive, or not really necessary, think again. With limited time to escape a fire and unit options that can detect fire and smoke damage, these inexpensive devices can save lives.

Understanding Your Business Insurance Policy: Storms and Floods

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

While a flood is a costly and devastating experience for a business owner, it is not always covered by your general business policy.

Storms And Floods: How To Understand Your Business Insurance Policy

While a flood is a costly and devastating experience for a business owner, it is not always covered under their general commercial policy. It is typically understood that flood insurance is separate from commercial property insurance. However, there is not always an understanding as to the reasons why, especially when a typical policy covers some level of storm damage. How and why is flood damage different?

1. Storms

The flooding that is covered by most policies without an additional rider is overflow from drains caused by excessive rainwater. Additionally, you may experience leaks due to wind-damaged roofs which should also be covered under most commercial policies.

2. Floods

Flood damage caused by actual floods and not storms typically refers to overflowing rivers, creeks, lakes, dams and other water courses. While these floods can occur naturally, they are not considered storm damage, likely because floods do not happen everywhere, making universal coverage difficult and unfair.

3. Storm Floods

Flooding caused by storms is an interesting overlap that likely requires clarification from your insurance provider. While a storm may lead to an overflowing river, it still may not be covered by your policy because of where the problem originates.

While your insurer will provide the most significant insight into potential coverage, a disaster restoration specialist in the Buffalo, MN, area can also give some insight into preventative measures. Additionally, these companies can help you develop an emergency action plan to protect and restore your business after a disaster.

Flood damage is a tricky topic when talking about insurance coverage. The most common misconception is that insurance companies don’t offer universal coverage because of greed, but the reality is that not enough consumers live in flood zones to make premiums fair. Storms are experienced by every business and person, making general coverage acceptable, but floods will likely always require special coverage and riders.

Water Damage Claim: The Importance of Pretesting for Water Categories

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

When filing an insurance claim, category one, or white/clear, water is the least expensive to remedy.

Water Damage Claim: The Importance Of Water Category Pretesting

Anyone who has experienced flooding is likely familiar with the various colors associated with floodwaters: white/clear, gray and black. These colors are often tied to a category and a classification which specifies the amount of safety precautions necessary and the level of mitigation and cleanout. When filing a claim, it is critical to know the category and classification because each ascending level impacts the severity and costs of damage. Therefore, pretesting is used to designate the category and classification of water to ensure that claims and restorative preparations are efficient and accurate.

1. Category One

When filing an insurance claim, category one, or white/clear, water is the least expensive to remedy. The source is sanitary, meaning that there is no harmful bacteria or sewage present. While this category can be a relief, it is still necessary to act quickly to remove the water and repair the damage. If the water sits for too long, it can be contaminated by other items in the area, causing an elevation in category or classification.

2. Category Two

If the water is found to be category two, or gray water, through pretesting, then it is best that you do not go near it. This result indicates that there are organic and inorganic substances in the water and that you may become ill if it is consumed or touched.

3. Category Three

Category three, is the most dangerous water. The level of contamination includes sewage, chemicals, bacteria and possible toxins. It is likely that your insurance agent and company will recommend a disaster restoration specialist in the Edmond, OK, area who will probably seal the space as they work to remove the water safely.

Insurance claims require accurate representations of the damage to a property. Pretesting provides those assessments for insurers by providing definitive information about the category and classification of the water and damage to your home.

Your Business Is More Than Property, Equipment and Furnishings

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

If a fire brings you damage, property insurance will restore your building, equipment, and other assets but you won't reopen anytime soon.

Property, Equipment, And Furnishings Aren't The Only Things That Make Up Your Business.

Yesterday, you had a thriving business in Edmond, OK A fire brought that to a screeching halt, leaving you with extensive fire and water damage. Property insurance will restore your building, equipment and other assets but you won’t reopen anytime soon. Without revenue and customers, the company’s survival is in jeopardy.

It is at this moment that your interruption insurance comes into play. It may help you pay for the following:

• Taxes
• Rent and lease payments
• Loan payments
• Wages for key employees
• Training costs for replacement employees
• Temporary relocation to a new location, if practical
• Association fees and dues
• Continued advertising
• Lost profits

Not Every Business Interruption Triggers an Insurance Claim

You cannot purchase commercial interruption insurance without first having a property damage policy. The two are linked. If you have a property damage event that is not covered by your insurance, there won’t be interruption compensation.

Additionally, interruption payments will not be triggered if your closure is considered partial. Only a complete shutdown qualifies.

Your Policy Tells You When the Interruption Ends

From an insurance perspective, the interruption most likely ends when you reopen for business. Your next big challenge is to bring back your customers.
If you offer terrific products and services, it’s easy to have faithful customers. However, customers are also creatures of habit. If they are in the habit of frequenting your establishment, and you suddenly shut down, they will likely get in the habit of frequenting someone else’s establishment.
Your number one goal during the shutdown is to make sure that your customers know you are coming back. Advertising is an excellent way to accomplish this. Also, remember that grand reopening sales are always a good idea in the world of retail.

A Speedy Fire Restoration Keeps the Interruption Period Short

A short interruption insurance period is good for business. The best way to accomplish this is to bring in the best insurance-approved fire damage remediation firm to handle your restoration. You want to reopen quickly.

3 Signs of a Clogged Drain Pipe

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

Twenty-four-seven, three hundred and sixty-five days, SERVPRO is ready to assist you in any fire, water, mold, or storm loss. Call us!

Three Symptoms Of A Blocked Drain Pipe

A drain blockage can result in a toilet overflow or cause water to back up in a shower. If a flooded toilet causes water damage, professional sewage cleaning may be necessary. Here are three signs that a drain pipe may be clogged.

1. Toilet Backups or Overflows

A flooded toilet can be one of the first indications of a blocked drain line. If plunging does not loosen a clog, it may be necessary to use an auger or snake. Run the snake down a toilet, or remove the toilet and insert the snake directly into the floor drain. If this does not solve the problem, the blockage may be further down the line.

2. Slowed or Stopped Drains

A slow or stopped drain also indicates a clogged pipe. Slow drains may benefit from drain cleaning solutions. Enzymatic treatments are less likely to damage pipes than chemicals, but work more slowly and must be used regularly. If a drain has completely stopped, it may be possible to use a specialized snake designed for sinks. Otherwise, it is advisable to call a plumber.

3. Toilet Overflow During a Shower

A toilet that overflows during a shower is a clear indication of a blocked drain line. This situation may result in a major backup that necessitates sewage cleaning. A water damage cleanup service can remove standing water, disinfect the area, and recommend which building materials or contents should be disposed of or restored.

All of these issues are caused by a clogged pipe. A homeowner may be able to clear the blockage by snaking a toilet, floor drain, or drain cleanout. It may be possible to use enzymatic or chemical treatments in slow-draining sinks or showers. If efforts to clear a clog are unsuccessful, contact a plumber in Oklahoma City, OK. A sewage cleaning service can restore areas damaged by exposure to contaminated water.

4 Facts You Should Know About Black Mold

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO's Mold Removal Specialists to address your mold problem. Their expertise can control your mold quickly and safely.

4 Black Mold Facts You Should Be Aware Of

While you may have heard quite a bit about black mold, you might not know as much about it as you think. It can be a difficult problem to solve, but having the right knowledge can help. Here are some things that you should know if you have found mold growing in your Edmond, OK, home.

1. It Isn’t Always the Same Thing

What you think of when you hear mold is most likely a species of mold called Stachybotrys Atra or Stachybotrys chartarum. However, this is not the only mold that grows black in color. There are several types of mold that look similar to this one.

2. It Has a Distinctive Odor

Even if you can’t see the black mold, there is another way that you can identify it in your home. Mold has a musty scent that you should be able to smell even if the mold is not visible. Sometimes mold can hide in places like the air conditioner or the carpet, so the odor might be the only indication that mold growth has occurred.

3. It Grows Quickly

Because mold thrives in warm and moist places, it can grow quite rapidly in the right environment. This can make mold cleanup difficult. If you have spotted mold, you should try to get it removed as soon as possible before it spreads and causes damage to your home.

4. It Spreads Via Spores

Black mold spores are so small that you can’t see them, making it easy for them to enter your home without your knowledge. Their microscopic size allows them to grow just about anywhere, creating a potentially frustrating situation for homeowners.
In many cases, mold is a repetitive problem. It can be difficult to identify and even more difficult to remove completely. If you believe that you have found it in your house, then hiring a mold remediation expert is the best course of action.

8 Steps of the Sewage Cleanup Process

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

The more contaminated the water causing the damage to your home, the more time cleaning the water is likely to take. call SERVPRO, we can help you.

The Sewage Cleanup Process In 8 Steps

If your home in Oklahoma City, OK, is flooded with sewer water, the mitigation process extends beyond basic water cleanup. Here are the eight basic steps sewage remediation experts must take to restore your home.

1. Wear Personal Protective Equipment

A sewer backup results in a Category 3 water spill. Because the damage is highly contaminated, technicians must wear impervious coveralls, rubber boots, goggles and a face mask with a respirator to protect themselves.

2. Contain the Area

You want to prevent bacteria and other germs from spreading through the air into the rest of your home. Before cleanup begins, the area must therefore be contained.

3. Pump Excess Water Out

Standing water is extracted through an industrial pump. It flows into a tank where it remains until it can be discarded safely after water cleanup.

4. Remove Affected Items and Materials

All items in the area must be removed. If they cannot be cleaned, they are discarded. Walls, ceilings and flooring must also be removed if they are touched by contaminated water. Any consumable items such as food, toiletries or drinks that were in the path of the sewage must be thrown away.

5. Dry All Surfaces

All surfaces must be dried to avoid secondary damage. Technicians may use fans or open windows to circulate fresh air from outside.

6. Clean All Surfaces

Because a flooded toilet contaminates everything the water touches, all surfaces must be disinfected. Experts use powerful cleansers and test to ensure that germs are gone.

7. Restore Materials

After everything is clean, the restoration process begins. Walls and ceilings are rebuilt, and flooring is replaced.

8. Replace Salvaged Items

Any item that can be saved can be returned to the area once it's clean. Keep a list of items that have to be discarded for insurance purposes.

The more contaminated the water that causes the damage to your home, the more time-consuming water cleanup is likely to be. Use certified experts to ensure all the necessary steps are taken.

Now Is the Time To Teach Your Kids How To Escape a Fire

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Be sure to test your fire alarm so children can hear what it sounds like. You can save lives by showing kids safety techniques to escape a fire.

Now Is The Time To Teach Your Children How To Get Out Of A Fire Safely.

Staying warm near a fireplace can be enough of a reminder that now is the time to have a conversation with your kids about how to escape a fire in your home in Edmond, OK. Here is some important information to include when you teach your kids safety for escaping a house fire.

Make a Plan

The first step to teach your kids how to escape a fire is to make a plan:

1. Draw a simple map showing how to escape their bedrooms or other key areas of the house.
2. Include a meetup location on the drawing. It should be away from the house but also have good visibility so you can see that everyone is out safely.
3. Practice the plan and incorporate important lessons about what to do during the escape.

During the Escape

Here are some escape techniques and guidelines to help them during a fire escape situation:

• Stay Low. Teach techniques such as rolling out of bed (instead of sitting up) and crawling to help keep kids low. Teach kids to crawl more quickly on their hands and knees, but to belly crawl if the air is hot above them. Show them how.
• Use Doors. Show kids how to check doors to see if they are hot before opening and to close doors when they leave a room.
• Find a Window. If trapped from an exit, teach kids safety by showing them how to open a window to escape (if low enough), or for breathing and signaling from an upper floor.

Be sure to test your fire alarm so children can hear what it sounds like. You can save lives by showing kids safety techniques to escape a fire.

A fire can be devastating, but getting everyone safely outside is the most important thing with a home fire. Stuff can be replaced. If you need help figuring out how to begin cleanup or repairs, contact a company that specializes in disaster recovery. They will have fire damage specialists to help you restore your home to the way it was before the fire.

3 Ways To Detect a Water Leak

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

if your home or business suffers from a water leak, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO Team a call!

Three Methods For Detecting A Water Leak

A water leak may only cause minor damage at first. If the leak continues, it will worsen and result in water damage and the possibility of secondary damage, such as mold growth. Here are three ways that a property owner or facility manager can detect leaks at a building in Oklahoma City, OK.

1. Compare Water Bills

A sudden spike in water usage may be due to a leak. In the case of a minor leak, this may be the first indication that something is wrong. Search the property for signs of staining and check around the base of appliances or toilets. If you cannot locate the leak, call in professionals.

2. Look for Drips or Signs of Staining

It may take some time to find a water leak if you are searching a property without the assistance of thermal imaging. In the event of a pipe break, a spray or rapid leak should clearly indicate the source. A slow drip can be more difficult to detect. Look for signs of dampness or dripping on ceilings and walls, or around appliances, toilets, or sinks.

3. Try Thermal Imaging

An owner or manager can acquire and use a thermal camera or hire a service that locates leaks with professional-grade thermal imaging technology. Infrared thermography detects the heat or lack of heat emitted by objects. In the case of a leak, temperature differences can be caused by evaporation. This imaging technology can also identify the location of pipes behind walls, above ceilings, or under floors.

A property owner or manager can use any of these methods to detect a water leak. In the event of a minor leak, it may be possible to simply call a plumber to fix the problem and dry the affected area. For more severe leaks, it is advisable to rely on water damage restoration specialists in Oklahoma City, OK.

3 Tips for Preventing Water Damage

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO quickly responds and begins the water damage cleanup in your home to ensure that the water damage is "Like it never even happened."

3 Water Damage Prevention Tips

One of the most significant causes of homeowner loss is water damage. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent serious damage.

1. Maintain Your Yard

If you fail to disconnect your hose during the winter, water inside the hose may freeze and expand into the pipe, creating an ice block that bursts the pipes and lead to a waterfall of melted snow gushing into the basement. It may also result in structural damage to the walls and foundation of your home. For similar reasons, keep the gutters clear and inspect them at least twice a year to be sure they are functioning effectively. Don't forget to clear away shrubs and trees that have grown to close to pipes. This includes removing tree roots that may have wrapped around pipes or grown into cracks in the line.

2. Immediately Address Leaks

Routinely inspect major appliances, such as the washing machine and refrigerator, and your plumbing system. Watch out for signs of moisture damage, mold, pools of water, moisture buildup on pipes, and old hoses. If you can catch those problems early on, you can often complete those minor repairs without sacrificing too much time or money.

3. Prevent Problems You Can't See

Many home disasters happen when owners aren't home or while they are sleeping. If you're not at home to complete water cleanup right after flooding occurs, you may be faced with very expensive water damage. Avoid this serious problem by shutting off the water main when you go away for long vacations. You can also install a water detector (many connect to your smartphone) that will send you an alarm when the sensor is exposed to water.

Your home doesn't have to be at risk for water damage. A little bit of preventative maintenance goes a long way toward keeping your Edmond, OK, home safe and intact. Otherwise, you may end up getting to know a home remediation company very well.

Getting Your Company’s Fire Drills Right Every Time

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

To get the most out of your company fire drill, you must notify employees that it is going to happen.

Your Company's Fire Drills Are Always Correct

Whether you have a small business or own a large corporation, you probably know effective fire drills are part of your workplace-safety plan. When employees are hard at work, it can be tough to get them to pay attention to an emergency drill. Still, the best way to ensure workers evacuate efficiently during a fire is to ask them to practice regularly. Here are some tips for conducting a meaningful fire drill.

1. Inform Employees

To get the most out of your company fire drill, you must notify employees that it is going to happen. Be sure to provide them with information about how to effectively evacuate. Also, tell all employees that participation is mandatory. If you have customers or guests on site during the drill, don’t forget to alert them as well.

2. Monitor the Drill

You only know if your drill is effective if you pay attention to how it goes down. When you are planning your drill, designate a couple employees to act as observes. These representatives should take notes during the drill. They should also compile a post-drill report. If the observers recommend improvements, work to coach employees about new evacuation procedures.

3. Ask for Help

Many fire departments have outreach officials who will collaborate with you to conduct your preparedness drill. Some even send fire trucks and other vehicles to mimic real-world conditions. When you are scheduling your drill, reach out to local responders to ask for assistance. Also, consider asking these professionals to advise your employees on evacuation and first-aid techniques during the drill.

Fires in Oklahoma City, OK, can devastate businesses. If your organization has sustained damage during a fire, working with a qualified restoration service is likely your best bet to fully recover. You don’t have to get to that point, however. By working to pull off an effective fire drill, you boost the chances that both your business and employees are safe during a fire.

A Quick-Reference Guide to Commercial Floodwater Insurance

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

While purchasing insurance to protect your business from flooding is generally a good idea, you may have a legal obligation to purchase coverage.

A Guide To Commercial Flood Insurance in a Nutshell

Regardless of the nature of your Edmond, OK, business, it must stay dry to be successful. After all, few things can destroy a business faster than rising floodwaters. If you have been thinking about purchasing flood insurance for your company, you prbablyo have a few basic questions about this type of coverage.

Does Your Business Need Commercial Floodwater Insurance?

While purchasing insurance to protect your business from flooding is generally a good idea, you may have a legal obligation to purchase coverage. If both of the following apply to your organization, you may be required to carry a flood policy:

• Your business is in a high-risk flood area
• You have a federally-regulated or insured mortgage
  

How Do You Know If Your Business Needs Flood Protection?

While your business may not have a contractual responsibility to purchase flood insurance, you may decide your company needs it anyway. Typically, businesses located inside floodplains need flood coverage. Both federal and state governmental agencies maintain maps to help business owners decide whether their companies are susceptible to floodwaters.

Does Regular Business Insurance Cover Flood Damage?

Generally, conventional commercial insurance does not provide coverage for flood damage. While your general policy may protect your business from flooding due to broken pipes or other plumbing problems, it likely won’t cover flooding that occurs during a natural disaster, dam break or other outside flooding event. If your business sustains damage during a flood, you will likely need the assistance of a professional restoration service. The best way to pay for restoration is often with comprehensive flood coverage.

No business owner wants to watch floodwaters carry away equipment or inventory. Therefore, for many Edmond, OK, business owners, planning for floodwaters is part of the normal business process. By understanding flood insurance and finding the right policy, you can be certain your organization has the resources it needs to fully recover when waters recede.

Should I Check a Mold Remediation Company's Certifications?

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

Have you discovered a mold infestation in your home? Don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City team

Should I look At The Certifications Of A Mold Remediation Company?

When facing the prospect of hiring mold remediation specialists to mitigate mold damage to your Oklahoma City, OK home, you may see many companies advertising specialized mold certifications. But what makes a company certified for mold removal, and is there any value in hiring a company that has been certified for mold remediation?

So Who Certifies Mold Remediation Companies?

Mold remediation companies and certified mold specialists are accredited by IICRC, or the institute of Inspection Cleaning and Remediation Certification. This organization acts as the standards body that defines proper procedure and accountability for cleaning, remediation, and restoration for various services. For certified mold remediation specialists, this means:

• Attaining in-depth expertise on mold identification
• Certifying in safe methods for mold remediation and elimination
• Gaining insight into safe technician handling of microbial substances
• Understanding water damage restoration
• Qualifying in both technician and consumer safety management

Attaining these certifications requires a great deal of training and coursework for both companies and individual technicians, as well as assessment of cleaning, remediation, and restoration protocols.

Why Does Certification Matter?

Certification means accountability and protections for you as a consumer. Certified mold remediation companies and mold remediation technicians are held to a particular standard required to maintain their certification and remain in good standing with the IICRC. This means that you as a consumer are protected by an established standard for professional, ethical mold remediation and damage treatment.

Protect Yourself

While it’s possible to hire mold remediation specialists without certification, keep in mind that certification means protections you may not find with non-certified technicians and companies. Handling mold detection, remediation, and prevention is a highly complex endeavor requiring extensive knowledge of safety procedures and proper interactions with fungal agents and microbial spores. While certified mold remediation companies may charge more, often you are paying for the assurance of a job done right. Therefore it is always wise to check the status of a remediation company’s mold certification.

To Keep or To Toss: What Must Be Replaced After a Fire

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a trusted leader in disaster restoration for your fire damage cleanup and restoration needs.

What to Keep And What to Throw Away After a Fire

A residential fire can be devastating. The recovery process is often long and arduous. If your home in Oklahoma City, OK, is damaged or destroyed by a fire, chances are high that many things within your home are damaged beyond repair as well. Fire restoration specialists may be able to salvage some things, but here are some items you will probably need to throw away.

Medication

If you look on the bottle or instruction sheets for most medications, you may see a warning to keep them away from high heat. Heat changes the chemical properties of substances, which can change the effects that those substances have. It is not a good idea to ingest anything that has been altered without knowing exactly how that change will affect you. To be on the safe side, dispose of any medications that were affected by the fire.

Food

The cans lined up in your pantry may seem okay, but if fire, smoke or even excessive heat came anywhere near them, it is best to toss them out. The seal that protects the food inside the cans may have been weakened by the heat. It is better to throw away questionable items than take a chance on eating something that may have gone bad.

Cosmetics

What you put on your body can be just as important as what you put in your body. High heat can destroy any of the following items:

• Makeup
• Facial cleanser
• Moisturizer
• Contact solution
• Perfumes

Without knowing what affect the altered state of these product may have on your skin, it is safer to dispose of them.

Replacing everything may be expensive, but you can’t put a price on peace of mind. If you are unsure whether an item is safe to use, it is best to get rid of it. When you throw away items that have fallen victim to fire damage, you are protecting yourself from the potential of further complications to your overall recovery process.

Post-Fire: Getting Rid of the Smell

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

You can trust SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City to restore your building back to its pre-damaged condition after a fire strikes.

Getting Rid Of the Odor After A Fire

After a fired has occurred in your Edmond, OK, building, a plethora of obstacles can appear ahead. Before, you were worried about the safety of the occupants and the potential of the fire spreading, and now you’re likely worried about the damage done. Yes, it can be shocking to return to a smoked-coated building interior. Discover a few facts about what smoke damage can do and what you can do to remedy it.

Smoke is Sneaky

Once you've been given the go-ahead to reenter the building, you may need the judgment of fire damage professionals to determine what items can be salvaged. Because smoke can permeate various parts of an indoor space, it's essential that you get a proper inspection. Smoke also produces small amounts of carbon in the air, ultimately creating soot, and completely removing the odor from some items can prove challenging.

There Are Different Types

In addition, be aware that there may be multiple soot damage culprits, as there are different types of smoke:

• Dry smoke
• Wet smoke
• Protein fire residue

Although any kind of smoke damage is a hassle to deal with, wet smoke – involving plastic or rubber – can be sharper in odor and harder to address. Dry smoke involves wood or paper and can also be difficult to clean. Protein fire residue, which can be subtle, has a familiar, pungent odor.

Porous Materials are Vulnerable

Every surface likely needs attention after a fire, but the permeable ones are usually trickiest. Items such as curtains, rugs, and other upholsteries probably need to go to the dry cleaner. Another task on your list should involve keeping your cleaned items out of the building until a proper smoke cleaning is complete.

