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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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. 

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

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 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.