Addressing smoke damage in your building can be frustrating, but by doing post-fire inspection and subsequent cleaning the right way, you can avoid a lingering odor.

Building a Defense Against Wind Damage

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

If your business is damaged by inclement weather, give our SERVPRO of the North Oklahoma City team a call.

Constructing A Wind Damage Defense

You already know to protect your place of business against lightning and rain during thunderstorms in Oklahoma City, OK, but like many business owners, you’ve likely overlooked the threat that wind poses during severe weather conditions. The truth is, wind can do as much damage to your commercial building as other thunderstorm threats in a shorter amount of time. It can:

• Strip away shingles to cause a substantial roof leak
• Damage your roof with branches or downed trees
• Shatter windows

Fortunately, protecting yourself from this invisible threat is simple when you know the right steps to take.

Outdoor Cleanup

Your first step toward protecting your establishment from wind damage is to clean up the outside. That means replacing gravel and rock landscaping with something softer (like mulch or straw) or unmovable (like asphalt or concrete). Keep branches on trees around your building trimmed, and consider taking down any trees that are too close to the building or which already show signs of damage. Your local utility company may help out by pruning trees near power lines if you place a few calls. Furthermore, consider removing any loose outdoor furniture from courtyards, lounge areas and patios indoors when you hear a thunderstorm being forecast for your area to prevent the creation of flying debris.

Proper Inspections

Removing trees and branches sometimes isn’t enough to completely protect a roof, especially if it’s old or already has damage like missing shingles. Ensure your business is up to the next storm by investing in annual inspections by professional roofers who can identify and properly fix damaged roofs before they become a real issue, leading to a roof leak or much worse. Perform the same courtesy for your building’s windows and doors as well to prevent shattering and blow-ins during high-wind storms.

Taking these steps may not eliminate wind damage altogether; you might encounter a roof leak here and there or a crack in your window. But the right precautions help to make your business a safer place for you and your employees when strong winds blow in.

3 Ways To Deal With Water Damage

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Has your home experienced a water loss? There is no need to worry. SERVPRO is ready for help!

3 Water Damage Repair Methods

It is important to care for items that have been damaged by water. No matter if a broken pipe, appliance, or backed-up toilet is the culprit, it is important to fix the source of the leak and carefully care for any vulnerable items in your home as soon as possible. If you wait a long time, these items may degrade or even begin to mold. Depending on the type of items that were exposed and the extent of the water damage, you may want to consult experts on water in the home who provide dry cleaning services in Edmond, OK.

Whether you think you can handle the water damage yourself or you want to start the cleanup process while you wait for the experts to arrive, here are three general guidelines for handling items with water damage.

1. Gently clean and rinse items that are still wet. Try not to grind debris into the surface. Be especially careful when handling delicate items such as art, paper, photographs, or other fragile materials. These should be removed from walls or any folders and containers and allowed to air dry.

2. Air dry objects indoors to avoid causing additional damage with sunlight or heat. Direct sunlight can compound the damage resulting from water in the home and lead to splitting, buckling, or even warping items and furniture.

3. Increase airflow and decrease humidity as much as possible to speed drying and prevent mold from forming.

If you are dealing with water in the home after a broken pipe or another kind of leak, you should focus on drying and airing out the affected area as quickly as possible. In most cases, it is best to lay out damp items indoors and circulate and dehumidify the air. Skilled restoration experts in Edmond, OK, may also be able to answer any of your questions if you are concerned about whether you can safely clean or dry a delicate item.

Does Mold Grow Everywhere?

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City if you suspect that your home or business in OKC has a mold problem

Is It Possible For Mold To Grow Everywhere?

Beyond the scope of grade school science class, learning about various types of mold is probably not your everyday pursuit. However, most residents in Oklahoma City, OK, will deal with fungus issues at some point down the road, and the timing is never convenient. Whether it's bread mold or a mold that's taken over the bathroom, many may wonder how it gets in these discreet places to begin with.

A Powerful Fungus

Normally, mold is associated with household issues – and with good reason. Dealing with your occasional fridge mold or discoloration along your shower wall is no fun game to play. Having inhabited the earth long before humans, mold has grown in all corners and on a multitude of surfaces. Instead of acquiring energy from the sun, mold turns to other animals and plants for food. Dampness is usually key, and most molds will cling to areas prone to water damage and leaks.

An Easy Target

Finding a blue or green spot on your loaf of whole wheat grains is simply part of life. Why bread, though? Containing the perfect ingredients on mold's menu, bread is usually stored in cabinets and pantries, which sets the perfect warm backdrop. It is also moist, which naturally invites fungus growth.

A Common Nuisance

Of course, finding that fuzzy growth on your bread can easily ruin the perfect sandwich. Tackle bread mold by only leaving out reasonable amounts. You can store the rest in the fridge or in the freezer, which you can later thaw in a plastic bag. Ensuring that bread stays tightly sealed is another trick to slowing down mold growth.

Mold is typically not a word most Oklahoma City, OK, residents would prefer to associate with food, but it can happen to anyone's delicious meal if the setting is just right. Prevent mold from having a fancy, candlelit dinner with your food items by maintaining cool and dry storing places. If that bread mold decides it wants to spread to other parts of the home, a trusted professional can help you fight the good fight.

Mold and Mildew: What's the Difference?

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Have you discovered a mold infestation in your home? Don't hesitate and call us, SERVPRO is ready for help!

What Is The Difference Between Mold And Mildew?

We've all heard of mold and mildew and how each have a way of moving into the home without welcome. Mildew and mold damage – no matter how significant – can be challenging to address. As both can sweep across homes old and new, how can one distinguish between the two? Look to the following pointers on the main similarities and differences of mold and mildew, and the ways to identify each.

Water Lovers

One aspect to know for certain is that water can set the stage for any type of mold or mildew. Any area that is warm and damp can become susceptible to mold or mildew growth. These areas can also help these fungi grow quickly. While many homes have a patch of growth here and there, ignoring this problem can create bigger issues over time.

It's a Look

When it comes to appearances, mold and mildew can differ greatly. If you see a flat, powdery, and whitish substance growing in your home, you may have a mildew visitor. Over time, mildew can turn a black or brownish color. Mold growth is usually evident when you discover a fuzzy, discolored spot on a wide range of surfaces. It can be greenish black or even yellow, but the general rule of thumb is that mold damage is the trickier of the two.

If It Smells Like Fungus…

Even though mildew may not be as aggressive as mold, both can cause damage if ignored. Signs that you're living with mold include a pungent, musty odor or rotting wood. A mold professional can also help you identify the root of the problem at hand, since fungi likes to live a quiet existence.

Regardless of which area of your house has fallen victim to mildew or mold damage, finding the issue in your Edmond, OK, home can be upsetting. By connecting with professionals who can inspect, test, and remove these frustrating fungi, mold no longer has to be in your life.

4 Things You Should Not Do After Water Damage Strikes

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the experience and equipment to restore your home of Water Damage.

4 Things You Shouldn't Do If Water Damage Occurs

Walking into an area in your home with flooding water from a broken pipe or backed-up sewer line can be overwhelming. As you try to prioritize all the questions running through your mind, it is important to consider how to address the damage promptly. The more you know about dealing with the problem, the better chance you have of addressing the issues quickly and efficiently, even while stressed. So, here are four things you should not do after water damage strikes your home in Oklahoma City, OK.

1. Forget to call the insurance company. Your first instinct may be to call family and friends to help with the cleanup. But the standing water in home flooded areas can wait while you take pictures for the insurance company and make initial contact with your representative. The pictures are an important piece of evidence and can help prove the claim if there are questions raised by the adjustor.

2. Attempt to restore the area alone. Water that stands against walls, floors, and appliances can do unseen damage. That is why it is important to contact a professional cleanup crew to help restore the area after a broken pipe. The trained individuals know what to look for to prevent mold, water seepage, and further damage.

3. Miss the chance to inventory damaged items. Removing wet and ruined items from the flooding water and tossing them out the door may be the first thing you want to do, but don’t do it. It is critical to your insurance claim that you either photograph each item or make an inventory list.

4. Assume water is clean. All flood water is not created equally. There are three categories of water, and each has its own cleanup procedure. The categories are clean water, grey water, and black water. By contacting a team of professionals, you can be sure to address the contaminated flood water properly.

Water damage can be extremely disconcerting. When addressing a broken pipe or overflowing appliance, knowing what you should not do can be just as important as knowing what to do.

Insurance Coverage for Mold

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is the local leader in mold removal and remediation.

Mold Insurance Coverage

The best way to protect your home from mold is to prevent fungus growth from occurring in the first place. That means keeping your home in good repair, maintaining proper ventilation and keeping indoor humidity under 60 percent. Unfortunately, mold may become an issue anyway, and if it does, you’ll need to pay a professional mold remediation service in Edmond, OK, to take care of it. Will your homeowners insurance cover it? The answer is: it depends.

As a rule, insurance policies exclude mold damage that results from:

• Structural leaks
• High humidity
• Poor drainage
• Water seepage
• Flooding

This covers nearly all of the most common causes of mold damage, so if you’re already dealing with a mold issue, your chances of being covered are low.

What Is Covered

Exactly what is covered will vary depending on your personal insurance policy. Many policies will cover damage resulting from a burst water pipe or a backed-up sewer, including fungus growth, but these may be the only instances in which you will be covered.

It’s also important to check your policy regularly to see if coverage has changed, as many companies are reducing their coverage for mold damage. They may put a cap on how much coverage you can receive for mold damage, which can be problematic if the mold growth is extensive. Some insurance companies explicitly deny coverage for mold no matter what the cause or may require that you pay extra for mold coverage.

What You Can Do

First, read your policy so you understand what is and is not covered by your policy. Talk to a public insurance adjuster or a mold cleanup representative about your situation to learn more about your options for getting coverage and filing a claim. If you live in Edmond, OK, where fungus growth is a common issue, it could be worthwhile to pay extra for mold insurance.

What To Do Before Allowing Employees To Return After a Flood

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial storm damage in Oklahoma City, OK.

What to Do Before Allowing Employees to Reenter the Workplace Following a Flood

If a flood happens in Oklahoma City, OK, it is likely that your business could receive harmful damage. Backed-up sewage lines often lead to black water damage, and leaking water can ruin machinery and important documents. Flood cleanup can take a while, but it’s important to get your business up and running as soon as possible. Here are a few things to consider before calling your employees back into work.

Inspection

Before you allow anyone back into your building, be sure to inspect the stability of the structure. You’ll likely use water damage repair services, but once you can safely reenter the building, it’s important to do a thorough check-up on everything. There are a few things you might do to ensure the security of your employees:

• Examining water supplies for any contamination
  
• Confirming secure connections to all electrical systems
  
• Testing for asbestos or black water corruption
  
• Checking air filtration devices used during the cleanup and restoration process
  
  

Once you have thoroughly inspected your commercial building, you can consider contacting your workers.

Accommodation

Area-wide disasters can be scary. Be sure to take care of your workers during this challenging time, especially if some of them are dealing with their own loss of property or transportation. Consider accommodations such as flexible scheduling and on-site daycare to support your employees.

Communication

Don’t forget to keep your workers and customers informed. There are many ways to communicate, so use your resources to connect clearly and concisely. Your business should provide reassurance to your employees by sharing restoration plans and recent updates. When you are thinking about allowing your workers to return, notify them in advance so that they can prepare themselves.

Taking these steps to take care of your employees will not only provide security but will also improve their attitude towards your business. Black water damage may harm your building’s structure, but it doesn’t have to ruin your employees’ relationship with the company.

What Happens to Your Home After a Flood?

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

If extreme weather damages your property call SERVPRO.

After a Flood, What Happens to Your House?

Flooding: It’s every homeowner’s nightmare. It’s also something you hope to never experience. Unfortunately, residents in Edmond, OK, have to deal with this reality. While you can certainly do some things to minimize the likelihood of flooding in some cases, you can’t always hold back floods from getting into your home. If water has damaged parts of your home, you’ll need to tear out the affected areas. There are other important steps you’ll need to follow in order to get your home back to a livable state.

Get Rid of the Water

Different amounts of water find their way into your home during a flood. Even small amounts can cause water damage to your valuables and to various parts of your house. It’s vital that you remove this water as quickly as possible to reduce the risk of mold.

• Extract the water using a wet vacuum.
• Use an industrial-strength carpet cleaner to suck up water.
• Call a professional company that specializes in storm restoration to help.
  
  

Remove Damaged Items

After a flood, chances are high that your walls and flooring will have damage. These areas might even be completely destroyed or unusable. In these cases, you need to tear out ruined carpet, hardwood, tile, or drywall. This will help ensure that mold and other foreign materials don’t form.

Sanitize

Don’t forget to clean the affected areas once you’ve removed flooring and drywall. Getting rid of water and the damaged areas isn’t enough. You also must use a heavy-duty cleaner and sanitizer to reduce the risk of bacteria growing in your home. This process will also help eliminate unpleasant odors.

After a flood in your home, it’s vital that you remove any remaining water and that you tear out and clean affected places. You don’t have to perform these important tasks on your own. Choose the right company to get your home back to normal.

5 Steps for Extinguishing a Grease Fire

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

A grease fire may start small, but it can become big in a hurry.

How To Put Out A Kitchen Grease Fire

No one plans to have a grease fire in the kitchen, but when oils from cooking build up, fire is more likely to occur. What you can plan is how to put out the fire once it has started. It is also important to know your limits and when to involve emergency services. If a fire breaks out on the stove in your home in Edmond, OK here are some steps to help minimize the damage.

1. Contain the Flames.

A metal lid or cookie sheet is a great tool for suffocating a fire. The lid can be especially helpful, as it is more likely to be able to cut off more of the oxygen feeding the fire.

2. Turn off Heat.

The faster you can get the burner cool, the better. If you can safely get to the knob on the stove to turn it off, you should do so.

3. Smother the Fire.

If the fire is small, use baking soda or salt to put out the flames. Never douse a grease fire with water; it will only antagonize it!

4. Recognize Limits.

If the fire is still going strong after the first three steps, call emergency services as you are leaving the house. Don't try to fight a fire that is too big on your own, and don't stay in the house with the fire. Get to safety and call in the experts.

5. Repair Damage.

No matter how small the fire is, it likely left some damage behind. Fire restoration specialists can assess the damage and restore your kitchen and any affected surrounding area to be like new again. Let them take the lead on the fire cleanup.

A grease fire may start small, but it can become big in a hurry. If you are not able to extinguish it immediately, it is best to call professional firefighters to do the job.

5 Facts About Mold

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth in an Oklahoma City, OK commercial building.

Mold Basic Information

Mold growth in your commercial building is not a problem you want to ignore. You may not know a lot about mold or the remediation process that comes after you discover that your property in Oklahoma City, OK, has an issue. Here are some mold basics that can help you make faster decisions and thus save yourself time and money.

1. There is no such thing as a mold-free environment.

Mold spores are present in the air, particularly outside. They can come into your office or warehouse on worker's clothes and shoes, or they can simply blow in with the wind. The mold in the air is not the problem. Only when it settles and grows on surfaces is there an issue.

2. Mold growth often gives off a musty smell.

Mold can hide in walls and under floorboards, making it difficult to detect. One way to pinpoint the location of a patch of mold is to follow your nose. Mold gives off a musty, unpleasant odor.

3. Water damage and the situations that cause it are breeding grounds for mold.

Mold loves moisture. It cannot grow without it. One side effect of water damage caused by flooding or leaks is the increased potential for a mold problem.

4. Mold remediation involves both mold cleanup and moisture control.

When you call mold remediation specialists to handle your mold problem, their service includes not only cleaning up the growth but also fixing the moisture problem that led to it. High humidity can also lead to mold problems, so it's good to keep the humidity level of your building to 45% or lower.

5. Timely attention is a key element in remediation.

Once you discover a mold problem on your property, call the experts at once. Mold does not just go away. It multiplies quickly, and it may keep growing until the problem is resolved.

Mold growth is not a problem to take lightly. If you call remediation experts quickly and manage to control the moisture problems that led to it in the first place, you can resolve the issue.

How To Avoid a Cigarette Fire

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

Keep a fire extinguisher accessible.

In addition to causing health effects, smoking may also pose a safety hazard. Failure to recognize the potential dangers of a lit cigarette can result in disastrous consequences. To safeguard their homes from a potentially destructive cigarette fire, homeowners in Edmond, OK, should abide by several important protocols.

Properly Extinguish Butts

Properly extinguishing butts is vital to preventing infernos. To accomplish this, you can utilize several strategies:

• Ensure butt is not smoldering
• Discard in an ashtray, not on the ground
• Wet butt before disposal
  
  

Throwing a smoldering cigarette on the ground may ignite nearby combustibles, such as dry vegetation. To avoid this, place used butts in a glass or ceramic ashtray.

To minimize the risk of an ashtray fire, routinely clean the container and wet your butt before placing it inside. Never throw a used cigarette into a trash receptacle until it has been properly extinguished.

Avoid Smoking in Bed

The best way to prevent a cigarette fire in your home is to refrain from smoking inside. If you choose to smoke indoors, avoid doing so while lying in bed. Falling embers can easily ignite clothing, bedding and your mattress. Because you may not be alert enough to properly extinguish a cigarette, you should also refrain from smoking inside if you are excessively drowsy.

Never Leave Cigarettes Unattended

Whether indoors or outside, leaving a lit cigarette unattended can be dangerous. The burning object can fall from its resting place and ignite surrounding combustibles. Embers can also fall into potentially hazardous areas, such as cushions, the carpet, or dry leaves.

Keep Fire Extinguisher Accessible

Any flame inside or near your residence poses a potential danger. Keeping a fire extinguisher accessible can help you smother a small blaze, minimizing damage and fire cleanup requirements.

No homeowner wants to endure a blaze and a time-consuming fire damage restoration project. Although refraining from smoking in or near your residence is the safest way to prevent a cigarette fire, employing conscientious practices can minimize the threat.

How Can You Deal With Water Issues in Your Home?

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

It is never fun to find water damage somewhere in your house.

What To Do After Your Home Is Affected By Water

Flooding from sewer backups, broken pipes and heavy rains can cause a lot of water damage in your Oklahoma City, OK, home. Figuring out what to do after your home is affected by this water is not always intuitive. You may feel overwhelmed and discouraged but following this quick guide can make it easier for you to get your life back to normal.

Get Some Help

You should not try to tackle a water cleanup project on your own. Not only can this lead to extra stress, but if you do anything incorrectly, you may end up needing to do more repairs than if the cleanup had been done correctly the first time. A residential water remediation team can help you with almost every aspect of the cleanup process.

• Performing the initial inspection of the damage.
• Figuring out what caused the water damage.
• Removing standing water and drying out the space.
• Cleaning salvageable belongings.
• Replacing destroyed building materials.
  
  

With a cleanup crew in your corner, you do not have to worry about finding the cause of the flood or drying out your house. Instead, you can sit back as the work is completed by professionals.

Call Your Insurance

You should also call your insurance provider. An agent may be able to help you figure out if the damages are covered by your insurance policy. The source of the water, such as broken pipes or torrential rain, often affects whether the damage is covered by a typical insurance policy. Because all coverage can be slightly different, you need to work directly with your provider to make sense of your unique situation.

It is never fun to find water damage somewhere in your house. Figuring out what to do after a pipe burst or rainwater fills your basement can take some time. However, you need to act quickly to ensure the damage does not get worse than it already is.

Characteristics of Black Water

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Characteristics of Black Water

When your commercial building in Edmond, OK, floods, you may not realize that the damage can vary based on the source of the water. Flooding usually falls into one of three categories—clean, gray or black. If a pipe bursts, for example, your commercial restoration crew may not have to worry about the decontamination process as much as they would if the flood water came from rain. To better understand these differences, you need to consider the characteristics of the third category of water damage.

Source

The source of the water may dictate whether it is considered black, gray or clean. Anything in the black category usually comes from one of the following sources:

• Sewage backup
  
• River overflow
  
• Heavy rain
  
  

Because the source plays such an important role in a flood's categorization, storm damage often falls into the black water category. In some unique circumstances, stormwater may still fit into the second, slightly cleaner grouping.

Contaminants

What is in the water is also important for its categorization. Blackwater is categorized as such when the liquid is combined with feces, harsh chemicals, viruses, spores or microbes. The more contaminated the water is the more likely it will fall into the black category rather than the gray.

Time

Of course, even flood water that was once considered clean can morph into this dirty category. When floods are allowed to sit in a commercial building for long periods of time, the liquid may pick up pollen, bacteria and chemicals from the environment. Too much time between the flooding and the cleanup essentially degrades the water into the black category.

The floodwater that fills your commercial building may be considered black if it has the three aforementioned characteristics. As you start going through the cleanup process, it may be helpful for you to learn more about the three classes of standing water that can affect your property.

Tips for Preventing Mold Growth in Your Home

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

Residential mold damage

Mold Prevention Tips

A musty odor in your home in Edmond, OK, is a sign that you may have a mold problem. The likely culprit is residual water damage that has not been thoroughly mitigated, but there are other factors that may contribute to the issue. Here are some tips for preventing mold from growing.

Repair Leaks Quickly
Fungus needs water to thrive, so basic mold prevention always starts with regularly inspecting the areas of your home where leaks tend to occur:

• Sink pipes
  
• Supply lines
  
• Appliances
  
• Toilets
  
• Water heaters
  
  

Not all leaks are obvious with a quick glance at a room. An unexplained hike in your water usage can also indicate that there is a leak somewhere. Rely on water damage specialists to find the problem and fix it before mold starts to grow.

Control Humidity Levels
Sometimes the moisture feeding the mold growth in your home comes from the air itself. Moisture can dampen surfaces, creating the perfect environment for mold to grow. Strive for a 45-50% humidity level in your home at all times. Use a dehumidifier or increase the airflow to lower the amount of moisture in the air.

Increase Ventilation in Basement and Bathrooms
Two areas of your home that are particularly prone to fungus growth are your basement and bathrooms. In addition to making sure surfaces are dry before you leave the room, you can lower your risk of a mold problem in these spaces by increasing the ventilation. Install fans and run them frequently throughout the day to circulate air and discourage mold growth.
Preventing mold in your home takes a bit of extra time and attention, but avoiding the hassle and expense of additional cleanup is well worth it. Mitigating water damage in a timely manner, maintaining low humidity levels and ensuring proper ventilation in typically closed-off areas can help to keep mold from growing.

5 Critical Steps To Clean a Home After a Fire

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Edmond, OK.

5 Critical Steps To Clean a Home After a Fire

Fires happen every day in homes across the U.S. They are scary events for the residents of a home. In addition to having the power to cause injury and death, a home fire creates a mess in the home. Smoke damage is one aspect of the impacts on a home and it can be tricky to clean. A local fire restoration company in Edmond, OK, is often your best resource for quick and effective fire cleanup. A team of highly trained specialists will come to your home and begin a proven process to restore your home. These steps are the foundation of a professional cleanup:

• Inspection and Assessment
• Water Removal and Drying
• Removal of smoke damage from all surfaces
• Cleaning and sanitizing
• Restoration
  
  

Steps 1 and 2 Explained
The inspection and assessment determines the scope of the problem. At this time the technicians can give you a better idea of the process and how long remediation efforts will take. If the damage is severe, a board-up and roof-tarp service might be needed to secure the home from additional damage from rains or vandalism. Water removal might be undertaken if fire fighting resulted in water damage.

Steps 3, 4, and 5 Explained
The impacts of a fire extend to the pernicious effects of smoke and soot damage. Both soot and smoke can permeate the home and require advanced equipment to completely remove. The step of smoke cleaning is also likely to include the cleaning and restoration of carpeting, furniture upholstery, clothes, and other personal belongings. It might include the use of air filtration devices to eliminate smoke odors. Cleaning and sanitizing wipes down all surfaces with effective and safe disinfectants. Finally, restoration includes repairing any items such as drywall or flooring that have been damaged. Your home is considered restored when all of the effects of the fire including smoke damage are completely addressed to your satisfaction.

How Deep Does Hail Damage Go?

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

After a hail storm, you should always check your roof.

Hail Damage To Your Commercial Building

Hail consists of large spheroid ice particles that have the potential to cause significant damage. While severe hail measures one inch or larger, hailstones that measure one-half inch or less can still cause significant damage by denting or dinging surfaces or causing roof damage that leads to leaks. Learn how hail damage affects commercial buildings in Oklahoma City, OK.

Surface Dents and Dings
Hail creates dents or dings in malleable surfaces. While this damage is often more considerable on vehicles, hailstones can still damage a building in any of the following ways:

• Breaking skylights or windows
  
• Denting metal roofing
  
• Causing dings or cracks in siding
  
• Puncturing roof membranes
  
  

While some hail damage is only superficial, hail that damages roofing materials has the potential to affect the interior of a structure. Roofers can identify and fix damaged areas that would otherwise be prone to leak.

Broken Roof Membranes
If a built-up roof or a roof membrane is damaged by hail, the roofing material may allow water to drip down to the roof deck or attic. A leak can affect building materials such as insulation and work its way down into a building interior.

Leaks Cause Interior Damage
A major roof leak that originates from hail damage has the potential to affect building materials and contents. From insulation in the attic to ceilings and drywall in finished interiors, hail has the potential to damage the exteriors and interiors of commercial structures.
In the year 2020, over 4,500 hail storms occurred across the United States. Maintaining roofing is the best way to prepare any commercial building for hail. It is easier to find and fix roof damage on a roof that is well-maintained, and it is less likely that minor hail damage will affect the interior. After a hail storm in Oklahoma City, OK, a property owner or manager should always check on the roof.

How Your Fire Sprinkler System Quickly Suppresses a Fire

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

Fire sprinkler system in Edmond, OK.

Fire sprinklers are an essential tool in controlling a fire in your  Edmond, OK, facility. Here is a look at how a sprinkler system functions.

Sprinkler System Parts

The main components of a sprinkler system are:

• Pipes that hold water under pressure
  
• Plug to hold the water back until the system activates
  
• Glass bulb filled with glycerin
  
• Deflector that directs water around the room
  
  

Sprinkler heads are placed around 12-15 feet apart and connected by pipes that are always filled with water. Fire suppression happens quickly once a fire activates the system.

How a Fire Activates the Sprinkler System
When a fire breaks out, the room temperature rises. At 160 degrees Fahrenheit, the glycerin in the glass bulb expands, breaking the bulb and springing the plug open. Water under pressure comes out of the pipe, and the deflector sprays it around the room.

Myths About Sprinkler Systems
Contrary to popular belief, smoke does not activate a sprinkler system. Smoke by itself will not produce the temperature change needed to expand glycerin and break the sprinkler bulb. Small amounts of heat, such as those produced by an appliance or burning candle, will not raise the temperature enough to activate the system.
The temperature change activates each fire sprinkler head individually. A contained fire will only set off the sprinklers that reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sprinkler System Advantages
Fire can do a lot more damage to your building than water from sprinkler heads. If a fire breaks out in your Edmond, OK, facility, fire suppression begins as soon as the system activates. The system contains the fire and may produce less water than firefighters need to put out a larger fire. It may be easier to do fire sprinkler cleanup and fire damage repair.
Hopefully, you will never need to use your fire sprinkler. If a fire breaks out, your system is more likely to minimize damage than if you didn't have one installed.

What Items Can Be Saved After a Flood?

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial storm damage in Oklahoma City, OK.

What Items Can Be Saved And What Should Be Replaced

After your commercial property in Oklahoma City, OK, is flooded, you need to determine what items can be saved and what should be replaced. In most cases, the answer depends on how long your items are exposed to moisture and their type of materials. Content cleaning of any items that can be restored saves you the expense of replacing them.

When Does Water Damage Begin?
Water damage and mold growth from a flood can begin immediately. As soon as it is safe to do so, start taking steps to protect your property until a professional restoration company can begin work:

• Prevent more water from entering if possible.
• Hang up rugs and textiles.
• Mop or blot water from tabletops and furniture surfaces.
• If furniture is on wet carpet, place aluminum foil or wood blocks between carpeting and furniture legs.
• Move books or colored objects from wet carpet.
  

In warm weather, air conditioning can assist with the drying process.

What Items Can I Keep?
Generally speaking, most non-porous materials can be restored, while porous materials may need to be replaced. Porous materials include wood furniture and baseboards, ceiling tiles, books, paper products, and drywall. Non-porous materials include metal shelving, plastic furniture, countertops and concrete floors.
The longer an item has been exposed to water or moisture, the more likely it will sustain damage. Items exposed to black water, or very contaminated water, require special consideration.

How Are Items Cleaned?
A restoration company can use various methods of content cleaning on items. Dry or wet cleaning, foam cleaning, immersion cleaning and abrasive cleaning are a few possible methods. The technique used depends on the object's material makeup. Sanitizing and disinfecting treatments can be applied where needed.
Content cleaning can reduce the number of items you have to discard after a flood in your Oklahoma City, OK, property. The sooner you can remove items from flooding and moisture, the better your chances are restoring them.

3 Ways To Prepare Your Home for a Fire

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

Install a smoke alarm in every bedroom of your home.

Three Ways You Can Prepare Your Home

No one ever expects to have a fire in their home; however, the problem with fire is that it’s unpredictable. Since you can’t foresee if your home will be involved in one, it’s best to employ fire preparation strategies. Here are three ways you can prepare your Edmond, OK, home.

1. Install Smoke Alarms
The best thing you can do to reduce your risk of injury or death is to install smoke alarms in every bedroom of your home. The National Fire Protection Association states that your risk of dying in a home fire is reduced by 50% if you have working smoke detectors. This statistic alone should encourage all homeowners to install alarms.
Each bedroom needs to have an alarm, and the area right outside each bedroom should also have an alarm. Make sure that every level of your home has a working smoke alarm and that the alarms are interconnected. This means that if one beeps, the rest should also beep, ensuring the whole household can hear it wherever the fire occurs.

2. Educate Family Members
Another fire preparation strategy is to educate family members. Young children should know what a smoke alarm sounds like and what to do if they hear it beep. Teach children the fire safety training of stop, drop and roll if their clothes should catch flame. All family members should also know how to call 9-1-1.

3. Establish an Emergency Plan
A major part of educating family members is creating an emergency plan. Identify two ways for individuals to get out of every room, and teach children that their goal is to get outside and stay outside. Create an outdoor family meeting place and call 9-1-1 from a cell phone or neighbor’s phone.
Fire preparation doesn’t need to be difficult or time-consuming. Follow these three tips to prepare your household in case of a fire.

5 Things You Should Know About Water Damage

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

A simple dripping pipe can cause water damage to spread quickly.

5 Things You Should Know About Water Damage

Though water is the source of life, it is a mess when it gets into your home in Oklahoma City, OK. There are several things you need to know in case a damaged water line, pipe burst, or natural disaster strikes your home.

1. Water Damage Develops Fast
Even a simple dripping pipe can cause water damage to spread quickly. Once water enters your home, the drywall, carpets, and hardwood flooring can all be damaged. While it may start fairly isolated, untreated spots can see mold growth that carries the damage further.

2. It Can Get Expensive
What may seem like a small leak can still do a lot of damage. A water restoration company may have to take serious measures to salvage your house. This can leave you owing thousands of dollars.

3. It Is Often Avoidable
While natural disasters are unavoidable, issues like a pipe burst are often completely preventable. All you need to do is take proper precautions. Consider installing a leak detection system, upgrading your older plumbing, and having regular maintenance performed.

4. Your Insurance May Cover the Damage
Your insurance typically covers some types of damage. Flood insurance covers any flooding caused by natural disasters, such as hurricanes, blizzards, and thunderstorms. Meanwhile, a standard homeowner's policy covers unexpected internal disasters, such as a broken appliance line.

5. It Doesn’t Completely Destroy Your Home
The good news is that you can salvage many damaged items and materials. If you act quickly, a restoration company that offers content cleaning should be able to dry out your belongings and your house. Therefore, you need to contact the professionals immediately and get the ball rolling on restoration work.
Flooding, whether from rain or a pipe burst, can do a lot of damage to your home and personal belongings. Fortunately, knowing these facts can help you be prepared for any water crises that may occur.

5 Tips To Salvage Flood-Damaged Household Items

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage clean up services in Edmond, OK.

Steps To Take To Minimize The Damage

If a broken pipe recently led to a flood of water in your home in Edmond, OK, it is likely some of your household goods sustained damage. Before throwing important items out, however, it is worth trying to salvage what you can. Here are five tips that may help you get some of your possessions back.

1. Put Down the Hair Dryer
When it comes to removing the water, gentle air drying is best. Even if you think your hairdryer, oven, iron, or sunlight will work, think again. These harsher methods can cause even more damage. If you need professional help, a water damage remediation team like SERVPRO can use industrial fans and dehumidifiers to get the job done faster.

2. Separate Wet Materials
Next, look inside your drawers, cabinets and photo albums. Very carefully separate wet items and place paper towels between damaged book pages.

3. Clear Out Dirt and Debris
Water in your home should not be your only concern. Wherever you see dirt or debris, you will need to remove it. Gently brush items off, and avoid rubbing. Depending on the material, dry cleaning can be another solution.

4. Rinse and Dry Photographs
You may be hesitant to put your beloved photos near more water, but carefully rinsing them can help get them clean. Just be careful you do not touch the photos while they are wet. Allow time to air dry before picking them up again.

5. Focus on What Is Most Important
At the end of the day, you may not be able to salvage everything you own. For that reason, it is a good idea to stay focused on items that mean the most to you. Whether something is important for sentimental or financial reasons does not matter. What matters is that it is important to you.
When there is water in your home, it can be devastating to lose your belongings to flooding. That said, there are steps you can take to minimize the damage.

Know Who To Call When Your Commercial Property Floods

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Oklahoma City, OK

It’s the call no business owner wants to receive: “The building is flooded and there’s water everywhere!” Naturally, you may have many thoughts and questions going through your mind, such as who to call for water cleanup and how you can protect your property from water damage. The sooner you can get someone on the task, the better — the longer water sits or continues to flow, the greater the damage and cost.

Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS)

If the flooding is at all extensive, you need a commercial drying specialist who is an expert in the water cleanup process for commercial spaces. Commercial spaces are much more complicated and often larger than residential ones and require specific knowledge of the equipment, systems and variables that come into play.

The Remediation Process

IICRC certified specialists work according to industry standards, utilizing proven methods and the latest technology to create a total remediation strategy for your specific case.

Investigation: A broken pipe or damaged roofing might be obvious sources of flooding, but sometimes the cause is hidden or multi-faceted. A CDS has extensive experience in knowing what to look for and where to find it, so nothing is left to chance and you decrease your risk of developing additional problems down the road.
Cleanup: Once the water is removed, your CDS will turn his or her focus to cleaning any carpets and fabrics and drying out electronics, equipment or electrical systems. Commercial floods can affect a multitude of areas, and certified specialists have the experience and training to address it all.
Preventative Measures: The CDS and remediation team will use highly specialized equipment to make sure the area is thoroughly dried out so you will not have a mold issue later on. They’ll also advise you about what steps you can take to prevent further damage in the future.

Know where you can find qualified specialists in your Oklahoma City, OK, area before disaster strikes. Then if the unthinkable happens, you’ll know the first call you need to make for water cleanup and remediation.

How Fast Mold Can Grow After a Leak or Flood

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Edmond, OK

Mold spores are microscopic organisms in the air. They can be found almost anywhere. Mold growth is very common after water damage as it is difficult to clean and dry things fast enough. Mold can occur in as little as 24 to 48 hours when mold spores find the right environment. If you suspect your building in Edmond, OK, has become infected with mold, you should conduct a mold inspection.

Where Mold Can Grow

All mold needs to thrive is warm, moist air and some sort of organic material for the spores to digest. Mold can grow on almost any damp porous or pulpy surface.

• Carpet
• Drywall
• Wood
• Ceiling tiles
• Insulation
• Plants
• Cardboard
• Furniture
• Paper
• Books

Mold is often discovered after leaks and floods. It is left behind by water damage that is not cleaned quickly and efficiently enough.

What You Can Do
Addressing any leaks and floods as soon as possible can help mitigate the damage from mold. Invest in a good filtration system to lessen the amount of mold spores in the air. A quality ventilation system could help to expel excess moisture. You could also take proactive steps in mold prevention by using mold-resistant building products. Both mold-resistant drywall and moisture-resistant drywall are excellent options to consider for areas that will frequently be exposed to high humidity such as bathrooms and laundry rooms. There are different types of paints that contain mold inhibitors. Either during initial construction or during any process of rebuilding, look into what building products currently exist on the market to help in the prevention of mold.
After a water loss like a leak or flood, the focus is often on cleaning and drying what you can immediately see. Water damage often leads to mold just below the surface of many organic materials. If you suspect mold growth but have not been able to locate it through a self-inspection, consider consulting mold remediation specialists who can use professional equipment to conduct a more intensive search.

The Damaging Impacts of Water

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can cause damage to your wooden floor

No matter the source, water on the loose in a home in Oklahoma City, OK, can cause serious impacts. It can result in the swelling of wood and the saturation of porous items such as upholstery and carpeting. If the water is contaminated with sewage or other harmful substances, even more damage will result. Fast action by professionals can save harm to items and reduce the overall impact of a leak. An experienced water remediation company will arrive on-site within hours of being called. Qualified technicians will use advanced equipment and techniques to quickly rid a property of water.

Water and Time

The more time water is given to act on materials, the more damage is likely to occur. Swelling wood and delamination of furniture can begin to worsen in just a few hours. Technicians use the following techniques to remove water from a home:

• Air dryers
  
• Industrial fans
  
• Vacuums
  
• Dehumidifiers
  
• Testing
  
  

If left untreated, water from a supply line leak will eventually begin to create odors in the home and cause dyes in fabrics to bleed. In a matter of days, mold can begin to grow into colonies that penetrate drywall and other porous materials.

Professionalism and Experience
Experienced technicians are needed to counteract the corrosive effects of water. A timely water pipe repair will stop water from flowing into the property. Moisture extraction removes standing water and prevents the worst impacts of warping and swelling wood. Damage restoration technicians will test materials to see if they can be salvaged. A restore versus replace mentality costs less and saves family heirlooms. Eventually, even clean water will break down all but the hardiest materials. It can tarnish metals and foster microbial growth.
Homeowners will regret it if they do not take a water leak seriously. In many cases, the work of a professional crew is the only solution to widespread damage to a property.

5 Ways To Protect Your Business From Fires

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Your building in Edmond, OK, should already have fire extinguishers

Fire Preparation Steps

Taking precautions to reduce the potential fallout caused by a fire is a matter of critical importance. Here are five smart fire preparation steps you can immediately apply within your office to contain the destruction posed by out-of-control flames.

1. Maintain and Inspect Safety Equipment
Your building in Edmond, OK, should already have fire extinguishers, an alarm system, and sprinklers. Nevertheless, disaster preparation tools are useless unless they are working properly. Periodically test everything to verify proper functioning. Also, keep equipment clean to lower the odds of eventual failure.

2. Remove Clutter
When growing a business, stuff can quickly accumulate. Before we know it, boxes of forgotten documents and outdated equipment can become serious obstacles to mobility. Besides blocking access to emergency exits, having flammable items strewn about is highly dangerous.

3. Develop an Exit Strategy
Knowledge of how to proceed during a blaze is an essential aspect of fire preparation. Be certain that employees have at least two options for leaving the building. Run impromptu drills to check that every worker has absorbed all information regarding how to react during an emergency.

4. Create an Outdoors Buffer
Areas with arid climates are vulnerable to brushfires. Remove trees and dry grass surrounding your office. Maintaining a buffer around your building of at least 100 feet will help reduce the odds a fire occurs.

5. Obtain Fire Insurance
Offices that suffer fire damage typically have their operations brought to a complete and sudden halt. Getting up and running again requires extensive soot cleaning and structural rebuilding best handled by a commercial fire restoration service. Check that your insurance policy provides both the right type and amount of fire coverage. With the appropriate terms in place, repair professionals can begin working on your building at the earliest moment possible.
Fire preparation is a priority for any responsible business owner. Take this executive mandate seriously by following the above recommendations.

5 Ways To Improve the Ease of Filing a Flood Claim

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

An insurance claim is a legal document

Five Things That Could Make the Life Of An Owner Easier

Insurance policies exist for dire times: situations in which major harm occurs to a property such as fire, mold, or storm damage. For many people, this doesn’t happen often, making it an unusual first when a claim is actually filed. The newness may be a bit intimidating at first, but homeowners take certain steps to smooth out the process. When initiating a flood claim, the following five things can make an owner’s life a bit easier.

1. Understand the Policy’s Nuances
An insurance claim is a legal document. Homeowners have paid toward it, but that payment is only useful if the damage falls into the policy’s rules and regulations. Be sure to check with your paperwork before calling. It’s best to know how the flood falls within your plan.

2. Make Immediate Contact With the Insurer
A flood claim needs to be made as soon as the dampness occurs. Allowing it to linger permits for secondary damage, allowing more harm and costing more money. Insurance agencies should see that the owner, in good faith, has tried to safeguard as much of the premises as possible so that less work and fewer costs may be incurred.

3. Mitigate the Problem
Repair some things while you wait for the insurance claim. If the flood happened because of a sewer break or broken pipe, then that cannot be delayed. Save the receipts and evaluations that go along with those expenses. It’s possible to apply for that funding later.

4. Photograph the Destruction
Evidence is a valuable supporting document. Using a camera, video, or photograph anything drenched. Save it to your computer, and send the file to the insurer.

5. Obtain Assessments
The insurance adjuster will visit the home, offering an overview of the restoration price. It’s important to have your own testing and evaluation performed by a water restoration company in Oklahoma City, OK. This may also be turned over for review, validating a request.
A flood claim takes time, so be patient, and go slow. In addition, focus on knowing your policy’s information and showing evidence that defends your case.

Avoiding Mold Cleanup May Turn Into a Lawsuit

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

Avoiding mold cleanup may turn into a lawsuit

Property managers and landlords in Oklahoma City, OK, have a lot on their plates and are often juggling various daily tasks. While some issues don’t require immediate attention, others should always be instantly tackled. Any plumbing issues or flooding fall into that category. If not addressed, the damage may lead to black mold. If that also isn’t quickly remedied, you could also be facing a lawsuit.

Causes for a Lawsuit

While the building standards may differ from town to town, landlords are still lawfully required to maintain and ensuring living conditions for tenants are free of safety or health hazards. If the mold forming within a property is toxic, such as black mold, that affects the habitability of the property. If the owner ignores the issues, the following may be viable reasons for a tenant to sue:

• An ongoing water leak or visible mold has been repeatedly reported, but the problem hasn’t been fixed.
  
• Tenant incurs expenses attempting to fix the problem on their own.
  
• Belongings have been damaged by the mold.
  
• Health issues have arisen directly linked to the fungus and have resulted in medical expenses or lost wages.
  
  

Remediation and Prevention
Dealing with a lawsuit on top of the damage to a property is a position no one wants to be in. Luckily, landlords can avoid that by taking mold remediation seriously. Upon the first report of a problem, visit the property to conduct an inspection. If the affected area is more than 10 square feet, your best bet is to call in a mold damage and restoration specialist to correctly address the problem and ensure it doesn’t come back. After experiencing mold damage, take preventive measures to keep it from happening again and communicate with tenants. Prevention tips include immediately drying wet areas, ensure the property has proper ventilation, keep humidity levels below 60% and verify that rainwater is draining away from the structure.
When faced with a black mold issue, ignoring will likely lead to bigger problems, including a potential lawsuit. Immediately addressing issues goes a long way in keeping your property in good condition and tenants happy.

Bursting Pipes Can Lead to Secondary Damage

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage

Steps To Prevent Further Damage In Your Commercial Building

If you’re a commercial property owner in Oklahoma City, OK, possibly the only thing worse than walking in to find actively bursting pipes is discovering secondary damage - like mold, rot or mildew - long after everything has been cleaned up. While it’s difficult to prevent any damage from occurring if you have a flood, there are things you can do to prevent further damage later on.

Phase 1: Initial Cleanup
The most important thing you can do to minimize both primary and secondary damage is to remove the water as quickly as possible:

• As soon as you have the water source turned off, immediately get in touch with a plumber and a water damage cleanup service.
  
• If possible, remove all equipment and furniture from the area, and put everything you can out of reach from the flood water. Be mindful of how quickly water can seep into cracks or be absorbed into anything porous.
  
• Meanwhile, your plumber will address the bursting pipes. He or she can diagnose the underlying problem, find any leaks or cracks, and fix the broken pipe. The plumber should also be able to advise you about what preventative measures you can take to avoid this problem in the future.
  
  
  

Phase 2: Drying Everything Out
Perhaps equally as important as removing the water is making sure that everything in your commercial space is thoroughly dry once the water is gone. Your water damage cleanup team will make sure that all the necessary steps are taken, such as:

• using dehumidifying equipment to dry out the air
  
• using monitoring equipment to track the drying process
  extracting excess water from carpeting and fabrics
  
• using high-speed fans to increase air circulation and drying
  
• using infrared cameras to search for trapped water
  
• using high-powered air scrubbers to clean the air
  
  
  

Bursting pipes and the resulting water damage can wreak havoc with your commercial property. Acting quickly to clean up the water and dry everything out will go a long way to prevent the secondary damage that can occur later on.

How To Prevent a Lint Fire

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

Scrape the lint off the screen after each load of laundry

Three Ways To Prevent A Laundry Room Fire

A lint fire, or any type of dryer fire, at your Edmond, OK, home can cause serious damage. Fortunately, a little preventive maintenance minimizes the risk. 

1. Clean the Lint Trap
In your dryer, there is a screen that traps lint. Scrape the lint off the screen after each load of laundry. To make doing so more convenient, keep a small trash can in the laundry room and make it a habit to clean the lint trap before removing the clothes from the dryer.

2. Clean the Dryer Duct
Another key aspect of preventing a lint fire is regularly cleaning out the dryer duct. The duct is generally located at the back of the dryer and goes through the wall to a vent on the outside. Some dryers have sensors on them that will alert you when the duct is blocked. Even still, it is important to check for yourself. With the dryer turned on, go outside to the vent and make sure the air is coming out normally. If not, it is time to clean the duct. Even if the air seems to be flowing normally, clean the duct at least once a year.
Disconnect the power to the dryer, and shut off the gas valve if necessary. Carefully pull the dryer forward, being mindful of any gas lines. Disconnect the duct from the dryer’s exhaust vent. Then vacuum out the vent and the duct. You can also use a stiff brush to remove the buildup.

3. Upgrade the Dryer Duct
The ideal dryer duct is rigid metal. Flexible varieties can lose their shape over time and allow lint to build up. Remember not to use sheet metal screws when connecting sections of ductwork because the screws can trap lint.
Fortunately, a professional restoration service can help you repair fire damage after a lint fire. However, it is easier to perform a little routine maintenance and prevent such a fire in the first place.

Keep Mold Away by Keeping Moisture at Bay

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Mold is sneaky

Here Are Four Steps To Keep Mold Away

Mold is sneaky. A full-on infestation can get out of hand before you even realize there's an issue. Mold only needs a few simple factors to grow: oxygen, moisture, nutrients and temperatures between 41 and 104 degrees. Indoor environments usually easily provide oxygen and temperature demands, so the key to mold prevention is to avoid excessive humidity.

1. Keep Your Home Dry

Be aware of excess humidity in your home. If anything is affected by water damage, clean and dry it thoroughly and as fast as possible. Mold growth can begin within 24 hours of the introduction of moisture. 

2. Look for Warning Signs
Always be on the lookout for signs of water leaks or mold in your home. A musty odor is a good sign that mold is growing somewhere in the vicinity. This fungus is excellent at hiding so that it could be virtually anywhere (e.g., behind walls, in carpet, or in tiny crevices). Water damage restoration experts in Edmond, OK, can locate the source and take charge of the remediation process.

3. Remove Water-Damaged Materials
One of the essential elements of mold prevention is the removal of all water-damaged materials. Any soaked materials that can’t be thoroughly cleaned or completely dried within 48 hours should be removed. Carefully place them in trash bags or wrap them in heavy-duty plastic and put them outside. You can find mold-resistant materials to replace many of the damaged items. Fiberglass items are a good option because this material won’t provide nutrients for mold.

4. Inspect the Outside of the House
Regularly inspect the outside of your home for excess groundwater or condensation. Mold can grow into the earth if groundwater accumulates, and from there it may spread to the outside of the house. What's worse, it could eventually make its way indoors.
Mold prevention begins with remediating water damage as quickly as possible. Until the professionals arrive on the scene, use fans, dehumidifiers, and heaters to begin the drying process.

3 Types of Contaminated Flood Water

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

A spill from the dishwasher could be considered Category 2

Different Types Of Contaminated Water

Water damage can wreck havoc on your Oklahoma City, OK, home. That being said, not every home flood is the same. Flood water is categorized by the types of contaminants present. Understanding the differences between the different types of contaminated water can help you remediate the damage more effectively.

1. Clean Water Floods
Like their name implies, Category 1, or clean water floods, are categorized by an absence of contaminants. As the least dangerous types of floods, they typically originate from a supply line burst, a shower leak or some other type of clean water source. Just because these floods aren't as dangerous doesn't mean that they shouldn't still be taken seriously. A clean water flood can transform into a Category 2 flood if left untreated for too long.

2. Gray Water Floods
Gray water floods are also known as Category 2 floods. This flood contains mildly contaminated water, but nothing that could pose a biohazard risk. These floods are often caused when household appliances malfunction and flood, such as dishwashers and laundry machines. If left untreated for longer than 48 hours, a Category 2 flood will quickly become a dangerous Category 3 flood.

3. Black Water Floods
Category 3 floods, or black water floods, are the most dangerous of all. They are categorized by the presence of biohazards, such as human or animal fecal matter, raw sewage and dangerous chemicals or pesticides. You should never attempt to resolve a Category 3 flood by yourself, due to the possible health risks. Instead, you should contact water damage professionals as soon as you can. These floods are usually caused by toilet overflow, sewage back flow or a a flooding riverbank.
All types of floods are capable of inflicting serious amounts of damage. That being said, it's still important for you to learn the differences between the various types of contaminated water. Make sure to contact flood remediation experts for assistance, no matter which type of flood you're currently dealing with.

5 Ways to Protect Your Building from Flood Damage

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Create and practice an emergency evacuation plan

5 Ways to Protect Your Building from Flood Damage

Protecting your commercial building in Oklahoma City, OK, is an important part of being a business owner. Disasters, such as storm and flood damage, can strike at any time and it's important that you take the necessary steps to protect your building. The following tactics can help you keep your property, your business and your employees safe in the event of a severe storm.

1. Pay Attention to Emergency Alerts.
Subscribing to a credible emergency alert system can help you stay up to date on severe weather activity. Pay attention to what the authorities have to tell you and make sure to follow their directions if they instruct you to evacuate.

2. Create and Practice an Emergency Evacuation Plan.
Meet with your employees to draft and discuss potential evacuation plans. Once you create an effective strategy, you need to make sure to regularly practice emergency protocol with all of your employees. This can help eliminate accidents and unnecessary panic, if flooding does strike.

3. Protect Important Documents.
Any physical documents need to be sealed away in waterproof containers, as well as elevated on high shelves that are at least one foot above the projected flood level. It's also important to create multiple backup copies of electronic documents. You can store these on the Cloud to protect them from flood damage.

4. Trim Back Overgrown Trees and Shrubbery.
Overgrown tree branches can quickly become dangerous projectiles in the event of a storm. Make sure to regularly trim back any plant growth that could potentially inflict storm damage on your building's roof or windows.

5. Install Backup Generators.
If the flood isn't severe enough to warrant an evacuation, you want to make sure that your employees can continue to conduct business. Install a backup generator to supply your building with power and reduce the amount of lost income.
The above precautionary measures can help you protect your property, business and employees from flood damage. If your building has fallen victim to flooding or storm damage, make sure to contact storm remediation professionals as soon as you can.

4 Steps to Stop Looters After a Fire

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Boarded up windows and other entrances are the primary defense against looters

Follow These Tips To Deter Any Looters Immediately

Has your building in Oklahoma City, OK, been damaged by a fire? Fire damage is devastating, and, among all the other overwhelming aspects of a fire is the possibility of looters. If your city is prone to looting, it may be a good idea to prepare your building and seek prompt repairs so your possessions can be safe.

1. Remove Valuables
If it is safe to enter the building, be sure to remove as many valuable possessions as you can. Important items to take with you include official documents or papers, jewelry or jewels, operational electronics and cash or credit cards.

2. Board Windows, Doors, and Holes
Boarded up windows and other entrances are the primary defense against looters. After all, deterring crime is the best way to stop crimes from occurring. Most people aren't going to waste time and make excessive amounts of noise hacking through the plywood to enter a burned building. When covering holes, be sure to use at least an inch thick sheets, and nail an inch apart along every side of the board. Firefighters also may have knocked holes in your windows or roof to allow smoke to escape. Be sure to check everywhere and use proper judgment on which areas should be boarded up.

3. Contact a Professional
If you haven't already, it essential that you contact a professional service to start the process of fire cleanup in your building. It's best to contact a service with fire damage experience that will arrive promptly and work with efficiency so that your building can be made secure as soon as possible.

4. Notify the Police
Inform your local police force of your situation and circumstances. Ideally, they can have officers check the area periodically. Additionally, if a theft would occur, the officers would already be informed and up-to-date on the situation.
It's best to follow these tips as soon as you can, as to deter any looters immediately. Criminals will take even the smallest window of opportunity given, and fire damage is enough of a hassle on its own.

Drying Tips After a Plumbing Issue

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

A burst pipe in Edmond, OK

Water Damage Tips

If your business in Edmond, OK, experiences a severe plumbing issue such as a pipe burst or supply line leakage, it's important to act quickly to mitigate damage. Besides calling in a water damage restoration company and removing any excess water, there are other mitigation procedures you should follow, such as drying out the building and materials.
Follow these water damage tips to begin the restoration process for your building.

Circulating Air
Air circulation is one of the quickest and easiest ways to start the drying process. You can circulate air by:

• Opening doors and windows
• Using fans
• Utilizing high-speed air movers
  

Air circulation will accelerate the drying process by speeding up moisture evaporation. Although it is not the most effective way to spot-dry, it will begin the drying process for ceilings, walls, rugs and furniture.
Be sure to use this and other cleaning tips as soon as possible, as delaying the drying process can promote mold and bacteria growth, which may cause problems later on.

Dehumidifying
Another essential water damage tip is to dehumidify the area. A dehumidifier is used to remove humidity and moisture from an enclosed area. You can use a store-bought dehumidifier or rent one from an equipment rental company, depending on the size of the area. It is especially helpful for rooms with limited outside access, such as basements.
Be sure to follow the instructions for a dehumidifier, such as shutting windows and doors and changing the water if it doesn't self-drain.

Using a Shop Vac
A shop vac is essentially a wet-dry vacuum. It can be used for smaller areas that have excess moisture or water, such as carpets and floorings. A professional repair company may bring their own commercial shop vacs, but you can also rent them.
Use these water damage tips to begin the drying process after a major plumbing issue or flood in your business.

3 Things To Consider When Buying Storm Shutters

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Different types of shutters are rated to withstand different levels of force

Choose The Right Protection For Your Home

If a storm is bearing down on Edmond, OK, you’ll want to make sure your home and your family are protected. High winds and flying objects can cause devastating damage and require extensive storm restoration work. When it comes to window protection, homeowners have many options to choose from. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing the right protection for your home.

1. Cost
Storm shutters vary widely in cost, from inexpensive plywood sheets to custom fitted impact glass or motorized roll-down shutters. When you’re calculating costs, keep in mind not only the cost of the window coverings themselves, but also the cost of installing them, as well how long they’re likely to last.

2. Ease of Installation
Storm shutters do you no good if you can’t effectively get them into place before a storm hits. Permanent window covering options are typically a costlier initial investment for materials and labor, but they can be locked into storm mode quickly and easily when needed. Temporary options, like storm panels, cost less up front but require more time, effort, and skill to install when the forecast calls for high winds. Temporary methods also involve removing and storing the shutters, so make sure you have adequate storage space, if necessary.

3. Protection Level
Different types of shutters are rated to withstand different levels of force. You may need varying levels of protection for certain windows, depending on which side of your house they’re on, which floor they’re on, their size, and other factors. Large openings, such as sliding glass doors, require more reinforcement than smaller windows. Windows that face the beach might be more likely to bear the direct force of hurricane-level winds, but less likely to be hit with debris.
Choosing the right window protection method depends on your location, installation skills, financial ability, storage space, and other factors. What’s important is that your chosen protection method is in good condition and installed correctly before high winds begin to blow. When done properly, whatever method you choose will help your home and your family stay safer during storms.

Preventing Mold After it Rains

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Open your windows so air can circulate in your home

Prevention Tips

Where there's moisture, mold is sure to follow. While many homeowners find peace in a bit of rain, others know that the weather is simply a harbinger for black mold. If your home in Edmond, OK, experiences frequent mold growth after it rains, utilize the following prevention tips.

1. Implement Proper Home Ventilation.
Oftentimes, your home's moisture problem is a result of inadequate ventilation. After all, if the water vapor can't escape then it has no choice but to sit around and wait for mold to form.

2. Dry All Puddles and Standing Water.
This is a trick you need to be especially vigilant for, especially if your household has young children or pets. Tracking water into the house is a recipe for unwanted water damage, which eventually leads to black mold if not dried quickly and properly.

3. Disinfect Wet Spots.
If you believe that you didn't clean up a puddle quickly enough, give yourself some peace of mind by disinfecting the area. This can help discourage fungal growth and expedite your mold cleanup efforts.

4. Encourage Proper Air Flow.
Promoting proper air flow is a great way to prevent excessive moisture from settling on surfaces in your home. A floor fan can certainly help aid in these efforts.

5. Purify the Air.
Mold spores are everywhere, even if you can't see them. Investing in an air filter that's specifically designed to trap and eliminate mold spores can significantly reduce your chances of falling victim to unwanted mold growth.

6. Search for Signs of Leaks.
Leaks aren't always easy to find, especially if you don't take the time to look for them. Water stains in your ceiling often indicate the presence of a roof leak. Likewise, you should inspect your basement to make sure water isn't running down the walls. This could be a sign of a leaky foundation.
Implementing the above tactics can certainly help prevent black mold from entering your home next time it rains, but they can't guarantee absolute safety. Next time you're faced with a significant mold problem, contact mold remediation experts for additional assistance.

What Do Noisy Pipes Mean?

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

What do noises in pipes mean?

Noises Coming From Your Pipes? What Does It Mean?

Plumbing is an intricate and complex system, and every home is vulnerable to a pipe break or a pipe burst, especially in the annual freeze-thaw cycles of Oklahoma City, OK. Sometimes you might hear mysterious noises coming from your pipes such as:

• Banging
  
• Humming
  
• Gurgling
  
• Whistling
  
• Rattling
  
  

But what do these noises mean, and should you be worried? If in doubt, it is always a good idea to call your local plumbing and water damage experts, but here are a few clues as to what these sounds might be signaling.

1. Water Pressure Problems
If you hear banging or humming noises, the likelihood is high that there's an issue with your water pressure. To prevent a pipe break, call in professionals to determine whether your water pressure is too high. It's always smarter to prevent a pipe burst in the first place than to fix broken pipelines after the fact.

2. Blockages and Back-Ups
Banging or gurgling may indicate an obstruction in your water lines that is getting in the way of the water flow. If left unattended, these blockages can lead to major problems in the future, so if you hear these sounds coming from your pipes, you'll be thanking yourself soon for calling in professionals sooner rather than later.

3. Loose Components
Whistling, rattling, and squealing noises can all come from various parts of the plumbing system coming loose and shaking around. It could be the large metal contraptions holding the pipes up, or the tiniest washer or valve wiggling loose, but any flaw in the water line can cause water damage disaster in a heartbeat. Many of these potentially moving parts are probably hidden in your home, so you'll need a professional to come in and give you a diagnosis.
Just remember, time is of the essence when it comes to a pipe break just waiting to happen. Properly functioning pipes don't make much noise at all, so if you hear anything unusual, just ask for help.

Why You Should Buy a Smart Smoke Detector

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

Smart Safety Devices

Smart technology is everywhere nowadays. So it is no surprise that smart features have been added to smoke alarms. Some may be wary of these updated detectors. After all, the traditional smoke alarm has worked effectively for years.
However, there are some benefits to smart alarms. A smart smoke detector can bring an extra level of fire protection to your Oklahoma City, OK, home. You can be notified of a blaze while you are outside the house, allowing you to contact emergency personnel immediately. Specifically, smart devices send a push notification to your phone alerting you that the alarm is beeping.
If firefighters respond to your burning home right away, they can extinguish the blaze before it causes extensive harm. Fire damage cleanup professionals will also have less work to do, so your house will get back to normal more quickly.
There are three main types of smart fire safety devices. Which one is best for you depends on your specific needs.

1. Smart Detectors
A smart smoke alarm is essentially a detector that is connected to the internet. Some of these detectors can detect carbon monoxide in your home, as well. Many of them even notify you when the battery is low and let you silence the alarm from your phone. Each smart detector typically costs approximately $100.

3. Smart Listeners
If you do not want to replace every smoke detector in your house, you can opt for a smart listener instead. This device connects to all the alarms on a floor and alerts you when one of those alarms is beeping. Each one costs $50 to $100, making listeners ideal for those in big homes with several detectors.

3. Smart Batteries
There are few smart batteries on the market at the moment. As with smart detectors, smart batteries tell you when the alarm is beeping and when the battery is running low.
You should consider adding a smart smoke alarm, listener, or battery to your home. All three options can help mitigate any fire damage.

Commercial Storm vs. Flood Damage

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Flood damage in Edmond, OK

Understand The Difference Between Storm and Flood Damage

Storms can lead to flooding, but flood damage is not the same as storm damage. Although this sounds like a riddle, it is important to understand the difference between the two when you are insuring your Edmond, OK, commercial property.

Storm Damage
Storms can cause all sorts of damage to a property. The following are some common ways that a storm can damage a business building:

• Wind
• Hail
• Lightning
  

Damage from the above sources are likely covered under your commercial property insurance policy. However, damage caused by rain is a bit trickier. If the rain entered the building after damage caused by the storm, such as through a roof leak caused by strong winds, the water damage is likely classified as storm damage and covered under the same policy. However, in other situations, water damage from heavy rains may only be covered by a separate flood policy.

Flood Damage
For insurance purposes, flooding is defined as the inundation of two or more acres or properties that are normally dry. The inundation can be caused by heavy rains, mudflow, or overflow from rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. If the water damage is classified as flooding, it will only be covered if you have a flood policy.
There is another important difference between water damage from a storm and from a flood. While the water from a storm usually comes as rainwater from the sky, flood water has accumulated on the ground and become contaminated with mud, sewage, etc. This is important to keep in mind during the restoration process. Items damaged by floodwater should be thoroughly sanitized. If they cannot be fully disinfected, they should be thrown away.
It is important to discuss your business’s needs with an insurance agent and carefully read through all policies to ensure your business is properly covered in the event of flood damage. In addition to an insurance policy, it is important to select a certified restoration company to help get your property back to normal quickly and safely after a flood or storm.

3 Differences Between Storm and Flood Damage

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Differences Between Storm and Flood Damage

During a storm in Oklahoma City, OK, there may be damage done to your building. While you may think that all storm damage is the same, this is not always the case. There is one very important distinction that should be made. This is that floods are considered to be a separate issue from other types of water damage that may occur during a storm. The following are a few differences between the two.

1. The Source of the Water

The first difference between storm and flood damage is the source of the water that enters your building. During a storm, leaks can occur, allowing water inside. Even if the amount is significant, this is not considered to be a flood. Flood waters are those that rise up from the ground and enter the building from below. When trying to determine the type of water damage you have, this is probably the easiest way.

2. The Category of Water

Rain is classified as category 1 water, which means that it is clean and will not cause any significant harm to you. While flood waters may have risen because of the rain, they are classified differently. Once the rainwater begins to rise and mix with other sources, such as sewer water, it becomes category 3. This water is highly contaminated and should be avoided. Flood damage will require thorough sanitization.

3. Insurance Coverage

In most cases, water damage is included in commercial insurance policies. However, most flood damage is not and, if it is, coverage will usually be limited. If there are often floods in the area, it may be a good idea to invest in a separate flood policy to make sure that your property is covered during an emergency.
If your property has been damaged by flooding or anything else during a storm, you will likely need repairs. Contact a cleanup and restoration company to get your building back to its previous condition as soon as possible.

What Is Included in Commercial Insurance Fire Damage Policies?

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Here's What Is Usually Covered By Most Insurance Policies

Fire damage is one of the most frequent insurance claims in the United States. In 2017 alone, almost 500,000 structure fires were reported, causing around $10.7 billion in damages. Not only do fires cause damage with the heat and combustion, but smoke gets everywhere and fire-fighting substances, such as water and foam, cause tremendous damage. Here’s what is usually covered by most insurance policies in Edmond, OK, although it should be noted that each company has different terms.

Structural Damage

Depending on the policy and property ownership, your policy may cover repairs and replacements to the structure, including

• Roof
• Supporting structure
• Stucco, siding and concrete
• Windows
• Plumbing and heating systems
• Interior walls, framing and painting
  
  

Ask your insurance adjuster if these are covered by your policy. Even if you rent your location, some policies will cover these types of damage, often under general liability, in what’s called “damage to premises rented.” Note that your coverage should include replacing items, such as carpet and roofing tiles, if a perfect match isn’t made between the replacement items and older ones, under the “uniform and consistent appearance” clause.

Fire Damage Coverage

Most items are covered by the majority of commercial property insurance policies. However, there are exceptions, and terms of individual policies can vary widely. Some policies cover actual cash value (the original value of the item minus accumulated depreciation), while others cover replacement costs. Replacement policies cost more but can help avoid massive out-of-pocket expenses.

Your policy may cover fees charged for fire-fighting services and smoke damage. Some policies include coverage for loss of business income during the disaster and the recovery time. Mold damage may be included, but this is now often being specifically excluded, so check to make sure you have a mold endorsement.

Fire damage to your business in Edmond, OK, doesn’t have to be the end. If you are careful and read your insurance policy, most forms of fire mitigation can be covered, not only providing peace of mind but possibly avoiding a bankruptcy and closing of your business altogether.

Timing Is Important When It Comes to Mold

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth in Oklahoma City, OK

The presence of black mold in your Oklahoma City, OK, commercial building is a threat to your business, so calling for professional mold removal is crucial. Bringing your establishment back to normal quickly sounds appealing, but is not always realistic. The process may take longer than expected, but the benefits are worth the investment. Learn more about timely action, removal length, and how to reduce the wait.

Quick Action Against Mold

Once you find evidence of mold inside your property, you will need to call emergency mold specialists immediately to combat the problem. The longer you leave mold alone, the more it thrives and grows, increasing the damage. A fast response stops its progress and saves you money on cleaning and repairs. Any type of water damage can also lead to mold growth due to the high humidity. Bring in repair professionals quickly to fix the damage and prevent mold.

Removal Length
The length of mold removal is not the same in every case. The following factors can impact how long it takes to eliminate mold in the affected area:

• Multi-step approach (inspection, isolation, removal, clean-up)
• Location of mold
• Material where mold grows
• Quantity of mold present
  

These variables affect the techniques and equipment the specialists use. Generally, the process takes between three to seven days to complete. Even though waiting that long seems frustrating, it is the most effective way to eliminate growth.

Preventing a Long Process
While mold spores are everywhere and are impossible to entirely eradicate, there are steps you can take to reduce the damage and make the removal shorter. If you see mold or water damage, call the appropriate professionals immediately so they can resolve the issue before it escalates. If there is only water damage, dry the area with mops, sponges, and fans. If mold is already present, avoid touching it since this can spread spores.
Mold removal can make it difficult for your business to open soon. However, starting this process fast minimizes the damage, making the procedure more time-efficient.

Can Flooded Electronics Be Salvaged?

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage to electronics in Oklahoma City, OK

Water damage occurring from flooding in Oklahoma City, OK, can leave you feeling helpless. Loss of property can occur, and though insurance should cover a great deal of your loss, some things simply aren't replaceable. This can be true of electronics that may not have been documented in your policy. Most people would probably assume flooded electronics aren't salvageable, but this isn't necessarily true.

Safely Securing Your Electronic Devices

The first thing you'll want to do is remove your devices from the flooded area so that further electronic damage is avoided, but this must be done with caution. For areas of your home that have experienced severe damage, don't try to secure your items on your own. In these types of scenarios the tough jobs are best left to a professional restoration company.
Some things you'll have to consider if you are retrieving the devices on your own:

• Never remove items that are still connected to a power source when there is standing water.
  
• Make sure the power to the home is disconnected before removing flooded electronics.
  
• Avoid handling devices that are hot to the touch or are releasing smoke or steam.
  
• To avoid further damage, remove the battery and disassemble the device to allow it to dry.
  
  

Restoring Your Electronic Device
In order to clean your device, it will need to be completely disassembled, down to all cables, connectors and shields. The logic board has tiny components which will have a harder time drying, so to aid the process it will need to be completely submerged in isopropyl alcohol.
Scrub gently to clean the logic board of any deposits that have been left behind. Once, it's clean, aid in the drying process by using a cool blower, such as a hair dryer. Once dry, you can reassemble your device.
The damage caused to flooded electronics doesn't have to mean these devices are no longer usable. With a little elbow grease and patience, they can be revived and save you potentially thousands of dollars in seeking replacements.

How to Keep Your Employees Safe During Mold Removal

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your Oklahoma City, OK, building, you should have it removed as soon as possible. In most cases, you will likely not want to close your business entirely during the mold removal process as this can result in lost profits. It is important, however, to keep the safety of your employees in mind. The following are a few ways that you can help prevent them from having to work in a contaminated environment.

1. Use Containment Methods During Removal
While mold removal is being done, the workers will likely set up containment areas to keep the mold from spreading throughout the building. This will help keep the areas where employees are still working clean.

2. Provide Protective Items
If the area has been contained but you are still concerned about the safety of your employees, you may feel better if you provide them with some protective gear. Face masks will help prevent them from breathing in any contaminated air. Investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter is an option as well. These remove black mold spores and other impurities from the air, ensuring the area will be safe to work in.

3. Have Employees Work From Home
In cases of extreme mold growth, you may not feel comfortable having your employees come into work. If this is the case, you can always have them work from home. Depending on the severity of the contamination, removal can take more than a week, so closing the business during the process is not ideal. While there may be some limitations when work is done this way, it might be better than your other options.

When you need to have mold removal done, it is best to hire a professional mold remediation specialist. They will have the necessary training and experience to clean the area without creating a more hazardous environment for your employees. They will get the job done as quickly as possible, so you can get back to work sooner.

Mitigate Water Damage During a Flood Claim

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Storm damage in Edmond, OK

Mitigate Water Damage During a Flood Claim

Floods can be devastating, which is why it is vital to have flood insurance if your Edmond, OK, home is in an area in which they frequently happen. When one happens, homeowners need to make the necessary calls to submit a claim and get the cleanup process started. Unfortunately, if flooding isn’t just in your home, it could mean that adjusters have been inundated with claims. While waiting for the inspection and to get the water damage and restoration process going, preventing further problems also needs to be considered.

Secondary Damage

Flood damage doesn’t just mean water-logged belongings. It could potentially mean that harmful black water has entered the home or open your home up to other potential issues. If it is safe to enter the home, it is important to mitigate issues that you are able to.

Remove Water – If the flood insurance provider gives the go-ahead, removing excess water and beginning the dry-out process is the best way to minimize damage.
Mold Mitigation – A flood often presents the ideal environment for mold to grow. Removing saturated items within 48 hours can prevent mold damage from happening.
Secure the Home – If any windows were broken or the storm caused roof damage, it is important to put temporary coverings up to prevent damage from spreading or new damage from happening.

Document Everything
From the onset of the process and anything you do before the adjuster arrives, document everything. Take pictures or video of every aspect of the home from flooded carpets to ruined pictures. Before making any temporary repairs, take pictures of the before and after to ensure the insurance company has clear documentation of the damage.
While flood insurance is vital for many homeowners, there can be a delay in getting the restoration process going. Doing what you can and ensuring the damage is documented can minimize the damage and help the claim go more smoothly.

How and Where To Expect Mold Growth

7/25/2020 (Permalink)

Mold grows in unvented bathrooms, around leaky pipes, and underneath sinks with damaged seals

How To Prevent Mold Spreading In Your Home

If you’re worried about spreading mold in your Oklahoma City, OK, home then you may also have questions about this invader. Understanding the problem may help you take appropriate action if mold is found in your residence. Here’s what you may want to know.

1. How Mold Grows

Mold usually requires areas of high moisture such as a space near water or with high humidity. It prefers areas with dim to no light and feeds upon organic materials such as wood, paper, cloth, drywall, or plant matter. Because it is a fungus it creates colonies that may appear slimy or fuzzy. Mold may also range in color including, yellow, brown, white, grey, green, and black mold.

2. Where Mold Grows

A local mold remediation professional will usually start by checking out the areas of your home most vulnerable to spreading mold. This will include areas with high moisture such as bathrooms and under the kitchen sink, as well as spaces where condensation may occur such as a basement or crawlspace. Areas such as windows, doors, and attics may be next on the list as these spaces can form leaks. The professional-looking over your home can perform several tests to know for certain if mold is present in the suspected area.

3. Why Mold Spreads

One part of mold remediation is making sure that the mold has not spread to other areas of the home. Because mold is a fungi it can produce spores. These spores can then become airborne or attach to another object or being allowing them to be carried into new spaces. Remediation professionals can perform several tests to locate other affected areas if the mold has been spreading, and act accordingly.

If you want to prevent spreading mold in your home, it’s important to understand where mold is and how it grows. This will allow you to take the proper steps if mold is found. Remember, a remediation professional can help.

3 Aspects of Fire Damage

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Edmond, OK

Three Major Aspects of Fire Damage

Fire can damage the structure and contents of a commercial building. When estimating restoration costs, it is important to account for all of the effects of fire. Learn about three major aspects of fire damage to factor into a risk assessment, safety plan, and insurance claim for a commercial property in Edmond, OK.

1. Structural Components
One of the worst consequences of fire is damage that undermines a structure. This degree of damage necessitates extensive repairs. A commercial property owner should thoroughly document damage for an insurance adjuster before starting mitigation. Timely cleanup may limit the severity of primary or secondary damage.

2. Building Materials
Building materials that contribute toward comfort or have cosmetic value may also suffer damage. Fire may burn through or char drywall and destroy insulation. Have the affected area cleaned and replace these materials. Depending on the measures taken to extinguish a fire, standing water can compound fire damage. Pumping out water may be one of the earliest stages of fire mitigation and cleanup.

3. Contents
The contents of a commercial building that do not get incinerated may still get damaged by proximity to fire. This can take the form of heat damage or exposure to soot and smoke. Contents that have become charred have undergone chemical changes and will require replacement. It is important to thoroughly all clean furniture and fixtures to eliminate smoke odor. Electronics may need to undergo content cleaning or data recovery.
Fire damage can affect every aspect of a commercial building in Edmond, OK, from structural components to building materials and contents. The severity of a blaze will determine whether it is necessary to completely rebuild a structure, an affected area or just clean up smoke damage and do cosmetic repairs. Restoration experts can help property owners assess the damage and provide an estimate to support a commercial property insurance claim.

What Is Involved in the Fire Cleanup Process?

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

A fire in your home in Oklahoma City, OK can be devastating, and you are probably likely to want to start the process of cleaning your home. However, there are several steps that are helpful to take when cleaning smoke damage and other forms of damage from a fire in your home.

1. Taking Inventory

After a fire has taken place in your home, one of the first steps in the cleanup process is to take inventory of what damage has occurred. The items in your home, as well as the structure of the home itself, is examined by restoration professionals. Once you have an idea of what is damaged in your home, it is likely that you will have an estimate of how long the cleanup and restoration will take.

2. Cleaning

Once an assessment of your home has been made, the process of smoke cleaning and removing soot damage and smoke damage can begin. Many of your personal belongings, including clothes, photos and electronics can often be restored. Generally, a restoration company can help to determine the best methods to clean your belongings. If there is not a great amount of structural damage that has occurred, the process of cleaning may not take a great amount of time.

3. Removing Residual Odors

In addition to damaging items in your home, smoke can leave a lingering scent. While masking the odor with sprays or other products may be seen as a short-term solution, the smoke smell is likely to return. Methods to help remove the smell of smoke in your home can include replacing air filters, thoroughly sanitizing carpets, walls and ceilings and replacing the drywall in your home. After items in your home are clean and odors have been removed, reconstruction can begin if necessary.

Understanding the necessary steps to remove of smoke damage and other forms of fire damage can help you feel more at ease as the cleanup process begins in your home. If your home has already been damaged by a fire, it can be helpful to work with fire damage restoration experts.

How To Avoid Common Sewage Problems

6/20/2020 (Permalink)

Sewage backup in Oklahoma City, OK

3 Things Commercial Owners Can Do

A sewage cleaning entails far more than wiping down items. It's a complex situation that involves blocking off rooms, tearing out contaminated materials, and sanitizing space. All of this can take time, leading business owners in Oklahoma City, OK, to lose valuable sales; therefore, it's in your best interest to become proactive, understanding, and preventing sewage overflows and claims. Here are three things commercial owners can do.

1. Promote Proper Disposal
A toilet overflow occurs when something is blocking the lines. While this may seem simple to fix, it can become more serious. These blocks eventually inhibit water flow when someone runs something else in the building such as a shower or washing machine. The liquid can get blocked, exiting from the nearest source, often a commode; thus, to reduce the chances of this happening, pay attention to what goes down the line. Make sure all employees understand that only toilet paper should be flushed. Post notices for customers to understand this as well. In addition, grease and other congealing items should not be placed down sinks but disposed of within the trashcan.

2. Notice Foundation Changes
At times the sewage cleaning isn't necessitated from something inside. Overgrown tree roots can run into underground systems, creating cracks and obstructions. This small break can take in dirt and eventually stopping up. Eventually, it will bust and category 3 water moves into your establishment. To avoid this, walk the grounds, observing any unusual shifts in the soil, odd puddles developing, or cracks in the cement. If you're uncertain, a water restoration company such as SERVPRO could evaluate the problem, determining the source.

3. Snake the Lines
A clogged pipe can often be remedied by running a snake through the drains. While a plunger uses force to push something down, this tool provides more pressure and application. Should you hear gurgling noises or notice a slow flow, it may be a good time to pull it out and give it a go.
You may be able to avoid a sewage cleaning by remaining vigilant. Be cognizant of changes, acting promptly to dodge major complications.

How To Replace a Toilet in 6 Easy Steps

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

You can replace a leaking toilet in a few steps

How To Replace a Toilet in 6 Easy Steps

Having a leaking toilet in Oklahoma City, OK, is no fun. You have taken the plunge and have decided that a toilet repair is no longer an option for you. A water damage company has cleaned up the problems that the old leaky toilet has caused, and you have decided to replace it. You have already taken down the old toilet and ensured that the flange is still good, so how do you get the new toilet on? Follow these six easy steps to show you the way.

1. Add New Bolts to the Flange
Insert new bolts into the toilet flange. Make sure the bolts are tight.

2. Fix the Wax Ring to the Toilet, Align and Secure
Soften the wax ring by placing it in warm water. Then, take the ring and fix it to the bottom of the toilet. Line the toilet up with the bolts so that the wax ring is directly over the flange. Then, gently press the toilet down, making sure it stays in place to avoid a leaking toilet. Secure the toilet by tightening washers, nuts, and cap bases on top of the bolts. Then, you can add the caps.

3. Add the Tank
Now it is time to add the tank. Add the rubber gasket that sits between the tank and the bowl, onto the bowl. Add the bolts that will secure the tank to the toilet bowl.

4. Attach to the Toilet Bowl
Put the tank on top of the toilet bowl and secure it by tightening the nuts to the bolts.

5. Bring on the Water
Connect the water supply to the tank and turn it on. Let the tank fill and ensure that there are no leaks. Flush the toilet to make sure there are no leaks at the base.

6. Put on the Top and Seat
Use a screwdriver to put on the seat and place the top on the tank.
You can replace a leaking toilet in a few steps. Some of the steps include adding new bolts to the flange, fixing the wax ring to the toilet, attaching the tank to the bowl, and connecting the water supply.

The Importance of Insuring Your Business

5/10/2020 (Permalink)

It's important to have business insurance to prepare for serious incidents

The Importance of Insuring Your Business

As a business owner in Edmond, OK, you know the importance of keeping your establishment safe. Each year, water damage ranks as one of the top claim types for businesses of all sizes. Part of making sure your property, business, and people are safeguarded in the event of a disaster is having appropriate business insurance. Check with your agent if you have questions about your coverage.

1. Reduce Your Risk
Damage can originate from several water sources, such as broken pipes, sewer backups, severe storms, and more. Though you can't stop natural disasters, you can take steps to manage the severity in some instances. Routinely inspect your property and perform maintenance as required. Take measures to protect your assets by insulating exposed pipes, maintaining building temperatures of 55 degrees, and sealing cracks in your building’s exterior and foundation. Be sure to keep gutters, downspouts, and drainage areas clear of debris to prevent backups. Emergencies don't adhere to schedules, so make sure you're taking the time now to reduce your risk later.
2. Plan for Recovery
In the event of a disaster, it's important to have a plan to handle the situation safely. Every business is somewhat prone to water damage, whether it's from broken pipes or inclement weather. Contact your insurance provider to be sure you have the appropriate level of endorsements (also called riders) on your policy to cover the costs associated with water cleanup and repairs. You may also want to discuss what happens in the event of structural damage, mold growth, or ruined inventory. After an emergency, be quick to contact restoration experts who can efficiently mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project.
Keeping your business safe during an emergency is crucial. You can take steps to prevent some water damage from happening, but it's also important to have adequate business insurance to prepare for the risk of serious incidents outside of your control.

How To Clean and Maintain Your Ceiling Tiles

5/10/2020 (Permalink)

Your ceiling should be regularly inspected

Tips for Keeping Your Tiles Clean

When maintaining your property, you likely focus on the walls and floors. Yet you cannot forget about your ceiling. If you do not take proper precautions, tile mold could develop. Below are some tips for keeping your tiles clean.

Inspection
Your ceiling should be regularly inspected along with the rest of your property. Check for any tile discoloration. There are several factors that can cause this issue, including:

• Ultraviolet lighting
  
• Aging
  
• Water leaks
  
  

Water damage is perhaps the most dangerous of the three, as it could encourage the growth of mold in the ceiling. If you suspect that water is causing the discoloration, you need to look for the source of the liquid immediately.

Maintenance
Even if you do not notice any problems with your tires, you should still keep them maintained. Have your facility manager wipe them regularly with a damp cloth and cleaner. This will remove mold along with bacteria and germs.
The appearance of the tiles is important, as well. Touch-up any small scratches, and remove any adhesives that could damage the finish of the tiles.

Replacement
If you do suspect that tile mold is growing in your ceiling, cleanup and restoration specialists in Edmond, OK, can address the issue. To preserve the rest of your building, the tiles may have to be removed and replaced.
When you order the new tiles, consider purchasing some extra ones, just in case. To ensure the ceiling pattern stays consistent, the tiles should be facing the same direction that the old ones did.
After the new tiles are installed, you may notice that they are much brighter and whiter than the tiles next to them. To solve this problem, you could replace the adjacent tiles, as well.
Tile discoloration could be evidence of water damage in your ceiling. You should thus check the area regularly for wetness or other signs of tile mold. Addressing the issue immediately will limit further mold growth in the facility.

3 Reasons Not to Wait For Your Insurance Adjuster

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Secondary damage after storm in Oklahoma City, OK

3 Reasons Not to Wait For Your Insurance Adjuster

After a flood in Oklahoma City, OK, one of the first things you should do if your home is damaged is to file a flood insurance claim. This can sometimes be a lengthy process that involves several steps. One of these will involve an adjuster inspecting your home and evaluating the damage. While you may think you need to wait for him or her to show up to begin working on your home, this is not the case. The following are some reasons why.

1. It Could Be a Long Wait
If there has been severe weather in the area, it is likely that your house is not the only one with flood damage. Your adjuster may be busy dealing with a long list of clients. If this is the case, then it might take a while before he or she is able to visit your home.
2. Damage Can Worsen Quickly
Water and moisture can continue to damage your home as long as it remains in the building. Mold damage can occur in just 24 hours, wood can begin to warp, and metal can rust. Waiting to begin cleanup can result in the need for more costly and time-consuming repairs.
3. It Might Cost You Money
When you file a flood insurance claim, the company will expect you to take the necessary measures to prevent damage from getting worse. If you don’t do this, they may choose not to cover the costs of these repairs. To prevent your claim from being denied, you should hire a cleanup and restoration company to perform mitigation to reduce the spread of water damage.
The process of completing a flood insurance claim can be stressful, so you should do what you can to keep things running smoothly. This means taking care of a few things while you wait for your adjuster. Along with cleaning up your home, you may want to go over your policy to familiarize yourself with the terms and see what you should expect.

How Fire Sprinklers Work

4/19/2020 (Permalink)

Fire sprinkler in Edmond, OK

A fire sprinkler system can minimize structural damage and save lives. Knowing about these important devices can help you make informed decisions regarding fire-prevention for your Edmond, OK, business.

Types of Sprinklers

There are a variety of sprinkler systems currently available to business owners. They work differently and are suited for different businesses and building types. Here are five common systems:

1. Deluge
   
2. Pre-action
   
3. Foam
   
4. Wet pipe
   
5. Dry pipe
   
   

Deluge and foam sprinklers are ideal for industries that deal with flammable materials. The foam systems use foam as well as water for fire suppression, and deluge systems activate all heads at the same time, making them ideal for fires that could spread quickly over a large area. Wet pipe sprinklers keep water in the pipes at all times, so they can quickly extinguish a fire. Dry pipe systems, on the other hand, only receive water when the sprinkler heads are activated. Because they do not have water in the pipes at all times, they are ideal for cold climates where water could freeze and become stuck in the pipes. Pre-action pipes are a combination of wet and dry pipe systems, and are usually used in museums, libraries and other places with valuable materials.

How Sprinklers Work
Most fire sprinkler systems are heat-activated. When extreme heat from a fire reaches the sprinkler head, it bursts and water flows out. Usually, only one sprinkler head is activated because it suppresses the fire before the heat can reach the other heads. This minimizes both fire damage and water damage. Other systems have a different activation method that sets off all heads at one time. Ask your sprinkler technician if you have any questions about what type of system you have or how it works.
Although fire sprinkler systems minimize damage, you may still need help with the fire restoration process or fire sprinkler cleanup. An experienced restoration company can help you get your business back to normal quickly and safely.

5 Steps for Handling a Flooded Commercial Building

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Storm damage in Oklahoma City, OK

5 Steps for Handling a Flooded Commercial Building

After a storm in Oklahoma City, OK, your building may experience a flood. It’s best to know beforehand how to manage the flood cleanup, such as what to keep and what to tear out. In the aftermath of a flood:

1. Turn Off Electricity

Before stepping into any water, you must shut off power to the flooded area. An electric current will flow through water in which electronics or appliances are sitting. Simply stepping into this water could be deadly. If you can’t safely navigate to the breaker box, call an electrician to turn the electricity off at the meter.

2. Stop the Water

If rainwater is still flowing into the building, you may be able to block it with sandbags or flood bags. More measures can be taken once the rain stops or lets up significantly.

3. Extract Standing Water

As soon as it stops entering the building, you should begin removing standing water. A wet/dry vacuum is an excellent investment to have on hand for such situations. It’ll safely and quickly extract water and small debris. If a wet/dry vacuum isn’t available mops and towels will have to do.

4. Remove Water-Damaged Material

When all the standing water is removed, you’ll want to extract all waterlogged materials as soon as possible. Water damage will continue to increase as long as saturated items remain; tear out could be substantial. Water-soaked carpet and padding will have to be disposed of. Porous items such as upholstered or wooden furniture can be kept only if it can be completely dried within 48 hours. Wet drywall will also need to be removed and discarded, as it’ll quickly start growing mold throughout the material.

5. Disinfect and Dry

Mold will begin growing within 24 hours of water exposure, so it’s important to sanitize and dry all surfaces as quickly and as thoroughly as possible. Borax is recommended as opposed to bleach for cleaning. Use fresh air, fans, heaters, and dehumidifiers to dry the area.
If your property has been affected by floodwaters, storm restoration professionals can help. From water extraction to tear out and drying, they’ll return your building to its preloss condition.

Mold Vs. Mildew

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Mold and mildew need moisture to thrive

Mold damage to your Oklahoma City, OK, home can cause serious problems. Mildew growth, on the other hand, is generally less severe. It can be tricky to tell the difference between them, but there are a few ways to distinguish the two categories of fungi.

Similarities

The words mold and mildew are often used interchangeably. This is likely due to the fact that both are fungi, and they share some similarities, including the following:

• Thrive in wet locations
  
• Spread quickly via spores
  
• Cause a musty odor
  
• Can be cleaned with fungicide
  
  

Because both mold and mildew need moisture to thrive, the same prevention techniques can be used for both fungi. Dry up water from leaks, spills, etc. as quickly as possible, and keep the humidity in your home lower than 50%. If you live in a particularly humid area, you may need to use a dehumidifier to keep the air sufficiently dry. Also, an air purification system can prevent both mildew and mold damage by capturing the spores before they have a chance to attach to a surface and colonize.

Differences

Although the two categories of fungi share a few characteristics, they have many differences. Mildew is generally lighter in color and has a fluffy, powdery or downy texture. Mold is typically darker and may appear slimy or fuzzy. Mildew grows only on surfaces, but mold can grow deeper within walls and beneath surfaces. Because of this, mold tends to be more difficult to eliminate. On the other hand, homeowners can usually remove mildew easily with a cleaner and a cloth or brush. Mold growth generally requires more intensive remediation methods and possibly professional intervention.
Whether you are dealing with mold or mildew, it is important to act quickly to minimize growth and mitigate the damage. If you are dealing with severe mold damage, an experienced restoration team can help you get your home back to normal quickly and safely.

3 Strategies Other Countries Use To Prevent Flooding

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

The Thames Barrier of London

Learn About These Flood Solutions

Flooding is a problem that impacts not just businesses in Edmond, OK, but also populated areas around the world. Engineers from these nations have created effective strategies to mitigate high water, which prevents flooding and water damage. Business owners and residents operating in US cities near water can benefit from learning about these flood solutions.

1. The Delta Works

People in the Netherlands have always lived on land that is usually below the sea level. Therefore, they have created numerous inventive solutions to stop flooding. One of these projects is the Deltawerken, or the Delta Works. It is a system composed of structures such as dams, storm surge barriers and sluice gates. Construction started in 1950 and concluded in 1997. The most impressive part of the project is the Oosterschelde, which is composed of multiple gates that can be moved.

2. The Thames Barrier

The Thames River in England runs the risk of high water during large storms or natural disasters. However, this area is also necessary for ship transportation. First constructed in 1974, the Thames Barrier uses hydraulic beams to turn the steel water gates toward each other and create a barrier that prevents flooding. Operators usually leave the barrier open to let ships go through, but close it when flood prevention is necessary.

3. The MOSE Project

While the famous water streets of Venice, Italy impress locals and tourists alike, they can also present a dangerous flooding hazard that necessitates emergency restoration services. The government has enacted the Modulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico (MOSE), or Experimental Electromechanical Module, which is composed of around 78 barriers facing the Adriatic Sea that can be activated separately or together. Construction has begun in 2003 and full implementation is not yet complete.
The threat of high water is present in several cities throughout the world. The US and other countries can learn from these experiments to develop their own anti-flooding strategies.

How Often Should You Change Smoke Alarm Batteries?

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

Replace the batteries of your smoke alarm every ten years

How often should you change the batteries in your smoke alarm? It's a common question from Oklahoma City, OK, homeowners who are concerned with protecting their families and homes from fire damage. The standard answer is twice a year. A good way to remember is to swap out the old batteries when daylight savings begins and ends.

Is It Really Necessary To Replace Batteries Twice a Year?

Although, there isn't much power drawn from day to day, the consistent, low draw of power does affect how much juice is available when an emergency occurs. Even if the alarms haven't sounded at all, you still need fresh batteries to be confident that you'll get a robust alarm in the event of a fire. Here are some tips for getting the best batteries for your smoke detector:


Check the alarm to determine the appropriate type of batteries. Many alarms take 9-volt alkaline, but some require AA. Experts recommend avoiding rechargeable or lithium batteries for alarms; both lose their charges quickly.
Invest in brand name batteries. Off-brand products aren't always as reliable as their competition. When it comes to keeping your family safe, invest in dependability.
If you aren't sure that your batteries are fresh, buy new ones. You can run a few tests to see if batteries are old: Drained batteries are bouncy when you drop them. A multimeter or voltmeter tells you how many amps or ohms are in each battery.


When it comes to keeping your family safe, it's better to invest a little extra time and money in keeping your smoke alarm running. Compared to the costs of paying fire damage cleanup and repair professionals, it's a minimal investment.

When Should You Replace the Alarm?

In addition to changing batteries, you should also keep track of how old the alarm itself is. Modern alarms are long-lasting and only need to be replaced every ten years. A good way to remember whether it's time to replace an old alarm is to write the date of manufacture on the front where you can see it. This way, you'll see the replacement date every month when you test the smoke alarm and every six months when you replace the batteries.

What To Do and Avoid After Water Damage in Your Home

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage on flooring in an Edmond, OK home

If you were to arrive home and find that water had infiltrated your home, your first reaction might be to panic. While this is certainly a dire situation, there are right ways and wrong ways to handle it. A failing appliance or broken pipe can cause a big flood in your house, but with the proper steps, you can mitigate the damage and recover.

Your First Responsibilities

Where there's water in home, you don't have time to waste. You should first make sure all family members and pets are safely out of harm's way. Next, find the source of the flood and stop it, if possible. Other important steps are:

• Turn off the electricity in your home.
  
• If it's safe to do so, remove items from and around the water to higher ground.
  
• Contact a professional disaster cleanup company.
  
• Call your insurance provider.
  
  

Don't Turn on Electronics
Electronic devices such as computers, televisions, and stereos can suffer excessive damage where there is flooding. These devices are important to you and may hold valuable information. Still, never attempt to turn them on. This could shock or electrocute you. Let the professionals handle the water removal and cleaning of these items.

Don't Go Near Black Water
Water damage from a broken pipe shouldn't be dangerous. However, if the flood comes from a sewer backup, a broken sewer line or an overflowing toilet, black water could be in your home. This contains hazardous materials such as human waste. It could be dangerous to touch and legal if swallowed. Only a professional crew in Edmond, OK, should handle this cleanup effort.

Don't Forget to Gather Information
To file an insurance claim, your agent will want to know as much about the incident as possible. Take photos of the damage. Record what items were damaged and those that you couldn't save.
Follow these guidelines carefully. Knowing what to do and what not to do can save you a lot of headaches after a broken pipe or other problems floods your home.

Effective Ways to Dry Out Documents

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

It's common to find wet documents in the aftermath of water issues

A lot can go wrong if there's a flood in your office. Safety should be your No. 1 concern. Once you account for everyone's well-being, you'll take inventory of the damage. It's common to find wet documents in the aftermath of water issues. Many of these items may be highly sensitive and critical. Luckily, there are methods both you and the professionals can use to preserve these materials.

What You Can Do

For some flooding issues at work, you should let professional crews in Oklahoma City, OK, handle the cleanup. However, there are things you can do to protect your documents and ensure that they dry faster without ruining them.

Carefully remove any books, files, photographs, maps or other documents from water.
Set out these items in a dry place.
For damp documents, flatten them out between two absorbent pieces of paper or cloth.

Calling In the Pros

Flood restoration crews have experience with document drying, in addition to removing water surfaces. It's a good idea to get help from skilled technicians when your documents have been submerged in water. Widespread damage is also a good reason to enlist the services of professional teams.

The Method

To spare your wet documents, technicians will use freeze-drying methods. To do this, a technician will freeze the materials. The next step is to evaporate the frozen water without allowing it to return to its liquid state. With freeze-drying, you can keep dried-out paper from wrinkling and crinkling.

Sanitizing

When lying in water, your documents could come into contact with dirt, debris, and other harmful material. The technicians will disinfect the paper to ensure that it is clean and doesn't pose any danger to you and other users of the documents.
Regardless of the type of wet documents you need to dry and restore, there are ways to save these important items. Follow these guidelines so you don't have to worry about losing your papers.

6 Common Causes of Toilet Leaks

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Just as the bowl can crack, so can the porcelain of the tank

Causes of a Leaking Toilet

A toilet isn’t a complicated piece of machinery. However, if you hear strange noises or notice water on the floor, you might find that it takes some trial and error to find the source of the leak. The problem could require a toilet repair or simply an adjustment. The first step is finding the cause of the leaking toilet. Here are a few:

1. Pipes

Water impurities can cause metal pipes to corrode and rust. Rusted pipes can eventually crack causing leaks around the toilet.

2. Bowl

Toilet bowls seem pretty durable, but an old toilet can develop cracks. A hairline crack may not be very noticeable unless you’re looking for it, but it can also leak. However, it’s important to act on it quickly because the crack can only get bigger.

3. Tank

Just as the bowl can crack, so can the porcelain of the tank. Most likely, if either develops a crack the whole toilet will need to be replaced.

4. Flapper

One of the most common causes of a leaking toilet is the flapper. The flapper is the rubber seal that opens the flush valve when the toilet handle is pressed. The flapper is responsible for keeping the water in the tank. Over time, the flapper can get worn due to mineral deposits from the water and toilet cleaners, causing it to warp. This will cause a continual leak into the bowl.

5. Flush Valve

When the toilet is flushed, the flush valve regulates the flow of the tank water into the bowl. When this assembly is faulty, it can cause an internal leak. In this case, the toilet might continuously run or you might hear dripping noises.

6. Fill Valve

The fill valve controls the flow of the water that refills the toilet tank after the flush. The fill valve can accumulate mineral deposits over time. These deposits can prevent the valve from completely shutting off.
It’s best to deal with a water leak as soon as you notice it. If your Edmond, OK, home sustains water damage from a leaking toilet, call SERVPRO Franchise Professionals for cleanup and restoration.

3 Tips for Dealing with Mold on Commercial Property

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage on baseboard wall in Oklahoma City, OK

3 Tips for Dealing with Mold on Commercial Property

When you’re worried about finding mold on your Oklahoma City, OK, business property there are a few things you might consider doing to remedy the problem, even if black mold is present. Here are a few things you may want to know.

1. Call a Professional

One of the first things to remember when dealing with mold is that it’s recommended that you contact a local mold remediation professional to help with cleanup and repairs. These professionals will know how to properly section off the affected area to prevent further spreading, as well as how to locate and remove the spores. They can also help sanitize and clean the area, and make any necessary repairs.

2. Make Repairs Quickly

When dealing with a problem such as black mold it’s important to act quickly. Doing so can help prevent further spreading of the spores. If there is a moisture problem in the area it will be important to take care of that, as well to help prevent a recurrence of the mold. Staying on top of maintenance needs can help you spot problems while they are still small scale.

3. Mitigate Future Damage

Another aspect of mold cleanup is taking steps to mitigate future damage. This can mean locating the source of moisture the mold was living on, and repairing the problem. You may need to fix a leak, or take steps to mitigate flooding such as sloping landscaping so water flows downhill from the property. You may also want to check areas around the roof and windows for possible moisture pockets, and trim trees away from the building so that branches can’t fall into the property during a storm creating a place where rain could get in.
When removing a mold such as black mold from your company property it’s important to remember to call a professional. It’s also important to make repairs to water damaged areas quickly, and to take steps to mitigate future problems.

How Professionals Can Clean Up Your Office Contents After a Flood

12/29/2019 (Permalink)

Computer damaged by water

How Professionals Can Clean Up Your Office Contents After a Flood

Content cleaning specialists can assist companies that sustain storm damage. Some porous items in the office may have to be thrown away during this flood cleanup process. This is especially true if they have been affected by potentially toxic black water.
Still, emergency restoration experts may be able to save assets made of non-porous materials. Read on for more.

Cleaning Electronics

Your office building likely contains many important electronic devices. A storm cleanup company can help dry and restore these items, including:

• Computers
  
• Tablets
  
• Televisions
  
• Telephones
  
  

You and your employees should avoid turning on or using any of these devices until they are fully dry. Instead, let the professionals handle the items. They will wash off the electronics to limit additional corrosion. They will then let a qualified technician further inspect and clean the items.

Cleaning Documents

While much of society is digitized today, you probably have some important paperwork in your commercial building. These may include photographs, magazines, files, blueprints or contracts.

Content cleaning experts can use gamma irradiation or similar processes to disinfect these documents. They can then utilize a variety of techniques to remove the water, including freezer drying, air drying, vacuum freezing, vacuum thermal drying and dehumidification.

Cleaning General Office Contents

Other items in your office can be saved from flood damage, as well. Professionals will use different strategies depending on the materials involved. Those with lighter stains may just require dry cleaning. Belongings with heavier residue can be restored using a wet cleaning process.
Items that cannot withstand traditional cleaning methods may be sanitized using a spray-and-wipe technique. Meanwhile, foam cleaning works particularly well for furniture made of upholstery fabrics.
Experts may also dip damaged items into a bath made of cleaning solution, a process known as immersion cleaning. They may additionally utilize abrasive cleaning, which involves agitating dirty surfaces.
Severe flooding does not have to destroy your Edmond, OK, business. With the help of content cleaning specialists, you may be able to restore many of your assets.

Tips for Dealing With the Aftermath of a Business Fire

12/29/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Oklahoma City, OK

Tips for Dealing With the Aftermath of a Business Fire

A hot fire that gains momentum can leave a building in ruins with virtually nothing left to save. In many cases, though, a fire is stopped before it leaps out of control; this often results in many items that can be saved and restored. A partial fire loss leaves the business owner with a lot of decisions about what steps to take to save money, to speed up recovery and to cleanup the mess. Contacting a professional fire remediation franchise in Oklahoma City, OK, is a good first step.

An Inspection Is Critical

A thorough inspection by experienced technicians is the quickest way to know where you stand and to gauge the level of fire loss. The inspection should cover the following areas of your business:

• The structural integrity of your roof
  
• The extent of smoke damage in the building
  
• The condition of the walls and flooring
  
• The state of electrical and computer systems
  
• The functionality of the heating and plumbing systems
  
  

For insurance purposes all of the damage should be documented. It's also important to file a timely claim and to understand your policy and your rights. Don't settle for work that is shoddy, that does not match the original and that does not address hidden damages such as soot, water and smoke damage. Do not be afraid to demand timely payment of your claim

A Good Cleanup Is Essential

A stellar fire restoration process will proceed quickly and restore items that can be cleaned of odors and grime. A reputable remediation team will have advanced equipment and a variety of cleaning techniques to get your building back in shape. The company will take the guess work out of what can be saved and what should be thrown away and bought new. In many cases, clothes and upholstery can be restored to excellent condition again. The fire loss might not be as extensive as originally thought.

How To File an Insurance Claim for Water Damage

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Filing an insurance claim is an important first step in the restoration process

How To File an Insurance Claim for Water Damage

Following water damage to your Oklahoma City, OK, home, you may decide to file a homeowner’s insurance claim. The following steps will guide you through the process.

Know Your Policy

Before damage ever occurs to your house, it is important to familiarize yourself with the details of your insurance policy. Know your deductibles and coverage limits. Know what types of damage are covered. Understand how your rate may change if you file a claim.

Create a Home Inventory

Also, it is important to create a home inventory before any damage occurs. This is a list of all the items in your home, their purchase date and purchase price. Include receipts for expensive items and photos or video of your possessions.

Address Water Source

Anything from a pipe burst to a leaky roof can cause your home to flood. Stop the water flow as soon as possible.

Contact Your Agent

Call your insurance professional. Explain the situation and ask any questions you have about filing an insurance claim. Your agent may give you specific instructions for what to do next. He or she will also set up a time for an adjuster to survey the damage.

Document Damage

If your agent gave you specific instructions about documenting the damage to your home, be sure to follow those guidelines. Otherwise, simply be as detailed as possible. List all the damaged items along with their purchase date and price. Take photographic or video evidence to accompany the list.

Get Quotes for Repairs

Some insurance companies will only pay for repairs made by certain companies. Others may require you to get a certain number of estimates before they will decide on an amount to pay you. Check with your agent regarding these guidelines.
Filing an insurance claim is an important first step in the restoration process. After that, you may wish to hire an experienced restoration team to help you get your home back to normal.

How to Handle Mold Damaged Belongings

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

If you have mold growing in your house, you should contact a mold remediation company as soon as possible

Mold Cleaning Tips That Can Help You Restore Your Home

Mold can be a frustrating problem to deal with. It is a common problem for homeowners and, once it has started growing, it can be difficult to remove. Not only can it affect the structure of your Edmond, OK, house, but it can grow on your belongings as well. The following are some mold cleaning tips that can help you restore your home.

1. Scrub Hard Surfaces With a Cleaner

Because it cannot reach beneath the surface, mold damage on hard and non-porous materials is relatively simple to remove. These items can usually be cleaned with water and an antibacterial cleaner. More often than not, they can be easily salvaged.

2. Use a Washing Machine or Dry Cleaning Service

For objects made with porous materials, mold cleaning takes a bit more work. Some objects, such as clothing, bedding and stuffed toys can be cleaned in a washing machine if the damage is not too severe. Dry cleaning is an option for larger belongings and materials that cannot be cleaned in the laundry.

3. Have Items Professionally Cleaned

While you may think that it is impossible to get mold damage out of your books, paintings and paper documents, this is not always the case. Professional services can use equipment, such as an Esporta machine, that can remove bacteria and contaminants from a variety of items.

4. Throw Out Severely Damaged Items

It may not be ideal, but in some cases, you will need to throw out some items. If mold forms beneath the surface of an object, mold cleaning can be difficult. Unless these belongings are difficult to replace or have a lot of sentimental value, it may be easier to simply discard it and purchase something new.
If you have mold growing in your house, you should contact a mold remediation company as soon as possible. They can locate any mold growth and perform cleanup and repairs. They can also help salvage your damaged belongings.

3 Tips for Buying the Right Number of Fire Alarms

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms – triggered by ions in high levels of smoke

Most homeowners know that a smoke detector is a critical tool in reducing the chance of injury or smoke damage from a house fire. But that’s only part of the story. To be effective, smoke detectors and fire alarms must be properly used, and that means having the right number of them for your home. Determining how many is right for your Oklahoma City, OK, home doesn’t have to be confusing. Follow these tips to secure your home against fire the right way.

Fire Detector Facts

There’s more than one type of alarm to protect your home from a blaze. The main options include:

• Heat detectors – triggered by high temperatures
  
• Smoke alarms – triggered by ions in high levels of smoke
  
  

You may choose one or the other, or even a mixture of both types. Whichever you choose, it’s key that you have enough of them.

Number of Rooms

Smoke and fire alarms can only cover so many rooms. The National Fire Protection Association suggests you make up for this by having smoke alarms in every room and outside each sleeping area throughout your home.

Home Size

Room count is only one consideration when picking the number of alarms that’s right for your home. You also need to consider your home’s total square footage. A smoke detector will typically cover about 900 square feet. Divide your home’s total square footage by this amount to get a good gauge on how many alarms you’ll need.

Number of Levels

Experts say it’s key to have a detector on every level of your home. This includes the obvious living areas, but also less used places like unfinished basements and attics. These less-trafficked areas are exactly where fires can smolder unnoticed and cause lots of damage.
Fire alarms are easy to come by and effective – if there are enough of them. Use these rules of thumb from fire damage experts and your home should be safe.

How Landscaping Can Save Your Home From Storm Damage

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

Sometimes, the best way to combat outside flooding involves installing rain gardens

How Landscaping Can Save Your Home From Storm Damage

Outside flooding can be just as damaging to your Edmond, OK  home as indoor flooding. Accumulated rainwater can infiltrate the building and create erosion that can damage your lawn. However, you can mitigate this devastating impact. You can use certain landscaping techniques that can decrease the amount of water accumulated around your house, which significantly reduces potential water damage and the need to call a water damage repair company.

Draining Driveways

Driveways are one of the most common places where rain drainage can gather and harm your home. You might need to consider rainwater when making choices for the design of your driveway.

Placement of grass near the driveway
Drainage systems on the sides
Gravel as pavement material
Spaced paving techniques

Strategic driveway design can make efficient use of excessive water, rather than allow it to flood the property.

Rain Gardens

Sometimes, the best way to combat outside flooding involves installing rain gardens. In this practice, you place plants with higher wetness resistance in the center of a depression, with other plants around the edges. This landscape feature allows the water to collect in the middle and reintegrate into the soil, thus feeding the central plants, while the edges dry off faster. Native plants are the most effective, since they require less maintenance.

Living Roofs

Another outdoor location in your home that can flood and create water damage after a rain storm is the roof. While you may have a sloped roof and a drainage system to avoid the buildup, you can take these measures further. Living roofs, also known as green roofs, have vegetation and plants that absorb much of the rainwater. These roofs also include slopes, rain spouts and drainage systems that further distribute the water.
Even though inside flooding poses a direct threat to your property, outside flooding can contribute just as much. Certain landscaping designs can help you prevent the damage caused by such occurrence.

Storm Water Cleanup Guide for a Business

10/26/2019 (Permalink)

Wet fabric removed from an Oklahoma City office

Storm Water Cleanup Guide for a Business

When you enter a business after a storm, you will immediately notice the water damage. The first step in the cleanup is to tear out everything wet. Tearing out must happen quickly so that mold doesn’t become a problem. Storm water can find its way

• Into cracks and crevasses
  
• Under and behind the molding
  
• Behind walls
  
• Into the subfloor
  
• Into the rooms below
  
  

Remove Free-Standing Water

If you don’t remove it now, it will cause more damage later. A wet/dry vac is the perfect tool for this job. Every drop that you collect will help complete the recovery that much sooner.

Remove Wet Fabrics

Fabric items include carpets and padding, window treatments, furniture and anything else that retains water. It might make sense to use your wet/dry vac to remove excess water from these items before moving them.
You may wonder if you should dispose of or restore these items. Items for disposal should go immediately in the trash. Relocate items for restoration to a place where they are out of the way of the cleanup and can’t cause any further problems.

Remove Remaining Items

Wet items should go to someplace where they won’t cause any additional problems. You can decide their disposition later. These items may include electronics, photos, important documents and non-fabric furniture.
Remove everything not damaged to a holding area. It needs to be out of the way so that cleanup can continue.

Locate the Remaining Hidden Moisture

Tear out the wet baseboards and molding. You can reuse them if they survive the drying process without warping. Do the same with the damp wallboard. The only difference is that the wallboard is not salvageable.
The tear out stage of storm restoration is labor-intensive and time-consuming. It also requires a quick completion to prevent mold growth. If your Oklahoma City, OK, business faces a storm damage crisis, it’s good to know that there are storm damage restoration specialists nearby and ready to help. They are just a phone call away.

Causes of Burst Pipes

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

Pipes with corrosion can cause a big leak in your home

With all the joys of being a homeowner in Edmond, OK, there are some downsides when it comes to nature interacting with your home's hidden plumbing. If a pipe burst happens, it can be easy to become confused and frustrated with the flooding that occurs. However, there are ways to avoid this problem.

Causes of Pipe Breaks

In addition to freezing conditions, there are three other culprits that can cause a big leak:

• Tree Roots – Trees love water, and the roots tend to find their way directly to a source. Over time, these roots can cause a weak spot to happen in the water line or loosen a connector. As the roots grow, they can eventually tighten enough to burst a pipe.
  
• Corrosion – While newer homes may not face this problem, older ones typically have older systems. Technology has come a long way, which means those homes built before 1970 may not have corrosion-resistant piping.
  
• Collapsed Pipe – Settling, construction and other events can impact a piping system. If there is increased weight, it could result in a collapse.
  

Preventive Steps

While in some cases a pipe burst may be out of your control, there are some simple things to do to prevent it from happening:

During freezing cold weather, let a faucet drip. This slight extra water flow can help reduce the chances of the line freezing.
Ensure pipes are insulated. If they are exposed, they are more likely to freeze. Additionally, even in the summer, underground pipes can get become too cold and expand, eventually bursting.
Seal any cracks or air leaks throughout your home. Keeping the cold air out of the home will help protect the plumbing inside.
Once cold weather is on its way, disconnect any outside hoses from the spigots.
Consider the air flow around your kitchen. If it seems colder under the sink, leave a cabinet door open to warm the air.
Understand where your pipes are and keep that area of the home above freezing.

If a pipe burst does happen, you don’t have to go it alone. Count on water damage restoration professionals who are Here to Help.

How Renters Insurance Can Help You After a Fire

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Your renters insurance can help you replace your belongings following a robbery

How Renters Insurance Can Help You After a Fire

You have probably heard that your renters insurance can help you replace your belongings following a robbery. Yet this insurance can also come in handy after a fire.
Fire damage cleanup typically addresses both the apartment itself and the contents inside. The landlord's insurance should cover the cost of repairing the actual building. However, your tenants insurance policy provides plenty of additional coverage.

Personal Property

Your tenants insurance policy primarily covers the loss of your personal property. This includes any damage to your belongings after a fire. Insurance can also help you pay for fire restoration services.
Of course, your furniture and electronics have depreciated in value over time. Thankfully, most renters insurance policies will give you the amount of money you need to replace your belongings rather than the actual value of those items.

Fire Liability and Medical Payments

A fire may not just affect your Oklahoma City, OK, home. The flames could cause fire damage to nearby apartments, as well. Your neighbors could also suffer burns or smoke inhalation.
If the fire started in your apartment, you may have to pay for the repairs to your neighbors' valuables. Your tenants insurance should cover these costs. Specifically, the insurance covers any property damage of third parties not named on your policy.
Your policy may also provide some coverage for your neighbor's medical bills. Typically, this medical payment coverage is minimal and applies to minor injuries such as a sprained ankle.

Loss of Use

Finally, tenants insurance can cover any expenses you incur due to the temporary loss of use of your apartment after a fire. For instance, the insurance can pay for the cost of a hotel for you and your family while the apartment is being restored.
Fire cleanup is an extensive and costly process. Renters insurance can help you replace or repair your belongings and pay for other fire-related expenses.

3 Tips for Maintaining Your Evaporative Cooler

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a leaking swamp cooler, you are leaving your home vulnerable to all sorts of potential problems

3 Ways To Prevent a Leaking A Swamp Cooler

A leaking swamp cooler can cause all sorts of problems. The water that pools around the leak may become a breeding ground for bacteria. A leak can drive up the cost of your utility bill. It can also leave your home in Edmond, OK, susceptible to a mold problem. Here are three ways you can prevent leaks and thus the issues that generally come with them.

1. Commit to a Yearly Maintenance Schedule

Like all major appliances, your evaporative cooler occasionally needs a tuneup to work properly. A yearly inspection can help identify potential issues and fix them before they cause bigger problems such as mold growth. Professional maintenance technicians can clean your swamp cooler and make sure that any parts that need to be tightened or replaced get the attention they need.

2. Empty Drip Pans When Not in Use

When you winterize your home, add your swamp cooler to the list. A drip pan with stagnant water is just as problematic as a leaking swamp cooler. It provides the excess moisture mold needs to thrive. By emptying the pans regularly and keeping them emptied completely as winter approaches, you can minimize your fungus risk.

3. Replace Water Pads as Necessary

The parts of your swamp cooler that are particularly prone to mold growth are the water pads. They often get wet as the machine works. If they also get dirty, they become a veritable smorgasbord on which mold can feast. Mold mitigation experts recommend that water pads be replaced at the beginning of the spring as you start to use your cooler more often. Inspect them frequently and replace them as they start to show signs of wear.
If you have a leaking swamp cooler, you are leaving your home vulnerable to all sorts of potential problems. With regular maintenance and attention, however, you can increase its efficiency and minimize the chances it will cause a mold issue.

3 Steps To Take After a Water Pipe Break at Your Business

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Oklahoma City, OK

Steps To Take To Protect Your Commercial Property and Contents After a Pipe Break

Dealing with water damage at your Oklahoma City, OK business can be difficult. Whether age, damage or cold weather is causing bursting pipes, taking quick action could reduce repair costs and save valuable inventory. Once a pipe break occurs, there are a few steps you can take to protect your commercial property and its contents.

Shut Off the Main Water Supply

Once you realize a pipe in your building has burst, it is wise to locate and turn off the main water supply valve. This can reduce the amount of flooding that can otherwise occur. You may want to be aware of the location of the shutoff switch beforehand so you can stem the flow of water as quickly as possible. If you rent your commercial space, ask your landlord about the location of the main water supply valve and alert any managers to its location in case a bursting pipes emergency takes place when you are not present.

Seal Off Affected Areas

You can reduce water damage to adjacent areas by shutting or sealing off doors. For example, if a pipe burst in a restroom, you can seal the bottom of the door with towels to prevent water leakage. Ask your employees and customers to clear the area so you can be assured flooded rooms remain secure until professionals can examine and fix broken pipe components.

Call in a Water Damage Remediation Service

A burst pipe can cause a great deal of trouble in a matter of minutes; however, other issues, such as mold growth and warped building materials, can be prevented by calling a flood control and remediation service to inspect and repair your property. Water damage in Oklahoma City, OK can be common during cold weather snaps, so it is a good idea to have a working relationship with this type of service if you own a business.
One or more bursting pipes at your Oklahoma City, OK business can have serious consequences to your equipment or inventory. Knowing which immediate steps to take afterward can help you minimize damage and the cost of future repairs.

Will Solar Panels Keep the Lights On During Bad Weather?

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Extreme weather and storms could result in panel damage.

The durability of a solar panel is not easily compromised. It is not constructed with moving parts and it is manufactured with high quality materials. Panels are put through rigorous tests and quality control to ensure their strength and longevity. If panel damage does occur, it is typically due to weather; therefore, if you live in Oklahoma City, OK and have solar panels, it is important to understand how nature can potentially leave you in the dark.

What Can Cut the Power

Extreme weather and storms could result in panel damage. Possible weather factors that cause damage include the following:

• Hail
• High wind
• Rain
• Tornadoes

Panels are essentially outward facing glass. Exposure to high winds and tornadoes can pummel your roof with branches and other debris that can crack or even break a panel completely. Cracked and broken panels expose your roof to excessive amounts of water, which can lead to costly roof damage. Continued exposure to strong storms with excessive rain and hail can create further complications if your roof has already sustained damage or become the starting point for expensive amounts of structural harm.

How To Keep the Lights On

An initial investment in high quality panels, as well as installation by experienced professionals, can be the first line of defense against damage due to wind and water. Panels that are cracked, damaged or routinely subjected to large amounts of wear can be evaluated by a professional to see how to repair and prevent roof damage. Potential damage or obstruction to panels is likely if they are consistently exposed to wind and water, as well as severe weather. If you know that Oklahoma City, OK is an area that experiences weather conditions that may put your energy efficient investment at risk, it is essential to speak with an expert in storm damage restoration.

Solar panels can be a smart choice for both your home and the environment, but they're not invincible. Panel damage happens. That's why regular maintenance is essential to keeping them in working order — and keeping your lights on.

How To Prevent Water Damage From a Leaking Water Heater

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

When you discover a leaking water heater, acting fast and stopping the leak will help reduce any harm to your home.

If left unnoticed, a leaking water heater can flood your home in Oklahoma City, OK, and damage the surrounding areas. While an especially large leak that has damaged your walls and floors should be handled by a water damage restoration specialist, there are several steps you can take to try and stop the leaking and remove small amounts of water from your home before it becomes a much larger issue.

Common Causes of a Failed Water Heater

Depending on the source of the leak, a broken water heater may just require a quick repair or need to be replaced. If you’re not comfortable trying to repair the tank yourself, you should get the help of a professional plumber. When inspecting the water heater, you’ll find the leak may be at either the bottom or the top of the tank. Here are several common causes of a leaking water heater:

• Leaking drain valve
• Leaking pressure relief valve
• Leaking tank
• Excessive condensation
• Loose cold- and hot-water inlet and outlet connections
• Loose joint or stripped threaded nipple

Water Mitigation Procedures

If you’re sure you have a broken water heater on your hands, you will need to start by turning off the power supply, which can be powered by either electricity or gas and shutting off the water supply. You can shut off the water with either the water heater valve or your home’s main water valve. Once you get the leaking to cease, try to dry the surrounding area as best as possible and move any furniture or personal belongings from the area. If you notice excessive damage, a water damage restoration specialist will help address any damage that has occurred by using special equipment to extract water from your home and completely dry walls, floors, and furniture.

When you discover a leaking water heater, acting fast and stopping the leak will help reduce any harm to your home. Remember to seek professional help for fixing your water heater and addressing any water damage that has occurred.

Dealing With Water Damage in the Home

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage in Oklahoma City

Water damage to your Oklahoma City, OK, home is a frightening prospect. However, knowing a little about the different types of water and the cleanup process can make the situation less stressful.

Water Categories

There are three classifications of water. These classifications are determined by the amount and type of contamination present.

1. Clean water is uncontaminated. This water is usually from pipes, rainwater or snow melt. Generally, this water is not harmful.
   
2. Gray water is slightly contaminated, usually with soap or other chemicals. This type of water comes from appliance drains, aquariums, etc. This category may be harmful, so use caution when cleaning up.
   
3. Black water is highly contaminated and poses health risks. Flood water and sewage are in this category. Be very careful with this type of water.
   
   

It is important to note that water begins in one category but will become contaminated with time. Within two days, clean water becomes gray water and gray water becomes black water. It is crucial to act quickly when dealing with standing water.

Cleanup Process

When dealing with a flood, the cleanup process varies depending on the cause of the water damage and the contamination level. However, the process usually follows a similar pattern. The first step is removing the standing water. Wet/dry vacuums and pumps come in handy here. After extracting as much of the water as possible, it is important to dry out any remaining moisture. Heavy-duty dehumidifiers, fans and open windows can all speed up this process. While the area is drying out, examine the objects and surfaces that were affected by the water. Some material, such as carpet and insulation, may not be salvageable. Things that cannot be effectively dried and cleaned should be discarded to prevent mold spreading to surrounding items. After the area is fully dried, you should sanitize the surfaces the water came into contact with using commercial cleaners or a bleach mixture.
Regardless of the type of water damage you experience, a professional restoration company can return your home to pre-flood condition quickly and safely.

5 Habits of Great Landlords

9/1/2019 (Permalink)

If you own a rental property in Oklahoma City, OK, you have certain basic responsibilities to your tenants. You must keep the building safe and make sure all maintenance requests such as plumbing problems are fixed. Being a great landlord, however, means going above and beyond the minimum standard requirements. Here are five things that exceptional landlords do.

1. Make Expectations Clear
The rental agreement that your tenants sign should outline their responsibilities while they live in your building. It should also tell them what they can expect of you. It's important that each party knows what is expected of them before keys are exchanged.

2. Train Your Staff Well
Your customer service reputation is only as good as your least effective employee. Make sure your staff knows how to handle tenant complaints about commercial plumbing and answer frequently asked questions about the property.

 
3. Lead by Example
Your staff is likely to follow your lead. If you are hard to reach or if you let reported plumbing problems go unresolved, that is how they are going to think the business should be run. Motivate them by showing them what doing a great job looks like.

4. Respond Quickly to Problems
One of the best landlord tips is to make sure you respond to maintenance issues in a timely manner. It's helpful to have licensed local plumbers on speed dial for issues that a plunger can't fix. 

5. Communicate Effectively
Above all, communicate quickly and often with your tenants. Don't settle for giving them the minimum notice required by the law. If the building needs repairs, let them know as soon as you know. Show them that you respect them, and they are likely to respect you in return.

Whether you are dealing with a plumbing issue or a neighbor dispute, being present and active at your rental property is essential to good customer service. Following these tips can help you be a great landlord.

3 Tips for Dealing With Water Damage

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Provide ventilation in bathroom

Tips To Prevent Moisture Gathering In Your Home

When people imagine water damage, they tend to think of flooding after storms or damage related to putting out a house fire. However, everyday tasks can be causing damage to your home in Edmond, OK. Check out these tips for preventing too much moisture from gathering in your home to ensure your belongings are safe and dry.

1. Control the Dampness in Your House

One of the biggest causes of water damage in walls or floorboards is dampness that creates mold or mildew in these spaces. This often occurs because of too much humidity in a space, so it is important to create plenty of ventilation anywhere that could trap moisture droplets and allow them to soak into the home. Prevent leaks and provide excellent ventilation in spaces such as:

• Crawlspaces
  
• Basements
  
• Attics
  
• Bathrooms
  
• Kitchens
  
  

2. Fix Pipes Immediately

Broken pipes can be a major cause of damage, so it is important to have a professional look at any potential leaks as soon as possible. Of course, not all leaks are immediately noticeable. For this reason, regular inspections are also important. This way, you'll find potential problems inside walls, floors, or ceilings before they become a more serious issue.

3. Clean Up the Right Way

If despite your best efforts, your home receives damage due to moisture or high water, it is important to hire a water remediation company for water cleanup right away. Professionals have the proper knowledge, tools, and experience to dry your home out thoroughly and ensure no further damage is done. Avoid doing the work on your own, as improper drying and cleaning could cause mildew or mold that further damages your home and belongings.

Water damage can have serious consequences and be extremely costly if not handles correctly and immediately. Fortunately, knowing how to handle moisture in the walls or high water, as well as when it is preferable to call a professional, helps to ensure your home stays safe, clean, and dry.

Avoid Flooding Damage While You're on Vacation

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

A single broken pipe can pump several of inches of water into your home in a relatively small amount of time.

Water damages are the second most common claim on homeowners' insurance policies in Oklahoma City, OK, and around the country, and the number of cases is rising, according to industry experts. For many homeowners, the problems involve a broken pipe or frozen spigots during the winter. However, unsuspecting homeowners may also be hit by flooding and the need for water pipe repair while they are vacationing during warmer months.

Protect Your Home During Extended Vacations

If you're planning to leave home for more than a couple of days, take the following steps to avoid coming home to a flooded basement.

• Visually inspect pipes, the water heater and other appliances, and the external structure of your home. If there are any signs of aging or wear and tear, complete repairs or replacements before you leave.
• Inspect all hoses that attach to major appliances, such as the dishwasher. Replace any old hoses and those that show evidence of cracks and other damage.
• Add insulation to any exposed pipes if you're planning to be during cold weather. Don't turn the thermostat down too far to avoid frozen pipes and hoses.
• Check-in with your insurance agent. Some companies provide tips for keeping your home safe while you're away.
• Ask a friend or neighbor to check on your home while you're gone. Show this friend where the water main and primary shut-off valve is located so the water can be shut off if water pipe repair becomes necessary.
• If you don't have anyone to keep an eye on your home, turn all of the water off. Make sure the pipes have been drained. If you plan to be gone during cold weather, flush the toilets and leave cabinet doors open to avoid frozen water damages.

Plan Ahead To Avoid Trouble

A single broken pipe can pump several of inches of water into your home in a relatively small amount of time. When you're planning to travel away from home, these steps can help you avoid serious damages. If water pipe repair does become necessary, water damage and remediation professionals can handle some of the details until you return home.

How to Remove Odor After a Flood

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

If you’ve suffered water damage after sewage loss or a flood in Oklahoma City, OK, you may have noticed that your home has a lingering odor even after you’ve cleaned it. When this occurs, it might be secondary damage caused by the water. Mold grows quickly in moist environments, so it is possible that this is what is creating the odor in your house. Here are a few things you can try to remove it.

1. Wash Affected Items
Soft and porous materials, such as stuffed toys, mattresses and clothing absorb water easily, along with the contaminants that it contains. If there were mold spores in the water, these items may now be the home of mold growth. If there are affected items that you have not washed, you should do this immediately. Some belongings, such as furniture, that cannot be so easily cleaned might need to be replaced instead.

2. Clean the Walls and Floors
While they may not hold water as easily as softer materials, hard surfaces are not entirely safe from mold growth. If these areas remained wet for an extended period of time, a mold colony may have formed. Scrub down any walls, floors and surfaces that were affected by the flood.

3. Hire a Professional
If you have done everything that you can and are still unable to remove the unpleasant smell from your home, then it may be time to hire a clean up and restoration service. Not only can they locate mold growth in areas that you might have missed, but they also have the tools and experience to remove it. They can also use professional equipment to eliminate any odors in the building.

Floodwater is highly contaminated and can carry sewage, bacteria and other contaminants like mold. If your home has been cleaned but you are still experiencing the bad smell, hiring a professional may be the best choice for you.

Mold Growth in HVAC Ductwork

7/24/2019 (Permalink)

Mold growth in HVAC Ductwork

Unfortunately, you may have mold growth in your Oklahoma City, OK, business without even realizing it. Because the inside of ductwork is not readily visible, black mold growing in air ducts frequently goes unnoticed.

Identifying Mold Growth

Even if you do not see the mold inside the ducts, there will usually be other signs that you have a problem. These include:

• A musty smell, especially when running the air conditioning
  
• Black dust on vents
  
• Health issues, such as coughing, headaches and nausea, that are not explained by seasonal allergies or other health conditions
  
  

Treating Mold Growth

When mold is growing in air ducts, it can be especially tricky to remediate. You may wish to contact mold remediation experts to help you get the problem under control. Although every situation varies, the general process for treating mold follows a similar pattern: identify the type and extent of mold damage, take apart and clean ducts and replace surrounding insulation if necessary. In every case, it is important to identify the cause of mold growth and address it so that the mold does not come back.

Preventing Mold Growth

Black mold, like many other molds, needs moisture and organic material to thrive. Unfortunately, air ducts provide both water and dust to nourish the mold and air flow to circulate the spores. This makes it easy for mold to grow quickly. Having ductwork regularly cleaned and maintained cuts down on the amount of dust and water available to sustain a mold colony. Routinely changing the filter in your HVAC unit is generally a simple procedure and goes a long way toward reducing dust accumulation and lowering the chances of a mold infestation. Your HVAC technician can show you how to change the filter and advise you of how frequently to do so.
Black mold in the ductwork of your Oklahoma City, OK, business is an unsettling thought. However, routine maintenance can mitigate any mold growth you may have and hopefully prevent the growth altogether.

How To Prevent Space Heater Fires in Your Home

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

Space heater fires can happen

How To Prevent Space Heater Fires in Your Home

Space heaters can keep you warm during those long winter months. A burned space heater, however, can cause severe fire damage to your Edmond, OK, home that may require extensive smoke cleanup.
Space heater fires most commonly occur when the heater is left next to a flammable substance. You should thus avoid placing your space heater next to:

• Upholstered furniture
  
• Curtains
  
• Bedding
  
• Gas cans
  
• Matches
  
• Paint
  
  

There are several other steps you can take to avoid a space heater fire in your home. You can check for certain safety features before purchasing a heater. Once you do choose a heater, you should also make sure it is used properly.

Safety Features

When you are considering a space heater for your house, make sure you choose one with a strong cord. The cord should also be long enough so that it doesn’t require the use of a power strip or extension cord. An extension cord or power strip can lead to a burned space heater.
You should additionally look for a space heater with an automatic shut-off feature. This causes the heater to turn itself off when it tips over or gets too hot.

Proper Use

After you take your space heater home, make sure to place it on a level, non-flammable and hard surface. The floor is an ideal spot. You should similarly put it at least three feet away from flammable items. Keep your children and pets a safe distance away from the heater, as well.
Make sure to clean the space heater’s filter regularly. When you aren’t using the heater, turn it off and unplug it from the wall. You should also regularly check the cord and replace it if it appears worn or frayed.

Even if you follow the above advice, space heater fires can happen. If a burned space heater damages your home, you need to hire fire cleanup professionals. Fire damage cleanup experts can eliminate the smell and even remove soot from your carpets.

Should You Add Storm Shutters To Your Home?

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

Storm shutters, give them a try!

Storm Shutter Category

High winds effect homes almost all over the nation, in one form or another. To protect your home in Edmond, OK, and to help lower your insurance premium, you should consider reinforcing one of the most vulnerable parts of your structure- the windows! No matter what your needs, there is a category of shutter for you.

Economy

If you want to install something quickly while you shop for more high quality shutters, or if you have already experienced storm damage, there are some cheaper and more temporary options available. If your wallet is tight or you are located in a place where hurricanes are infrequent, you may also be looking for something along these lines. There are a few options to choose from:

• Panel shutters, $7-15 each
  
• Fabric storm panels, $75 per window
  
• 5/8 inch thick plywood, $1 per square foot
  
  

Efficiency

High winds don't stand a chance against high strength rolling shutters. This type uses a cranking mechanism to roll shutters down from a box housed at the top of your window along two tracks. They are attractive and sleek, made of polycarbonate or high quality metal. These shutters offer additional functionality in the form of insulation and privacy. This option usually costs between $20-30 per square foot of window area.

Style

You may have heard of Bahama storm shutters, iconic to island style houses. These shutters hinge at the top of your window and can be lowered down into place. Having originated in the Bahamas, it comes as no surprise that they are also meant to provide shade and keep your house cool. They come in standard window sizes, usually costing between $200-$1000 each. Not to mention they can add a fun pop of color to your exterior.
In a storm with high winds, such as a hurricane, protecting your windows should be given a high priority. Depending on where you live and what type of windows you have, your shutter solution can vary. Give them a try!

How To Respond to Burns in the Workplace

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

Apply a sterile gauze bandage

A fire safety plan is an essential for business owners, and part of that plan must include how to response when fire damage directly affects a staff member or a customer. Are you prepared to treat burns and administer first aid? Take a look at important steps for preventing injuries and an overview of the appropriate treatment steps.

Prevent Burns

The best scenario is to avoid using the burn first kit altogether. Use the following tips to decrease the possibility of fire in your workplace. Prevention starts by recognizing the three most common workplace burns:

• Thermal (heat)
  
• Chemical
  
• Electrical
  
  

Preventing burns starts with compliance with OSHA standards and MSDS safety protocols. The next step is to train employees according to your company safety plan. Finally, consistently maintain building safety systems and reinforce safe behaviors in your employees.

Contact Emergency Services

When fire damage affects the building, one of your first steps should be to contact emergency personnel and fire remediation and reconstruction experts. The same is true when an employee or customer is injured; immediately contact emergency medical professionals. With paramedics or EMTs on the way, it's time to implement some basic burn first aid.

Treat Minor Burns

Minor burns can usually be treated simply and without medical help:

1. Cool the burned area.
   
2. Remove jewelry and other tight items before swelling sets in.
   
3. Leave blisters alone.
   
4. Treat the area with a moisturizing lotion or aloe vera.
   
5. Apply a sterile gauze bandage.
   
   

Treat Major Burns

Major burns require more attention. While waiting for the medical technicians to arrive, take the following steps:

Move the burned individual away from further harm.
Check for breathing. If the person isn't breathing, begin rescue breathing as appropriate.
Remove jewelry, belts, and other tight items before the person begins swelling.
Cool the burned area with a moist cloth or bandage.
Elevate the affected body parts above heart level.
Don't submerge large burns in water.

Hopefully, your Oklahoma City, OK, business won't be affected by fire. However, it's best to take steps to reduce the possibility of fire damage and prepare for the worst with appropriate first aid training.

How To Handle Commercial Water Damage

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

If your commercial property suffers of water damage, call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City for a quick response to your emergency.

Some of the most common causes in Oklahoma City, OK, of water damage in a business are a broken pipe or a sewage drain blockage, and the results can be devastating. Fortunately, there are ways to get back to normal after a pipe burst cleanup.

The First Step in Restoring Your Business

After you have gotten the source of flooding fixed, it is time to call a restoration company to get your life back to normal. Before the professionals arrive, there are a few tips you can use to ensure a minimal amount of damage.

? Make sure to gather any loose items off wet floors and air dry in a safe, ventilated area.
? Hang any damp or wet items in an area away from the flood.
? Raise furniture off wet flooring with wood blocks or aluminum foil.
? Mop any excess or standing water on floors inside the business.
? Do not turn on any electrical appliances inside the flooded area.

Once You Have Contacted Restoration Services

Before phoning professionals, you should do a quick walk-through so you know what to report to the restoration services company. How many rooms were affected, and how extensive is the damage? With this information in hand, contact a sewer cleanup company or water damage repair services. The professionals from the company you have hired to assess your business in Oklahoma City, OK, for a pipe burst cleanup can check how much damage they can clean up and how long it will take to restore any problem areas.

After the Assessment

Restoration professionals may immediately begin the cleanup process after they have assessed your business. Powerful pumps, vacuums, and dehumidifiers can remove most of the evidence of water in your business. Wall panels and flooring may need to be replaced during this process.

Once the restoration is finished, you should be able to get back to business. You will know that you did all you could to protect your livelihood. With a few hours of quick thinking and the help of a professional restoration service, a pipe burst cleanup will be a thing of the past.

Treating Burn Injuries in the Workplace

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

If a first-aid kit is available, use burn dressings or slightly moist sterile gauze pads to cover the burned area..

Fire damage can result in large losses to your business' material assets in Oklahoma City, OK. 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 Oklahoma City, OK, 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.

3 Things Not To Do After a Flood

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Many homeowners who experience flooding for the first time are unprepared.Contact SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City for your restoration process.

It’s one of many homeowner’s worst nightmares: a large storm or local disaster has flooded your neighborhood in Oklahoma City, OK. Many who experience flooding for the first time are unprepared and uninformed, not knowing what to do after floodwater has covered the streets or entered their home. To help you prepare, whether you’re facing a flooded home now or foresee its possibility in the future, here are three things not to do after a flood:

1. Remain in your home. For you and your family’s safety, if water has entered your home, it’s important to leave and not reenter until the flooding has subsided. In a flood’s immediate aftermath, the risk of rising water is still imminent due to the possibility of more rain, a compromised levy or busted dam. Find refuge outside the flood area, whether it be in a hotel, a loved one's home or a public shelter.

2. Touch the water. Flood water can be contaminated with any number of bacteria, sewage and/or chemicals that can be harmful to your skin and health. It’s also imperative to avoid standing water to minimize the risk of electric shock from electrical lines and equipment touching the water. If you must enter or be around the water for any reason, protective clothing such as rubber boots should be worn.

3. Fix it yourself. Repairing flood damage in a home can require a large number of construction materials, professional knowledge and skill to ensure the damage is fully repaired and any mold is removed. Instead of trying to take on the job yourself, it’s best to save time and additional headaches by contacting a water damage repair and restoration company.

For any homeowner, flood water is certainly an unwelcome sight. Knowing what to do, or not do, in this type of disaster is imperative to keep you and your family safe and to begin the restoration process successfully.

Keeping Your Restrooms Clog Free

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

One clogged toilet in your building in Oklahoma City, OK, can cause water damage

Four Tips for Keeping Your Restroom Free of Clogs

Restroom maintenance is very important. One clogged toilet in your building in Oklahoma City, OK, can cause water damage not only in the restroom where it's installed but also in the floors below it. Follow these four tips for keeping your restrooms free of clogs and the potential damage that comes with them.

Post Signs

You may not think that people will read signs in the restroom, but posting expectations can actually help make them more mindful of their behavior. Remind those who use the facilities in your building of a few key community standards, such as:

• Don't overfill the toilet.
  
• Don't flush anything but toilet paper.
  
• Report any problems immediately.
  
  

Supply Thin Paper

Thinner toilet paper is a smarter choice for restrooms in commercial buildings. Not only does it tend to be less expensive but also can be instrumental in preventing toilet overflow. Even if someone uses a large wad of one-ply toilet paper, it is less likely to cause problems than thicker sheets.

Provide Trashcans

Many items that shouldn't be flushed can result in a clogged toilet when there isn't an adequate number of trash receptacles in the restroom. No one wants to carry their trash with them or leave it on the floor, so they dispose of it the only way they have left, which is down the toilet. Make sure you have a trashcan in every stall as well as one or two large trashcans near the sinks.

Check Regularly

Despite all your best efforts, sewage problems may still occur. Have your restrooms checked frequently throughout the day to make sure there is enough toilet paper and paper towels and to confirm that no mishaps have occurred. If there is a toilet overflow or a leak, call water mitigation specialists immediately to clean up the damage.

No one wants to walk into a restroom and see or smell the mess a clogged toilet leaves behind. Taking simple preventative measures can help everyone do their part to avoid the problem.

Teaming Up: How Disaster Response Companies and Insurance Agents Work in Tandem

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City right away so you’ll get the best disaster response and the fastest response from your insurance agent.

No one in Oklahoma City, OK, wants to think about dealing with flooding at home following a major storm. These disasters can cause widespread damage and may even destroy parts of your home, if not your entire house altogether. Two groups of professionals will play a vital role in easing you through the recovery process: a professional storm restoration company and your insurance provider. When these two entities work together, you can get through an otherwise awful situation.

The Aftermath

Once you discover a flood or water damage in your home after a big storm, you need to act quickly. Delays can only make the problem worse and damage more costly. Here’s what you should after a flood:

• Safely exit your home; only take items with you that you can easily and safely carry.
• Contact a reputable, experienced storm response company to assess the damage and provide cleanup services.
• Get in touch with your insurance company to report the incident and file a claim.

What the Professionals Will Do First

A storm restoration team from SERVPRO will start off by inspecting the flooded area and making note of the damage the water caused. A technician will record what items and areas of the home suffered and will then come up with a plan of how to clean up and repair the damage. SERVPRO will communicate with your insurance agent, and the two companies will get on the same page so you’ll get proper coverage.

What Are the Advantages?

Time is of the essence when it comes to repairing flood damage. It’s also vital that your insurance company initiates the claims process so you don’t have to worry about paying for expensive repairs to the issues. Because SERVPRO is thorough in every step of its work, you can rest assured that the insurance company will have all the information it needs to do its part in a timely manner.

Don’t risk hiring the wrong storm restoration group. Get in touch with SERVPRO right away so you’ll get the best disaster response and the fastest response from your insurance agent.

Tenant and Owner Responsibilities After a Fire

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you are a renter or a landlord who's suffered a commercial fire, apartment fire or house fire, you will need to contact your insurance compan.

Whether you've experienced an apartment fire, commercial fire or a fire at a rented home in Oklahoma City, OK, the effects can be devastating to both the tenant and the landlord. It may not be clear who is responsible when it comes to the fire damage. Depending on the circumstances, liability can be divided up very differently. Let's look at some particulars.

Landlord Responsibilities

Generally, the landlord is responsible for hiring the restoration company to repair structural damage after a business, house or apartment fire. Damage may include:

• Structural damage to:
o Walls
o Floors
o Carpeting
o Pool Houses
o Sheds
• Damage to fixtures and appliances:
o Cabinets
o Countertops
o Plumbing
o Electrical wiring
o Supplied appliances such as dishwashers and refrigerators

Tenant Responsibilities

In most cases, the tenant is responsible for any damage done to his or her personal property. The tenant will have to go to his or her insurance company to recover the loss of items such as:

• Clothing
• Furniture
• Computers
• TVs
• Tenant-owned appliances
• Video game consoles
• Musical instruments

Liability Claims

Sometimes, there is a question of who is liable for the damage. If the landlord is proved to be responsible (for instance, due to negligence regarding the property's electrical wiring), he can be made to pay for damage to the renters' personal belongings, wages lost, costs related to finding another place to stay, and more. Conversely, if the landlord can prove that the renter was somehow negligent, the renter may be responsible for any costs related to repairing the property. If the landlord is unable to prove this, he will be liable for any structural repair, as it's the landlord's responsibility to see to it that the property is in a livable condition.

Be Prepared

Whether you are a renter or a landlord who's suffered a commercial fire, apartment fire or house fire, you will need to make sure that you have immediately contacted your insurance company, have made a detailed list of any property that's been damaged and taken pictures of any damage to the structure and property, as well as any evidence of negligence. That way you will be prepared for any subsequent questions from the insurance company, and ensure that you're only incurring cost for the fire damage that you're actually responsible for.

A Quick Overview of the Mold Remediation Process

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City when dealing with severe mold.

If you’re new to the presence of black mold growth in your Oklahoma City, OK, commercial property, the prospect of how to handle it can seem rather perplexing. Thankfully, since mold growth is such an everyday occurrence for property owners, there’s plenty of information available to give you the answers you need. If you’re curious about how to address mold cleanup and how to go about the mold remediation process in general, here is a quick rundown of how it all works and when to call in professionals for help.

First Things First: When Dealing With Severe Mold, Always Call in Professionals

While there’s still a debate over the health effects of black mold amongst experts in the field, it’s currently still safer than not to contact a highly-experienced team of mold remediation specialists to inspect your property and properly eliminate any traces of mold. Containment of the affected area is the first step in mold cleanup, preventing the spread of growth and contamination elsewhere in the building. While professionals are installing tarps and covering windows and doorways, they’ll be wearing appropriate attire designed to keep them personally protected from the effects of direct contact with the mold.

Mold Removal Consists of Various Steps

Once the affected areas have been contained, the mold removal process will begin with tearing out any building materials that show mold growth or have been in contact with the fungus in any way that can’t be restored. This ensures that any traces of the contamination are eradicated. Meanwhile, the use of proper chemicals for rightful cleaning and maintenance of the area is carried out, leading to the ultimate step of disinfection of the space. Once the area has been treated as needed, professionals can give you the go ahead when the entire process is completed and you can safely return inside the building.

If you’re stumbling blindly into a black mold situation as a commercial property owner in OKC, hiring trained and experienced technicians is a great first step in addressing mold removal.

Water Heater Cleanup Tips for Homeowners

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

If your water heater is leaking, your home can quickly become flooded

A leaking water heater can cause devastating damage to homes in Edmond, OK, and many homeowners are unsure what to do when their water heater breaks. There are several useful steps homeowners can take if their water heaters fail.

Turn Off the Water Immediately

If your water heater is leaking, your home can quickly become flooded. In order to stop the flow of water into your home and decrease the likelihood of major damage, it’s often useful to turn off the main water supply to your home as quickly as possible. Knowing where your home’s shutoff valve is located before your water heater begins to leak can help you to react in a timely manner.

Shut Off Your Home’s Power

Although your first thought may not be to turn off the power in your home when you have a leaking water heater, leaving the power on with a broken water heater could be hazardous. Shutting off the power can help to minimize the risk of electrical items becoming damaged. Since wet electrical wiring can cause fires, turning off the power can also help to decrease the risk of a fire occurring in your home.

Make a Claim if Necessary and Call for Help

Depending on the amount of damage that your failed water heater has caused, you may need to make a claim to your insurance company. Once you have made a claim, it’s often also helpful to contact water damage restoration professionals. Many items in your home are susceptible to water damage, and professionals can help to mitigate the damage and can also assist in the restoration process.

Knowing how to respond to a leaking water heater can help to protect your home from major damage. Turning off the water, shutting off your home’s power and making an insurance claim and contacting professionals can make the cleanup process easier for homeowners.

Renter’s Insurance and Mold Damage: 3 Facts

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage due to a leak in an Oklahoma City home

Learning the Facts of How Mold Can Affect Your Rental Space

Having rental insurance in Oklahoma City, OK, can protect your belongings against sudden damage or theft. However, there are some circumstances that may leave you without the coverage you need to recover, such as problems resulting from mold growth. Learning the facts about how fungi might affect your rented space and whether you are safeguarded against the damage it does can be important for protecting your finances and for your peace of mind while renting a property.

1. Most Internal Mold Causes Are Covered

One of the most important factors when it comes to what type of mold damage renter’s insurance covers is what caused the issue. For example, a flood caused by a burst kitchen pipe or a malfunctioning HVAC unit that in turn causes mold will likely be covered by your rental insurance. It is important to know, however, that protection against natural or sewer floods may require you to buy an additional policy to be covered completely.

2. Negligent Acts May Void Coverage

If it is found that you caused mold problems in your apartment or rented home, any coverage you might have been entitled to could be voided. This may include fridge mold, the improper cleanup of small floods that damage your belongings and poor housekeeping habits. Learning a few common causes of mold and how to prevent it can protect you from losing coverage.

3. Landlord Liability Can Be Limited

If a landlord fails to maintain your building and a leak or a flood damages your belongings, you might want to review your lease before you seek compensation, as many property owners have you sign away liability when you rent from them. Your landlord might have a mold removal and restoration service come in to resolve the issue, but depending on your lease, you might have to pay for damaged items out of pocket.

Buying rental insurance for any property you lease in Oklahoma City, OK, can protect you from a variety of different problems, including mold growth. Learning the facts about coverage may help you feel prepared in the face of flooding, fires and other events that cause fungi to grow.

How To Keep Excess Moisture Out of Your Building

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial storm damage in Oklahoma City, OK

How To Keep Excess Moisture Out of Your Building

As a business owner in Oklahoma City, OK, you want to make sure your building is safe, clean and useful. Your building's interiors are not designed to withstand a lot of extra moisture, so the key to protecting them is keeping the moisture out. You can avoid most rain damage, even in the strongest storm season, by doing everything you can to make sure your roof and exterior walls resist leaks.

How Leaks Happen

For storm damage to occur, three conditions have to exist:

• Cracks or openings in wall or roof
  
• Water present near the cracks
  
• Pressure forcing water into cracks
  
  

If you have weak spots in your roof, along the joints of your walls or near your windows, it is likely that water will get into your building and cause some damage. If it goes undetected, an initially small leak can develop into flood damage or black mold growth that has to be remediated by mold mitigation specialists.

How To Prevent Leaks

You can prevent rain damage by having a strong building envelope. Start by inspecting your building and making note of its current state of protection. Look for any openings where water could get in, such as cracks in the plaster, worn flashing or badly installed joints. It's important to identify problem areas so that you can get the necessary repairs done.

Once you know where flood cleanup is likely to be necessary should heavy rainfall occur, you know exactly where to make reinforcements. Consider adding an extra layer of protection on your roof. Check your drainage system to make sure water flows directly into it and away from your building. If possible, recess your windows.

Excess moisture can cause a lot of problems in your building, especially if it is hidden from plain sight. While a little storm cleanup may be necessary with vicious storms, you can prevent most rain damage by upgrading your building's protection.

The Top 3 Commercial Plumbing Problems

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Pipes can break or leak for several reasons.

Many commercial buildings have similar plumbing problems. While dripping faucets or toilets that constantly run may only raise water bills, other issues can result in significant usage spikes or water damage. Find out more about the three most common plumbing problems and ways that building owners or managers can prevent an incident such as a clogged toilet from becoming expensive or causing extensive damage.

1. Broken or Leaky Pipes

Pipes can break or leak for several reasons. Some materials may be prone to corrode or wear out over time. Supply lines that are exposed to below-freezing temperatures can also develop frozen blockages that cause pressure to build until a pipe bursts.

2. Clogged Drains

The risk of clogs varies depending on the condition of a sewer line, the primary use of a building and the number of occupants. A sewer line that is old and penetrated by tree roots is more likely to become blocked. Restaurants where large amounts of cooking fats or grease end up in the drain are more prone to sewer backups. As the number of occupants of a building goes up, so does the likelihood that non-flushable materials will result in a clogged toilet.

3. Water Wastage

Some buildings have many bathroom facilities. This can make it harder to monitor the condition of each and every faucet and toilet. Even equipment designed to promote functionality, such as a flushometer, can end up resulting in wastage. The water wasted by dripping faucets or broken or inefficient toilets throughout a structure can add up to a significantly higher water bill.

If any of these issues are currently affecting a commercial building in Oklahoma City, OK the property owner or manager should contact a plumber. If a leak or flooding results from a broken pipe or clogged toilet, mitigation and restoration specialists can eliminate primary damage and prevent secondary damage.

6 Steps for Recovery From Mold

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

Black mold can start to grow in your commercial building within 24 hours of the onset of water damage.

Black mold can start to grow in your commercial building in Oklahoma City, OK within 24 hours of the onset of water damage. While you may not be able to avoid mold altogether, you can keep it from spreading by calling mold mitigation experts as soon as you suspect it's a problem. Here are the six steps they can take to rid your building of fungus growth.

1. Containment

Technicians start by setting up a seal around the perimeter of the infestation. This keeps spores from detaching and flowing into other areas of the building while cleanup is in process.

2. Protection

Another way experts keep from spreading spores while protecting themselves during mold cleanup is by wearing personal protective equipment. They cover themselves from head to toe with goggles, face masks with filtered respirators, protective suits, gloves and boots.

3. Removal

All material infested with black mold must be removed from the building. Because mold tends to branch down into porous surfaces, many items will need to be replaced rather than cleaned.

4. Disinfection

The surfaces that can be cleaned are disinfected. Some surfaces can be cleaned with a detergent while others may require treatments such as ultraviolet radiation.

5. Drying

Mold is attracted to moisture. You can't get rid of the mold spores in your building, but you can find a way to keep it from settling in one spot. Anything remaining that still holds excess moisture must be dried to keep mold growth from returning.

6. Restoration

To return your building to its original state, everything that was torn out or thrown away during mold remediation must be replaced. Restoration experts can replace walls, ceilings and floor and make them look as good as new.

You may not catch water damage early enough to keep black mold from growing. If you catch it early, however, the process for mitigating the mold problem should be pretty straightforward.

Always Here to Help

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is the premier choice when it comes to fire, water and mold restoration. Our team is quick to respond and help mitigate any losses you might experience. Our team takes great pride in making sure each job is completed to your expectations and well documented along the way. 

What to do if you have a water loss in Oklahoma City, OK.

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

For water loss emergencies in Oklahoma City call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City for immediate help.

If you have a water loss in Oklahoma City, it is critical to get SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City on site immediately. Our team of qualified technicians is here to help around the clock. 

The first step on any water job is to start emergency services. This can include extracting the water from the facility. SERVPRO uses both truck mount and portable extractors to help remove all standing water. After the water is removed, SERVPRO can begin removing damaged materials and start the drying process. The second step is to begin the drying process. This can include placing air moreover and dehumidifiers throughout the property. Each day a certified technician will monitor the drying process to make sure your home or business is progressing. The last step, once the structure is dry, is to remove all of the equipment and repair any of the damaged materials. Once the property is restored, your home will be back to preloss condition. It is important to make sure any restoration company documents each step of the process, so you have accurate and update to records for your insurance company. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our office any time day or night. 

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City here to help if you suspect mold in your home or business

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

Suspected mold in home needing remediation by SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City.

What to do if you suspect mold in your house

Mold - the very thought can put terror into the eyes of a homeowner. After all, mold in your home can make you and your family sick. If nothing else, it looks disgusting. But it can also weaken your walls, ceilings and floor. And if you try to sell a house known to have mold, you might as well put a sign on your front lawn that reads: "Not For Sale."

So if you think you have mold, and plenty of houses do what should you do?

Test for mold. That's probably the last thing you or any homeowner wants to hear because mold testing can be expensive, and there are plenty of horror stories out there.  The average cost to test for mold – not to remove, just to test – is $834, according to HomeAdvisor.com. If that price makes you ill, you could buy a mold testing home kit, which generally runs anywhere from $10 to $50. That said, molding test kits have a reputation for being unreliable.

If you do have mold. Don't panic yet. This may not be a major problem. Call SERVPRO to have it removed by licensed professionals.

A lot of keeping mold away comes down to basic maintenance. Here are some things you can do around your house:

• Caulk around the water fixtures in your kitchen and bathrooms.
• Clean out the gutters. Standing water in your gutters due to clogs can lead to water leaking into the eaves, and thus in exterior walls.
• Caulk around your windows to keep out heavy rain.
• Take care of any roof leaks as soon as they are detected.
• Do you have a crawl space under the home? If you do, check under it to make sure there's no water accumulating and standing there.

For more information on mold removal call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City today!

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City offers latest in odor fighting technology

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Hydroxyl Generator working on strong odors

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City now introduces a new tool for odor destruction. One of the most annoying things is an unpleasant odor be it at your home, office or shop. SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City understands the frustration you go through trying to get rid of the odor and thus introduces a new tool that will make sure the odor is gone for good.

With the use of a hydroxyl generator you are assured that the odor will be gone by the time we are through. In the past deodorization was done using masking agents, filters and other ineffective methods. Now with the latest technology we assure our customers perfection by using a hydroxyl generator. The generator is a new technology that beats all the other methods used in the past. The generator is able to:

• Cleans all air and all spaces in a contained room
• Produce atmospheric hydroxyls that are strong enough to neutralize bacteria and viruses
• Hydroxyls can penetrate into porous materials, fabrics and anywhere else as needed

However strong the odor is the hydroxyl generator will be able to kill it. It produces “superior hydroxyl” molecules that eliminate bacteria, mildew, mold, noxious gases, odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in indoor environments. These molecules can penetrate to the furthest edge of the house restoring its original scent.

For more information on odor removal call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City today!

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City offers Air Duct and HVAC cleaning just in time for Spring

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Why clean your Air Ducts? Because they get dirty!

In addition to the normal accumulation of dust and dirt found in all homes, there are several other factors that contribute to and increase the need for regular Air Duct and HVAC system cleaning:

• pets
• allergies or asthma
• cigarette or cigar smoke
• water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
• home renovation or remodeling projects

Some people are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers as well as young children and the elderly tend to be more susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.

Through normal occupation in a home, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants such as dander, dust, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this re-circulation causes a build-up of contaminants in the duct work.

While dirty ducts don’t necessarily mean unhealthy air in your home, school or workplace, they may be contributing to larger health issues or harboring contaminants that could cause serious problems for people with respiratory health conditions, autoimmune disorders or some environmental allergies.

For more information on air duct cleaning call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City today!

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City offers Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Spring is right around the corner which is when homeowners typically begin to make a list of spring-cleaning chores to prepare for the warmer weather ahead. This year remediation specialists at SERVPRO suggest including heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) duct maintenance on your to-do list.
Air duct cleaning can help reduce costs for both heating and cooling as well as protect the health of your family members and employees. Air duct cleaning removes bacteria, dust and mold to ensure greater air quality. This prevents inhaling unwanted contaminants which can cause allergies and other respiratory illnesses, by having a professional cleaning from us.
The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:
- Helps to restore peak energy efficiency
- May help eliminate offensive odors
- Helps reduce the potential for mod growth

For more information on air duct cleaning call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City today!

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City has you covered during flu season

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Flu season is upon us, and SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is here to make sure your schools and businesses are clean and able to stay up and running.  We offer disinfecting and wipe downs of schools and businesses.  SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City has all the necessary and safe materials to use to safely and effectively rid surfaces of flu and other viruses. 

One product we use is called Benefect.  Benefect is the only authentically botanical disinfectant available, making it a sustainable option for cleaning and disinfecting. Benefect is a plant-based cleaner that uses the powerful oil of the thyme plant.  Since it is a plant-based cleaner, it ensures the safety of the product for use around children and pets.  

Call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City if the flu stops your schools or businesses in its tracks, and let us get you up and running again! 

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City offers cooking safety tips

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

November is here and with it comes some of our favorite things. We hear at SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City love the smell of pumpkin spice, leaves changing, warm fires and lots of turkey. November brings in the start of the holiday season and with that comes lots of cooking and time spent in the kitchen. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by the day before Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. Fire departments responded to an estimated 1,760 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving alone. Below are some easy steps everyone should follow to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season.

The NFPA recommends the following safety tips:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City responds to category 3 loss

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City crew members pose with the homeowners' prized bull.

Our team responded to a category 3 loss on a Saturday afternoon. We responded after other restoration companies had declined the work. Our competition told the homeowners to call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City. Upon arrival, we were notified that one of the home owners has severe health complications.  We acted quickly to secure them a safe place to relocate to, and began work immediately.  Our team worked long hours into the early morning to get a great start on the job. It was a large job that was handled quickly and efficiently thanks to a hard working team.  Our customer was so happy with our work she asked us to take a picture with her prized bull. SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City truly is "faster to any size disaster!"

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City Gives Back to Oklahoma City

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City Owner Nicholas Hickman volunteers as Cub Scouts Den Master at Westminster Presbyterian Church.

SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City is proud to be an active member in Oklahoma City's civic community. We love working with local nonprofits and metropolitan organizations. Whenever possible we try and donate our time and/or resources to better Oklahoma City. During the past year we have volunteered and assisted with groups such as the Northwest Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Boy Scouts of America, churches, schools and neighborhood associations. In addition, SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City has donated time and resources to provide continuing education for real estate and insurance professionals. We have proudly sponsored lunches for area churches and exhibited how we be of service to their facilities. Please contact us to see how SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City can be of service to your organization.